Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek offers captivating hiking trails that showcase Nepal's rustic charm and cultural heritage.
Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek
In this 5-day hiking itinerary, you'll journey through picturesque landscapes, ancient villages, and breathtaking viewpoints as we explore Chisapani, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Namobuddha, Balthali, and Panauti. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a novice adventurer, these trails promise an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Nepal.
A Glimpse of the Himalayas in Chisapani
Driving from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, the entrance to Chisapani, marks the start of our expedition. On our easy climb, you pass through verdant forests, terraced farms, and charming villages. As you climb, the Himalayas emerge, providing spectacular views of peaks like Ganesh Himal and Langtang. When you arrive in Chisapani, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains, which sets the tone for the following days.
Nagarkot: Sunrise and Beyond
We climb away from Chisapani in the direction of Nagarkot, a well-liked hill station famed for its breathtaking sunrise views of the Himalayas. The trail winds through pine forests and quiet trails. During the day, you can explore the nearby hills or unwind to take in the peace. You can see Mt. Everest from the Nagarkot View Tower from a distance.
Dhulikhel: Cultural Richness and Tranquility
Our journey continues to Dhulikhel, the heart of the Kathmandu Valley's eastern hills. The hike offers a blend of panoramic mountain vistas and a closer look at Newari culture. Dhulikhel's old town is a treasure trove of intricately carved buildings and temples. As evening descends, you are treated to another breathtaking sunset view, with the sun painting the sky in hues of orange and purple.
Namobuddha and Balthali: Spiritual Exploration and Village Life
Namobuddha, a sacred site for Buddhists, is where legend has it that Lord Buddha sacrificed his body to a hungry tigress and her cubs. This spiritual location offers a calm atmosphere and expansive views of the surroundings. After more travel, you arrive at Balthali, a hidden gem encircled by terraced farms and dense woodlands. In this tranquil area, we can see and experience Nepal's genuine rural way of life.
Panauti: Where History and Nature Converge
Panauti is a charming medieval settlement with a remarkable architectural heritage. As you meander through its winding lanes, we encounter historic temples, elaborate woodwork, and a distinctive fusion of Hindu and Buddhist elements. The intersection of the Roshi and Punyamati rivers enhances Panauti's allure.
The things you can expect in Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek
- Magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas and admire vibrant sunsets painting the sky in hues
- Panoramic views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges.
- Tranquil forest trails and traditional villages.
- Pine-scented trails and serene surroundings.
- Absorb the tranquillity of Nagarkot Hill Station.
- Encounter the diverse cultures and traditions of Nepal
- Explore the charming old town with intricate carvings, the medieval town's historic temples, and its architecture.
- Spiritual visit to Namobuddha, a sacred Buddhist site.
- Experience rural village life in Balthali.
- Lush terraced fields and serene forested landscapes.
- Witness the confluence of the Roshi and Punyamati rivers.
- Capture the mesmerizing landscapes and mountain vistas.
This is our standard and recommended Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek Itinerary.
Your hiking guide will meet you at your hotel. You have breakfast before you drive to Sundarijal with the guide. It is an hour's drive. Sundarijal is the starting point of the Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek. Once you start your trek, it is all climb to reach the Chisopani. It is quite a tough climb on the first day. After a couple of hours' walk, you reach the village with a tea house where you have lunch and continue climbing through the forest to reach the top of Chisopani. After the top, the trail goes down for 20 minutes to reach the Chisopani village for an overnight stay.
- All grounded transport as per the program.
- One highly experienced hiking guide and a porter and their expenses.
- Three times meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with tea/coffee on hiking
- Accommodation during the hiking
- Necessary permits and entrance fees
- Government taxes
- Office service charges
- Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu
- All kind of cold drinks and alcoholic beverage in hiking
- Your personal nature expenses
- Tips to field staff