Ranikot Day Hike

The Ranikot Hike offers scenic views along with an average trekking experience. The day starts with an early morning drive from Kathmandu via Suryabinayak to the start of the hike.

From there, one takes on a well-defined trail that heads to the Ranikot viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The track runs, bending through the green hills, allowing glimpses of the far-away mountains capped with snow amidst a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere.

The trek reaches a viewpoint from where the further trek would be heading towards Rayale Village, a beautiful spot with its tranquil environment and rich natural beauty.

You get scrumptious lunch here, so you can rest a bit and enjoy the breathtaking view of the surroundings.

There are some excellent photo opportunities in this village, and the landscape forms an ideal setting to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the area.

The hike then continues for another 1.5 hours uphill after lunch up to a point where the vehicle will meet you for the transfer back to Kathmandu.

On return, it may also include an en-route visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in order to observe some historic temples and monuments.

This addition will make Ranikot Hike not only a trek but also an adventure, combined with nature and culture.

Best time for the Ranikot Hike

Generally, the altitude of the Ranikot Hike is 1800 M, with trails that can be fairly easily accessed.

For this trek, the best time would be in spring-from March to May-and in autumn-from September to November.

During these months, the weather is normally clear and pleasant, thus creating ideal conditions for hiking; temperatures are mild, while the surrounding landscapes are amazingly visible.

In spring, it is all flowers and greenery, adding vibrancy to the hike, while in autumn, the air is cool and crisp with clear skies for breathtaking views.

Although hikes in winter and summer are quite possible, in winter it may get a little cold, and the monsoon season in summer might make the trails slippery.

That is why spring and autumn are the best times for a far more entertaining and safe trek on the Ranikot Hike.

Ranikot Hike difficulty level

Ranikot Hike is graded as an easy to moderate trek. Hence, it caters to people of different fitness levels. The track consists of a mixture of gentle ups and downs, having some fairly steep climbs, but not exactly demanding.

This hike takes a few hours, as it is done in a moderate pace with the intention of seeing the beauty around you without feeling rushed.

Though rewarding, the hike isn't exhausting, and it is pretty easy for people with fair physical strength or beginners.

All in all, the Ranikot Day Hike is a worthy adventure, with the difficulty rating average, hence very suitable for those who want to enjoy an all-day outdoorsy getaway.

Preparation required for the Ranikot Hike

While the trek at Ranikot is relatively easy to moderate, a little planning will help to make the trek comfortable. Here's what one needs to keep in mind:

• Clothing and Footwear: Extra lightweight, quick-drying, hiking-type clothes are recommended; a comfortable pair of heavy-duty hiking shoes or boots with good grip. Bring along a lightweight jacket or extra layer for cooler weather if hiking during winter months. 

• Water and Snacks: Take enough water for the hike, as one needs to keep hydrated. One can also carry light snacks like energy bars or fruits to maintain their energy throughout the day. 

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are basically indispensable, particularly during warmer periods of the year, when one is most exposing themselves to long hours of sunlight. 

• Camera and Essentials: As the Ranikot Hike will give views at breathtaking peaks, do not forget to take your camera or phone along. Take a small backpack where you will place your personal stuff like a phone, wallet, and medicines. 

• Physical Preparation: The trek itself is not strenuous; however, it would be best to prepare the body with some light physical movements before the hike-such as brisk walking or light jogging-to build stamina and make the experience even more comfortable. 

With these preparations, you shall be completely ready for this breathtaking experience of the Ranikot Hike.