Kathmandu Valley is blessed with numerous picnic spots that offer a perfect blend of nature, tranquility, and recreational activities. Whether you are looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous day out, here are the top 20 picnic spots near Kathmandu where you can cook, dance, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
1.Godavari Botanical Garden and Picnic Spot
Location: Lalitpur District
Address: Godavari, 14 km southeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: A serene escape from the city, Godavari Botanical Garden is one of the top family picnic spots in Kathmandu Valley. With lush greenery and diverse plant species, this picnic spot is perfect for group activities such as cooking, dancing, and enjoying nature.
Available Services: Dedicated picnic areas, cooking spots, walking trails, restrooms, and parking facilities.
Nature & Beauty: Surrounded by botanical research centers, tranquil ponds, and birdwatching opportunities, it’s a paradise for nature lovers.
2.Chandragiri Hills
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Thankot, 16 km southwest of Kathmandu
About the Place: Chandragiri Hills is known for panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas, making it an ideal destination for group picnics. It’s an excellent place for outdoor activities, including cooking and dancing amidst stunning natural beauty.
Available Services: Cable car rides, picnic areas, cooking spots, restaurants, and playgrounds.
Nature & Beauty: Breathtaking views of the valley, Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, and lush green forests.
3.Nagarkot
Location: Bhaktapur District
Address: Nagarkot, 32 km east of Kathmandu
About the Place: Famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, Nagarkot is one of the best picnic spots near Kathmandu. It’s perfect for those who enjoy cooking, dancing, and experiencing the refreshing mountain air.
Available Services: Picnic areas, cooking spots, resorts, and restaurants.
Nature & Beauty: Panoramic views of the Himalayas, lush greenery, and hiking trails.
4.Sundarijal
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Sundarijal, 15 km northeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: Sundarijal is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and lush forests. It’s a perfect picnic spot where visitors can enjoy cooking, dancing, and relaxing amidst the natural surroundings.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, hiking trails, and parking facilities.
Nature & Beauty: Waterfalls, natural pools, and scenic trekking routes to Chisapani.
5.Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Budhanilkantha, 12 km north of Kathmandu
About the Place: A haven for nature enthusiasts, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park offers dense forests, rich wildlife, and expansive picnic areas where visitors can cook and dance while taking in the sights.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, guided hikes, and restrooms.
Nature & Beauty: Shivapuri Peak, waterfalls, and panoramic valley views.
6.Phulchowki Hill
Location: Lalitpur District
Address: Phulchowki, 20 km southeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: The highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley, Phulchowki Hill is perfect for day trips filled with cooking, dancing, and exploration.
Available Services: Picnic areas, cooking spots, hiking trails, and local guides.
Nature & Beauty: Rhododendron forests, panoramic Himalayan views, and birdwatching opportunities.
7.Dhulikhel
Location: Kavrepalanchok District
Address: Dhulikhel, 30 km east of Kathmandu
About the Place: Dhulikhel is a charming hill station offering stunning mountain views and plenty of space for group picnics, including cooking and dancing.
Available Services: Resorts, picnic areas, cooking spots, and hiking trails.
Nature & Beauty: Traditional Newari architecture, temples, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
8.Kakani
Location: Nuwakot District
Address: Kakani, 23 km northwest of Kathmandu
About the Place: Known for its strawberry farms and trout fishing, Kakani is an ideal spot for a picnic with activities like cooking, dancing, and enjoying the serene mountain environment.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, trout fishing facilities, and local eateries.
Nature & Beauty: Panoramic views of the Langtang Range, forest trails, and local farms.
9.Bajrayogini Temple
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Sankhu, 20 km northeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: A historic Tantric temple on a hilltop, Bajrayogini Temple offers a peaceful picnic environment perfect for cooking, dancing, and exploring spirituality.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, meditation spaces, and local guides.
Nature & Beauty: Lush forests, traditional Newari village, and temple festivals.
10.Taudaha Lake
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Taudaha, 6 km southwest of Kathmandu
About the Place: Taudaha Lake is a serene picnic spot surrounded by hills. It’s ideal for activities like cooking, dancing, and birdwatching.
Available Services: Picnic areas, cooking spots, boating facilities, and nearby cafes.
Nature & Beauty: Birdwatching, especially migratory birds, and peaceful lakeside walks.
11.Panauti
Location: Kavrepalanchok District
Address: Panauti, 32 km southeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: A historic town filled with traditional Newari architecture, Panauti is a great place for a cultural picnic with options to cook, dance, and explore the local heritage.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, local eateries, and cultural tours.
Nature & Beauty: Temples, traditional houses, and riverside views.
12.Kulekhani (Indra Sarovar)
Location: Makwanpur District
Address: Kulekhani, 40 km southwest of Kathmandu
About the Place: Kulekhani Reservoir is a picturesque location perfect for activities like boating, fishing, cooking, and dancing in a lakeside setting.
Available Services: Boating, fishing, picnic spots, cooking areas, and local eateries.
Nature & Beauty: Scenic lake views, nearby forests, and trekking trails.
13. Switzerland Park
Location: Nagarjun, Kathmandu
Address: Switzerland Park, Nagarjun Forest Reserve, 8 km northwest of Kathmandu
About the Place: Switzerland Park is a beautiful picnic spot nestled within the Nagarjun Forest Reserve. It’s named for its picturesque landscape that resembles the serene meadows of Switzerland.
Available Services: Picnic areas, benches, cooking spots, restrooms, and parking facilities.
Nature & Beauty: Surrounded by lush green forests, the park offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. It’s an ideal location for family picnics where you can cook, relax, and enjoy nature.
Activities: Visitors can engage in hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The cool breeze and tranquil environment make it a perfect retreat from the bustling city life.
14. Balthali Village
Location: Kavrepalanchok District
Address: Balthali, 40 km southeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: A serene village surrounded by terraced fields and forests, Balthali is perfect for picnics that include cooking, dancing, and nature walks.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, homestays, and guided village tours.
Nature & Beauty: Panoramic views of the Himalayas, traditional village life, and nearby Namo Buddha.
15. Lakuri Bhanjyang
Location: Lalitpur District
Address: Lakuri Bhanjyang, 13 km southeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: Known for its scenic beauty, Lakuri Bhanjyang offers panoramic views of the valley and mountains, making it an ideal spot for a day of cooking, dancing, and enjoying nature.
Available Services: Picnic areas, cooking spots, hiking guides, and local eateries.
Nature & Beauty: Mountain views, lush forests, and peaceful picnic spots.
16. Ichangu Narayan
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Ichangu, 7 km west of Kathmandu
About the Place: A peaceful village with a historic temple, Ichangu Narayan is a quiet spot for cooking, dancing, and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding hills.
Available Services: Picnic areas, cooking spots, local guides, and restrooms.
Nature & Beauty: Ancient temple, village walks, and scenic views.
17. Gokarna Forest Resort
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Gokarna, 10 km northeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: A luxury resort set within a lush forest, Gokarna Forest Resort offers a serene environment for cooking, dancing, and outdoor activities.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, golf course, spa, and restaurants.
Nature & Beauty: Nature walks, birdwatching, and a golf course.
18. Hattiban Resort
Location: Lalitpur District
Address: Hattiban, 12 km south of Kathmandu
About the Place: Situated on a hilltop, Hattiban Resort offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the valley, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic with cooking and dancing.
Available Services: Picnic areas, cooking spots, hiking trails, and on-site restaurants.
Nature & Beauty: Panoramic views, nearby temples, and forest walks.
19. Chovar Gorge
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Chovar, 9 km southwest of Kathmandu
About the Place: Known for its natural gorge and historic temple, Chovar Gorge is a unique spot for a day out with cooking, dancing, and enjoying scenic views.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, local guides, and parking facilities.
Nature & Beauty: The Chovar Gorge, historic temples, and scenic views of the Bagmati River.
20. Sankhu
Location: Kathmandu
Address: Sankhu, 17 km northeast of Kathmandu
About the Place: An ancient Newari town, Sankhu offers a cultural experience along with ample space for cooking, dancing, and enjoying the surrounding nature.
Available Services: Picnic areas, cooking spots, local eateries, and historical tours.
Nature & Beauty: Traditional Newari town, historical sites, and festivals.
21. Jhor Waterfall
Location: Tokha, Kathmandu
Address: Jhor Mahankal, Tokha, 11 km north of Kathmandu
About the Place: Jhor Waterfall is a hidden gem located in the northern part of Kathmandu. Known for its scenic waterfall that cascades down from the hills, it creates a refreshing and peaceful ambiance.
Available Services: Picnic spots, cooking areas, restrooms, and small local eateries.
Nature & Beauty: The area around the waterfall is lush and green, providing a cool and relaxing environment. The sound of the cascading water adds to the peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for picnics.
These picnic spots around Kathmandu Valley provide the perfect setting for cooking, dancing, and enjoying the natural beauty of Nepal. Each location offers unique services and experiences, ensuring a memorable day out with family and friends.
