Departure Point

From your hotel stay
Pickup Time

8 AM
Duration

7 to 8 hours
Dificulty

Easy
Max Altitude

2030 metres
Destination Covered

Kakani / Gurjebhanjyang

Overview

Kakani, located in the Nuwakot district of Nepal, is a hidden gem for trekkers looking for a scenic and challenging hike. The trail offers the panoramic views of mountain ranges lLangtang, Ganesh, Manasalu and Annapurna), Kakani’s cultivated Japanese strawberries, rhododendron-flavored liquor and rainbow trout dishes, and Mountain Memorial Park.

The hike to Kakani begins with a 1 hour drive from Kathmandu to Kakani From there, the trail takes you through lush forests and terraced rice fields, with occasional stops at traditional Tamang villages ending up at Gurjebhanjyang. Along the way, you will pass by several small temples and monasteries, offering a glimpse into the rich religious culture of the region.

The hike to Kakani is considered moderate in difficulty, with steep climbs and rocky terrain. It is best done with a guide who can help navigate the trail and provide information on the local culture and history. The hike can be completed in 4-5 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops you would like to make along the way.

Overall, the hike to Kakani is a must-do for anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding hike in Nepal. With its stunning views, rich culture, and peaceful atmosphere, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Few important points to keep in mind

It is prohibited to bring any items that could potentially cause a fire, such as speakers, knives, matchboxes, and lighters.
Additionally, visitors should refrain from making loud noises that could disturb the local wildlife and their habitat.
There are no facilities along the trail for food or drink, so hikers should make sure to bring their own packed lunch, water, and snacks.

Highlights of Kakani Hike

Stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Langtang, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri ranges
The opportunity to experience the traditional culture of the local Tamang people
Passing through lush forests and terraced rice fields
Visiting small temples and monasteries, offering a glimpse into the rich religious culture of the region
Panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley from the viewpoint at Kakani
Suitable for trekkers of moderate skill levels
Can be done in a day
A challenging and rewarding experience
A peaceful atmosphere.

Day 1 :

Detailed Itinerary of Kakani Hike

We will come to your hotel to pick you up at 7:00 AM, as an early start to the day guarantees the best views of the peaks. As the day progresses, the visibility of the peaks decreases, therefore we suggest starting the trip as early as possible to make the most of the experience.

Kakani to Kaule drive :
A one-hour drive from Kathmandu will take you to the starting point of your hike at Kaule, Kakani. Along the way, you will witness the transition of the city into green fields and picturesque hills. The serene surroundings of the rural villages is a perfect opportunity to take photographs. Upon arrival, you will see trout farms and strawberry crops, which are cultivated by the local farmers. The Langtang Range is also visible from this point.
Kakani is a popular spot for picnics, known for its dense forests of rhododendron, oak and pine, and the cultivation of Japanese strawberries, and other crops. After a brief break for tea or coffee, you will begin your hike through Kakani's natural beauty.

Kakani to Gurjebhanjyang hike (5-6 hours)
The hike in Kakani begins by visiting the Mountain Memorial Park, built to honor deceased mountaineers by the Nepal Mountaineering Association. Take a moment to have a cup of tea and prepare for the hike through the dense forests of oak and rhododendron. The first section of the trail is uphill and a bit challenging, but it becomes more leisurely and enjoyable as you continue. The trail offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains in the distance and the chance to see local farmers cultivating crops. During the right season, you may even have the opportunity to help with strawberry picking.

Kakani is renowned for its rainbow trout, homemade strawberries, and rhododendron-flavored liquor, so be sure to try some of these local delicacies. You can also interact with the local Tamang people to learn more about their way of life. Imagine having lunch surrounded by the stunning views of the Annapurna Range, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Langtang, Mt. Gaurishankar, and Ganesh Himal.
On the way, you can also take a short walk to the Thai Memorial Park, built to commemorate the victims of the tragic 1992 Thai Airlines crash in Nepal. Finally, the hike concludes by reaching Gurje Bhanjyang via Suryachaur, and then transportation back to Kathmandu will be provided.

Drive back to Kathmandu from Gurjebhanjyang (1 hour 15 minutes)
After completing your hike, you will return to Kathmandu by car. Before leaving Gurje Bhanjyang and Kakani, it's a good idea to pick up some souvenirs and take a few photos as keepsakes. This also helps to support the local economy. After a long day of adventure, your trip will come to an end as you arrive back at your hotel in Kathmandu.