USD 215 per person
“Nagarkot Day Hiking Tour” offers a day trip to the gorgeous village of Nagarkot, located just outside Kathmandu. It is an excellent opportunity to see the majestic Himalayan mountain range, explore the local culture and experience the countryside’s beauty. It is the perfect way to spend a day away from the city hustle and bustle.”
The full-Day Hiking Tour in Nagarkot is the best place for a beautiful sunrise view close to Kathmandu Valley. This hike offers to explore the unique Tamang village and the UNESCO world heritage site of Changunarayan. Especially, this tour escapes you from the exhausting and bustling city of Kathmandu. Moreover, the Nagarkot Hiking Tour offers to treat yourself to the beauty of nature and hike over the beautiful hill of Nagarkot. Nagarkot is 32 km away from Kathmandu Valley. Additionally, it is a beautiful viewpoint that offers magnificent panoramic views of different mountains like Mt. Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishanker, and Mt. Manaslu range.
The place of Nagarkot is a popular place to enjoy the beauty of the majestic sunrise and sunset with snow-capped mountains. Walking through the green hills and lively villages to discover the scenery of the countryside is amazing. This hike presents a chance to mingle with the people and learn about the special cultural traditions. After that, we take the gravel road and local trail to Changunarayan temple.
In short, you will get the opportunity to observe the historical and cultural town at Changunarayan Temple. You will also see the Bhaktapur Village very near to you and the splendid view of the Himalayas on the way. However, the Changunarayan temple is one of the oldest temples and have listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979. After visiting this temple late lunch and you’ll drive back to Kathmandu.
Your guide picks you from hotel and 1hrs drive to eastward Shankhu village. Shankhu also the pilgrimage place for Hindu people where lies the temple of Ma Shree Showsthani. From here your hike begins ascending to Nagarkot passing through the rice terrace field and landscape of the countryside. But after you reach the Nagarkot if the clear day you can have a beautiful Panorama view of the white-capped mountains including the Annapurna range, Manaslu range, Ganesh Himal range, Langtang Himal, Jugal Himal, and Gauri Shanker range. After check-in the Hotel you can have rest and an evening walk for Sunset views from where you can see the best scenic.
This day you have to week up earlier for the Sunrise view over the Himalaya. Then you can take your regular breakfast and then your hike starts to descend to Changu Narayan Temple passing through Tamang villages, a beautiful terrace field with some forest. Changu Narayan is also the biggest Hindu temple around three hundred years old, which is listed in the UNESCO world heritage site. After exploring the temple then drive back to Kathmandu.
Nagarkot is a popular tourist destination in Nepal, known for its stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest. A day hiking tour in Nagarkot offers an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty, culture, and local life of the region. Here's some useful information to help you plan your Nagarkot day hiking tour:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nagarkot for a day hike is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is pleasant, and the skies are usually clear, providing the best views of the mountains.
Hiking Trails: There are several hiking trails in and around Nagarkot. The most popular one is the drive to Shankhu and hike to Nagarkot next Changunarayan hike, which takes about 4-6 hours, depending on your pace. The trail passes through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, offering beautiful views along the way.
Starting Point: The hike typically starts from Nagarkot itself. If you're staying in Kathmandu, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive to reach Nagarkot.
Difficulty Level: The Nagarkot to Changunarayan hike is considered moderate in terms of difficulty. While it's not overly strenuous, there are some uphill and downhill sections, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
Guides and Maps: While the trail is relatively well-marked, it's advisable to hire a local guide for a more enriching experience and to avoid getting lost. Guides can also provide cultural and historical insights into the region. You can arrange for a guide either in Kathmandu or once you reach Nagarkot.
Permits: As of my last update in September 2021, there were no specific permits required for the Nagarkot day hike. However, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or your tour operator for any updates or changes in permit regulations.
What to Carry: It's essential to pack light for the hike. Some essential items to carry include comfortable hiking shoes, a small backpack, a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views.
Sunrise and Sunset: If you have the time and inclination, consider staying overnight in Nagarkot to witness the spectacular sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas. The sunrise view is particularly famous, as the first rays of the sun paint the mountain peaks with golden hues.
Responsible Travel: Remember to respect the local culture and environment. Carry your trash with you and avoid littering. Also, be mindful of the local customs and traditions.
Altitude Considerations: Nagarkot sits at an altitude of around 2,175 meters (7,136 feet), so if you're prone to altitude sickness, take it easy and drink plenty of water during the hike.
Remember that conditions and details may change over time, so it's always a good idea to do some additional research or consult with a local tour operator before embarking on your Nagarkot day hiking tour. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the wonderful experience!
Sure! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Nagarkot Day Hiking Tour:
Q: What is Nagarkot?
Nagarkot is a beautiful hill station located about 32 kilometres east of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is renowned for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days.
Q: How long does the Nagarkot Day Hiking Tour take?
The Nagarkot Day Hiking Tour typically takes around 4 to 6 hours, depending on the specific hiking route and the pace of the group.
Q: What is the best time to go on the Nagarkot Day Hiking Tour?
The best time to go on this hiking tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is usually clear, and you'll have the best chance to witness the breathtaking mountain views.
Q: Do I need any special hiking experience to join the tour?
No, the Nagarkot Day Hiking Tour is generally considered a moderate-level hike suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike. However, a basic level of fitness is recommended, as you will be walking on uneven terrains.
Q: What should I bring for the hike?
You should bring comfortable hiking shoes, a daypack, a water bottle, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a light jacket (the weather can change quickly in the mountains), and some snacks. A camera is also essential to capture the stunning scenery.
Q: Is lunch provided during the tour?
Most likely, the tour package will include lunch. However, it's essential to check with the tour organizer or agency beforehand to confirm the details.
Q: Can I see Mount Everest from Nagarkot?
Yes, on clear days, you can see Mount Everest and other magnificent peaks from Nagarkot's vantage points. The early morning sunrise is especially famous for offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan range.
Q: Are there any cultural attractions to explore in Nagarkot?
Yes, apart from its natural beauty, Nagarkot also offers some cultural attractions, including ancient temples and traditional villages. You may have the opportunity to visit some local villages and interact with the friendly locals.
Q: How do I get to Nagarkot from Kathmandu?
Nagarkot is easily accessible from Kathmandu by road. On our tour, we drive from Kathmandu to Shankhu and hike to Nagarkot next day hike down to Changunarayan and drive back to Kathmandu. But another option is by road it takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu by car or bus. Some tour packages might include transportation from Kathmandu to Nagarkot and back.
Q: Can I do the hike independently, or do I need a guide?
You can do the hike independently if you are an experienced hiker and familiar with the trails. However, having a local guide can enhance your experience as they can provide valuable insights, ensure your safety, and show you the best viewpoints.
Always remember to check the latest travel advisories and conditions before planning any trip, and it's advisable to book your Nagarkot Day Hiking Tour through a reputable travel agency or tour operator.