Nagarkot Sunrise Hike is a one-day hike from Kathmandu that combines breathtaking Himalayan views, local culture, and an easy countryside hike. Travelers drive early morning to Nagarkot Hill (2,175m) to watch the sunrise over Mt. Everest and the Langtang range, then hike down through terraced fields and villages to the UNESCO-listed Changu Narayan Temple. It’s the perfect short adventure for nature and culture lovers.
The Nagarkot Sunrise Hike is one of Nepal’s most popular short adventures. This 1-day guided Hiking in Kathmandu lets you experience Himalayan beauty, local culture, and peaceful countryside life just a few hours from Kathmandu.
The Nagarkot Day Hike begins before dawn as you drive to Nagarkot (2,175m), a hill station famous for its panoramic sunrise view over the Himalayas. When the first light spreads across the snowcapped peaks, including Mt. Everest, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, and Annapurna, it’s pure magic.
After seeing the sunrise over the Himalayas, you’ll enjoy breakfast with a Himalayan. We then start to hike toward Changu Narayan Temple (1,550m), Nepal’s oldest UNESCO-listed temple. The trail winds through terraced fields, traditional Newari villages, and forested ridges, offering a taste of authentic rural life.
The Nagarkot Sunrise and Changu Narayan Hike is suitable for all fitness levels; it’s peaceful, scenic, and rewarding. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or traveler wanting a short escape, it’s the perfect day Hike from Kathmandu.
Looking for a longer version? Check out our Nagarkot Overnight Hike or the scenic Chisapanni Nagarkot Hiking for more Himalayan views and countryside experiences.
Find the attractions of the Nagarkot Day Hike and what to expect on the Day Hike in Nagarkot.
Your day begins before dawn as you drive to Nagarkot (2,175m), a peaceful hilltop village known for its world-famous Himalayan Sunrise views. As the horizon brightens, the first golden light slowly touches the snowcapped peaks from Everest and Lhotse to Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna. It’s a breathtaking spectacle that photographers and nature lovers call one of the most beautiful moments in Nepal.
After enjoying breakfast with a panoramic view, you’ll begin your hike toward Changu Narayan Temple (1,550m). The trail winds gently downhill through terraced farmlands, pine forests, and traditional Newari and Tamang villages.
You’ll pass smiling locals carrying baskets, children walking to school, and farmers working the fields- a glimpse into authentic rural Nepal life. The Nagarkot Day Hike is easy to moderate, takes about 3-4 hours, and is suitable for travelers of all ages. Along the way, the fresh mountain air, birdsong, and distant Himalayan backdrop create an unforgettable atmosphere of peace.
The Nagarkot Day Hike isn’t just about landscapes, it’s about connection. You’ll walk through settlements where people still live traditionally, growing crops, raising livestock, and weaving baskets. It’s a wonderful chance to interact with locals, taste village tea, and see how time slows down in the Nepali countryside.
Nagarkot’s ridgeline is rich in biodiversity, pine forests, seasonal wildflowers, and colorful birds accompany your journey. The peaceful environment and crisp mountain air make the Nagarkot Day Hike ideal for mindful travelers seeking a calm, rejuvenating escape from city bustle.
The Nagarkot Day Hike concludes at the ancient Changu Narayan Temple. The Changu Narayan Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Nepal’s oldest surviving Hindu Temple, built in the 4th century and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s intricate wood and stone carvings date back over 1,500 years, showcasing Kathmandu Valley’s rich artistry and devotion.
Exploring this sacred site adds a perfect cultural finish to your nature-filled day.
The Nagarkot Sunrise and Changu Narayan Hike is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic day adventure near Kathmandu without days of trekking. The Nagarkot Sunrise and Changu Narayan Hike is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The hike blends light adventure with relaxation and cultural discovery.
Nagarkot Sunrise and Changu Narayan Hike is ideal if you have limited time but still wish to witness the Himalayan sunrise over Everest and other peaks in comfort.
If you love nature, local culture, photography, and peaceful countryside walks, this trip is made for you. Nagarkot Sunrise and Changu Narayan Hike is also a great choice for anyone wanting to escape the city’s bustle and experience a refreshing side of Nepal, all in one day.
Booking your Nagarkot Sunrise day trip with Outfitter Himalaya means traveling with a reliable, local company that values safety, comfort, and authentic experiences.
All trips turns into a memorable Himalayan experience filled with warmth, comfort, and genuine Nepali hospitality with Outfitter Himalaya Holidays in Nepal.
The Nagarkot Sunrise Hike is a peaceful, scenic day adventure that begins before dawn and ends by evening, ideal for travelers looking to experience Nepal’s Himalayan beauty in a single day.
You’ll start early with a drive to Nagarkot (2,175m) for the famous sunrise over Mount Everest and the Langtang Range, followed by a leisurely hike through terraced fields and local villages to reach the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sunrise Experience at Nagarkot (2,175m)
Morning: Breakfast with a View
After the sunrise, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant or hotel terrace overlooking the Himalayas.
Savor Nepali tea or coffee as you watch the changing colors of the mountains and nearby valleys.
Late Morning to Early Afternoon: Hike to Changu Narayan Temple (3–4 Hours)
You will start your scenic downhill hike toward Changu Narayan. The trail meanders through terraced farmland, forested ridges, and traditional villages such as Telkot and Tanchok.
Meet locals along the way, observe rural life, and enjoy constant views of the Kathmandu Valley below. The walk is moderate and ideal for all fitness levels.
Afternoon: Explore Changu Narayan Temple (1,550m)
Arrive at the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Nepal’s oldest Vishnu temple, dating back to the 5th century.
Admire its detailed woodcarvings, ancient stone sculptures, and serene atmosphere, which reflect Nepal’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
Drive Back to Kathmandu (Approx. 1 Hour)
After exploring the temple, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu, arriving by 2:00–3:00 PM.
You’ll be dropped off at your hotel with plenty of time to relax, shop, or enjoy a well-deserved lunch in Thamel.
The Nagarkot Sunrise Hike can be done year-round, but the best seasons are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). During these months, the skies are clear, temperatures are mild, and you’ll get the clearest sunrise views of the Himalayas.
Winter (December–February) brings crisp air and fewer tourists, ideal for photographers while the monsoon (June–August) offers lush green hills but frequent clouds. No matter the season, early morning always promises peaceful trails and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
The Nagarkot Sunrise hike is easy to moderate and suitable for travelers of all ages with normal fitness. The trail mostly descends gradually from Nagarkot (2,175m) to Changu Narayan Temple (1,550m), taking around 3-4 hours. There are a few gentle uphill and uneven sections, but no steep climbs or technical parts- making it perfect for beginners, families, and casual walkers.
Note: The hike is not wheelchair-accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with serious back, heart, or mobility issues, or for pregnant women. Children are welcome, but infants must sit on laps during the drive.
Since this is a one-day hike, you only need light essentials—focus on comfort and layering for changing temperatures.
Clothing and Gear
Personal Items
Tip: Dress in layers, mornings in Nagarkot are cool, but it warms up quickly during the hike.
The hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan Temple takes around 3 to 4 hours at a relaxed pace, making it suitable for travelers of all fitness levels.
Nagarkot is located about 32 kilometres (20 miles) east of Kathmandu, roughly a 1.5-hour drive depending on traffic.
The trip starts early, around 4:30-5:00 AM, from Kathmandu and ends by 3:00-4:00 PM, depending on traffic and hiking pace.
No, it’s an easy-to-moderate downhill hike through scenic countryside. Perfect for families, couples, and beginners.
Absolutely! Nagarkot is one of Nepal’s most beautiful hill stations, offering panoramic Himalayan views, peaceful surroundings, and easy access from Kathmandu – perfect for a short nature escape.
Nagarkot sits at an elevation of approximately 2,175 meters (7,136 feet) above sea level, offering ideal conditions for stunning sunrise views and a refreshing mountain climate.
Nagarkot is famous for its breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, where you can see peaks like Mount Everest, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna on clear days.
A one-day hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan is ideal. Still, many travelers choose to spend one night in Nagarkot to enjoy views of both sunrise and sunset.
The road to Nagarkot is paved and accessible year-round, though it is slightly winding as it climbs from Bhaktapur. Our private vehicles ensure a safe and comfortable ride.
Nagarkot is located in the Bhaktapur District of Bagmati Province, Nepal, about an hour’s drive east of Kathmandu.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Everest, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and even Annapurna in the far west.
Dress in layers – it’s cool before sunrise but warm later. Wear comfortable trekking shoes, a light jacket, and bring sunscreen and sunglasses.
The best time to visit is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for clear skies and excellent mountain visibility.
Nagarkot is about 30 kilometres from Dhulikhel – roughly 1.5 to 2 hours’ drive- and offers a scenic connection between two of Nepal’s most beautiful hill towns.
Kathmandu sits at a lower altitude (1,400m) compared to Nagarkot (2,175m), so temperatures are generally 5-7℃ warmer in the city than in the hills.
Yes, a professional guide ensures your safety, explains local culture, and makes the trip more meaningful.
It’s Nepal’s oldest temple (built in the 4th century) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for ancient wood and stone carvings and spiritual atmosphere.
Outfitter Himalaya provided great service from the first contact till the end of the tour. Arjun replied to my request promptly and picked us up at the hotel...
