12 Best Hikes Near Kathmandu Valley You Can Do in a Day
12 Best Hikes Near Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu is an active city; it is a city of life where several cultures and histories enrich each place you visit. But if you absolutely cannot cope with anything, then a walk in the hills around will be exactly what is needed. So let’s find out the best hikes near Kathmandu.
Around Kathmandu, there are plenty of trails to suit any hiker's level. Do you ever consider that just walking in the woods can be beneficial for you? If one wants to have a difficult trail or just a walk through the park or wooded area, there is plenty here.
From the viewing mountains at the top of Chandragiri Hill to the peaceful trails to Namo Buddha, each trek provides an opportunity to make or meet nature and the communities. Imagine that you can discover a great place literally five minutes from where you live.
So, are you ready to explore the best hikes near Kathmandu and get refreshed and revived for a while? So stay with us till the end. We will discuss some of the 12 best hikes close to Kathmandu.
12 Best Hikes in Kathmandu
1. Amitabha Monastery Hike
Starting Point: Swayambhu (Monkey Temple)
Distance: Somewhere between 9.3 and 15 kilometers
Trek Hours: Minimum 3.5 hours
Altitude: 1500 meters (4920 feet)
The Amitabha Monastery Hike starts from Swayambhu, which is also called Monkey Temple. This hiking trail is about 15 km in length, and it will take hikers at least 3.5 hours to complete this journey. The trail takes one to Seto Gumba, the White Monastery, which is at a distance of 1500 meters (4920 feet) above sea level.
On the way through, the trekker can get a marvellous view of Kathmandu Valley and the green hills. Slightly past the start of the trail, hikers walk along a road for some time before turning left into a steeper shortcut that leads to the monastery.
When one arrives at Amitabha Monastery, one is met by carefully constructed buildings and painted walls and ceiling art that portray the life of a Buddha.
From the impression obtained while talking to the resident monks, coupled with the monastery’s location and exquisite view of the surrounding vegetation, it is greatly recommended for people who wish to get a break from the busy urban life.
These prayer flags are usually wrapped and flapped; adding to the pleasant and peaceful nature atmosphere they send out messages of peace. Hikers can also have some great views of other mountains on clear day such as Langtang or Gauri Shankar ranges or mountains.
In the course of this hike, individuals with little to no hiking experience and those with vast hiking experience should be accommodated. This gives you a chance to learn the Tibetan Buddhist culture as you explore the natural beauty of the region.
There are also accommodations available for people who wish to spend a night or more in some local homestay that is within the vicinity of the monastery. It also enables visitors to enjoy this place as spiritual as well as scenic.
2. Kakani Hike
Starting Point: Kakani
Distance: About 12-15 kilometers round trip
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Altitude: It is about 2030 meters or 6664 feet.
This hike is known as the Kakani Hike and is a day hike destination approximately 28 kilometres northwest of Kathmandu. It involves a picturesque drive, and it takes nearly one and a half hours to reach the starting point which is in Kakani.
Kakani is at an altitude of about 2,030 meters above sea level. The Kakani hill station provides a great view of the Himalayan range, including the Annapurna, Manaslu, and the Langtang.
The hike usually takes between 5 and 6 hours and has an easy trail, making it perfect for families or any hiker who has no time to make it to high-intensity camps but needs to break from the busy city life.
During the trek to Kakani, you can observe the real traditions and customs of the Tamang people and also their lifestyle. The trail involves passing through a canopy of young rhododendron and oak trees with a background of natural undertones.
These hikes along the way offer opportunities to visit local strawberry fields and have fruit in the region, depending on the period of the year.
It is the crowning moment of the hike to get to Suryachaur which is a famous spot for having lunch and enjoying the vistas over the valleys there. You may also want to add the Mountain Memorial Park for climbers who perished on several mountaineering missions to your list.
Although it's not all about the view because the Kakani Hike is also a cultural experience. Farmers who follow such practices are also available locally, through which their practices can be studied.
Rainbow trout is one of the delicacies people enjoy while in the region, apart from rhododendron-flavoured liquor.
This hike is best done in the spring and autumns as they come with clear weather which is excellent of taking awesome pictures of the mountain and the lush green fields.
3. Phulchowki Hike
Starting Point: Godawari
Distance: 18 to 20 kilometers (11 to 12.4 miles) round trip.
Trek Hours: 6 to 7 hours
Altitude: 2,782 meters (9,157 feet)
The Phulchowki Hike is one of the best hikes near Kathmandu, which is situated 14 kilometers south of the capital, Kathmandu.
This hike leads you up the highest hill around the Kathmandu Valley with an elevation of 2782m (9,157ft). The Phulchowki Hike starts with Godawari trekking, and hikers can get to this point by a bus from Gongabu Bus Park.
The trail is about 18 to 20 kilometers round trip, and to do the trail generally takes about 6 to 7 hours. On your way up, interspersed with tall trees, you find Subtropical forests full of varieties of birds and butterflies.
A trail leads to Phulchowki, which is well-marked and has a number of shortcuts, which comprise stairs constructed recently. The hike is moderately challenging; however, it is suitable for all forms of hikers because of the manageable sturdiness.
During the trail, you will be exposed to fantastic scenes of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayan range.
The last part of the hike to Kyanjin is relatively steep; however, when you reach Kyanjin, there are great views of numerous mountains, including the Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and even Mount Everest, which is clearly visible on a clear day.
At the top, there is an ancient Hindu / Buddhist temple known of as Phulchowki Mai Temple with colorful prayer flags.
During the spring season, this place looks more beautiful because wildflowers are found in the colours that cover the hill of Phulchowki. Another feature of this area is bird watching, which engages numerous nature lovers from the pseudo-geographic region.
The Phulchowki Hike can be a one-day adventure, or it can also give you a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle by taking you deep into nature and culture.
4. Nagarkot Hike
Starting Point: Nagarkot
Distance: 10-16 km round trip, depending on the type of route used.
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Altitude: 7,120 feet or about 2,175 meters.
It is a day hike and one of the best hikes in Kathmandu destinations situated at a distance of 32 kilometres east of Kathmandu. This trip starts rather early in the morning, with the drive to Nagarkot taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Sitting at an elevation of 2,175 meters, you get to enjoy the brilliant view of the Himalayan chain, with Everest if the skies are clear. This trail measures about 10 – 16 km in distance and usually takes between 5 and 6 hours to undertake. Every hiker will be able to see terraced fields, forest areas, and lovely villages on his or her way through.
When hiking, you are likely to realize how lonely it is, hence the beauty of getting to know yourself. The trail passes through wonderful pine woods and colourful wildflower meadows.
You shall also come across typical Tamang and Gurung villages, affording glimpses into their lifestyle.
This is an easy hike through fresh mountain air with very few people in sight, making it a very peaceful hike after the city. The highlight is getting to the top at Nagarkot, after which a stunning view can be seen.
Here, one can see the splendid high rises from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east.
On their way down, many of them decide to visit the Changu Narayan Temple, which can be seen below.
This cultural hill rising in the middle of Kathmandu Valley is one of the oldest temples in the region and is listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Nagarkot can be hiked at any time of the year, although it is most convenient during spring or autumn with good view and weather. For the novices, it is a starting point, while for others, it is a perfect mix of culture and nature that will make the Nagarkot hike appealing to all.
5. Sundarijal Hike
Starting Point: Budhanilkantha Temple
Distance: 18 kilometres or 11.2 miles in a round trip.
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Altitude: 2340 meters on Nagi Gumba religious site.
The Sundarijal Hike is considered to be a one-day trek of approximately 18 kilometres in the northeast of Kathmandu. There is a short drive to Budhanilkantha before you start the hiking adventure. You can visit the Budhanilkantha Temple because of the large reclining statue of Lord Vishnu.
From there, the tracks take you to Shivapuri National Park, which has an abundance of biodiversity and scenic beauty. The hike has a distance of approximately 18 km, and also it is often done in 5 to 6 hours. On the way, there are good opportunities to have a mesmerizing view of the Kathmandu Valley along the beautiful hills.
While you are hiking along the dense forests of this Shivapuri National Park, you will come across many wildlife, and Bird watching is a common activity here.
Something special about the hike is when one finally arrives at Nagi Gumba, A quiet and beautiful Buddhist nunnery that helps to add to the peacefulness of the hike. It also passes through Tarebhir, a cliff area for rock climbing with a wonderful view of the valley from the top.
The Sundarijal Hike is one of the best activity to do in order to get away from the noisy life of people and be in touch with nature. One advantage of the trail is its solitude, unlike other routinely used trails; hence, one is able to be alone with nature.
Some of the activities to carry out while hiking include: Watching the birds sing as well as enjoying the wildflowers at the site.
Of course, this or any other hike can be done at any time of the year, yet the best time to have clear views and reasonably good weather is during the spring and autumn.
6. Shivapuri Hike
Starting Point: Budhanilkantha
Permit Fees: About $10 and Rs 100 for foreigners and Nepali, respectively.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) one way
Trek Hours: 6 to 7 hours
Altitude: 2,732 meters (8,963 feet)
Shivapuri Hike, which can be professionally done, is found north of Kathmandu. This trek usually starts from Budhanilkantha, where Budhanilkantha Temple, which hosts a big statue of Lord Vishnu.
Walking through a gentle terrain gives this trail a distance of about 18 kilometres round trip, and the duration of this trek ranges between 6 to 7 hours.
While climbing to Shivapuri Peak of 2,732 m, the trekkers will have an exciting view of Ktm valley and other Himalayan ranges, including Langtang and Manaslu.
It is an easy-to-moderate-grade trail that is always cleared and has markers along the way. The first section of the trail, again, is a trek through the dense virgin vegetation, coming with it a variety of plant and animal life.
You will meet Nagi Gumba, the calm Buddhist monastery; you can relax hear and have a cup of tea with beautiful views. Further up, the trail becomes narrow and steep until Baghdwar, which is the origin of the Bagmati River.
This section presents special opportunities to communicate with locals and investigate the cultural meaning of the area to the sadhus.
There are some other treks that can be followed inside the Shivapuri National Park area. For instance, shorter treks take from 1-3 days and can either take you to Tarebhir or Chisapani, where cultural experience with excellent view sites.
These trails enable hikers to get close to nature while being embraced by the quietness of the park. Shivapuri Hike is one of the best hikes in Kathmandu. It gets rid of city noise and offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy Nepali nature and explore local traditions.
7. Namobuddha Hike
Starting Point: Dhulikhel
Distance: One way of it is about 10 kilometres (6.2 miles)
Trek Hours: 6 to 7 hours round trip
Altitude: 1,750 meters (5,741 feet)
Sitting on Panauti, the Namobuddha Hike is a one-day trek that leads you to one of the most revered Buddhist Shrines in Nepal. We hike normally to Dhulikhel, which is a beautiful town rich in Newari culture. This trail measures roughly 10k, and it takes 6 to 7 hours to accomplish that, depending on one's speed.
During the hike, you will go across the specially painted terraced fields, the beautiful deep-wooded areas, and small settlements along the hike that provide insight into the local tradition and way of living.
The climax of the trek is the hilltop place of Namobuddha Stupa at an altitude of 1,750 meters, and the view of the higher Himalayan series is more mesmerizing.
But the highlight of this trek is Namobuddha Monastery, which has religious reverence. As per the Buddhist mythology, it is held that Lord Buddha, in one of his previous avatars, ritually fed a hungry tigress and her cubs. Such a stupa marks this act of kindness, and many Buddhists still make it a point to visit the stupa.
There are other minor trails present in Shivapuri National Park apart from the one, which is about 7 km long. For example, in addition to Khop cheese, you can add a walk around the villages of Balthali or Khopasi to feel the life of Nepalese villagers.
These trails include other chances to view the regional natural features and overlook the Himalayan mountain ranges.
8. Champadevi Hike
Starting Point: Pharping or Hattiban Resort
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) one way.
Trek Hours: 4 to 6 hours round trip
Altitude: 2,285 meters (7,464 feet)
The Champadevi hike is one of the day's treks, which is just 20 kilometres away from the Kathmandu Valley. This hike usually starts at Pharping, and it only takes around thirty minutes of a drive from the city.
The trail rises steadily but without harsh inclines, going through the dense pine and oak woodlands within the city.
Including the one-way distance, the hike would take between 6-8 kilometres and take about 3-4 hours, if the trail is well trodden, to attain an altitude of 7,464 feet. On the way to Kulekhani Bazaar, it is also possible to see beautiful views of the Kathmandu Valley and other mountains as well.
At the last crest of the top is the Champadevi Temple, a much-visited Hindu temple. Temples and gods of different colours are mesmerizing everywhere in the area, along with colourful prayer flags.
At the top, you can have good views of the peaks and ridges of the Langtang, Ganesh, and Gauri Shankar Himalayas.
This position also offers excellent views of other hills, such as Phulchowki and Chandragiri hills or mountains as they are referred to. People take time to relax here, particularly taking snacks while admiring the wonderful natural surroundings.
For the more adventurous, the Champadevi Hike can be done along other trails in the Shivapuri National Park. For instance, you can hike to Machchhe Gaun or Kritipur, which provide more viewpoints and other nearby villages that folk can visit.
Due to all these advantages, Champadevi is ideal for short hiking trips as well as extended treks. Champadevi Hike gives one an opportunity to see a good combination of nature and cultural sites, and it is an easy day hike for those interested in hiking near the valley of Kathmandu.
9. Chisapani Hike
Starting Point: Sundarijal
Distance: It measures almost 13 km one way.
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Altitude: 2,195 meters (7,200 feet)
Trekking around Kathmandu is made easy with the Chisapani hike, which starts at Sundarijal, which is just northeast of the capital. It is roughly 13 km long and normally rambles for a half day, for at least six hours at most.
Chisapani stands at an elevation of 2,195 meters (7,200ft) above sea level and is a hill station. Hiking this trail takes you through fertile forests and past several interesting villages boasting fantastic Himalayan views of the Langtang area. On the way, the tourists can notice various kinds of plants, birds, and other animals living in this region.
That is what you will see as you move closer to Chisapani, although the area offers both natural and cultural values.
The route is clearly sign-posted, and its levels of steepness are low; therefore, it can be attempted by anyone regardless of their fitness level. Another important landmark is Chisapani itself; experiences come to life when you get a chance to enjoy the dazzling view of the mountain.
Some hikers sleep in the nearby facilities in order to watch the sunset and the sunrise from this post; the facilities enrich the hiking experience as well.
The
Chisapani hike also provides a starting point for other treks, such as the Langtang-Gosainkunda region trek.
For those wanting to get a longer trip, the trek is possible to continue to Nagarkot or even towards the high Himalayas. This kind of flexibility makes Chisapani one of the favourite places to visit for day hikers and tramps with more than one day on their schedule.
10. Nagarjuna Hike (Jamacho Peak)
Starting Point: Phulbari Gate (Balaju Bypass)
Permit Fees: NPR 500 (USD 5) for foreign visitors; NPR 50 (USD 0.50) for Nepalese people.
Distance: A trip of around 20 kilometres each way or 6.2 miles.
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Altitude: 2,128 meters (6,981 feet)
Nagarjuna Hike, or Jamacho Peak Hike, is a beautiful day hike located 5 km northwest of Kathmandu. This hike starts at the Balaju Bypass, and a car ride of about 7-kilometer drives you to the Phulbari Gate, Nemunagar, the gateway to the Nagarjun Forest.
This distance is a round trip of about 8.5 kilometres and reaches a height of about 2164m (7100 ft).
The best part of the Jamacho Peak Hike is that it is relatively easy and will take you about 4 to 6 hours to conquer.
Each time you rise up the slopes, you will be in the middle of a green scenery containing an exceptional variety of trees, shrubs, animals, and birds, making this place unique and charming for those in search of a natural break away from the concrete jungle.
The other focal point of the Nagarjuna Hike is the Jamacho Monastery at Jamacho Tsenkhar, a hilltop. Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma are worshipped here by both Buddhists and Hindus, which is why it is extensively crowded among pilgrims.
This hike is easy to moderate; the entire trail is clearly marked and has had stone steps put in at some places. En route, there is a Himalayan panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley and snowy MT.
The range of Annapurna, Manaslu & Langtang can also be seen. Ambient sounds soften the mood or the noise of the surroundings and create a positive mood for your travels.
The Nagarjuna Hike is good for an individual hiker or for families, but can get rather crowded at weekends and in fine weather. If possible, it is better to go in the morning to avoid the congested areas and also fully enjoy the serenity of the place.
Despite no restaurants operating alongside the trail, it is advisable to pack a lunch because the view at the top is perfect for a picnic.
11. Chandragiri Hike
Starting Point: Mata Tirtha Temple
Distance: 5-7 Km one way or 3.1-4.3 miles one way.
Trek Hours: 3 to 4 hours
Altitude: 2,551 meters (8,333 feet)
The Chandragiri Hike is a one-day trek that is situated 20 km outside of Kathmandu. The trek normally originates from the Mata Tirtha Temple, where tourists go for a visit to the temple before the trek starts.
The route passes upwards through the forests and there is beautiful opportunity to have a great view of the valley of Kathmandu.
The
Chandragiri Hike trip length is about 5 km, and for a round-trip climb, it takes about 2 to 3 hours, and the highest point is at 2551m/ 8,369ft. This trail is easy to spot, and it is possible to hike regardless of one's level of experience.
During the course of the trip, you will have a dreamlike view of the mountains of the Great Himalayan Range, such as the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, or Everest, if the day is clear enough. Religious tourists will be delighted to visit the Baleshwar Temple, a place of worship for both Hindus and Buddhists.
It is believed that the foundation of this temple was started at a place where Lord Shiva appeared to King Prithvi Narayan Shah. People spend time touring the temple and enjoying the calm environment around the place before going down.
For those not likely to undertake the hike, there is always a cable car from the bottom to the top of Chandragiri Hills. This is so that visitors can sample the beauty of the site while taking a break from treks.
The cable car is very thrilling and gives tourists, especially families, a wonderful view of the valley below. Chandragiri Hike is a wonderful chance to get out of the city and among the trees, to havea great view of the mountains.
12. Changu Narayan Temple Hike
Starting Point: Sankhu or Bhaktapur
Distance: 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) one way.
Trek Hours: 3 to 4 hours
Altitude: 1,600 m (5,249 ft)
The Changu Narayan Temple Hike is another splendid trail about 22 kilometres away from Kathmandu. This hike commonly starts in Sankhu, a town famous for its Newari architecture.
The trail passes through farming land consisting of many terraces and some small local villages. One must complete a total of approximately 12 km up to the Changu Narayan Temple. It is situated at an elevation of 1,750m (5700 ft), which will require around 3-4 hours of tour.
In fact, Changu Narayan Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temple sites located in Nepal and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This site has artistic wooden engravings and stonework that show advanced antique workmanship. Tourists, after getting there, have the opportunity to walk around within the confines of the temple and look at the historical facts about the place.
The nearby area has a view of the Kathmandu Valley and nearby hillocks as well. The nearby area has a view of the Kathmandu Valley and nearby hillocks as well.
The
Changu Narayan Temple Hike is perfect for those willing to embrace both cultural trails and stunning views. It can be practised by everybody during any season.
However, trekking is most comfortable in spring and autumn. Hikers prefer to use Bhaktapur or Panauti to go to Kathmandu as a return path because many of these travellers wish to visit those historical cities again.
The Changu Narayan Temple Hike is a very good route for history and culture, along with good views of valleys and mountains.
Read more blogs
