Chisapani Hiking: Sunrise Ridges and Rhododendron Forests Above Kathmandu
A half-day push from Sundarijal into clean mountain air, with tea-house stops and big Himalayan horizons.
At Sundarijal’s park gate, the morning air is cool and clean, rinsed by the waterfalls that tumble through the pines. The path wastes no time. Stone steps climb beside sluicing water, and the forest seems to set the pace—rhododendrons nudging you higher, the creek daring you to keep up. You trade the city’s honking tempo for birdsong and the hush of needles underfoot, and within minutes Kathmandu’s noise softens into a faraway rumor.
Trail Wisdom
Start With The Waterfalls
The stone steps near Sundarijal can be slick from spray—use poles and take short, careful steps until the trail dries under the forest canopy.
Carry Cash For Permits And Tea
The Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park ticket is purchased at the gate and tea houses along the route are cash-only; small bills make life easier.
Beat The Haze
For clearest mountain views, start by 7:30 a.m. and aim to be on the ridge by late morning before afternoon clouds build.
Mind The Mule Trains
Step to the uphill side and give pack animals plenty of room on narrow sections—let them pass before continuing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A short detour to the old Sundarijal hydropower station for a look at early Nepalese engineering
- •Ridgetop meadow near Chisapani where prayer flags frame the Langtang range on clear days
Wildlife
Himalayan langur, Kalij pheasant
Conservation Note
Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park safeguards the watershed that supplies a significant share of Kathmandu’s drinking water—stay on trail and pack out all trash to protect fragile soils and springs.
Sundarijal Hydropower Station began operation in 1934, making it one of Nepal’s earliest hydropower projects and a key part of Kathmandu’s development.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Rhododendron blooms, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Afternoon showers, Busy weekends
Forests flower with rhododendron in March–April and temperatures are comfortable. Expect occasional showers and more hikers on clear days.
summer
Best for: Lush greenery, Cool forest shade
Challenges: Monsoon rain, Leeches on damp trails
Trails are vivid and alive, but rocks are slick and downpours common. Wear good traction and consider leech socks in July–August.
fall
Best for: Crisp mountain views, Dry trails
Challenges: Sunny exposure on ridge, Cool mornings
Clear skies and stable weather make this the prime season for long-range views. Start with a layer; shed it as the sun warms the ridge.
winter
Best for: Quiet trails, Crystal-clear horizons
Challenges: Cold mornings, Icy patches
Expect chilly starts and occasional frost, but some of the year’s best visibility. Pack a warm layer and tread carefully in shaded, icy spots.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy Hiking ShoesEssential
Grippy soles handle wet stone steps near Sundarijal and rooty singletrack higher up.
Light Rain ShellEssential
Afternoon showers are common; a packable shell keeps you dry without overheating.
Trekking Poles
Helpful on steep sections and for stability on slick rock around the waterfalls.
Water Filter or Purification Tablets
Top up confidently from taps or tea houses along the way without relying on bottled water.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit for this hike?
Yes. You must purchase a Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park entry ticket at the Sundarijal gate; bring cash and keep the receipt.
Is a guide required?
A guide is not mandatory for the standard Chisapani route, but going with a local guide adds cultural context, helps with logistics, and is valuable if you’re new to Nepal’s trails.
What about altitude sickness?
Chisapani’s elevation (~2,150 m) is below the typical threshold for altitude illness. Most hikers feel fine; hydrate, pace yourself, and rest if you feel lightheaded.
Are there places to eat on the trail?
Yes. Teahouses in Mulkharka and Chisapani offer simple meals (momos, noodles, tea). Carry snacks in case a spot is closed.
How do I get to the trailhead?
Hire a taxi or rideshare from central Kathmandu to Sundarijal (45–60 minutes depending on traffic). Local buses also run but are slower and less direct.
Is the trail family-friendly?
Fit kids and teens used to hiking can handle it. The elevation gain and steps are sustained; allow extra time and bring plenty of water and snacks.
What to Pack
1) Lightweight layers for cool mornings and warm climbs. 2) 1.5–2 liters of water plus a filter to refill at tea houses. 3) Grippy footwear for wet stone near waterfalls. 4) Cash (small bills) for park permits and tea-house stops.
Did You Know
Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park protects the headwaters that supply a significant portion of Kathmandu Valley’s drinking water, and Sundarijal hosts one of Nepal’s earliest hydropower plants (operational since 1934).
Quick Travel Tips
Start by 7:30 a.m. for the best views. Buy the park ticket at the gate—bring cash. Expect spotty cell service beyond Mulkharka. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Local Flavor
Post-hike, head to Boudhanath Stupa for a slow lap with the locals, then refuel with buffalo momos and thukpa at a family-run eatery. Craving a toast? Grab a craft brew at a Kathmandu microbrewery or sample chyang (rice beer) at a simple tavern near Jorpati on the way back from Sundarijal.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Tribhuvan International (KTM). Trailhead: Sundarijal Gate, ~12–15 km/45–60 minutes by taxi from Thamel. Cell service: Fair to spotty past Mulkharka. Permits: Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park entry ticket required; TIMS not needed for this day hike.
Sustainability Note
Refill bottles at tea houses with treated water and skip single-use plastics. Stay on the main trail to prevent erosion on this watershed-protecting hillside.