The Kathmandu Valley Cultural Trekking Trail is the perfect short trek for those who do not have the time to venture further into the Himalayas. Pack light and head into the forest hills surrounding the valley rim for this culturally rich trek. Kathmandu Valley Cultural Trek displays the best of Nepal’s rural culture, biodiversity and stunning Himalayan views that can be enjoyed with simple preparation and minimal equipment. Kathmandu Valley Cultural Trek begins from Sundarijal, the entrance to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a watershed only 30 minutes drive from the centre of Kathmandu. Along the way you will be treated to pristine wilderness and diverse ethnic groups living in the unspoiled rural areas, encompassing Nepal’s most popular hill stations: Chisapani, Nagarkot, and Dhulikhel, where various categories of lodges and hotels are available.
The trail is a moderate no fuss trek, with distances lasting six to seven hours each day on mainly undulating terrain with a few long climbs. This is a low altitude trek which does not elevate to more than 2,500m and therefore should not create any problems with altitude related illnesses. You will need a good level of fitness and stamina to complete the full distance. The daily treks can be easily done in individual parts, a day or two at a time with the section(s) of your choice, or as a five day trek. The KVCTT trek can be attempted with or without a guide, as all you need is the itinerary and a good map. However, if you do not want to trek alone you can arrange for a guide or a trekking package from one of Kathmandu’s many registered trekking agencies. The rich tapestry of the cultural heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the Kathmandu valley as well as further closest religious and cultural destination. The ancient cities of the valley – Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, Kirtipur, Chovar and Daskhinkali represent an epitome of harmony in urban design, elegant architecture and refined culture. The three main historic cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur with numerous, old palaces and place squares, shrines and temples, angles traditions and legends make it a veritable living museum. The Kathmandu valley boasts seven World Heritage Sites UNESCO within a radius of just 20km.
Program Itinerary
Day 1: Sundarijal to Chisapani
uphill via Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entrance gate, Kolthupa, Mulkharka, Daurail, & Borlang Bhanjyang (2,500 m)
Trekking Time: 6 hours Distance: 16 km
Day 2: Chisapani to Nagarkot
via Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Dhap (wetlands area), Jhulay, Chauki Bhanjyang, Jarsingpouwa, & Naldum
Trekking Time: 7 hours Distance: 18 km
Day 3: Nagarkot to Dhulikhel
via Rohini Bhanjyang, Jal Jalay, Sashi Pani, Kashi Bhanjyang, Opi
Trekking Time: 7 hours Distance: 18 km
Day 4: Dhulikhel to Balthali
via Devisthan, Kavre Bhanjyang, Namobuddha, Balthali
Trekking Time: 7 hours Distance: 18 km
Day 5: Balthali to Panauti
Trekking Time: 3 hours Distance: 6 km
via Khopasi, and drive back to Kathmandu from Panauti
For More Information:
Nepal Visitors Travel Information Network.
P.O. Box :19760, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Tel :+977-1-5554471, 4263133, +9779841258665 (Mobile)
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: Nepal Trekking, Nepal Tours
