Trekking in Nepal is a step closer to the magnificence of nature, majesty of the Himalayas, and the glorious culture. Whenever people talk about trekking in Nepal, they are engulfed with the idea that treks are lengthy and difficult like the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek. However, there are comparatively less strenuous, yet amazing treks available across Nepal. Likewise, there are a number of treks which can be easily accessed from Kathmandu. So, if you are planning your next trip to Nepal, indulge in some short treks that offer the same level of thrill and enthusiasm as other famous treks.

Some of the famous hiking and trekking trips that tourists drool over are the Shivapuri Trek, Nagarkot Dhulikhel Trek, and Chisapani Trek. The reason behind the growing popularity of short treks lies in the fact that there are no special criteria required to take these treks. As long as you have average physical fitness, you are good to go. These hikes don’t require individuals of a certain age group, gender, or prior experience. These hiking and trekking trips take place in the periphery of the bustling metropolis of Kathmandu, and there is quite a lot to do. Indulge in some sightseeing, learn the culture and norms of the people residing along the trails, or just sit back and enjoy the pleasant views. From bird watching to scouting the lush forested trails, these hikes and short treks have it all.

As such, here are some of the most famous short treks near Kathmandu valley.

Short Treks From Kathmandu:

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

The Chisapani Nagarkot trek connects two of the most beautiful hill stations around the Kathmandu Valley, namely: Chisapani and Nagarkot. This trek commences from Sundarijal as you navigate your way through the ups and downs of the Shivapuri National Park. Climb the forested trail and enjoy the mesmerizing bio-diversity on the trail. This 2-day trip takes its first stop at Chisapani, and the next day leads to the Nagarkot hill station. The trail to Nagarkot explores the hillside trails to the northeast of the Kathmandu Valley. From both Chisapani and Nagarkot viewpoints, you can also observe the surreal views of the Kathmandu Valley along with faraway mountains like Manaslu (8163 m), Ganesh Himal (7422 m), and Dorje Lakpa (6966 m). This is an easy hike and can be completed by children too.



View from Nagarkot

If you have only one day for Kathmandu and would like to explore nature doing some day hikes around Kathmandu valley, these should be perfect.

Nagarkot Changunarayan Hike

The Nagarkot Changunarayan Hike is suitable for those who wish to incorporate a certain level of religion and spirituality on their travel. The hike starts from Nagarkot which is situated 29 km northeast of Kathmandu. We drive early in the morning and reach Nagarkot to witness the enchanting display of Himalayas in the Langtang, Ganesh, and Dorje Lakpa ranges. The hike will start after we enjoy the scenery and takes you through flat forested trails with Tamang settlements in view. The ending point of the hike is Changunarayan Temple which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. TIt takes roughly 5 hours to complete the hike and it can be done by people of all ages.



Sunrise view from Nagarkot

Champadevi Hike

The famous Champadevi Hike takes place in the Champadevi hill which is the third-highest hill surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. It is a one-day trip and it initiates from Bhanjyang. This short hike takes you to the summit of the Champadevi Hill from where you can observe the untainted view of Ganesh Himal (7422 m), Langtang (7227 m), and other peaks in Gauri Shankar and Manaslu ranges as well. You can even see the gorgeous backdrop of Kathmandu valley, Khokana, and the neighbouring Phulchowki hill. The summit of the hill also is home to the esteemed Champadevi Temple. It is also a fairly easy and short hike around Kathmandu Valley.



Kathmandu Valley

Shivapuri Nature Hike

The Shivapuri Nature Hike takes place inside the Shivapuri National Park and is the most visited one as well. Located in the northern part of Kathmandu, the hike starts from the holy Budhanikantha Temple. The path is forested and there is even accessibility for motorbikes. The park is home to over 300 species of birds and animals. You can also take a detour to the famous Nagi Gompa and get an insight into the history of the monastery. The hill provides an unblemished view of the Langtang mountain range and the Kathmandu valley. This hike lasts for one day and is definitely worth the money.

Nagarjun Jamacho Hike



View of Kathmandu valley from Jamacho hill

TheNagarjun Jamacho Hike covers another portion of the Shivapuri National park. This one-day hike starts from Balaju and goes deep into the forested landscape. There is a cave in the hill which many believe to be the place where an ancient monk once meditated. As such, the Jamacho Monastery at the top of the Shivapuri Hill. The trail is cluttered with Buddhist stupas and prayer flags which add a certain magical feeling to the hike. Similar to the other hikes, it is also near and easily accessible as well.

Kakani Suryachaur Hike

The Kakani Suryachaur Hike starts from Kakani and leads you into the Shivapuri National Park premises. The road goes along the unperturbed trails of the National Park and provides you with a panoramic display of the hills that surround the Kathmandu valley. The hike lasts for a day and it provides the opportunity to observe the flora and fauna residing in these parts. Suryachaur is a great place to observe the delightful display of the Langtang and Ganesh Mountains. The hike takes roughly 5 hours, and after arriving in Suryachaur you can catch a bus that leads to Kathmandu.



Suryachaur

Dhulikhel Namobuddha Panauti Hike

This hike takes into consideration 2 of the most beautiful and ancient Newari settlement near the Kathmandu valley. Dhulikhel and Panauti are old in the sense that they still adhere to their past culture and traditions with a twist of modernization. The hike starts from Dhulikhel and heads to Namobuddha. Namobuddha also has an ancient myth associated with Lord Buddha. Spend some time here and then head out to Panauti. Here, you can relish the Newari heritage and history before heading back to Kathmandu. This hike is done in a single day.





View from Namobuddha hill

Trekking and Hiking area must on your bucket list while visiting Nepal. The green hills combined with a sense of homeliness make the trip much more appealing and rewarding. What makes the trips even wonderful is the fact that these can be done by anyone with an average physical condition. Enjoy the pleasant trails around the Kathmandu Valley and witness the elegance of nature.

Conclusion

These short trek and hikes are highly recommended for the people who are for the short visit to Nepal. 3 days Chisapani Nagarkot trek can be extended to 4 days or 5 days according to the time frame of the visitor. Day hikes are suitable for the people who are for the business meeting, seminar and visiting Tibet and Bhutan from Nepal and use the free day in Kathmandu. Short trek and day hikes are good for the beginners, families, and not adventures travellers. We offer these trips at reliable cost and flexible dates.