Kathmandu Rim Hill Hiking is a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a few days and immerse yourself in the serenity of pristine nature and traditional hill villages. This hiking experience allows you to witness the authentic Nepalese culture and lifestyle, surrounded by stunning mountain views, vibrant sunrises, and lush forests filled with rhododendron, pine, magnolia, oak, and fir trees.
This easy yet rewarding hike begins just a short distance from Kathmandu, heading east from the valley rim. The journey starts at Sundarijal, known for its beautiful water sources, and ascends through a cool forested area to enter Shivapuri National Park.
Also known as the Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve, this park’s highest ridge reaches 2,523 meters. Entrance tickets are required, and once inside, hikers are treated to a peaceful walk through pristine woodlands, with panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the soothing sounds of a wide variety of bird species. The trail continues uphill, passing scattered Tamang villages—home to people of Tibetan Buddhist heritage known for their unique culture and traditions.
The first overnight stop is at Chisapani (2,195 meters), the highest point of the hike, which offers breathtaking sunrise views over the central Himalayan range. From there, the trail leads to Nagarkot, a popular hill station known for its spectacular vistas. Here, you’ll enjoy the comfort of cozy lodges or resorts, many with rooms that offer sweeping mountain views.
On the final day, the trek continues east along high ridges, through terraced farmlands, peaceful forests, and more traditional villages. Throughout the hike, the snow-capped peaks of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal Himal, and even the distant Everest range dominate the horizon.
The hike concludes at Dhulikhel, a charming 500-year-old Newari town renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Offering some of the best panoramic views of the Himalayas, Dhulikhel is also home to several excellent lodges and resorts. From here, a comfortable drive takes you back to Kathmandu, bringing this unforgettable journey to a close.
Best Time to Visit Kathmandu Rim Hill Hike
The ideal seasons for this trek are spring (March to June) and autumn (September to December), when the weather is sunny, the skies are clear, and the mountain views are at their best. If you prefer a quieter experience, winter (January and February) is also a great time to visit. Though colder, the trails are less crowded, offering a peaceful and memorable adventure in nature.
