A Peaceful Day Hike into the Heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu. Step away from the city and into a world of calm and contemplation with our Buddhist Kopan Monastery Hiking Tour
1 Days
2-70
Easy
1350
Kathmandu
Kathmandu
- Duration: Full Day (6–7 hours total)
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
- Highest Altitude: 1,350 meters
- Start/End: Kathmandu hotel
- Best Seasons: Year-round (best in spring/autumn)
A Peaceful Day Hike into the Heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu. Step away from the city and into a world of calm and contemplation with our Buddhist Kopan Monastery Hiking Tour—a serene day escape through the rolling green hills of the Kathmandu Valley. Ideal for travellers seeking gentle adventure, cultural insight, and spiritual reflection, this one-day guided hike leads you to Kopan Monastery, a renowned centre for Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism.
Nestled on a quiet ridge above Boudhanath, Kopan offers sweeping views of the city below, peaceful gardens, and the rhythmic chanting of monks. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a curious traveller, or someone who simply enjoys mindful moments in nature, this tour is designed to leave you refreshed in both body and soul.
Tour Highlights
- Easy and scenic hike through local trails and forest paths
- Guided visit to Kopan Monastery, home to Tibetan Buddhist monks
- Learn about meditation, mindfulness, and monastic life
- Opportunity to observe or join a brief meditation session
- Panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayan foothills
- Perfect for travelers with limited time who seek a meaningful experience
Itinerary
08:00 AM – Hotel Pickup & Drive to Budhanilkantha
Your journey begins with a comfortable private drive to Budhanilkantha, where the hike starts from the base of Shivapuri National Park.
09:00 AM—Begin Scenic Hike Toward Kopan
Enjoy a peaceful 2-hour hike along village trails, pine forests, and terraced fields. The route offers quiet surroundings, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and glimpses of daily local life.
11:00 AM – Explore Kopan Monastery
Arrive at Kopan Monastery (1,350m) and explore its peaceful grounds. Visit the main gompa (prayer hall), Buddhist library, and monastery gardens. Your guide will share insights about the Lamrim teachings, the daily life of monks, and the monastery’s history.
Noon – Optional Meditation or Monastic Interaction
Depending on the day, you may be invited to join a short meditation session or speak with a resident monk about Buddhist philosophy.
01:00 PM – Lunch with a View
Enjoy a light vegetarian meal or refreshment at the monastery café, overlooking lush hills and the valley below.
02:30 PM – Drive Back to Kathmandu
Return to the city with a sense of inner calm and a deeper appreciation of Nepal’s spiritual culture.
03:30 PM – Drop-off at Your Hotel
The tour ends with a hotel drop-off and a peaceful smile on your face.
Cost Includes
- Private round-trip transportation from your hotel
- Friendly English-speaking guide
- Monastery entry and donation fees
- Mineral water and light snacks
- All government taxes and service charges
Cost Excludes
- Lunch or drinks (available at your own cost)
- Personal expenses or tips
- Travel insurance
Notes
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
What do I need to bring?
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Modest clothing for a monastery visit
- Small daypack with water bottle
- Open heart and a respectful attitude
Know more before you go
Minimum age of participants is: 2