Best Short Hike Around Kathmandu

Best Short Hike Around Kathmandu

When the days in Nepal are ending, but the adventure is what you are looking for, then a short hike around Kathmandu is the one you should go for.

Are you tired of trekking for days in Nepal? With these best short-hike destinations around Kathmandu, you can still make adventurous memories in Nepal quickly.

A short hike refers to hikes that can be completed within a day or longer, up to 2/3 days. Nepal is popular for long treks, tours, and short hikes. With these best short hikes around Kathmandu, you can enjoy your days more excitedly.

In this blog, we will cover the most popular short hikes around Kathmandu that aren’t easy and offer the best hiking experience with stunning views.

8. Shivapuri Day Hiking

Shivapuri Day Hiking is one of Kathmandu’s best short hiking destinations, offering stunning views of the Langtang mountain ranges. Shivapuri is the second-highest hill station in Kathmandu Valley after Fulchowki and the home of Shivapuri National Park.

This hike offers mountain views, and you can expect to see different flora and fauna throughout the trek. It’s fascinating to get views of iconic mountain peaks like Langtang Lirung (7,234m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), and Dorje Lakpa (6,966m) after just 6-7 hours of hiking.

The best thing about the Shivapuri Day Hiking is that you will enjoy hiking through Nepal’s natural beauty in just a day. In addition, you will also get to explore Budhanilkantha Temple and Nagi Monastery, which showcase the cultural diversity of Nepal.

Highlights

• Stunning mountain views, including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and Dorje Lakpa
• Shivapuri National Park
• Exploration of Budhanilkantha Temple
• Exploring Nagi Monastery and meeting monks

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu – Budhanilkantha – Shivapuri – Budhanikantha – Kathmandu
• Altitude: 2,732m (8,963ft)
• Best Time: Autumn and Spring
• Overall Duration: 1.5 Hours Drive and 7-8 hours Hike
• Transportation: Private car/Public taxi or public bus
• Permits: Shuvapuri National Park Permit (NPR 1000 for foreigners, NPR 600 for SAARC Nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepali)

Shivapuri Day Hiking Itinerary

Day 01

• 45 minutes drive to Budhanilkantha from Kathmandu
• Hike from Budhanilkantha to Shivapuri (4-5 hours)
• Shivapuri to Budhanilkantha Hike (4-5 hours)
• Drive from Budhanilkantha to Kathmandu (45 minutes)

7. Chandragiri Day Hiking (1 Day)

Chandragiri is one of the popular destinations in Kathmandu Valley that offers an exciting hiking experience. It is popular with tourists and locals excited about day hikes in Nepal.

Within a day, you can hike to Chandragiri and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of several mountain ranges, including Mt. Everest and Annapurna. Located at 2,551m, Chandragiri offers the beautiful scenario of Kathmandu Valley, lush forest, and mountain peaks with a clear blue sky.

Also, Chandragiri is widely popular among several visitors because of the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple. It’s a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva where different travelers stop to pay their respects. The Chandragiri Day Hiking is a relatively easy hike and is fit for every fitness level.

Imagine being at the top of the hill and seeing the extraordinary view of the entire Kathmandu valley with its iconic mountain ranges. With stunning mountain views and easy hikes, Chandragiri day hiking is one of the best short hikes around Kathmandu.

Highlights

• Breathtaking panoramic views of mountain ranges, including the Langtang and Annapurna ranges,
• Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple – Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
• The stunning natural beauty of Nepal includes lush forests, seasonal rhododendron blooming, etc.
• Sunrise and Sunset views from the Hilltop

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu – Matatirtha Temple – Chhap Bhanjyang – Chadragiri Hill – Hatiband Resort – Kathmandu
• Altitude: 2,551m/8,369ft
• Best Time: Autumn and Spring
• Overall Duration: 2 hours of driving and 6-7 hours of hiking
• Transportation: Private Car/Public Bus/Cable Car

Chandragiri Day Hiking Itinerary

Day 01

• Forty-five-minute scenic drive from Kathmandu to Matatirtha Temple, Thankot
• Hiking for 3 hours to reach Chhap Bhanjyang from Matatirtha Temple
• 1-1.5 hours hike to reach Chandragiri Hill from Chhap Bhanjyang
• Hike to Hattiban Resort from Chandragiri Hill (3 hours)
• Drive back to Kathmandu from the Hattiban Resort (1 hour)

6. Sundarijal Hike from Kathmandu

Sundarijal, located in the northern part of the Kathmandu Valley, is a popular short hike in Nepal. It is also the gateway to several treks, including the Langtang Valley Trek. Sundarijal Hike can gain popularity among local and foreign hikers because of the stunning mountain views, natural beauty, and picturesque villages.

This hike takes you through the natural and cultural diversity of the Kathmandu Valley as you encounter several plants, wildfires, and local people with their cultural values.

It is one of the best short hikes around Kathmandu and offers a beautiful panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley and several mountains. Under a clear sky, you can have stunning views of the Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, and Jugal Himal (6,979m).

The Sundarijal Hike is a relatively easy trek; it fits every age group and fitness level. One of your best hiking experiences is exploring the Sundarijal Waterfall and Tarebhir Waterfall. With the views, you can blend in with the natural beauty of the Kathmandu Valley.

Along the way, you can even visit Nagi Gompa, a Tibetan monastery that is one of the most popular Buddhist pilgrimage sites. On reaching the hilltop of Sundarijal, you can feel the essence of the tranquil atmosphere. Also, there are a few picnic spots to take a break and enjoy snacks.

Trip Highlights

• Scenic waterfalls like Sundarijal waterfall and Tarbhir waterfall during the trail hike.
  Sundarijal Dam
• Lush and diverse forest offering stunning views
• Glimpses of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Jugal Himal mountain ranges on a clear sky.
• Beautiful panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Points: Kathmandu – Sundaijal Water Reservoir – Shivapuri National Park – Shivapuri Peak – Kathmandu
• Altitude: Sudarijal Peak (2,465m/8,087ft)
• Best Time: October to April
• Overall Duration: 1-2 hours of driving and 6-7 hours hiking
• Transportation: Private car/Public Bus/Taxi
• Permits: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Permit

Sundarijal Hike Itinerary

Day 01

• Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal Water Reservoir (45 minutes)
• Hike to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park from Sundarijal Water Reservoir (2-3 hours).
• Hike to the top of Shivapur Peak from Shivapuri National Park (4-5 hours).
• Drive back to Kathmandu (45 minutes).

5. Nagarjun Hike

Nagarjun Hike is yet another short but best hike around Kathmandu Valley that offers the best hiking experience in Nepal with stunning views of Kathmandu Valley and nearby mountain ranges.

Even with the day’s limitations in Nepal, you can still do this trek, as it can be completed in a day. It will be a great memory to be back with the beautiful scenery of Nepal, panoramic views of mountain ranges, and the atmosphere of Nepal.

The Nagarjun hike takes you through several natural beauties of Nepal, including the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, home to various wildlife. Alongside the natural beauty, you can glimpse stunning mountain peaks like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, etc.

The tails of the Nagarjun hike are well-maintained and wind through forests and meadows. Along the way, you will pass by several temples and monasteries, including Jamacho Gumba, a Buddhist monastery.

On reaching the top of Nagarjun Hill, you can have extraordinary views of the surrounding hills and Kathmandu Valley. It also offers a viewpoint where you can take photographs to keep as a memory of visiting Nepal.

Trip Highlights

• Hike through several lush forests and meadows.
• Explore different temples and monasteries, including Jamacho Gumba, a Buddhist monastery.
• Stunning views of the mountain ranges, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, etc.
• A beautiful panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley from the hilltop
• There are several opportunities for photography from this viewpoint.

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu – Balaju – Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park – Nagarjun Hill – Kathmandu
• Altitude: Nagarjun Hill (2,095m/6,873ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trip Duration: About an hour of driving and 6-7 hours of hiking
• Permits: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Permit
• Best Time: Autumn and Spring
• Transportation: Private Car/Bus/Taxi

Nagarjun Day Hiking Itinerary

Day 01

• Drive from Kathmandu to Balaju (30 minutes).
• Hike from Balaju to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park (6-7 hours)
• Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to Nagarjun Hill

4. Phulchowki Day Hiking

Phulchowki Day Hiking is one of the best and shortest hiking destinations around Kathmandu Valley and is easily accessible. It offers a scenic view of the different flora and fauna throughout the trek.

With just a day of hiking, you can enjoy stunning views of different ranges, picturesque villages, and lush landscapes. It also offers several opportunities where you can get to know more about the cultural diversity of Nepal, as you will encounter several groups with cultural differences.

As Phulchowki Hill (2,782m) is the highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley, it offers a stunning viewpoint for a panoramic view of Kathmandu city. This hike is also popular among students as it takes them through the Godawari Botanical Garden, where they can learn about the available plants.

Another popular stop point on this hike is Phulchowki Mai Temple, which lies at the summit of Phulchowki Hill. On a clear day, you can also have views of Mount Everest (8848.86m).

The Phulchowki Hike is a short yet rewarding hike around Kathmandu that fits every fitness level and age group. This hike is best for refreshment and to spend more time with the environment of Nepal.

Highlights

• Scenic drive from Kathmandu city to Godawari Botanical Garden
• Stunning view of the different mountain ranges and Mt. Everest on a clear day.
• Hiking experience on the tallest hill around Kathmandu Valley, Phulchowki Hill
• Explore and learn about different flora and fauna in the Godawari Botanical Garden.
• Visit Phulchowki Mai Temple at the summit of Phulchowki Hill and pay respect.
• Explore the natural beauty and serenity on the hilltop of Phulchowki Hill.

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu – Godawari Botanical Garden – Phulchowki Hill – Godawari – Kathmandu
• Altitude: Phulchowki Hill (2,782m)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trip Duration: 2 hours of driving and 8-9 hours of hiking
• Permits: Godwari Botanical Gard Entrance Fee (NPR 400 for foreigners, NPR 200 for SAARC national Citizens, and NPR 100 for Nepali Citizens)
• Best times for Phulchowki Hike: Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May)
• Transportation: Private Car/Taxi/Public taxi, or public bus

Phulchowki Day Hiking Itinerary

Day 01

• 1-hour scenic drive from Kathmandu to Botanical Garden
• Exploring the Botanical Garden and hiking to Phulchowki Hill (4-5 hours)
• Enjoying the stunning views from the hilltop and hiking back to the Botanical Garden (4-5 hours)
• Driving back to Kathmandu from Godawari Botanical Garden (1 hour)

3. Day Hike to Namobudhha

The Namobuddha Day Hike can be longer, but the overall hiking experience is exciting with this stunning trip. The Namobuddha Hike takes you to the sacred Buddhist site of Namobuddha, located about 40 kilometers east of Kathmandu.

With the Namobuddha Day Hike, you can experience the beautiful scenarios of Nepal with two Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Namobuddha Monastery and Namobuddha Stupa. It is known for its cultural and historical significance and the natural beauty of the surroundings.

It is popular amongst tourists and locals, offering beautiful scenes and a destination where the Buddhist community can visit and pay their respects. The trail of the day hike to Namobuddha takes you through rhodendrons and pine forests, offering you a better glimpse of Nepal’s natural beauty.

Namobuddha Monastery, the Buddhist pilgrimage site you will explore on this hike, is home to a large community of monks. It is a beautiful Tibetan-style monastery where you can take a break and learn more about Buddhist culture.

In addition, when you keep following the trail, you will see Namobudhha Stupa, another Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal. It has a large white dome that is said to contain the relics of the Buddha.

Highlights

• Scenic Drive to Dhulikhel, from where the hike starts
• Exploring one of the Buddhist pilgrimage sites of Nepa, Namobuddha Monastery
• Following the trail, reach Namobuddha Stupa, which has a large dome and is said to contain relics of Buddha.
• Having beautiful views of the nearby picturesque villages, terraced landscapes, and stunning lush forest
• Hiking through rhododendron and pin forests

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu – Dhulikhel – Namobuddha Monastery – Namobuddha Stupa – Panauti – Kathmandu
• Altitude: 1,750m/5,742ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trip Duration: 2-3 hours of driving and 5-6 hours of hiking
• Best Time for Namobuddha Day Hiking: Autumn and Spring
• Transportation: Private car, Taxi or Public Bus

Namobuddha Day Hiking Itinerary

Day 01

• Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel (1.5-2 hours)
• Hiking to reach Namobuddha Monastery (3-4 hours), one of the popular Buddhist pilgrimage sites of Nepal
• Following the trail to reach Namobuddha Stupa from Namobuddha Monastery (10-20 minutes)
• Having views of the natural beauty of the surroundings
• Hiking from Namobuddha Stupa to Panauti (2-3 hours)
• Drive back to Kathmandu from Panauti (1-2 hours)

2. Chisapani Hiking Trail (1-Day)

Chisapani Hike is one of the most popular and best hiking experiences you can get within a day of hiking. Chisapani is a small village offering a hiking destination with stunning mountain views, including Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa.

If outdoor adventure excites you and you want a short hiking experience around Kathmandu, you should try Chisapani Hiking.

This hike provides the best view of the serene natural beauty, lush landscapes, and stunning mountain ranges. The hike begins at Sundarijal, a small village about 15 kilometers from Kathmandu. The trail from Sundarijal takes you through dense forests where you can encounter a wide variety of flora and fauna.

On reaching Chisapani, you can see several guesthouses and restaurants where you can rest and refuel your energy. You can also hike to Chisapani View Tower, which can be reached in 30 minutes from the village.

Highlights

• Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal
• Exploring Sundarijal Water Reservoir and hiking through the dense forest following the trail
• Hiking through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
• Stunning views of mountain ranges, including Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa
• A beautiful panoramic view of lush landscapes and mountain ranges from Chisapani View Tower

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu – Sundarijal, Chisapani – Sundarijal – Kathmandu
• Altitude: 2,195m/7,201ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trip Duration: 1-2 hours of driving and 6-7 hours of hiking
• Best Time for Chisapani Hiking Trail: Autumn and Spring
• Permits: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Permit
• Transportation: Private Car/Public Bus/Taxi

Chisapani Hiking Trail Itinerary

Day 01

• Private car/taxi drive to reach Sundarijal from Kathmandu (45 minutes – 1 hour)
• Hiking through the dense forest of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to reach Chisapani (3-4 hours)
• Enjoying the serene natural beauty and lush landscapes and hiking for 30 minutes to reach Chisapani View Point
• Getting the views of stunning mountain ranges from the viewpoint and hiking back to Sundarijal (3-4 hours)
• Drive back to Kathmandu from Sundarijal (45 minutes – 1 hour)

1. Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail

Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail is the best hiking experience in Nepal. It is one of the most popular hiking destinations that tourists and locals prefer. Nagarkot Hill Station offers stunning views of different mountain ranges, including the iconic Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

With this short hike around Kathmandu, you can get yourself to the beautiful natural beauty of Nepal, stunning terraced landscapes, lush forests, and picturesque villages.

Nagarkot is a popular hill station about 32km east of Kathmandu Valley. The hike takes you through several breathtaking vistas, mountain ranges, meadows, and villages, which makes the hike even more exciting.

The Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail starts from Sankhu, a beautiful village located 17km north-eastern of Kathmandu. Hiking through lush forests and meadows while experiencing the best view of the mountain ranges is a completely different experience.

The best part of this hike is the sunrise and sunset views from the hilltop of Nagarkot. With this hike, you will have a beautiful sunrise view with stunning views of several mountain ranges.

Also, this hike is relatively easy and fits everyone who can walk for 4-5 hours on average at a normal pace. Are you excited to have the best short hike around Kathmandu? Get the hike to Nagarkot and enjoy the best one-day hike that takes you through breathtaking natural beauty, stunning mountain ranges, and sunrise/sunset views.

The Nagarkot View Tower is one of the best viewpoints for a stunning view. The view tower is likely to get crowded during the peak season, but you can enjoy the views from the balcony of the hotel rooms, too.

Do you want a better package for the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail? Get the best itinerary for the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail with Blue Lake Adventure today and enjoy your better days in Nepal, exploring the natural beauty of Nepal with stunning mountain views.

Highlights

• Spectacular views of the different mountain ranges, including the tallest mountain in Nepal, Mt. Everest
• Scenic drive to Sankhu from Kathmandu, where you can also view roadside temples.
• View of the stunning mountain ranges like Lhotse and Makalu
• Visiting the Tamang Villages and getting to know more about the cultural diversity
• Breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset from the Nagarkot View Tower or from the balcony of the hotel room
• Hiking on the trail that takes you through several terraced fields, lush landscapes, meadows and dense forests

Trip Details

• Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu – Sankhu – Nagarkot – Changunaryan – Kathmandu
• Altitude: Nagarkot (2,195m/7,201ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trip Duration: 2-3 hours of driving and 5-6 hours of hiking
• Best Time for Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail: Autumn and Spring
• Transportation: Private car/taxi/public bus

Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail Itinerary

Day 01

• Scenic Drive from Kathmandu Sankhu (1-1.5 hours)
• Hike from Sankhu to Nagarkot hilltop. (3-4 hours)
• Explore the nearby villages, hotels, and Nagarkot View Tower, which offers a stunning view of sunrise, sunset, and mountain ranges.
• Hike to Changunarayan from Nagarkot (2-3 hours)
• Drive back to Kathmandu from Changunarayan (1-1.5 hours)

Additional Information

If you plan to have any short hikes around Kathmandu mentioned above, then you should know some of the basic things that will make your hike even more exciting and easy.

Best time to have a Short Hike Around Kathmandu

If you are looking for a short hike around Kathmandu, you need to consider the best time to get the best views and experience. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to hike around Kathmandu.

Spring (March to May)

• Spring in Nepal offers mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming rhododendron forests, adding color to the landscapes.
• This season has stable weather with comfortable temperatures, making it pleasant for hiking.
• This season lets you have clear views of the stunning mountains, including the Himalayan peaks.
• You can enjoy the lush green landscapes and blossoms in the valley.

Autumn (September to November)

• This season offers the best hiking experience with stunning mountain views, clear skies, stable weather, and pleasant temperatures.
• Dust is washed away by the monsoon rains, which makes the air crisp and views exceptionally clear.
• Stable weather makes hiking perfect, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations.

While autumn and spring are considered the best seasons to have a short hike around Kathmandu, it is still worth noting that short hikes can be done throughout the year.

Summer (June to August) receives heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy and slippery. Even the landscapes are a concern in some of the areas. Because of this, the summer season is less popular and favorable for short hikes around Kathmandu.

The winter (December to February) can be ideal for short hikes around Kathmandu compared to the summer if you are prepared for colder nights. The nights in Kathmandu are colder during the winter. Also, the hilltop views are foggy, and the places can receive snowfalls, too. The foggy mornings can hide the views of the mountain ranges and sunrises.

Packing List for Short Hike in Nepal

While hiking to different hilltops in Kathmandu Valley, you need to get prepared with the necessary packing lists that will assist you better throughout the hike. Here are some recommended packing lists you must have during the short hikes around Kathmandu Valley.

• Comfortable and sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
• Daypack to carry your essentials
• Water and extra water bottles
• Snacks (energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits)
• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Lightweight, breathable hiking pants or shorts
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Sunglasses for UV Protection
• Caps
• Maps or guidebooks
• Cash (Nepali rupees; changes are required)
• Personal Identifications (Passport, ID, etc.)

Final Say on Best Short Hikes around Kathmandu

With the short hikes around Kathmandu Valley, you can get the best experience of exploring the natural beauty of Nepal, stunning mountain views, and different villages. You will find a short and easy way to learn more about the cultural significance of Nepal.

Even for a short time, you can explore the best of Nepal, which will remain forever in your memories. Are you excited to have different short hikes in Nepal? With these best 8 short hikes around Kathmandu Valley, you won’t just enjoy the stunning visuals but will also be able to learn more about Nepal and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Get it planned, and visit different hiking destinations around Kathmandu that can be completed in a day.

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