Quick Facts:
- Location: Nagarkot
- Altitude: 2,175 m
- Length:2 164m/7 100ft
- Best time to visit: October to April
- Available Transport: Public bus, Taxi, Private vehicles
Nagarkot is a beautiful hill town located 32 km east of Kathmandu, Nepal, in Bhaktapur District in Bagmati Province. The town is known for its serene environment and spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. The Nagarkot area offers several outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and horse riding. The Nagarkot Eco Trail and Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail are the most popular hiking routes. The Mahakali shrine and Telkot are some of the shrines and places to visit in Nagarkot. The Nagarkot Buddhist Monastery, Nagarkot View Tower, Nagarkot Bat Cave, Buddha Peace Park, Nagarkot Waterfall, and Muhan Pokhari are some of the top places to roam around in Nagarkot. Nagarkot was once an ancient fort built to monitor the external activities of other kingdoms and later became a summer retreat for the royal family before becoming popular as an international hill station. Visitors can reach Nagarkot by private car or public transportation. Overall, Nagarkot is a mesmerizing destination that offers a natural charm that attracts many tourists.
History:
- Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher built a summer palace in Nagarkot called “Bhangeri Durbar” during his reign.
- The ancient trade route to Tibet from India passed through Nagarkot.
- Nagarkot means a city fort. It was a strategic point for the Kings of Kathmandu to monitor tax and immigration.
- Nagarkot has been a favorite summer resort for Kings and Maharajas.
- During the Coronation of the late King Birendra in 1975, the road to Nagarkot was metalled.
Main Attractions of Nagarkot
There are a number of great attractions in Nagarkot that you shouldn’t miss if you’re thinking about visiting. You can have amazing views of the Himalayas and the surrounding areas on the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail. The Nagarkot Nature Trail is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy the outdoors because it lets you explore the verdant forests and see the local fauna. Another well-liked option is the Nagarkot Buddha Peace Park Trekking Trail, which offers a tranquil and beautiful setting for trekking and meditation. The Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Hiking Path, which gives breathtaking views of the valley and mountains, is worth considering if you’re up for a more difficult hike. The Nagarkot Everest View Paragliding Experience is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to soar over the Himalayas for those wanting an adrenaline thrill.
Things you can do in Nagarkot
Hiking: Nagarkot is famous for day hikes, where you can connect with locals and nature. It is more enjoyable with clear weather and good company.
Cycling: You can cycle on natural trails, and visit the Mahakali shrine for a view of the Langtang mountain range. Cycling up to the shrine is also an option. The lush jungles are full of life, and you’ll be captivated by the scenery on your way to your destination.
Horse riding: Nagarkot is a great place for horse riding, and you can easily manage a horse through hoteliers.
How to get there?
- By Private Car or Taxi: You can hire a private car or taxi from Kathmandu to Nagarkot. The journey takes around 1.5 hours.
- By Public Bus: You can take
- Take a public bus to Kamalbinayak Bus Park in Bhaktapur from Ratna Bus Stand in Kathmandu. Buses leave every hour, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours.
- By Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike in Kathmandu and ride to Nagarkot. However, be aware that the roads can be steep and narrow in some places.
- By Hiking: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike to Nagarkot from nearby villages such as Changu Narayan or Sundarijal. The hike can take 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Entry Fees:
For foreigners:
Nagarkot Entrance – 350 Rupees.
For SAARC tourists: 250 Rupees.
Changu Narayan Temple Entrance – 350 Rupees for foreigners.
