Best Day Hikes Near Kathmandu: Exploring Nepal’s Capital City

When you think about Nepal, only one thing crosses your mind: natural beauty and mountains. Nepal is a gorgeous country. And Kathmandu is the capital of the nation, nestled at its heart. Being the capital city, it is always bustling, happening, and dusty.

So, when you yearn for scenic views of mountains and a serene environment, you could go for a one-day hike around Kathmandu. On these day hikes near the city, you will step into a world of breathtaking Himalayan views, serene landscapes, and lush greenery.

These short trails are ideal for adventurers of all age groups and offer a rejuvenating retreat near Nepal’s vibrant capital. Whether you are a nature lover in search of a soulful retreat or an exciting adventure, the day hikes around Kathmandu promise moments of beauty and wonder.

These day hikes are best for beginners, families, or someone who wants a thrilling experience in a short time.  So, let’s explore the best day hikes near Kathmandu’s surrounding hills.

Best Day Hikes Near Kathmandu

There are numerous hiking trails in Kathmandu Valley and its surroundings. Here, we have listed some of the best day hikes near Kathmandu:

Sundarijal Hiking

Sundarijal unfolds as a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace. It is situated within the Shivapuri National Park on the valley’s northern side. This captivating hike begins at Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu.

As you venture more profoundly, the path winds through the lush expanse of Shivapuri National Park, alive with the symphony of cascading waterfalls, rustling leaves, and the distant calls of wildlife.

It is a heaven for nature lovers as you’ll be hiking with a sensory delight—rhododendron forests, vibrant wildflowers, and flowing streams accompany your journey. You will also get to visit the tranquil Nagi Gompa, a hilltop monastery where colorful prayer flags dance in the mountain breeze.

Here, you will get an immersive experience of Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Sundarijal hike is ideal for all adventurers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful day of exploration.

Insights

• Starting Point: Budhanilkantha or Sundarijal Village, Kathmandu.
• Ending Point: Kathmandu
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• Route Highlights: Budhanilkantha → Shivapuri National Park → Nagi Gompa → Sundarijal waterfalls → Villages and forests.

Highlights

• Take blessings on the spiritual Budhanilkantha Temple, home to the Lord Vishnu.
• Pass through the diverse ecosystems of Shivapuri National Park.
• Visit the peaceful Buddhist monastery, Nagi Gompa, and witness breathtaking views.
• Experience serene forest walks, vibrant birdlife, and a glimpse of Nepalese village life.

Shivapuri Hiking / Nagi Gompa Hike

It is one of the shortest hikes in Kathmandu Valley. Shivapuri Hill, also known as Nagi Gompa Hike is the second highest hill near Kathmandu, only second to Fulchowki hill station. The hike starts from Budhanilkantha temple. As you traverse, you will see flora and fauna along the way. The hike is a perfect escape from the bustling capital, Kathmandu.

As you follow the trail, you will be welcomed by lush forests and the chirping of birds and reach the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. After reaching the peak, you get to witness the Langtang Himalayan range vividly, including Mt. Langtang Lirung, Mt. Ganesh Himal, Ganjala Peak, Mt. Langtang Ri, Dorje Lakpa, and the magnificent Mt. Gaurishankar.

Insights

• Starting Point: Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu.
• Ending Point: Kathmandu
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Route Highlights: Budhanilkantha → Shivapuri National Park → Nagi Gompa → Shivapuri peak.

Highlights

• Explore Shivapuri National Park and Conservation Area
• Get lost in the Rhododendron and Pine Forest
• Go to Nagi Gompa, a Buddhist Monastery, and explore their culture.
• Witness Majestic Views of Langtang Himalayan Range and Kathmandu Valley.

Chandragiri Hiking

Chandragiri hike is one of the most popular one-day hike destinations near Kathmandu Valley. The Chandragiri hill is situated at a height of 2,551 meters on the outskirts of Kathmandu.

In this hike, you will witness majestic mountain Vistas from east to west, such as Annapurna, Mt. Everest, Ganesh Himal, Mount Manaslu, and the Langtang Dorje Lakpa.

The most suitable hiking route is from Machhegaun. It follows a zigzag trail through the overgrown forest, and it offers gorgeous views of Kathmandu.

The best time to go for a hike is in Spring, Autumn, and Winter. When you reach the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain vistas and go for a cable car ride as well.

Insights

• Height: 2,551m
• Starting Point: Machhegaun
• Ending Point: Chandragiri
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Highlights

• Witness the mind-blowing Vistas of the Langtang Ranges, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, Manaslu, Everest, and more
• Take a ride on Chandragiri Cable car while seeing the fantastic sight of the valley
• Visit Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple.
• Hike through adventurous forest trails and see wildlife.

Champadevi Hiking

Champadevi Hiking offers an unforgettable adventure combined with nature, spirituality, and breathtaking vistas. Champadevi Hill is situated around 2,300 meters above sea level. It is one of the most famous hiking spots in Kathmandu. You can go for the hike in two different ways.

Firstly, you can drive to Hattiban Resort and then start climbing the trail, or you can start your hike from Machhegaun of Kirtipur. Along the way, you’ll encounter stupas, shrines, and the sacred Champa Devi Temple, a revered site for Hindus and Buddhists.

The hike is peaceful yet invigorating. It offers panoramic views of the Langtang, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal ranges and the sprawling Kathmandu Valley and Taudaha Lake below.

Insights

• Height: 2,300 m
• Starting Point: Machhegaun, Kirtipur
• Ending Point: Champadevi Hill
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Highlights

• You get the panorama view of the Kathmandu Valley
• Witness the majestic mountain vistas from the top
• Take blessings from the Champa Devi Temple and monasteries.
• Enjoy the natural beauty and get lost in the serene and peaceful environment.

Phulchowki Hiking

Phulchowki Hill, at 2,782 meters, is the highest hill station in the Kathmandu Valley. The hiking trail is just about 14 kilometers southeast of the capital city. The name Phulchowki translates to “Hill of Flowers.”

The trails commence from the Godawari; you start with the view of the gorgeous Godawari botanical garden. Along the trail, you will pass through Rhododendron flowers and see birds like Yellow-browed Tit, Flycatchers, Red-billed Leiothrix, a variety of wildlife, and so on.

Likewise, at the top, you get a 360-degree view of the Kathmandu Valley and scenic views of mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and Gaurishankar. The hike takes 5 to 5.5 hours.

Insights

• Height: 2,782 m
• Starting Point: Godawari
• Ending Point: Phulchowki
• Duration: 5 to 5.5 hours

Highlights

• You get a 360-degree view of the Kathmandu Valley
• Play with snow when you come here in the winter season
• Pass through the dense forest and see various plants and wildlife.
• Take blessings from the Buddhist shrine.
• Visit Godawari Botanical Garden.

Kakani Hiking

Kakani is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Kathmandu. It is located at an altitude of 2,070 meters and is situated near Shivapuri National Park. It is an excellent hike near Kathmandu that offers an escape from the bustling city.

The hike starts from Balaju, Kathmandu. The trail takes you through alpine forests full of Oaks, Rhododendrons, and so on.

You will see spectacular views of the Himalayas, such as Gaurishankar, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal. You could also witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Oh, and don’t forget to try the local cuisine of the area. The hike is pretty easy.

Insights

• Height: 2,070 m
• Starting Point: Balaju, Kathmandu
• Ending Point: Kakani
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Highlights

• Get to experience the local culture and tradition of the Gurung community
• Spectate Stunning Sunrise and sunset
• Diverse Flora, Fauna and Oak and Rhododendron Forests
• See Spectacular Mountain Vistas
• Enjoy the serene and peaceful retreat from the city

Jamacho Hiking

Jamacho Hike is named after the Jamacho Buddhist Shrine. It is situated at a height of 2,130 meters. The hiking trail is one of the shortest and closest in the Kathmandu Valley. It takes only around 3 hours to complete the hike.

The hike begins near the Balaju bypass, also called Phulbari Gate. Travelers who love wildlife and nature will be happy while hiking.

They will hear the melodious chirping of birds and pass through the wilderness of the forest. You will witness the magnificent views of the Kathmandu valley and surrounding mountains and landscapes. At the small monastery, you will be at peace and calm.

Insights

• Height: 2,130 m
• Starting Point: Phulbari Gate
• Ending Point: Jamacho
• Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

Highlights

• Get to experience the local culture and tradition of the Gurung community.
• Spectate Stunning Sunrise and sunset.
• Diverse Flora, Fauna, and Oak and Rhododendron Forests.
• See Spectacular Mountain Vistas.
• Enjoy the serene and peaceful retreat from the city.

Balthali Hiking

Balthali hiking is an excellent choice for a day hike on an off-beaten track. Balthali is a gorgeous village just 43 km (27 miles) southeast of Kathmandu, located in the Kavrepalanchok District of Nepal. This hike takes you through the valleys, beautiful hills, rhododendron forests, and orange farms to a village settlement.

The hike starts with a drive to Panauti, 40 km east of Kathmandu. From there, you start walking the trail. During the hike, you will hear birds chirping and pass through a luscious green forest filled with rhododendrons, making it a delight for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

Oh, and if you have enough time, you could also spend a day at the Balthali Village Resort.

Insights

• Height: 1,730 m
• Starting Point: Panauti
• Ending Point: Balthali Village
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Highlights

• Enjoy scenic views of the hills and mountains nearby
• Experience the culture and traditions of the local communities
• Pass through dense forests of rhododendron, magnolia, and teak
• Opportunity to enjoy rural village life

Namo Buddha Hiking

Namo Buddha is a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site, also called Thrangu Tashi Yangtse. It is located at an altitude of 1,750 meters, just 38 km east of Kathmandu valley. The main attraction of the hike is the shrine, which radiates peace and calmness.

You can take two routes for the hike: Dhulikhel or Panauti. As you start to hike from Dhulikhel, you should see the beautiful Dhulikhel settlement. You will pass through forests, alleys, small villages, and terraced fields.

At the top, you will see enthralling and picturesque views of the Himalayas, such as Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Lirung, Gaurishankar, Rolwaling Himalayan range, etc.

Insights

• Height: 1,750 m
• Starting Point: Dhulikhel
• Ending Point: Namobuddha
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Highlights

• Visit Namobuddha Monastery (Thrangu Tashi Yangtse – a Karma Kagyu tradition Tibetan Buddhist monastery)
• Tour the beautiful Dhulikhel settlement and ancient Newari town of Panauti
• Get a 360-degree view of the picturesque Kathmandu Valley
• Experience the culture and traditions of the local communities
• Witness the Panoramic views of peaks like Langtang Lirung, Gaurishankar, Ganesh Himal, Rolwaling Himalayan range, Dorje Lakpa, etc.

Nagarkot Hiking

Nagarkot is situated at an elevation of 2,195 meters on the outskirts of Kathmandu. It is one of the most sought-after and the best hiking destinations near Kathmandu, the capital city. The hike begins in the historic Newari village of Sankhu. Before you embark on your adventure, you can immerse yourself in local culture and traditions and taste cuisine.

As you ascend through forested trails and terraced farmlands, the allure of Nagarkot’s panoramic vistas grows ever more enticing. At the top, you will see breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri to Kanchenjunga, with Manaslu, Everest, and Langtang in between.

You will also get to spectate the magical sunrise and sunset views from the Nagarkot Tower. Whether you complete the trek in a day or camp under the star-studded skies, this hike offers a perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and cultural immersion.

Insights

• Height:2,175 m
• Starting Point: Sankhu
• Ending Point: Nagarkot
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• Distance: 28 km

Highlights

• Witness the majestic Himalayan panorama, including Mount Everest.
• Explore the vibrant Newari culture at Sankhu.
• Witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset from the iconic Nagarkot Tower.
• Venture through the serene forests and terraced landscapes.
• Immerse yourself in local traditions and experiences.

Get a One-day Escape to Nature

We all talk about going for a hike or a trek, but we brush it off, saying we’re too busy or need numerous planning days. Naah, that’s where you’re wrong!

A day hike is perfect for energizing you in a peaceful environment. If you’re in the capital city or visiting, the best day hikes near Kathmandu are ideal for escaping, refreshing, and rediscovering in nature’s lap.

So, what’s stopping you? Get ready to swap the city’s buzz for the melody of rustling leaves and mountain whispers. Hurry up, grab your gear, and pick a hiking trail that speaks to your soul. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone craving a peaceful and serene environment, Kathmandu’s hills are calling.

We hope you will take this list as an invitation to go on a hike. Let the hiking trails surprise you and rejuvenate you!