Chandragiri Hills | Kathmandu

Chandragiri Hills is a high-altitude destination located on the southwestern rim of the Kathmandu Valley. At an elevation of 2,551 meters, it is a primary site for panoramic views of the Himalayan range, stretching from Annapurna to Everest.

Visual Characteristics

The landscape is dominated by the Chandragiri Hills Cable Car, a 2.5-kilometer gondola system that ascends from the base station in Thankot. The top station features the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, designed in a multi-tiered pagoda style. The architecture includes a modern viewpoint tower, a luxury resort with neoclassical elements, and manicured walking paths that cut through the sub-tropical forest.

Location & Access Logistics

The base station is situated in Thankot, approximately 12 kilometers from central Kathmandu.

Cable Car: The ride takes approximately 9 to 12 minutes. Operating hours are 08:00–18:00 (base station) and 09:00–18:00 (top station).

Transport: Taxis or private vehicles from Thamel take 45–60 minutes. Local buses run from Ratna Park or Kalanki to Thankot.

Tickets: Tiered pricing applies for Nepali citizens, SAARC nationals, and international tourists. Online booking is available.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The hill holds historical significance as the vantage point from which King Prithvi Narayan Shah first viewed the Kathmandu Valley before his unification campaign in the 18th century. Ecologically, the hills are part of the Mahabharat range, covered in dense forests of oak and rhododendron. It serves as a vital green lung for the valley and a habitat for various bird species.

Key Highlights & Activities

Himalayan Views: Clear-day visibility of peaks including Everest, Jugal, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu.

Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple: A significant Hindu pilgrimage site where a portion of Sati Devi's body is believed to have fallen.

View Tower: A specialized observation deck equipped with binoculars.

Children’s Park: Features a playground and small climbing walls near the summit.

Resort & Spa: High-end accommodation for overnight stays above the clouds.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The top station is highly developed with international-standard amenities:

Dining: Multiple food courts, a fine-dining restaurant, and a bar.

Facilities: Clean public restrooms, an ATM, and conference halls.

Connectivity: 4G/5G cellular signals are robust; Wi-Fi is available in the resort area.

Accessibility: The cable car and main summit paths are wheelchair accessible.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal window is October to December and March to April for clear skies and peak visibility. Early morning (08:30–10:30) is recommended to avoid the afternoon haze and the larger crowds of local tourists on Saturdays. During winter, the hill occasionally receives light snowfall.

Facts & Legends

According to the Swasthani Brata Katha, the site is where the forehead of Sati Devi fell as Lord Shiva carried her remains. A logistical fact: the cable car system was built by the Austrian company Doppelmayr, utilizing 38 gondolas that can transport up to 1,000 people per hour.

Nearby Landmarks

Thankot Park: 1.0km from base station

Matatirtha Temple: 3.5km East

Tribhuvan Park: 2.0km Northeast

Chitlang Village: 5.0km South (accessible via hiking trail)

Kulekhani Reservoir: 25km South (driving distance)