Duration
1 Day
Sundarijal Day Hiking
Trip Grade
Easy
Group Size
1-16 People
Max Altitude
1,650m. / 5,413ft.
Best Season
Feb-May/ Aug- Nov
Activity
Hiking
Transportation
Private Vehicle
Trip Customization
On request (click here)
Highlights of Sundarijal Day Hiking
- Hike to Sundarijal provides picturesque hiking tracks in Shivapuri national park.
- See Buddhanilkantha Temple’s giant reclining Vishnu statue.
- Tour NagiGompa Buddhist monastery and colorful prayer flags.
- See Sundarijal waterfall, reservoir and old hydropower plant.
- Broad outlook of Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks.
- Great biodiversity: forest birds, monkeys and blooming rhododendrons.
- Simple one-day walk, ideal on a beginner and family scale.
Trip Introduction
Sundarijal Day Hiking is a refreshing one-day hike that offers a perfect escape from Kathmandu’s bustling city life into the lush green hills of Shivapuri National Park. For travelers staying in Kathmandu, Himalayan Adventure Treks provides this guided tour, which begins with a scenic drive along the winding roads toward the Sundarijal area.Sundarijal itself (literally meaning beautiful water) is approximately 15 km northeast of Kathmandu.
It is known for its scenic landscape, large reservoir, and clear mountain streams.The route to Sundarijal passes through several culturally significant locations.At Buddhanilkantha Temple, also called Jal Narayan, a huge reclining stone image of Lord Vishnu can be seen. The path then ascends into thick forest in the Shivapuri National Park (a reserve in Kathmandu Valley).
Along the way, the trail passes through large pine and oak trees and bright rhododendron shrubs.Tropical birds, occasional wildlife sightings, and macaque monkeys can be seen in the forest.
In the afternoon you get to Sundarijal waterfall and the old hydropower plant that had been constructed in the years 1934 during the Rana period. It is one of the oldest hydropower plants in Nepal, which shows how the water resources of Sundarijal played an important role in the history of Kathmandu. We will have a brief rest at the reservoir and have scenic panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley below.
Our professional guide tells tales of the Hindu goddess Sundarimai (upon whom Sundarijal is named) and other local tales. This day tour is a real revelation of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. All in all, the hike entails approximately 10-12 km round trip and 900 meters of ascending altitude. It can be used by both beginners and experienced hikers.
Himalayan Adventure Treks takes care of the local permits and transportation and you need only enjoy the scenery. The Sundarijal Day Hiking usually takes about 7–8 hours including breaks. It is preferably performed during spring or fall when the weather is clear. At the end of the day around afternoon you come back to Kathmandu with the refreshing experience of the adventure of the day and with the new insight of the natural beauty of Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary of Sundarijal Day Hiking
Day 01: Hike to Sundarijal via Buddhanilkantha Temple and Nagi Gompa
Our guests sharing their experiences (Photo/Video Gallery)
Detail itinerary of Sundarijal Day Hiking
01
Day 01: Hike to Sundarijal via Buddhanilkantha Temple and Nagi Gompa
In the morning we will meet you in your Kathmandu hotel, and make a forty five minute drive to the Buddhanilkantha, on the north side of the valley. Our first destination will be the Buddhanilkantha Temple or Jal Narayan Temple, a reclining statue of Lord Vishnu that has a large size and rests on a water pond. We will give time to discover the temple grounds and know about its religious significance.
We will visit Shivapuri national park after the visit and start the hiking trail with a stone trail which progressively climbs through pine forests and oak forests. It has a very quiet trail that is shaded and the walk is very comfortable and pleasant. As we proceed up the mountain, we will have clean mountain air and serene natural environment.
Our journey will then ascend steadily to NagiGompa, approximately 2,300 meters. This Buddhist nunnery is located in a forest setting and has nice views of the valley. We will have here a lunch, and have a rest, without disturbing the quiet of the monastery.
After lunch, we will hike to the Tarebhir perspective where we will view panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and the nearby hills. During clear days, one is also able to see distant mountains as well. We will then start to descend to Sundarijal after spending some time at the point of view.
On our way down, we will see little waterfalls, jungle paths and the Tamang villages. By midafternoon, we will reach Sundarijal, which has natural water sources and beautiful waterfalls. We will then spend some time relaxing and taking photographs after which we will drive back Kathmandu in a private vehicle and reach your hotel by late afternoon.
Activity: Moderate hike with cultural sightseeing, 7–8 hours (including breaks)
Max. Altitude: 2,300m/7,546ft. NagiGompa area, Shivapuri National Park
Meal: Breakfast, packed lunch
Note:
If you have your own private group and want to make your trip private, we can run the custom trip all the day as per your requirements and group size.
Includes and Excludes
What are included with package?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off by private vehicle: You will be picked up from and dropped off at your hotel in a private vehicle, ensuring comfort and convenience during transfers.
- National park fee: The entrance fee for the national park, required for accessing protected areas or reserves during the tour, is included in the package.
- Professional guide and driver: A professional guide and experienced driver will accompany you, ensuring a knowledgeable and smooth journey throughout the tour.
What are not included with package?
- Beverage drinks: Any drinks such as soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, or hot beverages (like coffee or tea) that are not part of the pre-arranged meals are not included in the package. You will need to cover the cost of these drinks personally.
- Foods: Meals outside the scheduled ones, like snacks or extra dishes beyond what is included in the tour package, are not covered. If you want additional meals or snacks, you will need to pay for them separately.
Pick Your Suitable Date
US$ 100
Book a Private Trip
Private & Group Discount Price
-
1 -
1 personUS$ 150
-
2 -
2 peopleUS$ 100
-
3 -
5 peopleUS$ 80
-
6 -
10 peopleUS$ 70
-
11 + people
9999
US$ 60
1 Travelers x US $ 2000
Total Cost:
US$ 150
Route Map & Altitude Chart
Kathmandu Hotel
Start/End point
Kathmandu Hotel
Trip Information
Weather and Best Season for Sundarijal Day Hiking
The weather plays an important role in making your Sundarijal Day Hiking comfortable and enjoyable. Kathmandu Valley has four main seasons, and the altitude of the Sundarijal hiking trail ranges from about 1,350 meters to 2,300 meters. Because of this moderate elevation the hike is doable for most of the year but some seasons are definitely better than others.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the best seasons for Sundarijal Day Hiking. During this period the weather is generally clear and mild with daytime temperatures varying between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius.
The forest is particularly beautiful in the spring when rhododendrons and other wildflowers bloom along the trail. From September to November, another great season is autumn. The skies are generally clear in the weeks and months after the monsoon and views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant mountains are at its best.
The monsoon season between June and August brings on heavy rainfalls, slippery trails and less views, so it is usually not advised. Winter, from December to February, is dry and quiet, and temperatures are cool during the day and cold in the morning. If hiking in winter, warm clothes are needed. Overall, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for Sundarijal Day Hiking.
Food and Drink
During Sundarijal Day Hiking, simple and nourishing meals are provided to keep you comfortable and energized throughout the day. The trip provides breakfast and one packed lunch. Breakfast is generally consumed in Kathmandu before the departure, so that you have enough energy to begin the hike.
For lunch, we offer a traditional Nepali packed meal which usually consists of rice, lentils, seasonal vegetables and mild curry. This type of food is filling and is good for hiking. Vegetarian meals can be easily acquired and arranged beforehand by request. If you have any special dietary needs it is useful to let us know in advance of the trip.
Drinking water is extremely important during the hike. Bottled drinking water is provided, you should also only carry an additional bottle of water with a capacity of one to two liters. You can also bring along light snacks like fruits or energy bars for small breaks along the trail. There are small shops available near Sundarijal village where water and snacks are available if required.
After completing the Sundarijal Day Hiking, many travelers enjoy having a hot drink or local snack once they return to Kathmandu, which is a pleasant way to end the day.
Altitude Sickness and Safety
Altitude sickness is a common concern for many travelers, but the risk during Sundarijal Day Hiking is very low. The highest point on this hike is at around 2,300 meters near NagiGompa and Tarebhir view point. Most normal people do not have serious problems at this altitude.
Some hikers may experience some mild symptoms such as mild shortness of breath or a slight headache, especially if they walk too fast. To minimize any discomfort, it is advised to be at least day in Kathmandu before the hike for which you should drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol the night before. Walking at a steady pace and the taking of regular short break is also beneficial in allowing the body to adjust naturally.
Our guide closely monitors the group during the hike. If someone feels unwell the guide will slow down, rest or descend if necessary. Serious altitude sickness is a very rare event on this route, as safety is always at the forefront. It is recommended that travelers with a history of previous altitude related problems should be able to consult a doctor prior to joining.
Overall, Sundarijal Day Hiking is considered safe and suitable for most travelers, including first time hikers, as long as basic precautions are followed.
Visa and Permits
For Sundarijal Day Hiking, visitors must have the correct visa and entry permits before starting the hike. The majority of foreigners visiting will need a Nepal tourist visa which is readily available upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or land border entry points.
It is easy to get a visa and the traveler has to carry along a valid passport with a minimum of six months validity.Visa fees are based on the duration of stay and common lengths of stay include fifteen or thirty days.In addition to the visa, a Shivapuri National Park entry permit is required for Sundarijal Day Hiking, as the trail passes through the protected forest area.
This permit is checked at the park entrance near to Buddhanilkantha. The fee is low and helps to pay for conservation and park maintenance. No other trekking permit is required for this day hike which makes it simpler when compared to longer trek routes of Nepal.
We help you make the arrangements to obtain the national park permit on the day of the hike and the fee can be paid at the entrance. Travelers should bring their passport with them when hiking because park officials might ask to see them. Indian citizens and a few other nationals of the region have different visa arrangements, which in most cases are relatively easier. Overall, the permit process for Sundarijal Day Hiking is simple and hassle free.
Transportation
Transportation for Sundarijal Day Hiking is comfortable and well organized, allowing you to enjoy the trip without stress. On this day, all the transfers will be made by personal vehicle. In the morning, we will pick you in a clean and comfortable car or van from your Kathmandu hotel according to the size of your group.
The drive to Buddhanilkantha, which is the starting point of the hike, takes about forty five minutes under normal traffic conditions. The road is paved and it goes through residential areas before reaching the less busy outskirts of the valley. The earlier one starts, the better to avoid traffic in the city and the more time to take in the hike.
After completing the Sundarijal Day Hiking route and reaching Sundarijal village, the same private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Kathmandu. The return drive is normally around one hour, depending on traffic. You will be dropped off in your hotel in the late afternoon.
Using private transportation makes possible flexibility, safety, and comfort throughout the day. Fuel costs, driver services and vehicle arrangements are taken care of in the trip and you can focus solely on enjoying nature and the hiking experience.
Travel Insurance
Although Sundarijal Day Hiking is a low risk activity, travel insurance is strongly recommended for all participants. Insurance is to have peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected situations like illness, injuries or emergency evacuation.
Your travel insurance policy should cover medical treatment and evacuation in an emergency situation up to at least 3,000 meters, although the hike doesn’t surpass this height. While it is rare that anything will happen seriously on this route, having insurance gives the peace of mind that proper care can be arranged quickly if necessary. Travel rules of Nepal urge visitors to possess valid insurance while engaging in outdoor activities.
Insurance is not included in the cost of Sundarijal Day Hiking and must be purchased before arriving in Nepal. Many international insurance companies sell short term travel policies which are suitable for day hikes and light trekking. It is important to carefully read the details of the policies and make sure that hiking activities are included.
We do not collect insurance documents in advance, but travelers are advised to keep a digital or printed copy with them during the hike. Having proper insurance allows you to enjoy Sundarijal Day Hiking with confidence and comfort.
Health and Safety
Your health and safety are very important during Sundarijal Day Hiking, and a few simple precautions help ensure a pleasant experience. Before being a part of the hike it is recommended that you are in normal good health and comfortable walking for several hours on forest trails and stone steps. No special medical preparation is needed, although basic fitness is helpful.
During the hike it is important to drink the right amount of water to stay hydrated especially in the warmer months. We have bottled drinking water and you must not drink the streams. It is advisable to wear the appropriate hiking shoes with a good grip because some sections of the route are steep or uneven. Suncream, light clothes and a hat can prevent the sun and temperature variations.
If you have any existing medical conditions including asthma, heart problems or diabetes, please bring your regular drugs and let the guide know before you start the hike. Our guides are equipped with a basic first aid kit and trained in how to address common hiking related issues.
If you feel unwell at any point during Sundarijal Day Hiking, such as dizziness or unusual fatigue, you should inform the guide immediately. Taking slow steps and listening to the guide makes the hiking activity safe and enjoyable to all.
Your Extra Expenses
The cost of Sundarijal Day Hiking covers most essential services, but there are a few personal expenses that you should plan for. Extra expenses are generally minimal but the possession of some local currency makes the day more comfortable.
You may please buy some more bottled water, tea, coffee or light snacks from small shops near Sundarijal village. These things do not come within the package price. Some travelers also choose to buy some souvenirs like a prayer flag or postcards or handicrafts in Kathmandu after the hike.
At some temples or cultural sites you may decide to make a small donation which is optional. If you are using public toilets en route, there may be a small charge which can be made, so it is useful to carry small denomination Nepalese rupees.
Tips for guide and driver are not included in the tour priced and entirely optional. Tipping is appreciated if you are satisfied with the service but it is not required. Any personal purchases or unplanned stops are also your own responsibility.
As a general guideline, carrying an extra amount equivalent to twenty to thirty US dollars per person is usually enough to cover these small personal expenses during Sundarijal Day Hiking.
Language and Communication
Communication during Sundarijal Day Hiking is generally easy and comfortable for international travelers. Nepali is the national language of Nepal, however English is widely spoken in the tourism industry. All our guides have clear and fluent English speaking skills and are willing to clarify local culture, nature and details of the trail throughout the hike.
In villages along the route local people tend to speak Nepali or Tamang language. While English may be limited amongst villagers, they are friendly and welcoming. A simple greeting like Namaste is always appreciated and often returned with a smile.
Mobile phone service is good in Kathmandu and surrounding Buddhanilkantha, however mobile service may be weak or unavailable in the deeper forest regions surrounding the Shivapuri National Park. There is no Wi-Fi access on the trail. If you need mobile data, local SIM cards are easily available in Kathmandu at a reasonable cost.
Before and after Sundarijal Day Hiking, internet access and communication services are easily available in Kathmandu hotels and cafes. With an English speaking guide along with you, communication during the hike goes smoothly and stress free.
Don’ts on This Trip
To ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience during Sundarijal Day Hiking, travelers are asked to follow a few important guidelines. These simple practices help protect nature, respect local culture and help keep everyone safe along the trail.
Do not leave any garbage on the trail or in the forest. All waste should be carried back with you until it is available for the proper disposal. Feeding or disturbing wildlife such as monkeys and birds is to be avoided because it can have a harmful effect on animals and cause safety problems. It is not advisable to smoke and have some alcoholic drinks during the hike especially when around religious places and within the forests.
Do not go outside of the designated path because this may be risky and may ruin nature. Visiting temples or monasteries, do not wear revealing clothes, take off your shoes where it is necessary. Noise should not be made in religious places since it is a place of prayer and meditation.
It is not allowed to fly drones without approval and travelers should obey the guide. By respecting these simple rules, Sundarijal Day Hiking remains a positive experience for visitors and local communities alike.
Trip Extension
Because Sundarijal is located close to Kathmandu, there are many options to extend your journey after completing Sundarijal Day Hiking.This area is a gateway to a few popular trekking and sightseeing routes, making this area perfect for more adventurous travelers who want to explore more of Nepal.
From Sundarijal, you can go further for multi days trek towards Chisapani, Nagarkot or Helambu region. These routes provide beautiful views of the mountains, traditional villages and quiet trails through the forest. For people with a limited time, a combination of the hike with cultural sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley is also a great option. Visits to Bhaktapur, Patan or major temples and heritage sites can be made without much difficulty.
Adventure lovers might also prefer to include activities such as river rafting, wildlife tours or short trip to Pokhara or Chitwan. These destinations provide a different experience and complement the gentle nature walk of Sundarijal Day Hiking.
In case you want to do more, we would be happy to design a tailor-made program to suit your time, interests and travel quality.
Photography and Drone Rules
Sundarijal Day Hiking offers many opportunities for photography, from forest landscapes to temples, monasteries, and valley viewpoints. Tourists are encouraged to capture shots of nature and places of cultural attraction in the trail. It is nice by asking permission before taking pictures of the local people.
Cameras and mobile phones should be used with care on narrow or steep sections of the trail. During the rainy season, it is recommended to protect electronic devices from moisture. Flash photography should not be used near wildlife or during a religious ceremony.
The use of drones in Nepal is strictly controlled, especially in the parks and the areas around religious places. Flight of Drone at the Shivapuri National Park, or at or near the Buddhanilkantha Temple should not be conducted without prior permission. Unlicensed flying of drones can lead to fines or seizure of equipment.
By following these rules, travelers can capture beautiful memories of Sundarijal Day Hiking while respecting local laws, nature, and cultural traditions.
Major Attractions
Sundarijal Day Hiking offers a rich combination of cultural, natural, and scenic attractions, making it one of the most rewarding short hikes near Kathmandu. The trip starts with Buddhanilkantha Temple or Jal Narayan Temple. This is a holy Hindu location where there is a big stone image of Lord Vishnu sleeping in a water pond. The temple is an attraction to the pilgrims and visitors and offers a serene spiritual beginning of the hike.
Leaving Buddhanilkantha, the road leads to Shivapuri National Park, a preserved forest area that is also known to have fresh air and various flora and tranquil walking paths. As you hike uphill, you go through thick pine and oak forest and it is particularly nice in spring when flowers are in blossom and the birds are at work.
One of the main highlights of Sundarijal Day Hiking is NagiGompa, a Buddhist monastery located on a forested ridge. This monastery is a peaceful place with a stunning scenery of Kathmandu Valley. Moving on, the Tarebhir perspective offers extensive panoramic shots of the valley and the hills located near the area, and on a clear day, one can see distant Himalayan mountains, as well.
Essential Packing Gear for Sundarijal Day Hiking
If you have decided to go on a day Hike trip in Nepal, we assure you that you will have a fantastic time ahead. But what should you pack? What will be the right gear to make your trip more fabulous? To help you with this, we have compiled a packing list of essential items that you mustn’t forget to bring along.
- Cash
- A 30 L Daypack that has room for your essentials, such as camera, clothing, water bottle, jacket, raincoat, etc, which will be carried by you
- Protective transport cover for a backpack or travel bag
- Hiking Boots: Preferably ankle-high boots to prevent ankle sprain
- Quick-drying shirts made of synthetic fabrics
- Warm and cool vests or T-shirts
- Sports Bra for Female Trekker
- Hiking shorts
- Sun hat, and sunglasses with 100% UV protection (for hiking trips, even with stray light and nose protection)
- Sunscreen lipstick with a high SPF (at least 20, for a hike trip, or at least 30, or sunblock)
- Drinking bottled water
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Camera with sufficient memory cards and spare batteries, or a battery charger
- Toilet paper
- Map
- Binoculars
Equipment Note:
- Plus, we will also gift you a company logo T-shirt as a token of your Hiking experience in Nepal with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sundarijal Day Hiking?
Sundarijal Day Hiking is a one-day trek from Kathmandu through Shivapuri National Park to Sundarijal waterfall. You visit Buddhanilkantha Temple and NagiGompa, enjoying forest trails and valley views.
How difficult is the hike and how long does it take?
This is an easy-to-moderate 10–12 km hike (about 5–6 hours walking). Including the round-trip drive from Kathmandu, the full-day trip takes roughly 7–8 hours.
What is the distance and elevation gain?
About 10–12 km round-trip. You start at 1,350 m (Kathmandu) and climb to 2,300 m (Tarebhir viewpoint), for roughly 950 m of elevation gain.
Are meals provided during the hike?
Yes. The tour includes breakfast and a packed Nepali-style lunch. Drinking water is provided. You can carry extra snacks or purchase drinks (tea, etc.) as needed.
What am I supposed to carry on this hike?
Carry light hiking shoes, dress in layers, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Keep a daypack, refillable water bottle, snacks, rain clothing and personal medications.
Is this increase appropriate to children or beginners?
Yes. The path is not steep or fast and is of good condition, which is why it is friendly to novices and energetic children. Guides made the group walking pace comfortable. This one-day hike can be enjoyed by fit families.
How do I reach the starting point of the hike?
We pick you up from your Kathmandu hotel (about a 45-minute drive to Buddhanilkantha Temple, our trailhead). Alternatively, you can take a taxi or local bus to Buddhanilkantha and meet us there.
Is transportation from Kathmandu included?
Yes. Round-trip transport is included. A private vehicle and driver will pick you up from your hotel in the morning and return you after the hike.
Do I need a guide or can I hike independently?
We have a local guide who is experienced. The guide manages permits and navigation and provides local insights. Solo hiking is possible, though a guide provides added safety and convenience.
Will I have cellphone or internet access on the trail?
Cell coverage exists near Kathmandu and Buddhanilkantha, but may fade deeper in the forest. There is no Wi-Fi on the trail. Internet is available at hotels and cafes in Kathmandu before and after the hike.
What nature or animals will I see on the hike?
You will walk through the shaded woods of oak and pine and rhododendron in blossom. There are high chances that you will watch rhesus macaque monkeys and numerous species of Himalayan birds.
Are there restroom facilities along the trail?
Toilets are available at Buddhanilkantha Temple and in Sundarijal village. There are no toilets on the mountain trail. It’s best to use facilities before the hike and carry tissue or wipes, since options are limited.
What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of any heavy rain or storms, we may postpone or cut short the hike. Light rain can be handled easily with the right equipment, but leaves trails slippery. Spring and autumn are the seasons that are usually favorable to hiking.
What are some of the cultural expectations on this trip?
Adhere to the local culture: take off shoes when entering temples and wear modest clothes in places of worship. Shake hands with Namaste and seek permission before taking photos. Do not litter or misbehave on the trail.
Is it possible to make this hike a multi-day hike?
Yes. Sundarajal is the beginning of treks such as Helambu or Langtang, so you could extend to those regions after this hike. This trip may also be combined with other tours or activities in Kathmandu. You can also contact us to have extensions.
Are there any restrictions on photography or flying drones?
Photography with cameras or phones is fine (be respectful). Drones are not permitted in Shivapuri National Park or near temples without special permits. Unlicensed drone use can result in fines.
Should I tip the guide or driver?
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A common tip is about USD 5–10 per person for the guide (and a similar amount for the driver). You can give tips in cash at the end of the hike if you wish.
Is travel insurance required or handled for this trip?
Travel insurance is not included. You must have your own insurance covering medical expenses and evacuation (at least up to 3,000 m). This is required for park permits. Purchase insurance before you travel.
How do I book Sundarijal Day Hiking?
You can reserve by visiting the Himalayan Adventure Treks site or by calling us (email/phone). We will verify availability and payment instructions. After booking, we do all the permits and logistics.
Is there water to drink on the hike?
Yes. Bottled water will be available during the hike and in case you want to refill your bottle, you can do so in Sundarijal village. It is also important to remain well hydrated.
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