Chisapani–Nagarkot Hike: A Gateway to Natural Beauty, Culture, and Serenity
The Chisapani to Nagarkot hiking route is one of the most accessible and scenic trails near Kathmandu. Ideal for those seeking a short escape into nature, this journey unfolds through peaceful Gurung settlements, forested ridgelines, and age-old temples. Set at 2,215 meters above sea level, Chisapani lies within the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, offering a tranquil retreat with glimpses of the majestic Himalayas in the distance.
Moving onward, the serene hill town of Nagarkot promises panoramic vistas that stretch from Manaslu to Langtang, and even the Ganesh Himal and Rolwaling ranges. The cool mountain air, the calm ambiance, and the warm hospitality of the locals make this spot a perfect getaway from the buzz of city life.
A cultural highlight of the hike is the revered Changunarayan Temple, considered the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal. Perched atop a hill, the temple is a gem of Shikhara and Pagoda-style architecture, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It houses Nepal’s earliest recorded inscriptions and a collection of ancient religious relics.
Your hike begins in Sundarijal, located on the northeastern edge of Kathmandu Valley. The trail leads you upward through dense forests and serene surroundings of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, passing through the charming hamlets of Mulkharka and Borlang Bhanjyang.
After a peaceful overnight stay in Chisapani, you’ll trek toward Nagarkot (2,175m), following a ridge-line trail that winds through quiet villages like Dhulabari and Jule. Reaching Kattike, perched just above Nagarkot, you’ll witness the expansive valleys unfold beneath you.
On the final day, wake up to a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. Then descend toward Changunarayan, where you can explore not only the sacred temple but also the adjacent museum and local crafts. From here, continue your journey into the historic town of Bhaktapur before heading back to Kathmandu.
At Adventure Aspirant, we provide well-organized hiking experiences led by certified local guides. With quality accommodation, seamless logistics, and personalized attention, we ensure your adventure is not only comfortable but also deeply rewarding.
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal and Trek to Chisapani (2,215m) | Drive: 1 hr | Hike: 3–4 hrs
Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Sundarijal, located on the northeastern rim of the Kathmandu Valley. This charming gateway marks the starting point of your hike. As the trail climbs gently through the lush forested hills, you’ll pass the cascading Syalmati Waterfall and continue ascending through the peaceful village of Mulkharka. The path meanders through traditional settlements like Harkatol and Gurungtol, offering glimpses into local life and culture. The route continues to climb steadily to Borlang Bhanjyang (2,472m), offering open views and forest serenity. The final leg of the day’s trek leads westward before arriving at Chisapani, a peaceful ridge-top village known for its cool climate and sweeping Himalayan views. Overnight in Chisapani.
Day 2: Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot (2,175m) | Hike: 4–5 hrs
Waking up to crisp mountain air, you begin the day's hike along gently undulating terrain with stunning views of the surrounding hills. The trail winds through quaint hamlets like Thulo Dhap and Sano Dhap, eventually bringing you to the quiet farming village of Dhulabari. After a rest, continue through the terraced landscapes of Jule and on to Jarsing Pauwa. The final stretch of the hike brings you to Kattike Bhanjyang, then onward to Kattie, a scenic hillside spot just above Nagarkot. A short descent takes you into Nagarkot, a popular hill station renowned for its panoramic Himalayan views and peaceful ambiance. Overnight at a local lodge in Nagarkot.
Day 3: Trek from Nagarkot to Changunarayan and Drive Back to Kathmandu | Hike: 2–3 hrs | Drive: 2 hrs
Start your day early to catch a stunning sunrise over the Himalayas. On clear days, you’ll witness peaks like Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Rolwaling, and even a distant glimpse of Mount Everest (8,848m). Your descent begins as you head down toward Lamadanda, winding through forest trails and quiet villages. The path follows the banks of the Ghatte Khola River, passing Lamagaon, and then ascends briefly past Nagarkot Hospital to Deurali Bhanjyang. From there, you follow the wooded trail bordering Tilkot Forest Reserve, continuing past Chhapdanda until you arrive at the ancient temple of Changunarayan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, rich in intricate woodwork and stone carvings. After some time to explore the temple and its surroundings, you’ll return by private vehicle to Kathmandu, marking the end of your memorable hiking experience. We at Adventure Aspirant hope your journey was as meaningful as it was scenic — and we look forward to welcoming you again on your next adventure.
The given cost are per person and exclude international flights. Given below are the departure dates available for online booking. If the given date is not favorable then please contact us and we will happily customize your trip on dates more appropriate for you.
Note: If your group size is of more than 1 pax then you can set your own departure date.
| Start Date | Trip Price | Discount | Discounted Price | Action |
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USD398pp
Duration : 03 Days
