Nagarkot, Nepal: Best Place to See | Best Things to Do

  • Karan
  • Apr 14, 2024

Table of Contents

Nagarkot is a well-known tourist spot in Nepal's Kathmandu Valley for its breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. This small, tranquil hill station draws tourists from all over the world. The town is the ideal getaway for people wishing to get away from the bustle of city life as it is located at an elevation of 2,175 meters above sea level. Furthermore, it is also one of the few places near Kathmandu from where you can see Mt. Everest.

The breathtaking views of the Himalayas that can be seen from Nagarkot are one of the keys contributing to its popularity. Visitors could view the majestic peaks of Mount Everest, Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang on clear days. The sunrise and sunset views from Nagarkot are particularly stunning, with the sun's golden warmth surrealistically illuminating the snow-capped mountains.

In addition to its beautiful landscapes, Nagarkot is renowned for its calm, serene ambiance. The village offers a quiet atmosphere that is difficult to find in the metropolis and surrounded by lush green forests. Guests can appreciate the area's natural beauty by going for long walks or a hike in the adjacent hills. The village is ideal for a day trip or weekend vacation because it has a few modest shops and restaurants that serve local cuisine and sell gifts.

Nagarkot is bestowed with natural beauty and a rich cultural and historical past. The Changunarayan Temple and the Nagarkot Temple are two noteworthy examples of the town's numerous historic temples and shrines. Through mingling with the pleasant and welcoming locals, visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of the area.

In general, Nagarkot is an essential stop for tourists visiting Nepal. It is the ideal destination to unwind and rest while taking in the beauty of nature because of its mesmerizing scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and rich cultural legacy.

Ways to Reach Nagarkot

Different modes of transportation are available to reach Nagarkot from cities in Nepal. Visitors can choose from public buses, private cars, taxis, and even hire a motorbike to travel to Nagarkot.

Public buses are the most affordable means of transportation. The bus terminals in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and other nearby cities are where buses leave from. Depending on the route chosen and the traffic on the road, the bus travel could last one to three hours.

Moreover, vehicles and taxis are also available, which provide better luxury and convenience than buses. Depending on the route chosen and traffic, the trip may take one to two hours. Although hiring a private car or taxi may be more costly, it is a faster and more pleasant alternative.

Riding a motorbike is an additional method of getting to Nagarkot. It is a preferred choice for adventure seekers who appreciate taking scenic routes. The ride may last between two and three hours.

Overall, there are many ways for tourists to go to Nagarkot, and they may pick the one that better fits their financial situation, degree of comfort, and desire for adventure. No matter the method of transportation, the trip to Nagarkot is beautiful and gives travelers a chance to take in Nepal's raw beauty.

10 Great Things to Do in Nagarkot

Several hiking paths in and around Nagarkot provide breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it a popular destination for hikers. However, there are tons of other things that visitors can do in Nagarkot:

  1. Hike to Changunarayan Temple: Take a scenic hike from Nagarkot to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Changunarayan Temple. The temple dates back to the 4th century and is a significant cultural and historical attraction in Nepal.
  2. Watch the Sunrise: Get up early to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas from one of Nagarkot's breathtaking vantage points. Not to be missed is this breathtaking sight.
  3. Visit Nagarkot View Tower: Ascend the stairs to the top of Nagarkot View Tower for a panoramic view of the Himalayas. The tower is one of the most popular viewpoints in Nagarkot.
  4. Explore the local culture: Experience the rich culture and traditions of the Newar community by interacting with the friendly locals, visiting local festivals, and trying local cuisine.
  5. Mountain biking: Rent a mountain bike and explore the scenic countryside around Nagarkot on two wheels. It is a wonderful way to take in the area's natural beauty.
  6. Paragliding: Soar high above Nagarkot with a paragliding experience. It offers a unique perspective of the town and the surrounding mountains.
  7. Horse riding: Take a leisurely horse ride through the scenic countryside and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
  8. Visit the Nagarkot Panoramic Viewpoint, which is a famous destination for photographers since it provides a 180-degree vista of the Himalayas.
  9. Take a stroll through Nagarkot Village to learn more about the traditional architecture and way of life of the residents.
  10. Trek to Dhulikhel: Take a trek from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas and the local villages along the way.

Best Place to See in Nagarkot

Nagarkot is renowned for its breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan range, which include Mt. Everest. The Nagarkot View Tower, which provides 360-degree views of the nearby mountains and valleys, is the ideal site to see spectacular sights. Visitors can view the peaks of Langtang, Gaurishankar, Ganesh Himal, and other mountain ranges as the sun rises or sets over the Himalayas. 

In addition, tourists can go to adjacent towns where they can learn about the customs and culture and breathe in the clean mountain air. For those seeking magnificent natural beauty and a tranquil break from the hustle of the capital city of Nepal, Nagarkot is a must-visit location.

Accommodation Options in Nagarkot

A variety of lodging choices are available in Nagarkot to accommodate different vacation needs and price ranges. Hotels, lodges, guesthouses, and homestays are the most common lodging options in Nagarkot.

Hotels in Nagarkot range in price from inexpensive to luxurious, with ordinary rooms costing about $25 USD per night. Club Himalaya, Hotel Country Villa, and Nagarkot Bed and Breakfast are a few of the well-known hotels in Nagarkot.

More cheap options include lodges and guesthouses, with modest rooms starting at about $10 USD per night. Hotel Himalayan Villa, Nagarkot Farmhouse, and Peaceful Cottage & Café du Mont are a few of the well-known lodges and guesthouses in Nagarkot.

Homestays are a fantastic opportunity to get a taste of Nagarkot's local customs and culture. Homestay costs start at roughly $15 USD per night but might vary depending on the amenities offered. Nagarkot Home Stay and Mountain View Homestay are two examples of the city's well-known homestays.

The Club Himalaya Resort and The Fort Resort are great choices for people wanting an opulent vacation. Both boast a variety of amenities, including spas, restaurants, and outdoor activities, and both provide breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Nagarkot offers a variety of lodging choices to accommodate all travel needs and price ranges. In this lovely village, you're sure to find the ideal spot to stay, whether you're searching for an affordable guesthouse or an opulent resort.

Shopping in Nagarkot

Shopping in Nagarkot may be enjoyable and gives tourists the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind traditional goods and mementos. There are a few neighborhood markets and shops where tourists can find regional goods and souvenirs, even if Nagarkot may not be well-known as a major shopping destination.

The Nagarkot Bazaar, one of Nagarkot's busiest markets, offers a variety of goods, including apparel, accessories, and handicrafts created in the area. The market is a terrific place to find gifts to bring home and is open every day.

There are many traditional handicrafts and souvenirs to choose from in Nagarkot, including pashmina shawls, wool blankets, and traditional brass and copper cookware. Visitors can also find locally made pottery and wood carvings, as well as traditional Nepali clothing and jewelry.

Keep in mind that prices are frequently flexible in local markets when you're trying to haggle and get the finest offers. Visitors should be ready to barter a little and not be scared to leave if they think the price is too high.

Overall, Nagarkot shopping is a fantastic method to get distinctive indigenous goods and mementos to bring home. To obtain the finest offers and discounts, visitors should be prepared to haggle and explore the local marketplaces.

Best Time to Visit Nagarkot

A little village west of Kathmandu, Nepal's Nagarkot is well-known for its breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan range, which include Mt. Everest. The optimum time to visit Nagarkot, however, largely depends on the weather and other circumstances.

Nepal has four different seasons: winter (December to February), autumn (September to November), and summer (June to August). (December to February). Every season has its own weather patterns and temperature ranges, which can significantly impact how enjoyable a trip to Nagarkot is overall.

Nagarkot is thought to be best visited in the spring and fall when the weather is typically clear and dry. Spring is the best season for trekking and outdoor activities since the flowers are in bloom and the air is crisp and clean. Autumn is a well-liked season for trekking and mountain climbing since the sky are clear and the mountain views are beautiful.

Visitors may find it difficult during the summer and monsoon months of June to August because of the risk of landslides and transportation disruptions brought on by heavy rain. For some guests, the heat and humidity can also be uncomfortable.

Winter, which lasts from December to February, is ideal for those who enjoy winter activities because of the milder temperatures and sporadic precipitation. However, the mountain views might not be as clear as in the spring or fall, and the chilly weather might make some people less inclined to enjoy outdoor activities. 

Overall, spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Nagarkot because the weather is typically clear and dry and the mountain vistas are breathtaking. To provide the greatest possible experience, visitors should plan their trip appropriately and check weather forecasts before departing.

Important Things To Know About Nagarkot Before You Arrive

Nagarkot, a charming village west of Kathmandu, Nepal, is well-known for its breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan range, which include Mt. Everest. Here are some pointers for guests arriving in Nagarkot for the first time:

Pack sensibly: Nagarkot's weather is erratic, so be sure to bring clothing suitable for a variety of climates. Bring warm clothes for the cool evenings and a raincoat or umbrella in case of sudden downpours.

It's crucial to wear comfortable shoes that can handle rough terrain because Nagarkot is famed for its hiking routes and outdoor activities.

Carry enough cash to last the duration of your journey because there are no ATMs in Nagarkot. Some inns and eateries might take credit cards.

Because Nagarkot is a village that is predominantly Hindu, tourists should show respect for local traditions and customs. When visiting temples, visitors should dress modestly, and they should take their shoes off before entering sacred areas.

Conclusion

Anyone looking for breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest, must visit Nagarkot. The top attractions in Nagarkot Including paragliding or mountain biking are some of the many things to do at Nagarkot. Any person who wants to go to Nagarkot should get up early to see the dawn over the mountains since the scenery is just magnificent. Flying to Nagarkot for a singular and amazing experience will be more than worth what you’ve expected. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor activities, Nagarkot is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Nepal.

FAQs

Does Nagarkot offer a view of the dawn and sunset?

Yes, people frequently visit Nagarkot to view the sunrise and sunset. Nagarkot's sunrise vista is particularly well-known because it provides breathtaking all-encompassing views of the Himalayas.

What traditional cuisine is offered in Nagarkot?

Several traditional Nepalese foods are available in Nagarkot, including thukpa, momos, and lentil soup with rice and vegetable curry. (a noodle soup). Restaurants in the area also provide Newari food, which is a well-known culinary tradition in the Kathmandu Valley.

Does Nagarkot offer a view of Mount Everest?

Certainly, Mount Everest may be seen from Nagarkot on a clear day. The view might not be as clear as it is from other spots because the peak is over 100 kilometers away.

What purpose does the Nagarkot View Tower serve?

The Nagarkot View Tower, a well-liked tourist destination in Nagarkot, provides 360-degree views of the area's mountains and valleys. The tower was constructed by the Nepal Tourism Board to promote tourism in the region and provide visitors with a distinctive view of Nagarkot's beauty.

How far is Nagarkot from Kathmandu?

The drive-by automobile takes about 1.5 hours and covers roughly 32 km between Nagarkot and Kathmandu.

Karan

Karan

Travel Writer and adventurer