Nestled in the serene hills and just 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, Nagarkot is a great spot to enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, peaceful natural environment, and calm retreat away from the hectic urban life of Nepal. The quiet hill station is located in the Bhaktapur district and has been flourishing with nature lovers, honeymoon seekers, trekkers, or anyone wanting to experience a calming escape into nature.
Nagarkot is far more than just a pretty place to be! It is also a fantastic place to get a real glimpse of rural Nepali life, experience memorable sunrises, and the base for short hikes and mountain biking. Whether you are here on a day trip, or planning on visiting for a few days, our guide provides all the information you need to enjoy Nagarkot to the max!
Why Visit Nagarkot?
1. Fantastic Views of the Himalayas!
Nagarkot is famous worldwide for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on a clear day! Nagarkot’s vantage point is on a ridge – with eight of the thirteen Himalayan ranges visible including the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, Rolwaling, Mahalangur, and Numbur mountain ranges.
The views are best often first thing in the morning, particularly around sunrise, when the sunlight casts golden light over the icy pinnacles of the mountains. It’s a really magical time of day.
2. Peaceful Vibe
Nagarkot is quiet and sparsely populated, unlike Kathmandu and Bhaktapur city. You will find it difficult not to be relaxed by the sounds of the forest, the chirping of the birds, the pine forests, and green terraced fields, all encourage you to slow down, breathe, and engage with nature.
3. Refreshing Temperature
Nagarkot’s elevation of approximately 2,175 meters (7,136 feet) from sea level allows it to maintain a cool temperate climate all year long. In the summer months, Nagarkot is a refreshing calm from the heat; in winter, you will appreciate the chill air and occasional frost, which create a great back-drop for drinking tea and enjoying the views.
Best Season to Visit Nagarkot
When you go to visit Nagarkot is mostly subjective:
- Autumn (September until November): The sky’s are simply beautiful and cloud free, allowing a perfect view of the Himalayan views.
- Spring (March until May): Rhododendrons bloom and, visibility is reasonable good
- Winter (December until February): Cold but peaceful with less tourists
- Summer (June until August): Green hills for days; but often clouds or frequently rains.
If your main motivation is to get a good view of the Himalayas you should travel in the autumn, as it gives you a great view (as it is often clear) after the monsoon season.
How to Get to Nagarkot
Nagarkot is very accessible from Kathmandu Valley:
- By Private Vehicle – 1.5-hour drive from Kathmandu by way of Bhaktapur. Take a taxi or hire a private jeep.
- By Public Bus – You can take the local bus from Bhaktapur Bus Park to Kamalbinayak, and then transfer to a local bus to Nagarkot. It is not expensive, but it is uncomfortable and will take longer.
- By Hiking or Biking – If you’re adventurous, you can hike or bike from Bhaktapur – or even from Sankhu. There are many scenic hiking or biking trails.
Things to Do in Nagarkot
1. Watch the Sunrise from the Nagarkot View Tower
The Nagarkot View Tower is the highest point in the area to watch the sunrise and it is also the best view of Mount Everest on a clear day along with Lhotse, Manaslu, Langtang and Dorje Lakpa. Arrive early, about 5:30 AM, so you get a good spot.
2. Go Hiking
Nagarkot has many hiking options with variations in difficulty and travel time:
- Nagarkot Nature Trail – A short 3-4 km loop through pine forests and local villages.
- Nagarkot to Changunarayan Hike – This is a popular 4-hour hike downhill to the ancient Changunarayan Temple – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Trek: This is a full day hike through rolling hills and is perfect for active travelers.
3. Mountain Biking
If you are seeking an adrenaline rush, then rent a mountain bike and traverse the countryside on two wheels. There are trails that are easy, to trails that are absolutely technical, from farms, to forests, to small villages. Some hotels have bikes for rent but it is easy to bring your own.
4. Experience Local Culture
Nagarkot may be small but it lays within certainly the most culturally rich district, Bhaktapur. Within a short distance are many Newar Villages, and you can sample local food, see traditional architecture, and meet friendly locals.
5. Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square
If you are on your way to or from Nagarkot and you have not stopped at Bhaktapur Durbar Square then make sure to stop now. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with ancient palaces, temples, and artwork from the grandeur of the Malla era.
Where to Stay in Nagarkot
Nagarkot has accommodation to suit all budgets:
1. Luxury:
- Club Himalaya Nagarkot by ACE Hotels: Arguably the most famous hotel in Nagarkot, hosts luxury rooms with unbeatable views.
- Hotel Mystic Mountain: Modern design, infinity pool, and yoga classes.
2. Mid-range:
- Hotel Country Villa: Great food, panoramic views, and good service.
- Peaceful Cottage & Café du Mont: Comfortable rooms and friendly vibe.
3. Budget:
- Hotel at the End of the Universe: Quirky name, backpacker-friendly.
- Nagarkot Bed & Breakfast: Clean, inexpensive, locally owned.
Local Food and Dining
Most hotels have Nepali and Continental foods, but don’t be shy to try the local food. Some you must try:
- Dal Bhat: Rice with lentils, vegetables, and sometimes meat, the countries national food.
- Chatamari: Rice crepe topped with various foods, often referred to as ‘Newari Pizza’.
- Aloo Tama: A fermented bamboo shoot curry, usually with potatoes and black-eyed peas.
Many hotels have restaurants with open terraces—ideal for sunset dinners or sunrise breakfasts.
Nagarkot Travel Tips
- Dress in Layers: Weather can change quickly in the hills.
- Bring some binoculars or zoom lens: Capture mountain photographs or view birds.
- Check weather forecasts: Clear skies are vital for those stunning views.
- Wake Up Early: Sunrise is what travelling to Nagarkot is all about.
- Support local business: Stay in local hotels, buy local crafts, and eat in local restaurants, i.e. help the local economy.
Conclusion
Nagarkot is one of the few places I have encountered that truly feels slow. We all know the feeling of quietness, a calm, peaceful stillness – the kind of feeling that’s fleeting, gone in a moment: quiet can feel as if it is only a passing moment before rush hour starts again or the children wake up ready to go to school. Nagarkot offers the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas, vibrant sunrises, forest trails and all of the relaxed peacefulness of a village, but it also allows you to tap into the countryside of rural Nepal and experience warm hospitality and local customs and the steadfast pace of village life. While I would recommend Nagarkot for a low-key weekend trip or a base for a hiking trip or just getting up super early in the morning to see the stunning sunrise of the Himalayas, it is a destination I urge all travelers in Nepal to explore. Remember your camera, because you will want to remember it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you see Mount Everest from Nagarkot?
Yes – on a clear day, you can see Mount Everest from Nagarkot – it looks really far away though! Your best shot at glimpsing Everest (and the other peaks of the Himalayas) happens early in the morning, and in autumn and spring when the air is clearest!
2. What distance is Nagarkot from Kathmandu and how do I get there?
Nagarkot is about 32 kilometers, or 20 miles from Kathmandu. It is possible to get to Nagarkot in several ways including by:
- Private car or taxi (1.5 to 2 hours)
- Local buses from Bhaktapur
- Hiking or mountain biking routes for the more adventurous traveler
3. Is Nagarkot family friendly for children?
Absolutely. Nagarkot is a family friendly place with safe walking trails, fresh air, and child friendly hotels. Many of the resorts there are family oriented and designed to offer a level of comfort and stunning views. It is a perfect place for children to experience nature in a safe and outdoor and relaxing environment.