Chandragiri Cable Car Tour - Family Tours in Kathmandu

Kathmandu , Nepal

Chandragiri Cable Car Tour - Family Tours in Kathmandu

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About this experience

From high atop Chandragiri Hill, a new cable car system has opened to take visitors to the top. Opened in 2016, the Chandragiri Cable Car has quickly become one of the most popular places to visit in the Kathmandu Valley. And it’s no wonder as the view from Chandragiri Hill is absolutely fabulous.

The Chandragiri Cable Car tour begins in the morning when a private car with your guide picks you up at your hotel. The journey takes you across to the southwestern side of the Valley where you board the Chandragiri Cable Car. It’s an easy trip up to the top, riding high above the lush jungle below.

From the top, be sure to enjoy lunch (not included in price). The views are incredible as you look at the snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas. There is a sacred temple on top as Chandragiri is a Hindu holy site.

Available options

Chandragiri Cable Car Tour - Family Tours in Kathmandu

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Both ways cable car ticket

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

We pick you from Thamel and other parts to go to this amazing Chandragiri hills. This trip is mainly suitable for family and luxury travelers who love to see mountains and valley without hard effort. It is great viewpoint. It is about 16 kilometers from Thamel.

The Chandragiri Cable Car is one of the finest cable car attractions in this part of the world. Completed in 2016, the Chandragiri Cable Car takes you to the top of Chandragiri Hill (elevation 2,551 meters/8,366 ft). It is one of the highest points on the high hills surrounding the Kathmandu Valley.

The journey begins when your guide picks you up at your hotel and takes you by private vehicle to the village where the cable car station is. It’s a pleasant trip in the morning as you see the various neighborhoods of Kathmandu.

Once you board the cable car, it is a wonderful journey as the gondola glides upwards over dense jungles below. Look out of the large glass windows on all four sides and you will see wonderful views of the Kathmandu Valley. As the car glides upwards, more and more of the snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas become visible. Once you reach the top, it’s just a very short walk to the summit.

On top is a sacred Hindu temple where you can watch devotees doing puja (worship). Chandragiri is famous in Hindu circles for its sacredness, and every day Hindu pilgrims make the pilgrimage to the top. There are often activities taking place at the amphitheater where sometimes you can sit and take in a free program. Also on top is a wonderful restaurant with fabulous food to be enjoyed while gazing about at the high, snowcapped peaks of the mighty Himalayas.

When it comes to mountain views, Chandragiri is second to none. On clear days, you can see five of the 14 highest peaks in the world! Mt. Everest is oftentimes quite visible on clear days from on top of Chandragiri. The ranges of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang are equally visible.

Following lunch, it’s another pleasant journey down the mountain and back to the bottom station where your car is waiting to take you back to your hotel.

This is a half-day trip that can easily be combined with other sightseeing trips in the Kathmandu Valley. Whatever time you may have in Nepal, no one should miss the opportunity to take the Chandragiri Cable Car Tour. Your tour will be approx 4 hrs to and from the hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options 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