Trekking · Nepal
Nagarkot to Chisapani Trek
A short 2–3 day ridge trek from Nagarkot to Chisapani near Kathmandu, through Shivapuri forest with sunrise mountain views.
The Nagarkot to Chisapani trek is the classic short walk near Kathmandu — a 2–3 day ridge route through the forests of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park with a sweeping Himalayan panorama on clear mornings. It is one of the most accessible short treks in Nepal, starting just an hour and a half from the capital and needing no high-altitude acclimatisation.
Overview and highlights
The trek links the famous viewpoint of Nagarkot with the ridge village of Chisapani through oak and rhododendron forest on the edge of Shivapuri. The highlights are the sunrise mountain panorama, stretching from the Annapurnas and Manaslu across Langtang and Ganesh Himal to Everest on the clearest days, the birdlife of the national park, and the quiet Tamang and Brahmin villages along the way. It is a fine introduction before tackling bigger routes like the Pikey Peak trek.
Itinerary
A typical 2-day plan from Kathmandu:
| Day | Stage | Approx. altitude |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sunrise at Nagarkot, trek the ridge to Chisapani | 2,165 m |
| 2 | Chisapani to Sundarijal, drive to Kathmandu | 1,460 m |
Adding a third day lets you start gently from Sundarijal and reverse the route.
Difficulty and fitness
This is an easy to moderate trek. The route stays below about 2,300 metres so there is no altitude risk, but the forest ridge rolls up and down, so a basic level of fitness helps. The well-trodden trails and short distances make it ideal for families and first-timers. For more options near the city, see the best day hikes near Kathmandu.
Best time
Autumn (October–November) and winter give the clearest mountain views from the ridge, with crisp, stable skies. Spring (March–May) adds rhododendron colour and birdsong in the Shivapuri forest. The monsoon brings cloud, mud and obscured peaks; see the best time to visit Nepal.
Permits and cost
The trek crosses Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which charges an entry fee at the gate near Sundarijal or Chisapani. No TIMS card is needed for this short route. Lodging and meals in the simple ridge teahouses are inexpensive, and the only major cost is transport to and from the trailheads. A guide is optional but enriches the walk.
Getting there
The trek begins at Nagarkot, about ninety minutes by road from Kathmandu, and ends at Sundarijal on the city's northern edge. From there it is a short drive back into the capital. For transport tips and how to reach the trailheads, see our guide to getting around Nepal.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Nagarkot to Chisapani trek?+
It is usually walked in 2 to 3 days. A common plan is a sunrise at Nagarkot, a full day's walk along the ridge into Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to Chisapani, and a final descent to Sundarijal, where you drive back to Kathmandu.
What mountains can you see from this trek?+
On a clear day the ridge gives a long Himalayan panorama, from the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges in the west across Langtang and Ganesh Himal to the Everest massif in the east, plus Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shankar and Rolwaling peaks.
Is the Nagarkot to Chisapani trek difficult?+
It is easy to moderate. The route stays below 2,300 metres, so altitude is not a factor, but there is some up and down along the forested ridge. It suits fit beginners and families and makes a relaxed escape from Kathmandu.
Do you need permits for the Nagarkot to Chisapani trek?+
The trek passes through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which charges an entry fee, payable at the gate near Sundarijal or Chisapani. No TIMS card is required for this short low-altitude route, a guide is optional, and the trek can be walked in either direction.
