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Nagarkot Sunrise Day Tour

Trip Cost: USD 110

Trip Highlights

1. 1:30 hours driving from Kathmandu. 

2. Nagarkot Tower (2175 m) suggests Mount Everest & Sunrise view.

3. Telkot-Changu Narayan hiking (1:40 hour).  

4. The World Heritage Changu Narayan Temple tour.

5. Today's Nagarkot Sunrise time with accurate weather.

Overview

Nagarkot Sunrise Day Tour offers a thrilling 7-hour journey from Kathmandu to Nagarkot, allowing one to witness breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views of the Himalayas on a clear day. Located 32 km east of Kathmandu on the rim of the Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot (Bhaktapur) is known for its ancient fort, tranquil hill station, resort village, and as the historical summer retreat of the Rana Dynasty (1846-1950).

Nagarkot Tower, situated at 2175 meters, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan ranges. From this vantage point, one can witness the splendour of eight Himalayan peaks, including Numbur (6956 m), Mount Everest (8848.86 m), Gaurishankar (7134 m), Choba Bhamare (5933 m), Dorje Lakpa (6966 m), Shishapangma (8013 m), Langtang (7246 m), Ganesh Himal (7406 m), Manaslu (8163 m), and Annapurna (8091 m). 

In addition to its awe-inspiring mountain vistas, Nagarkot offers enchanting views of the sunset, nearby villages, lush forests, the Kathmandu valley, and the meandering Shivapuri and Indravati rivers. The region is teeming with a diverse range of flora and fauna, including pine, alder, chestnut, zanthoxylum, Himalayan cherry, Mahua, stinging nettle, as well as various bird and animal species such as eagles, owls, doves, barking deer, wild boars, yellow-throated martens, Gallus gallus, jackals, porcupines, mongooses, and squirrels.

Nagarkot Sunrise Day Tour offers an exciting experience of driving, walking in nature, and exploring heritage sites, all accompanied by a knowledgeable English guide. The Nagarkot bus stop 4 km northwest of the tower can be reached in just 10 minutes by car or an hour-long walk. In addition to the breathtaking sunrise view, Nagarkot boasts a picnic spot, helipad, Mahadev Pokhari, Ratnachudeshwar Mahadev temple, 35 hotels, restaurants, an army camp, and a school. Moreover, their hiking trails lead to Changu Narayan, Dhulikhel and Sankhu.

Telkot village, situated at an elevation of 1600 meters, marks the beginning of a brief hike that takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Changu Narayan, which sits at an altitude of 1541 meters. Along this scenic trail, hikers appreciate the breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, the picturesque sight of terraced fields and the charming rural lifestyle. As you venture through the natural surroundings, come across diverse flora and fauna, including vibrant butterflies, melodious birds, and enchanting orchids. The trail also showcases the presence of box myrtle, hog plum, and other fascinating plant species. Additionally, you may encounter friendly goats, water buffaloes, and cows, adding to the authentic rural experience.

Changu Narayan Temple, dating back to 323 AD, is the oldest temple in Kathmandu Valley and holds the prestigious title of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historical site is a living museum showcasing ancient art and artefacts. Among the notable features is the first stone inscription from 464-506 AD, which details the story of a Prince whose Queen Mother did not participate in the Sati System by joining her father's funeral pyre. Additionally, visitors can admire sculptures such as Vamana Tribikram, Garud-Narayan, the Man-lion from the 7th century, the Man-bird Garuda from the 5th century, Pati, a stone elephant, Kileshwar Mahadev, Chhinnamasta Temple, and a festival chariot.

Nagarkot with Bhaktapur Durbar Square offers a 6-hour alternative day tour. Bhaktapur Palace Square, Taumadhi, Dattatreya, and Pottery Square, dating back to the eighth century, were designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1979. The Medieval Palace Square boasts a 55-window palace, a golden gate, Taleju, Shiva, Nyatapola, Bhairabnath, and Dattatreya temple. September to May is the best time for Nagarkot sunrise tours, hiking, cycling, meditation and overnight stays. Local travel agency Yeti Trail Adventure provides Nagarkot tour reservations with a guide and transportation via WhatsApp at +9779847688421.

Nagarkot Tour Cost 2024-2025

Nagarkot Sunrise, Telkot-Changu Narayan Hike: 7 Hours

Group Size: 1 pax tourist - $110

Group Size: 2-3 pax tourists - $70 Per Person

Group Size: 4-6 pax tourists - $60 Per Person

Group Size: 7-12 pax tourists - $50 Per Person

Nagarkot Sunrise, Bhaktapur Durbar Square Tour: 6 Hours

Group Size: 1 pax tourist - $120 

Group Size: 2-3 pax tourist - $80 Per Person

Group Size: 4-6 pax tourist - $70 Per Person

Group Size: 7-12 pax tourist - $60 Per Person

Nagarkot Sunrise Tour: 5 Hours

 Group Size: 1 pax tourist - $100 

Group Size: 2-3 pax tourist - $60 Per Person

Group Size: 4-6 pax tourist - $50 Per Person

Group Size: 7-12 pax tourist - $40 Per Person

1: Drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot - 1:30 hours

2 : Drive to Telkot, hike to Changu Narayan - 2:20 hours

3: Drive from Changu Narayan to Kathmandu - 1:00 hour

1: Drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot - 1:30 hours
The Nagarkot day tour departs from Kathmandu at 4 a.m., 1.5 hours before the sunrise. You have a professional guide and driver throughout the tour. The driving route will take you through Kathmandu Jamal, Singha Durbar, Babarmahal, Koteshwor, and Bhaktapur-Nagarkot road. Along the way, you will enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, terraced fields, villages, seasonal crops, and pine forests. After the car ride, a short 5-minute walk will lead you to Nagarkot Tower (2175 m), where you can witness a mesmerizing sunrise over the Himalayas. From Annapurna to Mount Everest, the views are truly stunning. Enjoy a 10-minute drive that will take you to Nagarkot town (4 km), where you can enjoy a delicious hot breakfast.

2 : Drive to Telkot, hike to Changu Narayan - 2:20 hours
Travel a distance of 25 minutes from Nagarkot to Telkot, passing through forests and villages. The Changu Narayan hiking trail (lasting 1 hour and 40 minutes) begins in Telkot, winding through the village and pine forest. On a clear day, the view of the Himalayas is truly breathtaking. Finally, explore the UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site, Changu Narayan Temple.

3: Drive from Changu Narayan to Kathmandu - 1:00 hour
Ultimately, return to Kathmandu within an hour by following the driving route through Changu Narayan, Bhaktapur, Koteshwor, Baneshwar, Bhadrakali, Ratnapark, and Thamel.

Trip Cost Includes

1. Private car with driver

2. Professional guide

3. Breakfast

4. 13 % government tax

5. Changu Narayan Temple entrance fee

Trip Cost Excludes

1. Tip to guide and driver

2. Lunch

 

Three Different Nagarkot Tour Itineraries 
1. Nagarkot sunrise with Telkot-Changu Narayan hiking - 7 hours
2. Nagarkot with Bhaktapur Durbar Square tour - 6 hours
3. Nagarkot sunrise tour - 5 hours

 

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Trip Facts

  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Departure Date: Everyday at 4/5 AM
  • Views: Sunrise & Mt. Everest
  • Start and End: Kathmandu
  • Max. Altitude : 2175 m / Nagarkot Tower
  • Best Season: September to May
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Activity: Driving and hiking
  • Supportive: Tour Guide and Car

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