Inside the Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park, there are many hiking trails, one of which is the Jamacho Gumba Hike. Jamacho Gumba is located at an elevation of 2150m above sea level. From the top of this peak, we can enjoy the stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and the magnificent Himalayan view during clear weather.
Jamacho Danda Hike is a perfect day hiking route in Kathmandu. Just a few minutes drive from the heart of Kathmandu and tourist hub Thamel. Walk for just 4 to 5 hours inside the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Walking through the dense forest to reach the beautiful Jamacho Hill and enjoy a glimpse of the Buddhist Shirin, Mountain, and surroundings is a lifetime experience.
Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park is home to the Flora and Fauna. Hike inside this park allows you to see various species of animals, birds, plants, and little bushes. On top of Jamacho Hill, there is a beautiful little Monastery, stupas, and hanging colorful Buddhist prayer flags. All these elements will make your Jamacho Gumba Hiking a very peaceful and pleasant day hike in Kathmandu.
How to get to the top of Jamacho Gumba Hill?
First, take a bus to Machhapokhari or Balaju Baies Dhara to start your hike to Jamacho Gumba. From there again take a bus to Fulbari Gate, but no bus goes that way regularly. So it is better to walk for around 20 to 25 minutes. If you have your private vehicle then take a drive to Fulbari Gate and park nearby. Unfortunately, there is no parking space at the gate area. So please find a parking place nearby before embark on your journey to Jamacho Gumba.
Fulbari Gate is the place from where Jamacho Gumba Hike begins. At Fulbari Gate buy an entry ticket to Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park then begin your hike to Jamacho Hill Top. Before you enter the national park, an Army officer will check your bag because there are certain items are not allowed to take with you while hiking.
From there, you have to follow the signs of Jamacho Gumba and steps inside the Jungle will ultimately take you to the final destination.
Hiking Route of Jamacho Gumba Hike.
It depends on where you stay. If you are in Thamel take the way to Balaju, Machhapokhari, and a way to Kakani to reach Fulbari Gate. From Fulbari Gate need to climb up to Jamacho Danda (Hill). Along the way, there is another army check post where you need to show your permit or entrance ticket which you bought in Phulbari Gate.
The hiking route is well-marked and easy to follow. Start with steps and a steep climb up and some parts are Nepali flat too. Just follow the one trail which goes up and follow the signs of Jamacho Gumba. To end this hike you can take the same way down or combine this hike with other hiking routes like Shivapuri Peak Hike, and Chandragiri Hill Hike. For that, you better have a group of experienced hikers. Because it will take a quite long time and days as well.
What should you bring with you?
This hike stands on top of the hill and routes from inside the Jungle. So the first important thing to bring with you is enough drinking water. Some pack lunch (Highly recommended) because there is no place to buy and eat any food. Some dry fruits, cookies, and energy bars (chocolates) are the best choice. And if possible some fruits such as apples, pomegranates, etc.
If you are traveling alone bring a little Swiss knife, which is very useful. Clothing depends on which season you are doing Jamcho Gumba Day Hike but don’t forget to bring anti-insects if you are traveling there during the summer season. Because there are so many leeches that will come everywhere. Another medicine you can take is a little bit of salt to avoid leeches.
The first aid kid is always handy to take with you. Walking inside the jungle and small hiking trails of Kathmandu Valley is sometimes tough. You may fall, twist your ankle, bank somewhere, and get wound.
When to do the Jamacho Gumba hike?
Jamacho Gumba Hike is all season hike. However, the Spring, Autumn, and Winter are the best time to do this hike. Because during these seasons the views of the surroundings and snowy capped are spectacular, especially during spring and autumn.
The Winter season is also good for doing Jamacho Hill Hike, sometimes there might be snow as well. But it is a bit colder than the other two seasons. I don’t recommend doing the Jamacho hike during the summer season because at that time rain and leeches will make your hike unpleasant.
In the end,
Jamacho Gumba Hike is a perfect day hiking route in Kathmandu which is suitable for everyone who seeking a day hiking route in Kathmandu. This hike will offer a mindblowing view of the Kathmandu Valley and snow-capped Mountains. Also, allows witnessing the various species of flora and fauna. Alongside, it is a Buddhist Pilgrimage site to observe the Buddhist rituals and traditions.
