Nagarjuna Hill Hike Introduction

Nagarjuna Hill Hike: A Refreshing Day Adventure Near Kathmandu

Hiking Nagarjuna Hill is one of the best short day hikes in the Kathmandu Valley, when you want to escape the city but not too far. Nagarjuna Hill is conveniently only 8 kilometers west of Thamel and is a serene hill at 2,128 meters above sea level with an amazing combination of nature and spirituality, and stunning views of the Himalayan range.

Why Hike Nagarjuna Hill?

Nagarjuna Hill, aka Jamacho, is an isolated forested area well-known for its peacefulness and stunning beauty. The hiking trail takes you through tall trees and thick forests where birds chirp, butterflies dance, and many plants grow vibrantly. Along the hike, you will also see panoramic views of the Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and the Langtang mountain ranges.

At the top you will also find the Nagarjuna View Tower with really nice views of the Kathmandu Valley below.

Highlights of the Hike

Jamacho Gumba (Monastery)

Jamacho Gumba deserves a stop for the opportunity it brings to be in a calm Buddhist monastery atop one of the highest hills in the Kathmandu valley.  Even though Jamacho Gumba is not very large, it is an important site with meaning, carvings, prayer wheels, statues of Buddha, flags, etc. A pilgrimage or as a walking tour, many local hikers will come here to either pray, meditate, appreciate the stillness it offers, or the elements of spirituality, and connection to spirit that it provides.

Nagarjuna View Tower

The Nagarjuna View tower is the main structural highlight (aside from the summit of course) at the end of the trek. Once on top of the tower, you are greeted by 360 views of the valley with visibility to the surrounding Himalayan ranges including, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and possibly on clear days views of Manaslu. The Nagarjuna view tower is nice stop-rest point following the uphill trek, a spot for pictures and once again contemplation, and peacefulness in a very peaceful area.

Rani Ban (Queen’s Forest)

Rani Ban, or Queen’s Forest, is a heavily wooded area and relaxing forest park along the Nagarjuna hiking trail. Historically it acted as a retreat for Nepalese royalty and specifically the queens. Today it remains a peaceful retreat with beautiful nature and biological diversity. Within Rani Ban the peacefulness of nature is enhanced by the sounds of rustling leaves, passing birds, and wildlife that appear without notice at points, enhancing the hiker experience.

Ecological Diversity

Nagarjuna hill with its biological diversity, will make this hike not just scenic but also interesting ecologically. There are numerous species of plants and animals in the forest. Along the way native plants such as rhododendrons, pine and traditional medicine herbs there are many spices. With this diversity hikers can relate positively to nature and can see a thriving biological system just outside of the city.

Colorful Prayer Flags

Throughout your hike, especially in the monastery and view tower area, colorful prayer flags will appear in the air. These flags are a representation of peace, compassion and hope within Tibetan Buddhism. The prayer flags, combined with the quietness of the forest and Buddhist shrines and stupas, create a spiritual, calm atmosphere. For many guests, this allows them the chance to add a deeper meaning and mindfulness, in addition to the physical hike up hill.

Your Hiking Adventure Itinerary

You will set off on your hiking adventure with a short (10-15 mins). Drive from your hotel (in Thamel) to Balaju Fulbari Gate, the official entry point for the Nagarjuna Forest. After you arrive at Balaju Fulbari Gate, the hike will begin.

The trail takes you in a gradual ascent and follows stone steps and shaded walking trails lined with forest. You can occasionally look through trees to see if there is a short view of the Kathmandu skyline and monuments. This part of the journey usually takes about 2 hours to climb (at your own pace).

During the journey, you will see, and climb past the old summer palace that was a used by Nepali Royalty. You may also spot endangered species of birds, butterflies, and other local wildlife that are unique to this region.

Conclusion

When you arrive at the top, enjoy the Jamacho Monastery, spin some prayer wheels, and take in the chance to view the city and faraway peaks of the Himalayan mountains. Be sure to take photos of the calm before you start going down the same way you came.

Your hiking experience could not be better than with Happy Mountain Nepal. Our staff will keep you safe, comfortable, and suffering from happy and memorable moments. Happy Mountain Nepal staff will provide the understanding of the local environment and provide you with a memorable and safe experience for you hiking adventure. contact us today at Happy Mountain Nepal, on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.