NP
Nagarkot
A ridge-top village at 2,175m with sunrise views over the Himalaya on clear mornings
A ridge-top village at 2,175m with sunrise views over the Himalaya on clear mornings
Hotels and a hilltop viewpoint face the mountains. Peaks such as Langtang, Ganesh Himal and Dorje Lakpa are the most prominent; Everest is small and far away.
Be up by about 5.30am in the dry season.
Photo: Bandana kc, CC BY-SA 3.0
Pine forest and terraced fields fall away on both sides of the ridge. Short walks lead between viewpoints and villages.
Photo: Bijay chaurasia, CC BY-SA 4.0
A popular downhill walk of about 2–3 hours leads to this ancient hilltop temple, part of the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site, with fine stone carvings.
Consider hiring a local guide.
Photo: Jodie Wilson, CC BY 2.0
Small Tamang and Newar villages along the trails give a glimpse of rural life just outside the valley.
Photo: 松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 4.0
Hotels serve dal bhat, momo and Western breakfasts. Choice is limited outside the guesthouses.
Bring snacks for the hike.
Nagarkot is about 1.5 hours by taxi from Kathmandu, or about 45 minutes by local bus from Bhaktapur.
Many hotels arrange taxis and combine the trip with Bhaktapur.
Nepal uses the rupee (NPR).
Sunset, sunrise and a walk.
Arrive from Bhaktapur and watch the sunset.
Watch sunrise, then hike down to Changu Narayan.
Views are never guaranteed; the dry season is best.
Mornings are cold from November to February.
Choose a room facing the mountains.
Bring a torch for early starts.
Quick answers for planning time in Nagarkot.
On very clear days, yes, but it looks small and far away.
About 2,175m.
By taxi from Kathmandu or bus from Bhaktapur.
October to March, especially just after the monsoon.
No, it is mostly downhill and takes 2–3 hours.
Planning a wider trip? Our Nepal travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.