Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking - 3 Days

The Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking route is a short, scenic circuit in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley that packs big Himalayan views into an easy trek. The trail climbs through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park’s pine and oak forests, with famous viewpoints at Chisapani and Nagarkot where sunrise over the Himalayas is spectacular.

Overall, the Sundarijal Chisapani hike is rated easy to moderate: most stages are a few hours of walking on well-defined paths and steps, with only some moderate ups and downs. With basic fitness, even families and first-time trekkers can enjoy this route. Typical days involve 4-6 hours of hiking (depending on pace), so it is well suited to beginners or those seeking a leisurely adventure (often called one of Nepal’s most family-friendly treks).

Seasons and Weather of Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking

The Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking is best undertaken in the post-monsoon and pre-monsoon windows: spring (March-May) and autumn (Sept-Nov), when the skies are clear and the weather is mild. In spring, the forest blooms with rhododendrons, and the air is fresh; in autumn, the air is crisp after the rains, and visibility is excellent.

The route can be done year-round, but monsoon season (mid-June-August) brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and leeches, so it is usually avoided by most trekkers. Winter (Dec-Feb) is cold, especially at night, though significant snowfall is rare on this trail. Winter days are often sunny and clear, but hikers should be prepared for brisk temperatures at higher elevations.

Altitude and Acclimatization

The highest elevations on the Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking trail are modest. The Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hike difficulty level is easy to moderate.  The Chisapani hiking route takes you around 2,000 m above sea level, and Nagarkot is approximately 2,175 m. There is a high pass on Day 1 of the Chisapani hike route, situated at 2,700 m. These altitudes are not extreme, but a gradual ascent means most trekkers feel little or no altitude sickness.

It’s wise to “go slow, drink water,” and if possible, spend a day or two in Kathmandu (1,400 m) beforehand to adjust. Because the incline is gentle, acclimatization is generally straightforward. Nonetheless, basic fitness and prior hiking experience are recommended, and anyone feeling unwell should take it easy or skip a section.

Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking Distance

From Kathmandu, the Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking begins by driving (30-45 min) to Sundarijal (1,350 m). Sundarijal distance from kathmandu 12-3 km north of Kathmandu. Then Sundarijal hike route climbs through the forest toward Shivapuri peak and then to Chisapani (2,200-2,300 m). The first day’s Sundarijal hike distance is about 4-6 hours, and the Sundarijal to Chisapani distance is about 12 km.

On Day 2, you hike from Chisapani to Nagarkot (2,175 m) via villages (Chauki Bhanjyang, etc.). This segment is roughly 20–22 km (6-7 hours) of mostly ridge and downhill hiking.

In total, the Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking covers about 25-30 km. (For reference, some itineraries include a short final day from Nagarkot down to Changunarayan temple before driving back to Kathmandu.) Along the way, there are frequent rest stops and lodges in small settlements (Mulkharka, Chauki, etc.) where you can refill water and have lunch.

• Sundarijal to Chisapani distance: 12 km, 4-5 hours (ascent from 1,350 m to 2,200 m).
• Chisapani to Nagarkot: 22 km, 6-7 hours (descends slightly overall, peaks at 2,200 m).
• Nagarkot to Changunarayan: 15 km, 3-4 hours downhill (Nagarkot 2,175 m → Changunarayan 1,500 m), then drive to Kathmandu.

These distances make each day very manageable for anyone with basic hiking experience. Walking poles and a modest pace are helpful, but technical gear isn’t needed on these dirt trails.

Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail

A highlight is the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail. This popular short loop (12 km round-trip, 3-4 hours) starts just outside Nagarkot village and follows a clearly marked route through pine/rhododendron forest and Tamang villages. It culminates at the famous viewpoint, offering 180° views of the Himalayas. On clear days, you can see eight major Himalayan ranges, from Dhaulagiri/Manaslu in the west across to Everest/Annapurna in the east.

Because the trail is well-maintained and mostly gently rolling, it is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. (In fact, it is often done as a family-friendly day hike.) Morning and evening light are especially magical here: many trekkers stay to watch sunrise or sunset over the peaks from the Nagarkot observation tower.

Accommodation and Meals during Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking

Lodging along the Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking is basic but comfortable. You will sleep one night in a teahouse/lodge at Chisapani and one night in a modest hotel or lodge in Nagarkot. Rooms are generally twin-share with simple beds and shared bathrooms. (Accommodation and service can be upgraded at extra cost.)

All lodging is on a bed-and-board basis: three meals a day are provided (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Meals are Nepali-style, usually dal-bhat (rice and lentils), vegetable curries, noodles/soups, eggs, etc., and are filling and nutritious after a day’s hike. In Kathmandu, you’ll usually stay at a 3-star hotel before/after the trek; in the hills, the teahouses may seem rustic, but travelers report them clean and friendly. The Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking package included meals and accommodation.

Notes: If you have any allergies or diest peference, please inform us during the booking of Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking.

Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking Packing Tips and Gear

Pack light but prepare for changing weather. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are essential, since parts of the trail (especially near Sundarijal) have many stone steps and uneven ground. Dress in layers: early mornings and late afternoons are cool, while midday sun can be strong.

Key items include a warm jacket or fleece, a long-sleeve shirt, a hat, and gloves for cold mornings, and a sun hat/sunglasses for daylight. Rain is possible in any season, so a lightweight waterproof jacket/pants are advisable. Bring at least 2-3 liters of water and high-energy snacks (nuts, chocolate bars) each day, as refill points are infrequent outside villages.

• Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots or shoes.
• Warm layers (fleece/jacket, thermal tops) plus rain jacket/pants.
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen.
• Daypack for water, snacks, a camera, and extra layers.
• First-aid kit and any personal medicines.
• A headlamp or flashlight (power outages can occur).
• A camera or smartphone to capture the stunning vistas.

Optional: Trekking poles (helpful on steps), a drybag for valuables, and a power bank. 

Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking Price

If you’re trekking without a packaged tour, then the total price for Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking may range from USD 65 to 100 for 3 days. This excludes guide and porter charges. The main expenses for solo hikers will be getting the Shivapuri National Park permit, costing you around USD 8–10/day. 

On the other hand, we, Access Nepal Tour and Trekking, offer a 3-day all-inclusive package for USD 290. It covers transportation from Kathmandu, accommodation charges, all meals during the trek, national park entry permits, and an experienced guide.

Why Choose Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking?

The Sundarijal hiking is beloved for its spectacular scenery and convenience. You get sweeping mountain panoramas (including sights of Everest/Lhotse and Annapurna on clear days) without the effort or time of a major expedition. It’s also very short and flexible, 2-3 days on well-marked trails, making it easy to fit into any itinerary. The gentle grade and teahouse support make it extremely family-friendly: children, parents, and even seniors can enjoy it with minimal risk.

Many trekkers use the Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking route as an introductory trek or a recovery walk (for example, as a gentle descent trek after a big climb) because it has comfortable lodging and no technical difficulty. Beyond nature, you’ll experience local culture in Tamang villages and pass ancient sites (like Changunarayan temple on the last day).

In short, Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking is an ideal short, scenic, and easy adventure, one that leaves hikers refreshed both physically and mentally. Another suitable beginner and family-friendly hiking option is Shivapuri National Park Hiking.

Booking Procedure for Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking

The Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking package is an all-inclusive package. The trek can be booked through the Access Nepal Tours and Trekking official website. To book this trip, you have to pay 10% of the total trip cost in advance. The second installment should be done after arrival in Kathmandu.  We accept wire transfers and card/online payments. 

In summary, when you book the Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot hiking package, you get a turnkey adventure: transport, permits, lodging, meals, guide (and usually a porter) are all taken care of. This makes the trip stress-free, letting you focus on enjoying the hiking and views.