Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise View Tour and Hike Changunarayan

Experience the captivating allure of the Himalayas with Kathmandu’s "Nagarkot Sunrise View Tour and Hike Changunarayan." This 6-hour excursion promises a mesmerizing start to the day, from the stunning sunrise at Nagarkot to the scenic trek through traditional Nepali landscapes, culminating at the historic Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With an English-speaking guide and breathtaking vistas, this tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, enticing those seeking an unforgettable adventure. But the real question is, are you ready to embark on this extraordinary journey?

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Bhaktapur.

Key Points

• This 6-hour tour offers a captivating sunrise view at Nagarkot and a scenic hike to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Changunarayan Temple.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English-speaking guide, and the optional entry fee for Changunarayan Temple.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those with heart problems due to the early start and hiking involved.
• Travelers should come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and necessary supplies like water and snacks for the hike.
• The tour provides an enriching experience combining the natural beauty of the Himalayas with the cultural heritage of Nepal.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise View Tour and Hike Changunarayan," offers an immersive experience exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley.

Priced from $145 per person, the 6-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English-speaking guide for the hike. Guests can witness the breathtaking sunrise at Nagarkot hill station, enjoy a mountain-view breakfast, and embark on a scenic hike to the UNESCO-listed Changunarayan Temple.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the region’s highlights, catering to travelers seeking an active yet enriching adventure.

Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary begins with an early 5:00 AM departure from the hotel, allowing guests to reach the Nagarkot hill station by 6:00 AM.

From 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM, visitors can witness the breathtaking sunrise over the snow-capped mountains.

Following the sunrise, guests enjoy a breakfast with panoramic views of the Himalayas.

At 8:00 AM, the group embarks on a hike, seeing the serene Nepali village landscapes and forests.

The tour culminates with the arrival at the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, around 12:00 PM, before the return to the hotel by 1:00 PM.

Highlights

Watching the sunrise from Nagarkot hill station is a captivating highlight of the tour. As the sky gradually brightens, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

After the sunrise, guests can enjoy a delightful breakfast while soaking in the majestic mountain views.

The tour also includes a scenic hike through a traditional Nepali village and nearby woods, culminating in a visit to the historic Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This combination of natural beauty and cultural exploration offers a truly enriching experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the wonders of Nepal.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup from and return to hotels within the Kathmandu Valley, with the exact pickup time confirmed the day prior.

Transportation to and from Nagarkot and an English-speaking guide for the hike are provided. Entrance fees to the Changunarayan Temple are also included.

The tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transportation to/from Nagarkot
• English-speaking guide for hike
• All taxes and charges
• Entry fee for Changunarayan Temple (optional)

However, personal expenses, meals, and gratuities for the guide and driver are excluded from the tour package.

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Exclusions

While the tour package includes several key amenities, there are also a few exclusions to be aware of.

Personal expenses and meals such as breakfast, lunch, and drinks aren’t covered in the tour cost. The guide is only provided for the hike portion, so travelers opting for the sunrise viewing only won’t have a guide.

Plus, gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t included. It’s important to budget for these additional expenses to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The tour organizers provide clear information upfront to help travelers plan accordingly.

Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, or wheelchair users.

However, the experience offers a wealth of insights for those who can partake. Participants should come prepared with:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm clothing to combat the chilly mornings
• A camera to capture the breathtaking scenery
• Snacks and water to sustain them during the hike
• Entrance fees for the Changunarayan Temple, payable on-site if visited

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited.

With the right precautions and preparation, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of Nagarkot’s sunrise and the hike through the Nepali countryside.

Not Suitable For

Pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, or wheelchair users may find this tour physically challenging.

The itinerary involves an early morning departure, a hike through Nepali villages and woods, and exploring the Changunarayan Temple. Participants must be able to walk for extended periods and navigate uneven terrain.

Those with limited mobility may have difficulties accessing certain areas of the tour. The sunrise viewing and breakfast at Nagarkot require climbing stairs and navigating hills.

For those unable to undertake the physical aspects of the tour, alternative options may be more suitable.

What to Bring

For this tour, participants should come prepared with the right gear and essentials. The mornings can be chilly, so warm clothing is a must. A comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential for the hike through the Nepali village and woods.

Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and the Changunarayan Temple. Carrying water and snacks will keep you hydrated and fueled during the tour.

Plus, consider packing the following:

• Sunscreen
• Hat or cap
• Light rain jacket
• Insect repellent
• Moisture-wicking socks

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Stop at Local Markets During the Hike?

The tour does not mention any stops at local markets during the hike. The focus appears to be on the sunrise viewing, breakfast, and visiting the Changunarayan Temple. Stopping at markets would likely not be included in this specific tour itinerary.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the tour, though you’ll need to discuss this with the tour operator. They may be able to accommodate a longer itinerary or customize the tour to suit your preferences.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Participants?

There are no strict age restrictions, but the tour may not be suitable for very young children or the elderly. Participants should be able to walk for several hours on uneven terrain.

Can We Visit Other Temples Along the Hike?

The tour doesn’t include visiting other temples during the hike. It’s focused on the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Participants can’t stray from the planned route and activities.

Will the Guide Provide Information About the Local Culture and History?

The guide will provide information about the local culture and history during the hike. They’ll share insights into the traditions, beliefs, and significance of the temples and landmarks along the way.

Recap

The Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise View Tour and Hike Changunarayan offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, savor a mountain-view breakfast, and explore the historic Changunarayan Temple, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and an English-speaking guide. It’s an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Nepal’s captivating landscapes and ancient traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: