Kathmandu-hiking-areas

Title: Top Hiking Areas Around Kathmandu Valley

Shivapuri National Park

  • Location: North of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur
  • Duration: Full day (6-8 hours)
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

Shivapuri National Park offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu. With an altitude ranging from 1500m to 2732m, this park is perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail takes you through dense forests, terraced fields, and picturesque villages, with Shivapuri peak (2732m) as the final destination.

Nagarjun Hill

  • Location: Northwest of Kathmandu
  • Duration: Half day (3-4 hours)
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nagarjun Hill is a popular spot among locals and tourists due to its proximity to the city. The trail offers stunning views of Kathmandu Valley, with various temples and stupas along the way. The hill is also famous for meditation caves believed to have been used by Buddhist sages in ancient times.

Phulchoki Hill

  • Location: South of Kathmandu
  • Duration: Half day (3-4 hours)
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Phulchoki Hill, at an altitude of 2782m, is the highest point in the southern part of Kathmandu Valley. The trail offers a beautiful panorama of the valley and Himalayan peaks on clear days. It’s also known as one of the best places for birdwatching around Kathmandu.

Chisapani-Nagarkot Trek

  • Location: North of Kathmandu
  • Duration: 2-3 days
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

The Chisapani-Nagarkot trek takes you through lush forests, traditional villages, and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The trail starts from Sundarijal, near Kathmandu, and leads you to Chisopani (2300m). From there, you can continue to Nagarkot (2175m), famous for its sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.

Kakani Hill

  • Location: Northwest of Kathmandu
  • Duration: Half day (3-4 hours)
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Kakani Hill is a less crowded hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The trail takes you through pine forests and traditional Gurung settlements, with the Buddhist monastery at the top being a highlight.