Nagarkot Sunrise View & Day Hike to Changunarayan from Kathmandu

Kathmandu , Nepal

Nagarkot Sunrise View & Day Hike to Changunarayan from Kathmandu

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(24 reviews)

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Nagarkot to Changu Narayan hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the outskirts of the Kathmandu valley. The hike which takes around 3-4 hours to the most begins from the hill station, Nagarkot. With distinctive views of the Himalayas surrounding the miniature yet fascinating Kathmandu valley, the Nagarkot to Changu Narayan hike is a paradise walk for enthusiastic hikers. The hike trails along a Tamang village and presents the unity among the people amidst cultural diversity.

Nagarkot is a hill station which is a well-known tourist destination. Every year thousands of tourist flock the area to view the mesmerizing scenes of the high standing peaks and the Kathmandu valley below it. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Changu Narayan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known to have been around since the ancient time of Kirat. The Changu Narayan temple is a holy pilgrimage for many cultures and has been around since thousands of years

Available options

Car to Nagarkot Sunrise

Car and Driver !!<br/>Pickup included

Nagarkot Sunrise View & Day Hike to Changunarayan from Kathmandu

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Driver

Detailed itinerary

Nagarkot is a popular hill station located in Nepal, just east of the Kathmandu Valley. It's renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains, including famous peaks like Mount Everest and Langtang Lirung. Nagarkot View Tower, also known as Nagarkot Tower or Nagarkot Sunrise Tower, is a popular attraction in the area that offers a fantastic vantage point to enjoy these breathtaking views.

Visitors often wake up early in the morning to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot View Tower. The sight of the first light of day hitting the snow-capped peaks is a memorable and serene experience. Besides sunrise views, the tower provides a beautiful vista of the surrounding landscapes, including lush hills and terraced fields.

Nagarkot is a great destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, as it offers a peaceful and picturesque environment.

The Nagarkot Buddha Peace Park Hiking Trail is a popular trekking route in Nepal, located in the vicinity of Nagarkot, a scenic hill station situated about 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. This trail offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and spiritual significance.

Key highlights of the Nagarkot Buddha Peace Park Hiking Trail:

Scenic Views: The trail provides stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including famous peaks like Mount Everest, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa. The sunrise and sunset views from Nagarkot are particularly famous and draw visitors from all over the world.

Peace Park: The Nagarkot Buddha Peace Park, also known as the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail, is home to a beautiful Buddha statue. The park is a place of tranquility and meditation, offering visitors a serene and peaceful environment.

Stop 3

The Changu Narayan Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. It is one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley due to its historical and cultural significance. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, and is considered one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal.

Here are some key points about Changu Narayan Temple:

Location: Changu Narayan Temple is situated on a hilltop in the Changu Village, approximately 22 kilometers to the east of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The location offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the Himalayan mountains.

Architecture: The temple is renowned for its ancient and intricate architecture. It features a two-tiered pagoda-style structure with beautifully carved wooden struts and intricate stone sculptures. The temple's design is a fine example of traditional Newari architecture, which is prevalent in the Kathmandu Valley.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Personal shopping

You can buy continental Breakfast over there at 5 USD.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

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4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

22 reviews

5★

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2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel Nagarkot is a popular tourist destination due to the change to observe the majestic views of the Himalayan range surrounding the Kathmandu Valley down below. On a clear day, the snowy peaks can be visible around the crest. The Tamang Village as per its name is filled with the Tamang community that is particularly known to be kind and warm to outsiders. Generally their three stories thatched houses are built by their local craftsmen. Local wine making is also a common practice in the area. The initial part of the hike encounters with the cultural aspect while the second half is all about natural beauty and tranquility. Since Changunarayan is located at a height, the views of the valley far down below can be witnesses along with the hills and mountain ranges up above.

Important notes

• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• you can whatsapp on +9779851053265(Ghan)

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Pashupatinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.

Religious 2-3 hours Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.

Religious/Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kathmandu Durbar Square

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.

Historical/Architectural Half-day trip NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dal Bhat

A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)

Momo

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.

Snack/Appetizer Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan

Sel Roti

A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)

Gundruk

A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.

Side Dish Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free

Popular Activities

Trekking Mountain biking Paragliding Rafting Yoga and meditation retreats Spa treatments Café hopping Gardening

Best Time to Visit

October to November and March to April

These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

20-30°C (68-86°F) 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Nepali
Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Time Zone

Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
• Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Galkopul, Kalanki

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Thamel Boudha Patan (Lalitpur) Bhaktapur

Day trips

Nagarkot

32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.

Dhulikhel

30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.

Changunarayan

18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.

Festivals

Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year) Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year) Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn