hikes in Nepal

The ultimate hiker’s destination, Nepal’s dramatic mountains and dense jungles provide some fabulous trekking opportunities. Nestled just south of the Himalayas, this small country is packed with incredible trails, whether you’re looking for high-altitude treks in the shadow of Mount Everest, or steamy forest hikes in the national parks of the south. Wherever you go, the ancient Buddhist and Hindu cultures of Nepal are ever present, and you’re sure to receive a very warm welcome from the local inhabitants.

Nepal occupies some of the most famous trekking territory in the world, and hikers and climbers have been flocking to the region for many years. While Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit are the most popular destinations among visitors, there are many other regions to explore. Head to dizzying Himalayan heights of the western region, where you’ll find windswept monasteries perched on the roof of the world. Try a jungle safari in the national parks of the south, or head east for some of the best views of the Kanchenjunga Range that you could ever imagine. The Langtang Range offers many possibilities for hiking, just a short distance from Kathmandu, and is an excellent option if you’re short of time.

Wherever you choose to go, you’ll find excellent hiking infrastructure, friendly guides, spectacular trails and views that will remain etched into your memory for years to come! Start planning your trip today with our guide to hiking in Nepal.

Types Of Hiking In Nepal

Nepal is best known for its long distance treks into the heart of the Himalayas, with many incredible hiking routes around the Everest and Annapurna regions. These towering mountains, some of the tallest in the world, are filled with bucket list trails, many of which pass through some of the most fabulous scenery in the world. If you’re an adventure traveler looking for a challenging hike, Nepal is the place for you!

However, you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy a trip to Nepal. The central hills and the southern jungles are packed with easy and moderate trails, many of which combine historic sites, temples and monasteries with long distance trekking routes. This is the perfect way to immerse yourself into the rich and fascinating Nepalese culture, and to stretch your legs in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

Easy Hikes In Nepal

Bosan Hike: Just a short bus ride from the center of Kathmandu, the hike to Bosan Danda is one of the best easy hikes in Nepal, offering wonderful views of the nearby mountains. Along the trail you’ll pass by ancient, picturesque villages and lush jungle, before ascending to a popular viewpoint with a stunning vista. Don’t miss the traditional stone grinders used by the villagers to process lentils, a practice dating back centuries.

Day Hikes In Nepal

Chisapani to Nagarkot Hike: The route from Chisapani to Nagarkot stretches for 22km, making for a very satisfying trek and one of the best day hikes in Nepal. The route passes through dense forest and by serene lakes, calling at traditional villages along the way. You’ll see a variety of interesting flora and fauna, and enjoy some incredible views across the Kathmandu Valley and the terraced rice fields.

Challenging Hikes In Nepal

Phulchowki Hike: Phulchowki literally means ‘hill of flowers’, and this beautiful hike certainly lives up to its name! Located in the south east of Kathmandu Valley, Phulchowki Hill is abundant in beautiful flowers, plants and birds, making this hike an utter pleasure. The climb is somewhat strenuous, but there’s plenty to distract you along the way, including Hindu shrines and incredible views over the Kathmandu Valley. This trek is one of our favorite challenging hikes in Nepal.

Best Hikes In Nepal

Champadevi Hike: Deep in the heart of the southernmost end of Kathmandu Valley lies the dramatic Champadevi hilltop. This beautiful spot is a local site of pilgrimage, containing a shrine to a Hindu goddess, but you’ll also pass plenty of Buddhist monasteries along the family-friendly hiking trail. The trail passes through dense forest, filled with beautiful plants and flowers, and you’ll also see the atmospheric Bagmati River. Finally, the viewpoint at the top of Champadevi hill offers a fabulous panorama over the nearby Himalayan peaks of the Ganesh, Langtang and Gauri Shankar ranges.

Dahachowk Hike: If you’re looking for a combination of local heritage and fabulous scenery, this moderate hike in the west of the Kathmandu Valley is the one for you! The route passes through one of the most culturally significant parts of the valley, known for its sacred sites and memorials to local war heroes. The route is simply stunning, with incredible views over the nearby Himalayan peaks and the rest of the Kathmandu Valley.

Shivapuri Hike: This wonderful hike passes through the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a rich and profuse natural region in the Kathmandu Valley. The highlight of the trek is the view from Shivapuri Peak, where you can admire the majesty of the Himalayas and the beautiful Langtang Range. Don’t miss the fascinating convent at Nagi Gumba and the pilgrimage site at Budhanilkantha. The trek is fairly strenuous, but makes for a wonderful day out hiking from Kathmandu.

Chisapani Hike: Chisapani is a small hill station to the north of Kathmandu, and this is the place to come for some epic views over the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The route starts at Sundarijal, known for its gushing waterfalls, and climbs up through beautiful, traditional Nepalese villages. The trail may be steep, but the rewards are magnificent, with incredible views over the mountains. It’s also possible to stay the night at Chisapani to witness the incredible sunset and sunrise.

Panauti to Namobuddha Hike: Nepal is known for its fascinating Buddhist culture, and Namobuddha is home to Thrangu Tashi Yangtse monastery, one of the most important pilgrimage sites near Kathmandu. The route rises steeply, and you’ll soon catch a glimpse of the stunning monastery with its fluttering prayer flags, set against a backdrop of beautiful snow-capped mountains. The peaceful ambience of the monastery and the incredible Himalayan vista make this one of the best hikes in Nepal.

Sankhu to Nagarkot Hike: Looking for an escape from the chaotic, dusty city of Kathmandu? This moderate route from the ancient town of Sankhu will take you through lush green hills, past holy temples and rushing sacred streams. The trail is undulating and relatively easy, making this a very pleasant way to explore the region around Kathmandu.

Pilot Baba Ashram Hike: This short hike takes you to the ashram of ‘Pilot Baba’, a local sage who quit his job as a pilot and retreated to the hills near Kathmandu in search of spiritual peace. The setting of the ashram is spectacular, with wonderful views over the Kathmandu Valley. The teashop next to the ashram gate is a wonderful place for a pit stop!

When Is The Best Time To Hike In Nepal?

Nepal’s varied terrain and climate means that it’s possible to trek in at least some parts of the country at all times of the year. However, if you’re looking for Himalayan treks, it’s best to visit in the autumn, between September and late November. At this time you’ll find mild temperatures during the day, clear skies, and green hills, refreshed by the summer monsoon. Winter temperatures in the mountains are very cold, but by March, the spring flowers and abundant birdlife makes hiking a pleasure. The summer months tend to be hot, sticky and uncomfortable, and the monsoon rains make many trails difficult to access. This season is best avoided unless you’re on the hunt for specific types of wildlife and flora.

Best Regions For Hiking in Nepal

The most popular hiking regions in Nepal are centered on Everest and the Annapurna region, where there are many opportunities for day hikes and long distance backpacking. The Markha Valley is also a popular choice for hikers hoping to experience the incredible majesty of the Himalayas in all their glory. The central hills also offer fabulous possibilities for hiking, often with plenty of easier trails suitable for hikers of different levels of ability. Finally, Nepal’s southern jungle region is the ideal location for a safari, with wonderful routes passing through the Chitwan and Khaptad National Parks and the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.

Other Outdoor Activities in Nepal

Most travelers come to Nepal for the fabulous hiking and backpacking opportunities, and the trails that pass through the jungles and Himalayan regions are some of the best in the world! However, there are plenty of other outdoor activities in Nepal, and a trip here is the perfect moment to try something new. Rock climbing and ice climbing are very popular activities in the mountains, but it’s also possible to go mountain biking, rafting, canyoning, skydiving and even bungee jumping! Calling all adrenaline junkies – Nepal is the ideal place to get your adventure travel kicks.