Duration
6-7 hours
Private Tour to Nagarkot Sunrise Bhaktapur Durbar Square


Trip Grade
Easy
Group Size
1-16 People
Max Altitude
2,175m. / 7,136ft.
Best Season
Feb- May/ Sept- Nov
Activity
Day Tour
Transportation
Private Vehicle
Trip Customization
On request (click here)Highlights of Private Tour to Nagarkot Sunrise Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Enjoy the sublime sunrise from Nagarkot.
- Relish the views of Langtang, Ganesh, and Jugal ranges.
- Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square and explore the Newar cultural heritage.
Trip Introduction
Private Tour to Nagarkot Sunrise Bhaktapur Durbar Square trip is a sightseeing tour to Nagarkot to view the beautiful sunrise. Nagarkot is the most famous viewpoint near Kathmandu valley, from where you get views of many mountain ranges. You also get to explore Bhaktapur city and observe the Newari culture, tradition, and lifestyle. In addition, you can also witness the ancient architecture in the temples in Bhaktapur city.
Early morning, at around 4:30 am, you’ll drive to Nagarkot to view the sunrise. You drive for around an hour and reach the viewpoint. The drive is also a scenic one as you follow the bends through lush hills and forests. Here, you can rejoice in the beauty of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Everest ranges decorated in the first rays of sunlight. Then, you can explore Nagarkot and prepare to return.
Further, you drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which is one of the 7 world heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley. Here, you can visit the 55-window palace, Nyatapola, and pottery square. In addition, you can also go to Siddha Pokhari and other lakes in Bhaktapur. All of these heritages are the symbol of the art, craft, and culture of ancient Bhaktapur.
Most of the time in the year is suitable for this tour, except during the monsoon (June to August). The rain can worsen the condition of the hiking trail, so it is best to avoid this season. People of any age group can take part in this tour as the trails are easy and well-made.
We, at Himalayan Adventure Treks, provide you with all the services, including transport and dining for the day’s tour. We also provide you with experienced guides. You can choose other trip packages in addition to this tour.
Outline Itinerary of Private Tour to Nagarkot Sunrise Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Day 01: Private Nagarkot Sunrise & Bhaktapur Heritage Tour.
Our guests sharing their experiences (Photo/Video Gallery)
Detail itinerary of Private Tour to Nagarkot Sunrise Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Day 01: Private Nagarkot Sunrise & Bhaktapur Heritage Tour.
Early Morning Pickup & Drive to Nagarkot
Your day begins early at 4:30 AM, when your driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby in Kathmandu. You will embark on an interesting drive towards Nagarkot, a beautiful hill station situated to the northeast of Kathmandu.
As you leave the city behind, the road winds past the historic Bhaktapur city outskirts, offering glimpses of traditional Newari villages, terraced farmlands, and forested hills. The drive gradually climbs uphill, passing serene rural settlements, where you can see early risers beginning their daily activities.
The journey to Nagarkot takes approximately 1.5 hours, allowing you to reach the hilltop just in time for the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayan range.
Sunrise & Himalayan Panorama from Nagarkot (2,100m)
Upon reaching Nagarkot (2,100m / 6,889 ft), you will head to the Nagarkot View Tower, one of the best vantage points in the region. Here, you will witness the first golden rays of sunlight illuminating the majestic Himalayan peaks.
On a clear morning, the panoramic view extends from Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) and Ganesh Himal (7,422m) in the west, across the Langtang (7,234m) and Jugal Himal ranges, all the way to the Everest region in the east, where you can spot the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest (8,848m) on the horizon. The sight of the snow-capped mountains turning golden with the sunrise is truly mesmerizing.
Nagarkot is a popular weekend getaway for Kathmandu residents, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. You will have time to soak in the breathtaking views, capture photographs, and enjoy the crisp mountain air before heading back down.
Drive Down to Bhaktapur Durbar Square
After an unforgettable sunrise experience, you will drive downhill towards Bhaktapur Durbar Square, an ancient medieval city that retains its rich heritage and cultural essence. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes, passing through traditional villages, rice fields, and local markets, giving you a glimpse of Nepal’s countryside lifestyle.
Upon arriving in Bhaktapur, you will step back in time as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has preserved its medieval architecture, traditions, and culture. Unlike other cities in Nepal, Bhaktapur has remained largely untouched by Western influences, making it a living museum of Newari art and craftsmanship.
Exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur, also known as “Bhadgaon”, was once the capital of the Malla Kingdom and is famous for its exquisite temples, palaces, and courtyards. Some of the key attractions you will visit include:
✅ Nyatapola Temple: The tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal, standing five stories high, dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi. Each level is guarded by stone figures of deities and mythical creatures, showcasing the superior craftsmanship of the Malla period.
✅ Fifty-Five Window Palace: The former royal palace of the Malla kings, famous for its intricately carved wooden windows and doors. The palace was once the seat of the Bhaktapur royal family and is a stunning example of Newari architecture.
✅ Golden Gate: Considered the most beautiful gilded gate in Nepal, this entrance to the royal palace is adorned with delicate carvings of Hindu deities and mythological figures, reflecting the artistic brilliance of the medieval period.
✅ Lion Gate: Flanked by two large stone lions, this historic entrance symbolizes the strength and grandeur of the Malla kingdom.
✅ Art Gallery: A must-visit for art lovers, the gallery houses an impressive collection of ancient paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from Nepal’s rich history.
✅ Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla: A finely crafted bronze statue of the legendary Malla King, who was a great patron of art and architecture. He is depicted in a prayerful pose, overlooking Durbar Square.
While exploring Bhaktapur, you will notice traditional potters spinning clay on wooden wheels, women in Newari attire preparing local delicacies, and the sound of temple bells and devotional chants filling the air.
Breakfast or Lunch at a Rooftop Restaurant
After the heritage tour, you can relax and enjoy breakfast or an early lunch at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Many cafés offer a spectacular view of the ancient courtyards, temples, and palaces, allowing you to soak in the historical ambiance while savoring delicious Newari cuisine or continental dishes.
Some popular Newari delicacies to try:
✔ Juju Dhau (King Curd): Bhaktapur’s famous sweet yogurt, thick and creamy.
✔ Samay Baji: A traditional platter with beaten rice, buffalo meat, lentil pancakes, and pickles.
✔ Chatamari: A Nepali-style pizza made from rice flour with a variety of toppings.

Activity: 6-7 hours

Max. Altitude: 2,175m/7,136ft. Nagarkot, Bhaktapur

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.
Includes and Excludes
What are included with package?
- Fuel surcharge with Driver: This fee covers the cost of fuel used during the tour. It ensures that the vehicle can operate smoothly throughout the trip, and is usually a separate charge added on top of the base tour cost.
- Experience and helpful tour guide: This refers to the guide who will accompany you during the tour. They are knowledgeable about the destination and will provide helpful information, ensuring a more enjoyable and informative experience.
- Entrance fee: The fee required to access specific attractions or sites during the tour. This could include cultural sites, museums, parks, or monuments, and is usually covered separately from the tour cost.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off: This service ensures that the tour company will pick you up from your hotel at the beginning of the tour and drop you back off at the end. It eliminates the need for additional transportation arrangements.
- Transport by private vehicle: The tour will provide a private vehicle for transportation, ensuring comfort, convenience, and flexibility throughout the trip. The vehicle is dedicated to your group, so you can travel at your own pace.
What are not included with package?
- Food and drinks: This refers to the meals and beverages that are not included in the tour package.
Pick Your Suitable Date
Book a Private Trip
Private & Group Discount Price
-
1 -
1 person
US$ 300
-
2 -
2 people
US$ 225
-
3 -
5 people
US$ 200
-
6 -
10 people
US$ 175
-
11 + people
9999
US$ 150
Total Cost:
US$ 300
Route Map & Altitude Chart
Kathmandu Hotel
Start/End point
Kathmandu Hotel
Trip Information
Entrance fees of Heritage Sites of Nepal:
Nepal is famous for world heritage sites, Tourist attractions places, and monuments areas. Tourism is the second income source of the country. Entrance fees, National park fees, climbing royalties are the backbone of the Nepalese economy. Foreigner tourists visiting heritage sites, attraction places, and monuments of the country and have to pay a certain entrance fee to get inside the area.
The people of South Asian countries (SAARC) have to pay fewer entrance fees in comparison to tourists from other countries. Many tourists want to see the typical Nepalese art and cultural places, happily paying the entrance fee because it is worth paying to visit.
The 7 heritage sites of Kathmandu valley are amazing. Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Changunarayan have their own history. They are not only rich in art and architecture but also fountain spiritual places of Hinduism and Buddhism. Most of the constructions made have a tantric background and old history.
Not only the Kathmandu valley but other parts of the country are also rich in nature and history. Lumbini (Birth Place of Gautam Buddha) Chitwan National park, Pokhara, Nagarkot, Trekking trails, Peak climbing, Expedition are the main tourist destination in Nepal and main income sources of the country. It is the government that keeps the price of priceless monuments and makes some money from tourists who visit them.
Please find the attached PDF file for the Entrance fees of World heritage and other attraction places in Nepal.
Entrance Fees of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal
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 (8848.86m)- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nagarkot Sunrise & Bhaktapur Durbar Square Tour?
The Nagarkot Sunrise & Bhaktapur Durbar Square Tour is a private sightseeing tour starting early morning from Kathmandu. It combines a scenic drive to Nagarkot viewpoint to witness the sunrise over the Himalayan ranges, followed by a cultural exploration of Bhaktapur, a city rich in Newari architecture and heritage.
What time does the Nagarkot sunrise tour begin?
The tour begins around 4:30 AM, ensuring you arrive at Nagarkot viewpoint in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Everest ranges. The early start provides optimal lighting for both viewing and photography.
How long does it take to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu?
It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by private vehicle to reach Nagarkot from Kathmandu, depending on traffic and weather. The scenic drive passes through lush hills and pine forests, offering a peaceful start to your day tour.
What mountains can be seen from Nagarkot?
From Nagarkot viewpoint, you can see a panoramic range of the Himalayas including Mount Everest, Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and even Manaslu on a clear day. This makes Nagarkot a top-rated sunrise and mountain view destination near Kathmandu.
What is included in the Bhaktapur Durbar Square visit?
In Bhaktapur Durbar Square, visitors can explore landmarks like the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, Vatsala Temple, and Pottery Square. The tour also includes Siddha Pokhari, showcasing the rich Newari craftsmanship and medieval architecture that Bhaktapur is known for.
What makes Bhaktapur Durbar Square a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is recognized by UNESCO for its well-preserved ancient Newari architecture, royal courtyards, historic temples, and traditional lifestyle. It reflects the cultural richness of the Malla period and is one of the seven World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley.
Is the tour suitable for people of all ages?
Yes, this is an easy and accessible tour suitable for all age groups. The walking involved in Bhaktapur is on paved, well-maintained paths, and Nagarkot requires only a short stroll to the viewpoint, making it ideal for families, seniors, and casual travelers.
What is the best time of year for this sunrise and cultural tour?
Yes, this Nagarkot-Bhaktapur private tour can be combined with Patan Durbar Square, Changunarayan Temple, or even a hiking extension from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan for those interested in active sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.
Why choose a private tour for this experience?
A private Nagarkot sunrise tour offers flexibility, personalized timing, and comfortable transportation. You get the full attention of a guide, better photo opportunities, and a more immersive experience in both natural and cultural highlights of Kathmandu Valley.