7 Best Hiking Places in Kathmandu

Every avid traveller dreams of conquesting the tall peaks of Nepal. Honestly, you can’t blame them. The gigantic picturesque Himalayas in Nepal are filled with serenity and power that one can’t help but yearn for. 

While the idea of scaling the summits is liberating, trekking routes in Nepal are not everyone’s cup of tea. But fear not, hikes are there to save the day. 

The best part, you may ask.  The country’s capital, Kathmandu, has plenty of hiking spots that are short and filled with the same magic of nature. So give these best hiking places in Kathmandu a try and escape the city with serene hiking trails. 

The Best Hiking Places in Kathmandu That You Must Explore Now

1. Kakani Hike

Kakani Hike is among the best hiking places in Kathmandu. The magnificent hiking trails take you to Kakani, a small village, located about 26 Km away from Kathmandu.

On your way to this place, you’ll also get to see beautiful villages such as Rani Pauwa and Kaule. 

You have the option of taking 2 routes to Kakani. While both of these routes start at Kakani, they end at different spots. The first one is Kakani to Gurjebhanjyang or Surya Chaur. This route is more of a scenic hike in Kathmandu and offers a gorgeous view of the Langtang Himalayan Range. 

The next route is from Kakani to Jhor. You don’t get to see the mountains however you will be treated to scenic views of Kathmandu. It’s good to avoid this route as it doesn’t have much to offer. 

Kakani Hill is renowned for its strawberry farming built with a single irrigation system and Himalayan trout fish. 

Highlights:

• Witness oak, pine, and rhododendron forests 
• Breathtaking views of the Himalayas such as  Annapurna II, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Langtang ri, Gaurishanker, Gosainkunda, and Jugal
• Explore Tamang cultures and traditions 

2. Champadevi Hike 

Champadevi is a short hike around Kathmandu. It is located at a height of 2250 meters on the Southern hill of Kathmandu Valley. This 20 km journey takes through a dense forest filled with pine, bamboo, and rhododendron.   

You’ll also get up close with the Newari settlements of Khokana, Bungamati,  and Pharping. These Newari settlements hold historical significance. This trial covers a delightful view of some of the hidden gems of Kathmandu such as the Bagmati River, Bungmati, Khokana, and Pharping. 

Once you get to the top of the Champadevi Summit, you’ll see the stunning views of mountains in the Ganesh, Langtang, and Gauri Shankar ranges. You’ll find Champadevi temple at the summit of the journey.

Highlights:

• Impressive glimpses of Mt. Everest, Langtang, Gaurishanker, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna.
• Explore stupas, shrines, monasteries, and Padmasambhava caves.
• Stunning views of Patan Durbar Square, Taudaha Lake, and Swayambhunath Temple 

3. Amitabha Monastery Hike 

The Amitabha monastery hike is a jackpot for anyone planning a one day long hiking places in Kathmandu. You’ll witness the beauty of nature without the hard work of walking for long days. 

Amitabha Monastery, also popular by the name Seto Gumba or Druk Amitabh Monastery, resides within the southern part of Kathmandu Valley. The hike starts from Halchowk accompanied by the steep-pitched roads, greenery, and local settlements, and ends at Druk Amitabh Monastery.

Located at a height of 1500m, the monastery offers a stunning view of Kathmandu Valley including Swayambhunath. The invigorating air, and vibrant details in architecture all makeup for a captivating hiking experience. 

If your hike is on clear days, then you’ll be delighted with the views of Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Manaslu. The sunrise and sunset view in this place is to die for. With so many places to visit in Kathmandu, Amitabha Monastery hikes definitely offer a break from the chaos of the capital. 

Highlights:

• Enchanting view of the valley 
• Mesmerising sunset and sunrise view 
• Get to learn about Buddhism and practice meditation 

4. Nagarkot Hike 

Nagarkot hike effortlessly takes the cake for the best place for hiking in Kathmandu. This is supported by the large popularity among national and international tourists. So do expect a bit crowd. 

The hill station offers fascinating scenes of some of the highest ranges such as  Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, Jugal, Maha Langur, and Ganesh Himal ranges. This hike offers a wide range of outdoor activities like walking, paragliding, and village sightseeing. 

The thing that stands out for the Nagarkot hike is its accessibility from Kathmandu which caters to all nature lovers irrespective of their ages. The hiking trail covers terraced hillsides, dense vegetation, and sweet villages that make you fall in love with this place. 

Nagarkot is beloved for its sunrise and sunset views. You’ll also spot Changunaryan Nepal, a UNESCO World Heritage site as you return from your hike.    

Highlights:

• Welcoming Newari Kartik village
• Gorgeous sweeping view of the three highest peaks namely Dhaulagiri in the west, Mount Everest in the east, and Kanchenjunga.
• Tap into the lifestyle of neighboring Gurung and Tamang ethnic groups. 

5. Sundarijal Hike

Sundarijal Hike serves as a great option for a short hike around Kathmandu.  The hike is also popular with the name Shivapuri hiking as the hike covers the area of Shivapuri national park. 

The place is renowned for its temperate climate, luscious greenery, and diverse flora and fauna. So you’d be up for some real nature walks in Kathmandu with Sundarijal Hike. 

As you ascend through Shivapuri National Park, you’d discover gorgeous rhododendron forests, temples, and river dams. You can do some deep thinking while dabbing your feet alongside the river. 

The Sundarijal River provides shelter to 177 birds with 9 endangered species, 102 species of butterflies, various endangered creatures, and 129 species of mushrooms. Your ears will be blessed with the chirping of birds and have some birdwatching activities. 

It is an 18 km short hike and takes around 6 hours. 

Highlights:

• Explore Shivapuri National Park and Conservation Area 
• Visit the religiously significant Budhanilkantha temple and Tamang Monastery at Nagi Gompa
• Enjoy the beautiful landscape, waterfalls, and huge forest
• Enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayas from Shivapuri Hill.

6. Namobuddha Hike 

The Namobuddha hike is yet another one-day hike around Kathmandu that satisfies every checklist any hiker might have. You have astonishing views of mountains, culturally rich Newari villages, gumbas, and chaityas. All leading to a perfect getaway. 

The Namobuddha hiking trail covers the villages of Banepa and Panauti. The vibrant prayer flags add the perfect balance to the calm environment. The path is marked at an altitude of 2565 m and takes you through gorgeous rhododendron forests and holy temples and monasteries such as the Namo Buddha Stupa, Indreshwar Mahadev Temple, and the Brahmayani Temple.

If you’re lucky to be around clear sky days, then you’ll be blessed with the panoramic sight of Dorje Lakpa, Chovabhamare, Numbur,  Langtang, Gaurishankar,  Shishapangma, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Rolwaling.

Apart from being a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site, the trails also have historic and some early towns, making your hiking experience an insightful one. 

Highlights:

• Revel in the breathtaking views of Langtang and Gaurishanker ranges from Namobuddha
• Learn about the Buddhist culture in the monastery
• Picturesque dense forests, verdant farms, and pristine topography 
• Explore other cultural monuments in Dhulikhel such as Kali Temple, Chandeshwori Temple, Gita Temple, and Bhagwati Shiva Temple.

7. Phulchowki Hike

Saving the best for the last, the Phulchowki hike is another one-day hike around Kathmandu that deserves all your attention. Phulchowki Hill is the highest hill surrounding Kathmandu Valley within 20 Km of reach from Kathmandu. 

The word ‘’Phulchowki’’ translates to ‘’hills full of flowers’’. So, the place embodies spring vibes. The hill owns your heart with its wildflowers, trees, rhododendrons, and Magnolia covering it. 

The hike begins at Godawari and sets out on a journey through tropical forests with gravel paths. The path has various shortcut routes making it easier for hikers. If the weather’s in your favor, you’d see the views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Gaurishanker Himal. 

If you went to this place during March and April, you’d also witness the religious ceremony at the Phulchowki Mai Temple. Phulchowki hike is also renowned for bird sightseeing and offers the sights of birds such as Yellow-browed, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Rufous-gorged, and a wide variety of butterflies and animals, all making for an immersive nature experience. 

Highlights:

• Spectacular views of Annapurna and Gaurishankar range 
• Gorgeous botanical garden featuring a wide range of biodiversity
• Religious Hindu temple, Phulchowki Mai 
• Beautiful view of the Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu never disappoints you with its natural beauty alongside its rich history, art, and cultural diversity. So getting in touch with nature while hiking is a great idea that you might want to add to your to-do things in Kathmandu. Give these mentioned best hiking in Kathmandu a shot and make your journey filled with adventure. 

Tags: Hotel in kathmandu, Travel Tips, Travel to Nepal