Trekking · Kathmandu
Chandragiri to Bhaleshwor Hike
Climb the southwest valley rim to the 2,550 m Chandragiri hilltop and the Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple.
The Chandragiri to Bhaleshwor hike climbs the southwestern rim of the Kathmandu Valley to the 2,550 metre summit of Chandragiri and its hilltop Shiva temple, Bhaleshwor Mahadev. A forest trail from the Thankot side gains over a kilometre of height to a top that pairs a revered shrine with one of the broadest Himalayan views reached from the city — Everest among the peaks on the clearest mornings. This pin focuses on the walking route; for the cable-car option and the wider hilltop, see the Chandragiri Hills pin.
The route
The trail starts near the cable-car base at Thankot, on the western edge of the valley about an hour by taxi from central Kathmandu. From there it climbs steadily through forest to the summit ridge, taking roughly three to four hours up. A popular way to enjoy it is to hike up and ride the cable car down, or the reverse, sparing the legs while still walking the forest. Once on top, paved paths link the temple, viewpoints and picnic spots along the crest.
Bhaleshwor Mahadev and the view
The summit carries the Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple, a Shiva shrine whose legend ties it to the goddess Sati, drawing pilgrims alongside day visitors. From the surrounding viewpoints the panorama sweeps over the whole Kathmandu Valley and, on a clear day, a long line of the Himalaya including Everest. It is one of the most reliable big views close to the city and a favourite for clear-morning outings — see where it ranks among the best viewpoints in Nepal.
Good to know
- Best views in autumn and on clear winter mornings; haze builds by midday.
- Getting there: The Thankot base is about an hour by taxi; arrange a return fare.
- Half-day option: Walk one way and use the cable car the other to save time.
- Weekends can be busy at the summit, so an early start helps.
Chandragiri is one of the Kathmandu Valley viewpoint hikes; pair it with the higher Phulchowki hike on the opposite rim or the short Halchowk hill hike for an easier western-edge view, and see the best sunrise spots in Nepal and the Nepal trekking guide for more.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Bhaleshwor Mahadev?+
Bhaleshwor Mahadev is a hilltop Shiva temple on the 2,550 metre summit of Chandragiri, on the southwestern rim of the Kathmandu Valley. Tradition links it to the goddess Sati, and it draws pilgrims as well as day visitors who come for the temple and the sweeping mountain view.
Can you hike up Chandragiri instead of taking the cable car?+
Yes. A forest trail climbs from the Thankot side to the Chandragiri summit, gaining over a kilometre of height, and many walkers hike up and ride the cable car down or do the reverse. The walk takes roughly three to four hours up through the forest.
Can you see Everest from Bhaleshwor?+
On a clear day, yes — the Chandragiri summit opens a long stretch of the Himalaya, with Everest visible far to the east, along with a full panorama over the Kathmandu Valley. Autumn and clear winter mornings give the most reliable views.
How do I get to the Chandragiri trailhead?+
The base at Thankot, on the western edge of the valley, is about an hour by taxi from central Kathmandu. From there the walking trail and the cable car both climb to the summit; agree a return fare or have the driver wait, as taxis back are scarce at the base.
