Overview
Nagarjun is the nearest hill site of Kathmandu Valley covered by thick forest with historical as well as natural setting. It is a part of Shivapuri National Park located north-west of Kathmandu and takes 15 minutes by car from the city center. You can start your hike from the Gate of Nagarjun near Balaju Bypass.
Nagarjun is the nearest hill site of Kathmandu Valley covered by thick forest with historical as well as natural setting. It is a part of Shivapuri National Park located north-west of Kathmandu and takes 15 minutes by car from the city center. You can start your hike from the Gate of Nagarjun near Balaju Bypass.
It is one of the most popular, short and easy one day hiking near Kathmandu. Nagarjun hill, also described in literature as Vindya Mountain, which is the most popular pilgrimage sites for Hindus as well as Buddhist. This mountain got its name as Nagarjuna because the sage Nagarjuna had resided in a cave in this place to meditate. Beside the cave of Nagarjuna, there is a cave of another Buddha, the Mahasiddhas. Here one can feel peace state of mind with natural setting and it’s the best place to meditate. Buddha stupas, ancient caves and finally Jamacho view point (2128m) are the main points of attractions.
Jamacho view point is famous for its setting from where spectacular Himalayan scenery can captured in mind and camera as well. Incredible Himalayan scene of Jugal, Ganesh Himal with Langtang region can be viewed from here. Further from the Top of Nagarjun we can see the view of Kathmandu valley, Swyambhu hill with famous two eyes of Buddha, Nuwakot with Buddhist shrines and monasteries in their setting.
The locals of this place also claim that Maha Manjurshree who is supposed to be the founder of Kathmandu valley saw Kathmandu valley as a lake from this point. Buddha Jayanti and Jamacho Jatra is observed with special celebration.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Nature Trail’s office
0800 – Gather all groups in front of Nature Trail’s office
0815 – Depart from office to hiking starting point approx. 15 min drive which is just 5 kms North West of Kathmandu
0830 – Tea break, fill up water bottle or last minute shopping for the hike
0845 – Pay Shivapuri National Park conservation fee at the Army check post and start your hike to Nagarjuna top,
11:30 – The hike to the summit is quite steep through the jungle. Reach top of Nagarjuna and have a magnificent views of Annapurna Himalayan Range, Manaslu Himalayan Range and Langtang Himalayan Range. The terrace of the Buddhist gompa also provides a good view of the southern, western and eastern parts of the valley.
Lunch break for one hour (It is advisable to bring your own water bottle for this trail as there is no source of water during this hike)
12:30- After enjoying leisurely lunch with good views of the Mountain View, we descend back through the same route as we had followed for going upwards
14:30– Meet your vehicle outside the Army check post and drive back to Kathmandu and drop all the group member in front of Nature Trail’s office.