Summer is approaching, and what better way to beat the heat than by dipping into a cool swimming pool? But you know what’s better? Swimming in a natural waterfall that defines nature’s authenticity and natural beauty.
The beauty of the Sisneri natural swimming pool, along with the cold, crystal-clear, aqua-green water, is the main attraction of this place. The water in the Sisneri pool is so clear that you can sometimes see fish inside the water.
Away from the crowd and noise, Sisneri is a perfect place for you to relax and spend some time with your loved ones this summer near Kathmandu. Whether you’re planning a swimming trip, a picnic, or camping, Sisneri can be your go-to destination this summer.
Swimming pool in Sisneri
The renowned Sisneri pool is fed by a stream, providing crystal-clear, chilled water that is so lucid that sometimes you can see fish swimming underneath. It’s a very scenic spot surrounded by big boulders and lush vegetation, perfect for a dip or for enjoying the great outdoors.
The main pool has deep, slippery stones, so it is best for good swimmers and never dive unless you’re an expert. Life jackets are available for the benefit of safety, and normally, a minor entrance fee of around NPR 50 is attached.
Nearby, smaller pools are offering shallower alternatives that can be reached with a few-minute hike if you prefer a quiet dip. People often leap from a big rock right near the main pool for the thrill of the jump.
How far is Sisneri from Kathmandu?
The most popular route is from Dakshinkali to Sisneri, about 33 kilometers from Kathmandu. The other way is via Bhaisepati, which is relatively shorter but narrow and rough for driving.
From these two routes, Dakshinkali is the famous route taken on almost all occasions by travelers; the other one goes through Markhu, which is about 49 kilometers away from Thamel. This road goes through Balkhu and Chovar and reaches Dakshinkali. Dakshinkali is about 14 km from Kathmandu and will take about an hour to reach.
Due to poor road conditions, it will take more time to reach Sisneri from Kathmandu. Sisneri is about 19 km from Dakshinkali and will take more than an hour by private vehicle.
Sisneri route map
Sisneri is indeed a perfect place to spend a day outside the Kathmandu Valley and Hetauda. After a strenuous day swimming in the natural pools, you can stay overnight at Chitlang or Markhu.
Chhaimale Resort also has an option to spend a night at Sisneri. However, Kathmandu is only 3 hours away from Sisneri, giving you enough time to return to the valley or head to Chitlang for the night.
If you’re thinking about how you can reach Sisneri from Kathmandu, there are two primary routes:
1. Dakshinkali Route
Distance: Sisneri is 33 km southwest of Kathmandu
- Take a bus or your private vehicle from Balkhu. Then, Chovar-Taudaha-Dakshinkali via paved roads.
- After Dakshinkali, take the off-road route toward Chhaimale Resort.
- You will need to pass a police checkpoint and then cross a suspension bridge and turn left toward the river.
- You will continue driving until you reach Sisneri.
Transport:
- We recommend taking your private vehicle (car/jeep/bike) since public transport is limited.
- For those who want to take a ride over the beautiful mountain terrains, you can get motorbike tours with guided trips that include a pick-up and drop-off facility and lunch.
Key considerations
- Road conditions: The off-road portion is quite rough and is affected by landslides during rain.
- Entry fee: Rs 50 per person for pool access, including simple amenities like changing rooms.
- Nearby destinations: Combine the tour with visits to Dakshinkali Temple, Chitlang, or Chhaimale Resort.
2. Markhu route
Distance: From Thamel, Sisneri is 49 km.
- From Thamel, drive to Gurjudhara Chowk. Then, Markhu-Kulekhani Dam-Khanikhet-Sisneri.
- En route, you can stop at the scenic Kulekhani Dam.
Key considerations:
- Road conditions: Rainy seasons may bring landslides or wild shrubs that may block the paths
- Hiking options: For those who prefer hiking, you can travel through the less-traveled trail from Dakshinkali, where you may have to navigate leeches and slippery terrain
Hiking to Sisneri
The Sisneri hike from Kathmandu is a pleasant escape from urban chaos, blending adventure and scenic beauty with a unique chance to see rural Nepal. It is located at about 1,479 meters, right above an exquisite natural pool formed by a stream coming down the surrounding hills. One can witness lush green forests, rocky streams, and panoramic views in this place.
This moderately challenging hike offers an ideal venue for a day hike or a refreshing weekend trip. The hike takes you through off-the-beaten trails and scenic countryside, with some steep trails depending on where you start.
How to reach the hiking starting point?
Since there is no continuous hiking trail from Kathmandu to Sisneri, a well-known trip to Sisneri usually involves driving for some distance and then hiking afterward. Most people travel to places such as Dakshinkali or Fakhel after they get to Kathmandu. Here are the approaches:
1. Dakshinkali route
The Dakshinkali route is the most famous. It is situated about 22 kilometers from the capital city of Kathmandu (a good hour to an hour and a half). You begin from Kathmandu (like in Balkhu or Ratnapark), drive via Chobhar, Taudaha, and Pharping, and eventually reach the Dakshinkali Temple.
Hiking starts from here. Either you drive onwards to Sisneri Bazaar (about 19 km from Dakshinkali on mostly off-road), reaching the natural swimming pool after trekking for around 5-6 km in 1-2 hours, or you directly hike from Dakshinkali to Sisneri Bazaar in about 4-5 hours.
Trail Highlights: The Dakshinkali route provides the sight of quaint villages, terraced fields, and flowing rivers down there. You will walk through those areas frequented by the temple pilgrims.
2. Fakhel route
The Fakhel Route to the Sisneri Natural Swimming Pool provides an opportunity for an enjoyable and scenic hike. Fakhel is located about 25-30 kilometers from Kathmandu by motorable road.
From there, the hike can begin to be fully enjoyed. From Fakhel, the trek to Sisneri Bazaar takes about 4-5 hours, filled with green forests and rolling hills, along with calming views. This is the ideal trek for those wanting to experience nature in all its glory as much as possible.
The journey is moderate because of the length and terrain, but the natural beauty and serenity of the hike make it rewarding. Put your feet in the crystal-clear waters of the natural swimming pool at Sisneri and see what else is in the neighborhood.
Trail highlights: Unlike Dakshinkali, this trail in Nepal is almost entirely shadowed, and peace will be your companion in equally beautiful open countryside. It is also a fine choice for winter when the main road at Dakshinkali is apt to become muddy or damaged after landslides.
3. Chobar route
The hiking trail from Chobhar to Sisneri stretches out as an extended scenic trek towards the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley. Travelers hike from Chobhar, approximately 10 kilometers away from Kathmandu, to Pharping, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Traveling down this route leads south towards Dakshinkali, a very important Hindu pilgrimage site packed with devotees, before reaching the final destination, Sisneri Bazaar. Much longer than the actual drive times, this route takes about 6-8 hours.
Starting with a historical and cultural site like Chobhar, known for its gorge and ancient temple, this trek leads through a landscape of mixed urbanity and forests. As one gets further away from Pharping and toward Sisneri, the settlements gradually give way to dense trees and more rugged terrain.
Trail Highlights: This whole trail shows off by giving breathtaking views of Kathmandu Valley at the initial stage, starting from Chobhar, then showing mixed paths of forest and rural paths.
Practical Tips
What to Bring:
- Hiking shoes with grip for an uneven surface.
- A swimsuit, a towel, and dry clothes for swimming.
- Water, snacks, and a light lunch (limited options for food available at the poolside).
- A facemask for dusty roads while driving and insect repellent to counteract leeches in the rainy season.
Food and Accommodation:
- There are small tea shops and eateries available in Sisneri Bazaar for local snacks and meals like selroti and puri-tarkari.
- Overnight stays can also be arranged for those interested at the Chaimale Resort.
Safety Conditions:
- Make sure to check weather conditions; avoid the monsoon trail if possible due to landslides.
- Preferably, arrange in a group so that solo hikers are safe.
- Do your best not to litter to protect the natural site.
What to expect?
1. Natural Beauty
The center of attraction is the crystal-clear aqua-green natural swimming pool, which is surrounded by big stones and fed by flowing water from the hills in the vicinity. The water is so clear that you can make out fish swimming beneath the surface, while the cool temperature makes it a perfect reprieve from the summer heat.
2. Activities
Swimming and diving from the rocks are common activities already drawing in scores of the youth. However, the pool’s depth varies with the seasons, being high post-monsoon but shallower in summer; this notwithstanding, it is mostly deep enough for a good swim. The smaller pools nearby are good alternatives should the main one become too lively.
3. Atmosphere
Prepare for a lively outing wherein locals and foreigners flock into the water, take photographs, and loaf around. Surrounded by green lushness and panoramic hill views, the setting is thus serene yet invigorating.
4. Facilities
Simply put, basic facilities such as a toilet, a changing room, and showers are available close to the pool, although management could be improved upon. A small fee is collected for entry (around NPR 50). Adequate parking is available for vehicles.
5. Crowds and next timing
It will be very crowded on summer weekends, so getting there early would make for a better experience. The drive from Kathmandu also usually commences in the morning, like at around 8 a.m., so you have time to explore all day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sisneri is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers alike, offering crystal-clear waters and a peaceful escape from the city’s noise. Whether you visit for swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing, it’s the perfect destination to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty.
To make the most of your trip, consider extending your stay at Chitlang Organic Village Resort, where you can immerse yourself in organic living and enjoy a tranquil environment that complements the serene experience at Sisneri.
FAQs
1. How safe are natural swimming pools?
Ans Natural swimming pools are filtered naturally by the aquatic organisms and plants, thus making it quite safe and healthy to swim in such pools. However, they can sometimes be risky to swim during the monsoon and at high tides.
2. What is the best time to visit the Sisneri pool?
Ans: Summer, without a doubt, is the best time to visit Sisneri if you’re planning to dip into the water. If you prefer hiking, spring or autumn is considered the best season.
