Highlights of the Nagarkot Tour
- Hike to the Nagarkot Viewpoint for panoramic views of mountain ranges, including the Annapurna, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal ranges.
- Visit Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in history and culture.
- Experience the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas.
- Enjoy delicious Newari cuisine at the local restaurant in Bhaktapur.
- Stroll around the nearby Newari and Tamang villages to experience the rich culture of the local people.
Major Highlights of the Nagarkot Tour
Sunrise Hike to Nagarkot Viewpoint
The Nagarkot sunrise hike to the Nagarkot viewpoint is a highlight of any visit to Nagarkot. Starting early, the walk takes you through peaceful trails surrounded by lush greenery, offering a refreshing escape from the city. As you reach the viewpoint, you'll be greeted by the stunning Nagarkot sunrise view, with the first light touching the snow-covered peaks and valleys below. Mount Everest is visible on clear days. The view spans over 200 miles of Himalayan ranges, including Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Everest. The crisp morning air and beautiful scenery make the hike as rewarding as the view itself.
Visit Bhaktapur
A visit to Bhaktapur is often paired with a trip to Nagarkot due to its close distance and cultural importance. Bhaktapur, also called Bhadgaon or the "City of Devotees," is an ancient Newar city just 13 kilometers from Kathmandu and about a 30-minute drive from Nagarkot. Known for its rich culture, temples, and traditional crafts, the city is famous for its wood, metal, and stone artworks, along with its pottery and weaving industries.
At Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors can explore stunning Newari architecture, including pagoda-style temples, royal palaces, and beautifully carved statues. Walking through the narrow brick alleys, you can watch local artisans at work and experience the living traditions of the Newar people. Some highlights of a Nagarkot and Bhaktapur tour include the Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 Windows, and the towering Nyatapola Temple, all offering a glimpse into Nepal’s medieval history and architectural skill.
The best time to visit Nagarkot
While visiting Nagarkot is possible throughout the whole year, the best time to visit Nagarkot is during the dry season, from October to May. The months express the clearest view of the Himalayan range, which includes Mount Everest on clear days. The weather during this period is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures and little rain. October and November are also among the most preferred months since, just after the monsoon, the air is fresh and clear, hence giving way to excellent visibility. The spring months, from March to May, are also beautiful, with warmer weather and blooming rhododendrons in the hills.
While Nagarkot can be visited during the monsoon season, this is not advisable due to heavy rainfall, with limited visibility. If one is visiting in winter-from December to February-one must be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at night.
Itinerary
Day 1: Pick up from Kathmandu and drive to Nagarkot.
You will be picked up from your hotel and drive to Nagarkot, which is a panoramic drive, taking about 1 to 2 hours depending on the traffic conditions. Upon arrival at Nagarkot, you can take a walk around the village and enjoy serenity in the atmosphere. Nagarkot is known for its peaceful surroundings, and this will be a great opportunity to relax for the rest of the day. You will be delighted to enjoy the most magnificent sight of a sunset right from hotels in Nagarkot in the evening.
Day 2: Short hike to Nagarkot Viewpoint, then drive back to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur
Early in the morning, start with a refreshing, short hike to Nagarkot Viewpoint. The hike will take approximately 20-30 minutes, providing a calm and serene walk upwards. The viewpoint offers stunning 360-degree views of the mountains and valleys, including the breathtaking Nagarkot mountain view. If the day is clear, you may even catch a glimpse of the Himalayan range and a beautiful sunrise lighting up the area.
After this Nagarkot short hike, you will return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast. After having breakfast, drive to Bhaktapur, a city famous for its richness in culture, arts, and crafts, where you will be allowed to spend some time wandering around the ancient streets, learning about the fascinating history and beautifully preserved architecture.
Have a lunch in Bhaktapur and drive back to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Included
- Private Vehicles transfer during the sightseeing.
- Professional and English-speaking tour guide during the entire tour.
- Farewell dinner in an authentic Nepali restaurant with a cultural program.
- Salary and insurance for a guide.
- Entrance Fees for all the heritage sites.
- Carry Me Bag for responsible waste collection throughout the trip
- Bottles of water during the trip.
Excluded
- Airfare domestic and international
- Nepal Visa fees & Your travel insurance
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Any drinks like alcohol, mineral water, juice
- Tips to guide and driver
- Any meal in Kathmandu
- Emergency rescue is not expected
Additional Information
Tour customization
If you'd like, you can extend your trip to Nagarkot. It’s also possible to hike there. If you wish to add activities like a visit to Changunarayan or extend your stay, we can arrange that as well. Feel free to contact us for a customized Nagarkot tour package tailored to your preferences.
Transportation
For the Nagarkot tour, we will arrange a comfortable private vehicle to ensure a smooth journey. The service includes pick-up from your chosen location, making it easy to start your Nagarkot day trip from Kathmandu. After enjoying your time in Nagarkot, the same vehicle will take you back to Kathmandu safely. The package also includes a trip to Bhaktapur, where you can explore its rich culture and beautiful architecture. With our reliable transportation, you can relax and enjoy a hassle-free experience throughout the tour.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nagarkot worth visiting?
Yes, Nagarkot is definitely worth visiting for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, particularly during sunrise and sunset. Its close proximity to Kathmandu makes it a popular getaway for both locals and tourists.
What is Nagarkot famous for?
Nagarkot is famous for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including beautiful sunrises and sunsets. It has pleasant weather, hiking trails, and nearby cultural sites, attracting adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Can you see Mount Everest from Nagarkot?
Yes, on clear days, you can see Mount Everest from Nagarkot. The area offers great views of the eastern Himalayas, including Everest, but visibility depends on the weather.
How long does the sunrise hike take in Nagarkot?
The sunrise hike in Nagarkot usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Most hikers start early in the morning to reach the viewpoint before dawn and enjoy the beautiful sunrise.
Which peaks are visible from Nagarkot?
From Nagarkot, you can see several impressive peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Manaslu, Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Makalu and several other peaks.
