Full Day Nagarkot Hiking With UNESCO Heritage Site Changu & Lunch

Nestled in the hills just outside Kathmandu, Nagarkot offers a breathtaking escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This full-day hiking adventure takes adventurers on a 9.5 km trek through diverse landscapes, culminating in a visit to the UNESCO-listed Changu Narayan Temple. Along the way, hikers can enjoy Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, savor authentic Nepali cuisine, and revel in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds them. With an experienced guide leading the way, this excursion promises to be an unforgettable journey for those seeking to explore the wonders of Nepal beyond the capital’s boundaries.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Lunch Experiences In Kathmandu.

Key Points

• Full-day hiking tour from Kathmandu to Nagarkot, covering approximately 9.5 km of primarily downhill terrain.
• Visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Changu Narayan Temple, a 4th-century CE cultural heritage site.
• Lunch with authentic Nepali dishes, including vegetarian options, provided as part of the tour package.
• Tour led by a professional English-speaking guide, suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level.
• Transportation from Kathmandu hotels included, with convenient pickup and efficient arrival at the hike’s starting point.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day hiking tour from Kathmandu to Nagarkot offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Guests will hike approximately four hours downhill, visiting traditional villages and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Changu Narayan Temple along the way.

Accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Kathmandu and a provided lunch with vegetarian options.

Although not wheelchair accessible, the moderate hike is suitable for travelers with a decent fitness level.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and cultural insights provided on this experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking an immersive day exploring Nepal’s natural and historical wonders.

Tour Details

The hiking tour lasts approximately eight hours in total. The distance covered is 9.5 km, mostly downhill.

Transportation to and from the tour is provided via a private vehicle, with pickups from centrally located Kathmandu hotels. Lunch is included, with vegetarian options available upon request at the time of booking.

The key tour details are:

1. Duration: Approximately 8 hours

2. Distance: 9.5 km trek, mostly downhill

3. Transportation: Private vehicle pickup from Kathmandu hotels

4. Lunch: Provided, with vegetarian options available

Transportation and Pickup

Private vehicles are used to provide transportation for the hiking tour, picking up participants from centrally located hotels within Kathmandu Valley. This service is included in the tour price.

Travelers staying outside the Kathmandu Valley must make their own way to the meeting point by 10 am. The tour doesn’t accommodate wheelchair users, and infants must sit on their parents’ laps during the drive.

The transportation is efficient, allowing the group to reach the starting point of the hike comfortably. The private vehicle pickup is a convenient feature that helps ensure a smooth start to the day’s adventure exploring the Nagarkot region and visiting the UNESCO-listed Changu Narayan Temple.

Lunch and Meal Options

Lunch is provided as part of the tour package, with vegetarian options available upon request at the time of booking.

The lunch menu typically features a selection of authentic Nepali dishes, allowing you to savor the flavors of the local cuisine.

Here are four highlights of the lunch options:

1. Daal-Bhat-Tarkari: The quintessential Nepali meal, consisting of lentil soup, steamed rice, and a variety of vegetable curries.

2. Momos: Delectable Nepali-style dumplings, either steamed or fried, filled with a savory mixture of vegetables or meat.

3. Gundruk: A traditional fermented and dried leafy green, often served as a side dish.

4. Sel Roti: A sweet, ring-shaped rice bread that’s a popular snack in Nepal.

Temple Admission and Fees

Entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Changu Narayan Temple isn’t included in the tour package price, requiring visitors to purchase tickets separately upon arrival.

Admission fees typically range from around $5 to $10 per person, depending on factors such as nationality and whether visitors are students or seniors.

The temple is considered one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley, dating back to the 4th century CE, and offers a unique opportunity to explore Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests can take their time exploring the intricate carvings, sculptures, and architectural elements that make this temple a significant historical and religious site.

While not part of the core tour, visiting Changu Narayan Temple is a highly recommended add-on for those interested in seeing Nepalese culture.

Physical Fitness Requirements

For this hiking tour, a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Participants will need to trek approximately 9.5 km, mostly downhill, over the course of around four hours.

While the terrain isn’t overly challenging, the hike does require a degree of stamina and stability. Travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions may find the excursion unsuitable.

Wearing appropriate trekking shoes and carrying water and snacks are strongly recommended to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The physical fitness requirements for this tour include:

1. Ability to walk for approximately four hours on uneven terrain.

2. Suitable for individuals with moderate fitness levels, not recommended for those with serious medical conditions.

3. Proper footwear, such as trekking shoes, is essential.

4. Carrying water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have widely praised the Nagarkot Hiking tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 55 reviews. Reviewers commonly highlight the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful Himalayan scenery, and the valuable cultural insights gained throughout the experience.

While a few noted issues with lunch availability and litter on the trails, the majority of feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Customers particularly appreciate the ease of the hike and the opportunity to enjoy the local culture.

The tour’s professional English-speaking guides have been praised for their friendliness and deep understanding of Nepalese nature and traditions, further enhancing the experience for participants.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Bookings can confirm the pickup location up to 24 hours prior to the activity.

Prices vary based on group size, starting from $68.00 per person.

The booking process is straightforward:

1. Choose your preferred tour date and group size.
2. Provide your hotel details for pickup.
3. Make the payment securely online.
4. Receive your confirmation voucher by email.

The guides are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge of Nepalese culture and nature.

With flexible cancellation policies and transparent pricing, booking this hiking adventure is a hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Nagarkot?

The best time to visit Nagarkot is during the dry seasons of autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). These periods offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning mountain views, making them the ideal times for hiking and enjoying the scenic landscape.

Is Photography Allowed Within the Changu Narayan Temple?

Photography is generally allowed within the Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, visitors should be respectful and follow any posted rules or guidance from temple staff regarding photo-taking during their visit.

Do I Need a Permit to Hike This Trail?

No, a permit is not required to hike the trail from Kathmandu to Nagarkot. The tour package includes round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide to facilitate the hike through the villages and to the Changu Narayan Temple.

Is There an Option to Extend the Hike Beyond Nagarkot?

There are options to extend the hike beyond Nagarkot, though they’re not part of this specific tour. Travelers can inquire about custom hiking itineraries that go further into the Himalayan foothills if they want a longer trekking experience.

Can I Book This Tour for a Group of 10 or More People?

Yes, you can book this tour for a group of 10 or more people. The tour allows for flexible group sizes, and the price varies based on the total number of participants in the group.

Recap

This full-day hiking adventure from Kathmandu to Nagarkot offers a remarkable opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes, discover a UNESCO World Heritage site, and savor authentic Nepali cuisine.

With a knowledgeable guide, travelers will enjoy the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this unforgettable journey, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an active and enlightening experience.