What is the Nagarjuna Day Hike?

The Nagarjuna Day Hike is a short trek to Jamacho Hill inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, located on the northwestern edge of Kathmandu. It’s famous for its hilltop monastery, panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, and glimpses of the Himalayas.

How long does the hike take?

The hike to Jamacho Viewpoint takes about 2–3 hours uphill and 1.5–2 hours downhill. The entire trip, including breaks, usually lasts 4–5 hours.

What is the best time for the hike?

Autumn (Sept–Nov) and spring (Mar–May) offer the best weather with clear skies. Winter is also pleasant, while monsoon season can be slippery due to rain.

How difficult is the hike?

It’s a moderate hike with steep uphill sections, suitable for people with average fitness. Beginners can complete it at a slow pace.

What can I see at the top?

From Jamacho Hill, you can enjoy views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu ranges on clear days, as well as a 360° view of the Kathmandu Valley. You’ll also find Jamacho Monastery surrounded by prayer flags.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes. Since it’s inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, entrance fees are about NPR 1,000 for foreigners, NPR 600 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepali citizens (subject to change).

The trail is straightforward, but hiring a local guide can enrich the experience with insights into local culture, wildlife, and Buddhist traditions.

Wear comfortable hiking shoes, carry water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket. Trekking poles can help with the uphill climb.

Is food available on the trail?

There are no tea houses or shops inside the hiking route, so bring your own food and drinks.

Can the hike be combined with other activities?

Yes. You can combine it with a visit to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), which is nearby, or explore the outskirts of Kathmandu for a half-day cultural tour.

Nagarjuna Day Hike – A Tranquil Forest Escape Near Kathmandu

Tour Duration

01 Day

Total People

Min. 2 pax

Activities

Hiking

Best Seasons

Except Monsoon

Elevation

2,128 m

OVERVIEW
ITINERARY
COST DETAILS
GALLERY

OVERVIEW

The Nagarjuna Day Hike is one of the most scenic and accessible day hikes around Kathmandu, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without straying too far from the city. Located northwest of the capital, Nagarjun Hilee (also known as Jamacho ) lies within Nagarjun Shivapuri National Park, a protected area rich in natural beauty, spirituality, and historical importance.

What to Expect on the Nagarjuna Day Hike

The Nagarjuna day hike trail is manageable for hikers of all fitness levels because it is only a short 3-4-hour walk. There are several rest areas for hikers to pause and enjoy the scenery along the well-marked track. Once we started walking, we traversed through deep woodlands populated with oak, bamboo, rhododendron, pine, and several common flora.

If the weather is in a good mood, then you will witness the stunning view of Kathmandu. Also, you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and the Everest range.

This Nagarjuna Hill has a religious significance too. There is a Buddhist monastery with a statue of Lord Buddha and Arya Nagarjuna. If you are on a short trip and not planning to go for a long trek like the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, etc., then this one-day hike to Nagarjuna is the perfect day hike around Kathmandu to enjoy.

Why Choose This Hike?

Perfect for short-stay visitors
No need for special trekking permits
Great for birdwatching and peaceful forest walks
Ideal for Photography and panoramic landscape views
A fantastic alternative to multi-day treks like
Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit

Kathmandu Day Trips company provides you with a one-day trip package with an interesting location, schedule, and trip pricing information. Additionally, Kathmandu Day Trips company creates custom itineraries based on your comfort. For a fantastic recollection, Kathmandu Day Trips company is eager to lead you on the well-known and breathtaking one-day hike around Kathmandu.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Panoramic view of Kathmandu City
Get to see wild animals like Himalayan Black bears, jungle cats, etc., if you are lucky.
Witness the breathtaking view of the massif Himalayas like Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Everest range.
Visit Jamacho Monastery at the top of the hill

ITINERARY

Day 01: Drive to Phulbari Gate, Hike to Nagarjuna Hill (2,128m), and return to Kathmandu
Drive to Phulbari Gate – 30 mins.

You will have an early breakfast and our guide will pick you up from the hotel and drive to Phulbari Gate, the only way to Nagarjuna Hill.

Hike to Nagarjun Hill (2128m)

Once we enter the Phulbari gate, we enter the National Park Area. Along with a marked and stone paved trail, we will walk through the deep forest where we can see the oak, bamboo, rhododendron, pine, etc. If we get lucky then we may witness the Himalayan Black Bears, jungle cats, etc.

After 2hrs. of the walk, we will reach the top of Nagarjun Hill from where we can witness the breathtaking view of the massif Himalayas. We also can see the panoramic view of Kathmandu city. We will enjoy our time there, capture some photos, and enjoy nature. We will visit the Jamacho Gumba and explore the Tibetan culture.

And then we will descend to the Phulbari gate.

Drive back to the hotel

We will drive back to your hotel from Phulbari Gate.

In the evening, you can stroll around the places in Kathmandu like Thamel, Durbarmarg, etc.

COST DETAILS

Included

Pick up and drop.
Hiking guide with good knowledge of the location and English language.
All permits and National Park fees.
Meal, either packed or at a restaurant.

Excluded

Nepal visa fee and international flight
Extra drinks; alcoholic and non-alcoholic
Personal expenses such as phone bill, chocolate, bakery items, and other
Tips to guide and porters

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