7 Best Short Treks from Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the bustling capital city of Nepal, serves as a central hub for travellers embarking on treks throughout the country. It's a city rich in amenities and has a well-connected transportation network that reaches most parts of Nepal. Kathmandu itself is brimming with cultural treasures, boasting seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, the vibrant Kathmandu Durbar Square, the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, the architectural marvel Patan Durbar Square, the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, and the holy Pashupatinath Temple.

The city is not only about urban experiences; it also serves as a starting point for several short treks that offer a taste of Nepal's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. These treks are perfect for those who are short on time but eager to experience the serenity and panoramic views that the Himalayas are known for. Let's explore some of the best short treks that you can enjoy starting from Kathmandu.

1. Langtang valley trek

2. Gosaikunda trek

3. Poon Hill trek

4. Helambu trek

5. Nagarkot Chisapani trek

6. Namo Budhha trek

7. Champadevi Hike

Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley trek takes about a week to complete and offers a complete blend of scenic bliss, cultural exposure, and exploration of Nepal's diverse geography. Trek to Langtang Valley starts from Kathmandu leading to Syabrubesi. The itinerary expands through lush green forests, small traditional villages, terrific landscapes, and waterfalls of Langtang National Park and gets to the final destination of the trek, Kyanjin Gompa. 

Langtang Valley trek is a moderately difficult trek that can be achieved by people of all age groups (one of the best beginner-friendly treks of Nepal) The maximum altitude of the Langtang Valley trek is 4800 m/15655 ft at Kyanjin Ri. Hence, it has less to moderate risk of getting altitude sickness. 

Some of the major highlights of the trek are Kyanjin Gompa a Buddhist monastery situated inside the Langtang National Park that holds great spiritual and religious significance, Langtang Gompa, sight of Langtang Ri, Langtang, Langsisa, and Ganjala Peak, Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m / 22,854 ft), Yala Peak (5,732 m / 18,802 ft), etc, and sneak peak into lifestyle of the local Tamang community.

Gosaikuda trek

The Gosaikunda Trek is an enchanting journey to a series of pristine alpine lakes, primarily the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, situated at an elevation of 4,380 meters (14,370 feet). Alongside Gosaikunda, trekkers can marvel at other significant lakes such as Suryakunda at 4,610 meters (15,124.67 feet), Bhairav Kunda at 1,350 meters (4,429.13 feet), Saraswati Kunda at 4,550 meters (14,927.82 feet), Ganesh Kunda, and over a hundred smaller kundas (lakes). The trek can commence from Kathmandu, leading to either Dhunche for a shorter 5-day route or Syabrubesi for an extended 7-day adventure.

The adventure begins in Kathmandu and can take two different routes: a 5-day trek starting from Dhunche or a 7-day trek from Syabrubesi. As trekkers make their way through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, Tamang and Sherpa villages, and past waterfalls, they reach the breathtaking Gosaikunda Lake, an alpine freshwater lake. The highest point on the trek is the Lauribina La pass at 4,610 meters (15,120 feet), but despite this elevation, the risk of altitude sickness is low. This makes the Gosaikunda trek beginner-friendly due to its moderate trails and lower altitude range.

A highlight of the trek is Gosaikunda Lake itself, a site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, especially during the Janai Purnima festival. Suryakunda Lake, being the highest in the region at 4,600 meters (15,091 feet), is another significant pilgrimage spot for Hindu devotees. Saraswati Kunda Lake, named after the goddess of knowledge, presents an awe-inspiring vista. Similarly, Bhairav Kunda Lake is also held in high esteem, as it serves as a vital location for holy baths during the Janai Purnima festivities. Ganesh Kunda offers a spiritual pause along with stunning views of the towering peaks of Manaslu at 8,163 meters (26,781.5 feet), Ganesh Himal at 7,118 meters (23,353.02 feet), and the Langtang range.

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek

The Poon Hill trek is typically 4 days to 5 days long. It starts from Kathmandu, expands further ahead to Nayapul, traversing through Ulleri, and Ghorepani through lush forests, meadows, traditional villages, and landscapes, and gets to the finishing point of the trek, the Poon Hill. The maximum altitude of the Ghorepani Poonhill trek is 3210 m / 10531 ft. which means it has very minimal risk of mountain/altitude sickness and is doable by any person who has moderate health conditions. 

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek offers trekkers a chance to see some breathtaking views. As you walk the trail, you'll be able to see some of the tallest mountains in the world, such as:

• Mt. Dhaulagiri, which is 8,167 meters (26,795 feet) tall.

• Mt. Machhapuchhre, reaching up to 6,993 meters (22,942.91 feet).

• Mt. Annapurna I, stands at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet).

• Mt. Annapurna South, with a height of 7,129 meters (23,684 feet).

• Mt. Hiunchuli, which is 6,441 meters (21,131.89 feet) high.

• Mt. Nilgiri, at 2,637 meters (8,651.575 feet).

• Mt. Mardi, which is 5,587 meters (18,330 feet) tall.

One of the highlights of the trek is reaching the top of Poon Hill View Point. From here, you can watch the sunrise or sunset, and the light makes the mountains look even more stunning.

Along the way, you'll walk through charming villages with stone steps, like Ulleri Village, and pass by beautiful rhododendron forests, rice fields, and alpine lakes. Visiting the Ghandruk Village and Magar Village is a great way to learn about the local lifestyle and traditions in Nepal.

After a long day of hiking, a popular spot to relax is the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda. It's a perfect place to unwind and soothe your muscles.

Helambu Trek

 The Helambu trek takes one to the Langtang region. The starting point of the Helambu trek has one of the closest starting points from Kathmandu I.e. Sundarijal or Melamchi bazar. The trail moves ahead through Chisopani, Tharepati, Khutumsang, Ghyang, Sermathang, and finally to Melamchi. 

The maximum altitude of the Helambu trek is 3490 m / 11540 ft and can be completed within 6 days. Some of the major highlights of the Helambu trek are apple farm, grassy downs, icebergs, daisy and wild primulas meadows, lakes, snow-covered mountains namely Jugal Himal (6095 m / 19996.72 ft), Dorje Lakpa Himal (6966 m/ 22854 ft), Ganesh Himal (7118 m/ 23353.02 ft), Langtang Lirung Himal (7234 m/ 23724 ft), etc., Buddhist monasteries, Melamchi Pul Bazar, Shivapuri National park, waterfalls, Oak and rhododendron forests, Magen goth, pasture lands, tarke gyang, Melamchi River, etc. 

As the Helambu trek includes a part of the Tamang heritage trek one gets to live the traditional Tamang lifestyle and take a good look at their craftsmanship. The Helambu region is prominently inhabited by the Hyolmo people so, you get to learn more about their traditions and culture hand in hand.

 Nagarkot Chisapani trek

Nagarkot Chispani trek is one of the shortest treks in Nepal, with a total duration of 3 days. Starting from Kathmandu, followed by Namo Buddha, the trek traverses through stunning mountainous views, beautiful villages, and terraced lands, reaching Nagarkot. The Nagarkot starts with a tour around the colourful Kathmandu Valley. 

The highest altitude landmark of the Nagarkot Chisapani trek is Nagarkot itself (2175 m / 7135 ft). Since it has a very low elevation, there is little to no probability of altitude sickness. It is perfect for people who are new to trekking as the trail is well-maintained and does not have very hard ascends and descends. 

Some major attractions of the Nagarkot Chisapani trek are walking through the Shivapuri National Park and beholding the sight of majestic mountains like Langtang Lirung (7234 m/ 23724 ft), Mt.Ganesh  (7118 m/ 23353.02 ft), Mt. Manaslu (8163 m / 26781.5 ft), etc, less crowded trails, vivid landscapes, lush green forests, panoramic view from the Chisapani hilltop, Sunrise and sunset view from Nagarkot, learn about the local Tamang and Newar culture and heritage, etc.

Namobuddha trek

Located in the southeast of Kathmandu, Namo Buddha is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists for it is the most renowned place for meditation and self-reflection. The best part of the trek is, it is only one hour away from the capital and there is absolutely no need to put your feet in to work as both private and public vehicles go there. The Namo Buddha trek is completed within 2 days to 3 days. 

The maximum altitude of the trek is 2565 m / 8415 ft. Some of the fascinations of the Namo Buddha trek are various Buddist monasteries, traditional villages, Newari architecture, Kathmandu’s beautiful bird’s eye view, mountains like Langtang Lirung 7234 m/ 23724 ft)(7,227 m/ 23,711 ft), Ganesh Himal Range, Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m / 22,854 ft, Langtang II (6,571 m / 21,555 ft), Jugal Himal range (6095 m / 19996.72 ft), etc. the Namo Buddha stupa, Newari and Tamang culture and traditions. It is a relaxing trek that can be done by all levels of trekkers even the newbies.

Champadevi Hike

Champa Devi is around 15 km to 20 km away from Kathmandu. This place offers one of the best panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Trek to Champa Devi starts from Kathmandu and passes through rhododendron, pine, and oak forests, Pharphina, Newari, and Tamang villages, small cascading waterfalls, etc, and after about 4 to 5 hours of drive, you get to Champa Devi. The highest landmark of the trek is situated at an altitude of 2,278 m (7,474 ft), so, it is far from altitude danger and hardships of having to adapt to the change in environment.

Here are some attractions of the Champa devi hike: a peaceful forest trail that is not crowded, a Panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley from the top of the Champadevi hill, a Buddhist stupa, prayer flags, Bhutandevi temple, Hetauda it is a temple of goddess Bhutandevi who is the reincarnation of the goddess Durga hence a holy place for Hindus all around the world, trails decorated with stones, pine forests, view of  Mt. Everest (8849 m/29035 ft), Mt. Gaurishankar (7134 m/ 23406 ft), Mt.Ganesh  (7118 m/23353.02 ft), Mt. Langtang  (7234 m/ 23724 ft), Mt. Jugal (6095 m / 19996.72 ft), etc. 

 Conclusion

These are just a few of the best short treks that lie close to Kathmandu city, there are many more treks that might allure your personal interest. To know more about other most sought-after and unique treks of Nepal do some surfing on the internet.