Trekking · Kathmandu
Gokarna Riverside Walk
A gentle Bagmati riverside stroll past Gokarna Mahadev temple and the Gokarna forest edge.
The Gokarna riverside walk is the gentlest nature escape near Kathmandu — a near-level stroll along the Bagmati river at Gokarna, east of the city, past the beautifully carved Gokarna Mahadev temple and the leafy edge of the Gokarna forest. With almost no climbing, it suits families, casual walkers and anyone wanting green and water rather than a hill, all within a short drive of the centre.
The route
The walk centres on Gokarna Mahadev temple, a 16th-century pagoda Shiva shrine famous for its exquisite stone carvings and as the focus of Gokarna Aunsi, Nepal's Father's Day. From the temple you can follow the Bagmati upstream and downstream along quiet riverside paths, with the wooded Gokarna forest — a former royal hunting reserve — rising on one side. The walk is easily lengthened or shortened to fit your morning, and the river, ghats and forest edge give it a calm, almost rural feel despite being so close to the capital.
What to expect
- The temple: Pause to admire the carvings and the riverside ghats; it is an active place of worship, so dress modestly and walk respectfully.
- River and forest: Birdlife is good along the water and at the forest margin, and the canopy offers welcome shade.
- Gentle going: This is a flat riverside walk, not a climb — the easiest escape in the collection.
Getting there
Gokarna is about 25 to 35 minutes from central Kathmandu by taxi, on the eastern side of the valley not far from Boudhanath. The riverside path and temple are free; the fenced Gokarna forest park may charge its own entry. The walk pairs naturally with the equally relaxed Kopan hill walk nearby above Boudhanath, and contrasts with the steeper forest climb of the Budhanilkantha to Nagi Gompa hike to the north. It is part of our short nature escapes from Kathmandu collection.
Tips
Mornings are quietest and coolest; carry water and watch for monkeys around the temple. Combine the walk with a visit to nearby Boudhanath for a full half day. For other easy outings see the best day hikes near Kathmandu, and our getting around Nepal guide covers reaching Gokarna.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Gokarna riverside walk?+
It is a short, gentle walk of one to two hours along the Bagmati river near Gokarna, easily adjusted to your time. With little climbing, it is the most relaxed nature escape in the collection.
What is at Gokarna?+
Gokarna, east of Kathmandu, is home to the 16th-century Gokarna Mahadev temple beside the Bagmati and the wooded Gokarna forest, once a royal hunting reserve. The riverside and forest edge make for a calm, green walk close to the city.
Do you need a permit for the Gokarna riverside walk?+
The riverside path and the temple are free to visit. The fenced Gokarna forest park area itself may charge a separate entry fee; the open riverside walk does not require a national park ticket.
Is the Gokarna walk suitable for families?+
Yes. With its near-level riverside path and the temple to explore, it is one of the most family-friendly nature escapes near Kathmandu, though keep children away from the river's edge and watch for monkeys around the temple.
