Introduction
Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, is not just a concrete jungle. The rich landscape around Kathmandu Valley has numerous waterfalls that can be a perfect retreat for you. You can reach these places by driving around 30 minutes to 1 hour from Kathmandu, and then you can start the hike up to the waterfall itself. Most of the waterfalls we have included take somewhere between 2-3 hours to reach while hiking. Each of these waterfalls has its own unique allure. A short trip to these waterfalls can be a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
In this article, let us look into some of the best waterfalls close to Kathmandu and what could be some of the best times to visit these waterfalls.
Top 5 Waterfalls To Explore Around Kathmandu
- Jhor Waterfall, Tokha, Kathmandu
- Sundarijal Waterfall, Gokarneshwor, Kathmandu
- Bishnudwar Waterfall, Shivapuri, Kathmandu
- Nagarkot Waterfall, Changunarayan,Bhaktapur
- Simba Falls,Manikhel,Lalitpur
Jhor Waterfall, Tokha
Route: Samakhusi-Grande-Tokha-Jhor
Situated on the border of Kathmandu and Nuwakot districts, Jhor waterfall has been a popular choice among people. To reach Jhor waterfall, you have to start your journey from Samakhusi, and then you will reach Jhor in 10 km. It usually takes 30 minutes to reach Jhor. You can hike to the waterfall from the parking area, which takes around 20-30 minutes to reach.
The source of this waterfall is the Shivapuri National Park. The water here is usually cold and chilly. You can also visit the Lord Mahadev shrine, which is located beneath the waterfall. The fresh air around this place makes it a primary destination for waterfall lovers.
Sundarijal Waterfall, Gokarneshwor
Route: Chabahil-Boudha-Jorpati-Gokarneshwor-Sundarijal
About 17km northeast of Kathmandu lies the Sundarijal waterfall. This waterfall is associated with many religious beliefs and has cultural significance. It usually takes around 1 hour to reach the parking spot. Various routes can lead to the Sundarijal Waterfall. You can hike all the way from Budhanilkantha temple, which can take significantly longer than other routes. The hike is comparatively more challenging, and sturdy hiking shoes are recommended, as paths can be slippery around this place. The hike usually takes around 30-45 minutes to complete.
This place is also famous for picnics, swimming, and cycling. The waterfall is situated at an altitude of 2340m. Locals believe bathing in the waterfall will bring prosperity and good luck. The Sundari Mai temple is also nearby, and hikers can visit it as well.
Bishnudwar Waterfall, Shivapuri
Route: Budhanilkantha-Shivapuri Gate-Bishnudwar
Located in the Shivapuri Hills, this waterfall is close to the origin point of the Bishnumati River. Named after the Hindu god Lord Bishnu, this waterfall holds religious significance. Driving up to the parking area will take around 30 minutes, from where you can begin your hike up the Shivapuri National Park. The hike takes 30-40 minutes to complete.
The forested trail contains serene surroundings and will refresh your mind and soul. Hiking along this trail is fairly easy, and almost anyone can hike it with ease. The waterfall is not as big as other waterfalls, but it attracts a lot of hikers and trekkers monthly.
Nagarkot Waterfall, Bhaktapur
Route 1: Sallaghari-Kharipati-Nagarkot
Route 2: Jorpati-Sankhu-Sankharapur-Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a small town on top of a hill. Located 25km away from the city, it attracts many domestic and international tourists. Getting to Nagarkot takes around an hour, and the road condition is excellent. The hike up to the waterfall is short and is completed within 30 minutes. The hiking trail is full of lush green forests, and you can enjoy the view of the Himalayas along the hike.
The waterfall is located near the Jalpadevi Temple. Along the hike, you can witness the rural life of Nepal, and small villages are seen throughout the hike. The green surroundings of the trail make it even more refreshing and rejuvenating.
Simba Falls, Lalitpur
Route: Satdobato-Lele-Manikhel
Located around 50km from the Kathmandu Valley, Simba Falls is another popular waterfall in Kathmandu. It is a combination of more than five small waterfalls. The elevation of the waterfall is around 2000m. The word “Simba” means beautiful in the local Tamang language. It takes around 2 hours drive to get here. An additional 45-minute hike will lead you to the Simba waterfall.
You can get to Simba Waterfall from another route, which begins at Chobar. A sacred pond known as Saraswati Kunda can also be seen which is 20km away from Lele. The surroundings of this waterfall are serene, and you can enjoy nature in its purest form. The water around this place is always chilly, and the air is crisp.
Which is the Best Time To Visit Waterfall In Kathmandu
You can enjoy the waterfall any time of the year, as the weather does not change drastically around Kathmandu. However, during the monsoon season, avoid waterfalls as the water flow is very high, and the surroundings get flooded. Post-monsoon will be the perfect time to visit such waterfalls because of the weather around this time of the year. However, during this time, these waterfalls are overcrowded. Winters usually see fewer people around these waterfalls as the water flow is less and the water is too cold.
Also Read: Baghdwar Hike: A Journey to the Source of the Holy Bagmati River
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