Chisapani Nagarkot Day hike

The Chisapani Nagarkot Day Hike is amongst some of the well-known close-to-Kathmandu Valley trekking packages, mingled with natural and cultural exploration. The track initiates at Sundarijal, a smaller village situated 15 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu, and is reachable by bus and taxi. On one side, this track has passed through Shivapuri National Park, considered to be an ecological nirvana because of the rich biodiversities found herein. First comes the stop of Chisapani, offering panoramic Himalayan mountain vistas: Mt. Everest, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Manaslu, Sisapangba, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal. This place in quiet really prepares the mood of the rest of the hike because it drapes the trekker with the mightiest beauty of Himalayas.

It is rich in flora and fauna, as there are 177 species of birds, 102 species of butterflies, and 129 species of mushrooms. Some of the mammals which have been found in this park include the Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, and rhesus monkey. Threatened species, including the Assamese monkey, clouded leopard, leopard cat, and pangolin, also find shelter in these forests. The avid bird watcher might be able to spot at least nine threatened bird species, in addition to many rare and endangered butterflies. One of the first protected areas for conservation, it seeks to conserve critical wildlife, take care of ecosystem/biodiversity for the mid-hills, ensure watershed sustainability linking local rivers and streams, enhancing people’s livelihoods around the park area.

The Chisapani Nagarkot Day Hike is approximately 12 to 15 km and takes about 7 to 8 hours, depending on route variation and the speed of the trekker with regard to physical fitness. After one enjoys the natural beauty of Chisapani, the trek leads to Nagarkot, which is a famous hill station at an altitude of 2,175 meters. Nagarkot is renowned for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayan range. The highlight of the trek is that from Nagarkot Tower, a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes, picturesque valleys, and awe-inspiring mountains are viewed.

This is a moderately graded hike, and it should fit all trekkers looking for adventure mixed with some Himalayan exploration within one day. It is advisable for trekkers to bring enough water and snacks to sustain them in the trail, wear proper clothes and shoes, and either join a tour group or hire a guide. It is best to go on this trek during spring or autumn, as the sky normally remains clear, having an environment fresh with colors and fragrances of the wildflowers in bloom. This trek is the best time to observe the virgin beauty of the Himalayas and the tranquility of Nepal’s nature, thus making the journey memorable for both adventurers and nature lovers.