Chandragiri Day Hike
Tour Duration
1 day
Best time to go
Sep-Nov, Mar-May
Group Size
1-25 People
Max Altitude
2551m
Accommodation
Teahouse
Tour Grade
easy
Area
Nepal
Hours of Walking
5-9 Hours
Start point - End point
Kathamndu
Overview of Chandragiri Day Hike
Chandragiri Day Hike is among the most beautiful and worthwhile short treks near Kathmandu Valley, with the perfect blend of nature, adventure, spirituality, and spectacular panorama. Standing at an altitude of 2,551 meters, Chandragiri Hill is popular among trekkers as much as pilgrims. The trek is a welcome respite from the urban jungle, where one can soak in green forest cover, varied plant and animal life, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
On a clear day, one gets a breathtaking view of the Manaslu massif, with Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and even Mount Everest visible in the distant horizon. The trek is easy in nature and thus can be undertaken by beginners, adventure seekers, and trekkers looking for a short venture into the woods.
Chandragiri Day Hike begins at Thankot, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from central Kathmandu. The trail is well marked but consists of a steep climb along oak and rhododendron forest-covered paths. Along the way, trekkers have the opportunity to enjoy the refreshing scent of pine trees, the songs of birds, and minimal contact with the local wildlife. The path also features peaceful surroundings, hence a great trek for someone who yearns for solitude and peace.The Chandragiri Day Hike tends to take roughly 3 to 4 hours to the summit, depending on your pace and physical fitness.
One of the most prominent attractions of the Chandragiri Day Hike is the Chandragiri Temple (Bhairav Temple), a holy Hindu temple in the name of Lord Shiva. It is believed that this site is religiously very significant because King Prithvi Narayan Shah would meditate here before conquering the Kathmandu Valley in the 18th century, which formed Nepal. Pilgrims flock to the temple for blessings, especially on Shivaratri and other Hindu festivals.
For people wanting to enjoy the scenery without physically having to trek there, another alternative is the Chandragiri Cable Car, with a stunning 10-minute trip from Thankot to the top of Chandragiri Hill. This allows people to enjoy panaromic views without attempting the strenuous hike. But the feeling of success and adventure of trekking through the virgin surroundings is something all to itself.
At the peak of Chandragiri, there are a viewing tower, restaurants, and rest places, and it is an excellent place to relax after the trek. The view of the Kathmandu Valley from here is simply breathtaking, with the city being seen from a vantage point against the overwhelming backdrop of the Himalayas. Quite a few tourists prefer to linger here, capture photographs, consume local delicacies, or just bask in the serene atmosphere.
Overall, Chandragiri Day Hike is an excellent blend of adventure, nature, and culture. If you are a trekker, a spiritual seeker, or simply a city resident in search of relief from the urban mayhem, this hike will provide an experience that you will never forget. With its well-marked trails, breathtaking views, and rich historical significance, Chandragiri is among the best places to hike near Kathmandu.
Itinerary
The Chandragiri day hike is a scenic and invigorating adventure just outside Kathmandu, offering a perfect mix of nature, history, and breathtaking mountain views.
Starting from the base at Thankot, the trail winds uphill through lush forests, peaceful trails, and occasional stone steps, making it a moderately challenging but rewarding journey. As you ascend, the quiet of the forest and fresh mountain air provide a welcome break from the city.
The highlight of the hike is reaching the top of Chandragiri Hill, where the historic Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple stands, believed to be connected to Lord Shiva. From the summit, hikers are treated to sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley and, on clear days, a stunning panorama of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even Mount Everest in the distance.
This hike is not only a physical escape but also a spiritual and visual delight for those looking to reconnect with nature and culture in a single day.
Cost Include
- Private car from Kathmandu to Kathmandu
- An experience tour guide
- One lunch
- Cabal car ticket (one way)
Cost Exclude
- Breakfast in Kathmandu
- Extra food during the hiking
- Extra activities in Chandragiri hill
- Tips for guide and driver
FAQs
The best time to do the Chandragiri Day Hike is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is clear, temperatures are mild, and the views are at their best.
During these months, hikers can enjoy stunning panoramas of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even Mount Everest on especially clear days. The trails are surrounded by lush greenery in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, making the hike both visually rewarding and comfortable.
While winter (December to February) also offers clear skies and fewer crowds, it can be quite chilly, especially in the mornings. The monsoon season (June to August) is less suitable due to rain, slippery paths, and cloud-covered views. For the best experience, it’s recommended to start the hike early in the day to take advantage of cooler temperatures and clear morning skies.
The Chandragiri Day Hike typically takes around 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on your starting point and walking pace. The uphill hike from Matatirtha to the top of Chandragiri Hill usually takes about 3 to 4 hours through forested trails and gradual ascents.
For the return journey, hikers can either walk back down taking an additional 1 to 2 hoursor opt for a scenic 15-minute ride on the Chandragiri cable car. The trail is moderately challenging, making it a manageable day hike for most people with average fitness. Starting early in the day is recommended to enjoy clear views and a relaxed pace.
The Chandragiri Day Hike is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves a steady uphill climb through forested trails, with some steep sections, especially near the top. However, the trail is well-marked and doesn’t require technical skills or prior trekking experience.
On the Chandragiri Day Hike, you’ll enjoy a mix of natural beauty, forest landscapes, and panoramic mountain views. As you hike through lush green hills and peaceful forests, you’ll pass through traditional villages and enjoy views of the Kathmandu Valley below.
From the top of Chandragiri Hill (2,551 meters), on a clear day, you can see a spectacular range of Himalayan peaks, including:
Mount Everest
Langtang
Ganesh Himal
Gaurishankar
Manaslu
And other snow-capped peaks in the distance
Price Per Person
$200
