Kathmandu to Sundarijal, Trek to Chisapani, Nagarkot, and Changunarayan
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, Trek to Chisapani
Drive: Kathmandu (1,400m) -> Sundarijal (1,350m)
Trek: Sundarijal -> Chisapani (2,165m)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Not included
After breakfast at your 3-star hotel in Thamel, drive approximately one hour to Sundarijal, the starting point of the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek. After a short walk, enter Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, where permits are checked.
The trail steadily ascends through forested paths and stone staircases, passing Mulkharka village, where you can stop for lunch or refreshments. Continuing through dense jungle scenery, you arrive at Chisapani, famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. From here, enjoy panoramic vistas of Gaurishankar, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and surrounding peaks.
Day 2: Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot
Trek: Chisapani (2,165m) -> Nagarkot (2,175m)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Distance: 22.5 km
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast
Today's trek continues through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, an area rich in biodiversity. While larger wildlife such as leopards and Himalayan black bears are rare sightings, you may encounter smaller animals like mongooses, jungle cats, porcupines, and a wide variety of bird species, making this day especially rewarding for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Lunch is taken en route at Chauki Bhanjyang or Jhule before continuing toward Nagarkot. As you approach, the Himalayan range gradually comes into view, especially at sunset. In the evening, enjoy the mountain scenery from one of Nagarkot's viewpoints before settling into your hotel.
Day 3: Trek from Nagarkot to Changunarayan, Drive Back to Kathmandu
Trek: Nagarkot (2,175m) -> Changunarayan (1,600m)
Drive: Changunarayan -> Kathmandu (1,400m)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance: 15.5 km
Meals: Breakfast
Early morning in Nagarkot offers one of the most memorable moments of the trek. On a clear day, witness sunrise views over eight Himalayan mountain ranges, including distant views of Mount Everest. After breakfast, begin a mostly downhill hike toward Changunarayan Temple.
Changunarayan is the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the temple complex and the nearby living museum, which provides valuable insight into Newari art, culture, and history. After sightseeing, drive back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your Chisapani Nagarkot Trek with Marvel Treks.
