Nagarjuna Day Hiking

shivapuri national park
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Nagarjuna Day Hiking
Nagarjuna Day Hiking
Nagarjuna Day Hiking
At a Glance
Duration6 Hours
Trip GradeModerate
i
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude2128 meters (6981.627 feet)
Group Size1-20 pax
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleHiking
Best TimeAugust to May

The Nagarjuna Day Hike offers a short, easy, and fulfilling day hiking experience in Kathmandu. For those seeking a break from the city to explore the peaceful surroundings of the jungle and hills, the Jamacho Peak hike is a perfect choice. This picturesque peak is situated within the Nagarjun Forest at the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and can be conquered in around 5 to 6 hours, covering a 10-kilometer round trip. With an elevation of 2128 meters (6981.627 feet), it offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and the sprawling Kathmandu Valley. The park spans 12 square kilometers, providing ample space to explore the rich biodiversity. Along this moderate-level hiking route, you'll be treated to a delightful display of flora and fauna. During the spring, Jamacho Peak becomes even more enchanting with the vibrant rhododendrons in full bloom. On the hilltop, you'll discover ancient monasteries that hold significant beliefs. According to local folklore, Manjushree, a revered deity, arrived from Tibet and performed a sacred ritual to release water from the vast Lake of the Kathmandu Valley. It is said that his act of throwing a sword at the Chobar hill created a passage for the water, ultimately shaping the present form of Kathmandu. 

Highlights:

  • Experience a delightful, effortless, and picturesque day trek to Nagarjuna Hill
  • Take a leisurely stroll from Phulbari Gate to Jamacho Peak
  • Discover the lush woodland throughout the hike
  • Cover a round-trip distance of 10 km, ascending and descending
  • Delight in the extraordinary plant and animal life
  • Behold the majestic snow-covered peak and breathtaking view of Kathmandu Valley
  • Pay a visit to the impressive monastery situated atop the hill
  • Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature
  • Capture stunning photographs of the surrounding landscapes
  • Indulge in a rejuvenating outdoor adventure 

Starting from your location, the Nagarjuna Hill hike will take you on a short drive to Phul Bari Gate at Balaju Bypass, situated at the base of Jamacho Peak. After paying the entrance fees, the hike will begin, leading you up a steep path to the hilltop. Along the way, there will be an army checkpoint about one kilometer into the journey where they will inspect goods and entrance permit papers, so ensure you have them with you. The hike covers a total distance of five kilometers, requiring approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete. The trail is predominantly uphill, with some flat and gradual sections. The route offers tranquility, surrounded by the sounds of nature and fresh air, as well as diverse flora and fauna. At the hill's summit, you can admire snow-capped peaks on clear days and enjoy a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. There is a Manjushree meditation point and a monastery to visit before retracing your steps back to Phulbari Gate and returning to the hotel, marking the end of the 5- to 6-hour hike.

Nagarjuna Hiking Tour Cost for 2024-2025 

The Nagarjuna hike is a popular choice for those who enjoy long and challenging treks, as well as peak climbing to warm up. Additionally, if you are in Kathmandu and wish to catch a glimpse of snow-capped peaks, including Everest and others, this is an affordable and convenient option. For a day away from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, Nagarjuna Hiking is an excellent choice. The cost of the hike varies depending on the size of the group. Below is detailed information regarding the cost of the Nagarjuna Day Hiking Package.

  • Solo Nagarjuna Hiking is priced at USD 80
  • 2 to 6 individuals USD 60 cost per person 
  • Groups of 7 to 9 people USD 50 per person
  • Groups of 10 to 20 is USD 30 per person
Itinerary

The Nagarjuna hiking trail's itinerary offers valuable insights into the expected experiences, timings, and essential information, providing you with a comprehensive understanding before you embark on your journey.

Tour PlanExpand All

Nagarjuna Hill is a popular hiking spot in Kathmandu, easily accessible after a short 20-minute drive from Thamel. The hike begins at Phulbari Gate and takes you through the beautiful Shivapuri National Park. Visitors must pay a National Park fee of Rs. 1000 for tourists and 100 rupees for Nepali citizens. The trail leads to Damacho Peak, passing through dense forests and steep stone stairs. After reaching the Army Camp, hikers must show their permits and belongings. The journey continues with gradual and steep sections, eventually leading to Damacho Monastery and the hilltop, offering stunning views of Kathmandu and the snow-capped peaks of Langtang, Manaslu, and Everest ranges. After enjoying the scenery, hikers can retrace their steps back to Phulbari Gate and take a taxi back to their hotel.

Max. Altitude: 2150m/7053.806ft
Cost Details
Included
  • Private transportation will be arranged to take you to Phul Bari Gate for the hiking excursion.
  • An experienced hiking and trekking guide will accompany you throughout the journey.
  • The national park entrance fees are included in the package.
  • Government tax and company fees are covered as part of the tour cost.
  • A packed lunch will be provided for you to enjoy during the hike.
  • At the end of the hiking trip, you will be brought back to your accommodation on a private tour.
  • Staff Travel insurance 
Excluded
  • Insurance for guests
  • Additional activities
  • Personal expenditures
  • Tips for staff members
Dates & Availability

Discover the wonders of the Kathmandu Valley through a variety of hiking and trekking activities. Among them, Nagarjuna Hill stands out as one of the closest and most easily accessible from Thamel, Kathmandu. We invite you to join our Nagarjuna Hiking tour, departing regularly, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan ranges. Traverse through lush forests teeming with birds and indulge in the serene tranquility of the area. Mark your calendars, as the following date has been fixed for your convenience.

Additional Info

The Distance and Duration of the Nagarjuna Day Hiking

Discover the wonders of Nagarjuna Hill, also known as Jamacho Hill, on a day hiking tour that promises an elevation of 2125m above sea level. The distance from the Phulbari Gate to the hilltop is a mere 5km, which typically takes around 3 hours to ascend. The descent, on the other hand, can be completed in just 2 hours or less, depending on your pace. In total, the tour lasts approximately 5 hours, and the round trip covers a distance of 10km.

Nagarjuna Hike Difficulty Level

The Nagrjuna hike is classified as moderate-level difficulty, requiring a good level of physical fitness. The trail consists mainly of ascending and descending stone steps, with an elevation gain of approximately 700 meters uphill. This hike is highly recommended for those seeking to prepare for high-altitude treks and peak climbing, as it provides an ideal opportunity for acclimatization.

Flora and Fauna of the Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park:

Shivapuri is situated in a region that experiences a blend of subtropical and temperate climates. The area boasts a diverse range of natural forest types, including pine, oak, and rhododendron, which vary depending on the altitude and aspect. The park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including Himalayan black bears, leopards, jungle cats, and rhesus monkeys. Additionally, it serves as a habitat for 177 bird species, with at least 9 of them being threatened species. The park also supports a population of 102 butterfly species, some of which are rare and endangered, as well as 129 species of mushrooms.

The Permits Fees For The Nagarjuna Hike

Nagarjuna Hill is situated within the Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park, which is a protected area. In order to gain access to the national park, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee based on their nationality. For foreigners, the entrance fee is set at 1000 Nepalese rupees per person per entry. SAARC country nationals are charged 600 Nepalese rupees per person per entry, while Nepali citizens are only required to pay 100 Nepalese rupees per person per entry.

Packing Lists for the Nagarjuna Day Hiking

To make the Nagarjuna hiking trip more enjoyable, it is important to have a well-prepared packing list. Include items such as a day bag, at least two liters of water, sunscreen, hiking boots, light clothing for walking, wind protection, snack bars, hiking poles, a cap, sunglasses, a camera, and other essentials.

Pick-up and drop-off service 

The Nagarjuna hiking tour starts and ends at your designated location. Once your booking is confirmed, you will be required to provide the location where our guide will pick you up before the trip. After the exploration, we will drop you off at your desired location in and around Thamel.

Best Seasons:

When planning your Nagarjuna one-day hiking tour, keep in mind that you have the freedom to schedule it at any point throughout the year. Be sure to pick a day that suits you best and set off on your day of exploration. For the most spectacular scenery, consider visiting during the Fall season (September to December) or the Spring season (February to May).

Feedback:

We highly value your feedback, which helps us improve our services for future trips. Your suggestions are significant in expanding our knowledge base. Additionally, your appreciation motivates us to remain responsible and dedicated to our continuous improvement efforts. We are grateful you joined us for a one-day hiking tour to Nagarjuna Hill with our company. Thank you for placing your trust in us and for the wonderful experience you had during the tour. If you require any other tours, treks, or hikes in Nepal, we would be delighted to have you join us again.