Chandragiri Cable Car Ride & Monkey Temple Tour - Private/Group
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour offers a rare combination of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and spiritual insight—all within a convenient half-day format. The scenic cable car ride to Chandragiri Hills provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Kathmandu Valley, making it one of the few places where you can enjoy such vistas without a long hike. The peaceful hilltop temple adds a serene and spiritual atmosphere to the journey.
What sets this tour further apart is the visit to the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and symbolism. Combined with professional guiding, hotel pickup, and a refreshing lunch box, this tour—offered in group, private, or all-inclusive formats by Relax Getaways—delivers comfort, cultural depth, and unforgettable experiences in just a few hours.
Available options
All Inclusive Option
All Inclusive Private Tour: Private transportation with a guide, flexible start time, all entrance fees included, and a lunch box with soft drinks.<br/>Duration: 5 hours: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.<br/>Route of tour: Hotel → Chandragiri Cable Car Station → Chandragiri Hills → Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) → Hotel<br/>Private Electric Vehicles: Air-conditioned private car, SUV, or van based on group size and preference.<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour
Chandragiri and Monkey Temple: Private transportation with a dedicated guide, flexible start time, personalized experience, and lunch box included.<br/>Duration: 5 hours: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.<br/>Route of tour: Hotel → Chandragiri Cable Car Station → Chandragiri Hills → Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) → Hotel<br/>Private Vehicles: Air-conditioned private car, SUV, or van based on group size and preference.<br/>Pickup included
Group Tour / Shared Tour
Group Tour: Shared AC transportation with a professional guide, fixed 9:00 AM departure, and a lunch box included.<br/>Duration: 5 hours: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.<br/>Route of tour: Hotel → Chandragiri Cable Car Station → Chandragiri Hills → Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) → Hotel<br/>Vehicle type: Air-conditioned private car, van, or minibus (based on group size).<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick up from & drop off at hotel by private vehicle.
English-speaking professional tour guide.
Lunch box: Water (500ml bottled water), Muffin, Donut, Banana, Seasonal Fruit, and Juice.
All-Inclusive Option: Includes Lunch Box, soft drinks, and entrance fees.
Air-conditioned private transportation.
Detailed itinerary
1
Chandragiri Hills is a scenic hilltop destination located on the southwestern outskirts of Kathmandu Valley, approximately 2,500 meters above sea level. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Everest, Annapurna, and Manaslu on clear days. Accessible via a modern cable car ride that lasts around 10–15 minutes, the journey itself is a highlight, soaring over lush forests and offering stunning valley vistas.
At the top, visitors can explore the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva with historical and spiritual significance. The hilltop also features landscaped gardens, a children’s playground, souvenir shops, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Chandragiri Hills is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and family-friendly recreation, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking peaceful ambiance and majestic views away from the city bustle.
2
Swayambhunath Stupa, commonly known as the Monkey Temple, is one of the most iconic and ancient religious sites in Nepal. Perched atop a hill in western Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a 360-degree view of Kathmandu Valley and is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.
Dating back over 2,500 years, the central stupa features a brilliant white dome topped with a gilded spire, upon which the all-seeing eyes of Buddha gaze out in four directions. The site is adorned with prayer flags, spinning wheels, and smaller shrines and temples, reflecting a rich blend of Vajrayana Buddhist and Hindu architectural influences.
The nickname “Monkey Temple” comes from the sacred monkeys that inhabit the site, adding a lively and unique character to the spiritual atmosphere. With its deep historical roots, sacred symbolism, and elevated location, Swayambhunath offers visitors a profound cultural experience and a peaceful retreat from the city's chaos.
What's not included
Entrance fees to sightseeing monuments (applicable for Group and Private Tour options only).
Fees For SAARC Nationals: Total: USD 10 per person (Chandragiri Cable Car & Swayambhunath)
Personal expenses.
Tips.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.
Religious/Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Pashupatinath Temple
One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.
Religious
2-3 hours
Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.
Religious/Historical
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Kathmandu Durbar Square
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.
Historical/Architectural
1-2 hours
NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.
Historical/Architectural
Half-day trip
NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dal Bhat
A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)
Momo
Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.
Snack/Appetizer
Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan
Sel Roti
A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.
Snack/Dessert
Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)
Gundruk
A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free
Popular Activities
Trekking
Mountain biking
Paragliding
Rafting
Yoga and meditation retreats
Spa treatments
Café hopping
Gardening
Best Time to Visit
October to November and March to April
These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.
20-30°C (68-86°F)
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Nepali
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Time Zone
Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
- • Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By bus
Galkopul, Kalanki
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Thamel
Boudha
Patan (Lalitpur)
Bhaktapur
Day trips
Nagarkot
32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip
A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.
Dhulikhel
30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip
A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.
Changunarayan
18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.
Festivals
Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year)
Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year)
Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
- Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
- Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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