Trekking · Kathmandu
Sundarijal to Mulkharka Hike
A stair climb from Sundarijal past the reservoir to the Tamang village of Mulkharka in Shivapuri.
The Sundarijal to Mulkharka hike climbs stone steps from the Sundarijal gate, past Kathmandu's water reservoir and up through Shivapuri forest to the Tamang village of Mulkharka at around 1,800 m. It is one of the most popular half-day walks in Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and the classic first stage of the longer trek to Chisapani.
The route
From Sundarijal, at the north-eastern corner of the valley, the trail enters the national park and follows a flight of stone steps alongside the dam, pipelines and small waterfall of the city's water supply. The path then climbs steadily through forest, with views opening back over the valley as you gain height. After about 2 to 3 hours and roughly 500 m of ascent you reach Mulkharka, a Tamang farming village with simple tea houses where many walkers stop for a meal before turning back or continuing on.
Where it leads
Mulkharka is the gateway to the high north rim. Most day hikers either return to Sundarijal the way they came or push on along the Mulkharka to Chisapani trail, the start of the popular Chisapani–Nagarkot circuit. Stronger walkers can branch up toward Shivapuri Peak for a much longer day.
Getting there and permits
Sundarijal is about an hour from central Kathmandu by taxi, or you can take a local bus or shared vehicle — see our notes on getting around Nepal. You pay the national park entry fee at the Sundarijal gate, so carry cash in Nepali rupees, with separate rates for foreigners, SAARC nationals and Nepalis. The lower stone steps can be busy with local visitors and families on Saturdays, so start early for a quieter, cooler climb.
When to go and what to bring
Walk between October and April for clear air and dry footing; the monsoon brings mud and leeches. The stone steps are steep in places, so good shoes help, and you should carry water and snacks even though tea houses appear at Mulkharka. This walk is a fine warm-up before bigger routes — see the best day hikes near Kathmandu and pair it with a stop at the Sleeping Vishnu temple at Budhanilkantha or return to the Kathmandu hub.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Sundarijal to Mulkharka hike start?+
It starts at Sundarijal, at the north-eastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, about an hour by taxi or local bus from the city. The trail climbs from the Sundarijal gate of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.
How long is the Sundarijal to Mulkharka hike?+
It is a steady uphill walk of about 2 to 3 hours, climbing roughly 500 m on stone steps and forest trail. Mulkharka, a Tamang village, sits at about 1,800 m and makes a natural rest or lunch stop.
What do you see on the way?+
The trail passes the small Sundarijal waterfall and the dam and pipelines of Kathmandu's water supply reservoir, then climbs through Shivapuri forest with widening views back over the valley to Mulkharka village.
Is this hike suitable for beginners?+
Yes, with a reasonable level of fitness. The climb is steady rather than technical, mostly on stone steps and clear paths, and is one of the most popular introductory hikes around Kathmandu.
