Discover the perfect mix of nature, culture, and spirituality with the Chandragiri Cable Car and Monkey Temple Tour. Moreover, this one-day trip from Kathmandu takes you high above the valley for stunning mountain views and deep cultural experiences. First, enjoy a thrilling cable car ride to the peaceful Chandragiri Hills, home to the sacred Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple. Then, continue to Swayambhunath Stupa, the famous Monkey Temple, where ancient heritage and faith come alive. Besides, along the way, you will experience sweeping views of the Himalayas, serene surroundings, and a touch of adventure. Furthermore, this tour is ideal for families and kids, as it is comfortable, relaxing, and hassle-free with minimal walking required. Nonetheless, you may escape the city’s rush and reserve your tour now to enjoy the perfect blend of Himalayan views, cultural heritage, and spiritual moments in Kathmandu Valley.
Explore Chandragiri Hills – Nature and Spirituality Combined
Located southwest of Kathmandu at an elevation of 2,551 meters (8,370 ft), Chandragiri Hills is a perfect retreat from the city. Besides, the main attraction here is the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, a sacred site believed to grant blessings. Moreover, the hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Mount Manaslu. Besides, on clear days, even distant peaks like Mount Everest can be spotted. Additionally, the surrounding greenery and fresh mountain air make this an ideal spot for photography, relaxation, and family enjoyment.
Experience the Thrill of the Cable Car
Your journey begins with a hotel pickup in Kathmandu, followed by a short drive to the Chandragiri Cable Car Base Station. Opened in 2016, the 2.4 km cable car ride provides a 15-minute scenic journey through lush forests and hills. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding mountains. Furthermore, the hilltop features a five-star resort, cozy cafés, and restaurants serving both Nepali and international cuisines, perfect for a relaxing break or an overnight stay.
Visit Swayambhunath – The Iconic Monkey Temple
Next, continue to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu and is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Here, you can explore the ancient stupa with Buddha’s all-seeing eyes, centuries-old shrines and temples, and newer additions like the Tibetan monastery, museum, and library. Moreover, colorful prayer flags, playful monkeys, and scenic viewpoints add to the site’s charm. Additionally, access is convenient either via the long staircase to the main platform or the car road circling the hill, making it easy and family-friendly.
A Perfect Blend of Adventure, Culture, and Serenity
Overall, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a one-day escape that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and spiritual exploration. From the thrill of the cable car to the serene temples and panoramic Himalayan views, every moment is designed to create lasting memories. Additionally, the tour offers flexibility, comfort, and minimal walking, making it perfect for families, seniors, and kids.
Chandragiri Hills
Highlights of Chandragiri Cable Car and Monkey Temple Tour:
1. Scenic 10-minute cable car ride over lush hills
2. Visit the sacred Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple
3. Panoramic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu, and Mt. Everest
4. Guided exploration of Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
5. Private vehicle transfers with comfortable hotel pickup and drop-off
6. Flexible start times with as early as 8, 9, 10 or 11 AM with late start at 12 or 01 PM
7. Family-friendly, relaxing, and minimal walking required
Places You’ll See :
Chandragiri Hill lies on the outskirts towards the south-west of Kathmandu Valley. The hill is 2551 meters above sea level and provides panoramic views of the capital and the Himalayan ranges from Annapurna to Everest.
1Chandragiri Hills
Bhaleshwor Mahadev is a Hindu temple located in Chandragiri hill in south-west side of Kathmandu Valley.
2Bhaleshwor Temple
Swayambhu is an ancient religious complex atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley, west of Kathmandu city.
3Swayambhunath
Travel Itinerary:
09:00 AM: Tour begins from your hotel
The tour begins with a Tour Guide picking you up from your hotel. You can request us to start your trip at 8, 9, 10 or 11 AM with late start at 12 or 01 PM, whichever suits you best.
Your tour begins at the base station of the Chandragiri Cable Car in Chandragiri Municipality. From here, you’ll embark on a 15-minute thrilling gondola ride to the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, located at the hilltop station about 2.4 km away. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan ranges and the entire Kathmandu Valley below.
After spending around 2–3 relaxing hours enjoying the scenery and spiritual atmosphere, you’ll descend on the same scenic cable car ride back to the base station. Your driver will then take you comfortably towards your next destination — the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath).
01:00 PM: The Monkey Temple
After about a 45-minute drive back from Chandragiri Hills, you’ll arrive at the base of Swayambhunath Mahachaitya, more popularly known as the Monkey Temple. Your exploration of Swayambhunath begins with a symbolic coin toss at the ‘pool’ of the Statue of Peace, followed by a gentle ascent through pathways lined with smaller Chaityas and temples.
Believed to be one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, Swayambhunath is said to have been founded by King Vṛsadeva, the great-grandfather of King Mānadeva (464–505 CE), around the early 5th century CE. From the viewpoint atop the Monkey Temple, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley, revealing the layers of its ancient civilization and rich cultural heritage.
02:00 PM: Drop back to your hotel
After an enjoyable tour, we will safely drop you back to your hotel in Kathmandu. The finishing time may vary depending on your chosen start time and how long you wish to spend exploring each site, allowing you to enjoy the tour at your own pace.
F.A.Q
What are the places I will visit during this tour?
The places you will visit during this tour include Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple and Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple.
Note: Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple is listed as UNESCO's World Heritage Site.
What should I bring along for this day tour?
You must bring along your passport, a passport copy, or any other valid ID, along with some cash for lunch or any personal expenses you may wish to cover during the trip.
What should I wear for the tour?
Kathmandu experiences moderately hot summers and cold winters. You may choose any clothing that feels comfortable for the season you are visiting.
Note: There are no clothing restrictions of any kind.
Is pick up and drop off service included?
Yes, we have pickup and drop-off service included in your pay. A private vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu and drop you off at the same hotel after the tour.
What's Included
Bottled Drinking Water
Cable Car Tickets
Monuments Entrance Fee
Pick Up and Drop
Private Vehicle
Tour Guide
What's Excluded
Any Personal Expenses
Gratuities for your Guide
Lunch
Activities
Cable Car Ride
City Tours
Location Map
Why Book With Us?
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