Changunarayan Day Hike offers an enriching hiking experience that combines cultural exploration with stunning natural beauty. This trek begins at the Changunarayan Temple, which dates back to the 7th century, and leads to Nagarkot, a popular vantage point renowned for its sunrise and mountain views. During the hike from Changunarayan to Nagarkot, you’ll encounter traditional ethnic villages untouched by the bustling capital city. The trek offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas and traverses through deciduous forests along the ridge.
If the weather is clear, you might even glimpse the mighty Mt. Everest. Nagarkot, situated 2000 feet above sea level, is a favored hill station near Kathmandu Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range. The Changunarayan Temple also serves as an administrative center for Mandev Malla. The day trip starts from Kathmandu, takes you through Changunarayan, and includes a visit to Bhaktapur before heading to Nagarkot. Aarohi Holiday is delighted to take you on this memorable Changunarayan Day Hike, ensuring a day filled with joy and discovery.
Route to Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike
Changunarayan Temple – The Oldest Hindu Temple in the Kathmandu Valley
Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Kathmandu, followed by a drive to Changunarayan. Here you’ll explore the Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in the valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful stone and wood carvings. After the visit, the hike begins through traditional villages and terraced fields, offering a chance to experience local culture and rural life.
The trail continues along a scenic ridge through forests with wide views of the Himalayas. As you make your way to Nagarkot, the landscape opens to sweeping mountain panoramas, and on clear days you may even catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest. The hike ends at Nagarkot, a hill station at 2,000 meters, famous for its sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayan range. On the return, the trip also includes a stop in Bhaktapur to explore its rich history and architecture before heading back to Kathmandu.
Why Choose Us for Your Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike
The Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike offers a unique blend of cultural discovery and scenic views. With many options for day hikes, we stand out as your trusted partner for a safe, enriching, and memorable experience.
We are a trusted, government-registered local company with over 10 years of experience organizing treks and hikes across Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.
Our licensed guides are experts in the Kathmandu Valley region, ensuring a safe, informative, and enjoyable hike.
Scenic and Enjoyable Trails: The hike is carefully planned to include the Changunarayan Temple, lush forests, and panoramic views of Nagarkot.
Personalized Experience: We adjust the hike to your pace and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey.
Enjoy hassle-free booking with secure payments and transparent pricing, ensuring no hidden fees.
Hassle-Free Adventure: We handle all logistics, including hotel pickup and transportation, so you can focus on enjoying the trail.
Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike Alternative
Looking for other ways to enjoy the Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike? You can try the Nagarkot Sunrise Tour for beautiful morning views or Kathmandu Valley Hiking to explore villages, forests, and cultural landmarks at a relaxed pace.
Day to Day Itinerary
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Our guide will pick you up from your place, and the tour will start with a drive from Kathmandu to Changunarayan. From there, we will hike from Changunarayan to Nagarkot. After the hike, we will pick you up from Nagarkot and return to Kathmandu, with a visit to Bhaktapur along the way
Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.
Sightseeing tour car A/C, driver, and hiking guide.
All taxes and company service charges.
Cost Excludes
Food, bar and beverage bills, tea, coffee.
Entrance fees for conservation area.
Tipping for guide and driver.
Departure Dates
Useful Info
Entry Fees for Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike
All required entry fees for this hike are included in your package. You won’t need to make any separate payments during the trip.
Changunarayan Temple: NPR 200 per person (foreigners) / NPR 100 per person (SAARC nationals)
Nagarkot Viewpoint: included in the package
Donations for local monasteries or temples are separate
Best Time for Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike
The Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer clear skies and stunning Himalayan views, while winter provides cool and comfortable weather for walking. During the summer months, the trails are lush and green, creating a refreshing experience. No matter when you visit, this hike combines nature, culture, and scenic beauty close to Kathmandu.
Important Notes for Changunarayan Nagarkot Day Hike
The hike is available year-round.
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for forest trails and uneven paths.
Carry a reusable water bottle and light snacks.
Bring some local currency for personal expenses.
A lightweight raincoat is recommended during the rainy season.
Equipment List
Kathmandu Valley Hiking Packing Lists
Comfortable walking shoes for forest trails and uneven paths
Lightweight clothing for daytime and a light jacket for cooler mornings or evenings
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
Lightweight raincoat during the rainy season
Small backpack to carry water, snacks, and personal items
Camera or smartphone for capturing views and memories
Reusable water bottle
Personal medications and Travel documents, ID, and local currency
