Kathmandu Valley Treks

Kathmandu Valley Trek

10 Days

Nepal Tour and Trek Packages

4.5 (2 Reviews)

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Kathmandu Total Experience Tour

10 Days

Nepal Tour and Trek Packages

5.0 (1 Reviews)

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18 Days: Himalayan Vistas In Nepal

18 Days

Nepal Tour and Trek Packages

4.3 (1 Reviews)

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Overview of Kathmandu Valley Treks

Kathmandu Valley is a capital city and getaway for trekking and touring in Nepal. Surrounded by the breathtaking Mahabharat Range and lush hills, the ancient valley dates back thousands of years. Three major cities within the Kathmandu Valley are Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. These three old cities have well-preserved heritages that reflect ancient history, architecture, and arts. There are numerous medieval temples, age-old monasteries, exquisite sculptures, and precious art. Due to their historical, cultural, and religious significance, seven heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Touring the Kathmandu Valley is your chance to experience yourself in the rich and diverse culture and traditions. The three ancient cities will take you back to medieval times. Additionally, you can also visit the vibrant markets, bustling streets, and narrow alleyways of Kathmandu. You can shop around at the local handicrafts and buy souvenirs to take back home for your loved ones. Likewise, you can try local cuisines like the popular and addictive momo (dumplings). Kathmandu is the most urban and largest city in Nepal. From sightseeing tours to short hikes and various outdoor activities, Kathmandu Valley offers many enriching experiences you do not want to miss!

Treks Around the Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley Trekking

Kathmandu Valley Trekking is an amazing journey that allows you to explore most of the city’s tourist destinations and surroundings. Ideal for travelers with limited time, the trek is suitable for everyone. During the trek, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath.

Kathmandu Valley Trekking

Similarly, you will trek to Chisapani, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Balthali. The trek offers gorgeous views of rice fields, traditional houses, and mountain panoramas. This trek is a perfect way to get a glimpse at the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of the Kathmandu Valley Treks.

Kathmandu Total Experience

Kathmandu Total Experience is an introductory tour allowing you to experience the best and most authentic Nepal. The itinerary includes sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, a short excursion to Pokhara, and a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park. During the valley’s sightseeing tour, you will visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Likewise, you will also take a tour of old royal palaces and other heritage sites. Then, you will head to Pokhara and take a short trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill and watch a breathtaking sunrise view with a majestic mountain panorama. Last but not least, you will head to Chitwan National Park for a one-hour jungle safari program.

Himalayan Vistas

Explore the mysterious Himalayas of Nepal and its vibrant culture with our 18 Days Himalayan Vistas. Guided by licensed and authentic local expertise, the tour takes you to unspoiled mountain villages, not often under tourists’ radar. As a result, you will get to explore the real rural side of the country. You will also take a sightseeing tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu. Then, you will head to the outskirts of Kathmandu, trek to traditional villages, and stay at rural homestays and lodges. The tour also allows you to participate in a development project for deaf children. The 18 Days Himalayan Vistas is a magical way to experience the Himalayas of Nepal and the warm hospitality of Nepalese.

Best Time for Kathmandu Valley Treks

Spring (March to May)

Spring season is one of the best times to visit Kathmandu Valley and participate in various outdoor activities. The days are sunny and warm with clear skies. Similarly, the daylights are longer, so you can enjoy touring at your own pace. The temperature is usually colder in early spring but slowly rises as the season progresses. The average temperature during spring is 10 to 27°C. There is minimal rainfall at this time of the year. Moreover, the rhododendrons, magnolias, and other wildflowers are in full bloom, enhancing the beauty of the surroundings.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another good time to visit the Kathmandu Valley. It is also peak season for trekking and touring in Nepal because of the stable and favorable weather conditions. The weather is mild, with crisp skies and sunny days. The average temperature in autumn ranges from 9 to 27°C. However, as the season progresses, the mornings and nights gradually become colder. The autumn season falls right after the monsoon season, so there is minimal rainfall. The wildflowers in the countryside are in full bloom, and you can enjoy the festive atmosphere while visiting Kathmandu Valley in autumn.

Food and Accommodation During Treks

When it comes to food in Kathmandu Valley, there is a huge variety of cuisines available. From local cuisines to foods from around the world, Kathmandu is a culinary delight. The national staple dish, Dal Bhat, which consists of rice, lentils, curried vegetables, and pickles, is available in almost all local restaurants. Since the valley is the native land of Newars, you can find a variety of Newari cuisines in traditional Newari restaurants.

While in Nepal, you cannot miss the most beloved food of Nepalese, momo (dumplings). There are wide varieties of momos available, and a little head up, it is pretty addictive. The best way to taste authentic Nepali cuisine is from local Nepali diners (Bhojanalayas), Chiyapasala (tea spots), and Bhatti (simple eateries). If you want to try international cuisines, there are also a variety of restaurants with cuisines from around the world.

Similarly, you will also find a variety of accommodations ranging from budget hostels to luxurious hotels and resorts. For a luxurious experience, you can stay at 5-star hotels like Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu Marriott Hotel, Hotel Yak & Yeti, etc. Guesthouses and hostels are also quite popular among budget travelers and backpackers. Meanwhile, if you want to experience the Nepali lifestyle, you can opt for homestays run by local families. Likewise, if you want to stay on the outskirts of the valley, there are beautiful resorts surrounded by nature.

What to pack for the Kathmandu Valley Trek?

Packing for the Kathmandu Valley Tour can be tricky, so here is a list of packing essentials for your visit:

Light T-shirts and shirts
Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
Warm sweaters and jackets
Thermal tops and bottoms
Warm gloves, hats, and scarves
Thick socks
Water bottle
Toiletries
Sunblock and sunglasses
Documents
Power bank and adapter
Guidebook, maps, and other personal items

FAQs

Why is Kathmandu called a valley?

Kathmandu sits within a large bowl-shaped basin surrounded by hills and mountains, so it is called a valley. Millions of years ago, Kathmandu Valley used to be a lake. The lake drained away but left fertile soil. Shivapuri, Chandragiri, Nagarjun, and Pulchowki hills surround the Kathmandu Valley.

What is the old name of Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has several old names: Kantipur, Kasthamandap, and Manju Patan. Kantipur is a historical name for the valley, which means “City of Light.” Similarly, the name Kasthamandap translates to “Wooden Pavilion” or “Wooden Shelter.” Manju Patan comes from the legend that Manjushri drained the ancient lake to create a valley.

Where is Kathmandu Valley located?

Kathmandu Valley is located in central Nepal, in Bagmati province. It is the capital city of Nepal. Kathmandu Valley sits at an altitude of 1400 meters above sea level. The Mahabharat Range surrounds the capital city to the south. Similarly, the Himalayas foothills surround the valley to the north.

Which region is Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and is located in the Bagmati Province and Central Development Region. The central region consists of three zones, i.e., Bagmati, Narayani, and Janakpur. Bagmati is the region’s headquarters.

What are the three cities of Kathmandu Valley?

The three cities of Kathmandu Valley are Kathmandu (Hanuman Dhoka), Patan, and Bhaktapur. These ancient cities house several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and the largest city among the three. Patan or Lalitpur lies south of Kathmandu, while Bhaktapur lies east of Kathmandu. Patan and Bhaktapur have many heritages that reflect Newari architecture, culture, and arts.

Which zone is Kathmandu Valley in?

Kathmandu Valley is in the Bagmati zone of the Central Development Region, which is the region’s biggest zone. As of 2015’s administrative restructuring, Nepal no longer has a zone system. Now, Kathmandu Valley is part of the Bagmati Province.

Was Kathmandu Valley a lake?

Yes, Kathmandu Valley was a lake long ago, known as Nagarjun Lake or Nagdaha in olden times. Geological and scientific evidence also suggests the valley was an enclosed lake around 2.8 million years ago. Hence, the soil in Kathmandu is fertile and great for agriculture.

Why is Kathmandu Valley famous?

Kathmandu Valley is famous not only because it is the capital city of Nepal but also because of its rich culture and heritage. There are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Similarly, it is a tourism hub and a gateway to trekking and touring Nepal. Likewise, the capital city is also the nation’s center for trade and politics.

Why is Kathmandu Valley known as the city of temples?

There are numerous temples, shrines, and monasteries in every corner of Kathmandu. Hence, Kathmandu Valley has earned the name of the city of temples. People from various ethnicities and religions live here harmoniously. Some major religious sites are Pashupatinath Temple, Chagunarayan Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), and Boudhanath Stupa.

What is the culture of Kathmandu Valley?

Kathmandu Valley has a rich cultural tapestry, but the major ones are Hinduism and Buddhism. The Newar people are the natives of the valley. Thus, you can see the influence of Newari culture, architecture, and arts in all three cities of the valley. Different ethnic groups have their own unique culture, traditions, languages, and customs. Hence, the Kathmandu Valley culture is very unique.

What are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Kathmandu Valley?

There are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley. They are Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Changunarayan Temple. These sites are scattered in the three cities of Kathmandu Valley, i.e., Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.

How old is the Kathmandu Valley?

According to geological evidence, the Kathmandu Valley was a large enclosed lake dating back to 2.8 million years. However, human settlement in the valley dates back to the early 300 BCE. Hence, according to geological evidence, Kathmandu Valley is millions of years old and thousands of years old according to historical evidence.

What is the festival of Kathmandu Valley?

Kathmandu Valley is a cultural hub of diverse ethnic communities and religions, but the three main festivals are Indra Jatra, Biska Jatra, and Rato Machindranath Jatra. These festivals are celebrated in the valley’s three cities, i.e., Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Other festivals celebrated in Kathmandu Valley are Dashain, Tihar, Maghe Sankranti, Holi, etc.

What language do they speak in Kathmandu?

The majority of the residents in Kathmandu speak the Nepali language. According to the 2011 census, 62% of the population spoke Nepali, 19% spoke Newari, 6% spoke Tamang, 3% Maithili, 2% Bojpuri, 2% Magar, 2% Gurung, and 1% Sherpa. Some part of the population also spoke the English language.

Which is the highest hill of Kathmandu Valley?

Pulchowki is the highest hill of Kathmandu Valley at an altitude of 2762 meters. It lies in the southeast direction of Kathmandu. Pulchowki is famous for its rich flora and fauna. Similarly, it is a popular and close gateway to the capital city. You can witness distant panoramic views of Himalayan peaks from the top of Pulchowki hill.

Kathmandu Valley Treks