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Kathmandu Diary: Discover the Best Day Hikes in Kathmandu Valley

Nepal is a magical country where you can enjoy nature, wildlife, and breathtaking views. The tall mountains and Himalayan beauty provide breathtaking view. These peaks are also a paradise for adventurers, and you can always find hikers and mountaineers eager to conquer them.

The Kathmandu valley can still be explored by walking for one or two days if you don’t have the time or fitness for trekking. A trip to sub-alpine forests and a quiet ambiance is the perfect way to escape daily stress. The hikes can be done in one day, and are ideal for older and younger hikers alike.

A hike is your best bet if you’re in Kathmandu for just a few days but still wants to get a whiff of mountain air – they’re inexpensive, noteworthy, gorgeous, and great for your health! 

The Himalayan Circuit offers the 10 best hiking trails around Kathmandu valley, so you can pick the one you like best. So, get your hiking boots on!

  • Nagarkot – Changu Narayan Hiking:

Nagarkot – Changu Narayan hiking is a popular hike in Kathmandu Valley that combines scenic views of the Himalayas with cultural heritage sites. The trek starts in Nagarkot, a hill station famous for its sunrise views over the Himalayas, and ends in Changu Narayan, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

The trail passes through terraced fields, traditional villages, and dense forests, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Hiking this easy trail is best suited to escaping the daily hustle and bustle of daily life and requires moderate physical fitness.

  • Shivapuri Hiking:

Shivapuri Hiking is a popular trek in Kathmandu Valley that takes you through the Shivapuri National Park, located on the northern outskirts of Kathmandu. The trek offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural significance, as you pass by forests, traditional villages, and Hindu temples. 

This hike starts and ends in Kathmandu and can be completed in a day or two, depending on your pace. It is a relatively easy trek and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The trek provides scenic views of the Kathmandu valley, the Himalayas, and diverse flora and fauna of the national park.

  • Chisapani Hiking:

Chisapani Hiking is a hike in Kathmandu Valley that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience rural life. The trek starts from Sundarijal, on the outskirts of Kathmandu, and ends in Chisapani, a hilltop village located near the border with Tibet. 

The trail passes through dense forests, traditional villages, and terraced fields, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The hike is typically completed in 2-3 days and is considered relatively easy, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. 

The highlight of the trek is the panoramic views of the Himalayas, including peaks such as Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna.

  • Champadevi Hiking:

Champadevi Hiking is a hike in Kathmandu Valley that takes you to the top of Champadevi Hill, located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. The trek offers scenic views of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayas, as well as a chance to experience rural life in the surrounding villages. 

The trail passes through dense forests, traditional villages, and terraced fields, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The trek can be completed in a day and is considered relatively easy, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. 

The top of Champadevi Hill provides panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu valley, making it a popular destination for sunrise and sunset views. Additionally, the hill is also a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, and there are several temples and shrines located at the top.

  • Nagarjuna Hiking (Jamacho):

Nagarjuna Hiking (Jamacho) is a popular hike in Kathmandu Valley that takes you to the top of Nagarjuna Hill, located near the village of Jamacho. The trek offers scenic views of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayas, as well as a chance to experience rural life in the surrounding villages. 

The trail passes through dense forests, traditional villages, and terraced fields, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The trek can be completed in a day and is considered relatively easy, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. 

The top of Nagarjuna Hill provides panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu valley, making it a popular destination for sunrise and sunset views. Additionally, the hill is also a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and there is a Buddhist monastery located at the top.

Hiking around the Kathmandu valley is the perfect way to experience Nepal in all its glory, as it is cheaper, easier, faster, and sometimes even more rewarding than trekking. 

Get away from your busy schedule next time you’re in Nepal by taking a hike with the Himalayan circuit. Take a walk around Kathmandu and make some unforgettable memories! Get off the beaten path!

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