Nagarkot Travel Guide

Nagarkot is a tiny mountain village located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. The village lies on top of a hill that commands incredible views of the Himalayas. Surrounded by greenery and traditional farms, Nagarkot is an ideal place to chill after a long trek. This place also offers a welcome respite from the chaos and pollution of Kathmandu.

Tourists love Nagarkot for its mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets. It's the only place close to Kathmandu from where you can view Mount Everest and other Himalayan mountains without having to trek or hike for multiple days. Nagarkot is also a popular honeymoon destination. Its pristine nature, breathtaking mountain views, and spellbinding sunrise and sunset create the perfect mood for romance.

Highlights: What is Nagarkot Famous for?

• Stroll around the village and interact with the locals
• Visit a local farm and see how traditional farming is done
• Breathtaking Views: Nagarkot provides panoramic vistas of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest, and the Kathmandu Valley. The Nagarkot View Tower offers 360-degree views. Panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains, including Mount Everest and other giants
• Hiking and Nature: Numerous hiking trails, like the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail and Nagarkot Nature Trail, wind through lush forests and offer opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region.
• Sunrise and Sunset Views: Nagarkot is renowned for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas. Colorful sunrise and sunset views. A mesmerizing vista of snow-capped peaks glowing in the rising and setting sun.
• Cultural Experiences: You can visit the nearby Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or explore local villages to learn about the culture and traditions of the area.
• Adventure Activities: Nagarkot also offers adventure activities like paragliding, mountain biking, and trekking. Hiking and biking opportunities.
• Accommodation: A variety of lodging options are available in Nagarkot, including hotels, lodges, guesthouses, and homestays.
• Buddha Peace Park: The Buddha Peace Park offers a tranquil retreat with a massive gold Buddha statue and serene views.
• Easy Accessibility: Nagarkot is located about 28 km from Kathmandu International Airport and is easily accessible by road.
• Honeymoon Destination: The scenic beauty makes Nagarkot a popular spot for honeymooners.

Nagarkot Elevation | Height Above Sea Level

​Nagarkot, located in the Bhaktapur District of Nepal, sits at an elevation of approximately 2,195 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level. This altitude provides visitors with panoramic views of the Himalayas, including glimpses of Mount Everest on clear days.

It's important to note that elevation readings for Nagarkot can vary slightly across different sources, ranging from 1,905 meters (6,250 feet) to 2,200 meters (7,218 feet) . These discrepancies are due to the undulating terrain of the region.​​

Temperature and Climate

Nagarkot, situated at an altitude of 2,175 meters, generally experiences a cooler climate than Kathmandu, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C and night time temperatures significantly lower. It's cooler during the day and chilly at night, especially in the evenings.

Winter (December–February): Nagarkot experiences chilly winters, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, occasionally reaching as low as -5°C. Snowfall is rare but possible, adding a serene charm to the landscape.

Spring (March–May): Spring brings mild and pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Nights remain cool in Nagarkot, averaging 5°C to 10°C. The season is marked by blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, offering excellent mountain views.

Summer/Monsoon (June–August): Summers are warm and humid in Nagarkot, with daytime highs ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Night temperatures hover around 15°C to 20°C. The monsoon season brings frequent rainfall, contributing to the lush greenery but also causing occasional travel disruptions.

Autumn (September–November): Autumn is considered the best time to visit Nagarkot, featuring clear skies and comfortable temperatures between 15°C and 25°C during the day. Nights are cooler, ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The season offers unobstructed views of the Himalayas, making it ideal for trekking and photography.

Location | Where is Nagarkot located?

​Nagarkot is a renowned hill station situated in the Changunarayan Municipality of Bhaktapur District, within Bagmati Province, Nepal. Positioned approximately 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, it offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling capital. From Bhaktapur, the distance is 14 kilometers. It's one of the few places close to Kathmandu where one can experience snowfall during the winter season.

Administrative Details

• Country: Nepal
• Province: Bagmati Province
• District: Bhaktapur District
• Municipality: Changunarayan Municipality

History

In the earlier days, Nagarkot served as a strategic fort (‘kot’ is fort in Nepali) for the rulers of Kathmandu Valley. From here the army could guard and watch out for enemy incursions into their territory. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Nagarkot became a popular summer retreat among the Shah royals and the Rana nobles.

Nagarkot, situated on a ridge overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, has a rich history rooted in its strategic location and the beautiful views it offers. Originally, it served as a fort for the rulers of Kathmandu Valley, guarding against potential invasions. Later, it became a popular summer retreat for the Shah royals and Rana nobles, and later still, a hill station for British colonial residents. Finally, Nagarkot transitioned into a popular tourist destination in the mid-20th century, known for its stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, including Mount Everest. 

• Ancient Fort: Nagarkot's strategic location on a hilltop allowed it to serve as a watchtower and defense point for the Kathmandu Valley. The name "kot" itself translates to "fort" in Nepali.
• Royal Retreat: During the 19th and 20th centuries, Nagarkot became a favored escape for the Nepalese royal families and Rana nobles seeking respite from the summer heat and the bustling city life.
• British Hill Station: The cool climate and panoramic views of the Himalayas attracted British officers and colonial residents during the British colonial period in India.
• Modern Tourist Hub: The breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, began to draw tourists from around the world in the mid-20th century. Its proximity to Kathmandu, a 32-kilometer drive away, further facilitated its growth as a popular tourist destination.

How to get to Nagarkot from Kathmandu?

A winding asphalt road connects Nagarkot to Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot. From Bhaktapur, it takes a little over thirty minutes to reach the hilly town.

You can also hike to Nagarkot from Changu Narayan, Chisapani Sundarijal, and Sankhu. The hiking trails traverse dense forests, small hills, paddy fields, pretty Newari and Tamang villages, and local farms.

There's also a helipad in Nagarkot used by helicopter companies to operate helicopter tours.

Private Vehicle: Opting for a private car or taxi is the most convenient and time-efficient method. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Hiring a private vehicle provides flexibility, comfort, and the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque route at your own pace.​

Public Bus: For a more economical option, public buses are available. The trip involves taking a bus from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur, followed by a transfer to another bus heading to Nagarkot. The entire journey can take approximately 3 to 4 hours. While this mode is budget-friendly, it may be less comfortable and more time-consuming.

Hiking: For the adventurous, hiking from nearby villages like Sankhu to Nagarkot is an option. This trek offers an immersive experience through local communities and natural settings, taking about 5 hours to complete.

Transportation

If you are on a tight budget, you can use local buses. It's difficult to find direct buses to Nagarkot from Kathmandu. You can board a local bus up to Kamal Binayak in Bhaktapur and catch another bus heading to Nagarkot from the bus stop.

If money is not an issue and you want to travel comfortably, you can hire a private taxi to drive you to Nagarkot. In case you don't want to stay overnight in Nagarkot, you can book a taxi for a full day and head to Nagarkot, explore the village, and return to Kathmandu the same day.

You can also rent a motorbike or a mountain bike and ride to Nagarkot. Cycling up the narrow and curvy road to Nagarkot offers a thrilling experience.

Best Things to do in Nagarkot

1. Savor Himalayan view from the view tower- There's a view tower at the top of the village from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range. You can take a short walk to the viewpoint and enjoy gorgeous of the snow-blanketed mountains and hills. To enjoy the sunrise you need to reach the viewpoint before dawn. You can enjoy the same from your hotel if it offers a great view.
2. Explore the village – You can stroll around the village area and visit the farms of villagers. The locals are pretty welcoming and friendly. The village has a school, a health post, an army camp, and a meditation center established by a spiritual organization (Brahma Kumaris).
3. Hiking – There are hiking trails connecting Nagarkot with other scenic spots and ancient landmarks in Kathmandu Valley. A trail beginning from Tel Kot in Nagarkot leads to the temple of Changunarayan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can also hike to the medieval Newari town of Sankhu from Nagarkot via Deurali Danda. The hike takes you across isolated villages, pine forests, and paddy fields.

The Nagarkot-Chisapani Hike is a longer hike that will take 2 days to complete. The hike will have you walking on the rim of the hills surrounding Kathmandu Valley. During the hike, you will walk across Tamang and Newari villages, where you will get to experience their rich culture and interesting lifestyle. The hike ends at the Shivapuri National Park.

4. Biking Tour – The serpentine road from the valley to Nagarkot offers a thrilling ride to motorcyclists and mountain bikers. The curvy turns and uphill and downhill ride through rich forests of pine and oak, and rural farms are sure to delight and gladden the heart of any rider.
5. Chill and Relax – Surrounded by beautiful nature, you can't help but switch into ‘relax mode’ in Nagarkot. The peaceful ambiance will soothe your senses and help you relax and rejuvenate. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, Nagarkot offers a peaceful oasis to de-stress and recharge your inner batteries. If you have just returned from a challenging trek in the Himalayas, Nagarkot offers the right atmosphere to chill and relax.
6. Yoga Retreats: Several yoga retreats, like Mokshya Yoga Retreat and Anand Yoga Home, are located in Nagarkot, offering a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. 
7. Paragliding: Nagarkot Everest View Paragliding offers paragliding experiences with breathtaking mountain views.
8. Nagarkot Buddha Peace Park Hiking Trail: An 8 km trail through pine forests and terraced villages, leading to a serene Buddha statue. Perfect for birdwatching and peaceful reflection .​

Mountains Visible from Nagarkot

From Nagarkot, you can see the vast Himalayan mountain range. On a clear day, you can see the horizon covered by the tall summits of some of the highest mountains in the world. Nagarkot offers splendid views of Langtang, Annapurna South, Annapurna I and II, Mount Everest, Jugal Himal, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, Dorje Lakpa, Shisapangma, Huinchuli, Gyaltzen Peak and the Mahalangur range. The hill station is known for offering panoramic views of these majestic peaks, making it a popular destination for sunrise viewing and hiking.

Accommodation

As Nagarkot is a popular tourist destination, there are a lot of resorts and hotels in the village. You can choose to spend your time relaxing at a luxurious resort or stay overnight at a modest and budget-friendly hotel. Most hotels feature balconies from where you can enjoy the gorgeous views.

There are also homestays available at some of the local farms.

What to pack?

Apart from the essential items, do not forget to carry warm clothes. As Nagarkot lies at a much higher altitude than Kathmandu, it gets chilly, especially at night. Most hotels don't have central heating and the rooms get pretty cold as dusk falls. Dressing up warmly while enjoying the sunrise will protect you from the icy cold wind.

Best Time to Visit Nagarkot

You can visit Nagarkot any time of the year. But to enjoy crystal clear views of the Himalayas, you need to time your travel during the drier autumn or winter months. There's snowfall during mid-winter, which turns this small mountain village into a winter wonderland.

Located above 2000 meters, Nagarkot gets its fair share of cloudy and misty weather. During the summer season, it's usually shrouded in thick fog and mist. While you can't see the mountains, the wispy and cottony clouds covering the forests and hills lend a different charm and beauty to the place.

Check the weather forecast: Before your trip, check the weather forecast to ensure you have the best chance of clear views.

Consider your interests: If you're interested in trekking, spring and autumn are the best times. If you enjoy winter activities, consider visiting in December or January, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snowfall.

Book accommodations in advance: Nagarkot can become popular during peak season, so booking accommodations in advance is recommended. 

Final Note

Nagarkot is a place that deeply immerses you in nature. This hilly village will let you enjoy awesome views of the Himalayan mountains without having to take a long trek into the mountains.  From here, you can follow ancient foot trails and hike deep into the Kathmandu Valley, away from the popular tourist routes. Nagarkot offers the perfect refuge to unwind and relax if you are seeking an escape from the chaos of busy cities.