Chandragiri Cable Car & Monkey Temple Tour 2026 (Kathmandu Day Tour)

Rise above the bustle of the capital on the Chandragiri Cable Car & Monkey Temple Tour, a relaxed full-day experience that pairs a spectacular ropeway ride with two of the Kathmandu Valley's most sacred hilltops. In a single unhurried day you glide from the valley floor to the crest of Chandragiri Hills (2,551 m) for a sweeping Himalayan panorama, then descend to the ancient stupa of Swayambhunath, the beloved “Monkey Temple.”

The day begins with a comfortable private transfer to the Thankot base station, where the Chandragiri cable car lifts you nearly 1,000 vertical metres in about nine minutes. On a clear morning the ridge-top opens to a horizon of white giants — from Annapurna in the west toward the Everest range in the east — while the whole of Kathmandu Valley spreads out beneath you. At the summit you visit the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, wander landscaped view-decks, and enjoy time for photographs and a warm drink.

Returning to the valley, you continue to Swayambhunath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched on its own forested knoll. Reach the gleaming white dome crowned by the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, spin the prayer wheels, and take in another grand view of the city framed by fluttering prayer flags. Your licensed guide brings both sites to life — the myths of the valley's creation, the meaning of the stupa's architecture, and the daily rhythm of Nepali devotion.

Gentle, scenic and richly cultural, this half- to full-day outing is ideal for families, first-time visitors, and anyone short on time who still wants an extraordinary Himalayan day. It also makes a perfect acclimatisation warm-up before a bigger adventure such as our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Explore more experiences on our tour list, and travel the Enticing Himalayas way — Explore, Heal, Thrive.

What's included

• Private air-conditioned round-trip transfers (hotel – Thankot – Swayambhunath – hotel)
• Chandragiri cable car return ticket
• Swayambhunath entry fee
• Professional English-speaking licensed guide
• All applicable local taxes and service charges

Good to know

Himalayan views are best on clear mornings (October–April). Dress in layers — the ridge is cooler and breezier than the valley. Modest dress is appreciated at temple sites; remove shoes where indicated. The cable car occasionally pauses for weather or maintenance.

—Enticing Himalayas