From Kathmandu: 3-Day Chisapani-Nagarkot Trek & Bhaktapur

Kathmandu’s nearby mountains and cultural treasures await on this 3-day Chisapani-Nagarkot trek combined with visits to Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan. Priced at $187, this tour is designed for those who want a taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and heritage without the long commitment of a week-long trek.
We love how this trip balances spectacular mountain vistas—including views of Everest and other giants—with culture in UNESCO heritage sites like Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan Temple. The route through Shivapuri National Park provides a peaceful escape into nature, and the chance to see local Tamang villages adds authenticity.

However, a key consideration is the weather—mountain views depend heavily on seasonal conditions. As some travelers have found, in dry seasons like April, smog and dust can obscure the peaks, turning what should be a panoramic experience into a more modest view. For those expecting dramatic vistas, it’s worth being aware of this potential disappointment. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a good mix of scenery and culture, and who are comfortable with some variable weather conditions.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines nature hikes with visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Spectacular Views: Offers mountain vistas from Chisapani and Nagarkot, including a sunrise over the Himalayas.
• Cultural Richness: Explores ancient temples and palace squares in Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable, personable guides, enhancing the local experience.
• Flexibility: Private or small group options, with flexible booking and cancellation.
• Weather Dependency: Mountain views are subject to seasonal visibility, so expectations should be managed during dry seasons.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Chisapani-Nagarkot Trek & Bhaktapur Tour

Starting Point: Kathmandu to Sundarijal

This tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Kathmandu, making logistics one less thing to worry about. Within an hour, you’ll arrive at Sundarijal (1,460 meters), marking the official start of your trek. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll appreciate the drive into Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a lush green patch that offers a contrast to Kathmandu’s bustling streets.

Day 1: From Sundarijal to Chisapani

The trek kicks off with an uphill walk following a large water pipe from the Sundarijal Reservoir—an iconic sight that immediately immerses you in the Nepali landscape. Entering Shivapuri National Park, you’ll hike through thick forests, experiencing a peaceful escape into nature.

The route then takes you through Mulkharka Village, where you can observe local Tamang culture, before ascending to Chisapani (2,165 meters). This village is renowned for its panoramic mountain views—though, as one traveler noted, in April, smog can hide the peaks. From the lodge in Chisapani, you can enjoy a stunning sunset over the Himalayas, a highlight that makes the effort worthwhile.

The overnight stay is comfortable, in a guest house with an attached bath, giving you a cozy base after a day of trekking. The price includes breakfast, which prepares you for the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Chisapani to Nagarkot

After breakfast, the trail continues through lush forests and terraced fields, descending to Jhule and Chauki Bhanjyang. From there, the land rises again toward Nagarkot, a well-known spot for some of the best mountain views near Kathmandu. You’ll pass through small villages, experiencing rural Nepali life, and ascend to Nagarkot (2,175 meters).

The real draw here is the spectacular mountain scenery—on clear mornings, you might see Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal, all in a single panoramic sweep. Many travelers comment on the “mesmerizing mountain and sunrise view from Nagarkot,” which captures the essence of this hike.

The stay here is at a three-star hotel with breakfast, offering a comfortable respite with excellent views.

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Day 3: From Nagarkot to Changu Narayan and Bhaktapur

The final day begins early to catch the sunrise—another chance to appreciate Nepal’s majestic mountains. After breakfast, your guide will lead you on a scenic hike to Changu Narayan Temple, one of Nepal’s oldest and most significant Hindu temples. The trail descends via Telkot, with fantastic bird’s-eye views of Bhaktapur and Kathmandu.

You’ll then visit Bhaktapur, the “City of Devotees,” famous for its well-preserved Durbar Square, the Fifty Five Window Palace, and the Golden Gate. The tour includes a stroll through Pottery Square, offering a glimpse into traditional crafts. The day concludes with a drive back to Kathmandu, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.

Logistics and Value

The tour includes private ground transfers in comfortable AC vehicles, making travel between sites seamless. Lodging in Chisapani and Nagarkot is included, both offering good value for the price of $187, especially considering the guided service and accommodations. The permit for Shivapuri National Park is also covered, simplifying the process.

It’s worth noting that lunch and dinner are not included, so packing some snacks or planning for meals in villages or Kathmandu is advisable. Also, a surcharge applies for solo travelers, which is common in such tours.

Real Travelers’ Perspectives

One reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the careful planning, noting that their guide Raj was “fantastic—personable, full of knowledge and an absolute joy to be with for those three days.” Conversely, another traveler expressed disappointment, citing limited mountain views due to seasonal dry conditions. They explained, “In April the beautiful mountains of Nepal are not visible at all due to the dry season—no rain to break up the smog.” This highlights how weather can influence the experience, especially in the shoulder seasons.

Travelers seem to value the authentic cultural visits and impressive vistas when conditions are right, but should be prepared for some variability depending on the weather.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your passport for local permits and identification.
• Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential — the terrain varies from forest trails to village paths.
• Expect dusty, hot conditions if traveling in dry seasons, and plan accordingly.
• Luggage should be manageable—oversized bags are not allowed on the trek.
• Early mornings are the best for mountain views, so plan for sunrise in Nagarkot.
• Book with flexibility—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, perfect if weather conditions aren’t cooperating.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for travelers who want to experience Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in a short time. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided excursions and want to avoid the hassle of independent planning. If you’re open to some potential weather-dependent surprises, this trek offers rewarding views and immersive cultural encounters.

It’s also suitable for those who prefer small or private groups, as the tour offers both options. However, travelers with mobility issues should consider that the terrain can be uneven and the walks somewhat strenuous.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day trek from Kathmandu to Chisapani, Nagarkot, and Bhaktapur offers a compact way to enjoy Nepal’s stunning mountain scenery combined with rich cultural sites. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations, making it a solid choice for those with limited time but eager to see Nepal beyond the city.

While the weather can be unpredictable, particularly with mountain visibility, the tour provides a meaningful glimpse into Nepali life, history, and natural beauty. The price is reasonable for what’s included—making it a good value, especially if you’re keen to combine scenic hiking with cultural exploration.

For travelers seeking a moderate adventure with authentic sights and views without the commitment of a longer trek, this tour strikes a practical and enjoyable balance. Just keep expectations realistic about mountain views during dry seasons, and you’ll find plenty to love.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private ground transfers by AC vehicle for all legs of the trip, making travel smooth and comfortable.

How long is the trek each day?
Day 1 involves 4-5 hours of trekking from Sundarijal to Chisapani. Day 2’s hike from Chisapani to Nagarkot is similar in length, with some uphill and downhill sections.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay overnight in a guest house with a private bathroom in Chisapani and a three-star hotel in Nagarkot, both offering good comfort levels.

What should I bring for the trek?
Pack passport, comfortable shoes, and clothes suitable for variable weather. It’s also wise to bring snacks, water, and sun protection.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at both overnight stops. Lunch and dinner are not, so plan accordingly or enjoy local eateries along the way.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if weather or other factors change your plans.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This trip is generally for those able to handle a few hours of walking each day. It may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges.

Will I see Everest on this tour?
You might see Everest from Chisapani and Nagarkot if the weather is clear, but mountain views are weather-dependent, especially during dry seasons.

What is the best time of year for this trek?
While the tour can be enjoyed year-round, mountain views are often best during clear seasons. Be aware that in dry months like April, mountain peaks may be obscured by smog.

You can check availability for your dates here: