Hike. Sarangkot-Kaskikot

TLDR;

• Do it yourself or with a guide.
• Flexible day Hike. Between 1-5 hours, based on how long you want to go.
• Don't forget to carry a bottle of water.
• Maps. The hiking trail really starts from Sarangkot Mountain Lodge, feel free to ask the staff there if you can't find the beginning.
  

Walking through the forest, overlooking the distant green hills.

Sarangkot-Kaskikot ridge extending up to Lumle is a stretch that is the the rainiest place in all of Nepal. That is to say that it's full of nature, which makes it a great hiking trail. Perhaps the most special feature of this trail is that it stays relatively flat but since you'll be walking mostly on the top of the hill (or mountain, as some would like to call), you'll get great views throughout the hike.

One of the other highlights of this hike, besides the nature, is the historic Kaskikot palace. Although the palace is more like a temple now than a fort, the significance of this place in Nepal's monarchial history is great. The ruler of Kaskikot, Kulamandan Shah is regarded as the founder of the Shah dynasty in Nepal whose last king was Gyanendra Shah until monarchy ended in Nepal in 2008. At the time of Kulamandan shah's ruling, it is believed that Sarangkot used to be one of the major army bases of the Kaskikot kingdom. In fact, the name Sarangkot comes from its history of being the battleground for playing "Sarang" (which is a Nepali word for a kind of sword fighting game).

Solo Hike

If you want to do this hike on your own, please take a look at the hiking trail map we have built on top of Google Maps. If you use GPS and follow the map, you should be fine. Note that the hiking trail really starts from Sarangkot Mountain Lodge. Upon reaching the lodge, you can ask the staff if you are not able to locate the start of the trail. They'll gladly assist you.

Guided Hike Option

You can also choose to hike with a local guide which will give you a better chance of knowing more about nature and culture during the hike. Following are the details for the guided tour:

• USD 40 for one person. USD 10 extra for every person added after that. ($40 for one, $50 for two, $60 for three, $70 for four, etc.)
• Max group size is eight.
• You'll first drive to Naudada.
• You'll then hike from Naudada to Sarangkot. Some places where the trail along the ridge is too bushy, you'll have to take the road.
• 3 to 5 hours walk depending on your pace.
• We will pack some fruits and sandwich for your hike.
• Make sure to carry a water bottle.
• Wear a hat to avoid the sun.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes.
• No trekking permit required.
• Contact for booking via email: superviewlodge@gmail.com or WhatsApp at +977 9856022610.