Hiking in Nepal

Hiking in Nepal is the best way to explore the beauty of Nepal in a short time. It is for those people who want to begin their trekking journey. Trekking in Nepal is a bit more difficult than hiking. Normally the hiking destinations are at low altitudes. Walking on the countryside hill with beautiful views of hills and mountains is a pleasing experience.  Similarly, people can go hiking with family, partners, friends, or even solo. Hikes are easy walking or climbing which lasts for a day or two.

Not all people who travel to Nepal have long holidays. But, don’t worry Nepal has something to offer for everyone. Even if you have one day in Nepal, you can still see beautiful hills and mountains. Kathmandu Valley itself is a beautiful city to visit. However, if you want to escape from the city and explore nature day hikes in the best option. Hiking around Kathmandu Valley is easier and more accessible. Also, apart from Kathmandu, you can go hiking around beautiful Pokhara city.

Best Day Hiking in Nepal – Kathmandu Valley

Shivapuri Hike

The Shivapuri hike is the most popular day hike near Kathmandu Valley. Also, perhaps the best day hikes in Nepal. Shivapuri lies on the second-highest hill near Kathmandu. The highest point of this hike is 2563 m. The hike begins from Budhanilkantha. It is also the starting point of Shivapuri National Park.

Budhanilkantha is a holy place for Hindu people. It features the statue of Lord Bishnu floating in a coil of snakes. Before entering the National Park you need to submit the permit card. Similarly, after entering the national park, you will hike around 2 km to reach Nagi Gumba. In the Gumba, you will see prayer flags, and monks doing their work. Likewise, during the hike, you will see beautiful views of emerging peaks. The trail is through a dense forest. Likewise, you will get to see Bhagdwar. It means “Tiger Gateway”. Around the Bagdwar you will see Yogis and Sadhus. After reaching the summit of Shivapuri, you will see beautiful views of the Langtang ranges.

Champadevi Hike

One of the best day hikes in Nepal near Kathmandu Valley is the Champadevi Hike. This day hike is best for nature lovers and outdoor fanatics. It lies in the southeast of Kathmandu. Also, the highest point of this hike is 2200 meters. You can call it a cultural hike as well. It is because you will explore Hindu Holy places during the hike. Similarly, the hike rewards beautiful views of mountains and valleys.

The hike begins with a drive from Ratna Park to the Khahare Bus stop. After that, you will see an indicator of the Champa Devi Hiking Trail indicator. The first part of the walk is on the road. However, you can enjoy the views of Kathmandu. Likewise, after the end of the road, you will see a small Buddhist stupa. From the stupa, you will get to see the amazing views of the valley. Also, the popular viewpoint of this hike is Bosan Danda. The viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Kathmandu Valley. The hiking trails to Champadevi Summit are through lush green hills. You will see several plants, birds, and animals if you are lucky. To enjoy the more clear views you need to walk an extra 2 km from the summit. You can see the prayer flags and worshiping atmosphere around Champadevi Temple.

Pulchowki Hike

It is the highest hill near Kathmandu valley at 2782 meters. It lies in the southern part of Kathmandu. The hike offers beautiful views of Mt. Annapurna and Gaurishankar. Similarly, you will walk through sub-tropical forests. The forests offer rhododendron trees,  oak trees, orchids, birds, butterflies, etc. Likewise, a botanical garden offers different kinds of plants and flowers.

The trip starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Godawari. It is 14 km south of Kathmandu. If you are a solo hiker then you can take a public bus as well. First, you will explore the botanic garden. You will find more than 500 varieties of plants in the garden. Similarly, you will climb up the hill through a sub-tropical forest. As you reach the top of the hill, you will see Phulchiwki Mai. Likewise, prayer flags around the temples and hills. We suggest you bring a camera and binoculars. The views from the top are simply amazing. The environment during the hike is calm and peaceful. If you need peace in your body and mind, then this hike is the best option.

Nagarjun Hike

Another popular hike in Nepal near Kathmandu is the Nagarjuna Hike. Likewise, it is closer to the tourist area of Thamel. This hike is best for nomads who have a short period in Nepal. It offers stunning views of Kathmandu Valley and Langtang ranges. Also, you will hike up to the highest point of 2150 meters. At this point, you will see Jamacho Gumba. It is another beautiful attraction of this hike. The prayer flags and the atmosphere around the Gumba is amazing.

Nagarjun hike begins from Balaju. There is a gateway to the hiking trail. The trail is really easy. You can see many signs of the directions of the route. From Balaju it will take around 2-3 hours to reach the top of the hill. During the hike, you will explore green forests, birds, animals, etc. If you are lucky enough you may see the wild animals. Jamacho Gumba is a Buddhist Monastery. You can see monks over there worshiping in the Gumba.

Multi Days Hiking in Nepal

Chisapani Nagarkot Hike

Chisapani Nagarkot Hike is the most popular hiking among multi-day hikes in Nepal. This is a short and easy hike around Kathmandu Valley. The hike goes up to the height of 2175 meters. The hike offers typical Nepalese villages and their lifestyle. The classic trail of this hike offers magnificent views of hills and mountain ranges. Similarly, this hike is a great option for relaxing your body and mind too. Likewise, you will see the eye-catching views of mountains from the view tower of Nagarkot.

The journey starts with a scenic drive to Sundari Jal. After that, the trail will take you to Chisapani after walking for 4-5 hours. Chisapani means “Coldwater”. During the walk, you will get to see natural beauty and beautiful villages. Similarly, the next destination is Nagarkot. From Chisapani, you will walk around 6 hours to reach Nagarkot. The full day of the walk offers amazing villages, local people, local meals, etc. The main attraction of this hike is the mind-blowing views of Langtang ranges, Mt. Manalsu, Ganesh Himal, etc. Also, another feature of this Hike is the Changu Narayan temple. It is the historical holy place of Lord Vishnu.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Kathmandu to Sundarijal to Chisapani

Day 02: Chispani to Nagarkot (6-7 hours)

Day 03: Nagarkot to Kathmandu via Changu Narayan (3-4 hours)

Dhulikhel Namobudhha Balthali Hike

Another popular multi-day hike in Nepal near Kathmandu is the Dhulukhel Namobuddha Balthali hike. It is one of the easy hikes or treks around Kathmandu Valley. It is 3 days hike at a maximum height of 2500 meters. The hike offers beautiful countryside views along with Himalchuli and Karyolung Himal.

Your trip begins with an hour’s ride to Dhulikhel from Kathmandu. Then, the hike starts through off-beaten paths. Similarly, you will begin to see small villages of Tamang and Newars communities.  Similarly, you will visit Namobuddha Monastery. It is a sacred place for Buddhist pilgrims. Also, it has religious importance as there is a grave of Prince Shemchen Chempo. As per the belief of the old people, the monastery mirrors the sign of kindness and sacrifice.

The other best part of this hike is Balthali Village. You will walk around a typical Nepali village. Similarly, you can enjoy breakfast with the sunrise views. Likewise, hiking around the village offers artful terrace fields, temples, and the Panauti River. 

Itinerary:

Day 01: Kathmandu to Dhulikhel

Day 02: Trek to Namobuddha

Day 03: Trek to Balthali and return to Kathmandu

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Furthermore, there are many hiking trails around Nepal apart from Kathmandu. But, doing these best hikes near Kathmandu lets you explore beautiful hills, mountains, and villages. Similarly, in a quick time, you can know the local lifestyle of the people. Above all, Overland Trek Nepal organizes memorable trips for global travelers. To know more about travel, tours, and trekking in Nepal, please contact our expert.