1 Days / Nepal
Nagarkot to Changu Narayan Hike
Activity
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Destinations
Trip Start / End
Max Altitude
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Best time to travel
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Dev Raj Nepal
+977 9851096523
Detailed Itinerary
The day starts with a hotel pickup in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Nagarkot (2,175m). As you leave the bustling city behind, enjoy stunning morning views of rolling hills, lush valleys, and distant Himalayan peaks along the way.
7:00 AM – Drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot (1.5 hrs)
The day starts with a hotel pickup in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Nagarkot (2,175m). As you leave the bustling city behind, enjoy stunning morning views of rolling hills, lush valleys, and distant Himalayan peaks along the way.
Upon arrival, take a short tea/coffee break to relax and soak in the fresh mountain air. A quick briefing on the route and safety tips will be given before starting the hike.
8:30 AM – Arrive in Nagarkot
Upon arrival, take a short tea/coffee break to relax and soak in the fresh mountain air. A quick briefing on the route and safety tips will be given before starting the hike.
The trek kicks off with a walk through serene pine forests and terraced fields, offering glimpses of rural life. Passing through small Tamang and Newar villages, you’ll witness traditional homes, friendly locals, and picturesque landscapes. The trail rewards you with panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley, making every step an experience in itself.
9:00 AM – Begin Hike from Nagarkot
The trek kicks off with a walk through serene pine forests and terraced fields, offering glimpses of rural life. Passing through small Tamang and Newar villages, you’ll witness traditional homes, friendly locals, and picturesque landscapes. The trail rewards you with panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley, making every step an experience in itself.
Arriving at Telkot, take a short break to rest and refresh. There’s also an optional visit to a local monastery, where you can experience the spiritual ambiance and admire the architecture.
11:30 AM – Reach Telkot (Midpoint Rest Stop)
Arriving at Telkot, take a short break to rest and refresh. There’s also an optional visit to a local monastery, where you can experience the spiritual ambiance and admire the architecture.
From Telkot, the trail continues through a mix of forested paths and open landscapes. The descent is gradual, with occasional gentle inclines, making for a pleasant and scenic walk toward the final destination.
12:00 PM – Continue the Hike to Changu Narayan
From Telkot, the trail continues through a mix of forested paths and open landscapes. The descent is gradual, with occasional gentle inclines, making for a pleasant and scenic walk toward the final destination.
Reaching Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, step into Nepal’s rich history. This oldest Hindu temple in Nepal is adorned with intricate stone carvings and sculptures, offering a deep cultural and architectural experience. Enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at a local restaurant while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding valley. Thereafter, explore the temple.
1:30 PM – Arrive at Changu Narayan Temple
Reaching Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, step into Nepal’s rich history. This oldest Hindu temple in Nepal is adorned with intricate stone carvings and sculptures, offering a deep cultural and architectural experience. Enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at a local restaurant while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding valley. Thereafter, explore the temple.
With the hike completed, board a private vehicle for a comfortable 1-hour drive back to Kathmandu. Arrive at your hotel, marking the end of a refreshing and culturally immersive day trek.
3:00 PM – Drive Back to Kathmandu (1 hour)
With the hike completed, board a private vehicle for a comfortable 1-hour drive back to Kathmandu. Arrive at your hotel, marking the end of a refreshing and culturally immersive day trek.
Includes / Excludes
Inclusions
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Private transportation
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Lunch
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Entrance ticket as per itinerary
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English speaking tour/hiking guide
Exclusions
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Tipping for guide and driver
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Insurance for the trip
Trip Info
The best time to do this hike is during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) when the weather is clear, the views are stunning, and the temperatures are pleasant.
Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, clear skies, and panoramic Himalayan views make this the ideal season. The trails are dry, and the visibility is excellent.
Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures and blooming rhododendrons add vibrant colors to the landscape. The views are also good, though some haze may occur in late spring.
Winter (December to February): Chilly mornings and evenings, but daytime hiking is still enjoyable. Expect crisp mountain views, but be prepared for colder weather.
This trek is considered easy to moderate, with a gradual descent and a few gentle ascents along the way. The terrain includes forest paths, terraced fields, and rural villages, offering a variety of surfaces to walk on. While the hike is suitable for beginners and casual hikers, a basic level of fitness is recommended. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a comfortable yet rewarding day trek near Kathmandu.
For a comfortable and enjoyable hike, please bring the following items:
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Supportive shoes with good grip are essential for the terrain.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially on a hike of this length.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun, especially during midday.
- Light Jacket or Sweater: Even during warmer months, mornings and evenings can be chilly.
- Snacks: Light snacks for the hike, especially if you’re a frequent snacker.
- Hat and Cap: For added sun protection.
Though this hike is relatively short, it’s still important to be in reasonable physical health. If you regularly engage in light walking, trekking, or outdoor activities, you should find the trail manageable. If you’re not used to hiking, it’s a good idea to get some light exercise before your trek, such as walking or stretching, to ensure a more comfortable experience. It’s a moderate challenge, but not demanding enough for experienced trekkers to feel overwhelmed.
Your safety is a priority during this trek. The hike is supervised by an experienced, English-speaking guide, who will ensure that you are safe and comfortable throughout the journey. Follow the guide’s advice regarding pace, safety, and route. It is also advisable to drink water regularly, especially during the warmer parts of the day. Furthermore, be prepared for changing weather conditions, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
FAQs
Personalized Travel Advice

Dev Raj Nepal
+977 9851096523