Kathmandu Valley Rim Trekking - 7 Days

Exploring the Hiking Trails of the Kathmandu Rim Valley Trek

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The Kathmandu Valley Rim Trekking is a 3–7 day gentle adventure around the hills encircling the capital. It’s the perfect short escape from city life—offering panoramic views of the Ganesh, Langtang, Annapurna, and even Everest ranges on clear days. The route passes through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, charming hilltop villages, and historic towns like Chisapani, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Namobuddha, Balthali, and Panauti.

Dhulikhel A scenic Newar town on the eastern rim of the valley, 1,550 m above sea level and just 30 km from Kathmandu. Famous for Himalayan views, traditional culture, and pure drinking water (thanks to German Technical Cooperation).

Namobuddha Home to Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, this sacred Buddhist site lies 40 km southeast of Kathmandu. According to legend, Prince Mahasatwo sacrificed himself to feed a starving tigress and her cubs here—earning the site deep spiritual reverence. Festivals like Kartik Purnima and Buddha Jayanti draw pilgrims year-round.

Balthali A tranquil village surrounded by terraced fields, lush forests, and mountain views of Dorjee Lhakpa and Langtang. It’s ideal for cultural encounters with Tamang and Newar communities, along with peaceful nature walks.

Panauti An ancient Newari town at the confluence of the Rosi and Punyamati rivers, believed to be a sacred Triveni. Noted for medieval temples, rich traditions, and the Panauti Community Homestay—a women-led initiative now part of Nepal’s Community Homestay Network, empowering rural tourism.

Mountain Miracle Treks & Expedition invites you to experience one of the most popular short trekking routes for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike. This itinerary combines the Chisapani–Nagarkot hike with visits to Dhulikhel, Namobuddha, Balthali, and Panauti, providing a diverse mix of landscapes, wildlife, and heritage sites.

Trip Highlights

Enjoy a refreshing trek along the rolling hills around Kathmandu, escaping the city’s bustle.
Walk through Shivapuri National Park’s lush forests, spot wildlife, and visit cascading waterfalls.
Ascend to Chisapani for panoramic valley views and camp under the stars.
Continue through alpine forests and villages to Nagarkot for a magical Himalayan sunrise.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Changunarayan Temple and explore its ancient architecture.
Discover Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, vibrant local festivals, and Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Relax among terraced fields, engage with Tamang and Newar traditions.
And experience authentic hospitality through Panauti’s women-led community homestay.

Outline Itinerary:

Detail Itinerary Short Itinerary

Day 01:Drive to Sundarijal and trek to Chisopani (2,135m) overnight in chisopani.

Drive an hour from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, the gateway to the Helambu trail. Hike through lush forests, charming villages, and chirping birdlife, reaching the highest point at 2,135m before descending to Chisapani (2,281 m). Enjoy stunning views of the Langtang, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Jugal ranges, with an overnight stay in this peaceful hilltop village.

Day 02:Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot ( 2,175m) via Chule/Jaharsing pauwa overnight in Nagarkot.

Start the day at 5:30 AM to witness a stunning sunrise over Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shankar, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himalayan ranges, Manaslu, and more. After breakfast, trek for about 7 hours through the tranquil forests of Shivapuri Buffer Zone National Park, with a lunch stop in Chule. after we continue another 2-3 hours to Nagarkot (2,175 m), a scenic hilltop known for its luxury hotels and panoramic Himalayan views.

Day 03:Trek from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel ( 1,550m) overnight in Dhulikhel.

On this day, we will hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel, which will take approximately 6-7 hours. The trail is fabulous, offering a peaceful route where you can see and hear various types of birds, along with picturesque mountain views, terraces, and agricultural landscapes. This hike can be done at any time of the year. Those who are physically fit and genuinely interested can gain an incredible hiking experience in Nepal. Trekkers of all ages, including children over 10 accompanied by an adult, as well as elders, will find this trek enjoyable before embarking on higher-altitude treks in Nepal.

Day 04:Trek from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha (1,750m) overnight in Namobuddha.

Dhulikhel is located at an altitude of 1,550 meters and lies along the Araniko Highway. The hike from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha begins at the Kali Temple, where you can take a moment to explore the area before climbing the steps to the top. From there, the trail descends through the local community, allowing you to reach Kavre Bhanjang in about half an hour. The path then ascends again toward Namobuddha, which takes approximately two hours.

Once you reach Namobuddha, you will be greeted by a peaceful environment, home to the Tashi Yangtse Monastery, one of the most famous and holiest Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal. In the evening, you can explore the Namo Buddha Monastery and participate in the Puja (worship) ceremony with the monks. After the Puja, you will enjoy dinner with the monks and spend the night at the monastery's guesthouse.

Day 05:Trek from Namouddha to Balthali village (1,730m) overnight in Balthali.

The hike from Namo Buddha to Balthali is a popular trek near Kathmandu, Nepal, renowned for its stunning natural scenery, cultural experiences, and spiritual significance. The route features a mix of hills and river valleys, making it feel like a true trekking adventure. While it was one of the more challenging days on our Kathmandu Valley trek, it also felt the most rewarding. The views along the trail are beautiful, and the paths are remote, passing through numerous small villages that specialize in orange farming. You'll encounter charming trails that wind through valleys, along rivers, and across bridges. Balthali is particularly famous for its agriculture, with extensive flat lands ideal for potato farming located near the Kathmandu Valley. This trek could easily become one of your favorite day trips during your journey.

Day 06:Trek from Balthali to Panauti Bazaar (1,437m) overnight at homestay.

The trail is excellent, and you don't have to stick to the roadway. Instead, you can take the old trekking path that leads through the villages. While the hike from Balthali to Panauti isn't my favorite, it offers a beautiful start in an off-the-beaten-path town and concludes in a culturally rich town, making the overall experience worthwhile. This trek is possible year-round, but it's particularly stunning in March and April when the landscape is lush and filled with growing vegetables. We always recommend alternative routes rather than taking the main road between Khopasi and Panauti.
Panauti is a beautiful town steeped in history and culture and is well-known as a community-driven city, with the local homestay village tours providing a unique opportunity to learn about Nepali culture, especially the national dish, Dal Bhat. Panauti, Nepal, is one of my favorite cities in the country, making it worth a visit. Panauti is home to over 25,000 people and is full of beautiful temples, monuments, culture, and natural scenery.

Day 07:Drive back from Panauti to Kathmandu (1,365m) overnight in Kathmandu.

Panauti is located about 32 km (20 miles) southeast of Kathmandu, making it just a 1.5-hour drive from the city.

Trip Photos

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Cost Includes

The airport picks up and drops off by private vehicle for your Arrival and departure.
We provide ground transportation with a car, van, jeep, coaster, or Sutlej, depending on the group size.
Accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis on the BB plan.
Accommodation and meals will be provided during the entire hiking period.
Experienced, friendly, and helpful trek/tour guide for your holiday in Nepal.
City sightseeing in Kathmandu and a tour outside the valley, including an itinerary and a guide.
Necessary documentation work and Entrance fee as we needed to provide during your Hiking.
A farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a traditional Nepali cultural restaurant after finishing the tour.
All government Taxes, VAT, and company service charges.

Cost Excludes

All alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, and dessert items are excluded.
Entrance fees for monuments and temples during your city tour.
Expenses for personal items and meals while you are in urban areas like Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Personal trek/ tour gear (equipment) is not included.
Tipping for a guide, porters, and driver is expected.
Any additional expenses that are not specified in the included section.

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