Kathmandu To Nagarkot

Kathmandu to Nagarkot is a popular trip among local and foreign visitors. Kathmandu is a vibrant capital city of Nepal, with hundreds of cultural sites and bustling streets. Nagarkot is a beautiful hill station in the Changunarayan area. It lies in the Bhaktapur district and is such a popular destination that almost every tourist visiting Nepal visits.   

Once you reach Kathmandu, there are various transportation options for Nagarkot. Easy access from Kathmandu is also one of the reasons for Nagarkot’s popularity. You can also combine Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot if you are in a little rush. However, it is best to take your time to learn all the traditional aspects. Taking all that in on a single day can get a little overwhelming.

Book transportation according to your budget and convenience to make the best of your tour to Nagarkot.

Route from Kathmandu To Nagarkot

Getting to Nagarkot from Kathmandu is pretty easy. Nagarkot Journey is a short ride northeast of Kathmandu. It covers a maximum of 32 km, depending on where you are staying. Furthermore, there are several transportation options. They make your travel from Kathmandu to Nagarkot easy. 

There are two main routes that will take you to Nagarkot from Kathmandu. They are mentioned here:

Route 1:

The most common route is Via Bhaktapur. Taking this route, you will travel through Araniko Highway. If you are taking a private ride, you can also stop at Kamalbinayak Pokhari in Bhaktapur for a peaceful moment. Then, you can continue on this road while passing through  Bhaktapur.

Route 2: 

The second route is via Sankhu. You will start your journey by heading towards Bouddha and then continue your journey through Sankhu. This route is best if you are staying around Kathmandu Durbar Square or Patan.

Getting Nagarkot From Kathmandu

By Local Bus

The local Nagarkot bus is one of the most popular transportation options from Kathmandu to reach Nagarkot. It is also very convenient if you are staying around the Bhaktapur area.  You can easily catch the first bus from Bhaktapur Bus Park.  However, if you stay in the heart of Kathmandu, you must change buses.  First, you must take a bus from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur and then another from Bhaktapur to Nagarkot. The local bus takes 3-4 hours and costs NPR 120-150. This is one of the cheapest ways to reach this beautiful place.

By Taxi 

If you are looking for the fastest way to reach Nagarkot, take a taxi from Kathmandu. Taxi is the easiest and most comfortable way to travel. Taking a taxi from Kathmandu to Nagarkot is pretty easy. You can hail a taxi and negotiate the price with the driver. It will cost you around NPR 3500 and 1.5 to 2 hours to get there. If you plan a day tour, you can book the same taxi for a day and return to Kathmandu. Otherwise, you can stay in one of the hotels in Nagarkot. 

Rental Car

Rental car allows flexibility and comfort. However, you must have an international driving license for driving there yourself.  You can also rent a car with a driver if you don’t want to drive yourself. With a rental car, you can take your time and enjoy the beautiful places on the way. But remember that this option can cost you around NPR 4500. A rental car allows you to drive to Nagarkot at your own pace. If you are booking this, you can get 4 most comfortable seats. It is perfect for small-group travelers.

Read more about Vehicle Rental In Nepal

Coaster 21-seater bus

A coaster is an ideal option if you are traveling in a group. It has a total of 21 seats, along with 4 baby seats. You can book a coaster through travel agencies. It is an economical and comfortable option to go to Nagarkot. It will cost you NPR 12000 to hire a two-way trip to Nagarkot in Coaster.

Above are the transportation options you can choose from to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu. There are other options like Bike, Hiace, and Jeep. But remember that tourist buses are not available for the Kathmandu to Nagarkot journey in recent years.

Cost For Booking Transportation For Nagarkot From Kathmandu [ In NPR]

• Local Bus: 120 to 150
• Taxi: 3500
• Car: 4500
• Jeep: 6500
• Hiace: 8000
• Coaster: 12000

Top attractions in Nagarkot

Nagarkot is a beautiful short-tour destination near Kathmandu. It is famous for its stunning sunrise views over the Himalayas. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The Nagarkot View Tower offers the best vistas. The Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail is the best for someone who loves adventures. You can visit the Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fresh mountain air and lush landscapes make Nagarkot a must-visit destination for travelers.

Nagarkot View Tower

Nagarkot View Tower is the best spot in Nagarkot. It is also known as the Observation Deck of the Himalayas. It lies 2100+ meters above sea level and offers the best panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. On clear days, you can even see Mount Everest from here.

Mornings and Evenings are the best part here. In the morning, you can witness an endless sea of clouds and the warm glow of sunrise. Also, the sunrise over the mountains is breathtaking.  Sunsets are equally amazing, casting a glow over hills and villages. You can bring your camera to capture these magical moments. 

Surya Binayak Temple Bhaktapur

Surya Binayak Temple in Bhaktapur is a popular site among Hindu followers. It is one of the most important Hindu temples in the area. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, it attracts many worshippers.

The temple is on a small hill. The walk-up is pleasant, surrounded by green trees. The temple offers a great view of Bhaktapur and the Kathmandu Valley. Many people visit early in the morning. They come to pray and enjoy the fresh air. The temple is busy during festivals. Surya Binayak Temple is a wonderful place to experience local culture and traditions.

Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan Temple is a treasure near Nagarkot. It is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 4th century.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its intricate wood and stone carvings are stunning. Each carving tells a story from ancient Hindu mythology. The temple’s architecture reflects the rich Newari craftsmanship. Walking around, you can get a deep spiritual sense. You can also explore the small museum nearby which has some of the most ancient artifacts and sculptures. 

Nagarkot Nature Trail 

The Nagarkot Nature Trail is a beautiful experience for nature lovers. You will get to enjoy the lush greenery and serene environment of Nagarkot. It is an easy hike.

You will pass through forests, terraced fields, and small villages along the way. Bird watchers will spot many local and migratory birds along the way. You don’t need to be a seasonal hiker. Hikers with a basic fitness level can easily complete this trail. It is well-marked and easy to follow. It takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. Along the way, you can spot springs and streams. You can stop along the way to enjoy great views of the Himalayan ranges and the Kathmandu Valley.

Everest View Paragliding

Everest View Paragliding in Nagarkot is an unforgettable adventure. It offers a unique way to see the majestic Himalayas. Imagine soaring through the sky with the world’s highest peaks in view. It is a chance to connect with nature and see the Himalayas from a new perspective. Also, you don’t need prior experience. The instructors guide you through every step. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

The Paragliding starts with a short briefing.  First, professional instructors ensure you are safe and comfortable. Then, you take off from a hillside, feeling the rush of wind and excitement. The panoramic views of Mount Everest and other peaks will greet you. The best time for Everest View Paragliding is in the morning. The flight lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, but the memories last a lifetime.

The best time to visit Nagarkot

The best time to visit Nagarkot is from October to December and March to May. Nagarkot is beautiful all year round. However, these seasons offer pleasant climates and clear views of the colorful hills. The skies are usually clear, making it perfect for seeing Mount Everest and other Himalayas. Furthermore,  road conditions are pretty good too.

Let’s dive deep into the details of these months:

 October to December

• Weather: Mostly Cool and pleasant. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C.
• Visibility: Excellent. The monsoon rains have cleared the air, providing stunning mountain views.
• Activities: Ideal for hiking to Nagarkot and enjoying the sunrise and sunset views. Perfect for capturing pictures.
• Crowds:  It’s a popular time, but not overly crowded.

 March to May

• Weather: Mild and mostly comfortable. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C.
• Visibility: Good. The skies are clear, though there may be some haze in late April and May.
• Nature: Flowers bloom, making the landscape vibrant. Rhododendrons and other flowers add color to the trails.
• Activities: Great for trekking, paragliding, and exploring local villages around Nagarkot.

Monsoon Season (June to September): Nagarkot experiences heavy rainfall. The road can be muddy and slippery. Clouds often obscure views of the mountains. However, it’s lush and green, which some might find beautiful.

Winter (January to February): It gets quite cold, especially at night, with temperatures dropping to 0°C or lower. The views can be spectacular when it’s not cloudy. It is a popular season for local tourists to visit Nagarkot. Most of the people living in Kathmandu visit Nagarkot during winter.

Whether you’re there for hiking, cultural experiences, or to relax, choosing the right season helps you enhance your overall experience.

Conclusion

The journey from Kathmandu to Nagarkot is the most delightful experience. The scenic drive takes you through charming landscapes and picturesque villages. The air becomes cooler and fresher as you ascend. Upon reaching Nagarkot, the breathtaking views of the Himalayas reward your effort. If you have enough time, you can explore nearby villages and learn about the local lifestyle. This destination is a perfect short tour in Nepal. Returning to Kathmandu, you will carry unforgettable memories of this beautiful adventure.

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