Best Short Treks from Kathmandu

What if I say, you have never even thought of such an amazing place ever?

Indeed, there are many such places just around the valley of Kathmandu, where you can rejoice in the vivid scenery at its fullest: also, within a short time.

Being positioned right between the hills, Kathmandu valley is a flat land crowded by zillions of houses and millions of populations. It is quite surprising to say that such a bustling city hides so many amazing places.

What’s more astonishing is, many residents are literally unaware of these destinations, which are more than incredible. From the sunrise to the mountain view, each is capable of leaving you in awe at least for a few seconds.

These treks are easily accessible, and many don’t require permits. In addition, these short treks can be undertaken by anyone, regardless of their age and gender. I would say, these treks are just a perfect startup for beginners.

1. Nagarkot

About 32 km northeast of the legendary capital, Kathmandu, basks a beautiful Nagarkot reflecting warm sceneries of snow-clad mountain vistas all over the skyline.

As the sun gradually scales above the horizon, the milieu becomes enhanced with glamour and ecstasy offering a brilliant outlook of Mt. Everest, and other ranges.

The lush valleys and terraced fields appear glittering for a moment when the sun is positioned exactly on the right scale. This marvelous view is, indeed, a rare glimpse of nature.

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2. Kakani

Within an hour's drive from Kathmandu arrives Kakani, roaring loud and proud of its unique traditions and heritage. This place lies in a tranquil setting amidst sparse Tamang settlements.

While zillions of hotels and guesthouses are waiting to serve you the delicious delicacies of Japanese Rainbow Trout Fish and Local cocks, you will be amazed by their hospitality. The sloppy hills are transformed into terraces for agriculture purposes, which appear stunning not only to eyes but also to cameras.

You can also watch varieties of birds playing with the brisk wind. When the weather is clear, you may as well witness the Langtang Moraine from the hilltop of Kakani.

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3. NamoBuddha

NamoBuddha is one of the epic vantage points offering incredible views of the mountainous panorama within a short time. Its unique architecture and soul-purifying rituals create a peaceful ambiance for meditation as well as for a holy dive. What’s more, the story behind the Namo Buddha Monastery is very much intoxicating.

Once upon a time, there was a prince who went off to the palace hunting. While exploring the forest, he encountered a tigress lying helpless on the ground with its cubs pleading for their mother’s life.

Being consumed by that love, the prince cut his flesh and let the tiger feed his fresh blood and flesh. He sacrificed himself for the life of the tigress.

Later, when the king went in search of the prince, he found the remains of his son. Then, he buried his remains in that same place. After that, a shrine was built in memory of such a great kind man.

People believed him to be the Buddha who took rebirth in Lumbini.

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4. Chandragiri

Chandragiri is a natural wonder, easily accessible from Kathmandu, and can be enjoyed in a relatively short time.

The top of Chandragiri Hill bestows an electrifying outlook of the great Mt. Everest, Mt. Api, and other countless ridges and peaks.

The evergreen hills of the Chandragiri are another brilliant aspect that endorses the charm of Chandragiri.

 Historical myths claim that the legend Prithvi Narayan Shah, the unifier of Nepal, thought of conquering the Kasthamandap Kingdom (present Kathmandu valley) when he saw the valley from atop the hill of Chandragiri.

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5. Phulchowki

Phulchowki (literally translates to Hill of Flowers) is the highest point of the Kathmandu valley, which is also a beautiful vantage point to witness some of the splendid outlooks of the Himalayan ranges.

Apart from these, it is well-known for its beautiful botanical garden, which is adorned with fragrant and eye-captivating flowers.

Hindus have spiritual intimacy with this place; consequently, hundreds of pilgrimages make their way to Phulchowki just to delve into the religious ambiance.

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6. Chisapani

Chisapani (literally translates to ‘cold water’) has been one of the finest trekking routes around the outskirts of the Kathmandu valley.

During the hike, you will intrude through the aromatic jungles of rhododendron for about 5 hours before making an appearance at the stunning hill of Chisapani. From there, you could see a variety of landscapes, each capable of leaving you breathless for a while.

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7. Dhulikhel

Dhulikhel is the epitome of a scenic vantage point, opening up the incredible vistas of mountains and deep valleys shattered with countless settlements.

The bulky stones pointing at the Himalayan corners are the perfect place to spot this great natural vivacity.

The entry point leads you along 1000 stairs until making an appearance at the top hill of Dhulikhel.

Chhyang (Local alcohol made by fermentation of rice) is like a must-taste liquor in this region.

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8. Lakuri Bhanjyang

Lakuri Bhanjyang is one of the least explored destinations easily accessible from Kathmandu. The trail climbs sheer heights through lush woodland until arriving at a plateau.

Standing there, you could witness the brilliant scenery of Himalayan ranges if the weather is clear. The environment is very much peaceful; so, you may request a yoga tour in this place.

Get ready to mark your footprints.

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9. Shivapuri National Park

Because of the easy availability of a wide variety of plants and animals, Shivapuri National Park has been receiving a heavy influx of tourists for the past several years.

Rhesus monkey, barking deer, jungle cat, and golden jackal are a few mostly encountered faunal diversity while traveling along with distinctive broad leaf Himalayan forest up to the Shivapuri plateau.

Also, it can be a perfect trek for bird-watchers as over 300 species of birds were spotted by the Ornithologists in this region.

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10. Champadevi

Walking along the off-the-beaten stony stairs, you will traverse a jungle of pine to make an appearance at the hilltop of Champadevi. An open shrine at Champadevi, although not so captivating, can be a place to rest for a while. Higher up in the plateau, thinly scattered settlements could be seen. But, as you make your way up to the viewpoint, all the fatigue fades away all of a sudden. The gorgeous Annapurna massif, Mt. Everest and Langtang Moraine appear at their best from this vantage point of Champadevi.

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11. Ranikot

Ranikot is another vantage point offering an incredible glimpse of Kathmandu valley. Thinly scattered settlements lead you up to the plateau at the hilltop of Ranikot. Langtang Moraine could be witnessed if the weather is clear.

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12. Bethanchowk

Bethanchowk is a hidden gem living in tranquility near the bustling city of Kathmandu. The hilltop of Bethanchowk is the highest point of the Mahabharat Range, which extends from western India to Eastern India.

When the weather is clear, not only can you see the spectacular mountain ranges, but also the incredible Kathmandu valley up to Janakpur in Eastern Nepal. The trails are completely off-the-beaten, and you will have to carry a tent and foodstuffs on your own before hitting on the trail.

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