Response Time 3 Hours , Response Rate 100%
The Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek is a short and scenic trekking journey around the eastern hills of the Kathmandu Valley, ideal for travelers seeking nature, culture, and light adventure without high altitude challenges. The trek starts with a meeting in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive to Sundarijal at 1,460 meters, the gateway to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. From here, the trail climbs steadily through stone steps, water channels, and dense forest to reach the peaceful hill village of Chisopani at 2,165 meters. Over the following days, the route continues along ridge trails and countryside paths to Nagarkot at 2,175 meters and then descends to the historic city of Bhaktapur at 1,400 meters. After sightseeing in Bhaktapur, the journey ends with a comfortable drive back to Kathmandu and a warm Namaste.
This trek offers tranquil forest walks inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, authentic village life, and panoramic Himalayan views. From Chisopani and Nagarkot, clear days reveal Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa, with distant Everest region peaks visible in exceptional conditions. Sunrise and sunset views from Nagarkot are a major highlight, while the guided cultural exploration of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adds a rich historical experience to the journey.
The trek covers approximately twenty four to twenty six kilometers over three days. On Day 1, the walk from Sundarijal to Chisopani takes about four to five hours, covering seven to eight kilometers with an elevation gain from 1,460 meters to 2,165 meters. Day 2 involves five to six hours of walking over ten to eleven kilometers from Chisopani to Nagarkot, reaching around 2,175 meters with gentle ups and downs. On Day 3, the trail descends from Nagarkot to Bhaktapur over about seven kilometers, taking three to four hours, before continuing by vehicle back to Kathmandu.
The trail is well maintained and beginner friendly, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness. The first day includes gradual uphill walking on stone staircases and forest paths. The second day follows ridge lines, village trails, and terraced farmland with moderate ascents and descents. The final day is mostly downhill, passing through rural settlements and agricultural landscapes. No technical trekking skills are required.
One night is spent in Chisopani, staying at a local teahouse that offers a simple and authentic village experience with clean basic rooms and warm hospitality. In Nagarkot, the overnight stay is in a good standard hotel, providing greater comfort, scenic viewpoints, and excellent sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
Sundarijal serves as the trek starting point and the entrance to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Chisopani is a quiet hill village known for its cool climate and open valley views. Nagarkot is one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints, celebrated for wide Himalayan panoramas. Bhaktapur, the final highlight, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient temples, royal courtyards, pottery squares, and traditional Newari culture.
The trek begins with a meeting in Kathmandu and a drive to Sundarijal, where the hiking journey starts. After completing the final hike to Bhaktapur and enjoying guided sightseeing, the trip concludes with a comfortable drive back to Kathmandu. The journey ends with memorable experiences of nature and culture in Nepal, and a heartfelt Namaste.
Meet in Kathmandu and drive to Sundarijal at 1,460 meters, the entrance to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Begin the trek through forest trails, stone steps, and natural water channels with a gradual ascent. After 5-6 hours of walking over seven to eight kilometers, arrive at Chisopani at 2,165 meters. Enjoy the peaceful hill village atmosphere and stay overnight in a local teahouse.
After breakfast, continue trekking along forest ridges, village paths, and terraced farmland with gentle ups and downs. After 6-7 hours of walking covering ten to eleven kilometers, reach Nagarkot at 2,175 meters. Relax and enjoy wide Himalayan views and sunset scenery. Overnight in a good standard hotel.
Enjoy an early morning sunrise over the Himalayas. After breakfast, hike downhill through villages and farmland for three to four hours over about seven kilometers to reach Bhaktapur at 1,400 meters. Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before driving back to Kathmandu. End of trek with Namaste.
If you wish to add extra days, stay longer in Kathmandu, or include Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tours, we are happy to customize the itinerary for you. We can arrange multi day hikes, multi day cultural tours, and jungle safaris in Chitwan or Bardia National Park. Our services also include hotel bookings, white water rafting adventures, Everest mountain scenic flights, domestic flight ticketing, private vehicle rentals, and full travel support throughout Nepal.
Please contact us anytime, and we will be happy to assist in creating a personalized travel experience that matches your interests and schedule.
Ground transportation as per itinerary including Kathmandu to Sundarijal and Bhaktapur to Kathmandu.
Licensed English speaking trekking guide.
One night teahouse accommodation in Chisopani.
One night hotel accommodation in Nagarkot.
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry permit.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square entrance fee with guided visit.
Government taxes and service charges.
Basic first aid kit and trip support.
International flights and Nepal visa fee.
Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
Meals and drinks during the trek.
Personal expenses and optional activities.
Travel insurance and emergency evacuation.
Tips for guide and staff.
Response Time 3 Hours , Response Rate 100%
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