Chandragiri Hills Hiking

Kathmandu Valley 1 Days GJHKKTM101

Overview

Escape the busy streets of Kathmandu and experience one of the most scenic day hikes in the valley with the unforgettable journey to Chandragiri Hills. This hiking adventure combines peaceful forest trails, panoramic Himalayan views, rich local culture, and spiritual experiences in a single day.

 

The Chandragiri Hills Hiking trail is ideal for nature lovers, families, solo travelers, groups, and anyone seeking a refreshing outdoor escape near Kathmandu. The route passes through traditional villages, lush green forests, and ancient stone staircases once used by local villagers traveling between Kathmandu and Chitlang.

 

At the summit of Chandragiri Hills (2550m/8364ft), hikers are rewarded with breathtaking mountain views stretching from western Nepal to eastern Nepal, including peaks such as Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Manaslu, Langtang Himal, and Gaurishankar. The hilltop is also home to the sacred Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

 

Whether you are looking for a short hiking adventure, mountain photography opportunity, or a peaceful nature experience, Chandragiri Hills Hiking offers the perfect day trip from Kathmandu.

Trip Facts

Duration 1 Days
Difficulty Moderate
Max Altitude 2550m/8364ft
Best Season March to May & September to November
Style / Activity Trekking & Hiking
Group Size 1+ Pax
Accommodation Day Hiking / Excursion
Start / End Mata Tirtha Temple/Thankot or Hattiban

Licensed local operator. 24/7 support before and during your trip.

Trip Highlights

  • Scenic day hike through peaceful forest trails near the Kathmandu Valley
  • Visit sacred sites including Mata Tirtha Temple and Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple
  • Enjoy spectacular Himalayan mountain views and traditional village walking trails
  • Great opportunity for bird watching and nature photography in rich natural surroundings
  • Perfect short escape from Kathmandu with flexible return options, including an optional cable car ride

Itinerary

Location: Chandragiri Hills
Duration: 5-6 hours.
Altitude Different: +1200m/3936.96ft.
Meal: N/A (Available on request)
Accommodation: N/A

7:00 AM – Hotel Pickup

Your professional hiking guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu and transfer you to the hiking starting point by private vehicle.

 

8:00 AM – Start Hiking from Matatirtha Temple

The hike begins from Matatirtha Temple. The trail initially follows a local road for around 30 minutes before reaching the APF Academy area. From here, the route becomes steeper as you climb ancient stone staircases through forest trails toward Chakhel Deurali.

 

After approximately 2.5 hours of hiking, you can rest at a local tea shop and enjoy tea, coffee, or packed snacks.

 

The trail then continues through peaceful forest sections before finally reaching Chandragiri Hills at 2550m.

 

At the hilltop, explore Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple and enjoy incredible panoramic views of the Himalayan range extending across Nepal.

 

Descent Options

After spending quality time at the summit, you can choose one of several descent routes:

  • Return via the same hiking trail
  • Descend through Chitlang Bhanjyang to Thankot
  • Follow the cable car underpass trail
  • Optional cable car ride for an easier return

 

Your guide will help select the best route depending on weather, fitness level, and preference.

 

The descent usually takes around 2 hours.

 

3:00 PM – Drive Back to Kathmandu

 

After completing the hike, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Kathmandu by private vehicle.

Cost Includes & Excludes

What's Included?

  • Professional local hiking guide
  • First aid support
  • Private vehicle for hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Entrance fees

What's Excluded?

  • Food and drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Cable car ticket (if used)

Map and Elevation

FAQ's

Chandragiri Hills Hiking is perfect for travelers looking for a short yet rewarding outdoor adventure near Kathmandu. The hike combines culture, spirituality, nature, mountain views, and local village experiences within a single day, making it one of the most popular hiking destinations around the valley.

The Chandragiri Forest region is rich in biodiversity and medicinal herbs found within the subtropical zone between 1,000m and 2,275m. Nature lovers and bird watchers can observe many species during the hike, including:

  • Grey Wagtail
  • Steppe Eagle
  • Kingfishe
  • Oriental Turtle Dove
  • Common Myna
  • Red-vented Bulbul
  • Great Egret
  • Spotted Dove
  • House Sparrow

 

The peaceful greenery and forest atmosphere make this hike especially relaxing and refreshing.

The best seasons for Chandragiri Hills Hiking are:

  • Spring (February to June)
  • Autumn (September to December)

 

During these months, the weather is generally clear, offering excellent mountain views and comfortable hiking conditions.

 

Winter hikes are also possible, though mornings can be cold and foggy.

Chandragiri Hills Hiking is considered a moderate-level hike suitable for most travelers with average fitness. The trail includes steep uphill sections and stone staircases, but the rewarding views and forest scenery make the effort worthwhile.

 

The optional cable car descent also makes the trip suitable for families and beginners.

  1. Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
  2. Carry water, sunscreen, and a light jacket
  3. Bring a camera for mountain photography
  4. Start early for clearer Himalayan views
  5. Respect local culture and temple areas

Plan Your Trip with Ghumnajaau

This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purpose.
Need an offline or printable copy?
Get Friendly Version

Similar Trips

Explore similar adventures in Kathmandu Valley.
Kathmandu Valley

Kalinchok Tour

Duration: 2 days

From $165

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Heritage Tour: 7 UNESCO Monument Zones

Duration: 3 days

From $75

Kathmandu Valley

Champa Devi Day Hiking

Duration: 1 days

From $70