There are infinite hiking options inside the Kathmandu Valley, from easy 1-hour hikes to longer routes. It might be surprising but one of the best things about Kathmandu is that there’s always a new hiking route near you waiting to be discovered.
A couple of weeks ago, we went for a hike (our first hike since we came back to Nepal) with our new friends, Stephanie and Khadak.
My favorite kid-friendly hike is the one that is quite easily accessible, not too long or strenuous but moderate enough so you all get a sense of achievement when you finish, with some terrain varieties (including open spaces) and that leads you to a place with an amazing view. Tarebhir is just that. It is no surprise why Tarebhir became one of the newly popular day hikes in Kathmandu.
Watch our Tarebhir Hike with a Toddler Video
Where is Tarebhir?
Tarebhir is located in Gokarneshwor, north of Kathmandu, just below the Shivapuri National Park.
How to get to the starting point of Tarebhir hike?
The hike starts from Krishna Mandir (in Jagdol, Gokarneshwor). You have to climb up to the small path in front of Krishna Mandir.
Map
Visitors Information
Hiking difficulty: Easy – Moderate. This hike is only steep at times and flat. Although it is constantly going uphill, it is a smooth hike up to the top.
Duration: 3 hours up and down.
Entry fee: Free.
Best time to visit: All year except during the monsoon season (avoid July and August).
Where to eat?
We had Dal Bhat at the restaurant ‘Old Village Cottage’, just below Ultimate Venue. Our son also had fresh homemade dahi (curd).
The view from there is amazing.
Other activities in Tarebhir
It is possible to stay overnight at the Tarebhir campsite.
‘Ultimate Venue’ also offers the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of different activities: combat obstacle course, high ropes obstacle, rock climbing, cycling, …
Hiking with babies and kids in Kathmandu
Hiking with kids (particularly with toddlers and babies) can be intimidating. But the earlier you start hiking with your kids, the easier it will become over the years. Having children doesn’t mean you cannot have a hell of adventure. And I am here to prove that hiking can become even better and funnier with kids involved.
It is amazing how the outdoors can bring out the best in kids. If you’re thinking about hiking or trekking with kids in Nepal, just do it. It’s worth it!
Do not postpone. Instead, start gradually with an easy hike. Engaging in a day hike around Kathmandu can be a great first step before heading to your first Himalayan trek with your kids.
Whatever day hike you choose to do in Kathmandu, here are some useful tips that you should know about:
- Bring snacks (a lunch as well if hiking a longer route) and plenty of water. If you hike with a baby, consider stopping along the way for frequent breastfeeding breaks; and if you don’t breastfeed, bring powdered milk and a thermos.
- Do not hike with your kids during the monsoon season (especially with young kids).
- If you hike with a baby or a toddler, do not go without an adequate baby carrier. The best ones go up to 20kg and have a neck support so the little ones can enjoy naps.
- If you hike with a toddler, opt for a route with some flat trails (Tarebhir is a good choice), so, you will be able to make your toddler hike a little as well.
- Cover your kids with a sun hat and sunscreen.
- Bring diapers, wet wipes and travel changing mat. (And take a Ziplock bag with you).
- If your kid is above 4, buy him trekking boots. Below 4, a good pair of sneakers is enough.
- In my experience, the best time to hike with babies and toddlers is in the morning (less whining, more laughter).
If you would like to experience a hike in Kathmandu with your kids (or even trekking the Himalayas with your kids), don’t hesitate to contact me either for advises or meeting other families with kids along the way.
Responsible Travel Guidelines
Plastic Waste in Nepal
If you can, avoid buying plastic water bottles as much as possible during your hikes/treks in Nepal. Plastic waste is a huge problem in Nepal; to reduce your plastic use, carry a thermos flask with purification tablets or a reusable water bottle with you and fill it up when you can (we personally use LifeStraw, it is excellent and very convenient).
Do not litter
Everyone can avoid using plastic bags by using reusable bags, but the problem isn’t only plastic bags. It’s litter. Keep the nature clean and your waste to a minimum –take reusable Ziplock bags with you during your hikes/treks so you can bring back your rubbish with you.
For more travel inspiration in Nepal, visit my Instagram account: paris_kathmandu