Dhap Dam Hike

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Overview

  • Duration:1 day 0 nights
  • Travelers:2 - 12 guests
  • Difficulty:Moderate
  • Max Altitude:2,300 m
  • Walking Distance:18 - 20 km
  • Walking Time:6 - 7 hrs

Sundarijal ➔ Mulkharka ➔ Chisapani ➔ Dhap Dam


Starting from the edge of the Kathmandu Valley, the Dhap Dam hike through Chisapani offers an invigorating journey into the pristine landscapes of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. This single-day circuit combines steep stone staircases, deep woodland solitude, high-altitude village life, and the serene expanse of a fresh mountain reservoir. It stands out as one of the most complete single-day trekking experiences accessible from the capital.


The trek opens with a steady climb out of Sundarijal, following the torrents of rushing river water and forested hillsides up to the hillside settlement of Mulkharka. As the trail ascends higher toward the ridge at Chisapani, dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests envelope the route. On clear days, reaching the ridgeline rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramas of the northern Himalayas, stretching from the Langtang range to distant eastern peaks.

From Chisapani, the trail transitions onto quiet forest paths winding toward Dhap Dam. Nestled amidst rolling green hills, this modern rockfill reservoir supplies fresh water to the Bagmati River basin while creating a peaceful alpine atmosphere. The broad open setting surrounding the lake allows ample space to unwind before embarking on the descent back to Sundarijal. Dense canopy cover, cultural encounters in mountain hamlets, and varied terrain make this circuit both physically rewarding and visually captivating.

Highlights

  • Panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan ranges from Chisapani village
  • Tranquil water reservoir of Dhap Dam amidst dense pine and oak forest
  • Traditional Tamang culture and stone architecture in Mulkharka village
  • Shaded forest paths inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
  • Crystal clear water cascades and historic hydroelectric works near Sundarijal
Itinerary

07:00 AM — Hotel Pickup

Your adventure begins right from your accommodation in Kathmandu. Our guide meets you in the lobby, ready to brief you on the route before we board private transport toward the northeastern edge of the valley.

08:00 AM — Sundarijal

Vehicle transportation finishes at the main Sundarijal entrance. After national park permits are checked, a brief moment allows for trail preparation near the historic water supply station.

08:15 AM — Ascent through Mulkharka

The walking portion opens with a steep stone step climb alongside roaring waterfalls and water reservoir pipes. Passing through small farmsteads, we reach the Tamang village of Mulkharka, where wide hillside views over the Kathmandu Valley begin to unfold.

10:45 AM — Chisapani

Reaching the mountain village of Chisapani at 2,300 meters marks our highest elevation point. We pause here to soak in broad vistas of the snow-capped Langtang and Gaurishankar ranges while enjoying hot tea and snacks at a local lodge.

11:45 AM — Trek to Dhap Dam

Leaving the village behind, our route turns eastward onto a peaceful woodland track. The trail gently contours through dense pine forests and quiet mountain ridges, providing cool shade and comfortable walking conditions.

01:15 AM — Dhap Dam

We arrive at the impressive lake embankment of Dhap Dam, situated in a quiet forest basin. Here we take an extended break to walk along the reservoir perimeter, capture photographs of the surrounding landscape, and enjoy a nourishing lunch.

02:15 AM — Descent to Sundarijal

Our circuit continues downhill, following a winding forest trail that weaves past small mountain streams. Gravity works in our favor as we step through deep woods and return to the main park route.

04:45 AM — Sundarijal

The foot portion of our journey concludes back at the Sundarijal trailhead. After a brief rest and celebration of the completed circuit, private transport awaits for the drive back to the city.

05:45 AM — Hotel Drop-off

Our private vehicle delivers you back to your hotel door. You conclude the day with tired legs and memorable moments from the high ridges of Shivapuri.

Includes / Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Private transportation
  • Shivapuri National Park permit
  • Professional guide
  • Meal and drinking water
  • Govt. taxes and service charges
  • Basic first aid support
  • Personal expenses
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Extra food and snacks
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for the guide (optional)
  • Emergency evacuation
  • Anything not mentioned under “Includes”

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

from$ 50 /person
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