Nagarjun, Jamacho Hill is also the best for bird watching. As well as a familiarization to experience the landscapes and terrains of the Himalayas. Before heading towards major higher trekking destinations, and other adventures around the Nepal Himalayas.
Nagarjun, Jamacho Hiking is a perfect country walk, suitable for all types of people and age groups. The best ways to enjoy, fresh cool air amidst pristine surroundings, within lovely woods and far from the bustling city.
The Nagarjun, Jamacho, is located on a high ridge at 2,128 m towards North West from the Kathmandu Valley. The rolling green hills that surround the valley floor, can be seen from Kathmandu city, along with snow-capped peaks.
The areas of Nagarjun and Jamacho high hills are situated within Shivapuri National Park enriched with exotic flora and fauna.
The Nagarjun and Jamacho are also popular picnic spots for the city folks of Kathmandu on a weekend holiday. As a good escape from the busy hustle and bustle of the Kathmandu city life. Nagarjuna is the best and nearest scenic hilltops for hikers and adventurers to enjoy a day hike. Allows you good physical exercise, along with glorious views of Central and Western Himalayan peaks.
Facing the grand vista of Manaslu, Ganesh with Langtang and Jugal Himal, with a sweeping panorama of Kathmandu city and the valley.
The hike to Nagarjun and Jamacho hilltop leads to a steep climb from the entrance of the park. The climb leads to some gradual sections with a wide open field amidst the dense forest. The hike continues to the top of Nagarjun and Jamacho Hill, with observation towers. The hilltop within serene surroundings with a small Buddhist monastery houses the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha.
As well as a large idol of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, a famous saint of the 7th Century. The guru traveled from India, and meditated in the caves of Kathmandu valley, on his way to Tibet. On reaching Nagarjun and Jamacho Hilltop, after the good hiking of a few hours climb, along with spectacular scenery.
The return walk on easy gradual downhill to the exit gate of Nagarjun and Shivapuri National Park. Then drive back to your respective hotels, after a marvelous experience on Nagarjun, Jamacho Hiking.
Visitors can enjoy the hike to the hilltop of Nagarjun, Jamacho, around all seasons of the year. Excluding the wet monsoon of summer times. The right favorable and the best seasons are spring and autumn/fall. Spring begins in early March and ends in May, where most days are bright with sunshine for longer hours. From early 6:30 am till 5 pm, it can get cloudy afternoon sometimes with chances of light rains.
The next best season is autumn/fall, from September to November, when most days are fine and clear for views and hikes.
But much colder morning, late afternoon. Cold in the late afternoon, however, a pleasant season of autumn/fall for Nagarjun-Jamacho Hiking. Visitors can also enjoy during the winter time of Christmas and New Year Holidays. Most days are bright and sunny, and cold mornings till late afternoon. It is an enjoyable time for views and scenic hiking to Nagarjun, Jamacho high ridge.
Short Tour Profile
Hiking Grade: Moderate walks with steep climbs and downhill.
Highest Point: 2,128 m and 7, 645 feet on top Nagarjun, Jamacho Hilltop.
Location: North West of Kathmandu Valley Rim.
Tour Duration: Approx. 7-8 hours with drives both ways.
My day hike to Nagarjun Jamacho was one of the most refreshing experiences I had in Kathmandu. The trail starts just outside the busy city, yet within minutes you’re surrounded by dense forest, fresh air, and complete calm. Walking through pine and rhododendron trees, I could hear birds and feel the peaceful side of Nepal that many travelers miss. The hike was well-paced and suitable for a day trip, with a steady uphill that felt rewarding rather than exhausting. As we climbed higher, occasional viewpoints opened up, offering beautiful glimpses of the Kathmandu Valley below. Reaching Jamacho Monastery at the top was a special moment—the atmosphere was quiet and spiritual, perfect for a short rest and reflection. What I loved most was the contrast: in just a few hours, you go from city noise to nature and silence. This hike is ideal for travelers who want a short adventure, great views, and a taste of Nepal’s natural beauty without going far. Nagarjun Jamacho is absolutely worth doing if you’re in Kathmandu.”
Approx. 10 km North-West from the main city hub, the drive covers a close distance of 4-5 km to the start of hiking. The walking takes much longer than the actual distance, due to twists and turns with winding trails. As well as steep climbs of a few hours, taking more than 3-4 hours on the average from starting point.
The downhill of less than two hours to the parking lot, at Nagarjun and Shivapuri National Park entrance; and exit post.
Yes, Treklanders will arrange the packed lunch, for the day hiking of more 5-6 hours with drives both ways. Please inform in advance of the options of veg and non-veg, the guide and staff will carry or hand you before the hike.
Our expert Treklanders guide and staff will lead the day hike from the start at the hotel. As well to the end of hiking and escorts you to the hotels.
Can enjoy the Nagarjun and Jamacho Hike, in all seasons of the year, but best in spring when the days are longer. Full of sunny hours, the season for wildflowers in bloom, especially the rhododendrons of various colors and species.
The next best time is autumn/ fall when most days are clear with sunny, but get dark sooner. Cold morning and late afternoon, can hike in winter times also most days are crystal clear blue sky. But gets dark soon by 5 pm due to limited sunlight hours, cold morning and late afternoon.
Nagarjun Jamacho Day Hiking is a short and rewarding nature hike located on the north-western edge of Kathmandu Valley. The hike takes you inside Nagarjun–Shivapuri National Park to Jamacho Hill, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan ranges.
The entire hike will take around 5-6 hours to go and return for most people, which also includes taking breaks and sightseeing. A fit and experienced person might do it in a shorter time, but the trail is more of a leisurely walk.
The elements that distinguish Jamacho Hill are its calm forest trails, the religious aspect, and the wide viewpoints. Besides offering beautiful scenic views, the hilltop Buddhist monastery also provides a quiet environment away from the city's noise.
Hiking experience is not necessary. Anyone who likes to walk in nature and is capable of following a gradual uphill trail can do this hike without any problem.
This hike is perfect for travelers with a tight schedule, nature enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, photographers, and those who want to rejuvenate and rest without going far from Kathmandu.
Yes, this hike is appropriate for beginners and those who have a basic level of fitness. Even though some parts may be steep, the trail is well-maintained and doesn't call for technical hiking skills.
The good seasons are from September to November, December to February and from March to May when the temperature is still, and the sky is clear.
Indeed. Winter walks can be done when the sky is clear, but the mornings will be very cold. So, warm clothing should be brought.
One may go for a monsoon hike (June–August) when it is possible, but it is not recommended because the trail will be slippery and there will be more leeches.
The journey is graded as easy to moderate. The first part of the trail is a continuous uphill walk, whereas the rest of the sections are gentle and beautiful.
A moderate fitness level is advisable. Although the hike is not difficult from a technical standpoint, the uphill parts can be quite heavy for those who are not accustomed to walking uphill.
Yes, elderly travelers with good fitness can join. Treklanders guides keep the pace slow and comfortable, and hence, they always take breaks.
Children who are habitually walking and engaging in outdoor activities can be brought along, mainly teenagers. Parents should evaluate their child's stamina before joining.
One should be prepared for approximately 10 to 12 kilometers of total walking, which would depend on the walking speed and time spent at viewpoints.
The trek reaches a maximum elevation of 2,128 meters (6,982 feet), and hence, there is no risk of altitude sickness.
Yes. You need to purchase a national park entry permit to get into Nagarjun–Shivapuri National Park.
Yes. Treklanders Adventures takes care of all the necessary permits for you.
Definitely not a guide is required. While a solo hike is an option, Treklanders still advises the presence of a guide for safety, easy navigation, and obtaining cultural knowledge.
Guide leads correct trails, maintains safe pacing, shares local knowledge, makes aware of the wildlife, and most importantly provides historical explanation of the Jamacho monastery and its surroundings.
It is usually easy to find the trail, but at forest junctions, you can get quite confused, so a guide would be of great assistance.
Yes. The park has monkeys, deer, birds, and various plants, but seeing animals depends on your luck and the time of day.
It is good to have on you hiking shoes that are comfortable, water, some light snacks, sun protection, a light jacket, and a small daypack.
There is no need for special trekking gear. Comfortable walking shoes and casual outdoor clothing are enough.
There are no shops inside the park. So, bring along enough water and snacks from Kathmandu.
A short drive from your hotel to the Nagarjun National Park entrance near Balaju is how the hike gets underway.
Yes. Treklanders Adventures affords private round-trip transportation from your hotel in Kathmandu.
Indeed, the hike is safe, especially when accompanied by a guide. Additionally, Treklanders observe safety measures and change the pace depending on the group's capability.
Moreover, the guides have on hand first-aid kits and have undergone training in handling minor health issues during the trek.
Indeed. The organization of events at Treklanders, private tours, or linking the hike with other Kathmandu activities are some ways in which the hike can be customized by them.
Treklanders is the one who offers you all these: seasoned and safe guides, convenient transport, service to suit your needs, and profound knowledge of the area—thus a beautiful, safe, and unforgettable day hike.
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $250 |
| 2 - 3 | $150 |
| 4 - 8 | $135 |
| 9 - 30 | $105 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $60 |
| 2 - 3 | $45 |
| 4 - 8 | $40 |
| 9 - 30 | $30 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $80 |
| 2 - 3 | $45 |
| 4 - 8 | $40 |
| 9 - 30 | $30 |
