Pulchowki. About 2,700 meters above sea level, Pulchowki is the tallest hill top surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. Visitors will enjoy bird-watching and nature hikes in the thick forests. More than 250 bird species have been sighted here as well as barking deer, leopard, and bear.

Chandragiri provides excellent hikes and a commanding view of the Kathmandu Valley. The best approach is from Hattiban. Though the vegetation is sparse, the culture is rich and you will see farmers, houses, and rice fields as you climb up. However, the upper reaches of Chandragiri are dry and uninhabited. Be sure to take plenty of water.

Nagarjun is named after a famous sage. There is a stupa at the top and the forest is well known for its animal life. Controlled by the army, the animal life is protected here and the forest is also known as the Queen's Forest. Leopard, deer, birds, squirrel, and other animal species may be seen and the hill tracks are perfect for mountain biking as well.

Shivapuri. Shivapuri provides most of the water to the Kathmandu Valley and among the hills, it is closest to the high Himalaya. The wildlife sighting here is also excellent as the park has access to wider lands and areas behind the Kathmandu Valley. You may wish to visit the Buddhist monastery set high on the hill.