Introduction
Kathmandu, home to over 1.5 million residents, is the busiest and largest city in Nepal. This busy city is home to numerous temples and ancient monuments. Kathmandu’s rich history and culture have drawn many tourists from all over the world. This busy city has everything, from tall commercial buildings to big hotels. But apart from the city hustle and bustle, it has some of the best hiking trails in the entire region.
Surrounded by hills from all four sides, Kathmandu has numerous hiking destinations. Each is unique and has its own unique highlights. Some are strenuous, some are easy, some are accessible, whereas some are difficult to access. The hiking trail of Kathmandu’s hills is one never to miss if you’re an outsider.
Let’s look into some of the best that Kathmandu has to offer.
Kakani Hike
Located 23 km from Kathmandu, this is among the most popular day hikes around the city. Known for its stunning views of the Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and Ganesh mountains, it is mostly crowded. However, most people ride to Kakani from Kathmandu and rarely hike. The hiking trail from Kakani to Bhanjyang is approximately 8 km long and takes about 4 hours.
This hike also allows you to look into the rural lifestyle of the locals. The hike is not too challenging and can last about 4 hours to ascent. Kakani is also famous for its fish farming, and after you complete the hike, you can enjoy the delicious fish dishes prepared by one of the local eateries. Kakani is a popular day hike destination because of its famous sunrise and sunset views over the distant Himalayan Ranges. Pine and rhododendrons are often sighted along the trails of Kakani.
Quick Insight on the Kakani Hike:
- Highest Altitude: 2073 meters
- Hike Distance: 8 km
- Hike Duration: 4-5 hours
- Start Point: Kakani, Nuwakot
- Ending Point: Bhanjyang
Champadevi Hike
Champadevi could well be Kathmandu’s most famous and prominent hike. It is close to Kathmandu, has a well-maintained hiking route, and is shorter in trail distance. It has been popular among every age group. The Champadevi hill is just 20 km from Kathmandu and lies in the Dakshinkali Municipality.
This scenic day hike has some of the most photogenic trails. Depending on your itinerary and accessibility, you can start the hike in Khare or Bhanjyang. The ending point of this hike is the Champadevi Temple. The Champadevi Hill is a popular spot for meditation and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Gaurishanker, Langtang, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal. Along the hike, you can see wild boars and the endangered barking deer.
Quick Insight on the Champadevi Hike:
- Highest Altitude: 2250 meters
- Hike Distance: 16 km
- Hike Duration: 5-6 hours
- Start Point: Khare
- Ending Point: Champadevi
Shivapuri Hike
The second-highest hill around Kathmandu, Shivapuri, is 12 km from the city. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, which lies below the national park. The hike is challenging due to its accent, and many stairs are on the way to the top of Shivapuri. This hike is famous among youths, with daily visitors crowding the trail around the Shivapuri National Park.
The trail passes through a densely forested area of the heavily guarded national park. You’ll need permits to enter the Park. The hike also passes by several religious sites, including the sacred temple of Budhanilkantha. Shivapuri has many starting and ending points, so you can customize your own hike around this region. Bagdwar and Bishnudwar are famous destinations around Shivapuri National Park and hold religious significance.
Quick Insights On the Shivapuri Hike:
- Highest Altitude: 2732 meters
- Hike Distance: 14 km
- Hike Duration: 5-6 hours
- Start Point: Budhanilkantha
- Ending Point: Bagdwar/ Bishnudwar/ Shivapuri Peak
Nagarkot Sanga Hike
The Nagarkot to Sanga hike is a new addition to the hikes around Kathmandu. The ending point, Nagarkot, is among the most famous destinations in Nepal. The hike starts in Sanga Bhanyang, which is located southwest of Kathmandu. At Nala Bhanjyang, you can also explore the magnificent Dhakpe Sedrupling Buddhist Monastery. From Nala Bhanjyang, we hike through a pleasant pine forest to Dulal Village.
The trail is approximately 16 km long and takes about 5 hours. It passes through beautiful forests, traditional villages, and temples, making it an unforgettable experience. This hike also gives you a glimpse of Everest. The panoramic views this hike offers are second to none.
Quick Insights On the Nagarkot Sanga Hike:
- Highest Altitude: 2175 meters
- Hike Distance: 16 km
- Hike Duration: 5-6 hours
- Start Point: Sanga
- Ending Point: Nagarkot
Chandragiri Hike
This short hike can be completed in less than three hours. The trail starts from Thankot and leads up to Chandragiri Hills. It passes through beautiful forests and small villages and offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas. The Champadevi-Chandragiri hike is best experienced during the dry seasons, which span from October to November and March to April.
At 2,460m, Bhasmasur Ridge offers captivating panoramas of the Kathmandu and Kulekhani valleys. The hike’s main highlight is the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, a pagoda-style shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are resorts and hotels at the top where you can spend the night.
Quick Insight on the Chandragiri Hike:
- Highest Altitude: 2460 meters
- Hike Distance: 3 km
- Hike Duration: 2-3 hours
- Start Point: Thankot
- Ending Point: Chandragiri Hills
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