In the mean time, enjoy the new country and mountain air in the backdrop of high snow-capped peaks.
A lovely three-day hike covering the best view points of Kathmandu valley rim hills”.
Trip Overview
'Short and pleasant country walks with fresh mountain air and mountain views.
Kathmandu Valley Rim Trekking is a short and enjoyable walk on the outskirt of the capital rim around high-rolling hills. This trek takes you around Kathmandu Valley. So it is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life for a few days. Moreover, it is known for its Kathmandu trekking tours.
You will be in complete ambiance of a fresh, natural environment on green hills covered within tall rhododendron-oaks-magnolia-pines and fir tree lines, facing a super panorama of the Central Himalaya range covering Manaslu-Ganesh-Langtang-Jugal Himal. And the range of peaks towards Gaurishankar and as far east as Everest(you may read our blog: Where is Mount Everest located?).
A great way to spend your holidays in Nepal with trekking in Kathmandu. The three-day walk is suitable for all age groups and various people since it leads you to the perfect natural surrounding within the pristine green forest of tall rhododendron-pines-oaks-magnolia and fir tree lines with ever-present views of the mountain range.
Starting from your hotel after breakfast, drive for short till reaching the northeastern valley rim at Sundarijal. From a pleasant farm, a town walk leads to climbing uphill into farm villages and terraced fields, then across forested areas to reach the high ridge of Chisapani.
Chisapani is a small settlement that offers a spectacular panorama of Himalayan peaks with striking sunrise. After a night at Chisapani, the journey's highest point, a walk leads towards the high scenic ridge to Nagarkot. It is another famous viewpoint with an alluring panorama of sunrise and sunset over various peaks.
At Nagarkot, you will stay in the comfort of nice hotels-lodge or resorts with rooms facing views of the high mountain range. Thus catch the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas, then head back to Kathmandu. While heading down, visit the ancient Changunarayan temple after a wonderful experience on Kathmandu Valley Rim Trekking.
Three meals during in Hiking. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
A professional Hiking guide including his all expenses.
Basic accommodation in Chisapani and tourist standard hotel in Nagarkot.
All entry fees for National Park and Local Government Tax.
Official charges.
What's Excluded in Kathmandu Valley Rim Trekking
All soft and hard drinks.
Your personal expenses.
Potter if needed cost ($60) for 3 days.
Hotel and other activities in Kathmandu.
Price & Availability
Group Discount Available
1 Person
US$ 310
2 - 4 Person
US$ 240
5 - 8 Person
US$ 210
9 - 20 Person
US$ 170
Itinerary of Kathmandu Valley Rim Trekking - 3 days
Day 01
Drive to Sundarijal and trek to Chisapani
Morning departs from the hotel for a short drive passing the Bouddhanath area to reach Sundarijal on the northeastern side of the Kathmandu Valley rim. From here, head up with a climb into cool forested areas of the Sundarijal watershed and water reservoir that supplies drinking water to Kathmandu city.
After the climb, reach Burlung Bhanjyang within the Tamang people's farm villages. And head into dense woodland to reach a hilltop with the vast green field at Chisapani for an overnight stop.
Chisapani offers a grand panorama of the Himalayan chain of peaks with stunning sunrise views in the comfort of a nice local lodge.
Max. Elevation:2,165
Duration:1 to 2 hours(drive) and 4 to 5 hours(trek)
Distance:15km(drive) and 13km(trek)
Day 02
Trek to Nagarkot
The next day morning starts with pleasant walks on the gradual winding path into the enchanting rhododendron pines forest with a downhill to Chowki-Bhanjyang. It is a small farm village with views of the east side of the Kathmandu Valley rim. With a short break, the walk continues on a gradual scenic path for a few hours, passing Jarsing Pauwa. From this village, our route of the Kathmandu Valley trek diverts to a high hill. Then downhill to Kartike Bhanyang. Again uphill walk to the famous and popular Nagarkot hill town for an overnight stop.
Nagarkot is located at 1,932 to 2,100 m high, a scenic hilltop famous for stunning sunrises and sunsets. The rays are reflected over a range of snow-capped mountains from Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang-Jugal Himal, and Mt. Gaurishankar to the eastern horizon towards the Everest range of peaks.
Max. Elevation:2,175
Duration:4 to 5 hours
Distance:22km
Day 03
Trek to Changunarayan and drive back to Kathmandu
With beautiful snapshots and moments in Nagarkot, this day downhill past several farm villages and terrace fields. And then enter into a patch of the cool forest towards a quaint town of the med-vial period at Changunarayan temple premises.
Changunarayan is one of the ancient temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. (One of the most famous and popular Hindu Gods after Brahma and Shiva.) You can see the great fine architecture of the pagoda, with time here to visit its serene surrounding. And then drive back to Kathmandu with the afternoon free for leisure shopping souvenirs.
Max. Elevation:1400
Duration:3 to 4 hours(trek) and 1.5 to 2 hours(drive)
Distance:12km(trek) and 32km(drive)
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we can create personalized travel arrangements.
Nearly all months of the year except the monsoon, wet months from mid-June to mid-September. March to May is the best time for the Kathmandu Valley trek. There will be clear views till afternoon when wildflowers are in bloom with fantastic views of mountains. A pleasant day to start, with a cooler morning and nighttime.
October to December is yet another best trekking season for clear views of peaks. The harsh sunlight days can be cold in the morning and night, depending on the altitude and overnight stop.
Kathmandu Valley Rim Trekking FAQs
Trekking Faqs
How do I prepare for the trek?
Since the trek covers high-altitude terrain over multiple days, physical preparation matters. Build your fitness with regular cardio and walking workouts before you arrive, and maintain a steady, comfortable pace on the trail so breathing stays controlled at altitude. Understanding the route and environment in advance also makes the trek more enjoyable and less stressful.
Why is Acclimatization necessary?
Acclimatization is essential to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Since the body needs time to adjust from low to high altitude, our itinerary builds in scheduled rest days. Staying hydrated, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and pacing yourself all help. Diamox (acetazolamide) can reduce AMS symptoms consult your guide or doctor before and during the trek if you feel you may need it.
What are the accommodation facilities on the trek?
Trekking routes throughout Nepal are supported by a wide network of teahouses and lodges that offer accommodation to trekkers. These establishments typically provide basic but comfortable rooms, usually with twin beds and shared bathroom facilities. In addition to lodging, many teahouses also offer meals and a communal dining area where trekkers can relax and socialize. Depending on the location and altitude, some teahouses may also provide extra amenities such as hot water showers, charging options, and limited internet access. Overall, they contribute to a convenient and culturally immersive trekking experience across the country.
What are the food facilities on the trek?
Food in the trek is the Nepalese diet of “Dal Bhaat.” You can have various other food items like noodles, chapati, thukpa, etc. Hot drinks like tea, garlic soup, coffee, etc., are popular in cold, high-altitude regions. Besides that, you can also carry your snacks to eat while trekking.
Does company provides porters and guides?
Yes, Eco Holidays Nepal provides clients with porters as part of a trekking package, porters will carry your main luggage, allowing you to enjoy your trek with just a light daypack. Also, Eco Holidays Nepal will provide you with a professional and licensed trekking guide, Your guide will lead the way to ensure your safety and will share local insights and make your journey meaningful with stories and cultural knowledge.
Please note that porter service may or may not be included in your selected package. If porter service is included, the cost will be covered in the package price. If the package does not include porter service, clients can request it separately, and the cost will need to be paid by the clients themselves. We’ll be happy to assist with porter arrangements based on your needs.
What are the payment methods in Nepal?
Common payment methods in Nepal are:
Cash-NPR
Credit and Debit Cards(visa, mastercard, American express)
Trekking with Eco Holidays Nepal is like walking through a dream with friends who truly care. We don't just guide you through breathtaking landscapes but also share beautiful memories and the heart of Nepal with you. With our warm hospitality, deep local knowledge, and genuine commitment to protecting nature and supporting all the local communities, every step you and we take becomes a beautiful memory that we will cherish forever.
You can get water facilities at the tea houses, or you can use water purification tablets on tap water. Bottled water is also valuable in the teahouses.
Hiking from Chisapani to Nagarkot and Dhulikhel was a peaceful, low-stress trip. Walking through pine forests and local villages with distant Himalayan views was lovely. Simple guest houses, good fresh food, and no altitude worries
CCarlos Ruiz17th Aug, 2022
Panoramic mountain views and local village walks right outside the capital
This foothill loop along the Kathmandu valley rim (Sundarijal, Chisapani, Nagarkot) is a fantastic warm-up. You walk through Shivapuri National Park forests and emerge onto ridges that offer sweeping views of the Himalayan chain from Annapurna to Everest. Watching the sunrise over the peaks from Nagarkot was a lovely highlight.
