Dashain, the biggest and most celebrated festival in Nepal, is a time of family reunions, cultural rituals, and joyous gatherings. While the festival brings Kathmandu Valley to life with vibrant kites, swings, and rituals, it also offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the surrounding hills through hiking. The crisp autumn weather during Dashain is perfect for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to discover the natural beauty of the valley. Here are the top hiking spots in Kathmandu and near the Valley to visit this Dashain.
1. Nagarjun Hill (Jamacho Monastery Hike)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Best For: Short getaways with family
Nagarjun Hill, just a few kilometers from the city, is perfect for a family-friendly hike during the Dashain break. The trail to Jamacho Monastery is ideal for nature lovers, offering a peaceful escape into the forest. The fresh autumn air and the Dashain kites flying over the valley add a festive charm to the hike. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of Kathmandu, and on a clear day, the Himalayan range in the distance.
2. Shivapuri Peak (Top Hiking Spots In Kathmandu)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Best For: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts
For those looking for a challenging hike during Dashain, Shivapuri Peak is a perfect choice. Located in Shivapuri National Park, this hike leads you to the second-highest hill surrounding Kathmandu. The trail passes through dense forests, and the summit offers stunning views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges. Dashain is the perfect time to make this trek, as the weather is cool, and the skies are crystal clear, offering the best views of the distant peaks.
3. Champa Devi Hill
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Best For: Stunning views and cultural vibes
Champa Devi Hill, located on the southern edge of the valley, is a popular Dashain hike. The trail starts near Pharping and leads to the summit of Champa Devi Hill, providing spectacular views of the Kathmandu Valley. As you hike during the festival season, you’ll see traditional Dashain kites soaring in the sky and villagers preparing for the festivities. This hike offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and panoramic vistas of both the valley and the Himalayas.
4. Phulchowki Hill
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Duration: 7-8 hours
- Best For: Experienced hikers and nature lovers
Phulchowki Hill, the highest hill in the valley, offers a rewarding but challenging hike, perfect for those seeking adventure during Dashain. The trail begins near Godavari and takes you through lush rhododendron forests, which turn vibrant in the autumn. The cool and festive atmosphere of Dashain makes this long hike a memorable experience, especially with the breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Langtang, and Gaurishankar ranges from the top.
5. Nagarkot to Dhulikhel
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Best For: Families and scenic walks
Nagarkot is a famous getaway during Dashain for its amazing sunrise views of the Himalayas. The hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel is easy to moderate, making it perfect for families or those looking for a relaxing walk. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages decorated for Dashain, terraced fields, and forested areas. The cool autumn breeze and festive atmosphere make it one of the most delightful hikes during Dashain.
6. Sundarijal to Chisapani (Top Hiking Spots In Kathmandu)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Best For: Nature lovers and cultural explorers
For a blend of natural beauty and culture during Dashain, the Sundarijal to Chisapani hike is ideal. The trail, which passes through Shivapuri National Park, leads to the quaint village of Chisapani. The waterfalls, lush forests, and small Tamang villages along the route offer a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Dashain is an excellent time to explore this hike as the greenery is at its peak after the monsoon season, and the festive spirit is alive in the local villages.
7. Dhulikhel to Namobuddha
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Best For: Spiritual and scenic exploration
The hike from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and spiritual retreat during Dashain. Namobuddha is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, and the hike offers both a cultural and spiritual experience. Along the trail, you’ll encounter beautifully terraced fields and small villages adorned with Dashain decorations. The calm and serene environment of Namobuddha makes it a peaceful escape from the city during the festival.
8. Kakani to Bhanjyang (Top Hiking Spots In Kathmandu)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Best For: Nature and village life exploration
Kakani, a short drive from Kathmandu, is known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas. The hike to Bhanjyang is a beautiful trail that passes through traditional Tamang villages, pine forests, and terraced fields. During Dashain, the villages along the trail are vibrant with local celebrations, offering a unique opportunity to experience rural Nepali culture during the festival season. The cool autumn weather makes the hike even more enjoyable.
9. Panauti to Namobuddha (Top Hiking Spots In Kathmandu)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Best For: Short scenic hike with cultural insights
This easy hike from the historic town of Panauti to the spiritual site of Namobuddha is an excellent choice for a Dashain outing. Panauti itself is known for its rich history and cultural landmarks, and during Dashain, the town is lively with celebrations. The hike to Namobuddha offers stunning views of the countryside and is a peaceful retreat for those looking to spend a day immersed in nature and spirituality during the festive season.
10. Lakuri Bhanjyang
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Best For: Short family-friendly hikes
Lakuri Bhanjyang, located southeast of the valley, offers a quick escape into nature. It’s a relatively short and easy hike, making it perfect for families during Dashain. The trail leads to a hilltop offering panoramic views of the entire Kathmandu Valley and the distant Himalayan peaks. The festive atmosphere of Dashain, combined with the peaceful surroundings, makes Lakuri Bhanjyang an ideal spot for a day hike and a family picnic.
Why Dashain is the Perfect Time for Hiking: (Top Hiking Spots In Kathmandu)
- Pleasant Weather: The autumn season brings clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ideal for hiking.
- Festive Atmosphere: Villages and towns come alive with Dashain celebrations, giving you a chance to experience the local culture in its most vibrant form.
- Natural Beauty: The post-monsoon greenery and blooming flowers create stunning landscapes, making every hike more enjoyable.
Exploring the hiking trails around Kathmandu during Dashain offers a unique mix of nature, culture, and festivity. Whether you’re seeking a challenging adventure or a peaceful retreat with family, the hikes around the valley are perfect for making your Dashain even more memorable. So lace up your hiking boots and head out to explore the beauty of Kathmandu Valley this festive season!
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