30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Picnic is a perfect getaway from the urban hustle and daily grind. Whenever I speak of picnic, it makes me nostalgic and it takes me back to my childhood. I remember the days where I’d spent running in the green fields and eating large quantities of food! This blog aims to provide you with a brief idea about the picnic spots in Kathmandu where you can relax and build unforgettable memories.

1. Tribhuvan Park

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

It is one of the most favorable picnic destinations in Kathmandu. If you grew up in Kathmandu, chances are, you have been here either from your school or family picnic. It sits in Thankot which is a 15 minutes’ drive from Kalanki. The size of the park is moderate but its serenity and natural beauty make up for its size. The park has a water fountain near its entrance and you can find neatly carved botanical gardens too.

The park has proper restroom and electricity facilities but you need to pay a bit extra for reserving a picnic spot. In a nutshell, you can enjoy your picnic without any nuisance in Tribhuvan Park.  

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2. Godawari

If you are fond of nature, birds, and exotic plants, then look nowhere else than Godawari. It sits approximately 10 km away from Patan and provides picnickers with a natural package that comprises of green hills and natural beauty. Make a trip to the Botanical garden and stand in awe at the various species of plants. Also, this shall keep the children occupied too!

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

If you want to make the picnic adventurous, then you can choose to hike to the summit of Phulchowki Danda. The hiking trip gives way to beautiful vegetation and wild birds. Godawari truly is one of the best picnic spots in Kathmandu.

3. Changunarayan

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

The Changunarayan temple holds a position in the UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural importance. Also, it resides on top of a hill that provides an amazing view of the nearby surroundings. It is an ideal spot for a picnic. It is quite spacious and you don’t have to pay for entrance fees. However, you do have to pay for availing electricity, washroom facilities, and reserving the spot.

4. Lakuribhanjyang

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Lakuribhanjyang is a relatively new picnic spot that in recent years, has gained immense popularity. It is not only famous as a picnic hub, but there are short hike and treks too that lead here. It is about 13 km away from Gwarko and is easily accessible by road. The picnic spot sits atop a small hill that provides unblemished views of the snow-laden mountains. Also, you can observe the culture and traditions of the locals here.

5. Bajrabarahi temple

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

The Bajrabarahi temple sits in Chapagaun and it beautifully combines nature and religion. The temple is surrounded by forests that include more than 100 species of plants. There are ample picnic spots here but you need to pay to reserve it. The cost of using electricity and water is already adjusted in the reservation fee so you don’t have to pay extra. A picnic here will ease you of your daily stress and leave you happy and fulfilled.

6. Dhulikhel

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Dhulikhel is a quaint Newari settlement in the periphery of Kathmandu. It is easily accessible by road and takes about an hour and a half. A picnic in this cultural town will provide you the opportunity to understand the rich culture that we have. Also, if you want to stroll a bit further, then you can hike the nearby hill and witness gorgeous views of faraway mountains. It is a perfect weekend getaway from the daily hustle.

7. Kakani

If you want to experience a quiet natural getaway, then Kakani is the place to be. It sits in Nuwakot district and you can reach here through the Balaju by-pass. The roads are a combination of paved and unpaved paths. Along with a picnic, there are facilities for hiking, biking, and trekking too. After driving for 1-2 hours, we reach Kakani.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

You can visit the nearby trout farm and eat some of them too. The Osho Tapoban is also here which is a great place to meditate and find one’s true self. If you are up for it, hike to the nearby hill and observe the gorgeous picture of mountains like Manasalu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. After completing this picnic, it will forever have a special place in your heart.

8. Nagarkot

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Identically, Nagarkot is another hill station and a popular picnic spot near Kathmandu. It takes about 2 hours to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu. Likewise, Nagarkot is a famous hiking and trekking spot too. The picnic will provide you with an escape from the daily grind and into the arms of mother nature. You can even see rare birds in its dense jungles.

After the picnic, head to the view tower to catch surreal pictures of the Langtang mountain range, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa. Good food, companion, and natural allure are the key ingredients in having a wonderful picnic and Nagarkot provide them all.

9. Dolalghat

Dolalghat is a miniature resting hub on the road to Dolakha and Tatopani. Its famous landmark is the huge bridge on top of the blue river. It is a popular place to take part in recreational activities like fishing and picnic. If you move a bit further, then there is a river rafting facility too. It is a great stress relief too.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Also, Dolalghat provides you with beautiful views of the snowy mountains and a walk on the sandy river bed. You can even see locals swimming here but we advise you not to as the river is unpredictable. In a nutshell, Dolalghat is an ideal picnic destination for water-related activities.

10. Jarsingpauwa

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

While Dolalghat is famous among water enthusiasts, Jarsinghpauwa, on the other hand, is famous among nature lovers. It is a quaint hilly area that is mostly famous for its beautiful tea gardens. It is often called as mini Illam. The tea gardens here provide travelers with an amazing experience. Along with that, the gorgeous view of the snowy mountains is simply immaculate. So, if you need a quick getaway, then this is the place to be.

11. Pilot Baba

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

The Pilot baba ashram sits in Bhaktapur and is slowly gaining popularity amidst picnic enthusiasts. It resides on top of a hill and provides amazing pictures of the valley below. The road leading to Pilot Baba Ashram is blacktopped and picturesque. It is just a 15-minutes ride from the Suryabinayak temple. The Ashram is a temple and to enter, you need to pay a certain fee. You can find pujaris and visitors here.

12. Dakshinkali

Daskhinkali is a famous Hindu temple that sits 22 kilometers away from Kathmandu. This holy temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. This picnic destination carefully combines religion and nature in one. Near the temple premises, you can find a picnic spot. However, they might charge you extra for using other facilities.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

In addition, you can head to Pharping and understand the culture and lifestyle of the locals here. The people living here are mostly of the Newar community and you will find their architecture and lifestyle intriguing.

13. Panauti

There is a certain mythical vibe in Panauti that isn’t found anywhere. This antique town has great ties to Kathmandu’s history. It was an independent region before finally becoming a part of Bhaktapur. Historical records state that Panauti was built by the Malla kings in the 13th century. However, let’s not ponder in the historical aspects and understand why it is such a great picnic spot.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

During your picnic, make a visit to Panauti’s cultural side. For starters, visit the Brahmayani temple and the tall Krishna temple too. The Indreshwor temple bears the largest Shiva Lingams probably in Nepal. Likewise, the pagoda structure is huge too. A walk-in its main square will provide you with a pleasant vibe and make your day worthwhile.

14. Namobuddha

There is a magical allure in Namobuddha that is hard to comprehend. Its allure has made it a favorite trekking/hiking/picnic destination. This amazing monastery is beautifully draped in red with gold tops. Historians believe that here, Buddha in his past life sacrificed himself to maintain Dharma in the world. This monastery sits on top of a hill and provides amazing pictures of the green hills, blue horizon, and crisp mountains.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

In your picnic, you can explore the monastery and interact with the monks. Learn about the secrets enveloping Buddhism and apply its teachings to life. Furthermore, you can even take part in spiritual activities like yoga, once the picnic is over.

15. Sundarijal

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Sundarijal sits 17 km away on the northeast section of Kathmandu. It is a commencing point for many treks that occur in the Shivapuri national park and Langtang region. If you are not into hikes and treks, then you can choose to take a short picnic here. You can visit the nearby waterfall and understand the beauty of nature. There is a water reservoir too so if you feel like visiting, then you can do it. A journey in its wilderness will provide you with a true meaning of serenity.

16. Dolakha Bhimsen

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Dolakha Bhimsen is a holy place of Nepal. It resides in the Dolakha district. If you are planning to visit Kalinchowk this winter, then chances are, you might visit this temple too. The temple has great significance among the Hindus.  It is said that whenever the statue of Lord Bhimsen sweats, something bad will happen in the nation. Keeping myths aside, the Dolakha Bhimsen temple is a great picnic destination.

It takes about 5-6 hours to reach there from Kathmandu. The last 40-50 km of the road is undergoing construction and is dusty and full of potholes. Near the temple, there is an empty ground where you can relax and enjoy. The picnic to Dolakha Bhimsen is filled with adventure and enthusiasm.

17. Balaju

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

The Balaju park is a near and simple picnic spot near Kathmandu. If you feel that you don’t have enough time to go far, then this is the place to be. The park does not have facilities like the other parks but it does have a quiet environment. It is a quick getaway from the daily grind of life. Furthermore, you can visit the nearby water taps. A picnic in Balaju park is simple but does give you certain relief.

18. Karya Binayak

The Karya Binayak temple sits in Khokana and is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The temple sits on top of a small hill. The area surrounding the temple are green with forests. There are picnic spots as well. You need to pay a certain reservation fee if you want to book it. In addition, you also have to pay for the bathroom and electricity facility.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

In this picnic, you can even choose to visit Khokana. This ancient Newari city has various myths related to it. You can even visit the temple where Rato Machhendranth is kept. The temple was greatly affected by the 2015 earthquake but it is now ongoing construction. This picnic will always hold a special place in your heart.

19. Sallaghari Subarneshwor

If you frequently travel the 6-lane highway in Bhaktapur, then you might have seen tall pine trees on a hill. That, my friend, is the Sallaghari picnic spot. The picnic spot is on top of a hill and the place is greatly decorated by pine trees. There is a temple here and this place holds many weddings and bratabandha ceremonies too.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

In terms of picnic, you can get a quick break from the daily grind. As this picnic hub lies in the city, don’t expect to see mountains and hills. However, you will get to see lots of birds and even monkeys too.

20. Budhanilkantha

The Budhanilkantha temple sits on the base of the Shivapuri hill. You can find a statue of Lord Bishnu sleeping on a bed of snakes. As it sits on the base of a hill, the environment is fresh and invigorating. As you move further, you can see small picnic spots. They are few so, you might need to reserve them early.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

If you want to make the picnic interesting, then you can choose to visit Danda Gaun. Likewise, you can hike inside the Shivapuri national park too. The hike will take you to the Nagi Gompa monastery. The view from here is simply stunning. In a nutshell, the picnic in Budhanilkantha gives you the opportunity to combine a picnic and hike.

21. Sankha park

In recent years, Sankha park is gaining quite a bit of notoriety among the inhabitants of Kathmandu valley. The park is a lengthy stretch of trees on the banks of the Bagmati river. The park sits near the bridge that connects Kathmandu and Lalitpur. If you visit it in the morning, you can find many people practicing yoga and doing morning walk here.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

In the afternoon, you might see picnic enthusiasts. There are small picnic spots maintained in the park. If you fancy yourself a quick getaway from the daily grind, then this is the place to be. Although you’ll not get to witness jaw-dropping views of the mountains, you’ll experience peace.

22. Chobhar

The Chobhar hill is accessible via Balkhu. This hill has various myths associated with it. For starters, people believe that Majushree cut the gorge and allowed the water to drain when Kathmandu valley was a lake. The Jal Binayak temple can be found here too. A bit ahead from the temple, there is a picnic spot and you can enjoy here.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

Furthermore, you can visit the Manjushree cave and explore the hills. A bit ahead from Jal Binayak is the Taudaha lake. You can spend some time exploring the lake premises as well.

23. Kulekhani

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

The Kulekhani dam is a water reservoir in Markhu. It is easily accessible by road and takes approximately 2 hours. The journey takes you from Balkhu, Pharping, and Kulekhani. There, you can see the huge Indrasarovar Tal. This lake is man-made. You can see people boating in it. Near the lake shores, you can witness small picnic spots. This picnic experience combines nature and a little bit of culture to give you the complete package.

24. Chandragiri

The Chandragiri hill is one of the biggest hills that surrounds Kathmandu. It is from here that King Prithivi Narayan Shah saw Kathmandu valley and annexed it. There is a cable car service that starts from Thankot and takes you to the summit of the hill. On the summit, you can find a statue of King Prithivi Narayan Shah and a temple of Lord Shiva.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

In addition, you can observe surreal pictures of the Kathmandu valley and the frosty mountains like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Gaurishankar. If you travel in winter, you can even see snowfall. So, be sure to plan accordingly.

25. Manakamana

The Manakamana temple is situated in Gorkha and is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati. The temple sits about 100 km away from Kathmandu. The journey takes you along the Prithivi highway and from Kurintar, you will catch a cable car to Gorkha. The cable car ride takes you above the Trishuli river and lets you observe the green hills and scenery.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

The temple sees thousands of visitors daily. You can see many lodges and hotels here too. In case of a picnic, you can either eat in the nearby hotels or eat near the Trishuli riverside. Likewise, you can travel a bit ahead and take part in a river rafting program too. This picnic will be one of the best experiences of your life.

26. Patale ban

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

The Pataleban vineyard resort is your quick getaway for a wonderful time. It is located just a bit ahead from the Thankot checkpoint. It is your perfect destination to sit back, relax, and unwind a bit. From Kathmandu, it takes approximately an hour. The vineyard is draped in trees and greenery. Spend some quality time with your family and engrave it in your memory.

27. Palanchok Bhagwati

The Palanchok Bhagwati temple is located in Kavre. It is a quick detour from the main Kathmandu-Kodari highway. Approximately 10 km to be clear. The temple sits on top of a hill so you have to drive for at least 20 minutes. The temple sees huge traffic in festivals like Dashain. Nearby the temple, there are empty spots that are quite favorable for a picnic. You need to pay charges for a picnic though.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

You might not find electricity facilities so that can be a bit cumbersome. Furthermore, the temple provides astounding views of the faraway mountain range. In this picnic, you can enjoy a blend of natural scenery and religion.

28. Gokarna

Gokarna is a quaint forested area near Kathmandu. It sits 10 km away from Kathmandu and is mostly free from the urban hustle. Here, you can find green forests and a peaceful environment. In the past, it was a hunting ground for the locals. Although most of the area of Gokarna is now private, there are some public places too. A picnic in Gokarna is relatively peaceful and provides you the opportunity to enjoy a day off.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

However, as this part is still undergoing development, you might not get the facilities easily.

29. Sanga

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu
Kailashnath Mahadev Statue, the tallest Shiva Statue. It is in Sanga, Nepal.

Sanga is mostly known by people as the place where the biggest statue of Lord Shiva resides. It lies in close proximity to the Kathmandu valley and is a quick getaway too. A picnic here gives you the opportunity to visit the nearby Newari settlements and temples. Click some photos in front of the colossal Shiva statue and do enjoy the lively environment.

30. Daman

Daman is a quaint hill station which sits 75 km from Kathmandu. You can reach this place via the Prithivi highway and then the Tribhuvan highway. A ride here will take you along the dwindling hilly roads and then to the summit of Daman. There is a view tower too that provides amazing pictures of the green landscape below and the faraway mountains.

30 Best Picnic Spots in Kathmandu

In addition, there are small gardens too which you can visit. There are different types of plants here so do give it a visit. This picnic trip will help you to appreciate the natural things in life.

We hope that you will visit the picnic spots mentioned here and have a wonderful time.

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