The Sundarijal to Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is one of the most rewarding short treks near Kathmandu Valley, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and Himalayan scenery. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this trek takes you through lush forests, traditional villages, and panoramic viewpoints, all while staying close to Nepal’s capital.
The journey begins at Sundarijal, located northeast of Kathmandu and serving as the gateway to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. After a short drive from the city, the trail ascends past water reservoirs, stone steps, and cascading waterfalls. As you enter the protected forest area, you are surrounded by dense rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, home to diverse birdlife and wildlife. The peaceful environment quickly makes you forget the bustle of Kathmandu.
After a steady uphill walk, you reach Chisapani (2,165 m), a charming hilltop village offering breathtaking views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even Everest on a clear day. Chisapani is an excellent place to experience local Tamang and Brahmin culture while enjoying a warm meal and mountain sunset. The overnight stay here allows trekkers to relax in a quiet, natural setting under star-filled skies.
On the next day, the trail gradually descends and then ascends through terraced fields, forests, and traditional settlements toward Nagarkot, one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. This section of the trek is relatively easy and scenic, making it suitable for beginners, families, and first-time trekkers. Along the way, you’ll encounter friendly locals, farm animals, and stunning countryside landscapes that reflect rural Nepal’s simple lifestyle.
Reaching Nagarkot (2,175 m) is the highlight of the trek. Known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views, Nagarkot offers sweeping panoramas of the Himalayan range, including Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar, and Everest on clear days. The golden glow of sunrise over the snow-capped peaks is a truly unforgettable experience.
This trek is often guided by experienced local professionals like Yan Prasad Timalsina (Hari), a knowledgeable and friendly trekking guide known for his deep understanding of the region, local culture, and natural environment. Hari’s experience ensures safe navigation, meaningful cultural interactions, and a relaxed trekking pace tailored to each group. His passion for guiding and commitment to guest satisfaction make the trek more informative and enjoyable.
The Sundarijal to Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is perfect for those seeking a short Himalayan adventure without long travel or extreme altitude. Combining natural beauty, cultural insight, and stunning mountain views, it remains one of the best short treks in Nepal.
Sundarijal to Chisapani Nagarkot trek is the shortest Hiking Trail available closer to Kathmandu Downtown which starts from Sundarijal and ends at Nagarkot.
This Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot trek is uniquely designed to provide the best feeling of nature, beautiful villages, terrace with seasonal crops like mustard and wheat and it offers magnificent mountain views.
Through Sundarijal we start trekking following dense forest, villages, terraces and again oak rhododendron forest. Interacting with local people away from the hubbub of city will add another experience. Early sunrise view at Nagarkot is the most fascinating and mesmerising view. The most popular walk leads down from Nagarkot along a ridge to the temple of Changu Narayan-with views of Sankhu village.
Best season: March-May, Oct-Nov (possible all year round)
Group size: Min. 1 Person
Itinerary
Day 1: Arriving in Kathmandu and check in Hotel.
Day 2: Drive to Sundarijal which takes approximately one hour and trek from Sunjdarijal to Chisapani and it takes about four and half hours. The unpaved road from Kathmandu turns into a trail near a small hydroelectric plant. The trail will enter through the Shivpuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve. The first settlement you will come across is Mulkharka with Tamang habitants. The route heads down the ridge through a forest of oaks and rhododendron to Chisopani (2300m.) Over night at Guest house.
Day 3: Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot which takes about six and half hours. In the morning you are attracted by the northern mountain views. Your trek starts to Chauki Bhanjag, which takes about 2 and half hours. You continue the charming trails leading you toward Nagarkot. Nagarkot, (2175m) is by far one of the most popular destination. In the clear weather the Himalaya range, stretching from Dhaulagiri in the west all the way past Everest to Kanchenjunga in the east, emerges from the darkness to greet the happy visitor with its awe inspiring majesty and beauty. Over night at Hotel.
Day 4: Trek from Nagarkot to Changunarayan which takes approximately three and half hours and drive from Changunarayan to Kathmandu and it takes about one and half hours. The most popular walk leads down from Nagarkot along a ridge to the temple of Changu Narayan-with views of Sankhu village to the right and Bhaktapur to the left. Changunarayan is situated at the end of a long ridge which runs well into the valley, it is said to have been built in 323 AD by King Hari Datta Varma. The temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings. It is said to be the oldest temple in the valley. After excursion in and around Changunarayan you board the vehicle to get back to Kathmandu.
Services included:
- Pick up & drop-off to/from Kathmandu Airport.
- Two nights Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (Hotel Lemon Tree) with breakfast
- Trekking Guide
- Necessary Porter (one porter in between two people)
- Trekking Entry permit
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner during trek
- Accommodation during the trek
- Road transportation
- Insurance for guide & porter that includes their emergency rescue
- First aid kits
Not included services:
- Tips for guide and porter
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Hotel for more than two nights in Kathmandu
- Alcohol and any drinks on trek (including bottled water)
- All expenses of a personal nature e.g. toilet paper, medicines, confectionery etc
- Nepal entry visa fee
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