Short hiking trails in Kathmandu refer to relatively easy and accessible trekking routes that are located within a short distance from Kathmandu Valley. These trails are ideal for people who have limited time or prefer a more relaxed hike without the commitment of long, strenuous treks. Typically, these hikes can be completed within a day or two, making them perfect for quick escapes from the busy city life while still offering beautiful natural surroundings, scenic views, and a chance to experience local culture.
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and serene natural surroundings. While the city itself is a hub of activity, it’s also surrounded by lush hills, valleys, and forests that offer perfect short hiking trails. These trails are ideal for both locals and tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu city and experience the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top short hiking trails in Kathmandu, including how to get there, key attractions, and what makes each of these hikes unique. Whether you have a few hours or a day to spare, these trails provide a perfect escape.
Top Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu
1. Nagarkot Hiking
Location:
Nagarkot is one of the most popular hiking destinations near Kathmandu, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. It is located about 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, making it perfect for a day trip.
How to Get There:
You can either drive to Nagarkot from Kathmandu or take a local bus to Bhaktapur and then hire a taxi or a private vehicle to Nagarkot. Alternatively, you can take a short hike from the nearby village of Telkot to reach Nagarkot.
Key Attractions:
Panoramic Views of the Himalayas: Nagarkot is known for offering some of the best sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Everest, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal.
Nagarkot View Tower: Located at the top of the hill, the view tower offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Nature Walks: The hike is surrounded by lush forests, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the serenity of nature.
Cultural Experience: Explore local villages and experience the rural life of Nepal.
Why It’s Great for Short Hikes:
The trail to Nagarkot is a moderate hike that can be completed in one day, making it ideal for a quick escape from Kathmandu. You can enjoy the tranquility, great views, and fresh air without having to venture too far from the city.
2. Sundarijal to Chisapani Trek
Location:
Sundarijal is a popular starting point for many trekking routes around Kathmandu. This trek takes you through lush forests, small villages, and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Chisapani, at an elevation of 2,300 meters, is the final destination.
How to Get There:
Sundarijal is located about 15 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu, and you can easily get there by taking a local bus or a taxi. The hike to Chisapani from Sundarijal takes around 4 to 5 hours.
Key Attractions:
Sundarijal Waterfall: The trail starts at the beautiful Sundarijal waterfall, which is a peaceful spot to begin your hike.
Shivapuri National Park: The hike passes through parts of Shivapuri National Park, which is home to various species of birds, plants, and animals.
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Langtang range, Gauri Shankar, and the surrounding hills.
Chisapani Village: The village offers an authentic rural Nepali experience, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Why It’s Great for Short Hikes:
This hike is perfect for a day trip or a two-day trip if you want to take your time. The trail is relatively easy, with moderate uphill sections that offer fantastic views without being too strenuous.
3. Phulchowki Hill
Location:
Phulchowki is the highest hill around Kathmandu Valley, standing at 2,762 meters. Located south of Kathmandu, it offers a peaceful environment, surrounded by forests and mountain views.
How to Get There:
You can drive from Kathmandu to the base of Phulchowki Hill (around 20 kilometers) and then start your hike. The hike takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach the summit.
Key Attractions:
Phulchowki Forest: The hill is covered by dense forests that are part of the Phulchowki National Park. It’s perfect for birdwatching, with various species like the Himalayan griffon vulture and pheasants.
Views of the Himalayas: On clear days, you can see the Annapurna, Langtang, and Everest ranges from the top of Phulchowki.
Hiking Trails: There are multiple trails leading up the hill, offering a variety of experiences, from easier routes to more challenging ones.
Historical Significance: The area is also home to some old temples and shrines, including the Phulchowki temple at the summit.
Why It’s Great for Short Hikes:
Phulchowki is a moderate hike that offers a great mix of nature, wildlife, and cultural experience. It’s close enough to Kathmandu for a quick getaway but provides enough variety to keep things interesting.
4. Buddhanilkantha to Shivapuri National Park
Location:
Buddhanilkantha, known for the large sleeping Vishnu statue, is located at the base of Shivapuri Hill. This trail is a combination of cultural and natural experiences, taking you through forests and temples.
How to Get There:
Buddhanilkantha is about 8 kilometers from Kathmandu. You can take a bus or taxi from Kathmandu to reach the starting point of the hike. From there, you can continue your hike to Shivapuri.
Key Attractions:
Buddhanilkantha Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the enormous statue of Vishnu lying on a bed of serpents is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nepal.
Shivapuri National Park: The park offers a peaceful escape from the city and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various species of birds and plants.
Shivapuri Peak: At the top of Shivapuri Hill, you can enjoy stunning views of Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding Himalayas.
Historical Sites: The trail passes by ancient temples and shrines, making it an excellent hike for those interested in both nature and culture.
Why It’s Great for Short Hikes:
This trail is perfect for those who want a quick, rewarding hike without leaving Kathmandu Valley. It’s a great combination of cultural exploration and natural beauty, with a manageable ascent.
5. Kakani to Rudi Bhanjyang
Location:
Kakani is a hill station located to the northwest of Kathmandu, known for its beautiful scenery and cool climate. The hike to Rudi Bhanjyang takes you through dense forests and rural villages.
How to Get There:
Kakani is around 23 kilometers from Kathmandu, and you can get there by private vehicle or bus. From Kakani, the hike to Rudi Bhanjyang takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Key Attractions:
Scenic Views: From Kakani, you can enjoy views of the Ganesh Himal range, Annapurna, and Manaslu. The area is perfect for photography, with lush landscapes and mountains in the background.
Rural Villages: The hike passes through several remote villages where you can experience the local culture and lifestyle.
Rudi Bhanjyang: At the top, you’ll be greeted with magnificent views and the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding hills.
Why It’s Great for Short Hikes:
Kakani to Rudi Bhanjyang is an ideal short hike, offering fantastic views and a cultural experience in a short amount of time. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without committing to a long trek.
Highlights
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu are perfect for those looking for a quick escape from the city.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas.
Many Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu pass through serene forests, ideal for nature lovers.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu can be easily completed within a day or two.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu give you a chance to experience the rural life of Nepal.
The Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu are ideal for beginners who want to try trekking.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu offer great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu provide panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas.
Some Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu include routes like Nagarkot and Phulchowki.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu are accessible by car, making them convenient for day trips.
Exploring Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu is a great way to recharge and enjoy nature without a long commitment.
Many Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu are located within national parks, offering both beauty and biodiversity.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu also give you a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of the area.
One of the best aspects of Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu is that they are close to the city yet feel worlds away.
Short Hiking Trails in Kathmandu are perfect for travelers with limited time but who still want to enjoy the Nepalese landscape.
Conclusion
Kathmandu is surrounded by a rich variety of short hiking trails that allow you to escape into nature while still being close to the city. Whether you’re looking for a quick day hike to enjoy the mountains, experience local villages, or immerse yourself in peaceful forests, these trails offer something for everyone. From Nagarkot’s panoramic mountain views to the serene forests of Phulchowki, there’s no shortage of amazing places to explore.
When planning your next adventure, consider these short hiking trails in Kathmandu. You’ll experience the natural beauty, culture, and tranquility of Nepal, all within a few hours from the heart of the city.
