Kathmandu is not just the cultural and historical hub of Nepal; it is also surrounded by green hills, charming villages, and Himalayan viewpoints that make it a paradise for hikers. If you want to experience nature, culture, and adventure within a short distance of the city, Kathmandu offers plenty of exciting hiking options.
At Adventure Friendship, we bring people together through memorable outdoor journeys where the joy of adventure is shared. With us, every step echoes our motto:
✨ “Adventure Together, Friendship Forever.” ✨
Here’s our handpicked list of the best hiking from Kathmandu:
Nagarkot is one of the most popular hiking destinations near Kathmandu, renowned for its magical sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas. The hike takes you through terraced fields, small villages, and lush landscapes, ending at a viewpoint that showcases peaks like Everest, Langtang, and Gauri Shankar on clear days.
Located in Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, this hike is perfect for nature enthusiasts. The trail passes through dense forests, waterfalls, and Buddhist monasteries, eventually rewarding you with sweeping views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges.
South of Kathmandu lies Champadevi, a peaceful hilltop that combines nature and spirituality. The hike is moderately challenging, leading you through pine forests to a summit marked by a Buddhist stupa and Hindu shrines, with panoramic views of the valley and the Himalayas.
Phulchowki, the highest hill around Kathmandu (2,782m), is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The trail is rich in biodiversity, and during winter, hikers are often greeted with snow, making it a magical experience. From the top, you get stunning views of the valley and distant peaks.
Starting from Sundarijal, this hike takes you through the refreshing forests and waterfalls of Shivapuri National Park. Passing traditional Tamang villages, you arrive at Chisapani, which offers some of the most breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
Just 29 km from Kathmandu, Kakani is a peaceful hill station surrounded by natural beauty. The hike is relatively easy and rewards you with sweeping views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and even parts of the Annapurna range. Kakani is also famous for its strawberry farms and local delicacies.
Dhulikhel is a cultural and scenic destination east of Kathmandu. The hike offers a chance to explore authentic Newari traditions, historic temples, and traditional lifestyle while enjoying panoramic Himalayan vistas stretching from Langtang to Everest.
For those seeking spirituality along with adventure, Namo Buddha is an ideal choice. This sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site is associated with the legendary story of Lord Buddha’s compassion. The hike is peaceful, with beautiful landscapes and a chance to visit one of Nepal’s most serene monasteries.
