Shivapuri Circuit Hike
Duration
Group size
Sundarijal ➔ Nagi Gumba ➔ Tarebhir ➔ Sundarijal
Positioned along the southern slopes of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, the Sundarijal to Tarebhir hike provides a wonderful single-day escape into pristine mountain nature. Our circuit begins among the rushing waterfalls and stone steps of Sundarijal before branching west onto tranquil forest pathways. This journey connects spiritual sanctuaries, dramatic cliffside ridges, and traditional Tamang settlements, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the natural and cultural beauty surrounding the Kathmandu Valley.
The terrain presents a varied mix of stone stairs, soft dirt forest trails, and open cliffside tracks. As we ascend beyond the initial waterfalls, the path weaves through thick woods of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The shade of the dense canopy keeps the air cool and crisp, accompanied by the songs of resident woodland birds. Reaching the high monastery of Nagi Gumba provides a peaceful interlude where spiritual serenity meets panoramic views of the valley basin.
Traversing from Nagi Gumba toward the cliffside hamlet of Tarebhir introduces a thrilling open ridgeline section. Walking along these high cliff edges rewards us with uninterrupted perspectives of the countryside below and distant Himalayan silhouettes on clear days. Descending through terraced farmlands back to Sundarijal completes a balanced loop that combines physical exertion with rich visual rewards.
Our guide meets you in the lobby of your Kathmandu hotel for a quick introduction and gear check. A private vehicle then transports us northeast toward the outskirts of the city.
The drive ends at the entrance gates of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Once park permits are verified at the army checkpoint, we prepare our daypacks and begin the trek near the river banks.
Footwork begins on a series of stone steps along the water pipeline before branching west onto a quiet woodland trail. Pine needles carpet the dirt path as we climb under the shade of dense oak trees, enjoying the fresh, cool breeze and bird calls of the national park.
Situated high on a wooded ridge, this tranquil Buddhist nunnery provides a welcome rest stop. You can walk around the quiet grounds, spin prayer wheels, and gaze across the wide expanse of the Kathmandu Valley spread out below.
Leaving the monastery behind, our route contours along the cliffside trail toward the Tamang hamlet of Tarebhir. The path offers incredible open drop-off views on one side and lush forested slopes on the other.
Perched atop dramatic stone cliffs at 2,100 meters, Tarebhir gives us an ideal setting for a wholesome lunch. Local tea houses provide warm refreshments while we relax and take in the panoramic mountain and valley views.
Our journey continues along a winding downward path through terraced fields and peaceful Tamang farmland. As the trail meets the lower forest canopy, the gentle decline makes for pleasant walking back toward the Sundarijal watershed.
We complete our trail circuit at the Sundarijal bus park. A brief pause lets everyone rest tired feet while our private driver prepares the vehicle for the drive back into town.
Private transportation delivers you safely back to your accommodation. You end the day with a refreshed mind and fond memories of the hills.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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