Nagarkot Sunrise and Bhaktapur Tour
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Duration 1 day
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Trekking Days 1 day
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Group Size 1 - 12 persons
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Difficulty Moderate to Challenging (High-Altitude Trek)
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Best Season March–May & September – November
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Start/End Point Kathmandu / Kathmandu
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Accommodation Hotel | Tea House trekking
About the Nagarkot Sunrise and Bhaktapur Tour
Nagarkot Sunrise and Bhaktapur Tour is the most preferred short private tour a little bit away from the bustling Kathmandu city. It involves visiting the popular and scenic hilltop town of Nagarkot for mesmerizing sunrise views. Besides, the attractive town is also a favorite spot to view a chain of Himalayan snow-capped mountains. The prominent peaks visible are Mt. Kanchenjunga in the east and Mt. Dhaulagiri in the west. After the sunrise view, it is time to drive back to Bhaktapur for an enchanting sightseeing tour in the ancient city.
Nagarkot Sunrise and Bhaktapur Tour begins with a very early morning drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot. It is about one and a half-hour drive to this hilltop town situated at 2195m. Then, it is a precious moment to watch the shimmering first rays of the sun over the mountain peaks. The tour continues with a drive to Bhaktapur and then visiting the several top attractions of the town. The major cultural highlights of this medieval city are the Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, National Arts Gallery, the Palace of 55 Windows, Potter’s Square, and several other landmarks.
Roughly 10-hour Nagarkot Sunrise and Bhaktapur Tour showcases the traditional countryside lifestyle of local people. It is a surprising thing to observe the unchanged daily life of people although they live very close to the country’s capital. Standard of living of people within a distance of just 32 km away from the country’s most rapidly influenced city has not been affected by modernity. A popular tour concludes after the sightseeing in Bhaktapur is over and the visitors are driven back to Kathmandu. Overall, it surely is a wonderful experience, especially for first-time visitors to Nepal.
Trip Highlights
- Witnessing the impressive sunrise views from Nagarkot
- Enjoy the fabulous aerial views from the viewpoint in Nagarkot
- Best views of Everest seen on a clear day with binoculars
- Impressive views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Dhaulagiri peaks
- Stunning sunrise views over mountain panorama extending from Manaslu-Ganesh Himal-Langtang-Jugal Himal towards the east at Mt. Everest range
- Cultural and religious explorations in Bhaktapur
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Durbar Square at Bhaktapur
- Take delight in the architectural finesse of Nyatapola Temple, Dattatreya Temple, and several other significant attractions
Nagarkot Sunrise and Bhaktapur Durbar Square sightseeing
Nagarkot Sunrise Tour
Nagarkot is a tiny picturesque town situated at the rim of the Kathmandu Valley on an impressive hilltop. It lies 32km away from the capital city and is known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views. It is also a well-known spot to witness the beautiful Himalayan peaks on a clear morning. Nagarkot is believed to be a rich home for different species of butterflies. The hill town even offers a panoramic view of the entire Kathmandu Valley. The scenic beauty of this tourist destination makes it a popular hiking route for foreigners as well as locals. In addition, it is also a popular weekend spotlight for night-stays for Kathmanduites. There are plenty of hiking opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in and around Nagarkot. To the west of this small hillock, lies the ancient pagoda-style Changunarayan Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Vishnu.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the royal palace of the old Bhaktapur kingdom is located in the current city of Bhaktapur, also known by the name of Khwopa or Bhadgaon. It lies 13 km east of Kathmandu. The four distinct squares namely, Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square is informally known as the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The impressive square is a potpourri of the pagoda and shikhara-style temples grouped around the palace of 55 windows built of brick and wood. The historical place includes the heritage from the 15th century flaunting the masterwork of metal, wood, and stone arts and architecture. The major attraction of this place is Nge Nyapa Jhya Laaykoo – the palace of 55 windows. Other landmarks include the Vatsala Temple, the Statue of Bhupatindra Malla, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, Lun Dhwaka – the Golden Gate, Lion’s Gate, and Mini Pashupati Temple. Durbar Square is, indeed, one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the Valley.


