Free Airport Pickup and Drop from the Company
The company provides a free airport pick-up and drop-off to facilitate your travel. Once your plane lands at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from the company will be holding a placard with your name on it. They will lift any luggage you can't manage and be with you directly to the private vehicle, which will take you to your hotel.
When you arrive at your hotel the company representative will also give you a complete briefing of your trekking adventure, check your trekking equipment, and provide you with advice on how to pack your gear. The company will provide pick-up and drop-off based on your agreed flight time so that you will never have to wait around. also for your departure the company will arrange your drop-off at the airport.
Can I Extend My Holiday Like A Day Trip in Kathmandu or Other Activities?
Your primary adventure may come to an end, but there are dozens of other fantastic adventures to be had in and around Kathmandu as well. From short day trips to short treks, there are ample ways to extend your holiday with activities, sightseeing or adventure. Whether it's culture, adventure, nature or all three there's something for every taste.
Here are just a few awesome ideas:
You can do things like an ancient temple tour, visit local markets, take a cooking class (or do all three), or perhaps a yoga/wellness retreat after a few treks. There are endless ways to extend your time and enjoy all that there is to discover in the magic of Nepal, at your very own pace.
Can I Store My Luggage/Suitcase in Kathmandu?
Yes, it is totally acceptable to leave your excess luggage in Kathmandu when heading out on treks/tours. This is often available for free luggage storage at our office HappyLand Treks. This is very useful as it allows you to travel without excess weight in your bag. Often your bags will be safe in the office, or your hotel till you get back.
You can enjoy all that is hiking, or chasing that sunrise behind the mountains free in the knowledge that you don't have to think about any big bags. Your luggage will be waiting when you return after conquering, leisurely sailing the fantastic treks; your journey back will also be problem free with there being no luggage to stress about.
Differences Between Solo Trek, Private Trek, and Group Trek
Solo Trek
Solo trekking in and around Kathmandu Valley (Nagarkot and Chisapani) is trekking alone with your own private guide and/or porter. You walk at your own pace and style. No waiting for someone or going faster than you.
Stop wherever and when you want, rest wherever and when you want, take a break or take a photo wherever and whenever you want. Your porter and guide will accompany you and take care of everything—packing your backpack, leading you, and reserving a room in a tea house or lodge.
Whatever you wish. If you want to spend 4 days where 3 would be enough, so it is. It's easy, relaxed, and great if you enjoy walking in peaceful surroundings. Independent trekking here also allows you to mingle with the locals and learn about nature according to your terms. You are provided with privacy, independence, and personal attention.
Private Trek
Private trek in Nagarkot and Chisapani is conducted by your own group, i.e., family members, friends, or couples. There will be no strangers as part of your group. You can start the trek on your date of choice, not based on a predetermined schedule.
The hike can be tailored—if your group wants to spend more days or see a specific village or viewpoint, it can be arranged. You can spend more time at the scenic places like Nagarkot if you are seeing the sunrise or mountain views. You have your own porters and guide who will be catering only to your group.
It is peaceful, safer, and more convenient for groups that need privacy. It is not a challenging hike and can be done at your leisure with your friends, enjoying nature and enjoying some quality time together.
Group Trek
Group trekking is to trek in groups, generally 2 to 12 people who make up a group. You will have a fixed departure time and date. The guide will get all of you together. You can mingle with foreigners and make friends. It is social, fun,
You will trek in a group and sleep together in tea houses or rest shelters. It is best for individuals who like to stay with people and have trekking in a group. The group will be safe and on time, and for that, the guide will be accountable. Sometimes group treks are of a fixed amount, and have to folow the group rules as well, and hence planning and booking become simple.
Family Trek
The family trekking near Kathmandu is suitable for children and older members of a family. The trekking trail is not extensive and is suitable for inexperienced individuals. The guide and porters for your family will arrange your convenience. You can walk slowly, rest often, and follow a different trail if needed. If any member of your family gets tired or gets slow, arrangements for support can be made.
You can watch the sunrise at Nagarkot, have your children play freely outdoors, and stroll comfortably to surrounding villages. It is a comfortable and safe way of spending time with your loved ones in the peaceful countryside of Kathmandu Valley.
Is It Safe For Solo or Female Travelers?
Yes, female and solo travelers can safely hike the Kathmandu Valley path to Nagarkot and Chisapani. This location is very close to the city hub of Kathmandu, it is good to walk and hike. Each year, many travelers solo hike here or go on guided hikes; either is safe enough, but better to take safety measures. We always advocate taking a local guide. A local guide will help not only with direction but with language, local culture, and safety. Again, be sure you are booking with a reputable local agency, and your hike will be fine.
At Happland Treks we have taken numerous solo travelers and solo female trekkers all across Nepal, including in the Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang regions, and we have years of experience and many happy clients from previous treks. Local knowledge and support make a significant difference in solo travel. We do recommend you take both a guide and an agent from Nepal.
Drinking Water On The Kathmandu Hiking Trail
Water for drinking can be found along the trek from Sundarijal Chisapani to Nagarkot in the teahouses, lodges, and shops on the way. Most will offer safe drinking water bottle. and it is not advisable to drink tap-related water without some treatment.
It is suggested that you take some purification tablets or a Steripen, just in case. You can fill your bottle from the tap, and filter the water for drinking. Drinking purification tablets are available from pharmacies, shops, and trekking equipment shops in Kathmandu city. If you want a Steripen, then it is better to take it with you from home, as they are not there in Nepal. To use the Steripen, just fill your water bottle with water, and swirl the pen in for about 60 seconds to kill the germs. Taking your own reusable water bottle is great for reducing plastic usage.
What To Expect On The Kathmandu Valley Trek (Chisapani – Nagarkot)?
The hike from Chisapani to Nagarkot is a lovely, brief walk that is very close to Kathmandu. This trek is ideal for anyone looking for forests, mountains, and peaceful walking trails without leaving the Kathmandu region.
Your journey will involve forest walks from Sundarijal, Mulkharka, Chisapani, Chauki Bhanjyang, Jarsing Pauwa, and small village walks (Nagarkot), finishing with sunrise views from Nagarkot. If you are lucky, you will also see some magnificent views of the Himalayan range if the weather is clear on the day of your trek. The trails are not difficult and suitable for novices or inexperienced hill walkers.
You should expect peaceful trails, fresh air, and a good mix of both nature and culture. The trek does not require a high-altitude hiking experience, so you don't have to worry very much about altitude sickness.
Typical Day
Whereas the scenery, villages, and hilltop views change from day to day, some things do remain constant on this trek. Each day on the trail starts and ends the same way:
Your day begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. Your trek begins on the same day. We typically begin our day from 6:30 to 7:00 am with breakfast at the teahouse. The food is ordered the previous evening so that it is prepared early. You then get your daypack prepared with items such as water, snacks, suncream, or a camera.
Your trekker will review the trail points before you will start walking around 7:45 am. Your porter (if you employ one) takes your large pack and hikes at his own pace. You'll walk on forest roads, small villages, and peaceful hillsides.
Lunch is eaten at a local teahouse or roadside eatery en route, generally in the middle of the day. The second part of the day's trek is done after lunch, until you reach your overnight accommodations. At the teahouse, you relax, order dinner (normally around 7:00 pm), and review tomorrow's itinerary with your guide.
Accommodation
In Kathmandu and Nagarkot, all hotels will have rooms with twin-sharing which usually consists of two single beds, sharing with another person. If you would like more privacy, you can request a single room, but it would be at an additional cost. The rooms are basic, clean, and comfortable enough to have a rest before or after your trek. In Chisapani, accommodation will be a local guesthouse. The room in Chisapani will have a more basic room with a bed and blanket but no carpet or comfort. The guest houses will usually have shared bathrooms and showers usually located outside of the room. The key point is that the rooms at Chisapani will be basic and simple, but they are likely safe to sleep in. If you do want a single room anywhere, the best would be to let your guide or hotel staff know as early as you can, and they will try to arrange one for you, if possible.
Training Requirement for Trekking and Hiking in Kathmandu (Nagarkot, Chisapani)
In general, trekking and hiking in the Kathmandu, Nagarkot and Chisapani areas require no specific training. These treks are easy to moderate, and therefore, virtually anyone should be able to do it without any pre-posted and little preparation. However, if you want to be a little more fit and, therefore, a little more comfortable and enjoy it a bit more, a little light exercise for the three weeks leading up to your trip will help. Sometimes, each of those 3 weeks, a little walking, jogging or climbing stairs, maybe 30 min. will suffice. It is great if you have been on a trek or two already, but it is not a necessity. You can easily get yourself into better shape just from a little training in one week before you go hiking. After all, this is not any intensive training, and these treks are not usually strenuous or steep classics.
Mountain Sickness in Trekking and Hiking in Kathmandu (Nagarkot, Chisapani)
Altitude sickness can occur in towns like Kathmandu, which are far lower than a trek in the high mountains. That said, on occasion, someone may begin to feel some mild symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness) within only a matter of a few hours if they simply climb too fast (or they have not acclimatized, or a combination of these issues). Like any hike, continue to pay attention to how your body feels, and at the first indication that you feel unwell, stop for a prolonged break (not go higher) and rest until you feel better. Staying hydrated, and eating some meat will also bring down your risk; some sort of altitude sickness is extremely rare on these moderate-height treks, but some awareness is prudent.
Prevention of Mountain Sickness
The best way to avoid mountain sickness while trekking in Kathmandu, Nagarkot and Chisapani is to go slow. Don't ascend to higher elevations too quickly. Drink lots of water while trekking to stay hydrated. Eating lighter, healthy food will also help your body to acclimatize; if you have too much heavy food, your body will take longer to acclimatize. Rest when you need to, and listen to your body when you need to stop; your body is telling you it is tired or dizzy. We suggest you don't drink alcohol or smoke before and while you're trekking because smoking, in particular, will increase your chances of sickness. If you notice symptoms such as headache or nausea, you must stop and rest. If symptoms get worse you must descend to a level lower in altitude. Using these simple ideas, you will have a safe and enjoyable trek in Nepal.
What Is The Best Season for Trekking and Hiking in Kathmandu?
Trekking and hiking around and at Chisapani, Nagarkot, and Kathmandu can be carried out even off-season as well as during peak season. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are peak seasons. It is usually pleasant and clear weather during these months, and thus the trails are better. Fewer trekkers are there off-season, and thus, you get more tranquility and solitude. The climate and weather here vary constantly by the second, so one must be prepared to encounter sudden temperature, wind, or rain changes.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is probably one of the best times to trek here. The weather is pleasant, there are flowers, and the forests are green and colorful. The days are normally clear and sunny, but mornings and evenings are chilly. The season has beautiful scenery and clean air, perfect for trekking.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is also the right time for trekking. The air is crisp and fresh after the rain of monsoons, and the blue skies are clear. It is not warm, and it is comfortable to be out and about all day. And it is tourist season, too, so there will be more people on the trails.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is chilly, particularly in the morning and evening. Days are chilly but pleasant. Snowfall is not frequent at Nagarkot and Chisapani, but expect to be cold and dress accordingly. The tracks are relatively less busy, which is liked by some trekkers.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
In the summer and monsoon season, it may be rainy and humid. The trail is slippery, and it rains heavily in the form of showers. The place is lovely and green but the rain does make the trekking a bit challenging. It's not one of my favorite trekking places, but feasible if you have waterproof equipment to deal with rain.
Equipment and Trekking Kit Necessary for Trekking and Hiking in Kathmandu (Nagarkot, Chisapani)
If you are planning to trek and hike in Kathmandu, Nagarkot and Chisapani, you will require the right equipment. First of all, proper footwear, specifically hiking boots, is essential; the paths are rocky, uneven and very difficult to traverse in trainers or approach shoes. Raincoats/waterproof jackets come in very handy if (not when) it rains, which is often, but things soon dry out. It does get chilly in the evenings, so you will probably be best advised to have a fleece or down jacket as well. A good backpack will make carrying all your gear and things much easier, and a lot of them also have rain covers. Trekking poles will also help you scale those steep and slippery bits and could even benefit your ergonomics when walking. The internet has lots of good lists with some advice on gear so have a look through that, too.
Food During Hiking Trip
A wide selection of hotels, restaurants, teahouses, and guesthouses that offer you many food options can be found in Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Chisapani on your hike. Each has a menu, and you will find things to choose from that you will like from each place. The accommodations will serve you very basic, simple but delicious food in Chisapani. In particular, we recommend trying a Nepali dish called Dal Bhat, which includes rice, lentil soup, and vegetables (and sometimes meat or pickles). The taste may be somewhat different from what you eat back home; however, in general, the food is fresh and hygienic. In Nagarkot, there are hotels with plenty of food options, with some local and some international options. You can also look forward to food and local specialties in street food fashion while visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Toilet and Shower in Trekking and Hiking - 3 Days
Western toilets and squatting toilets are standard in most lodges during trekking and hiking. Well, western toilets are available during this trip.
Showers are available at hotels and guesthouses, It is always better to pack your toiletries like shampoo, soap, and toilet paper, as personal toiletries are hygienic and handy. It is better to have hand sanitizer and wet wipes packed with you during your trek, too.
Mobile, Camera, Battery, Charge, and WIFI On The Trek
Charging:
While hiking destinations like Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Chisapani, charge your mobile and camera batteries (a.) at your hotel and/or guesthouse. In Kathmandu and Nagarkot, charging can be done often in each room and is usually complimentary, If posible It is almost always better to have a power bank as a precaution because electricity availability may not be consistent or timely, and/or electricity outages may occur.
Wifi:
Wifi can be obtained from most hotels in Kathmandu and Nagarkot. Several offer free wifi, included in your stay. In Chisapani, only a few guesthouses offer wifi, and typically that is a slow signal, likely with an added charge.
We would recommend downloading maps and any other information before you hike at any time into remote places, as you never know when internet access may not be available. It is possible to buy a local SIM card with a data plan for your cell phone if you need more reliable access.
What is the Highest Altitude of the Trek?
While you will not be at high altitude on this trek and hike near Kathmandu, Sundarijal, Nagarkot and Chisapani, your maximum altitude will be around 2,195 meters (7,205 feet) above sea level.
Nagarkot has some of the best sunrise views of the Himalayas in the world at this altitude, (if the good weather) and Chisapani, at a slightly lesser altitude, will still give you great scenery of the mountains, too. Because these are moderate altitude elevations compared to higher trekking options in the Himalayas, you should not experience altitude sickness.
Money Exchange in Kathmandu
It is quite simple to exchange foreign currency in Kathmandu Thamel, or bank. Thamel has a number of ATMs and money exchange counters/larger stores, and you should have no trouble finding them.
Your tour/trekking operator can also assist with money changes. Just a reminder: once you go into the mountains, you will not find money exchange anywhere, so please be sure to take care of your exchange needs before starting your trek. Carry a few small bills in Nepali rupees just in case you run across a situation that cannot give you change but will require a small change.
Trek Difficulty Level
The trekking and hiking trails neay by Kathmandu, sundarijal, Nagarkot, and Chisapani are moderate/easy. The trails are easy to navigate and while there are hills, no major steep climbs make it ideal for new hikers and families. Some smaller hills, and only a few minor climbs make walking on the trails easy. The altitude is not too high, so mountain sickness is not a story.
The trekking difficulty level is good for those looking to see nature without too much effort. Good shoes are important and going at your own pace - rest when you need to - it is okay to go slow.
How are the Trails of Trekking and Hiking near Kathmandu?
The trekking and hiking routes from Kathmandu to Nagarkot and Chisapani are easy to moderate and are more feasible for novices and families.
The road is upslope and a little uphill; at times, you are walking uphill and downhill, so both exist, and you do get experience of both kinds. You will be traveling over green grassy hills, forests, and valleys with pleasant nature and fine views of surrounding mountains.
The paths are rough, at times stone or pebble steps, and at other times village roads. Along the way, you trek through Hindu and Buddhist villages, and you experience their culture and lifestyle. Different ethnic groups like Tamang, Newar, Brahmin, thakali, and Gurung populate the area.
Weather in the Trekking and Kathmandu Hiking
Trekking and hiking near Kathmandu is possible every time and it is not too tough. Nagarkot, Kathmandu, and Chisapani have different weather and climate conditions for each month of the year. For trekkers in Nepal, the best trekking seasons of the year are Autumn and Spring; however, winter has some great winter trekking as well. Long trekking opportunities are not as good during the Monsoon seasons due to the rain.
January
January is the coldest month; it has the coolest temperature at night at 3° C and a pleasant temperature during the day at around 14° C. It is usually dry weather in January, so trekking is possible in January; however, it may be cold in the morning and at night.
February
With trekking in February, the dry weather is still a little bit warmer; the temperatures are 5° C to 17° C.
March
Spring temperatures are present in March, with temperatures ranging from 8° C to 20° C. The weather is lovely, the rhododendrons are in bloom, and it is perfect for trekking.
April
In terms of weather, April exhibits warm temperatures, 11-23° C, when compared to the other months. April is an ideal month for trekking when the temperatures are warm, and the skies are often clear, or at least more clear than the other months.
May
May is hotter than April, 15-23° C. Trekking is still possible; however, expect pre-monsoon rains.
June
June is when the monsoon season starts. Expect to see temperatures of 18-25°C. Expect heavy rain on nearly a daily basis, and trails to be very slippery. I would not recommend trekking in June.
July
July is much like June, hot and wet, and you should expect daily rain with temperatures of 19-25°C. Under these conditions, I would expect that trekking and outdoor activities will be virtually impossible.
August
August can be expected to continue the same conditions that we experienced in June and July, hot and wet with daily high temperatures similar to June and July. Be prepared for heavy rain, with trails likely wetter than in June and July.
September
The rainfall does decrease in September, and the temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C. Toward the end of the month, the weather starts to break, and the temperature warms, ideal times for trekking.
October
In terms of trekking, October is among the best months, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 23°C. Clear skies, just a nice day, made for great trekking conditions.
November
November weather is cool and dry; the temperatures range from 8°C to 20°C. There were no crowds out there on the trails, and the views still looked clear.
December
The weather is cold in December, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 16°C. It is dry, and trekking is possible, but it is cold. Proper gear is necessary.
Trekking Insurance
We strongly recommend trekking or hiking insurance for any travel in Nepal, even short walks as we find in Kathmandu, Nagarkot and Chisapani. Even though we are not in the Himalayas, and not that high, accidents, sudden bad weather events, and misplaced luggage do happen.
Travel insurance protects you in emergencies and accidents (medical issues and rescue with a helicopter - which can be considerably expensive if you are not covered); it also protects you when things go wrong, like canceled trips, delayed flights, and lost personal items like luggage or equipment.
Always check your policy carefully to confirm that it includes trekking activities; make sure to check with your provider in advance to confirm helicopter rescue is also included; and lastly, save a paper and electronic copy of your policy in a safe and secure place with you when you embark on your trekking adventure.
Nepal Visa Information
In order to enter Nepal, your passport must be valid for six months from the date you arrive in the country. You will also need at least one full blank page to place your visa stamp, Every traveler (Tourist, Business, Citizen, and Expatriate) entering Nepal will need to verify their passport validity. Tourist visas are issued upon entry to the country.
You may receive your visa at either Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, or any of the previously mentioned entry points along the border of Nepal. Make sure to fill out your visa application form and have your documents prepared ahead of time to ensure you are as efficient as possible and limit your wait time.
Tipping - Tips to the Guide and Porter
It is a must to always tip your guide and porter, which is also a way to show appreciation for their hard work and dedication on your trek. Typically it is up to you as to what a tip amount will be, based on what you are satisfied with and your budget. Tipping usually occurs at the end of the trek. Your willingness to tip will be appreciated and will encourage the porters or guides to keep up the great service.
Trekking Feedback
The trek will end back in Kathmandu. Happyland Treks will host a farewell dinner, a great opportunity to discuss your experience trekking and an opportunity to share stories with your trekking partners. Yes, it is an excellent opportunity to share a special meal, but it also provides us with a fantastic opportunity to provide feedback about your trip.
Feedback is important to us, so we can remain successful, and we always encourage you to write a review on one of our review platforms: Google Review, Trip Advisor, or one of our review pages on our website. Reviews help and assist other trekkers with their decisions.
