Nagarkot: Sunrise Tour and Hike to Changu from Kathmandu

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Sunrise Nagarkot
Nagarkot Sunrise
Nagarkot trip
Stunning View from Nagarkot Changu Hike
View from Nagarkot Changu Hike
Stunning Ladscape and Beautiful Scene during Nagarkot Changu Trek
Nagarkot sunrise
Beautiful Landscape and the Himalays from Nagarkot
Women in the village in Nagarkot
Nagarkot Sunrise Trip And Hike To Changunarayan
Sunrise Picture at Nagarkot
Suspension Bridge at Nagarkot Hike

Trip Fact

  • DestinationNepal
  • Durations1 days
  • Trip DifficultyEasy
  • ActivitiesHiking
  • AccommodationNot Applicable
  • MealsNo Meals Included
  • Mx.altitude2175m.
  • VehicleDrive
  • Group SizeMin. 1 Pax

Overview

Highlights

  • Witness a spectacular Himalayan sunrise over Everest and Langtang ranges from the famous Nagarkot Viewpoint
  • Enjoy a refreshing and scenic downhill hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan
  • Walk through beautiful villages, farmlands, pine forests, and peaceful countryside trails
  • Explore the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site – Changunarayan Temple, the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley
  • Experience the local lifestyle and culture of the Hill Region
  • Optional stops at charming viewpoints, a waterfall, and the famous suspension bridge
  • Perfect day trip for nature lovers, photographers, and cultural travelers

The Nagarkot Sunrise Trip and Hike to Changunarayan is one of the most popular day excursions from Kathmandu. This tour begins early in the morning with a scenic drive to Nagarkot, a hill station located at 2,175 meters. It is widely known for offering one of the best Himalayan sunrise views near Kathmandu.

After enjoying an unforgettable sunrise over mountains like Mt. Everest (from a distance), Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shankar, and many others, your hiking adventure begins.

The Nagarkot–Changunarayan hiking trail is an easy to moderate downhill walk filled with natural beauty, rural life, terraced fields, and peaceful forests. The route passes through Tamang villages, giving you a glimpse of authentic Nepali lifestyle. Midway, you may also explore a serene waterfall and a picturesque suspension bridge, depending on trail conditions.

The hike ends at Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This trip perfectly blends nature, culture, and adventure-ideal for travelers looking for soft hiking near Kathmandu.

Best Time to Participate on Nagarkot Sunrise Trip and Hike to Changu

The trip can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best seasons are:

Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, perfect sunrise views
Spring (Mar–May): Flower blossoms, pleasant temperature
Winter (Dec–Feb): Crisp skies and excellent visibility (cold mornings)
Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Green landscapes; sunrise may be cloudy

 

Tour Duration of Nagarkot Sunrise Tour and Trek to Changu

Total Duration: 6 to 8 hours (pick up to drop off)
Hiking Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours (depends on your pace and speed)

 

About the Small Group Hike of Nagarkot Changu

Shepherd Holidays offers a friendly small-group experience, limited to 2–10 participants, ensuring:

  • Personalized attention from the guide
  • Flexible pacing and comfortable walking
  • A social atmosphere with other travelers
  • Enough time for photography and stopovers
  • For guests preferring privacy, a fully private hike is also available.

Pick up from Hotel and Conduct the trip then drop back to Hotel or Airport

4:00 AM – 5:30 AM: Hotel Pickup from Kathmandu

  • Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your Kathmandu hotel.
  • Winter sunrise is later, so pickups are closer to 5:00–5:30 AM, while summer sunrise requires 4:00–4:30 AM pickup.
  • You will then begin a scenic 1-hour drive toward Nagarkot.
  • 6:00 AM – Sunrise View at Nagarkot View Tower

5:30 AM to 6:30 AM – Sunrise View at Nagarkot View Tower (Sunrise Time varies depends on season)

Arrive at Nagarkot View Point and prepare for a breathtaking sunrise

  • Watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the Himalayan ranges including:
  • Mt. Everest (distant view)
  • Langtang Himal
  • Ganesh Himal
  • Gauri Shankar
  • Dorje Lakpa
  • Manaslu range
  • Enjoy plenty of time for photography, relaxation, and panoramic sightseeing.

6:00 AM to 7:30 AM – Light Breakfast / Tea Break (Optional)

  • Stop for tea/coffee or light snacks in a nearby viewpoint café (optional and payable by guests).
  • This break is perfect before starting the downhill hike.

7:00 AM to 8:30 AM – Begin the Hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan

Start your scenic hike from Nagarkot ridge. The trail descends gradually through:

  • Rural villages
  • Terraced farmlands
  • Pine forests
  • Quiet countryside trails
  • Local settlements

Depending on conditions, you may also visit:

  • A refreshing waterfall
  • The scenic suspension bridge

Both are optional attractions along the route.

9:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Arrive at Changunarayan Temple (UNESCO Site) (Optional Visit)

  • Reach the ancient Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley (over 1,600 years old).
  • Your guide will take you around the temple complex, explaining the history, architecture, inscriptions, and sacred sculptures.
  • Take time to explore, relax, and enjoy views over the valley.

10:30 AM – 13:30 PM: Drop Back to Hotel in Kathmandu

  • After the temple visit (Optional), drive back to Kathmandu.
  • You will be dropped at your hotel.
  • Tour concludes.

If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.

Customize my Trip

Cost Details

Cost Includes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off from any location inside or around Ring-Road Kathmandu (Contact us if you are staying quite far from Kathmandu)
  • Private vehicle (or small-group shared transport) with a professional driver
  • English-speaking hiking guide from Shepherd Holidays
  • Nagarkot sunrise tour
  • Guided hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan
  • Bottled drinking water during the hike
  • Salary of guide and driver
  • Fuel and parking fees
  • Government Taxes and Office Expenses

Cost Excludes

  • Changunarayan Temple Entrance Fee (payable on-site if you like to visit)
  • Breakfast, tea, or other beverages at Nagarkot or en route
  • Tips/Gratuities for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
  • Personal expenses (snacks, souvenirs, extra services)
  • Travel insurance
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions list

Good to Know

The hike is mostly downhill and suitable for all fitness levels
Wear comfortable hiking shoes
Sunrise times vary depending on the season
Carry a light jacket (mornings can be cold)
Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
Mobile network coverage is available throughout the trail
Changunarayan Temple has a small entry fee (not included unless specified)

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