Short Trek around Kathmandu Valley
Swiss Family Treks Blog Posting
A short trek around Kathmandu valley might be everything you are looking for. Especially, if you have little time in hand, but want to explore the irresistible natural and cultural beauty of Nepal, short treks around Kathmandu are the best option for you.
The breathtaking scenery of the snow-covered mountains and the bird-eye view of the stunning Kathmandu valley are the highlights of short treks in Kathmandu. Along with the views are several priceless cultural monuments that tell the story of the rich history of Nepal. The trek might be short, but the memories you make will stay for a lifetime.
Nagarkot Hiking
Nagarkot Hiking is one of the most popular destinations in Kathmandu. The beautiful panorama of mountains and the fresh and calming atmosphere of Nagarkot are the specialties of the hike. The day hike includes the stunning view of the sunrise over the snow-covered giants. You can view mountains like Ganesh, Manaslu, and other stunning peaks of the Langtang Range. You can see the diverse geography of Nepal in such a short distance.
You will also come across several Brahmin and Tamang villages en route to Changunarayan. Their traditional thatched roof and way of living brings a unique touch to the hike. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Changunarayan presents the ancient architecture of the temple, which makes the temple stand out. You will learn a little bit more about the culture of Nepal as you walk around the courtyard of the temple, feeling as if you have traveled back in time. The trek is short and easy, only taking 3 to 4 hours.
Chisapani Hiking
Chisapani Hike is a stunning combination of eye-catching scenery, peaceful nature, and an unforgettable experience of Nepalese culture. The hiking trail passes through Sundarijal, which is known to be one of the most beautiful places around Kathmandu. The route gives you a cultural experience as you visit several temples and stupas along the way.
The destination is only 15km away from Kathmandu and yet, feels far away from the bustling city life. The dense forests of Shivapuri National Park block you from the noise of the bustling city, giving you a chance to forget yourself in amid of nature. The hike takes 3 to 4 hours. As you reach your destination in Chisapani, the beautiful sight of Mt. Ganesh, the Langtang range, along with a panorama of other mountain ranges greet you. If you want to, you can also stay in Chisapani overnight to enjoy the view of the sun rising from the top of these stunning mountains. Chisapani is also the starting point for treks to the Langtang region as well as Gosainkunda treks.
Champa Devi Hiking
The hill of Champa Devi (2278m) is one of the must-visit sites of Nepal. The hike is accompanied by the marvelous view of mountain ranges and several precious cultural monuments. Thus, it combines the cultural and natural experience into one, giving you a chance to enjoy the beauty of Nepal in just one day. The spectacular bird-eye view of Kathmandu valley from atop the hill is only a bonus.
Only a half an hour drive away from Kathmandu is the starting point of Champa Devi Hiking Trail. The panorama of mountains you can see from here includes Mt. Everest, Mt. Ganesh, Annapurna range, Langtang Range, and many more. The small temple that resides at the top of the hill gives off a spiritual ambiance to the trip. Several pilgrims visit the temple every year, wishing for a long and prosperous life.
You also come across a small Buddhist Monastery around Champa Devi. The trail includes a series of stone steps as you pass through the pine forests making the hike easier. The sweet sound of several birds living in the forests of Hattiban will accompany you throughout the hike.
Nagarjun Hiking
For short treks in Kathmandu, Nagarjun Hike is one of the most popular destinations. Only a 15-minute drive away from the city, the destination shelters countless natural beauties. The close distance, along with the breathtaking scenery of the landscape, is what makes the hike so enjoyable.
The hiking trail lies within the Shivapuri National Park. You trek through dense forests and come across natural caves and stupas that make the hike even more pleasing. The silent hill of Nagarjun, also known as the Vindya Mountain, is filled with peaceful spiritual energy. Acharya Nagarjun is said to have meditated in these hills, giving it the name Nagarjun.
Jamacho Hill Point, standing at the height of 2128m, is the main attraction of the hike. From the viewpoint, you can see the spectacular view of sparkling mountain ranges, including Mt. Jugal, Ganesh Himal, and the beautiful Langtang Range. You can also view the entire valley of Kathmandu with a bird’s-eye view.
Shivapuri Peak Hiking
Shivapuri Peak Hiking combines the essence of nature and culture into one. Passing through the Shivapuri National Park, the trail takes you to witness several natural wonders as you walk past deep Oak forests. You might come across exotic wildlife like Deer, wild boars, and many endangered species like Rhesus Monkey, Black Bear, and Leopard cat.
As you reach the Shivapuri peak at the altitude of 2732m, the stunning view of the mountains will amaze you. Enjoy the majestic views of Mt. Everest, Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang ranges, Dorje Lakpa, Annapurna Range, and many more small peaks.
Along the 6-7-hour hike, you will also pass by the Nagi Gompa that is of immense value to Buddhist pilgrims. This beautifully structured gompa is one of the highlights of this hike. A trek is a perfect option for people wanting to spend a peaceful time amid nature and away from the busy city life.
Other Day Trips or Overnight Trips
You can enjoy various day trips in and around Kathmandu Valley. One of the most popular among these day trips is the UNESCO World Heritage Site visit, where you can visit different architectural monuments of the Kathmandu valley.
These sites include several temples and stupas. Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Budhanikantha Temple, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square are some of the sites you get to visit in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites tour. Along with visiting these sites, you will also get to explore the traditional spice markets and taste different Nepali delicacies as well.
Overnight trips in and around Kathmandu are also a great option to explore the beauty of the Himalayan country. Namobuddha Trek and Hattiban Trek are some of the popular choices for an overnight stay trip. You can also enjoy overnight trips in places like Dhulikhel, Kakani, Nuwakot, Nagarkot, Shivapuri, and so on. If you want to take part in adventure activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping, then overnight trip to The Last Resort in Sindhupalchowk district.
Best Time
The most favorable time for trekking in and around Kathmandu is the season of autumn. This season falls between September and December. The autumn season rarely receives heavy rain, and the visibility is also evident. You can enjoy the sight of the magnificent mountains without any obstruction. Also, the trekking routes are dry, and the temperature is also perfect for trekking activities.
You can also enjoy short treks around Kathmandu during the spring. The time between March and May is the spring season. The weather condition is similar to that of autumn but accompanied by the sweet fragrance of flowers.
You can enjoy day trips like the UNESCO World Heritage sites tour throughout the year. Although the best time to enjoy short treks around Kathmandu is during spring and autumn, you can also enjoy these treks during winter and summer. However, you might face the trouble of low visibility and slippery roads during winter and monsoon seasons, respectively.
Family Treks and Individual Treks
Most of the day, treks in Kathmandu are short and easy. These treks are suitable for people of all ages and interests. If you are looking for a way to get away from the hectic everyday life and enjoy some time with your family and friends amid nature, then these short treks are an excellent option. With little physical activity, you can still enjoy these day treks to make the best memories in Nepal.
These short treks to Nagarkot, Namobuddha, and several UNESCO World Heritage sites are also suitable for solo travel. However, if you plan to go on a solo trek in the area of the national park like Shivapuri, it is better to be accompanied by an experienced travel guide who knows the area well.
Conclusion
If you have a short time in hand or want to enjoy short leisure treks in Nepal, Kathmandu Valley is the most pleasant place to do so. You can enjoy the stunning views of mountains as well as experience the local culture while not putting a dent into your pockets. Short treks in Kathmandu are the best way to enjoy the essence of traveling in the mountain regions of Nepal in a short time.
Back To Overview
