Nagarkot Sunrise Day Tour from Kathmandu

Nagarkot is located 32km east of Kathmandu, Nepal in Bhaktapur District. At an elevation of 2195m, Nagarkot is one of the most popular spots for tourism. It is known as the most scenic spot in the Bhaktapur district. Nagarkot is the nearest hill station from Kathmandu and an amateur for the spectacular sunrise view. Besides the sunrise view, Nagarkot offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas including Everest as well as other Himalayan ranges. In addition, the hill station is even popular for the view of the Kathmandu valley. During the clear weather, one can witness the view of the sunrise touching the peak of the Himalayan. Nothing can be more pleasing and heartwarming than the view that Nagarkot offers. Therefore, the Himalayan sunrise and a walk to the pristine rhododendron forest, pines, and oaks are the prime sources of attraction of Nagarkot.

Nagarkot is an ideal place for those who want to experience the best of nature. The beauty of this place makes it a very popular hiking route for visitors. It commands the broadest views of the Himalayas including Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, Jugal, Mahalangur range, etc. Besides the natural view, you will get a chance for cultural exploration on this tour. You will observe the typical Newari community and their lifestyle who has been a descendant of the Kathmandu valley since long ago. On the other hand, this tour includes a visit to the Hindu ancient temple Changunarayan. This shrine is considered the oldest temple and is dedicated to Lord Bishnu. Moreover, the tour offers an authentic village, culture, and lifestyle of the people around the valley.

Therefore, the view of the snow-capped peaks along with the Newari village and culture will give you the best memory that will be treasured for a lifetime.

To catch the most spectacular sunrise view, you need to get up very early in the morning. Starting your journey at exactly 4:30 am in the morning, we will drive for about 1 and half hours to Nagarkot. Since the cold breeze welcomes you upon reaching the hilltop of Nagarkot. The most awaited moments of witnessing the sunrise view in the peak of the Himalayas adds another sort of excitement to your Journey. After spending some time in the viewpoint,  we will have our breakfast and walk downhill to explore the villages.

In addition, we will do a short trek to the village and witness the lifestyle of Typical village life. On the other hand, we will visit Changunarayan temple which is one of the UNESCO listed world heritage. Besides, we will witness the typical Newari culture during our visit. After a day of excursion, we will return to our hotel.

Activities to be done

Nagarkot is one of the nearest and most convenient tourism destinations in Kathmandu. Nagarkot is a perfect place for those who are willing to spend quality time with nature. It is also a place for cultural exploration. Therefore, being a tourist hub, Nagarkot has plenty of activities to offer for visitors. 

• Sunrise view 

One of the major and most famous activities in Nagarkot is the early morning sunrise view. Yearly, thousands of visitors visit this place just to get a stunning view of the sunrise.  Likewise, there is nothing satisfying like framing the sunrise view over the peaks of the Himalayas. However, one must travel very early to witness the view from the viewpoint in Nagarkot. Thus, The view is mesmerizing with the sun rising above the peaks.

• Witness the panoramic view of snow-capped peaks

The next very mesmerizing thing that the hill station offers is the panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks. One can witness the view of the Highest peak Mt. Everest in case of clear weather. Apart from Everest, the view includes Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, Jugal Himal, Rolwaling, Mahalangur range, etc. the peaks striking at the sunset and sunrise is worth watching once in a lifetime.

• Hike to the villages

Apart from the views, A day tour to Nagarkot even includes a hike to nearby villages. After spending some time watching the sunrise and snow-capped peaks, we will hike to the villages in Nagarkot. Furthermore, a walk to the pristine rhododendron forest, pines, and oaks observing the surrounding beauty is a memory for a lifetime.

• Observe Newari culture

You will even explore the typical village life inside the valley. Nagarkot is located in Bhaktapur where the majority of people belong to the Newari community. So during your hike, you will observe the Newari community residing in Bhaktapur and the village around Nagarkot. The culture and tradition of the Newari community are famous within the valley. Moreover, this tour even let you be familiar with the Newari community, their culture, and lifestyle.

• Visit Changu Narayan Temple

A two-story pagoda-style Hindu temple located dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is surrounded by ancient carvings and statues. So, the tour to Nagarkot takes you to the oldest temple in Bhaktapur district which is a UNESCO world heritage. It’s built top on the high hills which is 7 miles east of Kathmandu. Therefore, you will get a wonderful opportunity to explore this temple.