Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise & Hike to Changu Narayan Day Tour
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Nagarkot Sunrise and hike to Changu Narayan tour takes you to the beautiful hill Nagarkot, located at an altitude of 2,195 meters. The hill offers mesmerizing sunrise views over the spectacular Himalayan range. Soak in the fresh air of the mountains and sweeping views of the Himalayas during a private 7-8 hour tour starting from Kathmandu, Patan or Bhaktapur.
After sunrise, stop for the breakfast or tea/coffee at hotel in Nagarkot and start the hike to Changu Narayan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its exquisite stone carvings, sculptures, and intricate architecture. The distance from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan hike is approximately 12 kilometers, and it takes around 4-5 hours to complete the hike, depending on your pace and the stops you make along the way.
Please note that from Nagarkot, mountain views are only visible when the weather is clear and without clouds.
Available options
Day Nagarkot & Changu Hike
Nagarkot & Changu Day Hike: Visit Nagarkot for Mountain Views & Hike to Changunarayan Day Trip<br/>Pickup included
Nagarkot hike & sunset view
6-7 hours: Changu to Nagarkot Hike & Sunset View from Nagarkot<br/>Pickup included
Nagarkot Sunrise & Hike to Changu Narayan Day Tour
6–7 Hour Tour: Pickup time varies with the season, as sunrise ranges from 5:07 am in summer to 6:31 am in winter.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
All Taxes
Mineral water
Professional English speaking tour guide.
Private transportation with air condition
Changu Narayan Entrance fee
Hotel pickup and drop-off by a private vehicle.
Detailed itinerary
1
Your private guide will collect you from your hotel at 4:15am for the scenic 90-minute drive to Nagarkot. You'll pass small towns, lush forests, winding roads, and little teahouses as you enjoy mountain panoramas in the distance.
About 24 miles away from Kathmandu, Nagarkot towers at an elevation of 7,200 feet (2,195 meters). Enjoy sunrise from Nagarkot view tower and your guide will point out the different Himalayan ranges in the distance, among them the Annapurna Range, the Mansiri Range, the Langtang Range, the Everest Range, and the Rolwaling Range.
From here, you'll follow a small walking trail to the village of Rohini Bhanjyang that has amazing views across to the Himalayan ranges. From here, the rugged path leads through the little hamlets of Kankre and Tanchok to Tusal, where it climbs uphill through farms and farmland to Opi.
Hike an hour or so further and you'll reach the stunning hill station of Dhulikhel, with its majestic natural beauty. The snowcapped mountains often look as though they're floating in the air when the blue haze covers their flanks, while the landscapes of farmland and mountain peaks are timeless.
Spend some time in Dhulikhel admiring the views and capturing great shots before your private driver collects you and your guide. It's a bit over an hour to Kathmandu, so you should be back at your hotel before 1-2pm, traffic permitting.
2
Scenic hike! - Nagarkot to Dhulikhel hikind distance is 18-19KM.
3
Sunrise view from Nagarkot View Tower!
4
The hike start from Nagarkot
5
Stop 5
Changu Narayan UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu
6
We pick up traveler from kathmandu valley.
7
We pick up traveler from kathmandu valley.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
We pick up traveler from kathmandu valley.
What's not included
Personal Expenses, Any meals and drinks.
Gratuities for guide and driver.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
119 reviews
5★
112
4★
7
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
From Nagarkot, mountain views are only visible when the weather is clear and without clouds.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
