Chisapani Hike: Route, Distance & Trail from Kathmandu

The Chisapani Hike is a perfect short escape into nature, located on the tranquil northeastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley. Just a short drive from the capital, this two-day trek offers a refreshing break from the city’s hustle and bustle, leading hikers into the tranquil landscapes of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. This park is a protected area known for its dense forests, rich biodiversity, and peaceful atmosphere. 

The journey to Chisapani near Kathmandu begins at Sundarijal, a scenic village and popular starting point for many short treks. Here, you’ll walk past natural streams and cascading waterfalls, where the Shyalmati and Nagmati rivers flow together before merging with the Bagmati River. The trail steadily climbs through subtropical forests filled with oak, pine, and blooming rhododendron trees. As you ascend deeper into Shivapuri National Park, occasional clearings offer panoramic views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa mountain ranges. Eventually, the trail leads to Chisapani, a peaceful hilltop village nestled at an elevation of approximately 2,430 meters (7,972 feet). The name “Chisapani” literally means “cold water,” reflecting the area’s crisp climate and clean mountain air. From this vantage point, trekkers are treated to breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the snow-capped Himalayas. This makes it a favorite spot for photographers, nature lovers, and weekend adventurers alike.

Highlights of the Chisapani Hike

• Traverse the protected landscapes of Shivapuri National Park, home to diverse flora, unique orchids, and a variety of bird species.
• Begin your journey in the scenic village of Sundarijal, where streams and waterfalls feed the Shyalmati and Nagmati rivers before they join the sacred Bagmati River.
• Pass by the area of the Dhap Dam Chisapani, part of the region’s important water management system.
• Walk through Mulkharka, a traditional Tamang and Newar village, offering a glimpse into authentic rural life.
• Reach Chisapani and enjoy panoramic views of the Langtang Range, Annapurna, Gauri Shankar, and Dorje Lhakpa, with a chance to see Mount Everest on clear days.
• Use Chisapani as a gateway for longer adventures such as the Helambu trek, Langtang Valley trek, Gosaikunda trek, or the scenic Chisapani to Nagarkot route.

Start Point for Hike to Chisapani

The Chisapani hike begins from Sundarijal, a peaceful village located about a 1.5-hour drive from Kathmandu. This charming starting point lies on the edge of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and gradually ascends through the traditional village of Mulkharka. The total Chisapani hike distance from Sundarijal is approximately 12 kilometers. It usually takes 4–5 hours to complete on the first day. The Chisapani hike difficulty is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners with average fitness levels, though it includes uphill climbs and stone steps. The route to Chisapani Hilltop, located at an approximate height of 2,215 to 2,430 meters, offers cool air, tranquil landscapes, and panoramic Himalayan views, making it a perfect short escape from the city.

Accommodation at Chisapani 

Chisapani is a popular overnight stop on short treks near Kathmandu. It offers a modest but comfortable range of teahouses and guesthouses. While not luxurious, these lodgings provide all the essential amenities needed for a relaxing night after a day of hiking. 

Types of Accommodation

Teahouses and Local Lodges: Most accommodations in Chisapani are family-run teahouses or small guesthouses. These are traditional-style lodgings, similar to those found along other trekking routes in Nepal. 

Room Types: Rooms are usually basic with twin beds, clean sheets, and warm blankets. Some guesthouses also offer rooms with attached bathrooms, though shared bathrooms are more common.

Essential Packing List for Chisapani Hike(2 Days)

Packing smart is key to enjoying your short trek to Chisapani, a scenic hill station just outside Kathmandu. Though it’s only a two-day hike, the trail passes through varying elevations and weather conditions—ranging from warm valley sun to cool, misty forests. Whether you’re trekking in spring, monsoon, or fall, having the right gear ensures comfort, safety, and a more enjoyable experience.

• Comfortable hiking shoes with a good grip
• Layers of clothing (temperatures can vary significantly)
• Rain gear (especially during monsoon season)
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Basic first aid kit
• Water bottle and water purification tablets
• Hiking poles (optional but helpful for steep sections)
• A camera for capturing the stunning views

2-Day Chisapani Hike  Trek Price

The Chisapani Hike stands out as a perfect short trek from the bustling heart of Kathmandu, meticulously designed for travelers who have limited time but a strong desire to immerse themselves in nature, wander through enchanting forest trails, and witness inspiring Himalayan vistas. This wonderful 2-day Chisapani hike is not only rich in experience but also offers excellent value, with pricing structured to accommodate both solo adventurers and small groups.

Our pricing for this accessible adventure is as follows:

Permits and Necessary documents

Although the Chisapani hike is relatively short and close to Kathmandu, it passes through a protected area, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. It requires specific permits for entry. 

• Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Entry Permit

To hike to Chisapani, all trekkers are required to obtain the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Entry Permit. This permit can be conveniently obtained either at the park entrance gate in Sundarijal or in advance from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. The entry fee is NPR 1,000 for foreign nationals, NPR 150 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepali citizens. It’s important to carry the permit with you at all times, as there are checkpoints along the trail where you may be asked to present it.

• Personal Identification
  • Carry a valid passport (for foreigners) or a citizenship card (for Nepalis)
  • A photocopy of your passport and visa is also useful, especially if obtaining permits in advance
  • If you’re with a guide or agency, they usually help handle permit arrangements

Health & Safety on the Trail

While the Chisapani hike is considered safe and relatively low-risk, it’s still important to be mindful of basic health and safety practices on the trail. From drinking clean water to managing minor altitude changes and avoiding insect bites, a few simple precautions can make your trek much more enjoyable and worry-free. Below are key tips to help you stay healthy and safe during your 2-day hike.

Water: Either buy sealed bottled water (less eco-friendly) or use purification tablets/drops or a filter.

Food Safety: You must be careful and eat at established teahouses. Dal Bhat is generally the safest and freshest option. Be cautious with uncooked salads or unpeeled fruits if you have a sensitive stomach.

Altitude Sickness: Chisapani is at approximately 2,430m. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is generally not a major concern at this altitude for most healthy individuals. However, ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.

Leeches & Insects: During the monsoon (and sometimes just after), leeches can be present on the trail. Wear long trousers tucked into socks, and carry salt or a lighter to remove them if necessary. Insect repellent can be useful.

First Aid: Carry a personal first-aid kit for minor injuries. Guides (if you hire one) will also carry a more comprehensive kit.

Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency numbers and inform someone of your hiking plans.

Staying Connected: Connectivity & Power

Mobile Network: Network coverage (NTC and Ncell) is generally available for much of the Sundarijal to Chisapani hike, especially in Sundarijal and Mulkharka. In Chisapani itself, coverage can be decent but may vary depending on your provider and the exact location of the teahouse. Don’t expect high-speed data everywhere; it can be patchy in dense forest sections.

Charging Facilities: Most teahouses in Chisapani offer charging facilities for electronics (mobiles, cameras) for a small fee (e.g., NPR 100-300 per device). Electricity supply can be unreliable (often solar), so charge your devices when you get the chance. A power bank is a very useful item to bring.

The Best Time for Your Chisapani Hike

The hike to Chisapani is accessible year-round, but each season offers a different experience. The best time to visit Chisapani, Nepal, is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. These months come with clear skies and stunning mountain views. During winter, it gets very cold, especially at night and in the mornings, in Chisapani, so you can avoid visiting in winter. Likewise, heavy rainfall during summer makes it more challenging to hike Chisapani.

Trekking Responsibly: Leave No Trace Principles

Trekking isn’t just about enjoying nature, it’s also protecting it. As a visitor to Nepal’s beautiful trails like Chisapani, it’s important to hike responsibly and minimize your environmental impact. Following the Leave No Trace principles helps preserve the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the area for future generations. Below are simple yet essential guidelines every trekker should follow to travel more thoughtfully and sustainably.

• Carry Out What You Carry In: Do not litter. Pack out all your trash, including wrappers and plastic bottles. 
• Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly (especially when passing through villages), ask for permission before taking photos of people, and be mindful of local customs.
• Support Local Economy: Buy local products and stay in local teahouses to support the communities along the trail.
• Stay on the Trail: Avoid shortcutting, which can cause erosion.

Beyond Chisapani: Popular Extensions & Nearby Attractions

Chisapani is also the gateway from which you can start other treks. From here, well-trodden trails lead to stunning locations like Nagarkot, Dhap Dam, and Helambu, offering trekkers the opportunity to extend their journey deeper into Nepal’s diverse landscapes. That makes Chisapani the perfect starting point for exploring even more of the Himalayas.

3-Days Chisapani to Nagarkot Trek

The Chisapani to Nagarkot Trek is a day popular extension to Chisapani Hike. After a night in Chisapani, you can trek further to Nagarkot (another 5-7 hours), famous for its even more expansive Himalayan sunrise and sunset views, including Everest on exceptionally clear days. This is a very popular short trek near Kathmandu. With just a day added to your itinerary, you can enjoy the fullest. 

Short 3-Day Chisapani to Nagarkot Itinerary:

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal → Trek to Chisapani (overnight stay)

Day 2: Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot (overnight stay in a view hotel)

Day 3: Enjoy sunrise → Drive back to Kathmandu or continue trekking toward Dhulikhel or Namo Buddha

Dhap Dam Chisapani Area

Located within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, the Dhap Dam is a significant water reservoir project designed to improve water supply to the Kathmandu Valley. While it’s not directly on the main Sundarijal–Chisapani trekking route, there are alternative trails or local side hikes that offer access or viewpoints of this area from Chisapani. This area is a great addition for those interested in sustainable development, hydrology, or simply exploring less-travelled paths in the park. Some lodges in Chisapani may offer guided walks or local advice on reaching Dhap Dam viewpoints.

Suggested Add-On:

• On day 2 of the Chisapani hike, after a night in Chisapani, take a local side hike toward the Dhap Dam area and return by afternoon.
• Combine with the Nagarkot extension for a varied trekking experience.

Helambu Trek via Chisapani

Chisapani is also a classic starting point for the Helambu Trek, a moderate multi-day circuit through Tamang and Sherpa villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests. This route is perfect for trekkers who want an immersive cultural experience without the high altitudes of the Annapurna or Everest regions. 

Route Highlights:

The Helambu trek trail winds through Gul Bhanjyang, Tharepati, and eventually to Melamchi Gaon and Tarkeghyang, showcasing local monasteries, traditional lifestyles, and occasional mountain views.

8 days Helambu Trek Itinerary:

Day 1: Arriving at Kathmandu

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, then trek to Chisapani (2300 m)

Day 3: Chisapani to Kutumsang (2446 m)

Day 4: Kutumsang to Thadepati (3650 m)

Day 5: Thadepati to Tarkeghyang (2560 m)

Day 6: Trek to Sermathang (2610 m)

Day 7: Sermanthang to Melamchi Bazar and drive back to Kathmandu

The 8-day Helambu Trek is ideal if you want to explore authentic villages and alpine scenery without needing to fly or go too far from the capital.