Things to do · Kathmandu
Chandragiri Hills
A cable car to a 2,550 m hilltop with Himalaya panoramas, a hill temple and picnic spots — an easy half-day from the city.
- Rating
- ★ 4.5 (7000)
- Price
- $$
- Address
- Thankot, Kathmandu Valley
Chandragiri Hills rises on the western rim of the Kathmandu Valley, and a cable car whisks you from the valley floor at Thankot to a 2,550 m hilltop in about ten minutes. It is one of the easiest ways to swap the city for a wide mountain horizon, making it a favourite half-day escape.
What to expect
From the summit you get a sweeping panorama over the whole Kathmandu Valley and, on a clear day, a long line of the Himalaya — Everest among them. At the top sits the Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple, along with viewpoints, walking paths and picnic spots where families spread out for the afternoon.
Good to know
- Best time: Early morning or autumn for the clearest mountain views; haze often builds by midday.
- Time needed: A half-day, including the cable car each way and time at the top.
- Getting there: The Thankot base station is about an hour by taxi from central Kathmandu.
Chandragiri is one of the headline trips in our guide to the best day trips from Kathmandu. For another Himalaya viewpoint, pair it with the hill town of Dhulikhel, or stay in the valley for the temples of Patan Durbar Square.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you see Everest from Chandragiri Hills?+
On a clear day, yes — Everest and a long stretch of the Himalaya are visible from the Chandragiri hilltop, along with a sweeping view over the whole Kathmandu Valley. Mountain views are most reliable in autumn (October to November) and clear winter mornings.
How long is the Chandragiri cable car ride?+
The cable car climbs from the valley floor at Thankot to the 2,550 m summit in roughly 10 minutes, gaining over 1,000 metres. It is the easiest way up; a hiking trail also reaches the top for those who prefer to walk.
How do I get to Chandragiri Hills from Kathmandu?+
The cable car base station at Thankot is about an hour by taxi from central Kathmandu, on the western edge of the valley. Agree a return fare or have the driver wait, as taxis back to the city are scarce at the base station.
Is Chandragiri Hills good for families?+
Yes. The cable car, the hilltop Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple, viewpoints and picnic spots make it an easy, popular outing for families and a relaxed half-day for most visitors. Weekends can be busy, so arriving early helps.
