Uncharted Thoughts.

Nepal is the worlds capital for mountaineering and trekking. Of course there are other incredible hiking destinations across the world, the Rockies, the Andes, the Alps and the Pyrenees. But the Himalayan mountains are the crowning jewel of this planets beauty, at least in my opinion.

So, while in Kathmandu shopping, and exploring, it is important to start getting those legs ready for the big climbs.

Of course, if you have planned to come out and trek in the Himalayan mountains you are already fit and able… right? Yes, of course you’ve been training at home in preparation for this trip. You wouldn’t have just bought a ticket and hoped for the best, that is not like you.

Sarcasm aside, please, do not underestimate mountain trekking anywhere in the world. Altitude can kill, it almost killed me. HERE.

Kathmandu, although busy with the life of city peoples. The valley itself is not without perfect day hikes and beautiful views.

Warning!

If you take part in any hikes. PLease be sure to check the weather conditions as well as the terrain difficulty. to do this visit the local guide or tour shop. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and leave only footprints.

Here at Uncharted Thoughts we travel to hike(mostly), and we have supplied some of the best hikes in the Kathmandu area for you all to enjoy and warm up those legs before the big hills:

• Jagadol Tarebhir
• Balthali
• Bhasmasur Hill, along the champadevi.
• Buddha Cave in the Nagarjun
• Ranikot Village

Jagadol Tarebhir

This is a hike I wish I had done before hitting the Himalayas. Although I was unable to take part in this hike myself. I heard a lot of good reviews from other travellers while in Kathmandu. So, if you are looking for a first hand account, please, look else where.

The Jagadol Tarebhir is a hike that can take 2 hours, or 8. It depends on where you want to start. Most people start the hike in the Chunikhel or Chapali Bhadrakali district. Its a short bus ride from the Thamel district. Taking a bus or taxi, for a thirty minuet drive up through the Kathmandu chaos.

Others, the most skint and adventurous types. Walk the four hour trek through the city to the Chunikhel or Chapali Bhadrakali to then start the accent to the hills summit.

There are of course benefits to both of these options. If you take a taxi or bus, you are able to complete the trek within 5 hours in total, and get back in time for dinner and a cocktail. It’s easier, and with the same visual rewards as those that walk. However, if you walk from Thamel, you will meet people along the way that will make you smile, you will explore parts of Kathmandu unexplored by many tourists and you will have a reward better than any view can give you… a memory worth a lifetime.

You don’t need a guide or porter for this walk. Its strenuous when the sun is out. But besides water, a snack and some common sense you will be fine.

When I return to Nepal, in a year or so. We will be doing this trek without a doubt.

At the top of the hill, the views are supposed to be phenomenal. Overlooking the large city, there is no perch quite like it. Surrounded by greenery and monkeys. You would have achieved a picture worth your time and efforts.

At the end of this epic trek there are cafes for refreshments, a smooth road to lead you back to the city and a monastery in waiting.

With £5 this trek can be a wonderful day hike with coffee, and snacks. With buses or taxi’s it still isn’t a bank breaker. Maybe adding on an additional £3.

Balthali

This trek isn’t as accessible as Jagadol Tarebhir, it is tucked out the way of the Kathmandu valley. Some 40+ kilometres from the city’s busy centre, in the remote location of Panauti. So, if you are looking to explore the recommended monastery of Namo Buddha (as seen previously HERE). Then you can hit two birds with one stone and hike the Balthali.

Among rolling green hills, tranquil rivers and valleys, and the sparsely populated villages. Balthali day hike will take your breath away. Everyone that visits Nepal goes to the same places, Poon Hill, Annapurna and of course Everest base camp. But there is a beauty in the south that is somewhat untouched by hoards of tourists, not because it is any less beautiful, but because it isn’t as grand in the eyes of the majority.

Step back in time as you stroll through the ancient southern valleys and farm lands. Spend a night in one of the many many luxury resorts, or perhaps in a village hall?

This is very much a day hike, at entry level and with a timid altitude of 2500m. Although these are supposed to be day hikes, and this is a day hike. Due to the location someway out of town, it would be best to set your sights on staying the night.

This trek is filled with agricultural sightseeing, culture, monuments to Gods and Goddesses, and the remanence of pilgrimage.

It is difficult to recall the exact pricing of this hike, and on my return to Nepal I will be sure to update this so you can know a more accurate price representation. However, I recall the bus to Panauti being relatively cheap (under £5), food was £1.00/£1.80 a meal with a drink and accommodation was relative.

All in all, you can spend less that £30 on shoe string budget to get this incredible adventure under your belt. Of course there ara tours you can take if you feel the need. But this is one of the safest places I have ever visited, I felt that on the trail, I could have left a camera on the side of the path and came back the next day to it still being there, perhaps even been cleaned. (I do not recommend leaving anything anywhere ever).

Bhasmasur Hill, along the champadevi.

Lets head back to Kathmandu, to a hike more accessible routes. Although we all enjoy a bumpy, rammed bus in twenty five plus degree sweltering heat for hours on end. Sometimes, you just wanna get up, out of your hostel and head for the hills. Nothing strenuous, just good old fashioned morning walks.

So, jump out of your bed, lets shake off that jetlag with some smoggy air and a hike up a hill to one of the best views of Kathmandu.

As a Thru hiker, a five hour hike to the beginning of the hike isn’t anything to bat and eye at. I think exploring beyond the taxi is so important in understanding a culture and seeing the world through a true lens. However, a taxi ride is easier and if you have a strict time limit to your adventures.

Get a taxi, bus or walk to the South West of the city. To the Pahiro Bus Stop. From there the REAL walk begins. Upon exiting from the mode of transport, have a drink of water and get ready for a gradual climb. Exit off the tarmacked road onto a rough, old path.

A narrow path is shaded by trees, and ascends into the unknown. Motor bikes and cars are still permitted here, so be sure to keep and eye out on the climb.

As you climb it wont be long before the sound of the city begins to fade, replaced by bird songs and laughing locals. In each direction, through the trees you can make out the surrounding hills sides, all green, all equally as beautiful from the last. If you look carefully, small breaks in the trees show temples and shrines to Gods far older than those of western religions.

Soon enough you arrive on the hills ridgeline. Between the gaps in the dense treeline you can make out the vast city in the expanding valley below. Like a grey jungle of human life, it goes on and on and on into the horizon. Paths will start to direct into the one you walk on from the East, South and North, at any point, take one of these paths and return to the valley floor. But for the real rewards, continue up to Bhasmasur Hill.

After passing prayer flag incombered shrines and ceremonial painted temples you will arrive at Bhasmasur hills summit. A spot of beauty and a mesmerising view. Sit, take in the beau

Buddha Cave in the Nagarjun

Hidden deep in a calm, still and angelic woodland just off from the city is a cave of great importance and mystery. The Nagarjun forest reserve is home to some of Kathmandu’s most incredible view points. It also houses a cave of the Buddha.

It is probably the closest walk from the city centre. A thirty minute taxi, 40 minute bus and a 2 hour walk West of the city. It is possible the only greenery you can seen from the city floor. Catching a glimpse of it through ally ways and gaps between buildings.

This is another easy climb to help warm up the legs ready for bigger more challenging hikes in the Himalayas.

I thought about posting some pictures of the view, the cave and some of the magic the forest provides walkers. But, I think it’ll be better for you to go and explore this place for yourself. It is by far the easier, cheapest and best views of the city.

Ranikot Village

Ranikot Village is another trek I wish I had the opportunity to do, and on my return to Nepal, I will update this section of the post.

While in Kathmandu, I had a choice. Ranikot Village or Jagadol Tarebhir. I chose Jagadol Tarebhir. I don’t regret making the decision, but its like trying to choose a flavour of ice cream from a stand that charges extortionate prices for a scoop. I chose, and i live with that decision. But, would the cream berry whirl been a better option. I guess I’ll have to come back next year.

Ranikot Village is a taxi, bus or long walk from the city centre. In the South East of the city limits. It’s an easy walk, consisting of hills and straight paths through woodland and farm land.

Along the way there are marvellous view points, small villages and farms, a vip line and, you guessed it, temples and shrines.

Although I have yet to do this myself, from reviews and other online research. I’d recommend this hike to those of lower fitness levels and those with an eye for cult