The Kathmandu Valley Trek is an incredible short trekking adventure on the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley. The trek is perfect for those trekkers who do not have much time on their schedule. You can also take this trek as a training ground for more challenging treks in the country.

This Kathmandu Valley cultural trekking trail passes through the beautiful settlements of Chisapani and Nagarkot. The breathtaking views of Himalayan sunrise overlooking the snow-capped mountains are the highlight of this trek. We also pass through the forested trails of the Shivapuri National Park.

Moreover, you will also experience the cultural settlements and lifestyle of the Tamang community. The trek covers a diverse landscape of the Kathmandu Valley in just 3 days. While the trip is ideal in all seasons, Autumn and Spring are the best time for this trek. This stunning trek is ideal for all skill levels and possible with kids and seniors.

Furthermore, the alpine forests, villages settlements, and spectacular mountain views are the prime attractions of the trek. The trails are quiet and ideal for those who love a quiet adventure in the lap of mother nature. Read further for more information about the Kathmandu Valley trek and other information in detail.

Significant Highlights of the Trip

• Trekking the beautiful trekking trails of Chisapani (2,350m/ 7,709ft)
• 360 degree panoramic sunrise view from Nagarkot (2,100m/ 6,889ft)
• Breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas
• Walking along the forested trails of the pristine Shivapuri National Park
• Pilgrimage of the historical Changu Narayan Temple in Bhaktapur
• Best accommodation facilities and incredible hospitalities
• A cultural exploration of the Kathmandu Valley and its ancient settlements
• Incredible hospitality of the local people
• Tasting the delicious local cuisine in the accommodations

Kathmandu Valley Trek Difficulty

The Kathmandu Valley trek 3 days is a low altitude trek around Kathmandu Valley. This trek does not require rugged walks in the harsh terrain or rigorous training before the trek. However, the 900m uphill hike from Sundarijal to Chisapani is quite tough and requires 5 to 6 hours of rigorous walking.

Similarly, the hike from Chisapani to Nagarkot requires 6 to 7 hours of trekking as well. Trekkers with all skill levels including beginners and veterans can take this trek. Kids and senior citizens can also take this trek. This short duration trek is also comfortable due to its length.

The difficulty level of this trek is similar to the famous Ghorepani-Poonhill trek in the Annapurna region. Overall, this trek is an easy to moderate adventure around the Kathmandu Valley.

When is the Best Time for the Trek?

This short and scenic trek around the Kathmandu Valley and thus is doable all round the year. This comfortable trek is ideal for all seasons. However, the Autumn months of September, October, and November and the Spring months of March, April, and May are ideal for trekking.

Autumn

Autumn is the peak season for trekking in Nepal as it provides stable weather conditions. Trekkers will get the clear and unobstructed views of the snow-capped mountains in the Autumn season.

Moreover, you will not get overcast and cloudy skies as it is a post-monsoon season. trekkers will also have the opportunity to explore the cultural aspect of the region as many festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and others fall in Autumn.

Spring

Spring season is the second best time to trek in the country. The Spring months from March to May offer beautiful scenic trails along the region. The forested trails covered with Rhododendron trees make the whole environment colorful.

Moreover, trekking in Spring is favorable due to the soothing and stable weather. You can also spot rare and endangered wildlife along the trails as the animals remain active after a long winter hibernation.

Besides these, the offseason treks in the Monsoon season is challenging due to the unexpected rainfalls and slippery trails. You can still trek but you need to carry a waterproof jacket and rain covers. You might also find some leeches along the trail. In winters, you will experience heavy snowfall in the hill station of Nagarkot. Hence, Autumn and Spring season are the best time for trekking around Kathmandu Valley.

Food and the Accommodation Facilities Along the Trek?

This trekking around Kathmandu Valley starts from the pristine landscapes of Sundarijal and takes you along the trails towards the Chisapani village. Chisapani is also the starting point of the Langtang Valley Trek hence you can find many accommodation facilities including lodges and teahouses in the region.

Nagarkot is a popular hill station around the Kathmandu Valley. It has many accommodation facilities that range from lodges to five-star hotels. The cost of the accommodation also depends upon the facilities provided. The best view of the mountains is another factor that determines the price of accommodation in the region.

Moreover, the awe-inspiring mountain views including Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang mountain ranges from the window of your room is the prime attraction of the trek. You can also view the breathtaking green hills and valleys from Nagarkot. Thus, the accommodation facilities are of high standard in the trek.

Furthermore, food facilities along the trek are quite basic as well. You will get served the Nepali dish of “Dal Bhat” along the lodges and hotels. Dal Bhat consists of rice, dal (pulses), lentils, spinach, vegetables, gundruk, pickles, meat, and others. You can also get various international cuisine like momo, chowmein, pizza, pasta, burger, and others in the hotels around the Kathmandu Valley.

What are the Permits Required for the Kathmandu Valley Trekking?

The Kathmandu Valley cultural trekking trail passes through the spectacular landscapes of Shivapuri National Park. The entrance ticket fee of the Shivapuri National Park is 1,000 NRP for a foreign tourist and 600 NRP for SAARC nationals.

The entrance fee for Nepalese nationals is 100 NPR while children do not require any fee. Unlike most of the treks in the country, you do not require a TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System) for this short trek around Kathmandu valley.

Why to Trek Around Kathmandu Valley?

Incredible mountain views

The breathtaking mountain views are the highlight of the trek. You can observe eight mountain ranges in Nepal. Moreover, the snow-capped mountains look incredibly beautiful in the backdrop of the green hills. You can observe these snow-capped mountains along the trail and also in the various viewpoints at Nagarkot.

Short and comfortable trails

The Kathmandu Valley Trek 3 days is short and comfortable. Many trekkers also go for a practice trek around Kathmandu Valley before attempting the more challenging Mt. Everest Base Camp and Mt. Annapurna Base Camp treks.

Moreover, the short duration trek has accessible trails on a smoother terrain. Altitude sickness is not a difficulty as it is a low altitude trek. However, you need to be careful along the terrains.

Cultural exploration

You can also explore the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the community. The beautiful Tamang settlement along the trails will enchant you. The traditional architecture of the house will give you a complete cultural tour of the place.

Gorgeous Himalayan sunrise

The spectacular sunrise from the Nagarkot viewpoint is enchanting. It is one of the best viewpoints to observe the Himalayan sunrise overlooking snow-capped mountains. Moreover, the golden rays of the sun falling over the silver mountains is an incredible experience of a lifetime.

Essential Tips for the Kathmandu Valley Trekking

• Hydrate and rest well during the journey
• Light packing with only necessary equipment is ideal as it is a short trek
• Hiring a guide will help you immensely as the trails are not well marked
• Carry protein bars, granola bars, chocolate bars, snickers, and others to munch on during the trek
• Pre-book all your food and accommodation facilities
• Get a Travel insurance package
• Carry a map of the trails

The Final Say

The Kathmandu Valley trek is an incredible adventure in the surrounding landscapes of Kathmandu Valley. The trails of this short but exciting trek passes through the green hilly landscapes of Kathmandu Valley. Trekkers can observe the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain ranges in all its glory.

The trek is ideal for those trekkers who do not have much time on their schedule. It is also perfect for those who cannot trek the harsh landscapes of the Everest region or Annapurna region. This trek is ideal for all skill levels from beginners to veterans. You can contact us for more details regarding this Kathmandu Valley trek.

Day 01: 40 minutes drive to Shivapuri Forest, Sundarijal and hike up to ChisaPani

Day 02: Trek to Nagarkot.

Day 03: Trek down to Changunarayan Temple and Drive back to Kathmandu.

Detailed Itinerary of the Kathmandu Valley Trek

Day 01: Drive to Shivapuri Forest, Sundarijal and Hike up to Chisa Pani

Maximum altitude: Chisapani (2,350m)

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

Drive duration: 1 hour

Our representative will pick you up from the hotel early in the morning. A private vehicle will take you to Sundarijal. The scenic drive takes you around the hilly routes to arrive at Sundarijal which is the starting point of the trek.

We will trek for around 5-6 hours from Sundarijal to arrive at Chisapani (2,350m), which is the entry point for the Shivapuri National Park. The spectacular National park is home to wide varieties of rich flora and fauna and Shivapuri hill.

Furthermore, the trails then pass through the traditional Tamang settlement of Mulkharka. We descend further through the fertile farmlands to arrive at Chisapani. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Chisapani.

Day 02: Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot

Maximum altitude: Nagarkot (2100m)

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

We will wake up early to observe the breathtaking sunrise overlooking the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayan range. We will have our breakfast enjoying this incredible scenario and then head towards Nagarkot.

We will then trek to Chauki Bhanjyang where we had our lunch. You can observe the beautiful Himalayas from Everest and Kanchenjunga in the east to Dhaulagiri in the west. You will arrive at the beautiful hill station of Nagarkot and stay overnight at the accommodation of your choice.

Day 03: Trek down to Changunarayan Temple and Drive back to Kathmandu

Maximum altitude: Nagarkot (2175m)

Trek duration: 4-5 hours

Drive duration: 1 hour

We wake up early to observe the gorgeous sunrise overlooking the 360-degree panoramic views of the eight different mountain ranges. After observing this incredible view we will trek down to the ancient temple of Changunarayan for around 4-5 hours.

Built by King Hari Datta Varma in 323 AD, the Changu Narayan temple is the oldest in the valley. We can also observe the breathtaking views of the villages of Sankhu and Bhaktapur from the hill. There are many medieval sculptures and carvings in the temple premises that are of great historical and cultural significance.

From Changunarayan Temple we will drive back to Kathmandu.

Trip Cost US$ 300 Per person

Cost Includes:

Cost Excludes:

Start Date - End Data	Status	Cost	Book This Trip
09/04/2023 - 09/06/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/07/2023 - 09/09/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/10/2023 - 09/12/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/13/2023 - 09/15/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/16/2023 - 09/18/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/19/2023 - 09/21/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/21/2023 - 09/23/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/25/2023 - 09/27/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/27/2023 - 09/29/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/28/2023 - 09/30/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
09/30/2023 - 10/02/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/01/2023 - 10/03/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/03/2023 - 10/05/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/06/2023 - 10/08/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/09/2023 - 10/11/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/10/2023 - 10/12/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/11/2023 - 10/13/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/12/2023 - 10/14/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/13/2023 - 10/15/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/15/2023 - 10/17/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/16/2023 - 10/18/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/17/2023 - 10/19/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/18/2023 - 10/20/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/19/2023 - 10/21/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/21/2023 - 10/23/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/23/2023 - 10/25/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/24/2023 - 10/26/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/27/2023 - 10/29/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/28/2023 - 10/30/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/29/2023 - 10/31/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
10/31/2023 - 11/02/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/01/2023 - 11/03/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/02/2023 - 11/04/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/03/2023 - 11/05/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/05/2023 - 11/07/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/06/2023 - 11/08/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/08/2023 - 11/10/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/10/2023 - 11/12/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/13/2023 - 11/15/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/14/2023 - 11/16/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/16/2023 - 11/18/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/18/2023 - 11/20/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/20/2023 - 11/22/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/21/2023 - 11/23/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/22/2023 - 11/24/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/23/2023 - 11/25/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/24/2023 - 11/26/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/25/2023 - 11/27/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/26/2023 - 11/28/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/27/2023 - 11/29/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/28/2023 - 11/30/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
11/30/2023 - 12/02/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/01/2023 - 12/03/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/05/2023 - 12/07/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/08/2023 - 12/10/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/09/2023 - 12/11/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/10/2023 - 12/12/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/13/2023 - 12/15/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/14/2023 - 12/16/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/15/2023 - 12/17/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/16/2023 - 12/18/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/17/2023 - 12/19/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/24/2023 - 12/26/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/27/2023 - 12/29/23	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
12/31/2023 - 01/02/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
01/04/2024 - 01/06/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
01/08/2024 - 01/10/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
01/18/2024 - 01/20/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
01/28/2024 - 01/30/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
01/31/2024 - 02/02/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
02/02/2024 - 02/04/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
02/11/2024 - 02/13/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
02/14/2024 - 02/16/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
02/21/2024 - 02/23/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
02/25/2024 - 02/27/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip
02/28/2024 - 03/01/24	Guaranteed	US$ 300 per person	Book this trip

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where are the trails of the Kathmandu Valley trek located?

The trails of this trek lie in the Northern parts of Kathmandu Valley. The trek lies in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur district and passes through the settlements of Sundarijal, Chisapani, and Nagarkot.

2. What is the highest point of the Kathmandu Valley trek?

Chisapani (2,350m) is the highest point of the trek.

3. What is the cost of the Kathmandu Valley trek?

The trek costs around US$150 and US$200 on average.

4. How difficult is the Kathmandu Valley trek of 3 days?

The trek is relatively easy as it is a short duration trek. However, the uphill 900m climb from Shivapuri to Chisapani can be quite challenging for trekkers.

5. Should I hire a guide and porter for the trek?

Hiring a guide makes the trek relatively easy and comfortable as the trails are not well marked. Since this is a short duration trek, a porter might not be necessary. However, hiring a guide and a porter depends upon the trekker's desire and requirement.

6. Packing List for Kathmandu Valley Trekking

The Kathmandu Valley Trek 3 days is not a high-altitude trek and hence you should pack as light as possible. Some of the essential things for the trek are as follows:

Clothing

• Two pairs of light trousers
• 2-3 light shirts
• One pair of hiking shoes
• Two pairs breathable socks
• Windproof/ waterproof jacket
• Trekking Hat or cap
• Raincovers
• Thermals

First aid

• Band-aids
• Sanitary pads/ Tampons
• Anti-nausea tablets
• Water purification tablets
• Insect repellent creams
• Hand Sanitizer

Accessories

• Camera
• Solar Chargers
• Power Banks
• Extra Batteries
• Sleeping Bags
• Moisturizer

Important documents

• Passport
• Travel permits

7. Is Hiring a Guide and Porter for the Trek Necessary?

Hiring a guide will help trekkers to find their way along the trail. However, you might not need a porter as you do not have to pack densely in this is a short duration trek. The trek from Sundarijal to Chisapani and Chisapani to Nagarkot requires 7 to 8 hours of trekking.

Hence, the trek can get challenging without a guide as the trails are not well marked. The trails are narrow and many sideways can be quite distracting. There are not many settlements around as it is an off the beaten trek. Walking in the forested trail is not safe and thus a professional guide will be of great help along the journey. However, with proper planning and a map in hand, you can trek without a guide as well.