About Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek
The Kathmandu Valley is often labeled as the cultural epicenter of Nepal. It is deemed so mostly because there are a plethora of cultural landmarks that enchant travelers and educate them about the importance that these sites have on the daily lives of the locals. The valley comprises religious sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath. The 8-day Kathmandu Valley Rim trek is designed to provide travelers with an insight into these cultural sites and the sites that are found in the periphery of the Kathmandu Valley. In this trek, you’ll not only explore Kathmandu, but you’ll go on an illustrious journey towards the antique settlements that surround the valley.
Your 8-day Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek begins once you arrive at Kathmandu. Indulge in a brief introductory session and later embark on a cultural and spiritual awakening that takes you to the summit of Swayambhu Hill. You will drown in the essence of Buddhism and learn the way of monks. Proceed towards Pashupatinath and comprehend the meaning of life in its many temples and at its ghat where cremation takes place every day.
The journey now unfolds a natural site as we move towards Sundarijal. There, we shall see the water reservoir and a roaring waterfall. We enter the Shivapuri National Park and hike through the jungles and steep terrain. The trail greets us with small streams and birds. We finally reach Chisapani and after relishing the display of the Langtang mountain range, we head to Nagarkot.
This quaint hill station is a favorite among locals to spend some quality time. Admire the green hills and move towards the cultural town called Dhulikhel. Learn the authentic Newari culture and begin the hike to Namobuddha. This is a revered site among Buddhists as, in ancient times, Buddha sacrificed himself to feed a tigress and maintain dharma in the world. This monastery sits on top of a hill and gives you beautiful views of the surrounding ambiance. You can even try meditation.
The tour now takes a turn at Panauti. This historic village has so much to offer and you can greatly benefit from it. After talking with the locals and tasting authentic cuisine, we will head back to Kathmandu via the Araniko highway where this journey will end.
Trekking in the periphery of the Kathmandu valley is different from trekking in the Himalayas. You do not require any sort of experience and skill. If you are able, then that is sufficient. The benefit that these treks have over the ones in the Himalayas is that they can be done throughout the year. There is no best time to take this trek as it can be done anytime. But a majority of the people take this trek from October to December.
