Nagarkot to Changunarayan day hike

Based on 4 reviews

  • Destination:Nepal
  • Total Duration:2 Days
  • Trip Grade:Easy

Trip Overview

The Nagarkot to Changunarayan Temple day hike is probably the best day hiking on the outskirts of the spiritual Kathmandu valley. Nagarkot is located 32 km to the north; a few hours’ drive in a local or rented vehicle that will take you to a small village on the hill top, famous for its panoramic mountain views of Himalayas ranging from Dhaulagiri massif in west and all the way to Kanchanjunga in east. And obvious first choice for those willing to see the highest peak in the world from the nearest spot in Kathmandu, Nagarkot is the only place from where you can view Mt. Everest – all you need is a pair of binoculars. It is a real treat of a perfect getaway from the hectic schedules of city life. You will be away from the noises of big markets, busy streets and have ample time to relax and get close to nature, travelling through beautiful forest areas towards one of the renowned heritage sites of Kathmandu valley. 

Nagarkot is located at almost 2200 m altitude, a mild uphill compared to foothills of massive mountain belts and yet packed with some punches of cool breeze and some tough steep areas. It is a perfect spot for you to rekindle your relationship with your loved ones, friends and close ones on the natural backdrop. You can always bring your spouse, other significant half, besties, children or parents and in-laws, enjoy quality time with them, rejoice and strengthen relationship or simply have a memorable weekend blast. Amidst the chirping birds within the proximity, lush green forest provides the peaceful feeling that will purify your mind as well as your soul.

For the best experience of Nepal and Nepali beauty and hospitality, you will arrive at Nagarkot before dusk. You will be transferred to your respective hotels and soon taken to the viewpoint for the sunset view. The golden rays of the setting sun engulf the magnificent mountains coloring them in its array of beams to reflect fascinating natural artwork – a memorable one for life time. Soon after, you will head to your respective hotels for dinner and the night stay.

The next day, you will start the day early in the morning with a beautiful view of glorious sunrise. You will spend an hour enjoying and praising and after you have your breakfast, you will start the downhill Nagarkot to Changunarayan day hike towards temple. The hike is around 4 hours long with the trail passing through old villages rich in unique culture and cheerful people. You can interact with these local people – as you view through the old settlement, their unique way of life and close connection to nature.

The ending point is Changunarayan temple which is the oldest temple in Nepal. The temple is enlisted in UNESCO World heritage site. It is the hub for Nepalese history and rich culture, a living museum that tells you the tale that is as old as 5th century. 

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu 
  • Day 2: Early hike towards the view point for the sunrise view.

Detail Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal, the country of mountains and rich culture. You will be greeted and warmly received by our representative, who will further help you with the transportation to transfer you to your respective hotels. 

You will be taken to Nagarkot towards your hotel. Take some refreshing bath and rest.

You will hike towards the view point for the sunset view.

A nice breakfast, before you start hiking. Slow but interesting descend towards Changunarayan.

At Changunarayan, you will have some lunch and afterwards, you will take the transportation to head back to Kathmandu for final departure. 

" Dolma Treks covered all aspects of my dream trip: hotels, logistics, food, permits.
Tsering Lama is a very seasoned trip organizer and guide that knows the way things work locally, which means a hassle-free, pure joy adventure. I have traveled to Nepal 5 times so far, always with Dolma Treks. Have done a bit of everything: culture, trekking, yoga retreat, educational visits, rescue visits (Earthquake 2015). I have been solo, with friends, and even with my young son since he was 7. Everything was perfect, every single time.

I loved every second of my trips to Nepal and I simply can't wait to be back" 

M/s C. Kasper,
Brazil

I would just like to say that our trekking holiday in Langtang National Park & our Bridim homestay with Tsering Lama and his wonderful porters "Lale and Mingmar" was the most memorable, amazing holiday I have ever experienced. The guidance and support given were just so great. My wish is that my Aussie friends join a trek with Dolma Tours one day to experience this amazing country of Nepal. Thank you, Tsering. Your Aussie friends, Tania, Steve & Jesse Pitt

Tania,Steve & Jesse Pitt,

I recently went on Tsering's 17-day tour of Nepal, in Oct/Nov 2013.
Tsering is an exceptional tour leader, very organized and a welcoming host. 
He paid much attention to detail both in the planning of the itinerary and throughout the course of the trip.  Right from the beginning, the pre-departure information was excellent and I felt very well-prepared.  Any questions I had about the trekking were answered promptly by email.
Tsering's itinerary has a lovely variety of places to visit: in Kathmandu, trekking in the Annapurna mountains, visiting the Chitwan National Park, and a stunning flight over Mount Everest.  On our trek, the porters were very helpful, friendly and spoke a little English.
Tsering was always professional and timely. We were also given great insight into the generosity of the Nepali people by being invited into his family home.
Heartfelt thanks again from me for a wonderful trip!

Mrs. M. Barnett,
Auckland, NZ

We joined one of Tsering's trips to Annapurna and Chitwan in October 2013, where Tsering warmly welcomed us at the airport and confidently and efficiently organized everything for us from the moment we arrived until our departure 17 days later, making the entire trip extremely relaxing and enjoyable.
His guidance with local customs and his ability to communicate clearly in English was invaluable in ensuring we were completely informed at all times of our programme.  His command of local languages meant we were afforded the best treatment at the local hotels, lodges, and restaurants throughout our trip.
The trip was a wonderful balanced mix of the frantic bustle of Kathmandu, the grandeur of the Annapurna mountains, and the thrill of the Chitwan jungle, all complemented by a style of travel that exposes you to, and allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture to the extent you are personally willing and comfortable with.
The local guides Tsering organized were very competent and knowledgeable, giving us a great opportunity to absorb, understand and appreciate the breadth and depth of Nepal's history and the many cultures that make up its friendly people. Tsering gave us a marvelous insight into the recent history and of current events that gave us a wonderful context and appreciation of what makes the nation of Nepal what it is today and influences its future.
For the trek, Tsering organized a friendly team of local porters and guides who worked so hard carrying our gear over the often steep terrain of the mountains. Special mention goes to our lead guide Lale, who ensured the trek was perfectly paced to match the abilities of our relatively senior group. The guides and porters always had a friendly and smiling disposition, and we had a marvelous party with them on our last night, sharing cultural song and dance.
Tsering is generous of both time and nature, we were privileged to meet his family, and we particularly enjoyed the company of his enchanting 11yo son Jigme on our trip, and of his young friend Amod.
I would unreservedly recommend Tsering as a guide to anyone travelling to Nepal who is wanting to get to know this intriguing and beautiful country and its friendly people, and who enjoys knowing everything is confidently organized for you in a relaxed and efficient manner by a knowledgeable local who is a marvelous ambassador for his people and his country.
Thank you, Tsering, I sincerely hope we have the opportunity to visit Nepal again someday and enjoy your friendly and proficient service.

Mr. G. Clark,
Auckland NZ

Tsering and his trekking company were brought to my attention by my daughter who had trekked with friends in Nepal. That trip was led by Tsering who was already known to one of the group. This group so recommended Tsering, that my wife and I decided upon a trekking tour under his guidance.
We were not any stage disappointed. Tsering contacted us and after considering age, fitness and wishes, designed what he thought was an appropriate tour. He emailed a comprehensive programme with some beautiful pictures and suggested dates. We arranged the flights to and from Kathmandu and brought in a couple of friends.
From our arrival until our departure, every detail was arranged. All accommodation, transport guides, porters, and dining was minutely cared for leaving us the freedom to simply enjoy ourselves. The team he engaged were known to him and endlessly strived to assist. Friendliness and honesty were so obvious.
Westerners are usually apprehensive about local cooking and food hygiene. Tsering always stationed one of the porters in the kitchens of the tea houses to oversee the cleanliness of food preparation. Some of his team are also chefs. It is a matter of pride for him that virtually all his tourists complete their trips without gastric upset.
Tsering is very kind, caring and attentive to detail. He is great fun, has a keen political insight as well as concern for the education of his young countrymen. He is honest and generous to a fault - as are his lovely family whom we met. We also enjoyed their hospitality.
If we return to Nepal there is absolutely no doubt we would ask Tsering to undertake our planning and if possible accompany us. He was faultless and thus I have no hesitation in recommending his company to your favorable attention.

Mr. & Mrs. Peters from Poole,
Poole, UK

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