Thing to do
Thamel
Kathmandu's traveller quarter, a maze of narrow lanes packed with trekking shops, guesthouses, restaurants and live music bars just north of the old city.
Chandragiri Hills Cable Car
A cable car ride from the valley floor to Chandragiri hilltop at 2,551 metres, with a viewing tower, a Shiva temple and panoramic views of the Himalaya.
At a glance
- Type
- Cable car and hilltop viewpoint
- Area
- Chandragiri, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Official site
- chandragirihills.com
Good to know
- Cable car
- View tower with telescopes
- Temple
- Restaurants
- Adventure park
Why we recommend it
Chandragiri Hills is a hilltop leisure resort above Kathmandu, reached by a cable car that climbs from around 1,550 metres to a top station at 2,551 metres in roughly 9 to 13 minutes. It offers a view over the whole valley and the mountains beyond within a short trip of the city.
At the top, the main draw is the 360-degree panorama. On a clear day the operator names Everest, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Gaurishankar among the peaks on view, with Kathmandu city, villages and rolling hills spread out below. A viewing tower and observatory has telescopes to pick out the summits. The hilltop is also home to the Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple, a Shiva shrine. According to texts cited by the operator, the deity appeared where the forehead of the goddess Sati fell, and devotees believe a wish is granted to each person who pays homage. The site also has a place in Nepal's history: Prithvi Narayan Shah is said to have first looked down on Kathmandu from here and resolved to conquer it. Local folklore adds that farmers who climbed to the temple in the driest season were caught by heavy rain before they reached home.
The resort has a wide range of other attractions, which is why it suits families. There are zip lines, swings, a climbing wall, a free-fall ride, horse riding, sky cycling and a skywalk, as well as an amphitheatre that hosts performances and events. Restaurants, food courts, cafes and a bar cover meals, and a resort hotel with a spa and a heated outdoor jacuzzi allows an overnight stay if you want to see sunrise over the mountains. For walkers, the operator publishes a hiking route from Champadevi to Chandragiri along the hills.
Tickets for the cable car can be bought online through the operator's ticketing site, and reservations can also be made by phone.
Chandragiri is also part of a longer trip idea from the Nepal Tourism Board that continues to Chitlang and Kulekhani, for those with a car and more time. For a simple outing, take a taxi from central Kathmandu to the base station, ride up, and spend a few hours at the top.
Chandragiri Hills Cable Car FAQs
How long is the cable car ride?
About 9 to 13 minutes from the base station at around 1,550 metres to the top at 2,551 metres.
What can you see from the top?
A 360-degree view over the Kathmandu Valley and, on clear days, peaks including Everest, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Gaurishankar.
Is there a temple at the top?
Yes. The Bhaleshwor Mahadev temple, dedicated to Shiva, is on the hilltop.
Can I buy tickets online?
Yes. The operator sells cable car tickets online and takes reservations by phone.
Is it good for children?
It has plenty for them. There are zip lines, swings, a climbing wall, horse riding and other activities.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes. There is a resort hotel at the top with a spa and heated jacuzzi.
Are there places to eat?
Yes. There are restaurants, food courts, cafes and a bar at the top.
How do I contact Chandragiri Hills?
Call +977 1 5970796 or email [email protected].