Valley legend holds that the Kathmandu Valley was once a lake, and that the bodhisattva Manjushri cut a gap in the southern hills with his sword to let the water out. Chobhar gorge is that gap: a deep, narrow cleft through which the Bagmati river leaves the valley. Geologists agree on the lake, if not the sword, and the ancient lake sediments are why the valley floor is so fertile. Standing on the bridge, with the river squeezed between rock walls below, the story feels easy to believe.
The bridge itself is a piece of engineering history: a 1903 iron suspension footbridge with a span of about 40 m, made by Harpers of Aberdeen in Scotland and carried into Nepal in pieces. Beside the gorge stands Jal Binayak, a three-tiered Ganesh temple dating from the early 17th century. From the road, a short climb of about 15 minutes reaches the hilltop temple of Adinath Lokeshwar, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists, its walls covered with metal pots and pans offered by newlyweds hoping for a well-provisioned home.
Below the hill, the Chobhar caves can be explored with a local guide and a torch, and Manjushree Park has paths along the gorge; each charges a small entry fee, roughly NPR 100 to 300; check current status before you travel. Be prepared for one honest drawback: the Bagmati here carries Kathmandu's sewage, and the water smells in the dry season. Visit in the morning, then drive 2 km south to Taudaha pond, where ducks and other water birds winter from November to February.
Good for
- Families
- Photographers
- Couples
- Groups
Questions travellers ask
What is the legend of Chobhar gorge?
Legend says the Kathmandu Valley was a great lake until the bodhisattva Manjushri cut through the southern hills with his sword at Chobhar, draining the water and making the valley habitable. Geologists confirm that a lake did once fill the valley. The gorge is where the Bagmati river still flows out today.
Can you walk on the Chobhar suspension bridge?
Yes. The 1903 iron footbridge, made by Harpers of Aberdeen in Scotland, is still used by pedestrians and spans about 40 m over the Bagmati. It sways slightly underfoot but is safe to cross at a normal pace. Hold small children's hands, and avoid crowding the deck when local groups are crossing.
Are the Chobhar caves suitable for children?
Older children who are comfortable in tight spaces usually enjoy them, but the caves involve crawling, wet rock and darkness, so they are not suitable for toddlers or anyone claustrophobic. Go with a local guide, carry a torch and wear clothes you do not mind getting muddy. Access can close after heavy rain.
