Nagarkot is a village located approximately 32 km east of Kathmandu, Nepal. It's widely known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest and other snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan range of eastern Nepal. It's a popular tourist destination for its panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
You can reach Nagarkot by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from Kathmandu. The journey usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, some travelers opt to hike to Nagarkot from places like Bhaktapur or Changu Narayan for a more adventurous route.
The best time to visit Nagarkot is from October to April when the skies are generally clear and you have the best chance of seeing the Himalayan mountain range. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magnificent times for views.
Nagarkot offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses to luxury resorts. Many of these places are designed to provide the best views of the Himalayas right from your room.
Yes, there are multiple hiking trails around Nagarkot that cater to different fitness levels. Popular hikes include the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail, the hike to Changu Narayan Temple, and the Nagarkot to Dhulikhel walk.
While a guide is not strictly necessary to explore Nagarkot, hiring one can enhance your experience as they can provide valuable insights into the local culture, flora, fauna, and ensure you find the best views. For hiking trails, a guide can help with navigation and safety.
Besides the panoramic views and hiking, visitors can engage in activities like paragliding, mountain biking, or simply relaxing in a peaceful environment. Many hotels also offer yoga and meditation sessions that capitalize on Nagarkot's serene surroundings.
Visitors should bring layers of clothing as temperatures can fluctuate, especially at dawn. Hiking boots, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and binoculars for viewing distant mountains are also recommended. Don't forget to bring a bottle of water and some snacks for hikes.
Yes, on a clear day, it is possible to see Mount Everest from Nagarkot, along with other majestic peaks of the Himalayan range. However, the view of Everest is not as close as from places like Everest Base Camp but still offers a distant, yet remarkable, profile of the world's highest peak.
There might be a small entrance fee to enter certain areas around Nagarkot, which is used for the maintenance and conservation of the region. It's best to check current details with your accommodation or local tour guides as policies can change.