Balthali Village Hiking

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Trip at a Glance

Duration3 Days

Trip GradeEasy

DestinationNepal

Maximum Altitude1,550 m

AccommodationHotel

Starts/EndsKathmandu

ActivitiesHiking

Best TimeMarch to May and September to November

Balthali Village Hiking is a highly popular hiking route surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. It offers the surrounding high green hills and is rich in fresh foliage. You'll witness a beautiful, uninterrupted vista of the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains, inspiring sentiments of peace.

The hike to Balthali village, about 40 km from Kathmandu, gives you the chance to witness Nepal's rich cultural traditions. It also offers the opportunity to interact with the locals while supporting Nepal's attempts to promote village tourism.

From the Balthali village, you'll see the snow-capped peaks, including Dorjee Lhakpa and Langtang in the north. The views to the south are dominated by the tall hills of the lushly green Mahabharat Range.

The region is densely forested and home to a rich variety of flora. Bright Sal, Magnolia, and Rhododendron trees line the slope that undulates out to terrace fields. Nature lovers and bird watchers can spend days discovering and learning about some unique wildlife species.

After leaving Balthali Village, your next stop is Namobuddha (1750 m), a holy place cherished by Buddhists. The route passes through charming villages and scenic paths. The stupa and monastery of Namobuddha radiate a calm serenity that makes them ideal places for contemplation and peace.

As you continue your journey, the trail takes you to Dhulikhel (1440 m). It is a beautiful village renowned for its breathtaking Himalayan sunrise and sunset vistas. The town's vibrant bazaars and well-preserved Newar architecture contrast the tranquillity of the trekking paths. You can see the snow-capped ranges from Karyolung in the east to Himalchuli in the west.

Highlights of Balthali Village Hiking

Witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayan range from hilltop vantage points.
Escape the city hustle and immerse yourself in the serene ambience of Balthali Village.
Enjoy well-marked and beginner-friendly hiking paths that wind through terraced fields and charming villages.
Explore lush rhododendron forests, blooming wildflowers, and diverse bird species along the trails.
Engage with friendly locals, experience rural Nepali life, and savour authentic Nepali cuisine.
Stay in cosy guesthouses or homestays that offer a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.
Capture stunning shots of the natural landscapes, sunrises, sunsets, and local life.
Enjoy panoramic vistas of terraced fields, rolling hills, and the majestic Himalayas.
Bhaktapur has a five-story Nyatapol temple, a golden gate, and 55 carved window palace buildings built from the 13th to the 18th centuries.
The tallest Shiva statue (144 feet) at Sanga

Itinerary

This is our standard and recommended Itinerary for Balthali Village Hiking.

Trip PlanExpand all

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu (1,310 m) to Khopasi and hike to Balthali village (1,730 m). Duration: 6-7 hours

You drive to Bhaktapur after breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu. Visit Sanga to witness the highest Shiva statue in the world after exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square. You drive to the lovely village of Khopasi via Panauti after lunch at Sanga. You start your hike from Khopasi to the settlement of Balthali. You can observe Nepal's first hydropower project on the route to Balthali.

Then, you continue through the sacred settlement and terraced farms. You can walk an hour to Dada Gau (a typical Tamang village where you can witness their way of life and domestic animals). After a brief stroll to this village, return to the hotel and rest.

Meals: Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Day 02: Hike from Balthali Village to Dhulikhel (1,550 m) via Namobuddha. Duration: 5-6 hours walking

You witness the best sunrise view from Balthali in the early morning. After breakfast at the hotel, you hike to the Namobuddha, a Buddhist Holy place. You can see magnificent views of Gaurishankar and many other Himalayas. You take lunch at Namobuddha and then walk to Dhulikhel through a friendly settlement village and forests.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Day 03: Dhulikhel Sightseeing and Drive back to Kathmandu. Duration: 5-6 hours.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

If the above itinerary doesn’t meet your needs, we can design a Tailor-Made Program based on your travel plans and requirements,Reach our travel experts.

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Cost Includes

All grounded transport as per the program.
One highly experienced hiking guide and his expenses.
Three times meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with tea/coffee on hiking.
Accommodation in Balthali and Namo Buddha.
All necessary permits.
Government taxes.
Office service charges.

Cost Excludes

Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu.
All kind of cold drinks and alcoholic beverage in hiking.
Your personal nature expenses.
Tip to hiking guide.

FAQs

Q1. Is the Balthali Village hiking tour suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. The hiking trail is relatively easy and suitable for beginners and families. The gradual ascent and well-marked path make it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

Q2. What should I pack for the hiking tour?

Pack comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, a camera, a small backpack, and any personal medications you might need. It's also a good idea to have a rain jacket or umbrella, as weather conditions can change quickly.

Q3. Are there any cultural sites to visit in Balthali Village?

Yes, Balthali Village has several temples and shrines that you can visit to learn about the local culture and traditions.

Q4. What should I expect in terms of food during the hiking tour?

Guesthouses and lodges in the Village usually offer meals that include both local and basic international dishes. You can expect traditional Nepali cuisine, as well as options that cater to a range of tastes.

Q5. Do I need to obtain any permits for the hiking tour?

Permits are generally not required for this hiking tour.

Q6. Can I interact with the locals during the hike?

Yes, interacting with locals is encouraged and can provide valuable insights into the local culture and way of life. The people in the villages along the way are known for their warmth and hospitality.