Nagarkot and Bhaktapur 1 Day Tour: Witness the Magic of Nagarkot’s Sunrise and Bhaktapur’s Living Museum

Nagarkot and Bhaktapur 1 Day Tour Experience Nepal’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Located a short drive from Kathmandu, this day trip offers the perfect blend of serenity and history. Begin your journey with a stunning sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, where panoramic mountain views take your breath away. Then, explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate temples, traditional architecture, and vibrant local culture. Ideal for those with limited time, this tour delivers unforgettable moments of both natural wonder and cultural depth in a single day.

Table of Contents

Sunrise at Nagarkot : A Himalayan Wakeup Call.

The day begins early with a scenic drive to Nagarkot, a small hill station located about 32 kilometers from Kathmandu. Famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on a clear day, Nagarkot is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Arriving in time for sunrise, you’ll witness the first rays of light gently illuminating the snow-capped peaks—an awe-inspiring moment that leaves a lasting impression.

Nagarkot, situated at an altitude of 2,175 meters, offers a tranquil atmosphere with fresh mountain air and lush landscapes. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or someone seeking quiet reflection, Nagarkot is a haven. You can enjoy a warm breakfast with mountain views or take a short nature walk along the ridge to soak in the serenity village of Changunarayan.

Changunarayan is a scenic and culturally enriching experience, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Starting from the peaceful hilltop of Nagarkot, known for its panoramic Himalayan views, the trail gradually descends through terraced fields, charming villages, and lush forests. Along the way, you’ll encounter local life, traditional farms, and breathtaking landscapes. The journey ends at Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, renowned for its exquisite stone carvings and historical significance.

Bhaktapur : A Living Museum of Newari Art, Architecture, and Tradition

From the peaceful heights of Nagarkot, the tour continues to Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the three ancient cities in the Kathmandu Valley. Known as the “City of Devotees,” Bhaktapur is a living museum of medieval Nepalese art, architecture, and culture. As you step into Bhaktapur Durbar Square, you’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back in time.

This historic square is a stunning display of Newari architecture and craftsmanship. Its cobblestone paths are lined with centuries-old temples, palaces, and intricately carved wooden windows. Notable landmarks include the 55-Window Palace, a symbol of royal grandeur; the Nyatapola Temple, the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal; the ornate Golden Gate, and the elegant Vatsala Temple, with its exquisite stone craftsmanship.

A guided walk through Bhaktapur’s narrow alleys reveals vibrant local life women drying grains in the sun, children playing in temple courtyards, and locals offering prayers. Don’t miss tasting the famous local delicacy, “Juju Dhau” (King Curd), a rich and creamy yogurt made in clay pots.

Short Itinirary of Nagarkot and Bhaktapur 1 Day Tour.

Experience a perfect trip from Kathmandu with a Himalayan sunrise in Nagarkot, a scenic hike to Changunarayan, and cultural exploration in Bhaktapur historic temples and artisan-filled streets.

5:00 AM – Drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot

Start your day early with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Nagarkot. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and offers glimpses of quiet villages and terraced hillsides. Arriving before sunrise ensures you catch the best views of the Himalayas as the day begins. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful drive to this beautiful hilltop destination.

6:30 AM – Sunrise at Nagarkot View Point

Arrive at the Nagarkot View Point just in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. On a clear day, you can see peaks like Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, Annapurna and more even Mount Everest in the distance. The early morning light paints the mountains in shades of gold and pink, offering a magical and unforgettable start to your day.

7:00 AM – Breakfast in Nagarkot

After sunrise, enjoy a warm breakfast at a nearby cafe with a view. Take in the peaceful atmosphere, crisp mountain air, and sweeping valley vistas. It’s the perfect setting to relax and fuel up before starting your hike. Local and continental breakfast options are available, often served with fresh tea or organic coffee.

8:00 AM – Hike to Changunarayan Temple

Begin your hike toward Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail winds through lush forests, terraced farmland, and traditional villages. This 3hour hike offers a blend of natural beauty and authentic rural life, with chances to interact with locals and enjoy stunning landscapes as you gradually descend toward the ancient temple site.

11:00 AM – Drive form Changunarayan to Bhaktapur

After reaching Changunarayan, take a short break to explore the temple complex, known as the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal. Then, enjoy a relaxing drive to Bhaktapur, which takes around 30 minutes. This journey transitions you from the quiet hills to the vibrant streets of a medieval city, setting the stage for an afternoon of cultural discovery.

12:00 AM – Lunch at Bhaktpur

Upon arrival in Bhaktapur, savor a traditional lunch at a local Newari restaurant. Enjoy dishes like bara, choila, or thali, all made with authentic flavors. Don’t miss “Juju Dhau,” Bhaktapur’s famous creamy yogurt. Dining in a heritage courtyard or rooftop spot adds to the unique cultural experience as you recharge before exploring the city’s historic landmarks.

1:00 PM – Guided Tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Join your guide for an in-depth tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO-listed site filled with centuries-old temples, royal courtyards, and exquisite woodwork. Highlights include the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and the Golden Gate. Learn about Newari architecture, religious customs, and the city’s rich history as you walk through its well-preserved medieval streets.

3:00 PM – Local Pottery & Handicraft Visit

Explore Bhaktapur’s vibrant artisan culture with visits to Pottery Square and local craft workshops. Watch potters spin clay into traditional vessels, or see woodcarvers and metalworkers in action. You may even try your hand at pottery-making. This is a great opportunity to shop for handmade souvenirs and observe skills passed down through generations.

4:40 PM – Drive Back to Kathmandu

After a fulfilling day of nature, history, and culture, drive back to Kathmandu. The return journey takes about an hour. Reflect on the day experiences from Himalayan views to ancient temples and artisan crafts as you head back to your hotel. This tour offers a perfect one-day escape into Nepal’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Entry Fee for Nagarkot and Bhaktapur 1 Day Tour

Entry fees must be paid to enter Heritage Sites, museums etc. at the entry point. Positive discriminatory entry fees are applicable to most of the sightseeing spots, i.e. different fees to Nepali (visitors and students), SAARC and Third-Country (other than SAARC) visitors.

Why Touch the Himalaya for this tour?

With years of experience in organizing guided tours across Nepal, Touch the Himalaya Treks and Expeditions Pvt. Ltd offers unmatched expertise, reliable service, and a deep understanding of local culture and geography. Our carefully designed Nagarkot–Bhaktapur day tour is led by licensed, English-speaking guides who ensure your safety, comfort, and meaningful engagement with Nepal’s heritage and natural beauty.

• Our main focus is to provide first class adventure tourism while generating a fairer income for local communities.
• We pride ourselves on our breadth of knowledge and networks, which allows us to focus on every detail of your journey ensuring minimum impact on the environment and local people.
• Therefore, we have been in the profession long enough to know what helps make our trips a huge success.
• We’ve spent many years finding places to stay that are quaint, out of the way, and comfortable when we take you to the most amazing parts of the Himalayas.
• When travelling with us, you will feel a sense of comfort as you become part of our family.
• Our team has been carefully selected for their specialized skills and talents along with their dedication to managing our large network of clients.

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