Top 9 destinations around Kathmandu Valley

Published: 22 Nov 2022   |   Last updated: 22 Nov 2022

Kathmandu is blessed with the most beautiful creation of nature. Surrounded by the majestic scene of the Himalayas, mesmerizing beauty of the scenic hilltop stations, and the enthralling environment, the traveling experience in the places of Kathmandu is an unbeatable experience. 

 

Check the top 9 destinations around Kathmandu Valley to binge your time.

 

1. Nagarkot

 

Nagarkot, one of the most beautiful places in the Bhaktapur district, is located just 32 kilometers away from Kathmandu.  The place is very well known for its breathtaking sunrise view with the Himalayas surrounding the place. 

 

Nagarkot has been very famous for a long time being one of the best spots to offer a view of Mt. Everest and other snow-capped peaks of the eastern region. You can also enjoy the view of the beautiful and religious Indrawati River to the east of the valley. 

 

The place stands at an elevation of 2,195 meters, catering to a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. If you are a trekking enthusiast, you can also take some short treks or hike in this region. A short hike in the green forests and surrounding outskirts in Nagarkot is a unique experience. 

 

Nagarkot Details
Things to Do Nature Strolling with Sunrise and Mountain View
Trip Duration 1-2 days
Weather Cold in winter and not too hot in summer
Ideal For Families, Friends, Picnic
Best Time to Visit October to April
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and cars
Distance from Kathmandu 26.9 km away


  1. Chovar

 

Chovar is an attractive hill located on the outskirt of the Kathmandu Valley. On the way to Dakshinkali, Chovar is popular for the scenic views it provides from its top. The place is equally famous among international as well as local visitors.

 

The place is the best option for those who seek a day excursion from the hectic and busy schedule of daily life. You can visit the Chobhar Gorge and Jal Vinayak Temple in the area, which can be a place to spend your time. 

 

Chovar carries a huge bag of history. People explain that a Buddhist deity named Manjushri cut the hill of Chovar into two halves with a mighty sword that let out the water of a lake and opened the fertile vale for habitation, current Kathmandu.

Chovar Details
Things to Do Sightseeing
Trip Duration 1-2 days
Weather Any season
Ideal For Families, Friends, Picnic
Best Time to Visit October to April
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and cars
Distance from Kathmandu 9.2 km away



  1. Bhaktapur

Just a few minute's drive from Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is situated within the confines of Kathmandu Valley. The place known as a medieval city contains many locations that are culturally and historically rich.

 

The city that was once famous for its magnificent craftwork, culture, and heritage has still preserved the cultural sites. The place is still the main spot of attraction for all archeological enthusiasts. 

 

Bhaktapur Details
Things to Do Stroll around heritages
Trip Duration 1 day
Weather Cold in Winter
Ideal For Families, Friends, Picnic
Best Time to Visit Any season
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and cars
Distance from Kathmandu 16.1 km



  1. Chisapani

Chisapani is a perfect place for adventure geeks. You can go from exploring the places to a  short trek to enjoy the magnificent beauty of the place which can be the best adventure for a short trip. With this, you can also explore the variety of flora and fauna in the place.

 

The place also offers you a panoramic view of mountains and luscious landscape making you feel like you are in a dreamland. The place is inside the Shivapuri National Park, a subtropical forest region that lets you enjoy some waterfalls.

 

Chisapani is an ideal place most of the visitors choose to hike around the Kathmandu Valley which takes you to a new land just within 1.5 hours of hike. The land is at an altitude of 2215 meters. 

 

Chisapani Details
Things to Do Hike and Stroll
Trip Duration 1-2 days
Weather Cold in winter and not too hot in summer
Ideal For Friends, and Picnic
Best Time to Visit February to mid-June, September to November
Transportation Private Vechiles
Distance from Kathmandu 20.5 km away



  1. Dhulikhel

Dhulikhel is situated at an elevation of 1550m. The place is named one of the most beautiful places in Nepal. You must visit this place once in a lifetime if you are interested to explore Himalayan panoramas. 

You get the opportunity to have glimpses of Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Numbur from this place. This less crowded town offers you to gather many unforgettable memories from your short stay at the place.

 

Dhulikhel Details
Things to Do Trekking; Nature strolling
Trip Duration 1-2 days
Weather Cold in winter and not too hot in summer
Ideal For March to May, February to September
Best Time to Visit October to April
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and cars
Distance from Kathmandu 31.2km away



  1. Kakani

Kakani is named the home of the Tamang people. The place is the ultimate destination if you are planning an outing with your family. It is situated just above 2073m above sea level.

You can enjoy the magnificent view of the Dhaulagiri ranges, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna from the place. In winter, the place offers spectacular views of the snow-covered mountains. If you are lucky, you can also get a chance to experience skiing after a snowfall in winter.

 

Kakani Details
Things to Do Skiing; Picnic; Sightseeing
Trip Duration 1-2 days
Weather Any season
Ideal For Families, Friends, Picnic
Best Time to Visit October to April
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and cars
Distance from Kathmandu 23.7 km away



  1. Namo Buddha

One of the most famous pilgrimage places of Buddhists is Namo Buddha. It is located 40 km from Kathmandu, which is little much travel from the place. 

 

Namo Buddha is also known for being home to more than 250 young monks. The Tharangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery is the best place to witness morning and evening prayers. The monastery is usually open to the general public on Saturdays.

 

 The unique architecture and peaceful ambiance of the place are much famous for bringing relaxation and peace to most weary souls. The place also offers hiking.

Namo Buddha Details
Things to Do Strolling
Trip Duration 1 day
Weather Cold in Winter
Ideal For Families, Friends, Picnic
Best Time to Visit March and April, October
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and cars
Distance from Kathmandu 42.3km



  1. Lakuri Bhanjyang

 

If you are looking for some thrilling adventure near Kathmandu and that too in a very short time, the place is the best fit for you. Lakuri Bhanjyang has located just 15 km from Kathmandu.

 

The place has brought a perfect session of Paragliding for all the adventure chunks in a place near Kathmandu. The beautiful hill station also offers trails for trekking purposes with spectacular views of the mountain ranges around it.

 

Lakuri Bhangang has become one of the top places to visit near Kathmandu due to its serene beauty and natural abundance. The place is best to travel with your families, friends, or loved ones.

 

Lakuri Bhanjyang Details
Things to Do Trekking; Paragliding; Picnic; Sightseeing
Trip Duration 1-2 days
Weather Any season
Ideal For Families, Friends, Picnic
Best Time to Visit October to April
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and cars
Distance from Kathmandu 9.2 km away




  1. Kulekhani

Kulekhani has been a famous place recently. The place is a very famous hydropower dam that offers ultimate opportunities from boating, and swimming to staying overnight in its lake-like environment. 

The magnanimous serenity, enchanting rivers, luscious landscapes, and beautiful waterfalls are also famous to explore around the place. A few kilometers farther from the place lies Chitlang, which can be an overnight stay destination with your friends. 

 

Kulekhani Details
Things to Do Boating, Swimming, Strolling
Trip Duration 2-3 days
Weather Cold in winter and not too hot in summer
Ideal For Families, and Friends
Best Time to Visit October to April
Transportation Public buses, taxis, and Jeeps
Distance from Kathmandu 46.8 km away

 

Conclusion

Besides, Kathmandu offers thousands of other places to enjoy your short stay. With a few hour's drive or walk, you can find multiple destinations to enjoy your time. Enjoy your valuable time with Nepal Vision Treks and experience the collage of wonderful places near Kathmandu which will bring unforgettable memories to your life. 

FAQs



  1. Is It safe to travel to Kathmandu after the pandemic?

Make sure you follow all the rules and regulations that are provided by the government for safe travel. A minimum of 42 hours before your departure, get tested and don't forget to bring your negative RT PCR report with you. Avoid going to social and religious gatherings and crowded areas.




  1. What are some places outside Kathmandu to travel to?

The most well-liked tourist destinations close to Kathmandu are as follows:

  1. Pokhara is the best destination for spending holidays.
  2. Janakpur is a significant Mithila kingdom with unique architecture.
  3. Mustang is the forbidden valley offering majestic views.
  4. Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. 



  1.  How far is Kathmandu from Nagarkot?

Nagarkot is situated just 32 kilometers away from Kathmandu. You should travel by road to get here, the northern side of Kathmandu Valley. 



  1.  What is Nepalese cuisine famous for?

The Nepalese dish ‘Daal Bhat Tarkari’ is a very widely consumed dish. Some additional dishes like Dhido, Achaar, Chiura, Bara, Curd, Bhakka, and many others are famous. The delicious recipes with local and regional ingredients and distinct flavors make it unique and famed.



  1. Can anyone go to Namo Buddha?

On Saturdays, Namo Budha is accessible to the public. On regular days, you are welcome to visit, but you must first get permission as it is a very significant tourist destination for Buddhists.



  1. What are the main attractions of Kathmandu?

The main tourist destinations in Kathmandu are as follows:



  1. Do Indians need a passport to travel to Nepal?

If you are from India, you can travel to Nepal without a passport if you have a valid form of identification, such as a voter card, an Aadhaar card, or even a PAN card. 




  1. Is Nepal expensive to travel to?

No, Nepal is not expensive. If you want to travel with a small budget, you get your wish fulfilled. The option from fooding and clothing to all the services can be chosen as per your choice. 



  1. What is Nepal famous for?

Nepal is mostly known for being home to hundreds of snow-capped mountains. The highest peak in the world, Mount Everest is located in Nepal. Besides, Nepal is known for its beauty, culture, and uniqueness.



  1. What is Kathmandu famous for?

Kathmandu,  the capital city of Nepal is known for its culture, religion, heritage sites, and places to spend time.