Overview

The Chandragiri-Dakshinkali Hike is a great one-day hike right outside Kathmandu Valley. The hike takes you away from the bustling city and takes you to the quiet and lush forests of Chandragiri Hill. The top of the hill offers you a great view of Langtang, Everest, and Jugal Mountain Ranges on a clear day. You also get to visit one of the most famous temples of Nepal, Dakshinkali on your trek down. The Chandragiri-Dakshinkali hike is a specially designed package that caters to people with limited time but still want to experience the forest, hills, and view of the mountains of Nepal.

The hike starts with a drive from your hotel to Thankot. From the Chandragiri Cable Car Station, you start hiking uphill to the top of Chandragiri Hill. It edges at the southeastern part of the capital and has an elevation of 2500m. According to the myth, the hill was once rich in Chandan (sandalwood) and goddess Parvati used to roam around the foothills to look for it. Thus, the location carries a great cultural significance.

There is a ropeway that takes you all the way up to the summit of Chandragiri Temple. From the top of the hill, you can witness the amazing view of Kathmandu Valley and the distant view of the mountain range. Afterwards, you start walking downhill through another route to Dakshinkali. Dakshinkali is another sacred Hindu Temple (of goddess Kali) that is located about 20 km far from the hills of Chandragiri.

Dakshinkali is one of the best places for hikers as it leads gradually up toward the northern ridge through dense pine forests. Hikers will most likely come across two caves one called Asura Cave and Yanglesho Cave. These types of hikes are specially designed for those who are looking for an easy vacation getaway, that does not require you to be super fit, young, and experienced (i.e. suitable for the whole family).

Eternal Himalaya has been one of the marquee names in the Nepali tourism industry. We cater to your needs for safe and comfortable travel journeys. Moreover, we have a number of trips which are easily available at a reasonable price.

Highlights

  • Opportunity to enjoy the longest cable car ride of Nepal, Chandragiri Cable Car
  • Amazing view of mountain range, valley, and surrounding green hills
  • Visit one of the biggest Hindu temples in Nepal, Dakshinkali Temple

Itinerary

Expand AllCollapse All
Day 1:Chandragiri- Dakshinkali Hiking

The trip starts with a private vehicle picking you up from your hotel in Kathmandu. The drive takes you out of Kathmandu Valley into Thankot. The hiking begins from the Chandragiri Cable Car station. From there a local guide will lead your hike up towards top of the hill. The trail is uphill and goes through off road route through the lush forest of Chandragiri hills enjoying the view of cable car. Chandragiri-subtropical forest is also home to different exotic species like barking deer, jackals, red cats, Red-vented bul-bul and turtle dove. After reaching the hill top, take some time to walk around and visit the temple. On a clear day, one can even get distant panoramic view of Langtang, Jugal, and Everest Mountain Ranges. You can enjoy surreal view of the surrounding hills and Kathmandu Valley. You will then move towards Dakshinkali via Champadevi trail. The hike will take you through the luscious forest of Champadevi, which takes around 5-6 hours approximately. The temple of Dakshinkali is one of the most famous temples of Nepal. It is dedicated to Kali, wife of Lord Shiva. Later on, after completing the trip a private transportation will take you back to your hotel in Kathmandu.

    Cost Details

    Private transportation to day hike starting and ending to Kathmandu

    lunch during the hike

    English Speaking tour guide

    Heritage entrance fees

    Any personal expenses