Hiking in Kathmandu Valley may not seem possible, especially to those who have lived in the valley forever. However, do you know that there are plenty of hiking locations yet to be explored by hiking enthusiasts in Kathmandu? That’s right, you don’t even have to drive or walk outside the valley to enjoy short and fun hikes in the capital city.
Kathmandu is one of the best locations for day hiking. Day hiking, unlike long treks and longer hikes, only lasts a day, but it still gives you the experience of an adventurous day outdoors. Likewise, you have more than just an option for Kathmandu day hiking.
Locations for Kathmandu Day Hiking
There are plenty of locations to opt for when you are looking to hike within the valley. Some of the major locations include Nagarkot, Shivapuri, Dhulikhel, Phulchowki, Champadevi, etc.
The aforementioned locations lead to more than just a destination. You will be thrilled to know that when you are going from one end to another, you can choose which destination you’d like to reach.
Routes of the hiking destinations are very simple and can be covered by even a beginner. Since hiking activities have been actively taking place in each of the areas for a while, you will find the trails to not be challenging.
Similarly, you are more than likely to see a good number of hikers come for a hike when you are in either of the hiking locations.
The following is a detailed insight as to what you can expect when you are in each of the hiking destinations in Kathmandu:
1. Sundarijal to Dhulikhel Or Namobuddha Day Hike
Sundarijal and Dhulikhel are both naturally beautiful locations. Over the years, these locations have also become popular because of the prospects it has created for hikers. The day’s hike is going to last for 3 to 4 days.
The hikers can choose to go on a one-day trek by opting for a destination shorter. But, without having to cross the capital city, you can spend a few days on your Sundarijal to Dhulikhel hike in which you will also get the chance to explore Nagarkot.
Your hiking destination won’t be too far from the busy city. When you start, you will walk through green forests which are rich in oak, rhododendron, and pine trees. The trails are not very rural since both Sundarijal and Dhulikhel are quite close to the city. Hence, you can purchase essentials including snacks and sanitary goodies in any store you find on your way.
The waterways that you will come through on your way will prove to be refreshing as well. On your way, you will also come by the headquarters of Nepal Scout. The location in Kakani is protected by Shivapuri Conservation which will necessitate the visitors to pay a small amount to bypass.
As you move higher in your journey, you will see the beautiful view of the city that never seems to sleep from above. Similarly, hikers will also get to enjoy a terrific view of mountains like Mount Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and Mount Manaslu.
Nagarkot will be a major part of this hike. The place is best known for offering a beautiful view of sunrise and sunset. In Nagarkot, hikers will feel as if they are above the clouds. Finally, your hike will proceed towards Dhulikhel which is the final destination in this hike.
Hikers can choose to walk towards Namobuddha which is a major pilgrimage location for Buddhist and Hindu followers nationwide. It has one of the most prominent Buddha statues in Nepal. From here, you can choose to be driven back to either Kathmandu or Bhaktapur.
Within only a few days, you will be able to experience a maximum number of factors within the quieter and naturally more beautiful places of Kathmandu Valley.
2. Shivapuri Hill Hike
If you are wondering if there’s a hike that won’t last for more than a day, Shivapuri Hill Ridge Hike is the perfect choice for you. This hike will not last more than 5 hours but it may extend to an hour or two depending on your walking speed.
Shivapuri Hill Ridge is best known for its naturally beautiful elements. There are several waterways, greenery, and wildlife within the region. You will have to start the hike early in the morning as the ticket counter will be closed by midday.
Starting a day off, especially the weekends in nature at Shivapuri Wildlife Reserve can be refreshing to those who have been seeking a day out away from the city’s busy life. Visitors can choose whichever route they’d like to explore at the beginning of their trek. Some boards will take them through the trails.
In less than 6 hours, you will find yourself back at the gate of the reserved hiking location. Besides just the Shivapuri Hill, hikers can explore and worship an enormous statue of the sleeping Lord Vishnu that seemed to have risen by itself from the ground. The temple is only a few kilometers away from the hilly hiking region.
3. Phulchowki Hike
Another great option for hikers looking to hike only for a day would be the Phulchowki hike. If you’ve not seen snow in Kathmandu or would like to experience snowfall in the valley, then this place is a must-visit!
The Phulchowki hike does not last for more than a day. The place has best been known for its diverse vegetation. If you are planning to start your hike from Godavari, then you will have plenty of natural beauty to explore. Godavari is known for its green hills and the ever-popular Botanical Garden.
Similarly, when you are going to Phulchowki Hill, you can also get a scenic view of mountains like Mount Cho Oyu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, Mount Everest, Mount Manaslu, and Gaurishankar Himal.
There are plenty of flowers that you’ll be delighted with like magnolia, rhododendron, orchids, and other wildflowers. The routes are easy to cover. Meanwhile on your journey, if you plan to stay a night at Godavari and continue your hike to Phulchowki the next day, that also can be managed as there are several amazing resorts and guesthouses in and around both locations.
You can expect snowfall in Phulchowki in certain seasons. These are also the seasons when there is maximum crowd. During such times, it is best to seek help from four-wheelers to go atop Phulchowki Hill. The Phulchowki hill is just as suitable for a day hike not only in a particular season but throughout the year.
4. Champadevi Hike
Champadevi Hill is quite close to Lalitpur and Kathmandu. The hill can be hiked in a single day within a few hours. Champadevi’s hiking location is usually covered by hikers and travelers daily throughout the year.
Since it is very close to the main cities in Kathmandu Valley, the city inhabitants often frequent the hill during the weekends. Champadevi Hill is rich in greenery and serves as an impressive location for anyone who is looking for a peaceful day out in nature.
During the climb through the hill, hikers will get a strikingly beautiful view of mountains including Mount Annapurna, Mount Dhaulagiri, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, and Mount Manaslu. Since the hiking location is not very far from the city, you can go back to the city area for lunch.
One of the most sought locations for lunch which is close to the hill is Hattiban in Lalitpur. You can choose to stay a night in a hotel anywhere in Lalitpur or Kathmandu upon returning from the hike.
5. Nagarkot Hike
Another amazing choice for hikers to hike in Kathmandu would be the Nagarkot to Changunarayan hike. Nagarkot and Changunarayan have routes that are connected through hiking trails which has made them popular among hikers in recent years.
Nagarkot has plenty of hotels and resorts where you can spend a night with your fellow group of hikers before giving a kickstart to your hike towards Changunarayan the very next morning.
Hikers also have the option to go on the Changunarayan hike directly from Nagarkot within a single day.
The entire hike is going to be rich in natural beauty from beginning to end. The Nagarkot hills are as green as ever and have been unaffected by the growth in habitation of the emerging city population of Kathmandu Valley.
On your way from Nagarkot to Changunarayan, you can enjoy the alluring views of Mount Everest, Ganesh Himal, Mount Manaslu, and Gauri Shankar. Along the trails, you will also come by farm fields where the locals are often busy with their day-to-day farming chores. And, there are plenty of terraced fields as well.
You will be able to explore Bhaktapur on your way to the top where Changunarayan temple is located. The Changunarayan temple has great religious significance and is one of the oldest temples in Nepal.
The temple has been kept intact and maintained very well. Therefore, visitors can see a glimpse of the ancient times and the religious significance that never left the country despite the passage of several centuries.
After you complete the hike, you can return to your hotel by bus. Hikers can also choose to stay in a hotel if they are too tired by the day’s activity.
Things To Keep In Mind During Kathmandu Day Hiking
Though Kathmandu Day Hiking is not half as challenging as most other hiking journeys, few things are better when kept in mind throughout your journey. Some points to remember as a hiker would be to:
Hire a guide
If you are a beginner, regardless of whether you are hiking in a group or not, a guide should be considered a must. For day hikes, hikers usually don’t prefer a guide but if your hike stretches more than a day, then you should consider hiring one without second thought.
Carry your bottle.
Buying mineral water bottles at every other stop can be inconvenient and is not healthy for your pocket or an eco-friendly way to go. It is best to carry a water bottle and fill it up whenever you find a stop. Carrying water purifying tablets is suggested to ensure water health.
Carry medications
Hikers need to carry medicine or antiseptic cures when they are on their journey whether it only lasts for a day or longer. It is best to carry a proper amount of medications. You can carry tablets or ointments that would work for temporary body aches or possible wounds.
It would be a wise decision for hikers with minor health issues to get in touch with their physician before they begin the journey. Carrying medications accordingly is suggested for such hikers.
Conclusion
Kathmandu Day Hiking is a cheaper and simpler alternative for busy individuals who want to experience magnificent nature within the busy capital city. If you’re a foreigner who wants to hike in Kathmandu without having to travel too much, then the aforementioned locations would be great options for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to pre-book for hiking in either of the locations?
Yes, you can pre-book your spot for any of the locations.
Can I hire a guide from the agency?
Yes, you can hire a reliable and experienced guide directly from our agency.
How much is the cost per person for each hike?
For each of the hike, you are required to pay from USD 60 to USD 75 per person. Personal expenses are likely to extend your spending.
