Chisapani Nagarkot Trek – The Best 2 Nights 3 Days Short Himalayan Escape from Kathmandu

Nepal is globally known for its high Himalayan adventures, but not every traveler has the time or desire to go on a long and challenging expedition. If you are looking for a short, scenic, culturally rich, and beginner-friendly trekking experience near Kathmandu, then the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is the perfect choice.

At Adventure Walkways, we proudly recommend this trek for travelers who want a peaceful weekend getaway, a short nature retreat, or a warm-up trek before attempting bigger Himalayan adventures.

This 2 Nights 3 Days trek offers:

• Breathtaking Himalayan views including Mount Everest, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and even Manaslu

• Forest hiking inside Shivapuri National Park

• Stunning sunrise from Nagarkot

• Cultural experience in Tamang and Newari villages

• Visit to the ancient Changu Narayan Temple

• Peaceful, less crowded trekking trails

Let us guide you through everything you need to know about the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek.

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek Overview

The Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is an easy to moderate level trek located just north-east of Kathmandu. It begins from Sundarijal and passes through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park before reaching Chisapani and then Nagarkot.

This trek is ideal for:

• Travelers with limited time

• Families

• First-time trekkers

• Nature lovers

• Bird watchers

• Weekend hikers

• Domestic Nepali travelers looking for a short holiday

Unlike Everest Base Camp or Annapurna treks, this journey does not require flights, high altitude acclimatization, or technical skills.

Duration: 2 Nights 3 Days
Maximum Elevation: Around 2,175 meters (Nagarkot)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Seasons: March–May and September–November
Starting Point: Sundarijal (1 hour drive from Kathmandu)

Why Choose Chisapani Nagarkot Trek?

There are many reasons why this trek is becoming increasingly popular.

1. Great for Those with Less Time

Not everyone can spend 10–15 days trekking in remote regions. This trek is perfect for those who want a weekend getaway or short holiday.

2. Forest Hiking Experience

The trek passes through dense forests of rhododendron, pine trees, bushes, and bamboo. During spring, the rhododendrons bloom beautifully, coloring the hills red and pink.

3. Inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

This trek is part of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, home to:

• Deer

• Monkeys

• Various bird species including Himalayan monal

• Kalij pheasant

• Blood pheasant

• Rich flora and fauna

You will walk through narrow forest trails, sometimes bending paths, sometimes muddy during summer, and sometimes walking between bushes and small jungle sections.

The trails are not extremely steep, making it comfortable for beginners.

Starting Point – Sundarijal

The journey begins with a one-hour drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. Sundarijal is also part of the Helambu circuit trail.

From Sundarijal, the trekking begins.

The trail gradually ascends through:

• Stone steps

• Water reservoirs

• Small villages

• Forest sections

After about 5 hours of walking, you reach Chisapani.

Day 1: Sundarijal to Chisapani (5–6 Hours)

The first day is a beautiful forest hike.

You walk through:

• Shivapuri watershed

• Forest trails

• Small Tamang villages

• Narrow bushy trails

• Muddy sections during monsoon

• Small streams and khola crossings

During the trail, you will witness:

• Amazing valley views

• Flowing streams

• Small waterfalls

• Jungle birds

• Wildlife sightings if lucky

One of the interesting stops along the broader region is Dhap Dam.

Dhap Dam Experience

Dhap Dam is a peaceful reservoir area located inside Shivapuri region. It has:

• A large lake

• Relaxing environment

• Tamang and Newari community presence

• Beautiful landscape views

There are some restrictions in the area as it is protected land. Army forces are stationed there for protection of national forest assets and wildlife.

It is a very peaceful and self-chilling destination.

After continuous hiking, you finally reach Chisapani.

Chisapani – The First Night Stay

Chisapani offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Langtang region mountains.

From here, you can clearly see:

• Langtang Lirung

• Dorje Lakpa

• Ganesh Himal

• Manaslu (on clear days)

• And distant Everest range

The evening sunset from Chisapani is peaceful and magical.

Accommodation options:

• Teahouse lodges

• Basic guesthouses

• Camping (optional)

You will enjoy local Nepali cuisine like:

• Dal Bhat

• Momos

• Masala tea

• Local snacks

The hospitality is warm and authentic.

Day 2: Chisapani to Nagarkot (6–7 Hours)

This is the most scenic day of the trek.

The trail passes through:

• Rolling hills

• Terraced fields

• Local villages

• Jungle sections

• Temple areas

• Rural landscapes

It is not extremely steep but includes some gradual ups and downs.

During the walk, you will enjoy wide Himalayan views including:

• Langtang Range

• Ganesh Himal

• Dorje Lakpa

• Manaslu

• And even Mount Everest (on very clear days)

Nagarkot is famous for offering views of 8 out of 13 Himalayan ranges in Nepal.

Nagarkot – The Mountain View Destination

Nagarkot is one of the most famous hill stations near Kathmandu.

Why Nagarkot is special:

• Stunning sunrise view

• Wide Himalayan panorama

• Comfortable hotels

• Peaceful atmosphere

The sunrise from Nagarkot is unforgettable.

As the first rays of the sun hit the Himalayan peaks, the mountains glow golden and orange. Watching this view from your breakfast table is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Second night is spent in Nagarkot in a comfortable lodge or hotel.

Day 3: Nagarkot to Changu Narayan (4 Hours) and Drive to Kathmandu

After sunrise, the trek continues downhill towards Changu Narayan Temple.

Changu Narayan is one of the oldest temples in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is rich in:

• Ancient stone carvings

• Historical inscriptions

• Traditional Newari architecture

You can also enjoy authentic Newari food in local restaurants.

After visiting the temple, you drive back to Kathmandu.

The trek concludes here.

What You Can Expect from This Trek

1. Stunning Himalayan views

2. Forest hiking adventure

3. Wildlife encounters

4. Cultural village experience

5. Local cuisine tasting

6. Less crowded peaceful trails

7. Mix of teahouse and camping option

8. Nature photography opportunities

9. Adventure with comfort

Is Chisapani Nagarkot Trek Suitable for You?

This trek is suitable if:

• You are physically fit for 5–6 hours walking daily

• You want a short Himalayan experience

• You are a beginner trekker

• You want peaceful trails

• You enjoy nature and culture

Altitude is not very high (around 2,175m), so risk of altitude sickness is very low.

Preparation for the Trek

To prepare properly:

Physical Preparation:

• Start walking regularly 3–4 weeks before trek

• Light cardio exercise

Gear Needed:

• Good trekking shoes

• Warm jacket

• Rain jacket (monsoon)

• Water bottle

• Backpack

• Sleeping bag (if camping)

Insurance:
Travel insurance recommended.

Guide:
Hiring a guide enhances safety and cultural experience.

Best Time for Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Best seasons:

Spring (March–May)

• Clear skies

• Blooming rhododendrons

• Moderate temperature

Autumn (September–November)

• Crystal clear mountain views

• Stable weather

• Best photography season

Winter:
Cold but peaceful.

Monsoon:
Muddy trails but lush greenery.

Food and Accommodation

Teahouses provide:

• Dal Bhat

• Fried rice

• Noodles

• Momos

• Pancakes

• Tea and coffee

Rooms are simple but comfortable.

Camping option is available upon request.

Cost of Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Cost depends on:

• Group size

• Guide service

• Accommodation category

• Transport

• Camping or teahouse

Generally affordable compared to high-altitude treks.

For customized cost for 2026/2027, you can contact Adventure Walkways.

Why Trek with Adventure Walkways?

We provide:

• Experienced local guides

• Flexible itinerary

• Customized package

• Safety-focused approach

• Friendly and professional service

• Competitive pricing

We specialize in short treks near Kathmandu as well as major Himalayan expeditions.

Final Words

The Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is more than just a short hike. It is a journey into Nepal’s natural beauty, culture, forests, wildlife, and Himalayan magic.

If you want to escape the busy city life, reconnect with nature, and witness breathtaking mountain sunrise within just 3 days, this trek is perfect for you.

Book your 2 Nights 3 Days Chisapani Nagarkot Trek with Adventure Walkways for 2026/2027 departures and experience the Himalayas like never before.