Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking - 3 Days

Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking - 3 Days
Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking - 3 Days
Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking - 3 Days
At a Glance
Duration3 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrek
Best TimeAll Season

The Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is a short and easy hike near Kathmandu, Nepal, renowned for its wide range of adventurous hiking, trekking, and other Himalayan expedition routes offering a mixture of natural beauty, cultural engagement, and stunning views of the Himalayas.

The hiking journey to Chisapani Nagarkot From Sundarijal to Telkot, with the mix-up and down through the lush green forests of Shivapuri National Park, passing by Chisapani, Nagarkot, and lastly Telkot, return back to Kathmandu, offering eternal views of dozens of snow-capped peaks, including the Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, Rolwing Range, and of course the top of the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 m), especially from Nagarkot.

While passing through the peaceful forests and fields of Nagarkot at 2,175 m in height (the highest elevation on this full trip), Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking Trail exhibits a lush mix of greenery accompanying cascading waterfalls and glimpses of traditional village life that makes it an excellent short yet low-priced destination within Nepal for adventurers who yearn to soar mountain peaks without hiking for longer days in the Himalayan region of Nepal.

Trip Highlights

  • The best way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life in a short time.
  • A seamless walk through the tranquil Shivapuri National Park.
  • Otherworldly sunsets and sunrises from Chisapani and Nagarkot.
  • Explore the rural culture, lifestyle, greenery, scenic terraced farms, and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Changunarayan Temple in Bhaktapur.
  • Awe-inspiring sights include Mt. Langtang, Annapurna, Gauri Shankar, Everest, etc.

What makes the trek to Chisapani Nagarkot special?

The Chisapani Nagarkot 3-Day Trek offers a unique combination of jaw-dropping scenery and cultural richness, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, providing you with panoramic views of the Himalayas, including those of the Langtang and Ganesh ranges. It is extremely rewarding, featuring spectacular sunrises and sunsets and a taste of rural Nepalese life, all in three days, as described in brief below:

The mythical views of the Himalayas

One of the most compelling aspects of the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is the magical panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, such as the Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, and others.

From the beginning, you will witness splendid views of the Himalayas and even a faint view of Mt. Everest from Nagarkot, especially during sunrise and sunset. At dawn and dusk, the first rays hit the surrounding countryside or snow-capped peaks, glowing in a glorious gold color far larger than life to make trekking to Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking an unforgettable journey of your lifetime around one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on this blue planet.

The rich cultural experience of rural Nepal

The trip to Chisapani Nagarkot passes through several traditional villages, mostly inhabited by the people of Tamang and Sherpa, presenting you with a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural experience of rural Nepal, whose roots are still connected to nature and traditional ways of living.

Trekkers and hikers on the way to Chisapani and Nagarkot walk along the charming quaint villages, where locals are mostly engaged in typical farming practices, weaving, and animal husbandry, along with beautiful landscapes coming alive with wildlife.

The scenic and cultural Bhaktapur exploration

Bhaktapur is one of the main cities among the three cities of the Kathmandu Valley in the east corner, which is about 13 km (8.1 miles) from the capital city and provides a scenic and cultural conclusion to the combined trip to Chisapani Nagarkot.

The city is famous for its rich Newar traditions, cuisine, and artisans, alongside one of the UNESCO World’s Heritage sites, Changu Narayan Temple, considered one of the oldest Hindu shrines in the valley, dating back to the 4th century, and Durbar Squares, an expansive plaza surrounded by ancient temples, places, and statues with the notable structure of a 55-window palace.

To conclude, Bhaktapur’s blend of historical grandeur, scenic beauty, cultural depth, and traditional craftsmanship ensures a profound connection between the country’s culture, traditions, and arts in the heart of Nepal, adding much to the cultural richness of the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek.

The adventure at the best proximity and accessibility from Kathmandu

Lying approximately at a distance of 32 km/20 miles and 50 km/31 miles, respectively, from Kathmandu Nagarkot and Chisapani, the hike to Chisapani Nagarkot stands out as a convenient and short escape into nature that can be completed in a short span of three days without requiring extensive travel.

This short combined journey usually starts from Sundarijal, which is a 2 to 3-hour drive from Kathamandu, depending on the road conditions and traffic of the trekking season and days passing through picturesque landscapes and a small village leading to Chisapani for the day.

While the hike from Chisapani to Nagarkot takes around 6-7 hours, which is a 2-3 hour drive from Kathmandu, ensuring enhanced and easier logistical management, the availability of accommodation in Chisapani and Nagarkot offers you an unparalleled escape from the chaos of the city, catering to the interests of a wide range of adventurers, whether beginners or trekking aspirants with family.

The most affordable hiking option in Nepal

Unlike some of the most infamous alpine jaunts in the Nepalese Himalayas, such as the Annapurna Base Camp Expedition, Everest Base Camp Trekking, Annapurna Circuit Voyage, and others, the combined hiking to Chisapani Nagarkot does not require extensive permits.

Throughout the trekking route, you can find varying levels of accommodation and meal options to choose from. Whether you are planning to spend holidays with family members, loved ones, or friends of varying ages, the Chisapani Nagarkot caters to it all.

Further, both of these destinations are a short drive from Kathmandu without several days of long hikes and trekking gear and equipment; hence, if you are looking for an incredible family holiday and budget-friendly trekking destination, look no further than Chisapani Nagarkot.

The best 3 Day itinerary and trekking route to explore Chisapani Nagarkot

The 3-day trek to Chisapani Nagarkot begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, concluding the day at Chisapani at an elevation of 2,165 m with an expanded sight of the Langtang range to capture the sunset when the interplay of light and shadow adds much to the panoramic Himalayan views.

The following morning trek takes you to Nagarkot, a hill station with breathtaking sunrise and sunset views of the Nepalese Himalayas, passing through notable traditional villages like Jhule and Chauki Bhanjyang to soak yourself completely in the natural and cultural beauty, while on the third day, you will hike down to return to Kathmandu through Telkot.

Further, the number of trek days and stays can be extended or reduced as per the preferences, walking pace, and specific needs of trekkers, travelers, and visitors, which nonetheless ensures an extremely enhanced experience in the proximity of Kathmandu, making it the best route for the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek.

The 3 Day Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking Cost 2024/2025

The 3-day Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking cost for 2024/2025 can range from USD 150 to USD 250 per person depending on the services you prefer, trekking season, means of transportation used, and your specific diet plans along with the type of travel, trek, and tour company you have decided to go with.

At Ammonite Adventures and Treks, you can get a special discount on trek groups with more than 10 members. We also excel at crafting personalized budget plans and itineraries considering individual differences!

Itinerary

The journey to Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking begins with a 30- to 1-hour drive from Kathmandu to the starting point of the hike, Sundarijal (1,350 m), through Shivapuri National Park, which is also a major water supplier for Kathmandu.

It would be lovely to walk across the dense forests of oak and pine with a high chance of encountering native wildlife, passing by several traditional settlements that lastly ascend to Chisapani for the night, a notable village predominately inhabited by the Sherpa ethnic group.

Max. Altitude: 2,165mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Comfortable-Lodge

The morning in Chisapani is beautiful, with the panoramic sights of snow-capped Himalayas. Take breakfast and head to yet another major viewpoint, Nagarkot, mostly famous for its sunrise views.

The trail is through Chauki Bhanjhyang, moving through verdant forests, typical villages, terraced farms, and fields, eventually leading you to Nagarkot in around 7 hours to spend overnight amidst one of the most spectacular sights to behold, especially during sunset.

Max. Altitude: 2,175mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Comfortable-Lodge

The day begins early as usual, before dawn, to catch a spectacular sight of sunrise from the viewpoint and witness the interplay of changing lights in the sky, filled in pink, red, and golden hues over the gigantic Himalayas.

After that, you will take a hearty breakfast and begin walking up to Telkot, from where you will be picked up by a car to Kathmandu, passing through the historical land of Bhaktapur, boasting its traditional architecture, temples, and palaces, including Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nyatapola Temple, and 55-window temples, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Changu Narayan Temple.

Max. Altitude: 2,175mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Comfortable-Lodge
Customize Trip
Trip Service Details
Included
  • Comfortable tea houses and lodges during the hike days.
  • All three meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—will be provided throughout the trek day as per the itinerary.
  • All essential documents and national park permits.
  • Private tourist car transportation.
  • Professional trekking guide with years of expertise in the field.
  • Travel insurance, lodging, food, beverages, and transportation for Nepalese staff.
Excluded
  • Nepal entry visa fee that you can get upon landing at the terminal gate of TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) or entry borders.
  • Your personal expenses, such as drinks, meals, and accommodation in Kathmandu, are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Travel aboard and departure tax at the airport.
  • Gratuities for guides are much appreciated and expected.
Additional Info

Do you need permits for the Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking?

Yes, as the short voyage to Chisapani Nagarkot passes through the Shivapuri National Park area, according to Nepalese rules and regulations, you must get a Trekkers Information Management Systems (TIMS) card and national park permit that aids in conserving the park's natural beauty, resources, and wildlife.

Usually, the Shivapuri National Park permit costs NPR 600 per person, while the TIMS card is priced at NPR 2000 (USD 20) per person regardless of the season. It is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), which helps to ensure your safety and security.

When is the best time to go for Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking?

Although autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) are considered the peak hiking, trekking, and expedition seasons in Nepal, even for peak climbing such as Mera Peak, Lobuche Peak, or a combined peak climbing journey to Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass, the hike to Chisapani Nagarkot is accessible throughout the year.

However, you must pack appropriately, gear well, and be prepared for the potential risk of monsoon or winter, Chisapani Nagarkot is an ideal trekking destination throughout the year.

Is Chisapani Nagarkot Trek difficult?

No, as compared to many Himalayan alpine trekking, voyages, expeditions, or odysseys, the Chisapani Nagarkot is regarded as an easy to moderate hike near the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, along the well-trodden paths consisting of pleasurable ascents and descents, suitable for every sort of trekker and traveler.

Adequate preparation, including good physical conditioning, correct hiking gear, and proper acclimatization to the surroundings, altitude, and air, adds to a holistic hiking journey where climbing skills are not necessarily compulsory.

What to pack for Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking?

For the trek to Chisapani Nagarkot, it is crucial to pack light but adequately to include moisture-soaking clothing, insulating layers, water, and wind-proof jackets, perfectly fitting comfortable hiking boots, a sun hat, a small daypack, water hydration systems, a first aid kit, trekking poles, and a light but warm sleeping bag.

Along with these, it is essential that you carry sunscreen, glasses, headlamps, identification documents, some energy snacks along with toiletries, personal hygiene and medication kits, and a camera to capture the spectacular scenery along the Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking route.

Where to get travel insurance for the trek to Chisapani Nagarkot?

Unfortunately, we at Ammonite Adventures and Treks do not sell travel insurance; however, it is imperative that you get one for yourself, as nothing in life is certain, especially when you are embarking on any sort of journey in a relatively new country, so it is always better to be prepared than sorry including one such traverse to Chisapani Nagarkot.

Although many insurance agents are available it is wise to purchase one from your own locality that can be held liable easily and is at your service whenever you need Though, it might not be mandatory to get one travel insurance does provide you a much needed financial security so that you get to make most of your trips where guides also help a lot to create an unforgettable voyage of a lifetime.

FAQs

Yes, as many tea houses and lodges offer varying local to international menus you can go all vegetarian options that may include Dal-Bhat-Tarkari (bowlful of rice with lentil soups and vegetables), vegetable curries, noodles, and others.

Usually, lying at a closer distance to the well-developed major city of Nepal, Kathmandu, the tea houses and lodges en route to Chisapani Nagarkot provide you with complimentary charging and water refilling services; if not, you might need to pay an additional USD 2–3.

Particularly, the Chisapani Nagarkot trekking trail is dominated by the magnificent sights of the five major Himalayan peaks of the country, including Langtang, Ganesh, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar, and last but not least, Mt. Everest (8,848 m).

The highest altitude gain you will ever experience on the way to Chisapani Nagarkot is at the viewpoint of Nagarkot itself, with astounding views of the surrounding Himalayas at approximately 2,165 m (7,103 ft) above sea level.

The chances of acute mountain sickness (AMS) on the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek are very low since the highest altitude reached is approximately 2,175 m, while AMS usually occurs above 3,000 m.