24 hours customer service +9779849693351

Nagarjun hike

Nagarjun hike

Sight Seeing Tour
Langtang himalayan views from Nagarjun top
Day Hike Nagarjun Hill
Day Hike Nagarjun Hill
Day Hike Nagarjun Hill
Ganesh himal view from Nagarjun
himal ghale on the top of nagarjun hill

Trip Facts

Duration : 1 Days Max-Altitude : 2095 Program Type : day hike Best Season : April- May, Jun, and Sep-Oct-Nov-Dec Per Day Walking : 5 Trek Grade : Grade 2:

These treks are suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. They are a combination of some longer and shorter walks and hill-walking experience is desirable. The duration is usually from 10 to 15 days. Following the up and down terrain of Nepal and walking to higher elevations contrasts these treks to those in the easy classification. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular close-up views of glaciers and of the high Himalayas. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. There may be up to 6 hours a day on the trail and the elevation rises and falls from 800m/ 2624ft to 4000m/13210ft above sea level.

100%

500 Reviews

Start From

All price inclusive
100 $ 80
USD per person

Group Price

No. of Persons Price per Person
1 Pax $100
2 Paxes $80
3-4 Paxes $75
5-6 Paxes $60
7-10 Paxes $55
11-15 Paxes $50
16+Paxes $50

Number of Travellers

Overview

Day Hike Near Kathmandu City – Nagarjun Hike

The Nagarjun hike is situated in Nagarjun National Park, northwest of Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. This popular trail provides stunning views of Kathmandu Valley and its mountains, as well as diverse plant and animal species thriving in the park. The top of Nagarjun Hike (Jamacho Hill) offers a peaceful and scenic viewpoint with religious and cultural significance. Nagarjuna Peak stands at 2,130 meters (6,981 feet) and is located within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, just a few kilometers northwest of Kathmandu. The Nagarjuna Peak offers 360-degree views of the Kathmandu Valley, including landmarks like Swayambhunath Stupa, Dharahara (Bhimsen Tower), and Dhulikhel. Many prayer flags are hung with the stupa and the view tower, adding a spiritual touch.
Moreover, the Nagarjuna Peak offer welcoming environment with the facility of small tea shop for tea and snacks with the enjoyable view point. They also have bottled water if needed and some locally grown fruits. The Nagarjun hike is entirely in the forest so trekkers don’t have to worry too much about sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, etc. But would recommend a good bug repellent as there are a lot of gnats flying around our faces. This gnats does not harm or not have any infection but creates disturbance during hiking hour.

Hiking Experience

The journey from Thamel to Phulbari Gate takes just 15 minutes by car. The Nagarjun hike is relatively short, typically taking 3-4 hours to complete, making it suitable for hikers of all fitness levels. The trail is well-marked, featuring several rest stops where hikers can pause to admire the scenic vistas. The trail winds through dense forests with oak, bamboo, rhododendron, pine, and diverse flora. You might see wild boars and colorful prayer flags along the path, creating a picturesque setting in Shivapuri National Park. The area teems with wildlife like wild boar, deer, tigers, monkeys, and various bird species, enhancing the hiking experience with natural biodiversity glimpses.

The initial ascent involves steep trails marked with stairs, leading to an open ground about 30 minutes into the Nagarjun hike. The trail then eases, offering a more gradual climb amidst the cooling forest ambiance, where the summit of Jamacho becomes visible from the first view point of the valley. This hike is much more fruitful for trekkers those who are in good physical shape, and those who want a break from the city and the chance to breathe fresh air. This hike also test the stamina for those who want to train for an upcoming trek like Ghorepani trek, Everest base camp trek, and Pikey peak trek.

Attractions in Nagarjuna National Park

In addition to the hiking trail, Nagarjun hill offers other attractions, including Nagarjun Palace, a historical site that once served as a royal palace. Situated near Shivapuri National Park, the area also provides additional trekking opportunities. The Nagarjun hike stands out among Kathmandu Valley’s various hiking destinations due to its popularity and accessibility. It’s just a short drive from Thamel to Phulbari Gate, followed by an ascent to the summit. For travelers seeking a quick nature escape near Kathmandu, the Nagarjun hike stands out. On clear days, it offers panoramic views of Kathmandu city and the majestic Langtang Himalayan range, including Annapurna ranges.

History and Culture

They renamed Jamacho Hill to Nagarjun Hill after Sadhu Nagarjuna, an Indian Baba who meditated there for five years. Nagarjuna, a revered Indian Buddhist philosopher of the 2nd century CE, propagated the doctrine of emptiness (shunyata) and founded the Madhyamika (“Middle Way”) school of Mahayana Buddhism. Nagarjun Hill remains an excellent spot for meditation, offering a serene environment amidst Kathmandu’s bustle. The hike is immensely popular among Nepalese hikers, student groups, families, and college students, with Buddhist pilgrims visiting on full moon days for worship. Moreover, many Buddhist come here to pray or meditate before they die.

Jamacho Jatra

Jamacho Jatra is a ritualistic festival that is enjoyed in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley and is more closely identified with Jamacho Gumba, a holy place that is found on top of Jamacho hill in Shivapuri Naagarjun National Park. It is a festivel that is of great religious and cultural significance to both Buddhist and local Newars.

The festival has legendary origins that the Buddha once meditated at the site where Jamacho Gumba now stands, rendering it a revered pilgrimage destination. During Jamacho Jatra, devotees undertake a challenging hike through the dense forests of the national park to reach the hill’s summit, where the monastery is situated. This pilgrimage symbolizes a journey towards spiritual enlightenment and is an expression of devotion and reverence.​ During Jamacho Jatra, devotees undertake a challenging hike through the dense forests of the national park to reach the hill’s summit, where the monastery is situated. This pilgrimage symbolizes a journey towards spiritual enlightenment and is an expression of devotion and reverence.​

Jamacho Jatra typically occurs during the full moon day of the month of Chaula (April).  It coincides with other local festivals like Balaju Purnima too. It is a time for lots of religious practices, like ritual and procession that tell us volumes about this places rich heritage.

Best time to visit the Nagarjun Hike (Jamacho hill)

The best time to hike Nagarjun hike (Jamacho hill) is any day except Saturday. On Saturdays, the trail Nagarjun hike becomes overcrowded as it is the only weekend day for Nepalese. Thousands of people often visit the park, creating noise and disturbance for trekkers. Choosing any other day offers a quieter, more peaceful experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the serenity of this one-day hike.

You can enjoy this hike year-round, but in June and July, check the weather forecast to avoid all-day rain. For the best experience, start your hike between 7 AM and 10 AM to avoid the midday heat, enjoy the clearest views, and spot birds and animals along the trail.

What does the Nagarjun hike include?

The Nagarjun hike includes:

  • Transportation: Private vehicle transfers to and from the trailhead.

  • Permits: Entry fees for Nagarjun hike.

  • Guide Service: An experienced, government-licensed trekking guide and porters for bags.

  • Snacks and Water: Light refreshments to keep you energized like a packed lunch, mineral water for drinking etc.

  • Nature Experience: Opportunities to spot wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
  • After the Kathmandu sightseeing, this hike poses an incredible journey for refreshment from a busy city for a day.

Note optional hike close to Kathmandu are (Shivapuri National Park) (Nagarkot Sunrise view) (Champa Devi Hike).

If you want to capture more wildlife, visit Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s first national park. It hosts over 50 mammal species, more than 525 bird species, and 55 types of amphibians and reptiles. Closer to Kathmandu, you can explore Langtang National Park and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park for additional wildlife experiences.

Detail Itinerary

  1. Start Early:
    • Begin your day early to make the most of the cool morning weather and have ample time for the hike.
  2. Travel to Nagarjun:
    • Head to the trailhead, which is approximately 12 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the starting point.
  3. Arrival at Trailhead:
    • Arrive at the trailhead, and make sure you have all the essentials, including water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable hiking shoes.

Hiking:

  1. Start the Hike:
    • Begin your hike towards Nagarjun. The trail is well-marked, and you'll be surrounded by lush greenery.
  2. Scenic Views:
    • Enjoy the scenic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding hills as you ascend. Nagarjun offers breathtaking panoramic views.
  3. Explore Nature:
    • Take some time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna along the trail. Nagarjun is part of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, and you might encounter various bird species and other wildlife.

Midday:

  1. Lunch Break:
    • Carry a packed lunch or snacks to enjoy at a scenic spot along the trail. There might be designated resting areas where you can relax and refuel.

Afternoon:

  1. Reach the Summit:
    • Continue your hike towards the summit of Nagarjun. The summit offers spectacular views of the Himalayan range on clear days.
  2. Explore the Area:
    • Once at the top, take some time to explore the area, enjoy the serenity, and take photos to capture the breathtaking landscapes.

Late Afternoon:

  1. Descent:
    • Start your descent back to the trailhead. Be mindful of the time, as you wouldn't want to hike down in the dark.

Evening:

  1. Return to Kathmandu:
    • Arrive back at the trailhead and arrange transportation back to Kathmandu. Reflect on your day and the beautiful views you experienced.

Cost Included

  • Transportation
  • guide
  • entrance permit
  • pack lunch

Cost Excluded

tips for guide and porter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a restaurant or teahouse at Nagarjun Hike? There are no restaurants at Nagarjun Hike due to restrictions on settlement within the National Park. However, there is a tea shop available. Packed lunches are provided by your guide and assistant.

Enquiry


Sign Up for free newsletter
Follow Us