Chisapani Nagarkot Trek - 3 days

193 reviews in TripAdvisor

25 reviews in Google Reviews

Recommended by 99% of travelers

Duration3 Days

Trip GradeEasy

Maximum Altitude2195 meters - Nagarkot

ActivitiesTrekking

Group SizeAny

StartsKathmandu

EndsKathmandu

Best TimeSpring, Autumn and Winter

Are you short on time, but still want to gaze over the panorama of the Himalayan Range, with an exploration of the rich tapestry culture of the highlands of diverse ethnic groups? Then this trek to Chisapani Nagarkot fits perfectly for you, which demonstrates the unparalleled sunrise view over eight iconic mountains and passes through the home of diverse wildlife, villages, thriving fauna, and landscapes within Shivapuri National Park. Leave behind the crowded, busy, and scheduled life and feel the tranquility of nature on this short yet rewarding journey with us.

Detailed Overview:

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is one of the shortest treks in Nepal, which is easily accessible as it is just a 12 km, 1-hour drive from Kathmandu to reach Sundarijal - the starting point of this trek, and gets completed within just 3 days. This Chisapani Nagarkot Hike is suitable for all age groups and categorized as beginner-friendly, opening the gateway to all hikers without demanding prior experience, a long duration holiday, or age limitations, and thousands of bucks - an ideal gateway with family, friends, or solo who want to introduce themselves in the world of himalayas.

There is a famous quote that goes, "It's not the duration of the adventure that makes it memorable, but the experiences you gain and the views you soak in, and this 3-day Chisapani Nagarkot Trek matches this phrase perfectly. Even though it is short, you will meander through the verdant forest, river streams, waterfalls, villages of Shivapuri National Park, befriending the wide range of Himalayan flora with over 300 varieties, and get an insight into rare mammals such as Wild Boar, Leopard, Jungle Cat, Barking Deer, elusive red panda, if luck favors you as this trek travereses through this territory, from start to the very end.

This trek to Chisapani Nagarkot begins with a drive to Sundarijal, and takes 4-5 hours of hiking toward Chisapani (2215 meters), which means cold water in Nepali terms, named for its cool temperature and chill natural springs offering the mild humidity to hike along enjoying nature without being mentally drained out and sweaty. While settling in Chisapani, you can interact with locals and thrive with the culture of the Gurung and Tamang communities, with the surrounding views of landscapes and mountains - sounds like bliss, right?

On the second day, the trek navigates toward Nagarkot - one of the best vantage points of Nepal that shows the 360 panorama views of several iconic peaks such as Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, and many other surrounding Himalaya Range. Waking up early in the morning, the sunrise view seems surreal to gaze at, touching the tip with its golden hues.

Descending from here, on the 3rd day after immersing in the diverse mountains, at Nagarkot View Point (2195 meters), and after paying a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Changunarayan Temple, touching another major district of Bhaktapur, this trek ends with a fascinating drive back to Kathmandu valley.

Trip Highlights

Drive to Sundarijal, gazing over the transformation of a bustling, busy town to the tranquility of terraced fields en route
Walk along the "Shivapuri National Park", befriending a wide range of biodiversity and blooming flowers
Ascend to Chisapani hill point and explore the rich tapestry of culture
Witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset, and spectacular views from Nagarkot (2195 meters)
Explore local style, agricultural farms, and the culture of Gurung, Tamang, and Magar indigenous communities
Pay a visit to the Changunarayan Temple and witness the pagoda-style architecture, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Top Attractions of the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

There is no doubt that many hikes are discovered, especially near Kathmandu valley, as it is easily accessible for those who do not have a long holiday, and don't want to go through ample preparation, then this 3-day Chisapani Nagarkot Trek fits perfectly for you. Also, you might wonder why I specifically chose this trailhead, and why this trek stands out among other short hikes near the Kathmandu valley. Here are the top 5 reasons to enlist in this trek to Chisapani and Nagarkot for 2025 and 2026, to one to your bucket list:

Tranquility around Shivapuri National Park

Any hike you usually venture out on is to feel the serenity at its finest, and thrive in nature, far from the busy, your scheduled life; otherwise, we would rather be dining at a fine dining restaurant or clicking aesthetic pictures at the bars, cafes, and luxury restaurants. Just imagine trailing along the less traveled pathway with no traffic noise and only the chirping sound of birds in the forested area, and Himalayan fauna, well! This Chisapani Nagarkot Hike is everything you are looking for, especially when you are an enthusiastic hiker.

Right from the start, you will pass by the youngest national park of Nepal - Nagarjun Shivapuri National Park, which stretches to 159 km, and is home to over 300 bird species, 480 fauna, and rare mammals, dear folks, your time to connect with nature and gaze over such pristine himalayan flora and fauna. Traversing the forested section, small river streams, cascading waterfalls, and small villages in between, which widely open up to the huge landscape at the hill point that shows the Kathmandu valley beneath, and also the blooming rhododendrons, pines, thrive in the alley, is something to cherish forever!

Chisapani: Hilltop village at 2200 meters, where Beauty meets Rich Culture

Located at 2215 elevation, at such a hill point within Shivapuri National Park, Chisapani village serves as a home to many indigenous tamang people surrounded by dense forest, agricultural farms, and waterfalls, known for the best viewpoint to showcase the panorama 360 degree of several mountain views such as Langtang, holy Gaurisankar, Ganesh Himal, Makalu, that stretches to the Kanchenjunga (3rd highest mountain in the world) and Everest.

Besides, that being settled on just the first day of the hike, you will get to gaze over the Tamang lifestyle, culture, and warm hospitality, even thrive with cultural dances and festivals if your time collides with festive events such as Tamang Lhosar, Sonam Lhosar, and Dashain. To enrich the trip, you can even try their local delicacies such as Dhido (millet traditional dish), and also local chickens and trout fish en route. Reaching the hill point of Chisapani, the majestic panorama Himalayan Range surrounds you, and at the same time, the boasting hospitality and culture of the Tamang will surely smile at you and melt your heart!

Nagarkot View Point: Experience the Panorama of Iconic Peaks

Situated at 2195 meters, near Kathmandu's bustling city, Nagarkot viewpoint is one of the iconic vantage points that offers the best panorama of the legendary peaks. It is so iconic that it offers a 360-degree view of the 8 Himalaya Range out of 13 in Nepal, standing as the no.1 hill point, that rewards you with the impeccable sunrise and sunset view of the Himalayas from Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri massif, Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa and even stretches to the legendary Everest and Kanchenjunga that seem like straight out of museums and paintings. Apart from that, you will be awestruck to know that Nagarkot used to be an ancient fort and later became a gateway to royal families; however, in recent days, many luxury commodities, A-rated hotels and Cafes are built here, opening the gateway to all the individuals without any strenous long hike, that is why a trek to Nagarkot is enlisted in everyone's bucket list in Nepal.

Changunarayan Temple: An Insight and Visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site

This Chisapani Nagarkot Trek- stopping point is the Changunarayan Temple, where the walking trail ends, but a cultural immersion of the ancient temple begins, yes, you heard it right! Known as the oldest Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, said to be built 1700 years ago, this Changunarayan is listed as one of the world's heritage sites listed in UNESCO., Located in the Bhaktapur District, it is famous for its pagoda style architecture, woods, metal carvings featuring many ancient sculpture, making it as one of the must visit places in Nepal that demonstrates the traditional style of 5th and 12th centuries. On the last day, you will pay a visit to this Hindu temple, and also get an opportunity to gaze over the ancient style buildings, local cuisines, and fascinating pottery making while meandering around this area - a perfect way to conclude our 3-day hike to Chisapani and Nagarkot.

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026

This 3-day Chisapani Nagarkot Hike costs start from USD 150 and go up to USD 250, fully depending on how many hikers each group carries. If your team consists of more than 13 hikers, then the pricing will be half of the total cost. However, our standard price is USD 250, covering all the entry fees, permits, lodging facilities, private vehicle transportation, meals, and 1 experienced trekking guide, all in all required for this hike to Chisapani and Nagarkot. To make it quite easier for you to understand, here is the outline of the cost depending on the number. of hikers for 2025 and 2026:

No. of hikers	Standard Price
1-1	USD 250
2-3	USD 199
4-6	USD 175
7-13	USD 150

Extend the Chisapani Nagarkot Hike with other popular treks

As it is said, it is never enough to explore the great Himalayas, no matter how many days, months, or years you go for, especially when you are an adventure seeker, right? If this Chisapani Nagarkot Trek sounds too short, as it gets completed just within 3 days, then you can elongate it by adding just 4-6 days, as this trailhead of Shivapuri National Park serves as the trailhead to many other iconic destinations in Nepal, such as Langtang valley,Gosaikunda Lake, and even Tamang Heritage Trail by taking 2-3 hours of transportation to Sybrubesi from Kathmandu or Bhaktapur- the ending point of this trek to Nagarkot. As it is just a few kilometers drive, away from Kathmandu, you won't feel the hassle of the long duration expedition, and it also doesn't require any long drive to reach the starting point.

Besides, if you are looking forward to doing longer exploration going out of the bustling city area of Kathmandu but don't want to feel the hassle of booking flight tickets, after completing the 3-day Chisapani Nagarkot Hike, as then you can go for Annapurna region treks as it offers wide range of beginner friendly expedition as well such as Poon Hill Trek (4 days),Mardi Himal Trek (5 days) or even Annapurna Base Camp, either way this extended trek will make you fall with the land of Himalayas more. For more queries, you can WhatsApp, call, or Viber us at +977 9851016814 or just email at info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com anytime, we look forward to guide you every span of the year, to any corners of Nepal ensuring safety at the same time, with best exploration of trailhead, with experienced trekking guide being medically equipped.

Itinerary

Trip PlanExpand all

Day 01:

Drive to Sundarijal from Kathmandu, then Trek to Chisapani (2180 m, 4-5 hours hike)

Early in the morning, the tour guide will come to pick you up at around 7:00 AM, soon after having breakfast, we’ll take a drive to Sundarijal, via private vehicle through the agricultural farm, several villages, where a glimpse of locals engaging in farming can be seen. Covering a distance of approximately 15 km in 2 hours, we’ll reach Sundarijal - our starting point of the hike.

Taking an uphill walk soon after entering the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, where we will get our permits checked at the checking post, we will walk along the dense forested area through pines and oak forests by passing several river streams, cascading waterfalls, along the chirping sound of birds, reminding us that we are far away from the city area. Upon reaching Mulkharka, we’ll take a short lunch break, just to let you know that this name is given by the significance that Mul means Main and Kharka means grazing, indicating the historical route with a wide population of the Tamang community.

Soon after, navigating by the stone steps, woodlands, and villages of Tamang and Magar, we will reach Chisapani- our destination for today. Attaining at Chisapani viewpoint, several Himalayan ranges from Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang, along with the Annapurna Range, surround you thoroughly!

Max Altitude: 2180 meters Meals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Mountain LodgeDuration: 4-5 hours

Day 02:

Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot (2164 m, 6-7 hours)

Today, the trail takes us more a deeper exploration of Shivapuri National Park as we’ll hike towards Nagarkot following the denser forested area, gazing over Himalayan wildlife if luck favors us, such as barking deer, ghoral, Himalayan serow, if not that, then we will catch a glimpse of rhesus monkey playing back on forth trees to trees, as soon after we leave the woodland, the wide panorama of Kathmandu valley opens up slowly underneath en route.

In between, we will take some rest in a highlighted spot from where a breathtaking vista can be worth taking a look at, and also have our lunch at Chauki Bhanjyang or Jaharsingh Pauwa, which takes us to Nagarkot after a short 2 hours of hiking. Till 2 PM, we’ll arrive at Nagarkot so we can enjoy the stunning sunset view that touches the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri range, and Kanchenjunga, which seem stunningly captivating from the hill point of Nagarkot, where we will be staying tonight.

Max Altitude: 2164 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 19 km

Day 03:

Trek from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan (1620 m), then drive back to Kathmandu (1360 m, 5 hours hike, 2 hours Drive)

The morning starts with the best sunrise view, touching almost 15 iconic peaks, such as Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal that stretches to even Everest demonstrating the beauty of the Himalayas, the mountains seem like it is joking with you in a good way, as if its dawning and rising with some fogginess and cloudy mist, but that way the snowy frosty peaks seem even more fascinating.

Gazing over the peaks, having a delicious breakfast, the last final hike today begins towards Changu Narayan Temple, listed as one of the world heritage sites, with a descent through agricultural farms, forested woodlands, and traditional Nepali hamlets, and some crusty, enchanting hillside sections.

Changu Narayan stands out to be the oldest temple of Nepal that is engraved with the traditional pagoda style, with wood carved along the ancient sculptures that seem like Nadu ancient era, or you can say the old Nepalese era. After paying a visit to this Hindu Lord Vishnu Temple, we will take a drive back to Kathmandu, where you will be transferred to your hotel, concluding our Chisapani Nagarkot Hike.

Max Altitude: 1360 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5 hours hike, 2 hours drive

Cost Details

Includes

Private vehicle transportation from Kathmandu to Sundarijal and Changunarayan Temple to Kathmandu via private vehicle
Experienced English Speaking Licensed Holder
Nagarjun Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Entry Fee and Changunarayan Entry Fee
2 Nights accommodation (Chisapani and Nagarkot)
Foods throughout the trip - Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Salary and allowance for the guide
All government Taxes, and VAT

Excludes

Personal Expenses (Acoholic Beverages and non alcoholic beverages)
Tips for guide and porter (it is expected)

Essential Information

Best Time for Chisapani Nagarkot Hike

This Chisapani Nagarkot Hike is an all-year-round trek that can be done in any span of the year; however, to experience it in the best way, the ideal seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), and there are several reasons attached to it. Firstly, the temperature during this period only ranges from 6 to 12 degrees Celsius, which means you can hike along the trail and take an uphill walk without being all drained out due to high sunny days and being sweaty. The weather is chill, with moderate humidity and less chance or you can almost zero chance of heavy rainfall, making the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park area easy to hike through, enjoying the crisp of adventure.

Secondly, at these particular peak seasons, due to no precipitation, the best panoramic view of the mountain can be seen in many particular spots, and especially, you won't miss out the sunrise and sunset view of the Himalayan range from Nagarkot Hill Point. After all, this trek is all about immersing in the snowy, frosty peaks and also getting an insight into villages without being disturbed by the fog and cloud mist.

Lastly, as both of the seasons fall under harvesting and planting crops, you can gaze over agricultural farms where locals are engaging in agricultural activities, apart from that, as Autumn falls under the main festive aroma of the Himalayas, you can experience how Dashain and Tihar - the main festivals are celebrated in Nepal especially at villages. The perfect blend of temperature, climatic conditions, and thriving cultural experiences with the unhindered view of the landscape and mountains, Spring and Autumn stand out to be the favourable times to hike Chisapani Nagarkot.

Meanwhile, while we only mentioned the peak seasons, you can venture out at this Chisapani Nagarkot Trek in winter and monsoon as well, but make sure to track the weather forecast, even if it's a short expedition, as the trail become completely slippery to hike along mainly at forested area however that won't be much problem for experienced hikers. However, you might not catch the sunrise view due to the morning fogginess at Chispani and Nagarkot that usually happens during the monsoon. Nonetheless, if the weather fits, then you can embark on this trek at any time of the year.

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek Difficulty

This trek to Chisapani Nagarkot is a beginner-friendly expedition that suits all levels of hikers without demanding any prior experience and ample preparations, making it easily accessible as it is just located 31 km away from Kathmandu (the capital city). This 3-day Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking demands 4-5 hours of hiking only, through some well-maintained sections, a forested trail, and several ascents and downhill walks; hence, a basic level of physical fitness is required.

Unlike any other restricted trail, it doesn't require any special permit, hence making it an easily feasible short hike near Kathmandu valley. Hence, you can venture out on this trek without any mentally daunting situations and physical preparation beforehand. The most challenging section of this trailhead is the ascent to Nagarkot, which consists of a rocky, rugged, and narrow pathway; other than that, this trek is smooth to complete.

What is the risk of Altitude Sickness, and Preventive Guidelines to avoid it?

The highest elevation point this Chisapani Nagarkot Trek reaches is at 2175 meters, so the risk of altitude sickness is a rare case, even though you are a newbie, but yes, there are some preventive guidelines that you must follow to avoid AMS (rarely happens) and also for safety purposes:

Make sure to take a gradual ascent, especially at forested sections and steep lines, as it might be slippery due to loose gravel or mud (happens in monsoon).
Walk, do not run, maintaining your pace, as it might cause a rapid heartbeat, and a severe headache, even though it's not a high elevation trek, you will feel the thinning air as you ascend higher, so do not panic! Just walk along the guide and follow his footsteps, as there are many dense forests, so you might get lost.
Maintain your hydration level by drinking water each day, by at least 2-3 liters of water for a full 3 days. If that sounds too much, then just consume foods that consist of soups, or any fresh fruits available in the lodges.
If you are a newbie who has never had any hiking experience before, just make sure to engage in some sort of physical prep or basic stretching, as there are several uphill walks. You do not need to go over the moon for the preparation, just engage in some cardio such as running, walking down streets, or you can just go up and down stairs, completing 4000-5000 steps.
If you feel mild symptoms while ascending higher, such as regular headaches, a bit of tiredness, or dehydration, there is nothing to worry about; however, if the symptoms are beyond normal, like feeling dizzy, out of control, vomiting, then, inform the guide immediately (if in case).

Meals and Accommodation during Chisapani Nagarkot Hike

Throughout this trek, you will be provided with the best lodging facilities available along the trail; however, it is highly requested not to expect the accommodations to be luxurious, as they are located in the middle of the hill point and forested section. The lodges/tea houses are well maintained and cozy enough to settle in after a long hike, and the rooms are comfortable, having all the basic facilities such as attached washroom, showers, and laundry facilities (must pay extra for laundry), WIFI, and dining, all in all equipped with comfortable services.

During this hike to Chisapani Nagarkot, 3 nights and 2 days accommodation are included, 1 night in Chisapani (Mountain Lodge) and another in Nagarkot, (standard level hotel), however, if you want to opt for luxury staycation in Nagarkot - Hotel Mystic Mountain with jacuzzi, swimming pool, that is available as well but you must extra. Other than that, the lodges are of standard quality, with taken care of hygiene and comfort at their finest.

Regarding the meal, this Chisapani Nagarkot Trek route caters to the taste of everyone, from local cuisines, Asian, western, American, and continental to luxury food options, you will get everything on the menu provided to you. Along the trailhead, you will be provided 3 standard meals- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian, and even vegan options.

Are there any permits required for the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek?

There are no special restricted permits necessary for the Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking, however, there are certain points where you must pay an entry fee, such as to enter the Nagarjun Shivapuri National Park, and also to get into Changu Narayan Temple - the last of this 3-day hike to Chisapani and Nagarkot.

After being less physically demanding, this simple accessibility makes the short hike in the Kathmandu valley a hassle-free journey. It is not as expensive, but yes, you do require this permit to enter the protected area of Shivapuri National Park, which costs around NPR 600 (USD 5/-) that goes directly to preserve the wildlife and topography within this territory and also tracks the well being, by registering the IN Date and OUT Date, hence it must be attained. Besides, another permit, the TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System Card), is mandatory to do this trek.

How to book Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking?

To make your bookings secure with us, the payment is as easy as it sounds. If you are not in Kathmandu or Nepal yet, then you can simply book the trip online and make the payment from the website. You must make 10% of the booking for confirmation. Then, after you reach here, you can make the payment via cash, credit card, or any other mode of payment. After we receive the notification, we will send the confirmation of your Chisapani Nagarkot Hike, and then the booking is securely made, and you are just 1 step closer to this adventurous journey. If you have any queries, simply contact us anytime.

Need Help? Talk to Expert!

Min Gurung

+977 9851016814