Chisapani Nagarkot Hike - 3 Days

Best time to hike Chisapani, and Nagarkot

You can plan the Chisapani and Nagarkot trek at any time during the year. If you want the absolute best experience on the trail, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the prime seasons to go. Autumn delivers crisp, fresh air right after the monsoon rains clear, offering crystal-clear mountain visibility. Meanwhile, spring transforms the forest into a vibrant landscape where local flora and fauna cover the landscape in different shades of hues. Both seasons guarantee dry trails and magnificent, unobstructed views of the peaks.

On the other hand, we usually advise travelers to skip this rainy window because the paths become heavily muddy, and thick cloud cover blocks out the Himalayan mountain views. On the flip side, winter brings stable conditions since the route stays at a safe, lower elevation. While winter days are wonderfully sunny, temperatures drop significantly after sunset, making the evenings quite chilly.

How Difficult is Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking?

The Chisapani Nagarkot trek is classified as easy-to-moderate, making it a fantastic choice for beginners with an average fitness level who want a genuine Himalayan walking experience. You can expect around 5 to 7 hours of walking each day across various terrain. The most physically demanding section comes right at the start on the first day, where you climb the long stone staircase leading from Sundarijal up into Shivapuri National Park. Even so, you can comfortably manage your pace here, and the shaded forested trails provide plenty of cool spots to catch your breath and rest.

As you trek, the trail offers a mix of hiking, scrambling rocky ups and downs, uneven dirt paths, and more. While it can be extremely tiring at times–especially on the final climb up to the Nagarkot viewpoint–it’s nothing that a fit hiker can’t manage. The summit of Nagarkot is the trail’s highest point at 2,175 meters (7,136 feet) above sea level. This makes for a less strenuous hike than most Himalayan treks.

How should you prepare for the trek?

Even though the 3-Day Chisapani Nagarkot Hike is a gentle, low-altitude route that avoids the intense physical demands of grueling high-altitude trek, you are still stepping into a new environment with unique trails and local customs. So, taking a little time to get ready before you fly out makes all the difference. Here is how you can set yourself up for a memorable experience:

• Build your baseline endurance and stamina by mixing in light cardio workouts like regular jogging, and cycling.
• Incorporate strength movements into your routine that focus specifically on your legs and core, which helps tremendously when walking up and down stone staircases on the trail.
• Pack snacks such as energy bars, a mix of nuts, and fresh fruits to keep your fuel levels up during the day.
• Check the local weather outlook before heading out, and always pack a mix of comfortable warm clothing layers alongside reliable waterproof outerwear.
• Bring along a compact personal first aid kit stocked with essentials like bandages, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, blister care, and any daily personal medications you might need.

Will I Get Altitude Sickness on Chisapani Nagarkot Trek?

Getting altitude sickness on this route is quite rare since the highest elevation peaks at 2,175 meters. Even so, mild symptoms triggered by lower oxygen levels—such as mild headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath can technically affect anyone regardless of age or fitness. If anyone experiences acute mountain sickness symptoms along the way, our experienced guides are right there to step in and assist with all necessary safety measures.

What are the tips for a safe and enhanced experience?

• Drink plenty of fluids and use safe, purified or boiled water while avoiding untreated natural sources.
• Remain mindful of your physical condition and maintain a steady walking pace, and take plenty of rest along the way to avoid over-exhausting your body.
• Carry a dependable trail map or offline navigation tool alongside emergency contact numbers.
• Protect local wildlife and habitats by following the conservation guidelines of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.

Permits required for Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Unlike high altitude hikes, this short trek does not require any other trekking permits apart from the above-mentioned local entry fees. We have included the costs of the local entry fees, so you don't need to worry about extra payments at the gates

Here is the exact breakdown of the park and heritage entry fees we manage for you:

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Entry Fee

• Foreign Nationals: NPR 1,00/person
• SAARC Nationals: NPR 600/person
• Nepali Citizens: NPR 100/person

Changu Narayan Temple Heritage Fee

• Foreign Nationals: NPR 350/person
• SAARC Nationals: NPR 250/person
• Chinese Nationals: NPR 350/person
• Nepali Citizens: Free entry

Is Shivapuri National park abundant in flora?

Shivapuri National Park features a rich mix of plant life that shifts depending on altitude and climate, ranging from lush subtropical woods to dense temperate zones

Subtropical Forest (Below 1,500 m): This lower zone is mostly covered by Chilaune (Schima wallichii) and Dhale katus (Castanopsis indica). You will also find Uttis (Alnus nepalensis), Champ (Michelia champaca), and bamboo species like Dendrocalamus strictus.

Lower Temperate Forest (1,500 – 2,400 m): As you walk higher, the woods shift to Brown Oak (Quercus semecarpifolia) and Nepal's national flower, Lali Gurans (Rhododendron arboreum). This level also holds Angeri (Lyonia ovalifolia), wild berry trees like Kafal (Myrica esculenta), and various maples.

Upper Temperate Forest (Above 2,400 m): In the highest sections, the climate turns cool and damp. You will trek past tall oak trees, different types of rhododendrons, Himalayan Hemlock (Tsuga dumosa), and Silver Fir (Abies spectabilis).

Medicinal Plants and Herbs: The forest floor hides valuable traditional herbs. Local healers use Jatamansi (Valeriana jatamansi) for Ayurvedic remedies and Chiraito (Swertia chirayita) for its antimalarial benefits. You can also spot Satuwa (Paris polyphylla) and the highly toxic Bish (Aconitum species).

Will I be able to spot exotic birds and animals?

The 3-day hike kicks off from Sundarijal, leading straight into the protected area of Shivapuri National Park. This lush conservation area serves as a thriving ecosystem for native fauna. So, while trekking through the dense forests, we suggest you keep an observant eye for any sighting of birds and animals.

Mammals of the Trail

If you come across any wildlife on the trail, it is wise not to panic, and follow the instructions of our guide to avoid any unusual interactions. Some of the animals you might encounter include:

• Himalayan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus): Occasionally seen high up in the mountains.
• Indian Civet (Viverricula indica): This nocturnal omnivore is secretive and rarely seen.
• Jungle Cat (Felis chaus): Small wild cat usually found around human habitations.
• Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta) and Hanuman Langur (Semnopithecus entellus): Common and frequently encountered mammals that can always be seen swinging lazily from tree to tree.
• Yellow-throated Marten (Martes flavigula): An active, carnivorous mustelid darting through the brush.
• Barking Deer, also called Muntiacus muntjak: This animal is often heard or sometimes seen darting around in the thickets of the forest.
• Himalayan Goral, also called Naemorhedus goral: It is adapted to live in the mountainous habitat of Asia.
• Porcupine, also called Hystrix indica: This animal is a burrowing nocturnal creature that hides in its burrows during the day.

Birds of Shivapuri National Park

Recognized globally as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International, the park shelters over 300 recorded species. When guiding you through, we keep our binoculars ready for these birds:

Birds of Prey

• Himalayan Griffon (Gyps himalayensis): Large soaring vultures
• Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis): Stunning migrant eagle
• Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela): Commonly seen perched on treetops searching for prey.

Pheasants and Ground Birds

• Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus): This beautiful bird is the national bird of Nepal. It has very attractive feathers.
• Kalij Pheasant (Lophura leucomelanos): This ground-dwelling bird is commonly found in dense forests.

Songbirds and Other Species

• Spotted Forktail (Enicurus maculatus): Active right along the rushing stream banks.
• Rufous-bellied Niltava (Niltava sundara): A brightly colored flycatcher.
• Scarlet Minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus): Characterized by a flash of vibrant red and black overhead.
• Blue-throated Barbet (Psilopogon asiaticus): Known for its echoing, repetitive calls.
• Great Barbet (Psilopogon virens): The largest barbet species found across this zone.
• White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis): Often found near local water sources.

Lodges Accommodations on Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Your overnight stay on the trek will be in a local mountain lodge or hotel in Chisapani and Nagarkot. The local lodge is a community-run home offering a great place to stay overnight with a good view of the mountain. The rooms in these lodges are mostly twin-sharing with clean bedsheets, warm blankets, plus beautiful valley views to help you relax after a day of exploring.

These mountain stays offer you a chance to experience local hospitality, enjoy good food while resting your muscles in preparation for the next day’s adventure. The accommodations along the trail tend to be basic but comfortable, usually having shared bathrooms rather than private rooms with attached bathrooms. However, in the town of Nagarkot, there is a range of good hotels and lodges offering more upscale amenities including private bathrooms and a variety of food options.

Meals on Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

The mountain lodge will provide you with healthy meals that will keep you energized and nourished during the tour. You will be provided with complete breakfast, lunch, and dinner on your overnight stays at Chisapani and Nagarkot. In the morning, you will be served with meal options that include oatmeal, cornflakes, French toast, eggs, and pancakes.

In the afternoon and at night, you will be offered traditional Nepalese food such as Dal Bhat, hot noodles, spaghetti, soup, and salads. You can also order hot meals like potatoes, rice, bread, and eggs. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices are readily available to suit your dietary preference, and you can easily pack extra energy bars or trail snacks for the road.

Customize the Itinerary to Reach More Attractions

Although the classic three-day tour is focused on four main attractions, it is possible to customize this route according to your preferences and interests. If you want to explore the region more thoroughly, you can extend the tour and discover all seven UNESCO World Heritage sites listed in the valley, admire the spectacular views over the surrounding valley from Dhulikhel and Champadevi, or visit the ancient monastery in Namobuddha.

The tour can also be organized as an extended hike through the valley, which will allow you to enjoy the beauty of the natural landscape, hike through the lush green vegetation of Phulchowki, and experience the local culture. Either way, the tour can be customized according to your wishes and interests. Besides, all details are carefully taken care of, so you do not have to worry about anything – you only have to enjoy the amazing views and the spectacular adventure.