5 best hiking in Nepal

What is Hiking 

Hiking is a refreshing outdoor activity that involves walking on natural trails, hills, and scenic landscapes to explore nature and improve physical and mental well-being. Hiking is about walking on trails and hills and looking at really pretty views.

I think hiking in Nepal is especially nice because Nepal has a lot of kinds of landscapes. When you go hiking in Nepal you can walk on paths in the forest and visit villages where people live (Tour guide in Nepal, 2026).

You can also see beautiful mountains even if you are only going on a short hike. Hiking in Nepal is good for everyone no matter how fit you are. You do not have to be an athlete to go hiking in Nepal and you do not have to plan a long trip to do it. A Nepal hike is perfect, for people who are just starting out and for people who really love nature. Many travelers consider Nepal one of the top destinations for soft adventures because it combines nature, culture, and accessibility. With easy trails near cities and iconic Himalayan backdrops, the best hiking in Nepal provides a stress-free way to experience the country’s natural beauty.

Why Hiking is Important

Hiking is important because it improves both physical and mental health while allowing people to reconnect with nature. it helps you get stronger and have energy when you walk. Hiking is also easy on your body so you do not have to worry about getting hurt like you might with exercises.

When you are outside hiking you start to feel less worried and stressed out. You can clear your mind. Feel more relaxed. Hiking is like a way to feel better when you are down.

I like hiking because it helps me pay attention to the world around me. It gives me a chance to think and be creative which’s great because I am not staring at a screen all the time. Hiking is a way to take a break, from my daily routine and just enjoy nature and the outdoors. Additionally, it promotes social bonding, environmental awareness, and a healthier lifestyle, making it one of the most balanced and sustainable outdoor activities (kumar dahal, 2026).

What should you take before going for Hiking

There are very basic things you have to carry before going to hike in Nepal. Here are the top 9 things that you have to carry before going to hiking

1. Comfortable hiking shoes – Good grip and ankle support for uneven trails
2. Backpack (15–25L) – Light and easy to carry for day hikes
3. Light snacks or energy food – Nuts, fruits, energy bars, or local snacks
4. Weather-appropriate clothing – Breathable clothes, warm layer, and rain jacket
5. Cap / hat & sunglasses – Protection from sun exposure
6. Sunscreen & lip balm – High UV levels, even in cool weather
7. Mobile phone & power bank – Navigation and emergency use
8. Basic first-aid kit – Band-aids, pain relief, personal medicine
9. Cash (small amount) – For local tea shops or entry fees

 The 5 best Hiking in Nepal 

I will present you the 5 best Hiking in Nepal, which will cover the short hike and day hike in Nepal as well. some of them are are given mention below.

1.  Shivapuri day Hike 

The Shivapuri day hike is a rejuvenating one day trekking adventure located just 30 minutes from Kathmandu, offering travelers an escape into pristine nature within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. This accessible hiking experience in Nepal combines cultural exploration at Budhanilkantha Temple and Nangi Gompa monastery with breathtaking Himalayan views, making it the perfect introduction to trekking for beginners and a stress-relieving excursion for seasoned travelers.

Trip overview

Difficulty: Easy

Trip Style: Group

Start Point: Kathmandu

End Point: Kathmandu

Group Size: 2–5 people

Maximum Altitude: 2,563 meters

Best Season: September to June

2. Changu Narayan to Nagarkot Hike 

The Changu Narayan to Nagarkot hike is a moderate 12-kilometer day trek that starts from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Changu Narayan temple (1,541m) and ascends through traditional Tamang villages, terraced rice fields, and pine forests to reach Nagarkot view tower (2,195m). This scenic trail offers panoramic views of eight Himalayan ranges including Mount Everest, making it one of the best day hikes in Nepal for stress reduction and cultural immersion.

Trip overview

Difficulty: Easy

Start Point: Kathmandu

End Point: Kathmandu

Group Size: 1–15 people

Maximum Altitude: 2,175 m / 7,135 ft (Nagarkot)

Best Season: October–November (Autumn), March–May (Spring)

3. Shivapuri to Chisapani Hike 

Shivapuri Chisapani hike is a spectacular short trek from Kathmandu that offers an ideal escape from urban life into the pristine wilderness of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Starting with a 30 to 45-minute drive to Dada Gaun, it is a refreshing trek through the dense forest of Shivapuri National Park. The trails wind through a forest of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees offering a picturesque experience.

Trip Overview

Difficulty: Moderate

Trip Style: Group

Start Point: Kathmandu

End Point: Kathmandu

Maximum Altitude: 2,215 m / 7,267 ft

Accommodation: Tea House & Hotel

Best Season: January–June, September–December

4. Namo buddha day Hike 

Namo Buddha day hike is a 6-7 hour cultural trekking experience that combines sacred Buddhist sites, traditional Newari villages, and panoramic Himalayan views just 40 kilometers from Kathmandu. According to recent tourism data from 2025, this route attracts over 15,000 hikers annually seeking an accessible yet authentic Nepali experience. In this guide, you will learn the complete step-by-step hiking route, what to expect at Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, and practical tips for maximizing your day trip from Kathmandu.

Trip Overview

Difficulty: Easy

Trip Style: Group

Start Point: Dhulikhel

End Point: Khopasi

Group Size: 1–12 people

Maximum Altitude: 1,750 m

Best Season: All year round

5. Latarambeshwor Mahadev hike

Latarambeshwor Mahadev is a Hindu temple for Lord Shiva. This temple is in the Ipa Panchakanya area of Makwanpur district in Nepal. People like to visit Latarambeshwor Mahadev because it’s in a really pretty place. The hike to get to the Latarambeshwor Mahadev temple is not easy.

The Latarambeshwor Mahadev temple is very high up at about 2,700 meters. It takes about 2 to 3 hours to hike to the top of the Latarambeshwor Mahadev temple. The path, to the Latarambeshwor Mahadev temple is easy to follow. Some parts are very steep and hard to climb. The views from the top of the temple are stunning, and on a clear day, you can also see Kathmandu Valley.

Trip Overview

Difficulty: Easy

Trip Style: Group

Start Point: Kathmandu

End Point: Kathmandu

Group Size: 10 people

Maximum Altitude: 2,700 meters

Best Season: March–May and September–November