Quick Facts about Sundarijal
- Location: Gokarneshwar Municipality
- Bus Route: Bagbazaar – Gaushala – Chabahil – Bouddha – Jorpati – Gokarna – Sundarijal
- Height: 1350 meters (4,430ft)
- Distance from Kathmandu: 15 kilometers
- Area (Size): 5.18 square kilometers
- Famous For: Waterfalls, rivers, dense forest, and the Sundarimai temple
- Things to Do: Hiking, swimming, canyoning, picnic, temples visit, and many more.
Sundarijal is located in the Gokarneshwar Municipality. It is just 15 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu.
Sundarijal comes from two Nepali words: sundari, meaning “beautiful,” and jal, meaning “water.” Like its name, the place is known for its stunning waterfalls and refreshing natural beauty. In addition, it is the starting point for many beautiful hikes nearby. It is also one of the famous tourist destinations.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a short adventure with friends and family, or a visit to religious sites, Sundarijal has something for everyone.
Things to Do in Sundarijal: Main Attractions
1. Hiking
Sundarijal is a well-loved hiking destination near Kathmandu. It is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Depending on your preference, you can choose a different route.
2. Swimming
Sundarijal is famous for its beautiful and clean waterfalls. There are plenty of waterfalls to choose from, and many of them are perfect for a swim.
3. Canyoning
For adventure lovers, this place offers a short and easy canyoning route that’s great for beginners or a quick escape. The price might start from Nrs 5000/person.
4. Picnic
Sundarijal is the popular picnic spot. People visit there to relax, eat, and enjoy nature with friends and family.
5. Sundarijal Hydropower Station
You can also see the Sundarijal Hydropower Station, the second hydropower plant of Nepal. It is a major source of electricity in Kathmandu Valley.
6. Try Local Cuisine
You will find different restaurants offering local Nepali food all along the way. Do not miss it.
7. Explore the Temples
Apart from the beautiful waterfalls and landscape, Sundarijal is home to many religious temples. Some of the religious sites located there are Sundarimai Mandir, Krishna Mandir, and Ganesh Mandir.
8. Shivapuri National Park
Since a large portion of Sundarijal belongs to Shivapuri National Park, it serves as a gateway to the park. You can hike for about an hour to reach the entry point of the park. A couple of hours into the uphill hike, you’ll reach Mulkharka, a scenic Tamang village with stunning views of Kathmandu Valley. The trail then leads to Chisapani and continues toward Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Panauti.
Also Explore Lakuri Bhanjyang
How to Reach Sundarijal from Kathmandu: Direction
1. By Public Vehicle
You can reach Sundarjal by public bus. The local bus is easily available from Ratnapark Bus Park. The Sundarijal bus route includes major stops like Bagbazaar, Gaushala, Chabahil, Bouddha, Jorpati, and Gokarna before reaching Sundarijal. You can board from any stop along the way. This is an affordable way to Sundarijal, with prices ranging from Nrs 80 -150 per person
2. By Private Vehicle
You can also travel by your own vehicle, either a car or a bike. It is fast and convenient. You can reach the hiking point in about an hour.
Famous Sundarijal Hike Route
The hike starts from Budhanilkantha Temple, where you can see the famous sleeping statue of Lord Vishnu. Then, you will walk through Shivapuri National Park, passing the dense forests and small villages. There is a quiet Buddhist monastery called Nagi Gompa; you can stop by there. You might see animals like deer, wild cats, and leopards during your trek. You will also hear birds singing.
The hike is around 18 km and may take about 5 to 6 hours. You’ll get beautiful views of Kathmandu and the surrounding hills along the way. There’s also a big cliff called Tarebhir that people love for rock climbing.
Best Time to Visit Sundarijal Waterfall
The best time to visit Sundarijal is spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). However, during the monsoon (June-August), the water will be fuller, making it ideal for photography and swimming. Just be cautious of the slippery roads.
Things to Know Before Visiting
There are few things to know before visiting this amazing waterfall.
- If you are a foreigner, carry your passport with you. You need to show your passport while buying a ticket at an entry point.
- Since the route is rocky and steep, wear comfortable and sturdy hiking boots.
- It’s better to start the hike early so you’ll have enough time to enjoy the trail, take photographs, swim, taste local food, and return before it gets dark.
- Carry a few snacks and water with you, as there are not many shops around, and food can get expensive too.
- Carry a hat and sunglasses, and wear sunscreen to escape the heat.
FAQ
Is Sundarijal safe?
Yes, Sundarijal is usually safe for visitors. But it is always better to travel there in a group. And be careful of slippery roads in the monsoon and avoid swimming in deep areas if you’re not a good swimmer.
How long does it take to hike Sundarijal?
The Sundarijal hike is around 18 km and may take about 5 to 6 hours.
What is the height of Sundarijal?
The height of Sundarijal is 1350 meters (4,430ft).
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Asmita Pandey is a travel enthusiast and the founder of Travel Nepal Guides. She enjoys exploring different parts of Nepal, trying local food, and finding lesser-known places along the way. Through her own travel experiences, she shares practical tips and honest insights to help travelers plan their trips and explore Nepal with confidence.
