I couldn’t have painted a better picture in my imagination if I had tried. The magic of mountains in Nepal is so irresistible that during a three-day Chisapani Nagarkot Trek, I couldn’t take my eyes away from the breathtaking scenery.

I didn’t have time for a long hike to Everest Base Camp or other long, adventurous trips. Instead, I chose a smaller path that was by no means simple yet satisfying.

The Nagarkot hike I took was perfect for what I had been seeking when looking for one of the best treks in Nepal. It’s also an excellent option for tourists who desire hiking places in Kathmandu but still want to explore the wilderness and escape the hustle and bustle of the chaotic city.

Let’s uncover one of the best short treks I’ve enjoyed completing during my travel experiences. It was an adventure that allowed me to see the best of Nepal, meet the beautiful locals, endure the pain of a hike, and feel the satisfaction of completing a fantastic adventure.

This is my incredible journey of the visually stunning Chisapani Nagarkot Trek in Nepal, and who knows, perhaps it’ll inspire me to endure a similar hike.

Are you visiting Kathmandu and the impressive mountains? Look for hotels at Booking.com!

A Chisapani Sunrise is a highlight of The Visually Stunning Chisapani Nagarkot Trek.

Nepal Adventures – The Visually Stunning Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

The Chisapani Nagarkot trek is a popular short trek in Nepal that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a glimpse into rural Nepalese life. This trek typically starts with a short drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. From there, trekkers ascend through the Shivapuri National Park, walking through dense forests home to various flora and fauna.

A Trekking Experience with the Nepal Hiking Team

The Chisapani trek was by no means a sponsored trip; I booked my short trek in Nepal through Tour Radar, which worked closely with one of the best hiking teams in the country, The Nepal Hiking Team.

Their reputation within Nepal is very positive, with fantastic reviews. They do treks of all kinds, including the longer hikes to the Everest Base Camp and Nepal short treks such as the three-day Chisapani to Nagarkot trek.

The experience with the Nepal Hiking Team was professional from start to finish; they took care of my oversized luggage while I was away and dropped it off at my next hotel before I even arrived back.

The Tour guide did a phenomenal job throughout the tour; it’s those conversations we shared during the trek that I will always remember fondly. Of course, there is the Porter—what a warrior! He carried all that extra luggage so I could enjoy my experience even further. The work ethic of all Porters in Nepal is genuinely inspiring.

All smiles on the Nepal trekking tour with a fantastic, helpful guide.

The Fitness levels required for the Chisapani Nagarkot Hike.

You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic for the three-day hike, but essential fitness is necessary to get through the journey.

I mean that essential fitness is your ability to hike for around eight hours in a single day, for over two days, with the third and final day requiring around a four-hour hike.

During the hike, you will encounter many uphill encounters that will feel heavy on your thighs as you ascend the mountains, particularly on the first day and sporadically over the next two days.

Another important note is the Kathmandu altitude. If you’re not used to it like me, it can leave you short of breath and hard to breathe, but slow and steady breathing will get you through without problems.

Preparation for the 3-day hike

It’s essential to minimise your backpack during the Chisapani Nagarkot trek, whether carrying it or the Porter is taking care of the pack.

You can generally wear the same clothes for the three days. However, a change of clothing is recommended, especially during your one night in Nagarkot, where luxury awaits you.

Other than that, make sure you wear long clothes, good hiking shoes, apply sunscreen, drink water, bring a camera, wear a beanie if hiking during the cold season and personal belongings, including your passport, that you will need for the trip.

For further information, you can always ask your tour provider pre-trip for what to pack for the hike, and they’ll help you with a quick reply.

Get prepared for the hike because the goats are waiting for you.

Day 1 – Kathmandu to Chisapani

An early morning wake-up was required at the Hotel Horizon in Kathmandu City. It was not too early, but I needed to check out of the room, eat a fulfilling breakfast, and get ready for pick up at 8 am.

I met the boss of the Nepal Hiking Team at the hotel’s entrance on the streets of Thamel. He had the guide and the Porter for the hike by his side, and we were driven to the tour’s starting point to begin the Chiapani Nagarkot trekking.

It Begins in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

There is a Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entrance fee of 1000 Nepalese rupees. However, park fees were already included in the tour price, and the guide took care of documents at the booth. All I needed to do was hand over my passport to the authorities.

From the outset, the Shivapuri trekking route started with an ascent up the mountains; it taught me a lesson of not going too hard too early and walking steadily. With the altitude, I found I was complex at breathing only a few minutes in and needed to slow my steps down a little. The breathing troubles wouldn’t last as I became accustomed to the conditions.

Entering the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

As we embarked on our journey, we traversed through the picturesque National Park, with its sprawling farms and lush greenery. The early stages of the trek were dotted with farm animals, particularly goats, who grazed leisurely in the sun-kissed pastures.

As we walked on, we stumbled upon an old, rustic tea house that had seen better days. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and we eagerly sat down to savour our first meal of the day—the hearty Nepalese delicacy, Dal Bhat. Our stomachs filled, and our spirits buoyed, we continued on our trek.

The landscape was a sight to behold, with the sun peeking through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the mountains. Nepal’s natural beauty was on full display, and we felt grateful for the opportunity to escape the city and immerse ourselves in its splendour. As we looked ahead to the Chisapani Trek, we couldn’t help but feel excited about the stunning vistas that awaited us.

Hiking to Chisapani in Nepal.

Greeted with snow through the Chisapani hike

I never expected to see snow; the snow has never really been a part of my life living in Western Australia. Therefore, I was grateful that the trekking area to Chisapani had heavy snowfall the previous night. It meant the trail was covered in snow and would not soon disappear.

I was like a little kid experiencing something new; I had previously seen snow twice in my life, once as a kid and the second time in Muju-Gun, South Korea. The further I walked through the forest, the more the snow became to avoid. I didn’t want to prevent it from being truthful, and with a gleaming smile, I kept moving forward, embracing the new personal experience.

It also made the scenery appear even more beautiful; I have always thought the outdoors looked better with snow, and it was hard to persuade myself otherwise with what I saw. Of course, I was lucky to have snowfall during my hike. It may not be the same for other travellers participating in the trek, but they are the breaks in life.

The snow-covered ground on the way to Chisapani.

The incredible Himalayan Mountain views begin to appear

A glorious day in the Nepalese wilderness and heavy snowfall, what more could seem to make this day even more special?

The Himalayan Mountains, of course.

How breathtaking and overpowering were the mountains at first sight. Never in my life had I seen anything more mesmerising as my eyes became captivated by the mountain ranges, which became endless.

The mountains of Nepal would follow me for the trip and hardly leave my sight. It follows you through the majority of the Chisapani Nagarkot trek. I often fall on my backside through the tricky terrain, distracted by such beauty.

I did not harm. I got up and dusted it off. The mountains had been in my sight for only three days, and I didn’t want to waste this precious moment.

The Himalayan Mountains begin to appear on the trek.

Staying the Night in a Chisapani Lodge

An Earthquake affected the area during the devastations in 2015; the Chispani town is torn apart with half-demolished buildings yet to be bulldozed, and it looks like a few of those buildings are about to tumble over.

That’s the devastating side of things done within Chisapani.

Chispani is the base of the first night of the tour and home to the million-dollar views with the Langtang Himalayan Ranges in full sight. The Dorje Lapka Hotel we stayed at certainly wasn’t luxurious; the rooms were cold and had no heating, but there was a warm shower, a fulfilling meal for dinner, and extra thick blankets for additional warmth.

However, from your hotel window, you could see the never-ending mountain ranges of the Himalayas. What else mattered when travelling through Nepal alone but having a bed and the mountains in view?

Day one was complete, and what a positive experience it had been as I eagerly awaited day two of the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek.

Don’t you have time for a three-day hike? Enjoy a day hike in Nagarkot with Klook!

An overview of the Chisapani Hotel and the surrounding earthquake-affected buildings.

Day 2 – Hiking from Chisapani to Nagarkot

The third day of our Nepal tour proved to be one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of the trip. We set out from the picturesque village of Chisapani, determined to cover the most significant distance we had attempted in a single day of trekking.

The journey took us through an enchanting forest, where we were immersed in the rustling sounds of the leaves and birds chirping. As we walked past farms and quaint villages, we were met with warm smiles and greetings from the friendly locals. The scenic beauty of Nepal continued to unfold before our eyes, and we couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and amazement. Finally, we arrived at our destination, Nagarkot, where we were rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Himalayas.

An Amazing Sunrise in Chisapani

They always say the Nagarkot sunrise is the best view during the trek. If that is the case, I was looking forward to the following morning because the Chispani version didn’t let me down.

I set the alarm for 6 am on a cold morning in Nepal; I wouldn’t miss this sunrise in Chisapani for anything. With the day somewhat clear upon waking up, I was greeted by the best sunrise I had ever seen, continually watching the morning sun make its way over the Himalayan Mountains.

I watched the magic over the horizon for half an hour, from near darkness to the first morning light when the sun lifted over the mountains in the distance. The dawn experience was incredible as I stood in one spot and witnessed the landscape change.

With so much going wrong, seeing the planet at its very best in an unfamiliar part of the world was mesmerising.

The sunrise in Chisapani.

The 20-kilometre Nagarkot Trek

After delicious apple pancakes for breakfast with coffee, the next leg of the Chispani Nagarkot Trek started early with a long day of hiking ahead.

In the early parts, the terrain was more comfortable to handle. We took the risk-free track through the forest for the first couple of hours, and no actual events occurred as we marched onwards and checked out the surroundings occasionally.

A few hours into the hike, we stopped for lunch at a lovely restaurant that appeared in the middle of nowhere. The hidden restaurant had impressive facilities, with a glamorous dining area and guest rooms below. I fell in love with Nepalese food during this trip, so I had the Dal Bhat once more, which, as always, was an impressive dish.

The beautiful scenery and an even better lunch.

After an impressive lunch, the second half of the walk continued. The forest path deserted us; we walked through villages, farms, and mini-townships this time. It was fascinating to understand how the Nepalese lived away from the city.

For an extended period, uphill climbs were rare until we reached the final leg into Nagarkot township. It was the hardest uphill climb of the whole Chisapani Nagarkot Trek, with the thighs starting to feel heavy. We continued upwards for what seemed like hours, but it lasted around 45-60 minutes.

Into Nagarkot, you can tell you have found another beautiful part of the country as you wander through a quiet township with many hotels lined together, most looking rather impressive and with Himalayan Views.

Our hotel seemed to be the last one in Nagarkot, continuing the delay to end the big day’s hike. However, the wait was worth it as we checked into the Hotel Himalayan Villa.

You don’t have time for a three-day hike? Enjoy a day hike in Nagarkot with Klook!

A small village on the way to Nagarkot from Chisapani.

The incredible Hotel Himalayan Villa

I loved this hotel, and you can read the full feature article about the Hotel Himalayan Villa with this link.

The Hotel Himalayan is only around 60-90 minutes from Kathmandu, so you could easily spend a night or two in Nagarkot, staying at this excellent Villa or any other Nagarkot accommodation in the township.

The Hotel Himalayan Villa is a modern hotel with beautiful facilities. Its biggest drawcard is the Open Terrace, which faces the Langtang Himalayan Mountains. This is the ideal spot to purchase an alcoholic beverage from the bar and enjoy your drink outside on the terrace with incredible views in the distance.

The luxury and spacious rooms are impressive, too. My hotel room had a king-size bed, cable television, air conditioning/heating, a fully equipped bathroom, and a private balcony to appreciate the mountains further.

The hotel’s restaurant serves a buffet with a great selection of casseroles, pasta, carvery, vegetables, and desserts for dinner. Along with the guide, who joins me for dinner, we tuck into a few plates of the buffet food before going in our direction and resting up before the final hike in the morning.

Do you want to take a separate trip to Nagarkot and stay at Hotel Himalayan Villa? Check prices at Booking.com!

The Hotel Himalaya Villa in Nagarkot.

Day 3 – The Conclusion to the Chispani to Nagarkot Trek

The three-day hike was an arduous but exhilarating journey culminating in a breathtaking yet non-existent sunrise. The hikers trekked through challenging terrains, passed by stunning landscapes, and braved the elements to reach the summit. After a long and tiresome climb, they were disappointed to find that the sunrise they had been eagerly anticipating was obscured by thick clouds.

Nevertheless, they persevered and continued their journey towards the Changunarayan Temple, a magnificent temple steeped in history and mythology. The morning hike was a challenging three-hour trek, but the group was rewarded with stunning views of the valley below and the majestic Himalayas in the distance.

Finally, as they descended from the temple, they were met with the chaotic scenes of Kathmandu City, a stark contrast to the serene and peaceful surroundings they had left behind.

It wasn’t all perfect.

I wish I had beautiful pictures to show you of a Nagarkot Sunrise. Unfortunately, we do not live in an ideal world, and the perfect photo couldn’t happen.

I hoped for a mesmerising sunrise on the final morning of the Chisapani Nagarkot trek. However, it wasn’t to happen, with the surrounding area interrupted by thick cloud coverage blocking sunlight. Such is life.

On a clear day, I do not doubt that the morning views from the Nagarkot Hotel would be as incredible as they were the afternoon before. I had been so lucky through this tour already. I wasn’t about to complain about the minor details that didn’t go as planned.

It’s not the perfect sunrise, and it’s not too bad of a view anyway.

The Nagarkot Changunarayan Hike

On a foggy day and still, helicopters were crazy enough to fly in the skies with reduced visibility. Even to the guide, it was madness because Nepal has had its fair share of tragedy over the years.

With the noise in the skies, we continued on foot on the ground, wandering through more villages and farms towards our final destination in Changunarayan.

It was not a long hike this morning, and it was much appreciated. While the Chisapni Nagarkot trek is short compared to other walks in Nepal, it was unusual for me to be regularly on my feet for three days, and my body felt a few aches and pains during the final leg.

A friendly goat makes an appearance.

The hike finished in a small town called Changu, a boutique village with market stalls, coffee shops, restaurants, and museums. The magnificent Changu Narayan Temple is said to be the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley.

It was the ideal conclusion to the hike, which gave plenty for the duration of the tour. Standing inside an ancient temple, surrounded by the Changu village and the Champak Tree Forest, perfectly concludes the story of the three-day hike near Kathmandu.

The Temple concludes the three-day hike.

The End of an Exciting Adventure

The experience of the Chisapani Nagarkot trek was surreal. At the same time, you had to grind it during the day through stretches of the hike, mainly uphill; there were indeed no boring bits associated with the journey.

How could there be a Nepalese culture and landscapes to keep you occupied, with the Himalayan Mountains, stupas, temples, villages and farms to gaze at while roaming the country by day?

It’s the ideal hike for those who don’t want to be on their feet for too long but still witness the best of Nepal. If you are touring the Kathmandu Valley area and wondering what to do, consider the Nagarkot to Chisapani trek. You won’t regret it.

Changu Village

What were my humble views of the vibrant Nepalese Capital City? This article is an honest opinion of a hectic Kathmandu Trip.

The Nepal trip is wrapped up, and now I am trying to get my head around my thoughts about this unique yet exciting city of Kathmandu, Nepal. Many experiences during the Kathmandu trip were primarily positive, with a couple of negatives; however, in this honest opinion, I delve into the positives and the negatives of a city I’ll never forget.

I loved my Kathmandu stay, and I did; perhaps it’s love more reserved for a distant friend that you are happy to see occasionally, but the love is still there. I guess that’s my sincere feelings towards the Nepalese Capital City; I’m glad to come back and delighted to see the future changes when I return.

One thing is for sure: I will return for a second Nepal tour in the coming years because I would love to see those breathtaking mountains again and further explore other areas of the country.

In my honest opinion, when discussing the positives and negatives of my Kathmandu vacation in this article, I will go through what I enjoyed most and what I didn’t want so much. However, one thing is for sure: if anyone were to ask me whether they should travel to Nepal, especially the big chaotic city, I would give a resounding yes!

Are you looking for cheap hotels in Kathmandu? Look for accommodation at Booking.com!

The positives and negatives from my perspective of my Kathmandu trip in 2019.

An Honest Review of A Hectic Kathmandu Trip in Nepal

Exploring foreign countries can be exhilarating and eye-opening, but it also presents challenges. As a traveller, I must remember that I am a guest in their country and responsible for honouring and respecting their way of life.

The word “respect” encompasses a multitude of things: it means respecting their religious beliefs, appreciating their cultural practices, valuing their livelihoods, savouring their cuisine, and obeying their laws. No matter how I feel, I recognise that my actions and behaviour can significantly impact the local community and culture. Therefore, I strive to be a respectful and responsible traveller.

Show respect in attractions like the Pashupatinath Temple.

The Sadness of Kathmandu Nepal

Suppose you are planning a visit to the Kathmandu Valley area. In that case, it’s crucial to be aware that the region suffered a significant earthquake in 2015, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The rebuilding and restoration process has been slow, particularly in the Durbar Squares of Patan and Kathmandu, which were hit hardest by the earthquake. You may notice that many tourist attractions and structures are still undergoing repairs and maintenance.

Despite the ongoing rebuilding efforts, it’s important to note that Kathmandu still has plenty to offer visitors, and many attractions remain open to the public. While some areas may be temporarily closed or restricted, you can still explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

So, don’t let the earthquake deter you from visiting Nepal. With a positive attitude and an open mind, you’ll have a rewarding experience wherever you go. Just be prepared for minor inconveniences and delays as the city recovers and rebuilds.

Click here to enjoy a full day touring the Kathmandu Valley with Klook and visit beautiful attractions!

One out of three is not wrong at Amideva Buddha Park, but construction is expected.

The Negative experiences of my Kathmandu Trip

Although travel can be exciting, it’s not always perfect. In this text, I’ll discuss the negative aspects of my Kathmandu travel experience, followed by the positive ones. It’s worth noting that despite the negatives, the positives outweigh them—but that’s just how life is in the real world.

The Road conditions of Kathmandu City

One of the biggest challenges you may face when travelling to some third-world countries is the transportation system. Roads, in particular, can differ from what you are used to in Western countries. While some roads may have bitumen, the overall conditions are often subpar, with potholes appearing without warning. You may also come across streets with no asphalt at all. During the dry months, a dusty haze can cover the entire city, making it difficult to see the roads and the surrounding area.

Road works can happen at any time, and usually, there is minimal signage to guide you. If you are driving, you’ll need to navigate through the construction sites independently, often with no clear indication of which way to go. At times, locals or workers may give you instructions, which can be confusing or contradictory. Sometimes, you may need to turn around and find an alternate route.

Even on foot, you may be in the middle of a busy road work site. There is a real risk of danger as excavators and other heavy machinery work to repair or expand the roads. You must be alert, cautious, and constantly aware of your surroundings. Despite all these challenges, navigating the streets and getting where you need to go is often possible as long as you are prepared for the unexpected.

The traffic in Kathmandu is chaotic.

Kathmandu is a bustling city with a lot of traffic on its roads, which can sometimes be overwhelming. You’ll see many bikes, cars, buses, and even people on foot, all trying to make their way through the city. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re in a taxi and realise how quickly traffic moves.

Even short distances can take a long time to cover. When you first look at the distance in kilometres to a Kathmandu place you’re visiting, you’ll think that it’s not so bad and shouldn’t take too long. But once you get into the taxi, you’ll realise that you moved only a few metres in several minutes.

While some places in Kathmandu are within walking distance, such as Thamel, others, like Bhaktapur and Patan, are pretty far and require a taxi or other modes of transportation. However, you must navigate the city’s chaotic traffic even with a cab. The vehicles and pedestrians jostle for space on the narrow roads, and getting from one place to another can be quite an adventure. But don’t worry; with patience and caution, you’ll get to your destination safely.

The traffic is not always this laid back in the streets of Kathmandu.

Many approaches from locals while walking the streets of Thamel

One thing is for sure: the locals know the tourists are in Thamel, and many are out on the streets in an attempt to make money. It’s as simple as that.

During my travels in Kathmandu, I couldn’t walk 10-metres in Thamel without continually being approached to buy drugs, hike in the mountains, have a rickshaw ride, purchase a souvenir, buy this, buy that; it all got very annoying. Ultimately, the politeness disappeared, and you would not answer any request. Sometimes, the locals followed you, but never for too long.

Even at tourist places in Kathmandu, you are often approached by someone who requests to be your guide. I am the kind of traveller who likes to wander through attractions quietly. I wouldn’t say I enjoy a local guided tour; I prefer to read up on specific details leisurely.

On one occasion, I paid for a guide at Kathmandu Durbar Square for a negotiated price. Everything was excellent. The guide walked me around and was very knowledgeable about the details of the temples and buildings. So, if you want to pay for a tour guide, many will appear at the entrance, negotiate a price, and enjoy the tour. If not, walk away.

Approaches from locals will happen when out and about.

Bartering in Kathmandu City

Bartering angers me wherever I go; I’m not too fond of it and try to avoid it, whether in Nepal, Southeast Asia or another destination. I am not particularly eager to do it to save a couple of dollars. Besides that, I don’t shop too often when I travel to buy a couple of souvenirs.

Bartering is a part of life when you visit Kathmandu, whether you purchase souvenirs or hiking clothes, take a taxi ride, or pay for a guide at the Kathmandu tourist attractions.

Generally, the rule of thumb is to divide the initial prices by around 50% and work from there. Remember, even if you’re no good at negotiating a fee, you’ll not be left shorthanded too much, so don’t stress about it.

Bartering is expected in the markets of Kathmandu.

The Many positives of my Kathmandu Trip

The period of pessimism and gloom has finally ended, and it’s time to shift our attention towards the brighter side of things. Kathmandu, the bustling capital city of Nepal, is a place teeming with countless opportunities and possibilities that are waiting to be explored and harnessed. So, instead of dwelling on the negatives, let’s seize the day and make the most of Kathmandu’s abundance of positivity.

The People of Nepal

Nepal is a country that offers a unique and incredible experience to anyone who visits. Despite the occasional bartering approach on the streets, the people of Nepal are generally hospitable, friendly, and welcoming. Engaging in conversations with the locals can be an enriching experience, whether unwinding at a bar, enjoying a meal at a restaurant, trekking through the mountains, or staying at a hotel.

You’ll recognise a foreigner’s face as you immerse yourself in the Nepalese culture and its vibrant atmosphere. These locals will soon become your regular chat buddies, exchanging stories and sharing laughs daily. They are hardworking individuals trying to make a living in challenging times, and their perseverance is admirable. Therefore, treating them respectfully and kindly is crucial as you navigate their city.

All smiles mingled with the locals of Nepal.

The UNESCO Kathmandu attractions

I love the culture, tradition, and historical buildings; they spoiled me with choices of places to visit in Kathmandu.

There are many fascinating sightseeing places in Kathmandu, with Temples, Stupas and Dubar Squares in many locations. Many people love to go to the top of Swayambhunath Stupa to capture a gorgeous sunrise or sunset.

I found the Pashupatinath Temple the most fascinating. Live cremations were performed over the Baghmati River, and crowds worshipped there daily.

However, the Bhaktapur, Patan and Kathmandu Durbar Square show classed the city’s authentic historical traditions with beautiful temples, structures, and relics throughout the main attraction area. You could also wander through the narrow backstreets and enjoy shopping and dining experiences.

Click here to enjoy a full day touring the Kathmandu Valley with Klook and visit beautiful attractions!

Travel to Kathmandu and witness culture and attractions at its very finest.

The Garden of Dreams

Nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Kathmandu lies a hidden gem: The Garden of Dreams. You’re transported to a world of peace and serenity as you step inside this tranquil sanctuary. The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and breathtaking water features are a feast for the senses, leaving you in awe of the beauty surrounding you.

The Garden of Dreams is a popular destination for locals and foreigners looking for a moment of respite from the chaos of city life. You can spend hours strolling through the gardens, admiring the intricate pavilions and beautifully landscaped paths. Or, if you prefer, you can sit on one of the many park benches and lose yourself in a good book.

When you need a break, head to the quaint café and indulge in a delicious meal or refreshing drink, while it may be pricier than your usual fare, the peaceful ambience and stunning surroundings make it worth every penny.

The Garden of Dreams is more than just a garden; it’s a haven for the soul and a place where you can escape the noise and bustle of the city and lose yourself in nature.

Enter into the Garden of Dreams in Kathmandu.

Visiting the mountains of Nepal

You don’t have to go too far to visit the mountains of Nepal or even see the Himalayas from a distance in Nagarkot. Many tours from Kathmandu will provide mountain bike riding, short treks, and even a sunrise tour over the mountains for an unforgettable Kathmandu sightseeing experience.

I will never forget my experience on a three-day Chisapani to Nagarkot trek. The Himalayan mountains followed for practically the duration of the hike. If there were little cloud coverage in the mornings, you would wake up to the most beautiful sunrise you could imagine.

If you want to be a little more luxurious, do less walking, and spend a bit more money, you can organise a scenic flight tour and see Mount Everest from above in the comfort of an aeroplane. This is much better than hiking for some people; from all reports, the trip is safe.

Click here to enjoy a sunrise tour in Nagarkot with Klook and be mesmerised by the Himalayas!

Tours in Nepal will include impressive mountains.

Relaxing with free WIFI in a Café in Kathmandu

When exploring new places, some travellers may not head straight to a café to indulge in a cup of rich cappuccino and a slice of sweet cake while sitting back and browsing the internet. Instead, they prefer to take the chance to catch up on their work and stay connected with their loved ones. This is something I also like to do in my free time, without having to stay confined to my hotel room.

Located in Kathmandu, the local cafes offer delicious coffee and food at affordable prices, with plenty of options available in the area. The Wi-Fi reception is also quite good, making it easy to stay connected with the rest of the world. After a hectic day of sightseeing, I love taking a caffeine boost and working on my phone or laptop in one of these cozy cafes.

Momos and Dal Bhat

During my visit to Nepal, one of the ultimate highlights was my experience at Helena’s Bar in Thamel. I vividly recall heading straight to the top of the rooftop bar, where I was greeted with a breathtaking view of the valley. As I sipped on a locally brewed beer, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment and peace as I watched the sun slowly set over the horizon. It was indeed a beautiful sight to behold.

But what made the experience even more special was the delicious food served at the bar. The momos, in particular, were outstanding—I tried the buffalo version, which was packed with flavour and spice. However, vegetarian and chicken options were also available for those who preferred them. I can still recall the taste of the juicy filling wrapped in the soft, doughy shell—it was simply delightful.

Aside from the momos, I also got to try the most famous Nepalese dish – Dal Bhat. This traditional meal was a hearty and fulfilling combination of lentil soup, rice, curried dishes, and a medley of vegetables and meat. I opted for the meat version, and I must say, it did not disappoint. The flavours were rich and complex, and I could taste the freshness of the ingredients used. If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, be sure to add Dal Bhat to your must-try list – it’s a dish you won’t soon forget!

A traditional Nepalese Dish Dal Bhat.

The Affordability of Kathmandu City

With all the Kathmandu tips and advice I have given you, Kathmandu City is an affordable place to travel at the end of the day. Most things are relatively cheap, whether restaurants, bars, shopping, massages, tours, accommodation, taxis and anything else.

If you want to catch a taxi to an attraction that is 60 minutes away, you’ll pay no more than ten dollars. If you find a cheap hotel in Kathmandu with a private room, you can pay as little as $10- $15 a night. You’ll also find affordable meals at Kathmandu restaurants for as little as a few dollars.

The most expensive part of your trip to Nepal will be the flights to Kathmandu. Otherwise, if you are wise and plan everything well enough, everything is pretty standard.

Conclusion of the Kathmandu Review

Nestled between the mighty Himalayas and the lush green forests of the Terai, Nepal is a unique and enchanting country that offers a myriad of attractions for tourists. From Mount Everest’s majestic peaks to Kathmandu’s bustling streets, there is something for everyone in this country.

Although Nepal, like any other destination, has its share of downsides, such as pollution and traffic, the positives of visiting far outweigh them. The vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality of the Nepalese people are just a few of the things that make this country a must-visit destination.

If you can look past the occasional quirks and challenges of travelling in Nepal, I highly recommend exploring Kathmandu and other parts of the country. So, why not plan your next adventure to this captivating destination and experience its beauty yourself?

Have you visited Kathmandu? What were your impressions of this vibrant city? We’d love to hear from you in the comments section below!

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Taking a stroll through Kathmandu Nepal.

When I first saw the Himalayan Mountains in Nepal, I knew then that I had fulfilled a bucket list desire and had ticked a bucket list item off.

From the outset, the mountains of Nepal did not let me down for one moment. How could they? The extraordinary Mountain Ranges were everything I had imagined they would be and so much more, especially for an ordinary West Aussie like myself who had not seen anything remotely like it previously. The holiday experience exceeded all expectations.

For once, I wasn’t staring at the picturesque mountains through footage on a television screen or a picture hanging from a wall in a house. This was very much real. I may not have trekked in the Himalayan Mountains, but I doubt my fitness levels would handle the rigours of a strenuous journey to the Everest Base Camp.

During my Nepal trip, I participated in the short Nagarkot Chispani trek. The picturesque mountains followed me throughout the entire three-day journey. I had never seen anything more extraordinary as the world’s finest natural attraction took centre stage.

The incredible mountains in Nepal.

Realising a dream to visit the Mountains in Nepal

The experience of visiting the majestic Himalayas in Mepal was nothing short of a dream. The breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountain range was awe-inspiring and left me in wonder. The fresh mountain air and the serene atmosphere added to the beauty of the place, making it an experience of a lifetime.

The Hype – Hiking in Nepal lives up to Expectations

There are times when you are looking forward to a trip and hope that it lives up to the high expectations set. At times, you can feel disappointed that the experience did not live up to the lofty standards. This was not the occasion. Trekking in Nepal is an adventure that everyone should have once in their life, and there are many Nepal trekking packages to suit a variety of fitness levels.

During my shortened expedition, I was fortunate to have a significant snowfall the night before I departed. That meant that on the first day of the trek, I was hiking through snow and loving every bit of it. That experience alone meant so much to me because seeing snow is rare. I truly appreciated slugging through the soft snow, letting any pain barriers pass me by while ascending the mountain.

Only an hour into the trek, the Langtang Himalayan Mountain Ranges came into full view. ” Unbelievable” is the word to best describe it. From then on, the mountains rarely left my sight throughout the trek, even seen from your accommodation window at both Chisapani and Nagarkot.

The snow was heavy on top, and the entire landscape of the mountains was gigantic. You could not even see where the mountain ranges began or ended; they just continued. Mount Everest was not even in the picture; that was much further away.

Naturally, you always looked forward to sunrise and only hoped the weather would be evident in the morning so you could see the sun climb over the mountains in Nepal. One out of two wasn’t bad because the morning was somewhat transparent on the first morning in Chisapani, and the sunrise was spectacular. It was less clear on the second morning in Nagarkot; for me, it didn’t matter; I had already been spoilt during the trek, witnessing with my own eyes the best of Nepal.

The sunrise from Chisapani.

The Best Bit of Seeing the Himalayan Mountains

The best part of the journey happened upon arriving at Nagarkot on the second night of the trek and staying at the fabulous Hotel Himalayan Villa, which included accommodation during the Nepal tour.

The hotel was a dream. From the reception area, when you walked through the bar and out on the large decking area, the Langtang Mountain ranges were again in full view. It was the ultimate spot to enjoy the Nepalese local Everest Beer, rather refreshing after walking 22 kilometres during an exhausting day.

It only improved when I got to my flash hotel room with a comfortable bed, cable television, and warm shower. Yeah, I was hardly roughing it, I know. However, from my private balcony, where the pigeons stationed themselves, the Himalayan Mountains were again in sight. Life was so good.

Undoubtedly, that night in Nagarkot, with the mountains, the beer, the buffet dinner, and relaxing in style after a heavy day of trekking, was the best part of the trip. The mountains in Nepal stayed with me through the afternoon and into the Nagarkot sunset. Unfortunately, the thickened cloud coverage during sunrise set my alarm for 6 a.m. to check it out. But I wasn’t about to complain about a minor setback.

A beer and the Nepal Himalaya. How good is that?

What’s Next! Now, the Nepal Trip is ticked off.

I am sure, along with other people’s travel bucket lists, that it can chop and change without notice. I know mine does.

It may change how you feel at that time when browsing through a range of tempting Holidays. You may be influenced by what you’ve read or seen in a travel magazine, or perhaps you have watched a travel documentary on television and thought, “that would be a cool place to visit.”

The following travel destinations I visit aren’t necessarily bucket list items, and in saying that, my next destination is unknown due to the spontaneous life of a travel blogger, with spur-of-the-moment adventures coming along without notice.

After the success of the mountains in Nepal, it’s a little unknown what will come next regarding bucket list specifics. Finances will play a part, although I dream of a tour through Italy or even an expedition to Antarctica to witness nature on another level. On the agenda may be realising a childhood dream of visiting the Great Wall of China or going on an African Safari in the Kruger National Park.

Whatever the outcome, what an incredible journey any of those adventures promises.

* Just a side note: all these pictures were taken during my trek in Nepal. 

All smiles on the Nepal trekking tour with a fantastic guide.

Tours in Nepal will include the fantastic mountains