Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Easy
  • Trip Style: Tour
  • Transport: Private Vehicle
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Group Size: 1-35
  • Max Elevation: 2000m

Highlights

Highlights of Nagarkot Sunrise Tour and Changunarayan Hike

  • Nagarkot Sunrise: Witness breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest on a clear day.
  • Changunarayan Temple: Visit one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, renowned for its intricate carvings and rich history.
  • Scenic Hike: Enjoy a leisurely hike through terraced fields, small villages, and lush forests.
  • Cultural Experience: Engage with local Newari culture, traditional architecture, and local customs.

Description

The Nagarkot Sunrise Tour and Changunarayan Hike is a popular day trip from Kathmandu, combining natural beauty, cultural heritage, and physical activity. Start early in the morning with a drive to Nagarkot, a hill station famous for its panoramic Himalayan views. After witnessing the sunrise, embark on a scenic hike to Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages.

Weather

  • Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures (10-25°C), clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons.
  • Summer (June-August): Warm (20-30°C), but monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and lush greenery.
  • Autumn (September-November): Cool (10-20°C), clear skies, and excellent visibility for mountain views.
  • Winter (December-February): Cold (2-15°C), especially in the early morning, but generally dry and clear.

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness is required. The hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan is about 12 kilometers and takes approximately 4-5 hours. It involves some uphill and downhill sections but is manageable for most people with a reasonable fitness level.

Foods

Breakfast: Enjoy a light breakfast in Nagarkot after the sunrise, featuring local and continental options.

Lunch: Traditional Nepali cuisine, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), momo (dumplings), and seasonal vegetables, is recommended in local eateries along the hike or near Changunarayan.

Accommodation

Nagarkot: Numerous hotels and guesthouses ranging from budget to luxury, offering sunrise views.

Changunarayan: Limited accommodation options; most visitors prefer staying in nearby Bhaktapur or returning to Kathmandu.

Culture and Temples

Nagarkot: While primarily a viewpoint, nearby villages offer insights into local Tamang culture.

Changunarayan Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a masterpiece of stone, wood, and metal craft. It is surrounded by a quaint village showcasing Newari culture.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and physical activity, making it a memorable day trip from Kathmandu.

Nagarkot Sunrise Tour And Changunarayan Hike Itinerary

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1.Early Morning

  Depart from Kathmandu (around 4:00 AM).

  Drive to Nagarkot (1.5 hours).

2.Sunrise at Nagarkot

  Arrive in Nagarkot and enjoy the sunrise (around 5:30 AM).

  Breakfast at a local restaurant or hotel.

3.Morning Hike

  Start the hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan (4-5 hours).

  Pass through terraced fields, forests, and traditional villages.

4.Lunch

  Arrive at Changunarayan and have lunch at a local restaurant.

5.Afternoon Exploration

  Explore Changunarayan Temple and its surroundings.

  Learn about its history, architecture, and significance.

6.Return

  Drive back to Kathmandu (1-1.5 hours).

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Accommodation: None
  • Altitude: 2000m
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What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Hotel Pickup and Drop-off by Private Transport 
  • Hiking Tour Guide
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Visit Changunarayan Temple
  • Expert and Friendly Driver
  • Village Exploration Experience
  • Scenic Himalayan Sunset Viewing

Cost Excludes

  • Permit and Entrance Fee
  • Personal Expenses
  • Optional Activities or Upgrades
  • Tips for Driver & Guide