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Nagarjun, a legendary hill close to Kathmandu valley is located to the North-west of Kathmandu. A day hiking to Nagarjun hill is easy, short but rewarding. It offers the flavor of hiking on the mountain within the surrounding of Kathmandu valley. There is historical peak named Jamacho Peak located at the height of 6300 ft which is almost 2 and half an hour walk up to the top of the hill. As you get the top of the hill, the view of Kathmandu valley and panoramic view of other mountain range are fabulous. Simultaneously, the hill Nagarjuna is very famous for some caves like Nagarjuna, Buddha and Mahasiddas.
There is a legend about an idiot buffalo herdsman that how he became Buddha buffalo after meditation. Acharya Nagarjuna was called by a buffalo herdsman to the city and instead he told the herdsman to sit with him in the cave and do meditation and he did. He thought of nothing except buffalo during the meditation and he became Buddha Buffalo. Still the cave if famous for Buddha Buffalo cave to the visitors.
Despite being a day hiking, Nagarjun hiking offers a holistic experience to hiking on the mountain as well as offers the view of popular mountain range to the north and at the same time it offers a glimpse of legendary caves.
Our local guides are not just knowledgeable; they’re passionate about sharing the rich culture and beauty of the Himalayas.
We focus on providing authentic, immersive experiences by connecting you with local communities and offering you a chance to explore Nepal
Your trek, your way! We tailor every itinerary to match your pace and preferences, ensuring that you have the best possible adventure.
If you’re looking for more trekking challenges, consider exploring some of Nepal’s most iconic treks. After your Nagarjun hike, you might be inspired to experience the Everest Base Camp Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek: Challenge yourself by trekking to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters, where you can stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain and enjoy awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. Learn More & Book
Annapurna Circuit Trek: Discover the beauty and diversity of Nepal’s landscapes with the Annapurna Circuit Trek, a journey through lush forests, high-altitude deserts, and charming villages. Don’t miss the incredible Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). Learn More & Book
Nagarjun, also known as Rani Ban, is a serene day hike located within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, just a short drive from Kathmandu. It offers a peaceful escape, with panoramic mountain views, lush forests, and a visit to the sacred Jamacho Monastery. The hike is perfect for beginners and nature lovers.
The best seasons for this hike are autumn (Sep-Nov) and spring (Mar-May) when the weather is clear, ensuring great visibility and comfortable hiking conditions. Winter (Dec-Feb) is also a good time, though it can be chilly. The monsoon season (Jun-Aug) is not ideal due to slippery trails and cloudy weather.
This 8 km (5 miles) round-trip hike falls under the easy to moderate category, making it accessible for beginners and experienced hikers alike. The trail features gradual ascents, some steep sections, and stone-paved steps, requiring basic fitness.
The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is home to an array of wildlife, birds, and plant species. Expect to see spotted deer, wild boars, langurs, and even Himalayan black bears in their natural habitat. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting Himalayan monals, woodpeckers, and eagles. The forests are dense with rhododendrons, pine, and oak trees, providing a lush green environment year-round.
For a comfortable hiking experience, it’s essential to carry:
A Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park permit is required:
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pax | 2 | 3 | $90.00 |
| 2 | Pax | 3 | 5 | $80.00 |
| 3 | Pax | 5 | 9 | $70.00 |
| 4 | Pax | 9 | 15 | $39.00 |
A local guide typically costs around $20-$30 per day for the Nagarjun (Rani Ban) Day Hike. This price includes guiding services and trekking insights.
Yes, the trail is well-marked and can be hiked independently, but it’s recommended to have a guide for safety, cultural insights, and navigation assistance.
Nagarjun (Rani Ban) Day Hiking is a scenic and relatively easy trek located near Kathmandu. It takes trekkers through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, offering lush forest trails, stunning Himalayan views, and a visit to the Jamacho Monastery.
The hike is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) round-trip and typically takes 4 to 6 hours, making it an ideal option for those looking for a short but fulfilling hiking experience near Kathmandu.
The trek is easy to moderate. The trail has a gradual ascent with some steep sections, making it suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike. Basic fitness is required.
Key highlights include: Jamacho Monastery at 2,128 meters. Panoramic views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna ranges. Rich biodiversity within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.
The Jamacho Monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Kathmandu Valley. The peaceful atmosphere, colorful prayer flags, and Buddhist inscriptions add to its spiritual ambiance.
The best time to hike is during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). These seasons provide clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and great visibility of the mountains.
While the trail is well-marked, having a guide enhances the experience by providing insights into the local flora, fauna, and culture. It also ensures safety, especially for first-time hikers.
The hike starts from Balaju Bypass (about a 15-minute drive from Thamel, Kathmandu). Transportation to the starting point is provided by most trekking agencies.
The Jamacho Monastery sits at an altitude of 2,128 meters (6,982 feet). From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the valley below.
Yes, the hike is family-friendly. It's ideal for families with children above 10 years old. The relatively short distance and moderate difficulty level make it a great option for a family outing.
Yes, kids above 10 years who are physically active can enjoy this hike. Make sure to take regular breaks, especially for younger children.
Yes, the Nagarjun (Rani Ban) Day Hike is perfect for beginners due to its manageable trail and moderate difficulty. You don't need advanced trekking experience to complete the hike.
Essential items include: Comfortable hiking shoes. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Water bottle (minimum 1.5 liters). Snacks for energy. Camera for scenic photos. Light jacket (if hiking in winter).
The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is home to various species such as spotted deer, langur monkeys, Himalayan black bears, and bird species like Himalayan monals, eagles, and woodpeckers.
Entry to the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park requires a permit: Foreigners: NPR 1,000 (~$8 USD). SAARC Nationals: NPR 600 (~$5 USD). Nepali Citizens: NPR 100 (~$1 USD).
The entire hike takes approximately 4-6 hours, including the ascent to Jamacho Monastery and the return trip to Kathmandu.
The terrain consists of a mix of stone-paved steps and dirt paths through lush forest areas. Some sections may be steep, but overall, the trail is well-maintained.
Unfortunately, the trail to Jamacho Monastery involves some steep sections and rough terrain, making it challenging for people with mobility issues. However, alternative hikes with easier terrain are available.
While Mount Everest is not visible from the Jamacho Monastery, the hike offers panoramic views of other Himalayan ranges, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna.
Yes, there are several rest stops along the trail where you can catch your breath, enjoy the natural beauty, and hydrate before continuing.
Yes, photography is encouraged. The Jamacho Monastery and surrounding views are particularly photogenic, offering ample opportunities to capture the natural beauty.
There are some tea houses and local stalls along the trail where you can purchase light refreshments such as tea, coffee, and snacks. However, it's recommended to bring your own food and water for convenience.
The monsoon season (June to August) is not ideal for hiking due to slippery trails, and the risk of landslides. It's better to hike during the dry seasons of spring or autumn.
You can book the Nagarjun Day Hike through trekking agencies like Himalaya Hub Adventure. They offer hassle-free permits, guides, transportation, and organized trips.
Yes, the Nagarjun Day Hike offers spectacular scenery, including forest views, wildlife, and Himalayan panoramas. Photographers will enjoy capturing the diverse landscapes.
Alternative hikes near Kathmandu include: Shivapuri National Park Hike. Champadevi Hike. Nagarkot Sunrise Hike.
Prepare by getting sufficient rest, wearing appropriate clothing, and carrying essential gear. Also, acclimatize by spending some time at lower altitudes before the hike.
Expect lush forests of pine, rhododendron, and oak, along with wildlife such as deer, monkeys, and various bird species, including the Himalayan monal.
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