Nagarkot
In Nepali: नगरकोट
Nagarkot sits at about 2,175 m on the eastern rim of the valley. On a clear morning the Himalaya lines the northern horizon — Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar and, faintly, Everest. A view tower stands at the highest point.
Hotels and lodges line the ridge. The walk down to Changu Narayan (about 3–4 hours) or to Dhulikhel through villages and pine forest makes a fine day.
What to see and do
Watch sunrise from the view tower or your hotel terrace, then walk the ridge through pine forest. Popular hikes include Nagarkot to Changu Narayan, to Dhulikhel via Telkot or Nala, and down to Sankhu. The astronomical observatory stands near the ridge top.
Good to know
Stay overnight for sunrise; the view is often hazy by mid-morning. From May to September clouds usually hide the mountains, but the monsoon views of cloud seas can be beautiful. Nights are cold in winter.
Quick answers
- Where is Nagarkot?
- Nagarkot is in Bhaktapur district, Bagmati Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Nagarkot?
- About 2,175 m (7,136 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Nagarkot?
- Nagarkot is in or right next to Kathmandu, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Kathmandu, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Nagarkot?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Kathmandu.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Nagarkot?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Nagarkot?
- October–March for clear mornings
- How do I get to Nagarkot?
- About 1.5 hours by road from Kathmandu via Bhaktapur. It is about 19 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Nagarkot called in Nepali?
- नगरकोट
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