Perched at an altitude of 2,175 m above sea level, Nagarkot is undeniably one of the most popular hill stations near Kathmandu. Famed for sunrise, sunset, and panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the top of the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 m) on clear days, the picturesque destination is located just 32 km away from the Kathmandu Valley.
Hiking early in the morning from Sankhu, Sundarijal, and Changunarayan is a favorite among both locals and tourists, taking you through lush forests, terraced farms, and charming villages. With several cozy hotels and resorts, perfect for capturing the interplay of light during the sunrise and sunset, Nagarkot is an ideal spot for relaxation and photography enthusiasts, making the effort worthwhile.
Things to Do in Nagarkot
- Wake up early in the morning to witness the stunning sunrise over the panoramic Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang.
- Explore the local villages of Gurung and Tamang and relish the cultural charm of the area while tasting the local delicacies.
- Discover the wide variety of birds, mammals, and other wildlife, including monals, deer, and foxes.
- Connect to the true natural spirit while you take a leisure hike on the Nagarkot View Tour with an exceptionally expansive view of the surrounding landscape.
- Involve in paragliding, ziplining, and mountain biking for more adventurous experiences, etc.
Full Details on the Nagarkot Day Hike - 1 Day.
At an altitude of 2,732 m, Shiva Puri is the highest point surrounding the Kathmandu Valley, with the longest trekking trail of 20 km/12 miles just 12 km north of the city. It is one of the most accessible hiking trails that typically takes place under the national park area, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna such as Himalayan black bears, leopards, Himalayan monal, sunbirds, Himalayan griffon vultures, and others.
The trail is through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine in serenity, making it a paradise for nature lovers, while the Nagi Gompa, a Buddhist monastery, adds much to the cultural and spiritual aspects on the way to the peak. The monastery facilities stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and the majestic snow-clad mountain ranges such as Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Mount Everest, providing an instant escape from the city’s chaos.
The peak is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude, traversing through a peaceful ambiance across several water streams and waterfalls serving as the main source of water for Kathmandu city. Therefore, a holiday to Shivapuri is a must-add to your bucket list for 2025 and 2026.
Things to Do
- Hike through the dense forest of oak, pine, and rhododendrons rich in biodiversity of the national park.
- Spot a wide range of wildlife and birds such as langurs, black bears, Himalayan monal, sunbirds, vultures, deer, and others on the way.
- Ascend up to Shivapuri Peak for panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the complete 360-degree sight of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Get ready to enjoy a peaceful picnic by the riverside, waterfalls, or in the forest surroundings along the trail.
- Visit sacred Bagdwar and Bishnudwar.
Full Details on the Shivapuri Trek - Days.
Champadevi Hill Station
Standing tall at an elevation of 2,278 m, Champa Devi, named after the resident goddess, is yet another popular hill station around the Kathmandu Valley, only a 7 km round trip from the city. Located to the south, it is the third-highest short Hill Station Destinations near Kathmandu and is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. The hill is famed for its spectacular view of the valley, including alluring mountain vistas of Mt. Everest, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, Langtang, and Gaurishankar in favorable weather.
Therefore, the hill station is one of the popular destinations for day hikes that usually begin from Pharping or Dakshinkali, entering deep into the forests of pine. The hike is comparatively short but presents you with a mix of steep ascents, just the right option for those looking forward to a half-day adventure.
Things to Do
- Hike to Champadevi through the lush green forest of pine, rhododendron, and oak starting from Pharping or Hattiban resort.
- Capture otherworldly sights like the Kathmandu Valley, Taudaha Lake, the Kirtipur area, and mountains like Gaurishankar, Langtang, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal.
- Visit Chamapdevi Temple and nearby Pharping Monastery, Dakshikali Temple, and others.
- Family picnic or simply unwind yourself in the fresh air of mother nature and majestic Himalayan peaks.
- Explore one of the best off-beaten paths, a paradise for bird watchers with potential encounters of flycatchers, Himalayan bulbuls, Eurasian jays, Asian barbets, and so on.
Phulchowki
At a distance of 20 km, Phulchowki is the highest hill surrounding the Kathmandu Valley at 2,782 m, best known for bird watching, hiking, and panoramic views of the Himalayas on a clear day. Lying at the southeastern rim of the Kathmandu Valley, as the name suggests, "Phulchowki," or “hills of flower," the trekking/hiking trails here are usually adorned with a variety of flowers, including the national flower of Nepal, the rhododendron, especially during the spring.
For those seeking a slightly more challenging hike near Kathmandu Valley, Phulchowki is the right destination, making way through the serene natural landscapes relatively untouched, far away from human settlements. Generally, the hike starts from Godwari, a botanical garden, and involves passing through dense forests with potential encounters with some of the beautiful avians, such as the elusive Spiny Babbler found only in Nepal and their chirps.
Things to Do
- Enjoy a vibrant display of fresh blooms of rhododendron during the spring season as you hike to the summit, offering spectacular sightings of the entire Kathmandu Valley and the eastern Himalayan ranges predominated by Annapurna and Gaurishankar.
- Experience the tranquility of the subtropical forest ecosystem and its wide range of flora and fauna, including birds like Himalayan monals, grey-headed woodpeckers, and many more.
- Take a scenic break at the botanical garden of Godawari at the base of Phulchowki Hill.
- Hike to Phulchowki Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Phulchowki Mai, for spiritual retreat and other purposes.
Kakani Hill Station
Kakani is a lovely hill station in the lap of Nuwakot at an altitude of 1,982 m above sea level. It is noted for sweeping views of the Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Annapurna ranges. It is only 29 km/25 miles northwest of Kathmandu city and is popular for its strawberry farms, scenic views of the surrounding area, and picnics worth a hike, cycling, or biking adventure.
The trail usually covers 8 to 10 km and traverses through scenic landscapes and the quaint houses of Kakani village, providing an insight into the daily life of Nepalese people. The walk is extraordinary through the tranquil forested area full of teeming wildlife, alluring natural beauty, and phenomenal sights of snow-capped mountain ranges.
Things to Do
- Explore the local culture of the Tamang community and their lifestyle, added much by their warm lifestyle.
- Visit the Thai Memorial Park built in honor of the victims of a Thai Airways plane crash in 1992.
- Take a pleasing stroll around the local strawberry farms, and Trout Farms, and taste rhododendron-flavoured liquor.
- Engage in paragliding or cycling for more adventurous intake.
- Marvel at the spectacular mountain vistas of Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, and even Rolwaling Peaks.
- Practice yoga, meditation, and mindfulness.
Chandragiri Hills
Lying 16 km southwest of Kathmandu, Chandragiri is one of the top hill stations near Kathmandu Valley, serving as one of the best destinations for a short holiday. It is one of the hot picks for family outings, pleasurable hikes, and easy escape to nature, offering an unobstructed 360-degree view of the Himalayas from Annapurna to Mt. Everest, appearing almost at an arm’s length away.
The hill is mostly known for its refreshing lush forests, diverse terrain with steep inclines, and easy accessibility from the city, featuring five-star resorts to budget accommodation along with multiple trails. You can choose from a shorter route of 3 hours to a longer route from Dakshikali spanning for 6 hours gradually ascending to the hill station through a forest path; hence, it is advisable to pack essential lunch or snack and drinking water.
Things to Do
- Thrilling Chandragiri Cable Car Ride.
- Witness awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan ranges like Mount Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal.
- Hike through the lush forest, promising a rejuvenating ambiance.
- Wake up early to catch the magical sunrise and visit Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple.
- Unwind around the Children’s Park and Play Area.
- Adrenaline-rushing Chandrgiri Zip Line.
- The full exploration of the historical museum.
- Shop local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and other unique souvenirs to take home, among others.
Nagarjuna Hills
Nagarjun Hill Station, at an elevation of about 2,128 m above sea level, is part of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and is amongst one of the Short Hill Station Destinations near Kathmandu, just 7 km to the northwest center of the city. Otherwise, also referred to as the Jamal Danda, the hiking trail to this hill begins from Fulbari Gate in Balaju and can be completed in 3 to 4 hours, which is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers with limited stays in Nepal.
The hiking trail is surrounded by lush greenery with ample opportunity to sightsee deer, various bird species, monkeys, and others, also features Nagarjuna Cave, named after Saint Nagarjuna, who is believed to have meditated in the caves here. From the cave about an hour's walk is a summit with a view tour offering mesmerizing views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayan ranges such as Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even the Annapurna range in the distance on clear days.
Things to Do
- Hike to Jamcho for unparalleled Himalayan views of peaks like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even the highest peak in the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 m) on a very clear weather day.
- Explore the Nagarjuna Cave to the fullest for spiritual rejuvenation.
- Wildlife and bird watching such as rufous sibia, spotted forktail, Himalayan bulbul, monkeys, stripped squirrels, and more.
- An eagle-eye view of the Kathmandu Valley was followed by a visit to White Gumba (Druk Amitabha Monastery).
- Enjoy picnicking with your friends, families, and colleagues amidst the tranquil nature, deep inside the forest region, etc.
Chisapani Hill Station
Chisapani, translating to “cold water,” is yet another popular hill station near Kathmandu city about 22 km, trekking via Sundarijal at the edge of Shivapuri National Park. Located to the north of the Kathmandu Valley, it sits at an elevation of 2,165 m and is best for short treks, nature walks, and Himalayan views.
Generally, the hike to Chisapani is combined with a visit to Nagarkot hill station and can be extended 2 to 3 days with around 8 to 11 hours of trekking distance. Often Chisapani is also the first stop on the longer treks, such as to the Helambu, part of Langtang-Gosaikunda Lake, and others offering comfortable stays and tranquillity before heading deeper into the mountains.
Therefore, it is the perfect destination for a short trekking getaway, providing striking landscapes, fresh mountain air, and a serene distance from chaotic city life, unveiling the heavenly sight of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Jugal Himal on a clear weather day.
Things to Do
- Observe the rich biodiversity of the Shivapuri National Park.
- Enjoy a serene trekking trail to Chisapani and later on to Nagarkot from Sundaijal after a short drive from Kathmandu.
- Grab extraordinary breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, such as Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, and parts of Annapurna and Everest peaks on clear days.
- Venture deep into the typical settlements of local Tamang communities.
- Look forward to bird watching and wildlife spotting such as Himalayan monal, woodpeckers, eagles, and others.
- Let yourself be free amidst the turquoise beauty of water streams, small waterfalls, and others along the way, and so on.
Why Choose Hill Stations Near Kathmandu?
The hill stations near Kathmandu are the perfect destination for a quick and rejuvenating escape, offering a seamless blend of natural beauty, authentic cultural experiences, and adventure without having to engage yourself in several days of trekking to the remote Himalayas of Nepal.
Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural exploration, relaxation, trekking, exploring local culture, or just a serene treat, these short holidays near Kathmandu hill stations cater to all. So pack your bags, tie your boots, and head to one of these charming destinations for all. The hills with stunning views, a welcoming atmosphere, and crisp mountain air await you with open arms, as do the Himalayas, such as Annapurna Base Camp, Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit, Upper Mustang, and so on.
