Nagarjun:The Northeast Hilltop

Nagarjun Hill (2128 meters) is 10 kilometers north-west of Kathmandu. One of the famous hilltops for short hiking and rock climbing, Nagarjun is also home to Osho Tapoban, an international commune and a forest retreat established in 1990 for Osho lovers. It is also one of the hilltops which is much loved by cyclists around the valley and tourists who love exploring the city on their two wheelers. Nagarjun is just right for people who want to hike around Katmandu valley but have restricted time and budget. [break]





Bare essentials

A day bag

Water bottle

Sunglasses

Sun-block cream

Hat/cap

Reasonable walking shoes

Light warm jacket

Windcheater

Light snacks

An extra pair of clothes



Hike level

This is an easy to moderate hike, though it can be a little difficult at some points. The hike is fit for all age groups but children and elderly are recommended to be more careful during the downward walk as the slope is very steep.

Getting there

You can board a public bus from Old Buspark up to Macchagate or Balaju bypass. From there, it takes a 15 minute walk to reach the Nagarjun entrance gate.

If you choose to take a private vehicle, you don’t have to make any stops. From the Nagarjun gate, it takes around two hours to reach the top of Nagarjun hill. The downhill walk on your way back will take only one hour. The trail also passes through Raniban (Queen of Forest) and it is a part of Shivapuri National Park.



Highlights

Hiking to Nagarjun hill from Kathmandu is perfect for people who love to travel around the capital but have very less time to spare. The interesting feature of this trail is that you will be hiking under a pleasant tree cover until you reach the summit, so strong sun won’t be hovering above you throughout the trail.



Nagarjun is also popular for cultural encounter of both Hindu and Buddhist practices. The popular Jamacho monastery is also a main attraction of the trail. The monastery organizes a huge celebration on Buddha Purnima, a day dedicated to Lord Buddha. Local people and Buddhist monks come together to participate in the celebration, which is also known as Jamacho Jatra. Nagarjun hill is also regarded as a sacred site by Hindu devotes as an abode to Lord Shiva.



Throughout the trail, you will see rectangular prayer flags hanging from the high trees. These flags are said to fulfill one’s wishes and the prayers are supposed to be revered if one hangs these flags as high as possible.



From the summit of Nagarjun hill, you will have a spectacular view of Kathmandu Valley and mountains on the northern side such as Jugal, Ganesh and Langtang region Himalayas.



Weather

The weather is warm at this time of year but it is wise to equip yourself for the windy chills at the hilltop.



Information courtesy

socialtours, Tridevi Marg, Thamel

For details: call 4412508, or email at info@socialtours.com

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