5 Best Short Treks Near Kathmandu Valley
5 Best Short Treks Near Kathmandu Valley
Are you looking for the best short treks near Kathmandu Valley? If yes, then you are in the right place. This blog provides information about the five best short treks near Kathmandu Valley.
Nepal is a remarkable focal point for trekking lovers. This Himalayan country is the best place for backpackers. Every year, thousands of tourists come to Nepal for trekking. Trekking in Nepal is a great way to experience natural beauty and cultural heritage.
You can find easy, moderate, and challenging trekking routes in Nepal. Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Mustang, and Manaslu regions are famous for trekking in Nepal. But if you have a short time and can’t go to high altitude, you can choose a trip around Kathmandu Valley. Similarly, if you are with your family and looking for an easy trek, you can opt for a trip around Kathmandu Valley.
Kathmandu is a beautiful valley surrounded by green hills. Trekking near Kathmandu lets you discover some of the best views around the valley. The medieval town of Kathmandu is also the capital of Nepal.
Compared to more popular trekking areas, these trails are less crowded, offering a peaceful experience. Trekking routes often pass through small villages and allow you to interact with local communities. According to Lonely Planet in 2019, this valley is one of the best five travel destinations in the world.
Enjoy Your Vacation Near Kathmandu Valley
It is a beautiful trekking area for those who want to travel without the risk of natural disasters. These are easy, short, moderate-level hiking trails suitable for all age groups. The villages near Kathmandu are far from modernity and offer a chance to experience traditional village life. Treks around the valley give you a close look at typical Nepalese rural life and their culture.
The trekking routes offer scenic views of lush landscapes, green hills, terraced fields, and the Himalayas. Along the way, you can visit temples, monasteries, stupas, and farmers working in the fields.
The Kathmandu Valley is a cultural hub with a rich history and ancient temples. So, you can also include world heritage sites in Kathmandu on your trip. Visiting World Heritage Sites allows you to explore ancient palaces, monasteries, and temples. Autumn and spring are generally the best times for trekking in Nepal. But since it is an easy low-altitude trek, you can do it as per your wishes and holiday schedule throughout the year. In autumn and spring, the weather is pleasant, and the scenery of the mountains is clear and beautiful.
5 Best Short Treks near Kathmandu Valley:
1. Namobuddha Trek: 2 Days
Namobuddha Trek is one of the five best short treks near Kathmandu Valley. It is an easy and enjoyable trek near Kathmandu. Nepal is renowned for its picturesque landscape, diverse culture, and spiritual significance.
The Namobuddha trek is a unique experience among the many trekking routes. This trek offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.
The trek includes historical places like Namobuddha and Panauti. Namobuddha—from this name, you can guess that this place is related to Lord Buddha. Yes, this place has an artistic, well-preserved, and beautiful monastery on a hill. This trek is an excellent way to explore traditional villages and sacred sites.
Nepal’s third-most important Buddhist pilgrimage site, Namobuddha, attracts many tourists. The monastery is located at an altitude of 1750 meters above sea level. Visit a monastery with Buddhist flags, where you can feel the positive vibes. The place offers 360-degree views of the valley below, making it a popular trek among visitors.
The area around the monastery is tranquil. You can feel the positive vibrations around it and cannot make any noise around it. You can take pictures outside the monastery, but it is prohibited inside.
Start Your Trek
The trek also takes you to Panauti village. Panauti is a small, beautiful town inhabited by the Newar community. You can look closely at the Newar community’s traditional lifestyle. The people living in this city believe that the city is standing on a rock, so disasters like earthquakes cannot affect the city.
The journey starts with a 2-hour drive from Kathmandu to Kavre Bhanjang. From Kavre Bhanjang, you will trek through lush green forests and traditional villages. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, charming hamlets, and terraced farmlands. You can get ample opportunities to interact with locals and observe their way of life. This place offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Himalayan range. The highlight of the trek is the Namobuddha Monastery, where you are rewarded with awe-inspiring views and a profound sense of peace.
There are comfortable lodges for accommodation and food near the monastery. After breakfast, you will start the trek to Panauti the next day. The trail descends through picturesque landscapes, small villages, and farmlands.
After 3 to 4 hours of walking, you will reach Panauti. Panauti is a small town known for its Newari architecture and cultural heritage. Explore ancient temples, courtyards, and streets in Panauti. From there, you will drive back to Kathmandu.
Itinerary
1st Day: Drive Kathmandu to Kavre Bhanjyang (2 hours) and trek to Namobuddha (2 to 3 hours).
2nd Day: Namobuddha to Panauti (3 to 4 hours walk) and drive to Kathmandu (2 hours).
Visit Also: Day Hikes, Hiking Trail, Day Hike in Nepal
2. Nagarkot Trek: 3 Days
Full of high peaks and rich cultural heritage, Nepal is a paradise for trekkers. Among many trekking destinations, the Nagarkot trek stands out as a journey that captures the essence of Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Nagarkot Trek is another of the five best short treks near Kathmandu Valley. It is a short and easy trek you can complete in three days. The hike takes you away from the hustle and bustle of city life and allows you to explore the region’s cultural aspects outside the valley.
This trek offers a unique opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas. The trek showcases the beauty of Nepal’s countryside and allows hikers to connect with nature and local life. You can explore ancient pagodas, monasteries, and terraced areas.
Start Your Trek
After a 45-minute drive from Kathmandu, you reach Sundarijal, where the trek begins. After five hours of walking, you will reach Chisapani. The trail passes through the forest of Shivapuri National Park. Shivapuri National Park offers an opportunity to observe local flora and fauna. After about 5 hours of walking, you will reach the beautiful hill village of Chisapani.
Chisapani means “cold water,” where the weather is always excellent. The village is a mixed settlement of ethnic groups. You can interact with the locals and get involved with their lifestyle. The teahouses are family-friendly and have good basic facilities but are not luxurious.
The next day, after breakfast, you will start walking to Nagarkot. The trail descends through the forest and then ascends. The route is well-defined and offers a mix of uphill and downhill sections. You will reach Nagarkot in around 6 hours, passing through charming villages and terraced areas.
Nagarkot- Best Viewpoint for Sunrise and Sunset
At an altitude of 2,195 meters above sea level, Nagarkot gives you a real taste of natural beauty. Nagarkot is the highest point on this trek. You can find basic to luxurious hotels in Nagarkot. Early the next morning, you will go to the hill station for a sunrise view. Nagarkot is the most popular destination near Kathmandu for sunrise and sunset views. On a clear day, you can see the Annapurna range, Manaslu range, Langtang range, etc., from this hill station. The view of the sunrise from here is breathtaking and mesmerizing.
After breakfast, you will start the journey to Chagunarayan Temple. This temple is also a UNESCO heritage site. It is the oldest temple in Kathmandu Valley, built in the 5th century. After visiting Changunarayan, you will drive to Kathmandu.
Itinerary
1st Day: Drive to Sundarijal (an hour) and trek to Chispani (5 to 6 hours).
2nd Day: Chisapani to Nagarkot (6 to 7 hours walk).
3rd Day: Nagarkot to Changunarayan (4 to 5 hours of walking) and drive to Kathmandu (1 hour).
Visit Also: 10 World Heritage sites of Nepal listed in UNESCO
3. Dhulikhel Trek: 4 Days
The Dhulikhel trek is among the five best short treks near Kathmandu Valley. This trek combines a comfortable walk with an opportunity to experience cultural heritage. It also offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of nature. Dhulikhel is a beautiful ancient settlement. The people here are still farmers and follow a traditional way of life.
It is a fascinating journey that you can complete in four days. Dhulikhel is a great option for a short, easy trek near Kathmandu Valley. The area is also famous for wildlife and birdwatching. During February and March, rhododendron flowers make the trail even more beautiful. This route offers magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges of Gaurishankar, Langtang, Ganesh, Dorje Lakpa, etc.
Start Treks
A 45-minute drive from Kathmandu will take you to Sundarijal, where the trek starts. You will reach Chisapani after about 5 hours of walking through the dense forest. In Chisapani, you will feel close to real nature and away from the crowded and noisy city. Chisapani offers a great opportunity to interact with the people of rural areas and learn about their lifestyles.
The next day, after breakfast, we will start walking to Nagarkot. After 6 hours of walking, you can reach Nagarkot at an altitude of 2195 meters. Nagarkot is a famous destination near Kathmandu to experience true nature with a picturesque sunrise and sunset view. Nagarkot offers a variety of hotels and accommodations to meet the needs of travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. You can find basic to luxurious hotels as per your budget.
The next day, you will reach Dhulikhel by walking for 6 hours. It is also a famous place like Nagarkot for sunrise and sunset, amazing landscapes, and snow-capped Himalayan views. It is a historical place to learn about the local culture, traditions, and festivals.
Namobuddh – Visit an Artistic Monastery
Another destination is Namobuddha, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site. The next day, the trail takes you to the famous Namobuddha Monastery. The trail gradually ascends, and you will enter a quiet forest area that leads to the monastery. Situated on a hilltop, this monastery offers 360-degree views of the valley.
This beautiful Buddhist monastery attracts many foreign and domestic tourists. Tourists also visit the monastery for meditation and yoga activities. You can choose to stay overnight at the lodges near the monastery. After visiting Namobuddha, you will drive back to Kathmandu in 2 to 3 hours.
Itinerary
1st Day: Drive to Sundarijal (an hour) and trek to Chisapani, a 5 to 6-hour walk.
2nd Day: Chisapani to Nagarkot, 6 to 7 hours walk.
3rd Day: Nagarkot to Dhulikhel, 6 to 7 hours walk.
4th Day: Dhulikhel to Namobuddha (3 to 4 hours of walking) and drive to Kathmandu (2 to 3 hours).
4. Balthali Village Trek: 5 Days
Balthali Village Trek is among the five best short treks near Kathmandu Valley. This trek is a perfect option for travelers who want to spend a short and easy vacation with their family. If you have limited time and can’t do long days of trekking, then you can opt for Balthali village trekking. Balthali Village Trekking is also a choice for people who want to enjoy nature away from a crowded city.
Located 40 km from Kathmandu, Balthali embodies Nepal’s rural beauty and cultural richness. With a beautiful view of the hills, it is an ideal trip to the countryside. The trip provides an opportunity to see the marvelous views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and others.
Start Trek
The journey begins with a drive from Thamel to Changunarayan, 20 kilometers away. Changunarayan is an ancient Hindu temple located in the Kathmandu Valley. It is considered to be the oldest historical temple in Nepal. The temple is a two-tiered pagoda-style structure built of wood and stone. Its architecture is an excellent example of ancient Newari architecture.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the major deities of Hinduism. This temple has great religious and cultural importance for Nepali people. Changunarayan Temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hilltop location of the temple offers a panoramic view of the valley and surrounding.
After visiting the temple, you will start walking towards Nagarkot. From Changunarayan, you will reach Nagarkot with uphill climbing through lush forests and terraced fields. You will reach Nagarkot by climbing uphill through lush forests and terraced fields. Nagarkot is a popular hill station famous for its stunning views of the Himalayan range. The sunrise and sunset views from the hill station are especially spectacular. It offers views of various peaks, including Gaurishankar, Langtang, Ganesh, Dorje Lakpa, etc.
Visit Dhulikhel – A Charming Town
The next day, the trekking trail takes you to Dhulikhel. This trail also offers an opportunity to explore charming villages and cultural experiences. After a one-night stay at Dhulikhel, you will trek towards Namobuddha village. The main attraction of Namobuddha is the Namobuddha Monastery. It is also a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhism. The monastery represents a vibrant center of Buddhist practice and learning.
The next day, after breakfast, you will walk to Balthali village. A trek to Balthali lets you enjoy panoramic views and explore traditional villages. Balthali is famous for its charming atmosphere, terraced areas, and scenic views. After a one-night stay at Balthali village, you will trek to Khopasi.
On the way, you can visit Sikha village. This village gives a glimpse of traditional Nepalese culture and architecture. About an hour’s walk will take you to Khopasi. Khopasi is home to Indrasarovar Lake and many temples and religious sites. These sites provide insight into the spiritual and cultural practices of the local community. From there, you will drive to Kathmandu for about 2 hours.
Itinerary
1st Day: Drive Kathmandu to Changunarayan (1 hour) and trek to Nagarkot (4 to 5 hours).
2nd Day: Nagarkot to Dhulikhel, 6 to 7 hours walk.
3rd Day: Dhulikhel to Namobuddha, 3 to 4 hours walk.
4th Day: Namobuddha to Balthali, 5 to 6 hours walk.
5th Day: Balthali to Khopasi (an hour’s walk) and drive to Kathmandu (2 to 3 hours)
Visit also: 15 Best Places to Visit in Kathmandu Valley
5. Chisapani Trek: 6 Days
The Chisapani trek is another of the five best short treks near Kathmandu Valley. It is a comfortable and easy trek you can complete in six days. Trek offers a golden opportunity to experience the great cultural heritage of Nepal. This trek is a good option to explore the differences between urban and rural areas. The Chisapani Trek is full of green fields and hamlets. The people living in this area are still farmers and follow a traditional way of life.
Start Trek
After a 45-minute drive from Kathmandu, you will reach Sundarijal. Sundarijal is the starting point of the Chisapani trek. A 5-hour walk inside Shivapuri National Park will take you to the settlement of Chisapani. This small, picturesque village offers an experience of authentic natural beauty away from the crowded city. During your stay in Chisapani, you will observe the local traditions and customs. There are simple lodges with basic facilities for staying; don’t expect luxury hotels.
The next day, you will reach Nagarkot after a 6-hour trek from Chisapani. Located at 2195 meters, it is the best viewpoint near Kathmandu to witness the sunrise and sunset. This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the mountains, including Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Gourishankar, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang, etc. For accommodations, you can find everything from simple to luxurious hotels.
The next day, you will reach Dhulikhel after 6 hours of walking. Dhulikhel is an old, small town inhabited by the Newar community. This place offers a panoramic view of snow-capped mountains, green fields, and various flora and fauna. The city allows you to visit historical sites and learn about the culture and traditions.
Namobuddha – Visit an Artistic Monastery
The fourth day of the journey will take you to another important place, Namobuddha. The trail takes you through charming villages, terraced farms, and lush forests. The main attraction of this place is the beautiful Namobuddha Monastery. This monastery is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. This place offers 360-degree views of the Kathmandu Valley, making it a popular tourist destination.
The next day, after a 2 to 3-hour walk, you will reach Balthali village. The trail takes you through forests, terraced fields, and traditional Nepalese villages. It is a charming village with a peaceful atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. On the last day of the journey, you will reach Khopani village after walking for about an hour. After visiting Khopasi village, you will drive back to Kathmandu for 2–3 hours.
Itinerary
1st Day: Drive to Sundarijal (1 hour) and trek to Chisapani (5 to 6 hours).
2nd Day: Chisapani to Nagarkot – 6 to 7 hours walk.
3rd Day: Nagarkot to Dhulikhel – 6 to 7 hours walk.
4th Day: Dhulikhel to Namobuddha – 3 to 4 hours walk.
5th Day: Namobuddha to Balthali village – 5 to 6 hours walk.
6th Day: Balthali to Khopasi (an hour’s walk) and drive to Kathmandu – 2 to 3 hours.
You can choose one of the short treks near Kathmandu Valley given above according to your time and interest. Spend your vacation time in the Himalayan country of Nepal and get unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
Food and accommodations during short treks near Kathmandu Valley
All treks near Valley have tea houses where you can get basic accommodation. Luxury hotels are also available in cities like Nagarkot and Dhulikhel. In some areas, you can also find homestays as an option to stay with local families for an authentic experience.
You can enjoy Nepali food at local tea houses. Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup), momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), etc., are popular Nepali dishes. It is a good idea to carry light snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dry fruits to keep energy levels up during the trek.
The difficulty, altitude sickness, acclimatization, health, and fitness
All short treks near Kathmandu are of easy to moderate difficulty. Being a short and easy trek, anyone can participate regardless of age and fitness level. If you suffer from altitude sickness but want to experience the beauty of real Nepal, these treks are perfect. As the maximum height of the trip is only 2195 meters, there is no problem with altitude sickness.
Best Seasons for Short Treks Near Kathmandu Valley
Trekking is easy when the weather is favorable and challenging when unfavorable. So knowing which season is suitable before trekking in Nepal is important. Autumn and spring are the best seasons to travel in Nepal. During these seasons, there is little rain and not too much cold, which makes the trek easy to complete. Being an easy and short trek, you can trek any time of the year with proper planning and management. But we recommend trekking in the best seasons, like autumn and spring.
Permit and Entrance fees For Short Treks Near Kathmandu Valley
A permit is mandatory in most areas while trekking in Nepal. Permits vary depending on the trekking area. So, you need to know about permits and entry fees when trekking near Kathmandu. If you are hiking to Chisapani, the fee for Shivpuri National Park is INR 1130 per person, per day. For citizens of SAARC countries, Rs. 1000, and for Nepalis, Rs. 100. The entry fee for Nagarkot is Rs. 250 and Rs. 300 for Changunarayan temple.
Guide, Porter, and Luggage for Short Trks Near Kathmandu Valley
While trekking in Nepal, hiring a licensed trekking guide is mandatory. Guides are professionals who know the trekking trail better than anyone else. The trekking company provides the necessary guides and porters for you.
Because of the easy and short trek, your luggage is light, and you can carry it yourself. You can hire a porter even if you want to avoid carrying luggage during trekking. According to the rules of Nepal, a porter can carry a maximum weight of 20 kg. You can hire additional porters if your luggage weighs more than 20 kg.
Visit Also: Everest Base Camp Trek – 14 Days, Mount Everest, Mt. Everest, Longer Treks, Itinerary
