Nepal’s Province No 3, home to Kathmandu and its surrounding hills, offers an unbeatable mix of accessible nature escapes and challenging mountain adventures. Unlike the more famous Everest or Annapurna routes, this area is perfect for travelers seeking shorter, more manageable hikes with incredible scenery—think lush forests, Himalayan views, and spiritual sites. We especially love the Shivapuri National Park day hikes for their mix of natural beauty and cultural insight, or the Langtang Valley trek for those ready to venture further into Nepal’s stunning mountain scenery.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through five of the best hiking and trekking tours in Province No 3, from quick day trips to multi-day adventures. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned trekker, these options showcase the region’s varied terrain and authentic experiences.
Quick Overview
Our list includes three day hikes suitable for those with limited time or looking for light excursions, along with two longer treks for avid hikers craving deeper immersion. There’s something for all—whether you prefer birdwatching, visiting monasteries, or summiting mountain peaks. For detailed information, check out each tour linked above.
1. Elevate Your Spirit: A Day Hike through Shivapuri’s Splendor
Starting from Thamel, this 8-hour day trip takes you into Shivapuri National Park, a lush forested refuge just outside Kathmandu. This tour is perfect if you want to experience Nepal’s natural biodiversity without leaving the city behind. You’ll visit the peaceful Nagi Gompa monastery, where you can learn about local spiritual traditions, and hike along trails that wind through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests. On a clear day, the panoramic views of Himalayan peaks and Kathmandu Valley are truly unforgettable.
What makes this trip stand out is its balance of nature and culture. The guide shares stories about the flora, fauna, and spiritual sites, making it ideal for those interested in both ecology and local life. The review rating of 4.9/5 suggests travelers find it rewarding—and the $90 price includes transportation and all entry fees.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a relaxing yet enriching day surrounded by greenery and mountain vistas, this hike is a fantastic choice.
$90 per person
2. Kathmandu: Shivapuri National Park Day Hike
Ranked a perfect 5/5, this 6-hour guided hike offers a comprehensive exploration of Shivapuri National Park, the second highest peak around Kathmandu. It’s a nature lover’s dream, with the chance to spot 177 bird species and 19 mammals as you trek through pines, oaks, and rhododendrons. The tour also includes visits to religious sites like Baghdwar and Bishnudwar, where Hindu and Buddhist traditions merge.
What sets this option apart is the rich biodiversity packed into a manageable day hike, along with the spectacular Himalayan views. The small group size and expert guide make it a very personal experience, perfect for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of the area’s ecology and spirituality. At only $86, it offers excellent value.
Bottom Line: For wildlife enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, this hike delivers a well-rounded experience close to Kathmandu.
$86 per person
3. Kathmandu: Shivapuri National park Day Hiking
This 7-hour moderate trek, priced at $53, is ideal for those seeking a more affordable yet still fulfilling day in nature. Starting from Les Portes de l’Aventure or Kathmandu Garden Home, the hike takes you through well-maintained trails with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and flora spotting—including rhododendrons and orchids that bloom year-round.
The route begins at Budhanilkantha temple, an important pilgrimage site, and climbs to Shivapuri, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu and the Himalayas. The highlight for many is the peaceful atmosphere away from city noise, combined with a chance to learn about local plant and animal species from the guide. This tour’s affordable price makes it accessible for budget travelers who still want a quality outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: If a shorter, budget-friendly hike with natural beauty and cultural sites appeals, this tour fits the bill.
$53 per person
4. Langtang Valley: 8-Day Trek Exploring the Kyanjin Gompa
For those ready to spend a week trekking, the Langtang Valley trek is a standout. This 8-day adventure takes you through vibrant Tamang villages, lush forests, and past snow-capped peaks, with key stops at the Kyanjin Gompa monastery and hikes to Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri for panoramic mountain views. The trek offers a deep dive into local culture and stunning scenery, with the chance to spot the elusive Red Panda.
While the price of $929 is on the higher side, it includes all logistics, guides, and accommodations, making it a convenient package. The trek’s highlights include spectacular mountain vistas and culture—a perfect choice for adventure travelers craving an authentic Nepali experience. The trek is suited for hikers with a reasonable fitness level due to its elevation gains and varied terrain.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded trek that combines mountain scenery, local culture, and wildlife, this adventure is hard to beat.
$929 per person
5. Shivapuri Nagarjun: Half-Day Hiking to Jamacho Gumba
Perfect for a quick escape, this half-day hike from Fulbari in Nagarjun takes you to Jamacho Gumba, a beautiful monastery with spectacular views of Kathmandu and the Langtang range. The tour, costing just $49, is a popular choice for those pressed for time but eager to experience Nepal’s natural beauty.
Walking along many steps, you’ll enjoy a refreshing walk through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, with plenty of opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. The highlight is the panoramic viewpoint at Jamacho Gumba, which offers a stunning vista of Kathmandu and the mountains beyond. This trip is especially suitable for travelers who want a light, scenic outing without a long trek.
Bottom Line: For a short, scenic hike that offers beautiful views and a peaceful environment, this half-day tour fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
$49 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Nepal Hike
When deciding which of these tours suits you best, consider your fitness level, time constraints, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and spiritual sites, the day hikes around Shivapuri Park or Jamacho Gumba are excellent options. For those wanting a more immersive experience, the Langtang Valley trek offers breathtaking mountain panoramas and authentic Tamang culture, but requires more time and stamina. Budget travelers should look at the 7-hour Shivapuri hike for its affordability and diversity.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons from September to November and March to May, when trails get busier. Think about what excites you—birdwatching, mountain views, cultural sites—and pick the tour that matches your interests and energy level.
Final Thoughts
Province No 3 offers a surprisingly diverse range of hiking options, from quick city escapes to multi-day mountain adventures. For a short but impactful trip, the day hikes around Shivapuri provide a perfect introduction to Nepal’s natural beauty, while the Langtang trek immerses you in stunning mountain vistas and local culture. Whether you’re after a relaxing walk or an adventurous trek, these tours promise genuine experiences that highlight the best of the region.
To ensure you get the most from your trip, plan ahead, consider your fitness level, and choose a tour that matches your style. With so many options available, there’s no reason to wait—book your Nepal hiking adventure now and prepare for memorable mountain moments.