If you don’t have time to go very far from Kathmandu, Nagarkot can (depending on the season) provide you with breathtaking views of the mountains and it’s famous for its sunrise views over the mountains. You can even see the very tip of Everest, way over there on the right.
Nagarkot, situated 32 km east of Kathmandu at an elevation of 2,185ms, is the site of an ancient fort built to monitor the external activities of the Kingdoms. Today you don’t need to watch for invading troops while you’re there, but you can taking in eight (out of 13) of the Himalayan ranges as listed below:
- Annapurna
- Manaslu
- Ganesh Himal
- Langtang
- Jugal
- Rolwaling
- Mahalangur (Everest)
- Numbur
How to reach Nagarkot from Thamel
Hike: Take a taxi or car to Changunarayan Temple and after visiting the temple walk around 3.5 hours to Nagarkot. Or start your hike at Chisapani.
Taxi: It will cost you around $20 to $25 one way to Nagarkot.
Private car: It will cost around $35 to $40 for the return trip. More if you wish to hold the car overnight or if you wish it to return for you the next day. Your hotel or any travel agent can arrange this for you.
Public bus: Go to the Old Bus Park, take the bus to Bhaktapur and at Bhaktapur change bus for one going to Nagarkot. This is will be long journey time-wise but make it a fun experience by talking with locals and chilling.
Hotel car: If you are staying overnight in one of the larger hotels in Nagarkot, the hotel will arrange your transport.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Nagarkot
There are plenty of small and inexpensive hotels as well as some old time originals! Some of the larger hotels include, Club Himalaya, Hotel Country Villa and the Fort Resort. For something a bit more off the beaten trail and homely try The Farmhouse, set in a valley at the end of the road, past the Hotel Country Villa.
