Top 10 Budget-Friendly Places to Visit Near Kathmandu.

Guru Travels 17 April 2025

Top 10 Budget-Friendly Places to Visit Near KathmanduI Introduction:

With the New Year approaching, it’s the perfect time to step out of the city and celebrate in the lap of nature. Whether you’re into snow-capped mountains, spiritual places, peaceful landscapes, or riverside fun, there are plenty of places near Kathmandu that offer memorable experiences without breaking the bank. Here are 10 fantastic and affordable destinations you can explore for a refreshing New Year celebration.

1. Kalinchowk, Dolakha

At an altitude of 3,842 meters, Kalinchowk is one of the most popular winter destinations near Kathmandu, especially for those seeking snow and mountain views. Located around 150 km from the capital, the journey takes you through Bhaktapur, Khadichaur, Mude, and Charikot before reaching Kuri village, from where a cable car or short hike takes you to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple. Local buses to Charikot are available from Old Bus Park, and from there, jeeps head up to Kalinchowk. With its spiritual vibe, panoramic Himalayan views, and adventure in the snow, Kalinchowk is perfect for a festive New Year getaway.
Best Attractions: Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, snowfall views, cable car ride, panoramic view of Gaurishankar Himal
Budget: NPR 2,500–3,000 (including transport, food, stay, and optional cable car)

2. Sailung, Dolakha

Sailung, known as the "land of 100 hills," sits at 3,146 meters and offers one of the best 360-degree Himalayan views you’ll find near Kathmandu. About 132 km away, this peaceful destination can be reached by traveling through Dhulikhel and Mude before ascending to Sailung via Khanda Devi. Public buses depart from Old Bus Park to Mude, and local jeeps can take you closer to the base before a short hike. Ideal for campers, sunrise lovers, and solitude seekers, Sailung rewards visitors with breathtaking scenery and tranquil vibes.
Best Attractions: 100 rolling green hills, sunrise and sunset views, untouched natural beauty
Budget: NPR 2,000–2,500 (bus, jeep, camping gear, meals)

3. Sukute Beach, Sindhupalchok

If riverside camping and water adventure are your thing, Sukute Beach is a fantastic option just 70 km from Kathmandu. Located along the banks of the Bhotekoshi River, Sukute is famous for rafting, beach vibes, and relaxing resorts. You can take a local bus from Koteshwor or Jadibuti along the Arniko Highway to reach Sukute directly. Whether you're looking to unwind or enjoy some thrill with whitewater rafting, Sukute offers a refreshing alternative to hill destinations.
Best Attractions: Whitewater rafting, riverside camping, beach volleyball, music and bonfire nights
Budget: NPR 2,600–4,000 (depending on resort and rafting package)

4. Dhulikhel, Kavre

Only 30 km from Kathmandu and sitting at 1,550 meters, Dhulikhel is a charming heritage town known for its panoramic sunrise views and Newari architecture. The route via Sanga and Banepa leads you to this peaceful hilltop destination. Regular buses leave from Ratna Park and Old Bus Park throughout the day. Perfect for a short escape, Dhulikhel is rich in culture, history, and scenic beauty—ideal for a relaxed and soulful start to the new year.
Best Attractions: Sunrise over the Himalayas, Newari town ambiance, hiking to Namobuddha or Kali Temple
Budget: NPR 1,500–1,800 (transport, stay, meals)

5. Bethanchowk (King of Hills), Kavre

Often dubbed the “King of Hills,” Bethanchowk towers at 3,000 meters and offers a stunning and secluded camping experience. Around 60 km from Kathmandu, the journey goes through Panauti and Dapcha before you hike from the base to the summit. Take a local bus from Ratna Park to Panauti and then a jeep or hike your way to the top. Bethanchowk is best suited for adventurous travelers looking for peace, stargazing, and remote natural beauty.
Best Attractions: Panoramic hilltop views, stargazing, peaceful camping spots
Budget: NPR 1,000–1,200 (includes food, jeep, and camping essentials)

6. Nagarkot, Bhaktapur

At just 32 km from the city and standing at 2,175 meters, Nagarkot remains a timeless favorite for its majestic sunrise and views of eight Himalayan ranges. Easily accessible via Bhaktapur and Telkot, local buses to Nagarkot leave from Bhaktapur Bus Park near Kamalbinayak. Whether you're staying at a resort or hiking nearby trails, Nagarkot offers a quiet, scenic escape with an unmatched panoramic view perfect for New Year’s morning.
Best Attractions: Himalayan sunrise, hiking trails, view tower, peace and quiet
Budget: NPR 2,000–2,200 (includes bus, food, and accommodation)

7. Kakani, Nuwakot

Just 25 km northwest of Kathmandu, Kakani sits at 2,030 meters and is known for its cool climate, trout dishes, and views of the Langtang range. The route via Balaju and Tokha is smooth, and buses from Machhapokhari (near New Bus Park) make it easy to reach. With strawberry fields and peaceful picnic spots, Kakani is great for families and couples looking for a short and refreshing escape close to the city.
Best Attractions: Trout farming, Langtang views, peaceful picnic grounds, strawberry farms
Budget: NPR 1,700–2,000 (transport, food, and homestay)

8. Chisapani, Nuwakot

Chisapani, perched at 2,215 meters, is accessible through a scenic hike from Sundarijal, just 22 km away. Buses to Sundarijal leave from Lainchaur near Ratna Park, after which a 4–5 hour hike through Shivapuri National Park leads to Chisapani. Known for its lush forests, mountain views, and peaceful environment, this is an ideal retreat for trekkers and nature lovers wanting to reconnect with the wild over the holiday.
Best Attractions: Hiking trail, mountain views, forest trails, sunrise over Langtang range
Budget: NPR 1,700–1,900 (including park fee, hike, meals, and lodge)

9. Phulchowki, Lalitpur

Phulchowki, the highest hill surrounding the Kathmandu Valley, stands tall at 2,762 meters and is a paradise for birdwatchers and hikers. Located about 20 km from the city, you can reach the Godavari Botanical Garden via a bus from Lagankhel and either hike or take a local jeep up to the hilltop. During winter, Phulchowki often sees snowfall, making it a perfect destination for a snowy day hike and picnic with stunning valley views.
Best Attractions: Bird watching, snow (in winter), hilltop views, hiking from Godavari
Budget: NPR 700–1,000 (for food, transport, and entry)

10. Namo Buddha, Kavre

Famous for its serene Buddhist monastery and sacred legend, Namo Buddha lies 40 km from Kathmandu at an altitude of 1,750 meters. Take a bus from Ratna Park to Banepa or Panauti, then continue by jeep or hike up to the monastery. The peaceful environment, spiritual energy, and clean mountain air make it a rejuvenating destination for meditation, reflection, and a meaningful start to the year.
Best Attractions: Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, hiking trails, Buddhist culture and peace
Budget: NPR 1,800–2,000 (including food, jeep, and monastery stay)

Conclusion:
These 10 New Year escapes near Kathmandu offer a mix of spirituality, nature, adventure, and peace — each suited for different moods and budgets. Whether you're planning to go solo, with friends, or on a family trip, these getaways are sure to give you a refreshing and memorable start to your year. For planning, transport, or customized group trips, GuruTravels Limited is here to help make your journey easy, affordable, and joyful. Happy New Year .