Tour Duration
1 day
Best time to go
Sep-Nov, Mar-May
Group Size
1-50
Max Altitude
2551m
Tour Grade
easy
Area
Kathmandu
Hours of Walking
1 hrs
Start point - End point
Kathmandu
Most tourists start early morning half in hope of beating the crowds, but mostly to get that mystical mountain scenery before the fog rolls in. A short ride along the city outskirts takes you to the cable railway end point. A 10-minute ride, smooth as silk, carries you over dense green woods and rolling hills, with glimpses of tiny villages way below. On days when the weather is fine, the vista is just breathtaking. White-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including Everest, Langtang, and Annapurna, rise in the distance like a piece of fiction.
At the top of Chandragiri Hill, at an altitude of 2,551 meters above the sea level, the first thing that welcomes you is the beautiful Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is more than a place of worship—it’s a sacred site steeped in Hindu mythology. Legend has it that this is where Sati Devi’s forehead fell after her tragic sacrifice, making it one of the revered Shakti Peethas. During Maha Shivaratri, the hilltop overflows with pilgrims who come to offer prayers and soak in the divine energy.
But Chandragiri is not just religious. History buffs will delight in the fact that this hill also played a crucial role in deciding Nepal’s destiny. It was from here that visionary ruler King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who dreamt of unifying Nepal, first caught sight of the Kathmandu Valley. Smitten by its loveliness and strategic position, he formulated his strategy for uniting the fragmented kingdoms a milestone in the nation’s history.
Modern-day Chandragiri has something for everyone. There’s an observation tower that offers a 360-degree view of the landscape, complete with information boards pointing out different peaks and landmarks. The fresh hilltop wind is perfect for drinking hot tea or coffee from one of the cafes. Local restaurants serve everything from dal Bhat to international comfort food, so you can recharge your batteries as you gawk.
It is a favorite among families too kids like playing in the open spaces surrounding it, and the children’s park nearby gives them something to play around. Nature lovers and photographers find the vibrant greenness of the place, the birds, and peaceful walking trails interesting. If you’re into hiking, there are pleasant marked forest trails for casual walkers and more serious trekkers.
Most tourists plan their descent in the late afternoon, but a few linger on, hoping to catch the golden light of sunset across the hills. The descent is one last moment to appreciate the view this time from a different angle, with the valley radiating softly.
If you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with relatives, Chandragiri Hill offers something that’s difficult to find: a blend of nature’s splendor, spirituality, and history—all in one day. It’s well-planned, safe, and never too commercialized. And the best part? You return revitalized and rejuvenated a little closer to the clouds, literally and figuratively.
A one-day Chandragiri Cable Car tour offers a convenient and scenic escape from Kathmandu’s hustle, taking visitors up to Chandragiri Hills at 2,551 meters. The cable car ride itself is a thrilling experience, soaring over lush forests and providing panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks. Once at the top, visitors can explore the serene hilltop, visit the beautiful Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, and enjoy walking trails with breathtaking vistas. The site also features picnic spots, cafes, and viewpoints perfect for photography or simply relaxing in nature. This day trip is ideal for those looking to combine natural beauty, cultural experience, and stunning mountain views without extensive trekking.
The Chandragiri Cable Car is a 2.4 km gondola ride that ascends from the base station in Thankot to Chandragiri Hill at 2,551 meters. The 10–12 minute ride offers sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding Himalayan ranges, including Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and on clear days, Mount Everest.