Venturing beyond Kathmandu’s bustling streets, this day trip offers an enriching experience. Travelers can enjoy the scenic views of Nagarkot’s sunrise before embarking on a guided hike to the ancient Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a delicious lunch box and convenient transportation, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure in Nepal’s stunning landscapes. For those seeking a well-rounded culture, this tour may prove to be a compelling choice.
Key Points
- 8-hour hiking excursion from Kathmandu to Nagarkot and Changunarayan Temple, including electric car travel, guided tour, and 4-hour hike.
- Discounted cost of $4 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes pickup, English-speaking guide, and entry fee to Changunarayan Temple.
- Offers scenic views, sunrise opportunity, and a lunch box with bottled water, snacks, and juice.
- Requires reasonable fitness and preparation for the 4-hour hike to Changunarayan Temple.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a hiking excursion from Kathmandu to Nagarkot and Changunarayan Temple. It lasts 8 hours and costs $8, discounted to $4 per person.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup from your Kathmandu hotel or residence is included. An English-speaking guide accompanies the private group.
The itinerary involves traveling by electric car to Nagarkot for a guided tour and sunrise viewing, followed by a 4-hour hike to Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour includes lunch and entry fees, making it a convenient and value-packed experience.
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Itinerary Details
After pickup from your hotel or residence in Kathmandu, the tour begins with a 1.5-hour electric car journey to Nagarkot, a picturesque village perched on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley.
In Nagarkot, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and take in the scenic views, including a chance to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas.
Following this, you’ll embark on a 4-hour hike to the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The 4-hour hike to the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a captivating cultural experience.
The tour concludes with a 1-hour electric car ride back to Kathmandu, providing a well-rounded experience of Nepal’s natural and cultural highlights.
Included Amenities
Your tour includes several amenities to enhance your experience. You’ll receive hotel pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu, plus air-conditioned transportation. A lunch box with bottled water, muffin, donut, banana, seasonal fruit, and juice is provided. If you select the hiking option, a knowledgeable guide will accompany you. The entry fee to Changunarayan Temple is also included.
| Amenity | Included |
| — | — |
| Hotel Pickup/Drop-off | ✓ |
| Air-conditioned Transportation | ✓ |
| Lunch Box | ✓ |
| Hiking Guide | ✓ |
| Changunarayan Temple Entry | ✓ |
Important Information
Reasonable fitness is required for this tour, as it isn’t suitable for those with low fitness levels.
Participants should bring a camera, hiking shoes, a jacket, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing. Having a charged smartphone is also recommended.
The tour is weather-dependent, especially for sunrise views, so it’s important to check forecasts and be flexible with dates. Visitors should also be prepared for the 4-hour hike to Changunarayan Temple.
More Great Tours NearbyNagarkot: Witness the Sunrise
The tour starts with a 1.5-hour electric car ride from Kathmandu to Nagarkot, a scenic vantage point in the Himalayan foothills.
Perched at an elevation of 2,195 meters, Nagarkot offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including the iconic Mount Everest.
Travelers gather at the viewpoint, eagerly awaiting the awe-inspiring sunrise. As the first rays of light gradually illuminate the peaks, the group takes in the panoramic landscape, snapping photos to capture the magical moment.
The guide provides insights into the cultural and geographical significance of the region, enhancing the overall experience.
Love being outdoors? Check out these other hiking spots we've covered in Kathmandu
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- Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise & Changunarayan Hike With Lunch
- Kathmandu: 4 Hour Short Nagarjun Jamacho Gumba Hiking
- From Kathmandu: Bethanchowk Hiking Trip With Sunset View
- Kathmandu: Fresh Air Hiking at Kapan-Jagdol-Nagi Gumba
- Kathmandu: Shivapuri National Park Top Day Hike With Lunch
Changunarayan Temple: Discover the UNESCO Heritage Site
After the tranquil sunrise experience in Nagarkot, the group embarks on a scenic 4-hour hike to the renowned Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Hindu temple, dating back to the 4th century, showcases exquisite stone carvings and architectural wonders. Along the way, the guide shares insights into the temple’s rich history and cultural significance.
| Highlights | Description |
| — | — |
| Architectural Gems | Intricate stone carvings and sculptures adorn the temple’s exterior |
| Historical Significance | One of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley |
| Spiritual Significance | An important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists |
After the enriching visit, the group returns to Kathmandu, having experienced the beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.
Customer Feedback
Customers have overwhelmingly praised this Kathmandu hiking tour, with an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating based on 32 reviews.
The knowledgeable and kind guide received a 4.9/5 rating, with travelers appreciating their cultural and historical insights.
Customers also highlighted the beautiful scenery and enjoyed the guided tour experience.
The tour’s value for money received a solid 4.4/5 rating, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an enriching day trip from Kathmandu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drink on the tour. However, a complimentary lunch box is provided, which includes bottled water, snacks, and a juice. The tour company recommends taking advantage of the included amenities.
Are Private Tours Available for Larger Groups?
Yes, private group options are available. The tour offers a private group option for larger parties wishing to explore Nagarkot and Changunarayan Temple together with a guide. Private groups can be arranged for an additional cost.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Nagarkot?
The best time to visit Nagarkot is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons when the weather is mild and the views of the Himalayas are clearest. Crowds are smaller, and temperatures are comfortable for hiking.
Can I Extend the Tour to Include Other Activities?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional activities. Travelers can opt for a longer duration or add stops at other nearby attractions such as Dhulikhel, Bhaktapur, or a monastery visit. Customized itineraries are available upon request.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
Yes, there’s a 50% discount for children under 12 and seniors over 60. The tour operator offers these discounted rates to make the experience more accessible for families and older travelers.
The Sum Up
The "Nagarkot & Changunarayan Temple Hiking With Lunch" tour offers an enriching day trip from Kathmandu. Priced at only $4 per person, it includes a scenic electric car ride, breathtaking sunrise views, a 4-hour hike to a UNESCO-listed temple, a delicious lunch, and hotel transfers – ensuring a memorable and hassle-free adventure in Nepal’s stunning landscapes.
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