Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is bowl shaped valley in a basin enclosed by chain of mountains. Eastern rim of the valley from Nagarkot to Kakani provides easily accessible and a quick approach to the mountain. The Himalayan view from Mt. Manaslu and Boudha Himal in the west to Everest Range and Gauri Shankar in the east can be seen throughout the trail. Langtang and Ganesh Himal dominates skyline on the north. On a clear day part of the range of Annapurna can be seen. The village dotted on the ridge and foothill of this section of the rim gives a bird eye view of diverse culture. The oak, pine and rhododendron forests give different view of the fast disappearing forest resource of Nepal.
Beside Dhulikhel, Nagarkot (2175m) is popular with tourist and local people alike. There are several tourist standards hotels that fit in with every budget. An overnight stay would allow you to see a memorable view of sunset and sunrise over the Himalayas. This ridge is linked with 32-km road with Kathmandu and Bhaktapur City is en-route. Following are some of the best day hikes and one day trek around Kathmandu.
- Nagarkot (2100m)Day Hike, the tower is at elevation of (2300m) - road access.
- Shivapuri Peak (2732m) Day Hike from Budhanilkantha.
- Phulchoki Hill (2790m) Day Hike from Godawari.
- Champa Devi (2285m) Day Hike from Pharping.
- Nagarjuna (2128m) Day Hike from Phulbaari Gate.
- Tarkeshwor Panchmane Kakani Day Hike (The newly introduced) from Kavreshthali.
- Namo Buddha Day Hike from Panauti or Dhulikhel.
- Chandragiri (2275m) Day Hike
Now, there is cable car to Chandragiri but still worth to walk up for the hiking passionate, you have option to hike up to the peak and you can take cable car for the way down according to your choice. The best moderate hike around Kathmandu valley is Shivapuri for it attractions and beauties such as s, dense forest, challenging walk up to summit that is around 1300 meter climbing, explore Nagi Gompa and feel the spiritual environment and join a butter tea or coffee with Buddhist nuns are awesome experience. If you seek for more challenging hike then I suggest Phulchoki Danda that is highest peak around Kathmandu valley while hiking to Nagarjuna is easy with moderate walking up.
