Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Tour Duration:  Approx. 8 hours

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast

9:00 AM: Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu Valley

Start your day with a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Explore the vibrant Kathmandu with our expert guides, who will share insights into the area’s rich history.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a historical royal complex with temples, palaces, and shrines dating back to the 15th century. Key attractions include Kumari Ghar (the house of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, built from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Next, head to Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple, a sacred site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Admire the stunning white dome and golden spire, while soaking in the serene atmosphere filled with incense and prayer wheels.

PM: Boudhanath Stupa

Visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a spiritual center for Tibetan culture, surrounded by prayer flags, monks, and devotees chanting ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’.

Pashupatinath Temple

Conclude your tour at the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, located along the Bagmati River. Here, you can witness profound spiritual rituals, including the moving sight of open-air cremations, which hold deep cultural significance. After immersing yourself in this sacred experience, you will transfer back to your hotel.

Altitude above sea level: 2,040m / 6,693 ft.
Driving duration: Approximately 1 hour
Hiking duration: Around 5 hours
Accommodation: The Club Himalaya or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After an early breakfast, the day begins with a drive to Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest temples in the Kathmandu Valley, dating back to the 4th century. This historic site is adorned with intricate and rare carvings in stone, wood, and metal—some of the finest craftsmanship found in the valley. As you explore, you’ll appreciate the detailed artwork and sculpture that represent centuries of culture, religion, and tradition rooted in the area.

Next, embark on a scenic day hike from Changu Narayan to Nagarkot. The trail takes you through peaceful Tamang and Newar villages, offering sweeping views of Bhaktapur, lush green hills, and distant snow-capped mountains. The hike from Changu Narayan to Telkot takes about 1.5 hours. From there, you’ll continue uphill toward Nagarkot, passing by landmarks like Jalpa Devi Temple and Peace Buddha Park along the way.

Upon arrival in Nagarkot, check in to your hotel and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. The highlight of the day is a breathtaking sunset view from the resort, with panoramic mountain views.

Altitude above sea level: 1,600 m / 5,249 ft.
Hiking duration: Approximately 7 hours
Accommodation: Dhulikhel Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Start your day early with a stunning sunrise from Nagarkot, offering spectacular mountain views of Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, Langtang, Everest, and other majestic peaks. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, begin your hike downhill through fragrant pine forests, lush paddy fields, and quaint villages, where you’ll observe local villagers engaged in their daily routines.

Arriving in Dhulikhel, this charming Newar town welcomes you with its traditional ambiance and breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. From various vantage points, soak in uninterrupted sights of the Langtang and Jugal Himalayan ranges, along with other snow-capped summits.

As you explore the ancient town, admire beautifully preserved Nepalese architecture, numerous fascinating temples, and vibrant Newari culture. This trek offers a deep dive into the region’s rich religious heritage and cultural atmosphere.

Altitude above sea level: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft
Hiking duration: Approximately 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Namo Buddha Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, embark on a scenic trek to Namobuddha. The trail winds through dense pine forests and passes several temples before reaching this revered ancient Buddhist pilgrimage site. Namobuddha is famously known as the place where Buddha Shakyamuni, in a legendary act of selflessness, sacrificed his own flesh to feed a starving tiger.

This spiritual journey immerses you in serene surroundings, lush green terraced farmlands, and vibrant local cultures. Along the way, enjoy stunning panoramic views of Gaurishankar and other majestic Himalayan peaks.

The return route takes you back to Balthali, passing through charming traditional villages and picturesque terraced fields, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Altitude above sea level: 1,600 m / 5,249 ft.
Hiking Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
Driving Time: Approx. 20 minutes
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Start your day with a scenic hike from the lower stupa through charming traditional villages surrounded by vibrant orange orchards and lush rhododendron forests. Experience authentic Nepalese rural life, spotting locals farming and children playing.

Next, drive to Panauti, a historic town at the sacred confluence of Roshi Khola and Punyamata Khola rivers. Famous for its earthquake-resistant foundation, Panauti boasts over 40 ancient temples, including the stunning Indreshwor Mahadev Temple, a masterpiece of Newari architecture.

Enjoy a warm cultural welcome with a traditional homestay experience and authentic Nepali lunch. Explore Panauti’s narrow cobbled streets, vibrant local markets, and visit the community museum to immerse yourself in rich Newari culture.

End your day with an interactive Nepali cooking class and overnight stay in a cozy homestay, perfect for an unforgettable cultural adventure.

Driving duration: 2 hours approx.
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

Start your day with a typical Nepali breakfast prepared by the host. After breakfast, the host family bid you farewell. Thereafter, take a drive back to Kathmandu. Check-in at the hotel and spend some time at leisure. You can spend your leisure time shopping for souvenirs for your beloved ones or simply relax after an exhausting but momentous trip.

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.