Temple Hike: Nagarkot to Changu

The Temple Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan is a captivating one-day adventure that showcases the stunning Himalayan landscape and rich cultural heritage of Nepal. Participants embark on a 5-hour trek through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages, culminating at the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This hike offers a perfect balance of scenic beauty and culture, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an outdoor exploration in a moderate fitness setting. With a focus on creating an unforgettable experience, the details of this hike are sure to pique the interest of any adventurous traveler.

Key Points

• The one-day temple hike spans from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan, an ancient temple established in the 4th century.
• The hike offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Mahalangur, Langtang, and Sagarmatha.
• The trail features dense forests, terraced fields, and traditional Nepali villages, providing a scenic outdoor adventure.
• The package includes a licensed guide, transportation, and entry fees, focusing on culture and affordability.
• The hike requires moderate physical fitness, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or extreme age limits may be advised against participation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Itinerary

The temple hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan is a one-day activity that allows adventurers to explore ancient temples and scenic landscapes.

Participants will meet their guide in Thamel at 7:00 AM and then take a 15-minute bus ride to Bhaktapur. From there, they’ll drive for an hour to Nagarkot, where they’ll witness the sunrise at an elevation of 2174 meters.

The group will then embark on a 5-hour trek to the Changu Narayan Temple, dating back to the 4th century. After exploring the temple, they’ll take a bus back to Kathmandu, arriving around 4:00 PM to reflect on their experiences.

Highlights and Experience

One of the highlights of this temple hike is the panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan ranges, including the Mahalangur, Langtang, and Sagarmatha peaks.

The trail winds through dense forests, terraced fields, and traditional Nepali villages, providing an immersive cultural experience.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, dating back to the 4th century and considered one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley.

Throughout the journey, hikers can appreciate the scenic beauty of Nepal’s countryside, creating an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Inclusions and Costs

Affordability is a key consideration for many travelers, and this temple hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan delivers excellent value. The tour costs only K₨70 per group, up to 1 person.

This inclusive price covers:

• A licensed guide to lead the way
• Taxes, bus ticket fares, and entry fees
• Meals, tips, and gratuities

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation with a full refund if cancelled 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

With a focus on culture and scenic beauty, this temple hike offers an exceptional experience at an affordable price point.

Important Information

While the tour offers excellent value, it’s important to consider certain factors before embarking on this temple hike.

The activity isn’t suitable for those with pre-existing medical conditions, high/low blood pressure, or low fitness levels. Plus, babies under 1 year and people over 95 years old shouldn’t participate.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended. Weather may impact mountain visibility, so be prepared for changing conditions.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and bringing large bags or luggage, smoking, littering, or consuming alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are prohibited.

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Medical Considerations

Typically, this temple hike activity isn’t recommended for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, high or low blood pressure, or low fitness levels.

The hike involves:

1. Ascending over 2,000 meters in elevation, which can be taxing on the cardiovascular system.
2. Trekking for approximately 5 hours through varied terrain, requiring moderate physical exertion.
3. Exposure to changing weather conditions, which could exacerbate certain health issues.

Therefore, the organizers advise participants to carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking this tour.

Individuals with concerns should consult with a healthcare professional to ensure their safety and enjoyment during the hike.

Fitness Requirements

The tour organizers emphasize that this temple hike requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Participants should be able to walk for up to 5 hours over uneven terrain, with some steep inclines. The trek involves traversing forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages, so a good base level of endurance is necessary.

Those with pre-existing medical conditions, high or low blood pressure, or low fitness levels may find the hike challenging. It’s also not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years old.

Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are essential, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains and affect visibility.

Communication and Booking

To reserve the Temple Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan, travelers can use the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

Interested parties can also contact the organizers for inquiries or customization requests. The meeting point is near a gas station beside a flyover, and coordination is done via WhatsApp/Viber or email.

Upon reservation completion, a booking confirmation will be sent via email.

Key booking details:

1. Reservation and payment can be made in advance.
2. Communication channels include WhatsApp/Viber and email.
3. Booking confirmation provided upon successful reservation.

Travelers should also note that luggage, large bags, smoking, littering, and alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle during the trip.

Prohibited Items

Along With the booking details, travelers should be aware of the prohibited items for this Temple Hike.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, the tour organizers have set specific guidelines regarding what can and can’t be brought on the trek. Luggage and large bags aren’t permitted, as they can be cumbersome and disrupt the group’s progress.

Smoking and alcoholic drinks are also prohibited within the vehicle, as the tour aims to maintain a pleasant and respectful atmosphere.

Littering is strictly forbidden, as the organizers are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the trekking route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the hike. The tour operator does not permit bringing animals due to potential disruptions and safety concerns for both the group and the pets themselves during the outdoor trekking activity.

How Many People Can Join the Group?

The group size for the temple hike is up to 1 person. The cost is K 870 per group, which includes a licensed guide, bus tickets, entry fees, and taxes. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Hike?

The hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult, but there’s no specified minimum age requirement for participants.

Can I Take Photos at the Changu Narayan Temple?

Yes, participants can take photos at the Changu Narayan Temple. The temple welcomes visitors and allows photography, though they may charge a small fee for camera use. Visitors should respect the sanctity of the site and refrain from disruptive behavior.

What Should I Pack for the Hike Besides the Recommended Items?

Besides the recommended comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing, one should pack snacks, plenty of water, a sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first-aid kit. It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger for your devices.

Recap

The Temple Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan offers a captivating one-day adventure in Nepal. Trekkers will be treated to stunning Himalayan views and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region. This moderate hike culminates at the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether seeking scenic beauty or cultural experiences, this trek is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: