Short on time but still want real Himalayan views? These short treks near Kathmandu (1–3 days) are perfect if you’re on a tight schedule, travelling with family, or just want an acclimatisation hike before a longer trek.
Below are the best options close to the city, including distance from Kathmandu, difficulty, highlights, and who each trek is ideal for. We’ve also linked to detailed itineraries so you can check prices and day-by-day plans.
1. Shivapuri Hike – Classic One-Day Forest & Valley Views
Duration: 1 day
Start point: Budhanilkantha (about 30–45 min drive from Thamel)
Difficulty: Moderate (lots of uphill steps)
The Shivapuri Hike is a favourite day trek near Kathmandu for travellers who want quiet forest trails and wide views of the Kathmandu Valley. You’ll hike through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park with rhododendron and oak forests, small monasteries, and viewpoints over the city.
2. Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Hike – Ridge Walk with Sunrise & Village Life
Duration: 1 day (or 2 days with sunrise in Nagarkot)
Start point: Nagarkot (approx. 1.5–2 hours drive from Kathmandu)
Difficulty: Easy–moderate
This is one of the best short treks if you dream of sunrise views over the Himalaya but don’t want multi-day camping. Many travellers spend the night in Nagarkot for sunrise and then hike along the ridge to Dhulikhel, passing terraced fields and small villages.
See details: Nagarkot–Dhulikhel Hike.
3. Champadevi Hike – Quiet Ridge Above the City
Duration: 1 day
Start point: Pharping (about 1 hour drive from Kathmandu)
Difficulty: Moderate
The Champadevi Hike is a peaceful ridge south of Kathmandu. The trail climbs steadily through pine forest to a hilltop with shrines and prayer flags. On clear days you can see both the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks.
4. Phulchowki Hike – Highest Hill Around Kathmandu
Duration: 1 day
Start point: Godavari (around 45–60 min drive from Kathmandu)
Difficulty: Moderate–challenging (steep in places)
Phulchowki is the highest hill around the Kathmandu Valley, making it a superb viewpoint on clear days. The route passes through dense forest and is also popular with birdwatchers. In winter, there is sometimes snow near the top.
Which Short Trek Near Kathmandu Should I Choose?
- For first-timers: Nagarkot to Dhulikhel is gentle with big views and village life.
- For a proper workout: Shivapuri or Phulchowki have more elevation gain and feel like real mountain hikes.
- For quiet trails: Champadevi and Phulchowki are usually less busy.
Not sure which trek fits your fitness level and schedule? Contact us and we’ll suggest a short trek near Kathmandu based on your available days and interests.
