If you are wondering about having a trail that lets you experience the wonder of nature as well as the peace away from the crowded city, then this hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel is a perfect destination for you.
Nagarkot is the nearest hill station from Kathmandu well known for its views of the Himalayas striking at sunrise and sunset. It is located 32km east of Kathmandu which is about an hour and a half drive from Kathmandu. Nagarkot is one of the popular tourist destinations famous for sightseeing, Hiking, religious place visit as well as exploring ancient culture and tradition. Similarly being close to the Kathmandu valley, the hill station provides a clear view of the entire valley as well. On the other hand, it commands the broadest views of the Himalayas such as Everest, Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, Jugal, Mahalangur range, etc. Nagarkot is inhabited by the Newari community and you will get to witness some of the ancient Newari culture and tradition as well as religious places during your day hike.
Dhulikhel is another famous place near Kathmandu popular for sightseeing and witnessing the stunning Himalayas views. It is located 30km southeast of Kathmandu and has biome a popular weekend destination for the local as well as the International visitors. This town offers a mesmerizing view of mountains such as Langtang, Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shankar, and Melungtse. Another major attraction of Dhulikhel is its ancient monasteries and temples. Namo Buddha monastery, Narayan temple are some of the religious sites one can visit in Dhulikhel. Besides, it is also an ancient Newari town with traditional Newar craftsmanship.
The hike starts with the early morning drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot. Waking up early, we will set our journey to Nagarkot at 4: 30am in the morning. Then, driving for about one and half hours we will reach Nagarkot and catch the spectacular sunrise view striking over the peak of the Himalayas. After spending some time over here, we will have breakfast and start our hike to Dhulikhel passing through pine forests, farmlands, and a small settlement. The hike lets you experience the lifestyle of the locals. Hiking for about 5 hours takes us to the beautiful town in Dhulikhel. You will visit Namo Buddha, a Buddhist pilgrimage site, Narayan temple, a sacred place for Hindu and old town. Finally, you will drive back from Dhulikhel to Kathmandu
Activities to be done
Nagarkot to Dhulikhel is one of the most popular short-distance hikes close to the capital. This hike lets you witness nature as well as experience the local and traditional lifestyle of the people living outside the city in Village areas. Likewise, it takes you away from the hustle and bustle life of the city to the fresh and peaceful surroundings. Therefore, the hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel has a lot to offer such as:
Sunrise view
The view of the sun rising in the morning is one of the most spectacular views. However, the sunrise view striking over the peak of the Himalayas adds another level of the eye-catching scenario. Thus, Nagarkot and Dhulikhel offer the sunrise views striking over the snow-capped peaks. Whereas, one can witness the early morning sunrise view in Nagarkot and sunset view from Dhulikhel. No matter where you observe the sight from, the view of the sunrise and sunset is always magnificent.
Stunning views of the snow-capped peaks
Nepal is the land of the Himalayas, and home to the world’s highest peak. So, one can witness the mesmerizing snow-capped peaks including the world’s highest Everest during your hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel. Besides Everest, one can have a stunning view of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, Jugal Himal, Rolwaling, Mahalangur range, etc from Nagarkot. On the other hand, Dhulikhel offers the view of Langtang, Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Sankar, and Melungtse. Therefore, you can have a panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks during your day hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel.
Pleasant easy and a short hike
The hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel is about 5-6 hours long and this short hike gives the best memory for a lifetime. The hike passes through several settlement areas, Pine forests, farmlands taking you to an ancient Newari town with the valuable Newari asset which are fine examples of Newari craftsmanship. Besides, the hike is relatively easy and most encouraging for beginners. Therefore, within a short amount of time, you will feel like you have explored the whole country during this hike.
Witness typical village life
On your way from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel, you will pass through several settlements where you will experience the typical village life of Nepalese society. The life of a village is far more different than that of the city. You will find people being engaged in agriculture and everything is fresh and organic here. Besides, unlike the city area, the village area gives the best scenario of natural landscapes. Also, people are found living in a mud house with greenery around.
Exploration of culture and tradition
Another advantage of hiking to this place brings out different sort
Of joy and excitement by exploring the culture that the people are following over here. You will get to know the different forms of culture and tradition. People here considered visitors equal to the god. On your way to Dhulikhel, you will explore several monasteries including the Bank Buddha, which is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Besides, you will pass through several temples that reflect the art and architecture of ancient people.
