A prominent destination in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Nepal is known for breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and outdoor activities. Also home to the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest, Nepal is the best blend of nature, culture, and adventure. The country is quite popular among trekking communities and backpackers in the West. From busy streets of Kathmandu to heritage sites of Bhaktapur, relaxing vibes of Phewa Lake in Pokhara to magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges as seen from hamlets like Nagarkot, Nuwakot, and Sarangkot, Nepal would never fail you but add more to the best travel memories you’ve earned in life.

One such beautiful place that is often missed out by travellers is Nagarkot. Nagarkot, though located just about 30 km away from Kathmandu, is a complete contrast to the city. After spending a few days in the busy city of Kathmandu, while traveling through Nepal, you should definitely consider spending a day or two in Nagarkot, if not more. The spectacular views of sunrise, pristine hill slopes, and the laid back life in the village of Nagarkot would be the perfect detox you need after exploring the bustling cities and touristy places in Nepal.

Panoramic views from Nagarkot

Things to do in Nagarkot

(1) Witness a gorgeous sunrise

The entire town of Nagarkot has come into the limelight primarily because of the view of the sunrise against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains. The panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges is beyond description and indeed a treat to the eyes. Eight Himalayan ranges, including Mt. Everest, Annapurna Range, and Manaslu Range, can be spotted from Nagarkot. The first rays of the sun touching the glorious Himalayan peaks making them look icy pink and then piercing through the bed of clouds to fall over the lush green valley is a surreal sight to witness. If you have booked a stay that offers a terrace to view the sunrise, you do not have to walk even a bit and can enjoy an exquisite sunrise right from your hotel. If your hotel does not offer a great view, you can hike up to the watchtower in Nagarkot, from where you can witness the gorgeous sunrise.

Snow-clad Himalayan ranges, as visible from Nagarkot

(2) Hike to Nagarkot View Tower

A hike upto Nagarkot View Tower at dawn would not be a bad idea to start your day. From the view tower, you can have a look at the panoramic Himalayan ranges. You can also sit and relax in this area to absorb the ambiance and freshness of the surroundings.

Nagarkot View Tower

(3) Hike through the Panoramic Trail

A hike through the Panoramic Trail in Nagarkot is a must for all those who love to spend time in the wilderness of the mountains. Generally, it takes 3 -4 hours for a person with a moderate level of fitness to finish this hike. Interestingly, this hike takes you through a circular path, so you would not have to return through the same trail. The trail takes you through beautiful forests, village by-lanes, and finally opens up to a point from where Mt. Everest is visible on a clear day. The hike is totally worth your time.

Trails in Nagarkot

A relaxing retreat

With a calm ambiance and fresh air, Nagarkot is the best place to relax and rejuvenate. To enjoy the vibe of the place to the fullest, book accommodation with mountain views and a balcony. You can choose to relax on your own balcony or spend some time socializing with other travellers in cafes.

Best time to visit Nagarkot

The best time to visit Nagarkot is the early winter months of October and November and the spring months of March and April. During this time, the skies are clear, and the mountain ranges are clearly visible. In the spring season, the mountains look extremely beautiful, with colourful flowers in full bloom.

Between May to September, the temperature rises, and there might even be heavy rainfall. The temperature drops to low between the winter months of November to February, and mist might obstruct the mountain views. Thus, these months should be avoided.

How to reach Nagarkot

You can book a direct taxi to Nagarkot from Thamel, Tribhuvan International Airport, or any other place in Kathmandu. It will take about 1.5 hours and cost between NPR 2500-3000 to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu by a reserved taxi. Your hotel or tour operator can also arrange this for you. If you wish to return by taxi too, you should arrange for it beforehand with your tour operator or hotel in Nagarkot. It is difficult to find taxis from Nagarkot to return to Kathmandu.

To travel by a local bus, you need to break the journey at Bhaktapur. From any central area of Kathmandu, first, take a bus to Bhaktapur. From Bhaktapur, take a second bus till Nagarkot. The journey on a local bus might take you anywhere between 2 to 2.5 hours. Local buses are usually very crowded and travelling on buses with luggage might get a bit difficult. However, local buses are preferred by backpackers as they’re extremely cheap. Travelling by bus is also the best way to get a glimpse of regular life in Nepal and strike a conversation with the locals.

Accommodation in Nagarkot

There is a wide range of accommodations available at Nagarkot. Budget-friendly and mid-range hotels and accommodations in tents and yoga centres are available throughout Nagarkot. Apart from these, there are a couple of luxury hotels with impressive facilities available too.

Things to remember while visiting Nagarkot

• Carry enough cash with you as you may not have the option to make online payments or withdraw cash.

• Mobile networks are not too good throughout Nagarkot, and hotels might not have WiFi. If you have important communications to make via online means, do that before heading out to Nagarkot.

• For non-SAARC nationals, there is an entry fee of NPR 300 to enter Nagarkot.

• Always carry some cash while going for hikes in Nagarkot. Many of these trails have an entry station that charges a minimum fee. You definitely wouldn’t want to return after covering a considerable distance if you run out of cash.

• If you wish to return to Kathmandu by a reserved taxi, arrange for it beforehand or convey it to your hotel management right after arrival.

• Be watchful of your belongings while travelling on local buses.

Nagarkot is indeed a unique gift that nature has bestowed upon Nepal. If you have not been to Nepal yet, start planning now, and do not forget to add Nagarkot to your itinerary. It definitely deserves to be on your bucket list.