Trekking · Kathmandu
Jamacho Gompa Hike (Nagarjun)
A forest climb up Nagarjun to the Jamacho hilltop stupa, with sweeping valley and Himalaya views.
The Jamacho Gompa hike climbs the Nagarjun forest on the western side of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to a hilltop Buddhist stupa at 2,128 m, the highest point of the Nagarjun massif. From the Phulbari gate near the Ring Road, it is a steady forest climb rewarded with sweeping views over the Kathmandu Valley and, on clear mornings, the Himalaya to the north.
The hike
The trail starts at the Phulbari gate, just off the Ring Road on the north-west edge of the city, and winds up through dense sal and oak forest. Allow 2.5 to 3.5 hours to the top, gaining around 800 m. The forest is shaded and rich in birdlife, and the same woods are popular with climbers — see the Nagarjun forest bouldering pin. At the summit, the Jamacho stupa and gompa sit in a clearing strung with prayer flags, a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site that draws devotees especially around festivals.
The view
On a clear post-monsoon or winter morning the summit looks out over the whole valley, the white dome of Swayambhunath below, and the snow line of the Ganesh Himal and Langtang ranges to the north. A road also runs up through the forest to a viewpoint near the top, so you can drive much of the way if you prefer, but the forest walk is the appeal.
Getting there and permits
The Phulbari gate is a short taxi ride from central Kathmandu or Thamel. You pay the national park entry fee at the gate, so carry cash in Nepali rupees. Start early for the clearest views, before haze builds over the valley.
When to go
The best season is October to April for dry trails and mountain views — see our notes on the best time to visit Nepal. Carry water and snacks; there are no reliable shops on the trail. For a contrast on the eastern side of the park, the bigger Shivapuri Peak hike and the full set of routes in the best day hikes near Kathmandu guide round out the north rim. Plan the rest of your visit from the Kathmandu hub.
Featured in
More trekking & treks in Kathmandu
Frequently asked questions
What is Jamacho?+
Jamacho is the highest point of the Nagarjun forest, at about 2,128 m, on the western side of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. A Buddhist stupa and gompa crown the summit, and the hilltop is a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site with valley and mountain views.
How long is the Jamacho hike?+
From the Phulbari gate near the Ring Road it is a steady forest climb of about 2.5 to 3.5 hours up, gaining roughly 800 m, and a couple of hours back down. It makes a good half-day to full-day hike from the city.
Can you drive up Nagarjun?+
A road runs through the Nagarjun forest to a viewpoint near the top, so it is possible to drive much of the way. Hikers, however, take the forest trail from Phulbari for the walk through woodland to the Jamacho stupa.
Do I need a permit for the Nagarjun forest?+
Yes. Nagarjun is part of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, so you pay the entry fee at the Phulbari gate. Bring cash in Nepali rupees; rates differ for foreigners, SAARC nationals and Nepalis.
