About Jamacho Gumba Hike
Jamacho, also known as “The celebration of hills” as per the Buddhist scriptures, or Vindhya mountain to some, is a holy site located within the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park at an elevation of 2130 meters ASL. Not only is this a popular pilgrimage destination, but it is also a much-favored destination for day hikers as well.
Where is Jamacho Gumba?
Three kilometers further from Balaju Bypass, an entrance to the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, also known by the name Fulbari gate arrives. Following the trail through the wilderness of Raniban, at the top of the hill lies a gumba which is Jamacho gumba.
How hard is the Hike?
Jamacho being a short hike doesn’t tend to be demanding and straining on the knees. Just past the entrance, a steep step trail begins. Following that, after a while of steady hiking, a military checkpoint appears. From there onwards, the course becomes gentler until it reaches a rest stop. The trail steepens slightly more until you reach the top. Jamacho is ideal for those looking for easy challenges.
Best attractions around Jamacho hill
A few km away from the entrance, following the dusty road(Alternate Route), there come some birdhouses where varieties of wild birds have been kept for presentation. The cliff wall for rock climbing isn’t much further from the birdcage. What allures visitors is the wilderness of Raniban, the panoramic sight of the Himalayan range, a tranquil religious experience at the monastery at the top, an outlook of the whole Kathmandu valley, and many more?
Things to consider while hiking to Jamacho Gumba
At the entrance, you’d be asked if you’ve brought a gas lighter, matchsticks, speakers, alcoholic beverages, and others. Once you’ve been cleared, you’d need to be responsible and keep the peace and tranquility of the wilderness. There are signboards along the trail informing people about what’s allowed and not inside the national park. Disturbing the natural state of the affluent and diversified flora and fauna inside the park is forbidden.
What should I prepare for the hike?
First and foremost, wherever you might be hiking. You’d need a reliable pair of hiking shoes on if you want to still have trouble-free legs at the end of the day. To save yourself from the sun, put on a hat, sunglass, and some sunscreen. To keep yourself hydrated on the trail, bring one or two water bottles. It’s better if the water has some electrolytes in it. Bring some snacks, chocolates, protein bars, or whatever floats your boat to not starve during the hike. A steady supply of calories always makes hikes more bearable. For some extra lifted spirit, you could add some caffeinated beverages/products. Bringing a thermos full of hot water might come in handy.
Best time for Jamacho Gumba hike
Jamacho hike is effortless when you have pleasant weather and a well-exercised physique. Though it’s doable in every season, Spring and autumn are when this place is more tranquil, scenic, and livelier. The turquoise sunny sky rewards us with the best views of the Himalayan vistas and the valley at the bottom from the top of Jamacho hill.
Monsoon’s when you enjoy the dense, foggy, green, lush forest full of life. You’d have to bear with the little visibility, less sightseeing, numerous leeches, slippery trail, rain falling over you, and many more.
A special celebration is held to commemorate Jamacho Jatra on the day of Buddha Purnima.