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Bhatgaon, Nagarkot & Changunarayan Hike

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Duration

2 Days
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Trip Grade

Easy
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Group Size

1-16 People
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Max Altitude

2,165m. / 7,103ft.
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Best Season

Feb- May/ Sept- Nov
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Activity

Hiking
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Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Accommodation

Resort
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Transportation

Private Vehicle
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Trip Customization

On request (click here)
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2 Days
Price starts US$ 400

We offer group price for private travelers

Live Chat 24/7

Highlights of Bhatgaon, Nagarkot & Changunarayan Hike

  • Enjoy the Himalayan panorama of the mountains in the Langtang, Jugal, and Gauri Shankar ranges.
  • Relish the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
  • Visit numerous Newar and Tamang villages on the trail.
  • Explore Changunarayan temple and the sacred sites around the temple premise.

Trip Introduction

Bhatgaon Nagarkot Changunarayan Hike is a popular hiking adventure around the outskirts of the Kathmandu Valley. The hike offers an authentic display of the culture and lifestyle of the Newar and Buddhist communities. Also, the scenic beauty one can enjoy on the hike is surreal as well. The hike is an easy trip to enjoy a quick getaway from the capital. Likewise, even those with families and average physical shape can do the hike.

Firstly, the trip begins in Kathmandu with a drive across the hills to the northeast of the valley. Heading past Boudha, the drive takes you to Bhatgaon, which is a traditional Newar village. Here, you can enjoy the lifestyle and social norms of the Newar people before the hike. The hike takes off and ascends through the Tamang villages. Hiking across the forests and serene trails, you will gently ascend to Nagarkot. Nagarkot is one of the most famous viewpoints near Kathmandu. Here, you can enjoy the vista of the mountains in Langtang, Ganesh, and Jugal Himal ranges during the sunset.

After spending a night at Nagarkot, you get up in the morning and relish the panorama of the Himalayas. Then, you begin the downward hike to Changu Narayan. The hike resumes in a similar fashion and descends slightly. Enjoying the local lifestyle, you pass a few villages on the way. At the end of the hike, you reach Changu Narayan, which is one of the seven world heritage sites in the valley. Here, you can explore the temple premises and enjoy the view of the entire valley as well. Also, the temples and shrines reflect the religious and cultural heritage of the people in Kathmandu.

At Himalayan Adventure Treks, we are always ready to assist you on your trips. Also, we have many trips and services for your adventures. We also have a great team of guides and porters who have the skills and experience to help you.

Outline Itinerary of Bhatgaon, Nagarkot & Changunarayan Hike

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Bhatgoan and hike to Nagarkot.

Day 02: Hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan – A Journey Through History and Nature.

Detail itinerary of Bhatgaon, Nagarkot & Changunarayan Hike

01

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Bhatgoan and hike to Nagarkot.

Hiking from Sankhu to Nagarkot – A Scenic Journey Through Nature and Culture

This day’s adventure combines a cultural visit, an exhilarating hike, and a breathtaking sunset view from Nagarkot. The journey begins with a morning drive to Bhatgaon (Bhaktapur), followed by a 4-hour hike from Sankhu to Nagarkot, passing through charming villages, dense forests, and terraced farmlands. The day concludes with a mesmerizing sunset over the Himalayas, including a distant view of Mt. Everest.

Morning: Drive from Kathmandu to Bhatgaon (Bhaktapur) and Sankhu

  • Breakfast at Hotel: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, preparing for an exciting journey ahead.
  • Departure from Kathmandu: The drive from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur takes approximately 45 minutes, covering about 13 km (8 miles).
  • Bhaktapur Overview: Also known as Bhatgaon, Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the three medieval cities of the Kathmandu Valley, renowned for its well-preserved Newari culture, temples, and pottery squares.
  • Continuing to Sankhu: After a brief stop at Bhaktapur, the journey continues to Sankhu, a small but historically significant Newari town. The drive from Bhaktapur to Sankhu takes around 30 minutes, covering 12 km (7.5 miles).
  • Arrival at Sankhu: This ancient settlement was once a major trading hub and is home to old temples, shrines, and traditional Newari houses.

Hiking from Sankhu to Nagarkot (4 Hours)

  • Starting the Trek: The hike begins from Sankhu (1,350m / 4,429 ft) and follows an uphill trail through lush forests, terraced fields, and scattered villages.
  • Passing Through Villages: Along the way, you’ll see traditional Newari homes, farmers working in the fields, and local people engaged in daily activities.
  • Scenic Beauty: The route is filled with dense pine forests, rhododendron trees, and open meadows with panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley below.
  • Midway Rest: After around 2 hours of hiking, you can take a short break at a local teahouse, enjoying traditional Nepali tea while taking in the stunning scenery.
  • Final Ascent: The last stretch of the hike involves a moderate climb before reaching Nagarkot (2,175m / 7,136 ft) in the early afternoon.

Arrival in Nagarkot – An Afternoon of Relaxation and Views

  • Checking into a Resort: Upon reaching Nagarkot, check into your resort and relax after the hike.
  • Lunch at the Resort: Enjoy a delicious Nepali or continental meal at the resort while soaking in the fresh mountain air.

Evening: Sunset View from Nagarkot Tower

  • Short Walk to the View Tower: In the evening, take a 15-minute walk to the Nagarkot View Tower, the highest point in Nagarkot.
  • Breathtaking Himalayan Panorama: From here, you’ll witness a spectacular 360-degree view of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Gaurishankar Himal.
  • Golden Hour Experience: As the sun sets, the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and red, casting a golden glow over the snow-capped peaks.
  • Deep Valley Views: Look down upon the vast Kathmandu Valley and surrounding forests, adding to the serene and magical atmosphere.
  • Photography Opportunity: This is the perfect time to capture stunning sunset photos with the Himalayan backdrop.

Overnight Stay at a Nagarkot Resort

  • Dinner: Return to your resort for a warm and cozy dinner, featuring local delicacies such as Dal Bhat, momos, or Tibetan Thukpa.
  • Relaxation: Enjoy the peaceful environment, cool mountain breeze, and the starry night sky.
  • Good Night’s Rest: Overnight stay at a comfortable Nagarkot resort, preparing for another day of adventure.

Key Highlights of the Day

✅ Cultural Experience: Explore the historical towns of Bhaktapur and Sankhu, rich in Newari traditions.
✅ Scenic Hike: Enjoy a refreshing 4-hour trek through forests, villages, and terraced fields.
✅ Panoramic Himalayan Views: Witness a stunning sunset over Mt. Everest and other Himalayan peaks from Nagarkot.
✅ Local Lifestyle: Observe the traditional Newari and Tamang communities along the way.
✅ Peaceful Stay: Unwind at a serene hilltop resort, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This Sankhu to Nagarkot hike offers an unforgettable experience, blending nature, culture, and adventure in a single day! 🌄🚶‍♂️

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Activity: Drive & Hike, 5-6 hours

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Max. Altitude: 2,165m/7,103ft. Nagarkot

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Meal: Lunch & Dinner

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Accommodation: Resort

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Note:

If you have your own private group and want to make your trip private, we can run the custom trip all the day as per your requirements and group size.

Plan a Private Trip

Includes and Excludes

What are included with package?

  • One Night 3 hotel in Nagarkot with Dinner & Breakfast: Accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Nagarkot, including dinner and breakfast, is provided as part of the package.
  • All transportation by private vehicle: All transportation for the trip, including to and from Nagarkot, will be provided in a private vehicle for comfort and convenience.
  • Experience & helpful tour guide: A professional, experienced, and friendly tour guide will accompany you throughout the trip to ensure a pleasant experience.
  • Entrance fee: Entrance fees to any relevant attractions during the tour are included in the package.
  • Hiking permit: A hiking permit for your trip will be arranged and provided as part of the package.
  • All necessary paperwork: All necessary documentation, such as permits and legal paperwork, will be managed for you.
  • Drop and pickup for Hiking: The package includes transportation for drop-off and pickup at the hiking location.
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit): A first aid kit will be available throughout the trip for any minor health emergencies.
  • All government taxes: The package covers all government taxes and fees associated with the trip.

What are not included with package?

  • Travel and rescue insurance: Travel and rescue insurance is not included in the package, and it is recommended to purchase this separately to cover potential emergencies during the trip, such as medical issues or evacuation.
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, bottled water, etc.): Any personal expenses, such as phone calls, laundry services, alcoholic drinks, bottled or boiled water, and other personal purchases, are not covered by the package and will be at your own expense.

Pick Your Suitable Date

US$ 400

Book a Private Trip

Private & Group Discount Price

  • 1 - 1 person
    US$ 600
  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 400
  • 3 - 5 people
    US$ 350
  • 6 - 10 people
    US$ 300
  • 11 + people 9999
    US$ 250
1 Travelers x US $ 2000

Total Cost:

US$ 600

(No additional taxes or booking fees)

Trip Information

About Country

Popularly recognized worldwide for its majestic sky-dominating peaks, Nepal is one of the most sought-after nations for trekking and other adventure activities. This tiny Himalayan nation is home to eight of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest (8848m)- the highest mountain in the world. Moreover, the rugged and rural trekking trails to the massifs along the dense forest which is filled with exotic floras and faunas instills excitement and adventures to the travelers. However, traveling to Nepal is not only about the mountains and natural beauty. Unraveling the beauty that lies in the old monuments, palaces, and temples. Nepal has a diverse array of cultures, traditions, languages, and history which are reflected in the lifestyle of the people.

Key Facts 

Location: Nepal is located in South Asia; between two great giants the Republic of China to the north and India to the south, east, and west.

Geography:  A landlocked country, Nepal is divided into three geographical regions, namely, the Himalayas, the Hills, and the Terai.

Capital: The capital city of Nepal is Kathmandu.

Area: The total area of Nepal is 147,181sq km.

Population: The current population of Nepal is 29 million.

Political system: Nepal is a federal republic country with a multi-party system.

Major religion: Nepal is a secular state but the majority of people follow Hinduism, followed by Buddhism and Christianity.

Time zone: The time zone of Nepal is GMT +5:45.

Official Language: The official language of Nepal is Nepali.

Working hours: The working hours in Nepal are from 10 am to 5 pm.

Electricity: Currently, all the major cities have electricity while electricity supply in some rural areas is limited. The standard voltage of electricity in Nepal is 220V.

Visa Information

All tourists visiting Nepal except tourists from India should have a valid passport and visa. An On-Arrival visa to enter can be obtained at the Tribhuvan International Airport or any other land entry/exit points at the Nepal-Tibet and Nepal-India border. During the peak season, there will be a long line of tourists here trying to get their visas. So, to avoid the endless waiting you should visit the nearest Nepalese diplomatic missions stationed in your country before your arrival.

An On-Arrival Tourist Visa costs USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. Find more information regarding the updated visa fees at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/post/notice-regarding-visa-fee-updates.

You can also extend your visa within a valid period which will cost you USD 3 per day. However, if you are visiting Nepal from SAARC countries you don’t have to pay visa fees as gratis fee or free visa is applicable for 100 days. Regarding information about tourist visas, you can head to the information on the official website of the Department of Immigration at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa.

How to reach the country

Nepal is very well accessible via air, rail, and road. Tribhuvan International Airport is the only international airport and the entry point for those arriving by air. Nepal Airlines is the main operator in the nation. Other international airlines here are Air Arabia, Air Asia, Etihad airlines, Fly Dubai, Jet Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways, Silk Air, and Thai air. The rail and road service can only be used by those arriving from India.

In terms of land transport, there are several land entry/exit points at the Nepal-Tibet and Nepal-India borders. Kerung and Kodari are the entry/exit points at the Nepal-Tibet border whereas

Janakpur-Jainagar railway is the sole railway that connects Nepal with India, several buses connect Delhi and Kathmandu.

Popular destinations to visit

There are many places you can visit in Nepal. Nepal is not only gifted with natural beauty but it is also culturally rich which means there are many heritages and sites you can visit. Kathmandu Valley is the first and foremost destination that you should not miss out on. The seven UNESCO world heritage sites in the valley, namely, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Changunarayan.

Other places you must visit while in Nepal are Pokhara, Chitwan, and Lumbini. Pokhara is a scenic lake city, located 6 hours’ drive away from Kathmandu city. There you will be able to enjoy the serene and peaceful nature with the Annapurna ranges in the backdrop. Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a historic destination whereas the Chitwan National Park is a natural haven for exotic flora and fauna. Both of these are also enlisted as world heritage sites by UNESCO. Palpa, Bandipur, Bardia National Park, and Ilam are some of the popular destinations.

As for trekking and mountaineering activities, Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, Upper Mustang, and Dolpo regions are some of the most popular ones in Nepal.

Internet and Communication in the country

You do not have to worry about not getting communication service or Internet service in Nepal. In recent years, the internet and communication services have drastically progressed and developed. While in the major cities and tourist destinations, you can use free Wi-Fi including many of the cafes and restaurants. Similarly, almost every hotel and some public areas provide Wi-Fi services. However, Wi-Fi is not always available in remote areas in the Himalayas and rural Hilly regions.

In such situations, a cellular connection is the best option for both Internet access and communication. NTC and Ncell at two of the biggest telecommunication corporations and offer sim cards with various packages at a reasonable price. These service providers have a wide reach over many parts of Nepal. You will easily be able to purchase any sim card with your passport or identity card.

Local currency and foreign exchange

While in Nepal, you should use Nepali rupees (NRs) which is also the official currency of Nepal. You can easily exchange your currency into the Nepalese Rupee at the Tribhuvan International Airport or the exchange counters and banks around the major cities. Also, the major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and Lumbini have a great availability of banks and ATMs. However, their availability becomes quite scarce when you head to the Himalayas and remote areas.

So, it is best if the travelers perform all their money-related activities while they are in the major cities.

Weather and climate

The climate in Nepal varies according to altitude and the current season. The lowland of the Terai region in the southern part of the country is very hot and humid during the summer. The temperature there can get as high as 45 degrees Celsius. The middle part is also known as the hilly region has a pleasant and bearable climate all year long.

However, in winter the nights and early mornings can get quite chilly. The Himalayan region is the northernmost part of the country and is above 3300m. This region usually has alpine climatic conditions and during the winter season, it experiences adverse weather conditions.

Nepal generally has four seasons, namely, spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The spring here means every part of the country has flowers blooming and summer means a lot of humidity and rainfall. While the autumn is neither too hot nor too cold and the skies are always clear. The winter season brings snow in the Himalayan region and some parts of the hilly region as well. Finally, during the monsoon season, the entire country experiences heavy rainfall except in the rain shadow areas of Upper Dolpo and Mustang.

People, culture, and festivals

Nepalese are known to be one of the kindest people all over the world. With a smile on everyone’s face, you will be warmly welcomed and greeted. The word “Namaste” is used while they join their hands together which means a respectful greeting. Nepal is a culturally rich country with many different castes, languages, and traditions. The diverse culture and tradition result in many different festivals celebrated all around the nation.

The major festivals celebrated are Dashain, Tihar, Holi, Sonam Losar, Gyalpo Losar, and many more. Especially in Newari settlements, people celebrate many colorful and radiant festivals. You will be able to experience wonderful and lifelong memory if you visit Nepal during the time of festivals.

Equipment List for Bhatgaon, Nagarkot & Changunarayan Hike:

Bhatgaon, Nagarkot & Changunarayan Hike is just for 2 days short hike we need at least a few types of equipment for this hike.  we hope, this information will be helpful to you so success your trip.

Luggage/Duffle bag:

You will require a duffel bag or a backpack for trekking (25- 35L) max and all our trekking stuff is kept in this duffle bag and this will be carried by our porters. However, Himalayan Adventure also provides the duffle back if needed.

A day backpack:

You will need a day backpack and you will be carrying it every day by yourself and we recommend you it has to be at least 15L and you can carry important documents like Passport, credit card along with a need to carry a water bottle, snacks bar and clothing layers (hat, gloves, fleece, sunblock, poles, etc…).

Trekking/Hiking boots:

If you have trekking boots or sneakers also enough for this hike.

Fleece jacket: 

You need to have good quality fleece jacket at least 1 synthetic jacket or pullovers are a great alternative to fleece.

Socks:

You need to have at least 2 pairs of thick socks during the spring & autumn but winter and monsoon need at least 3 pairs of socks for the Everest short trek.

Lightweight/ warm insulated pants:

You need to have at least 1 pairs of lightweight trekking pants like Lightweight Pants.

Short-sleeved shirts:

You need to have 1 merino wool to keep you warm from the cold or synthetic shirts and if you are not allergic to wool products, merino wool is ideal for this trek.

Long-sleeved shirts: 

You need to have at least two shirts.

Waterproof jacket: 

You need at least one waterproof jacket for the rain/snow and wind and waterproof pants may be an option.

Head and face gear:

Sun Hat or cap during the daytime, Woolen Hat for morning & Evening, and Polarized sunglasses are compulsory.

Hand gear:

You need warm gloves.

Traveling supplies:

Adapter Plug for Charging the Camera and Mobile, Camera belt, Passport belt ( nice to have), Swiss army knife (option), Flashlight, Headlamp, Water bottle, Extra camera battery, Hand sanitizer, Alarm clock, Hiking poles (optional ), and Binoculars (optional).

Toiletries:

Most of the things available at Nagarkot hotel.

Medication:

First Aid Medical Kit box (can be purchased in Thamel Kathmandu), Altitude Medicines (Diamox), Tylenol, aspirin, ibuprofen, Anti-diarrheic, Powerful antibiotics, and Nasal Spray or Drops. (Option)

Essential Packing Gear for Bhatgaon, Nagarkot & Changunarayan Hike

If you have decided to go on a day Hike trip in Nepal, we assure you that you will have a fantastic time ahead. But what should you pack? What will be the right gear to make your trip more fabulous? To help you with this, we have compiled a packing list of essential items that you mustn’t forget to bring along.

  • Cash

  • A 30 L Daypack that has room for your essentials, such as camera, clothing, water bottle, jacket, raincoat, etc, which will be carried by you
  • Protective transport cover for a backpack or travel bag

  • Hiking Boots: Preferably ankle-high boots to prevent ankle sprain
  • Quick-drying shirts made of synthetic fabrics
  • Warm and cool vests or T-shirts
  • Sports Bra for Female Trekker
  • Hiking shorts

  • Sun hat, and sunglasses with 100% UV protection (for hiking trips, even with stray light and nose protection)
  • Sunscreen lipstick with a high SPF (at least 20, for a hike trip, or at least 30, or sunblock)
  • Drinking bottled water

  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer

  • Camera with sufficient memory cards and spare batteries, or a battery charger
  • Toilet paper
  • Map
  • Binoculars
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Equipment Note:

  • Plus, we will also gift you a company logo T-shirt as a token of your Hiking experience in Nepal with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

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2 Days
Price starts US$ 400

We offer group price for private travelers

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