Ranikot to Balthali and Namo Buddha Trek - 3 Days

159 Reviews in Tripadvisor
Recommended by 99% of Travelers
Duration
3 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Maximum Altitude
1982 M
Group Size
Max 12 Person
Activities
Trekking, Hiking
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Best Time
Sept, Oct, Nov, Dec
Photos

The Ranikot to Balthali and Namo Buddha Trek is a short and easy Kathmandu Trek. The first day, we ride to Bhaktapur, then a short hike of 2 to 3 hours to Ranikot, which rewards you with a great sunset view of the day, viewing some of the highest peaks in the world. On day two, we hike to Balthali, where you can experience some of the best rural life and beautiful villages close to Kathmandu, and on the third day, we hike to Namo Buddha, one of the holiest Buddhist sacred sites, and after the exploration of this holy site, we drive back to Kathmandu to conclude the trip. 

Key highlights:

  • Walk the Forest Trails to a Viewpoint of Panoramic Peaks Over the Himalaya.
  • Discover Hindu and Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites such as Suryabinayak and Namo Buddha
  • Experience the Unique Nepali culture and traditional village life.
  • Escape the busy and crowded city life of Kathmandu and embark on a peaceful retreat.
  • Best Accommodation at Balthali Village Resort and Ranikot.
  • Explore the Spiritual Buddhist Site of Namo Buddha.
  • One of the "Best Kathmandu Treks"

Ranikot to Balthali and Namo Buddha Trek Overview

Ranikot to Balthali and Namo Buddha Trek begins at Kathmandu, followed by a drive to Bhaktapur and to the village of Ranikot Hill, a peaceful contrast to the hustle of Kathmandu. The trail itself is a delight—a moderate hike through lush green forests, terraced fields, and traditional Nepali hamlets. It’s challenging enough to feel rewarding but accessible to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. The true crown jewel of the first day, however, is Ranikot - the best Kathmandu Trek in Nepal

The view from Ranikot can be a memory in your travel life. Perched on a strategic hilltop, the panoramic vista unfolds like a living painting. To the north, the snow-capped peaks of the Langtang Himal, Gauri Shankar, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu Ranges glisten under the sun. To the south, the rolling Mahabharat hills and endless green valleys stretch to the horizon. It’s the perfect spot for photos, quiet contemplation, and realizing just how beautiful Nepal is.

In our 3-day itinerary, Balthali Village Resort and Namobuddha are your second-day and third-day destinations: Balthali Village Resort is the ideal retreat. Nestled on a serene hill, the resort offers comfortable lodgings with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and rivers. The hospitality is warm, the food is delicious and locally sourced, and the atmosphere is profoundly peaceful. Waking up to the misty morning views and the sound of birds is an experience in itself.

Another religious and spiritual highlight of the trip is a visit to Namo Buddha, one of Nepal’s most sacred Buddhist sites. The serene stupa, fluttering prayer flags, and the profound spiritual energy of the place are humbling. The story of the Buddha’s sacrifice, commemorated here, adds deep meaning to the visit. It’s a short drive or a pleasant hike from Balthali and an absolute must-do.

You can also visit Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery at Namo Buddha, where monks perform daily puja prayers and participate in ritual activities at 6 AM. Wilderness Excursion and our local guide with deep knowledge elevate the endeavor to make your trip exceptional, a great trip arranger, flawlessly

The Ranikot to Namo Buddha via Balthali Trek is a hidden gem, offering a compact yet complete Nepali experience—nature, culture, and breathtaking views. When you combine this beautiful route with the expert guidance, we guarantee you an unforgettable hiking holiday.

Lastly,
This trek is best for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families looking for an authentic and rejuvenating escape from Kathmandu. This isn’t just a trek; it’s a journey for the soul and spiritual insight for everyone. If you are looking for a trek which a bit higher and longer, you may consider a Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Annapurna that starts and ends at the lake city of Pokhara, Nepal.

Itinerary
Expand all

Our 2-night 3-day Ranikot – Balthali – Namobuddha hike itinerary is provided as guidelines only. It can be customized or slightly changed if required, considering your pace and trekking habits, which will alter the day-to-day plan.

Still Confuse?
Download brochure or customize your trip.
Cost Details
Includes
  • One registered English-speaking local guide for the Ranikot and Balthali hike.
  • First night's room in the Village Highland Resort on a twin or double sharing basis.
  • Second night room in Balthali Village Resort on a twin/double occupancy basis.
  • Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners during the tour.
  • Mineral water during the tour.
  • Private ground transportation to and from the trekking,
  • Guide fee and all his / her expenses.
  • Local tax and service charges.
Excludes
  • Transportation, accommodation & meals in Kathmandu / Bhaktapur
  • Bar drinks and beverages such as coke, fanta, can juice, etc.
  • Personal travel insurance and hiking gear.
  • Personal nature expenses such as toiletries, phone calls, and laundry service.
  • Rescue operation in case of emergency.
  • Tipping your your guide/driver
Add-ons & Options

Wilderness Excursion – with 14 years of excellence in planning and arranging Nepal Trekking Tours with expertise, we offer a selection of add-ons (extra services) to make your trip booking easy and customize the trek in one place.

  • Airport Pick Up USD 20: Airport pick up and drop off service by private vehicle will cost an extra USD 20
  • Kathmandu Day Tour USD 85: Guided day tour to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhu, Patan, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
  • Accommodation Booking in Kathmandu USD 120: Extra nights hotel booking in Kathmandu pre and post Ranikot to Namo Buddha Trek deluxe room cost USD 120 per double room with breakfast a night in Hotel Mulberry Or Similar.
Dates & Availability
Select Departure Dates
Dec 2025
Jan 2026
Feb 2026
Mar 2026
Apr 2026
May 2026
Jun 2026
Jul 2026
Aug 2026
Sep 2026
Oct 2026
Nov 2026
Dec 2026
Departure Date
Starts: Dec 16, 2025Ends: Dec 18, 2025
Price
US$279
US$299
Status
Available
Departure Date
Starts: Dec 20, 2025Ends: Dec 22, 2025
Price
US$279
US$299
Status
Available
Departure Date
Starts: Dec 23, 2025Ends: Dec 25, 2025
Price
US$279
US$299
Status
Available
Departure Date
Starts: Dec 27, 2025Ends: Dec 29, 2025
Price
US$279
US$299
Status
Available
Departure Date
Starts: Dec 30, 2025Ends: Jan 01, 2026
Price
US$279
US$299
Status
Available

Check our dates published to see if they match your time. We are happy to customize your tour perfectly to match your interests and needs, creating a unique travel experience just for you

Essential Information

Best time of the year to go Ranikot Trek with Balthali and Namo Buddha

The best times or the months for the Ranikot Namo Buddha Trek are after September, when the months are dry and blue sky: Autumn (September to November) for crisp air and panoramic mountain views.

Hiking in Winter (December to February) is also okay, though the temperature can be a bit cold. Some warm clothing is essential to pack for the trip.

Going on the Spring Season (April to May) can be a warm and misty view. Hike in summer monsoon (June-Sept) is generally wet and rainy, and slippery trails.

Accommodation in this trip.

We include 2 nights rooms for the trip. Accommodation will be on a double or twin occupancy basis with proper bedding air-conditioned room.
First night in: Village Highland Resort at Ranikot.
Second Night in: Balthali Village resort

Food and drinks:

Our package cost includes a decent Nepali Thali set meal for dinner in the resort accommodations listed in the service details. You are a continental breakfast, and for lunch, select from a menu as per your choice.

For the hot table drinks, you can have tea, coffee any style from the menu. For beverages and liquor drinks, there are proper bars. You can have a variety of branded drinks, paying extra for personal expenses.

There are no banks or ATM, you are suggested to carry extra money for personal expenses for e.g., Drinks and tips, etc.

Ranikot to Balthali and Namo Buddha Trek - 3 Days FAQs

Ranikot and Balthali hiking is popular hiking route located in Bhaktapur and Panauti which near Kathmandu. This short trek that offer great views of the Himalayas, traditional villages, terraced farms, and lush landscapes, accessible from areas like Bhaktapur and Panauti, providing a mix of cultural immersion and natural beauty just a short drive from the city.

This short trek to Ranikot to Balthai and Namobuddha offer great scenery and panoramic view with hiking through traditional villages, terraced farms, and lush landscapes, accessible from areas like Bhaktapur and perfect trek for short time trekkers near Kathmandu.

Yes, a beginner hiker can go hiking in Ranikot and Balthali, as both are considered accessible trails suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. The Balthali Village hiking trail is described as easy with gradual ascents and well-marked paths, while Ranikot is also noted as suitable for beginners. The overall Namobuddha-Balthali trail is accessible to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.

Yes, the accommodation at Ranikot and Balthali has WiFi internet, and you can work online in the evening and morning while enjoying morning tea with a great view. Sometimes you lack strong, reliable broadband and having a poor connection, but you can have decent mobile data if you subscribe, making it better for remote work.

You can hike this route throughout the year, though best suggested times to trek Ranikot and Balthali in Autumn (September-November). The route is warm in spring (Mar to May) and wet and humid in monsoon time (June to August), views affected by rain and clouds.

There are no ATMs or Banks on this route; please be advised to bring enough cash from Kathmandu for your personal expenses.

We suggest you bring warm clothes if you are planning to hike the Ranikot and Balthli Namobuddha route in winter (January to February). It is not freezing cold, but it can be chilly at night and early mornings. The lowest temperature can be 0 degrees celcuous at night outside. But your accommodation is air-conditioned for nights.

What Our Clients are Saying?
based on 3 reviews
39 reviews
25 reviews
3 days hike around Kathmandu with Wilderness Excursion!

Going on a 3-day hike around the Kathmandu Valley with Wilderness Excursion was an absolutely wonderful decision. As first-time visitors to Nepal, we initially hesitated to book online with a local agency, but any doubt was quickly dismissed by their...

read more +
Matt Moser
Matt Moser- United Kingdom
December 07, 2025
Ranikot and Balthali Hiking (November 2025)

We just finished this short trek near Kathmandu. We picked the 3-day Ranokot – Namobuddha Hiking via Balthali listed on the website of Wilderness Excursion. Indeed, it was a good decision. The view was excellent, and very lucky to have...

read more +
David P
David P- United States
November 30, 2025
Review of the Ranikot to Balthali Hike

We, friends of three men, recently did this short 3 days trek of Ranikot to Balthali and ending at Namobuddha. We started our hike from Suryabinayak after discovering this temple of Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu God, according to our guide's...

read more +
Eric A.
Eric A.- United States
November 28, 2025
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