Trekking · Kathmandu
Nagarjun Short Loop Hike
A forest climb to the Jamacho stupa and viewpoint in the Nagarjun side of the national park.
The Nagarjun short loop hike is a shaded forest climb to the Jamacho summit inside the western half of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, just northwest of Kathmandu. Topped by a Buddhist stupa and a viewpoint at around 2,128 metres, Nagarjun is the easiest true forest summit you can reach from the city, and a long-standing favourite for weekend walkers, birdwatchers and pilgrims alike.
The route
The hike begins at the Phulbari gate on the Kathmandu–Trisuli road. From there a well-marked trail climbs steadily through dense oak and pine forest to the Jamacho summit. A wider forest road also leads to the top, so many walkers go up by trail and down by road (or the reverse) to make a loop. The summit holds a small stupa, a viewpoint tower and, on a clear morning, a sweeping panorama over the Kathmandu Valley with the Ganesh and Langtang Himal floating to the north. Allow four to five hours for the round trip.
What to expect
- Forest and wildlife: The Nagarjun woods shelter deer, monkeys, pheasants and a wide variety of birds, and the canopy keeps the trail cool even at midday.
- The summit stupa: Jamacho is a recognised Buddhist pilgrimage spot, with prayer flags strung across the viewpoint.
- A close escape: At only 15 to 20 minutes from central Kathmandu, this is the quickest way to get into real forest from the city.
Getting there and permits
The Phulbari gate is a short taxi ride northwest of central Kathmandu. As part of the national park, Nagarjun charges a small entry ticket at the gate, so bring cash and ID. Climbers will recognise this forest from the Nagarjun forest bouldering crags nearby, and the walk pairs well with the Tokha to Shivapuri short hike and the Swayambhu to Halchowk hike on the same northwestern rim. It belongs to our collection of short nature escapes from Kathmandu.
Tips
Start early for the clearest summit views, carry water and snacks as there are no shops in the forest, and wear shoes with grip for the trail. For more options see the best day hikes near Kathmandu, and check getting around Nepal for transport to the Phulbari gate.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Nagarjun loop hike?+
The climb to the Jamacho summit and back is roughly four to five hours on foot, making a full half-day to gentle full-day outing. There is also a forest road to the top for those who prefer a less steep ascent or descent.
What is at the top of Nagarjun?+
The Nagarjun summit, known as Jamacho (about 2,128 metres), is crowned by a Buddhist stupa and a viewpoint tower. On a clear day it gives views over the Kathmandu Valley and out toward the Himalaya to the north.
Do you need a permit for the Nagarjun hike?+
Yes. Nagarjun forest is the western section of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, so you pay a small entry ticket at the Phulbari gate. Carry cash and ID.
Where does the Nagarjun hike start?+
It starts at the Phulbari gate of the Nagarjun forest on the Kathmandu–Trisuli road, only about 15 to 20 minutes northwest of central Kathmandu, making it one of the closest forest climbs to the city.
