The Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is a short and scenic Himalayan adventure near Kathmandu, perfect for travellers who want to experience Nepal’s natural beauty, mountain landscapes, local villages, and cultural heritage without committing to a long or strenuous trek. This 3-day trek near Kathmandu takes you through lush forests, traditional settlements, terraced farmland, peaceful countryside, and beautiful hilltops, with spectacular views of the Himalayan range on clear days. The trek begins at Sundarijal, around an hour's drive from Kathmandu. From here, the trail gradually climbs through the beautiful forests of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, following streams and natural springs before passing through traditional villages and reaching the scenic hill settlement of Chisapani. The area is known for its peaceful surroundings and panoramic mountain views. On a clear day, you can enjoy impressive views of peaks in the Langtang and central Himalayan ranges. After spending the night in Chisapani, the trail continues toward Nagarkot, one of Nepal’s most popular hill stations. The route takes you through peaceful forests, rural villages, terraced fields, and rolling hills, offering a wonderful opportunity to observe the traditional lifestyle of local communities. Along the way, you can enjoy views of several Himalayan peaks, including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and other surrounding mountains. Please note that parts of the Chisapani–Nagarkot route follow road sections, so the walking experience is a combination of natural trails and rural roads. If you prefer to reduce the walking distance, a private vehicle option can also be arranged for part of the journey, making the itinerary more flexible and comfortable according to your preferences.

Upon reaching Nagarkot, situated at approximately 2,175 meters, you can relax and enjoy the peaceful hilltop surroundings. Nagarkot is renowned for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas. If the weather is clear, the changing colors of the sky over the mountain range create a truly memorable experience. Waking up early to watch the first sunlight touch the mountain peaks is one of the highlights of this short trek. The following morning, after enjoying the sunrise and breakfast, you will continue hiking from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan. The approximately 3–4-hour trail passes through peaceful countryside, small villages, forests, and farmland before reaching the historic Changu Narayan Temple. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Changu Narayan is one of the oldest temples in the Kathmandu Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a wonderful place to experience Nepal’s ancient art, architecture, culture, and religious traditions. After exploring Changu Narayan, you will drive back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your Chisapani Nagarkot Trek.

Best Time to Trek

The Chisapani–Nagarkot Trek is generally possible throughout the year, making it a convenient short hike near Kathmandu. However, we recommend avoiding the monsoon season (June to August). During this period, the forest trails can become wet, muddy, and slippery, and leeches are commonly found along the route. Apart from the monsoon, every season offers a different and enjoyable experience, with clearer mountain views generally found during the autumn and spring months.

Accommodation & Trail Condition

Chisapani and Nagarkot are easily accessible from Kathmandu, you can find a range of basic to standard hotels and lodges. Accommodation can be arranged according to your preference and budget, with comfortable options available for a short stay. The trail from Sundarijal to Chisapani is the most natural and scenic section of the hike, passing through lush forests, streams, stone steps, and peaceful trails inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. From Chisapani to Nagarkot, the route becomes a mixture of natural trails, village paths, and regular rural road sections. As several parts follow road tracks, travelers who prefer less walking can also choose a private vehicle option for this section.