Are you sick of the bustle of the city and ready for some fresh air? head over no farther than Nagarjuna Hill, one of the most wonderful day hikes in Kathmandu. Nagarjuna promises to be a recharging escape just minutes away from the bustling city, located among lush forests and offering stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley. However, don’t let its nearness fool you this beautiful paradise is mighty, which requires some effort but rewards you with unmatched beauty.
The Beginning Point of the Journey:
A short drive northwest of Kathmandu is Phulbari Gate, where your Nagarjuna adventure begins. From there, there’s a beautiful drive that winds through Raniban (Queen’s Forest) or, for the more risky among you, a more steep, wooded trail. At the base of the hill, where the actual climb starts, where both of the paths come together.
Reaching for Peace:
Get ready for a satisfying challenge! Stone steps, routing dirt paths, and rare struggles over tree roots are all features of the Nagarjuna trail. There are views of the valley below as well as a test of your leg muscles as the slope increases over time. Take a breath deeply, take in the soft sunlight shining through the leaves, and enjoy a melody of birdsong – the natural support to your climb.
Reaching the Peak:
Climbing slowly for about two hours will bring you to the summit of Jamacho Peak (2128m). You will breathe at the sight of the huge Kathmandu Valley spread out before you like a green tapestry, covered by the high Himalayas. On clear days, you can even make out the snow-capped mountains of Jugal Himal, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal bright in the distance.
Revealing the Secret Treasures:
The summit is only the start. There are several hidden gems high on Nagarjuna Hill just waiting to be found:
Jamacho Gompa: A lovely Buddhist monastery set on the summit provides an oasis for thinking and prayer.
Nagarjuna Cave: The legend surrounding Nagarjuna Cave, which is supposed to have been the Buddhist scholar Nagarjuna’s meditation getaway adds the hike a sense of mystery.
Observation Tower: The climb of the observation tower offers a complete 180-degree panorama of the valley. This is a wonderful spot for observing the expansive nature of the area around you and taking beautiful photographs.
More Than Just a Hike:
Nagarjuna is a cultural and mystical journey as well as a physical challenge. See colorful prayer flags hanging in the air, listen to the soft songs of monks, and take in the peace that comes with Buddhist traditions. If luck favors you, you may even spot animals like langurs and monkeys jumping among the trees.
Tips For Hiking:
Pack light a meal, lots of water, and comfy hiking shoes. Use sunscreen and bug repellent, especially during the summer. Remember to observe the regional traditions and avoid leaving trash behind. Above all, show up with an adventurous spirit and an open mind.
