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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,202 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Advanced (Diamond)
Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Kathmandu to Chisapani

Kathmandu to Chisapani Hike
Measurement:

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Table of contents

A small hill station in the northern outskirts of Kathmandu, Chisapani offers stunning views of lush green hills, deep valleys, and snow-capped mountain peaks. Chisapani literally translates to “cold water” in Nepali. It lies in the Shivapuri National Park and is also the gateway to the Langtang-Gosainkunda trekking region. The hike to Chisapani begins in Sundarijal, a small village southeast of Kathmandu, which is home to numerous waterfalls.

Route Description for Kathmandu to Chisapani

To get to Sundarijal, take a bus from Ratna Park Bus Stop and drive about 17.0 km. Start early to avoid traffic on the main road. The ride gets bumpier and dusty as you hit the unpaved roads following Boudha. After reaching Naya Pati Bus Stop, the road ends and the trail begins. If you need to stock up on any supplies, you can purchase last-minute items in the small market at the bus stop, though the quality varies.

While this route is shown as a return journey, some hikers do this over two days, spending a night in Chisapani. If you intend to merely go one way, we suggest getting a Jeep to Chisapani and walking back.

A large pipe carrying water to Kathmandu flanks the concrete steps for the first 100 m before the trail, edged by trees, gradually climbs uphill. Pass by small houses and say hi to the smiling locals as they wave and wish you luck. Just beyond the houses, you’ll see a waterfall cascade over a huge boulder. After walking for almost 1.6 km, you’ll climb up the stairs to the Sundarijal reservoir, where your first army checkpoint awaits. Here you can purchase your permits for the National Park area.

The trail becomes steeper from the checkpoint until you reach the end of the first climb for views of the classic Nepali countryside. From here, the trail is all uphill and passes by a few thatch-roofed homes of the Tamang and Newar people. You’ll be able to see grains drying in the courtyards, as well as bundles of garlic and corn, hung from the roofs. After walking for another 1 km, gaining an elevation of 250 m, you’ll reach Mulkharka. Like other settlements of Nepal, Mulkharka is a beautiful blend of different ethnic groups. Given the fact that Mulkhara is the last community on the trail to Chisapani, it is an ideal place to take a rest and have lunch. Mulkharka offers a few small tea shops and cafes serving delicious Nepali cuisine: dal bhat, momos, and many others. Enjoy your lunch with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and Kathmandu Valley.

Leaving Mulkharka, the trail transitions into a narrow single track hedged by dense forest. Since there aren’t any opportunities for refreshments until you reach Chisapani, it is a smart idea to fill up your water bottles and load up on any snacks you might want in Mulkharka. This section of the trail is quite peaceful, making it a perfect time to get lost in your thoughts. Take your time on the steep trail—it has an elevation gain of 480 m—to Burlang Bhanjyang. Walk slow and take occasional breaks to catch your breath. After reaching Burlang Bhanjyang at 2,427.0 km, reward yourself with the outstanding sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks of Langtang Himal, Dorje Lhakpa, and Gauri Shankar, to name a few.

From Burlang Bhanjyang, it is a 300 m descent to Chisapani. Although the walk to Chisapani from Bhanjyang is almost 3.0 km, it will take you about 30-45 minutes. Chisapani is home to an abundance of lodging options. If you’re here during peak season, be sure to book your accommodation in advance. If you’re up for a little more walking, there’s a dhaap (small pond) worth checking out, southeast of Chisapani on the way to Nagarkot.

You can decide to stay in Chisapani for the night to catch the incredible sunset and next-morning sunrise. Though if you’re short on time, grab a quick bite to eat (noodle soup!) before making your way back along the same path you took from Sundarijal. Once back in Sundarijal, board the bus at the designated stop return to Kathmandu.

Insider Hints for Kathmandu to Chisapani

  • Check out our hiking route from Chisapani to Nagarkot and make it a 2-day hike!
  • Buy some drinks and snacks at Mulkharka. There won’t be any shops along the way right until you reach Chisipani.

Getting to the Kathmandu to Chisapani Trailhead

Get a bus (or taxi) from Ratna Park Bus Stop in Kathmandu and go to Sundarijal.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    March to May and September to November

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Kathmandu to Chisapani Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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