Sundarijal Hike – A Scenic Nature Escape Near Kathmandu
Description
The Sundarijal Hike is one of the most popular and accessible day hikes near Kathmandu, offering a perfect combination of waterfalls, lush forests, rivers, and mountain scenery. Located on the northeastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, Sundarijal serves as one of the main entrances to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, making it a favorite destination for both locals and international travelers.
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate – Suitable for beginners and anyone with average fitness.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons and pleasant temperatures.
- Autumn (September–November): Clear mountain views and ideal hiking weather.
- Monsoon (June–August): Waterfalls are at their most spectacular, though trails can be muddy.
- Winter (December–February): Cool temperatures with fewer crowds.
Highlights
Highlights
- Hike through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.
- Enjoy beautiful waterfalls, streams, and forest trails.
- Visit the historic Sundarijal Hydropower area.
- Experience peaceful pine, oak, and rhododendron forests.
- Pass through traditional Tamang settlements such as Mulkharka.
- Excellent for beginners, families, photographers, and nature lovers.
Snapshot
Address
Shivapuri, Nuwakot, Bagamati Province, Nepal
Shivapuri, Nuwakot, Bagamati Province, Nepal
Group Size
1-6
Duration
4–6 hours (round trip)
Live Tour Guide
English
Experience Details
Itinerary
The adventure begins with a 45–60 minute drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. The trail starts by passing through the historic Sundarijal Hydropower Station before climbing alongside stone stairways, flowing streams, and beautiful waterfalls. As you enter the national park, the surroundings transform into dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, creating a peaceful environment filled with birdsong and fresh mountain air.
Depending on your fitness level and preferred route, the hike can be a leisurely walk through the lower forest trails or continue deeper into the national park toward Mulkharka or even Shivapuri Peak. Most visitors choose the classic Sundarijal day hike, which offers spectacular natural scenery without requiring a strenuous full-day climb.
Along the way, you'll cross small bridges, pass traditional Tamang villages, and enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. During spring, colorful rhododendrons bloom throughout the forest, while autumn provides crystal-clear skies and pleasant hiking conditions.
Whether you're a first-time hiker, a family looking for an outdoor adventure, or a photographer searching for scenic landscapes, the Sundarijal Hike is an excellent choice for a refreshing getaway close to Kathmandu.
Hour-by-Hour Itinerary
7:30 AM – Hotel Pick-up
Meet your guide and drive to Sundarijal, enjoying views of the Kathmandu Valley along the way.
8:30 AM – Arrive at Sundarijal & Begin the Hike
Enter Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and begin hiking through the hydropower area, waterfalls, and forest trails.
10:00 AM – Reach Mulkharka Village
Take a short break in the traditional Tamang village, enjoy refreshments, and admire the surrounding landscapes.
10:30 AM – Continue Exploring the Forest
Walk through peaceful woodland trails, cross streams, and enjoy panoramic viewpoints before turning back.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a packed lunch or snacks in a scenic resting area surrounded by nature.
12:30 PM – Begin the Descent
Return to Sundarijal along the same picturesque trail.
2:00 PM – Arrive Back at Sundarijal
Relax after the hike and prepare for the return journey.
2:30 PM – Drive Back to Kathmandu
3:30 PM – Hotel Drop-off
Arrive back in Kathmandu with wonderful memories of one of the valley's most beautiful nature hikes.
Depending on your fitness level and preferred route, the hike can be a leisurely walk through the lower forest trails or continue deeper into the national park toward Mulkharka or even Shivapuri Peak. Most visitors choose the classic Sundarijal day hike, which offers spectacular natural scenery without requiring a strenuous full-day climb.
Along the way, you'll cross small bridges, pass traditional Tamang villages, and enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. During spring, colorful rhododendrons bloom throughout the forest, while autumn provides crystal-clear skies and pleasant hiking conditions.
Whether you're a first-time hiker, a family looking for an outdoor adventure, or a photographer searching for scenic landscapes, the Sundarijal Hike is an excellent choice for a refreshing getaway close to Kathmandu.
Hour-by-Hour Itinerary
7:30 AM – Hotel Pick-up
Meet your guide and drive to Sundarijal, enjoying views of the Kathmandu Valley along the way.
8:30 AM – Arrive at Sundarijal & Begin the Hike
Enter Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and begin hiking through the hydropower area, waterfalls, and forest trails.
10:00 AM – Reach Mulkharka Village
Take a short break in the traditional Tamang village, enjoy refreshments, and admire the surrounding landscapes.
10:30 AM – Continue Exploring the Forest
Walk through peaceful woodland trails, cross streams, and enjoy panoramic viewpoints before turning back.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a packed lunch or snacks in a scenic resting area surrounded by nature.
12:30 PM – Begin the Descent
Return to Sundarijal along the same picturesque trail.
2:00 PM – Arrive Back at Sundarijal
Relax after the hike and prepare for the return journey.
2:30 PM – Drive Back to Kathmandu
3:30 PM – Hotel Drop-off
Arrive back in Kathmandu with wonderful memories of one of the valley's most beautiful nature hikes.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions
Transportation, Guide
Exclusions
Tips, Personal Expenses
Important Notes
Travel Tips / What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- 1–2 liters of drinking water
- Light snacks or a packed lunch
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hat or cap
- Light jacket or rain jacket (depending on the season)
- Camera or smartphone
Additional Documents
Valid ID (Required for national park entry)
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