Nepal is a wonderful country with a heady blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and culture. The awe-inspiring views of the high Himalayas are truly breathtaking. They are, without a doubt, an adventurer’s dream, and there are constantly optimistic trekkers and mountaineers ready to conquer the high peaks. The sight of the lofty and mighty summits, on the other hand, may be a little intimidating for some – trekking in Nepal is not for the faint of heart. Some intrepid travelers may not have as much time as others. Hikes come into play here! Hikes are leisurely walking or climbing excursions that normally last a day or two. A trek is your best bet if you’re only in Kathmandu for a short time but still want to get a whiff of fresh mountain air – they’re cheap, interesting, beautiful, and good for your health! Discover the top ten hiking paths in Kathmandu and pick the one that appeals to you the most. Put your trekking boots on!
Amitabha Monastery Hike:
Seto Gumba, which translates to “White Monastery” in the local language, is another name for Amitabha Monastery. The stunning monastery is built entirely of white stones, giving it a spotless appearance. Local murals and frescoes depicting the life of the Buddha and Buddhist culture adorn the walls. Sacred figurines made of healing clay can also be found near the monument. During sunset, the Stupa is quite stunning! Because the trail is well-traveled, you’ll almost certainly meet some friendly hiking buddies.
Starting point: Swayambhu
Duration: Minimum 3.5 hours
Altitude: 1500m/4920 ft
Highlights:
- Stupa and murals
- Sunset and sunrise view
- A panoramic vista of Kathmandu valley
- Clay statues
Kakani Hike:
Seto Gumba, which translates to “White Monastery” in the local language, is another name for Amitabha Monastery. The stunning monastery is built entirely of white stones, giving it a spotless appearance. Local murals and frescoes depicting the life of the Buddha and Buddhist culture adorn the walls. Sacred figurines made of healing clay can also be found near the monument. During sunset, the Stupa is quite stunning! Because the trail is well-traveled, you’ll almost certainly meet some friendly hiking buddies.
Starting point: Swayambhu
Duration: Minimum 3.5 hours
Altitude: 1500m/4920 ft
Highlights:
- Stupa and murals
- Sunset and sunrise view
- A panoramic vista of Kathmandu valley
- Clay statues
Kakani Hike:
This beautiful trail leads to Kakani, a small village near Kathmandu, through the alpine forests. The trail is easy to hike because it is gravely and has a very little elevation. There are various picnic areas and roadside businesses where you can stop for a quick break. At Kakani, don’t forget to try the local cuisine!
Starting point: Kathmandu
Duration: Minimum 5 hours
Altitude: 2000 m/6560 ft
Highlights:
- A trek through sub-alpine forests
- Astounding views of Kathmandu valley
- Forests full of oak, pine and rhododendron trees
- Views of Langtang Mountain Range, Shisha Pangma Range, Annapurna Range, Mt Manaslu
Phulchowki Hike:
Phulchowki is the highest point in the Kathmandu valley, thus the views from the summit are bound to be spectacular! As you attempt to climb this slope, you will almost certainly encounter hikers. Snow-capped mountains, unusual birds, and towering mountains surround you on all sides as you climb. When you arrive in the hamlet, pay a visit to the Botanic Garden to see some unique and colorful plants. You can also camp in specified areas or stay in motels.
Starting point: Kathmandu
Duration: Minimum 3.5 hours
Altitude: 2782 m/9130 ft
Highlights:
- Outstanding views of Kathmandu valley
- Vista of Annapurna and Gaurishankar mountains, Mt Everest, Mt Manaslu
- Botanical garden
- Diverse flora and fauna, especially birds, orchids, butterflies and rhododendrons
Nagarkot Hike:
The spectacular vistas of the Himalayas from Nagarkot make this hiking trail a favorite among hikers. Sankhu, a Newari settlement, is the beginning point for the walk. Before going to Nagarkot, feel free to learn about the culture and cuisine. You can also camp out at night if you want to. What else do you require?!
Starting point: Sankhu
Duration: Minimum 5 hours
Altitude: 2175 m/7135 ft
Highlights:
- A taste of Newari culture at Sankhu
- Sunrise and sunset points
- Nagarkot Tower
- View from Dhaulagiri to Kanchenjunga, Mt Everest, Mt Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang
Sundarijal Hike:
This hike is a less strenuous way to see some untamed landscape, easy inclines, and magnificent scenery. The path passes through Shivapuri National Park, providing breathtaking vistas. You might even see some animals if your luck is on your side! To obtain a sense of the local tribal culture, prolong your trek to the Chisapani community.
Starting point: Budhanilkantha
Duration: Minimum 6 hours
Altitude: 100 m/4930 ft
Highlights:
• Passing by lakes and waterholes
• Shivapuri National Park
• Chisapani settlement
• Views of all major mountains
• Waterfalls
Shivapuri Hike:
This is the first section of the prior hike, which you can drive over or walk over. This trail has a harder climb, but it’s well worth it because the sights you’ll see along the way are truly one-of-a-kind. You can always hitch a ride on a pony or a jeep if you get tired too fast. The Budhanilkantha temple is supposed to have enormous strength and the ability to grant wishes, while the Nagi Gompa is a tranquil reflection center.
Starting point: Kathmandu
Duration: Minimum 5 hours
Altitude: 2560 m/8400 ft
Highlights:
- Shivapuri National Park and conservation area
- Budhanilkantha temple
- Nagi Gompa
Namobuddha Hike:
For visitors and worshippers alike, this Buddhist shrine is significant because it represents the narrative of Mahasatta, a prince who fed himself to a tigress and her pups. The Namobuddha Stupa exudes tranquility and calm and is a must-see. From the town of Panauti, you may follow a tiny river that looks spectacular. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across Nepali farmers in action and be able to assist them!
Starting point: Kathmandu
Duration: Minimum 6 hours
Altitude: 1800 m/5900 ft
Highlights:
- River trail
- The quaint town of Panauti
- Suspension bridge
- Buddhist Stupa and shrines
- View of Mt Everest and Langtang Mountain Range
Champadevi Hike:
The Champadevi hike is well-known for being both adventurous and rewarding. This route will take you through a lush pine forest with breathtaking vistas. At the conclusion of the trail, you’ll come upon a charming monastery where you can enjoy a cup of steaming milky tea. Don’t forget to bring a map with you!
Starting point: Kathmandu
Duration: Minimum 4.5 hours
Altitude: 2249 m/7380 ft
Highlights:
- Stupas and shrines
- Monastery
- Pine forests
- Langtang and Annapurna range views
Chisapani Hike:
The Chisapani Hike is a local favorite because it takes less than four hours and takes you through Shivapuri National Park, Chisapani town, and deep forests. You’ll fall in love with the quaint settlement, which is set against the majestic Himalayan backdrop of towering snow-capped mountains. You might even see some creatures in the woods!
Starting point: Sundarijal
Duration: Minimum 3 hours
Altitude: 2215 m/7270 ft
Highlights:
- Chisapani village
- Shivapuri National Park trek
- Views of the sub-tropical forests
- Views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, Gaurishankar Himal ranges
Nagarjuna Hike:
This spot is historically significant since it was here that Manjushree, a Chinese saint, first saw what would later become Kathmandu Valley. According to an earlier record, the Buddha also visited Nagarjuna cave. A must-see is the Water Garden, which is located just south of Nagarjuna. This magnificent location boasts a wealth of history, natural beauty, and aesthetic appeal! Hikers can stop by the Padmasambhava Monastery for a rest and to speak with the monks on a variety of issues.
Starting point: Kathmandu
Duration: Minimum 4 hours
Altitude: 1950 m/6400 ft
Highlights:
- Padmasambhava monastery
- Viewpoint
- Balaju Water Garden
- Nagarjuna’s cave
- Mahasiddha cave
- Manjushree Cave