Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hiking is a popular choice for hikers and trekkers seeking a refreshing, thrilling, and stunning escape from the chaotic city life of Kathmandu. Located about 32 km east of Kathmandu, Nagarkot at an altitude of 2,175 m (7,136 ft) is popular for its stunning look out at the Himalayan ranges, especially during sunrise and sunset, including that of the top of the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 m) on a very clear day.
Beginning with a scenic drive from Kathmandu, the hike here takes you through lovely villages of diverse ethnic communities of Nepal, such as Brahmins, Tamangs, Newari, and others, with ample opportunity for trekking, bird watching, and striking sights of the Mahalangur ranges, Langtang, and Sagarmatha massifs; hence, the Nagarkot Sunrise Day hike also serves as a golden chance to learn about the country's rich geography and culture in a short time span of a day, proving a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
The hike usually begins early in the morning, so you get to capture the heavenly sunrise, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink as the sun peeks over the towering snow-clad peaks, while the trail to and back offers the harmonious sounds of nature beside the crisp and fresh air, creating a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere that blends fantastically with the centuries-preserved traditional rural life.
Further, this day hike is through the historic Bhaktapur district, home to one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Changunarayan Temple, the oldest temple in the Kathmandu valley that you will be visiting at the end of the day, which all nonetheless come together to craft a tranquil hiking experience convenient for all age groups and experience levels, offering a more laidback, simple yet fulfilling journey and the best outdoor adventure for trekking and hiking aspirants with family.
Highlights
- Interestingly beautiful drive to the serene city of Bhaktapur.
- Sweeping views of several Himalayan giants, including those of Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh, and Langtang.
- Arrive at the stunning Nagarkot Hilltop at 2,175 m with the breathtaking expansive panoramic sight of the surrounding Himalayas along with that of the Shivapuri National Park and the Kathmandu Valley.
- Relax in the pure dust-free environment full of greenery and tiny yet lovely villages.
- Relish some of the delicious traditional Nepali cuisine and drinks.
- Pay a visit to the sacred temple of Changu Narayan, the oldest religious monument in the valley, listed as one of the world’s UNESCO Heritage Sites, and many more.
What to expect during the Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hiking?
There’s ample to do, enjoy, and appreciate during a Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hiking on the outskirts of the Katmandu Valley, offering various outdoor activities to indulge yourself in, from hiking, nature walks, paragliding, village sightseeing, and many more, as it has a bounty to explore and discover, making it an extremely special journey to make memories for a lifetime.
The official hike starts at Nagarkot Hill, passing through local villages, pine forests, and terraced fields, providing a glimpse into the rural Nepali lifestyle and stunning landscapes that eventually lead you to the top of the lofty hill with one of the most outstanding Himalayan sights and that of the entire valley downhill, including Kathmandu, to expect:
A pleasing early morning hike in the proximity of Kathmandu
The Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hike begins before dawn to reach the viewpoint so that you have enough time to catch the first ray of sunlight rising above the sky soaring hills and mountains. Usually, you will depart from Kathmandu around 4 to 4:30 am, winding back and forth through tranquil forests, typical Nepalese villages, terraced farms and fields rich in scenery, and the immersive, serene surroundings with panoramic vistas of the Kathmandu valley below and the mountain ranges above.
A haven for wildlife watching
The hiking and trekking trail around Nagarkot goes through dense forests, open meadows, terraced fields, and farms. The diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it an ideal place to watch wildlife and a compelling area for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
This region is also home to over 200 species of birds, along with a variety of butterflies, insects, mammals, and reptiles. The forests come alive with the songs and calls of various avians, including the Himalayan bulbul, scarlet minivet, Eurasian eagle-owl, and colorful Nepalese sunbird, along with squirrels, foxes, tracks, scats, and occasionally barking deer, adding much to the enthralling dimension of the hiking experience.
Therefore, whether you are an avid birder, a butterfly aspirant, or someone looking forward to marveling at the wonders of nature, the diverse wildlife of Nagarkot adds much to the hiking adventure, making it an unforgettable outdoor activity to connect to nature.
The ultimate budget and family-friendly hiking route
The hiking routes to Nagarkot to witness one of the first sightings of the sunrise are well-marked and suitable for all physically fit individuals, including children and elderly family members. The trails are comparatively much easier than the Himalayan Voyage, such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley, Tsum Valley, and others, with more gentle inclines and well-traveled paths ensuring your utmost safety and enjoyment.
Similarly, Nagarkot also offers several budget-friendly accommodations, from guesthouses to homestays, meal options from local eateries to affordable Nepali cuisines, making dining both enjoyable and economical in case you want to extend your days of stay on the hilltop, which is an excellent trip for those who do not wish to stay overnight but enjoy the hike and views and return to Kathmandu within the same day.
The alluring sunrise from Nagarkot Viewpoint
The primary feature of Nagarkot View Point is its stunning sunrise and sunset views when the vibrant hues fill the ambiance, including the Himalayan ranges. The sky transforms into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and gold, casting a magical glow in the serene atmosphere, adding much to the enriching experience.
In addition, delightfully, visitors can travel to Nagarkot by car, taxi, or local bus from Kathmandu, spanning typically from 1.5 hours to 2 hours, based on the traffic and road conditions of the day. This captivating adventurer promises you the sense of adrenaline-rushing day trips and a rejuvenating spirit, creating an unforgettable experience amidst the nation’s greatest grandeur.
Coupled with the views and soft white light of peaks like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Mt. Everest, in stark contrast to dense, vibrant hills and forests, the Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hike is hence a must-do bucket list thing in Nepal while you visit on holiday, even if you have limited stay days.
The sublime feat of cultural immersion and a side visit to Changunarayan Temple
As the Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hiking is through the beautiful villages adorned with typical Nepali architecture composed of intricately carved wooden windows, stone-paved paths, and lovely houses showcasing the region's swankiness in cultural heritages and craftsmanship, engaging with the locals from here provides you with an insider insight into their customs, daily routines, and daily way of life, primarily inhabited by people of the Tamang and Newar communities.
In addition, the Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hiking also incorporates a visit to Changunarayan Temple, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal from Kathmandu Valley, boasting at least seven such monuments carrying significant cultural, historical, and religious values to the international, including Pashupatinath Temple, Swaymbhunath, Boudhnath, and the three cities of the ancient Durbar Squares: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares.
Dating back to the 2nd century, the Changunarayn Temple is located 15 km northeast of Kathmandu and is believed to be one of the oldest holy landmarks in the city from the Licchavi period, dedicated to one of the supreme Hindu gods, "Vishnu." Perched on a hilltop, it has one of the most amazing views of the surrounding scenery that attracts foreigners, locals, and pilgrims across the world, which was later designated as one of the world’s UNESCO heritage sites in 1979 A.D.
A visit here during a day trip to Nagarkot adds much to the spiritual and cultural aspects of a hike, making it one of the most alluring holistic experiences you could ever behold in one short single trip.
One day best itinerary for the Nagarkot Sunrise Hiking
The one-day itinerary for the Nagarkot Sunrise Hiking begins before dawn around 4 a.m. so that you get to arrive at Nagakot hill station by 5:30 a.m. and catch the jaw-dropping sunrise over the Himalayas by 6 a.m. After capturing the golden hues over the spectacular Himalayan ranges, you will catch breakfast at a local café, where you can find a variety of options, from chickpeas, mashed potatoes, and warm teas, to sandwiches, and others.
Thereafter, there is a downhill hike towards Changu Narayan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The descending trek lasts for 3-5 hours, depending on the pace of the trekkers and hikers, passing by tranquil, alluring lush forests, terraced farms, and traditional Tamang Villages, granting you mesmerizing sights of glorifying mountain views and a peek into the local cultural and customary life.
At around 1 pm, you would have made it to the ancient temple, full of spiritual energy carrying massive religious and cultural values, and enjoyed lunch before heading back to Kathmandu. However, if you wish to extend the days of your stay in Nagarkot, we are happy to make the arrangements, and hence the day itinerary is the best hiking route to Nagarkot Hill that not only lets you embrace the beauty of the Himalayan giants but also the terrain and natural beauty resembling that of the Himalayan trails.
The Nagarkot Sunrise Day Hiking Cost
The overall cost for the Nagarkot Hike to watch the sunrise can range from USD 75 to USD 130 per person based on the services included, such as choice of transportation (local bus, car, private jeep), dining options, and additional expenses including snacks, drinks, tips for the guides, and others.
At Ammonite Adventures and Treks, we offer a Nagarkot Hiking Package at the most reasonable price that usually covers expenses for all the essentials, including transportation from Kathmandu to Nagarkot and back, your professional guide, breakfast, and all the necessary permits, such as to the Changu Narayan Temple.
Contact us now for group discounts!