Head Out for the Hills | Cover Story

Nagarjun

IMAGE COURTESY: NEPALI TIMES

Located just fifteen minutes away from the chaotic Balaju, Nagarjun danda offers an excellent day-long retreat, with lush green vegetation and even wildlife if you are lucky. Head up for a three-hour-long hike uphill or just bike your way through the motorable tracks (although hiking is strongly recommended). Be careful though, the recent crime-related incidents mean that you shouldn't hike alone.

Things to do: Visit the Jamacho Stupa, inhale the fresh, pollution-free air, see the Nagarjun palace or just scream on top of your lungs from the top.

Chobhar

In Chobhar, the fable of Manjushree lives to this day. The vantage point, where Manjushree supposedly sliced the limestone hill to drain out the water from the Valley still carries deep chasms.

Soak in the folklores or just enjoy a care-free day in the laid-back village, a day at Chobhar is not only cheap but also rewarding.

Things to do: Pay homage to Kollywood's favourite action-shoot spot, try to make your way out of the famous Chobhar cave, see the impressive array of kitchen utensils hanging from the roof of Adinath Lokeshwor temple or just stare at the frothy Bagmati river.

Shivapuri

The nearest national park from the Valley, Shivapuri National Park is located 12km away from Kathmandu's city centre and is just a microbus-ride away. Take along edibles and supplies, as there are no standalone shops inside.

Things to do: Birdwatching, photographing different species of plants and flowers or just zoning out from everything and spending some time alone.

Kakani

Located 25km northwest of Kathmandu, Kakani offers a spectacular view of the majestic peaks, ranging from Ganesh Himal to Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The quaint village can be reached through microbuses from Machapokhari, Balaju. Leave early so that you can explore the place on your own pace.

Things to do: Enjoy fresh rainbow trout and sukuti as you marvel the spectacular view. You could also roam around the picturesque village and interact with the locals.

Godavari/Phulchoki

Start off at Godavari if you want to scale Phulchoki. A mere half-hour microbus ride will take you to Godavari. Admire the Shanti Ban Budhha on your way; the huge Buddha sculpture is said to look better from a distance than close-up.

Lush vegetations welcome you once you reach Godavari. See the botanical garden or hike your way up to Phulchoki. Also, take along supplies and water with you.

Things to do: Enjoy the serene beauty and spend some time in the beautiful garden.

Others
There are miles of path still untrodden and hundreds of spots waiting to be discovered around Kathmandu. Ride a bike and head where-ever your instinct guides you. Trust us, the feeling is rewarding.