Nagarkot, Nepal Travel Guide

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nagarkot, Nepal's serene hill station known for its panoramic Himalayan views, vibrant sunrises, and tranquil village life.

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Nagarkot is a tranquil haven that offers stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the iconic Mount Everest. Located just 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, this picturesque hill station sits at an altitude of 2,175 meters, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Renowned for its awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets, Nagarkot provides a unique vantage point to witness the first rays of sunlight kissing the Himalayan range. On clear days, you can enjoy an uninterrupted view of eight out of the thirteen Himalayan ranges in Nepal, an experience that is both humbling and exhilarating. The charm of Nagarkot extends beyond its natural beauty. The village is dotted with traditional Nepali houses, terraced fields, and ancient temples, offering a glimpse into the local culture and way of life. Whether you are trekking through pine forests, cycling along scenic trails, or simply relaxing with a cup of tea at one of the many cozy lodges, Nagarkot promises a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nagarkot.

Visit during the autumn or spring for the clearest views of the Himalayas.
Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially during the night.
Start your day early to catch the mesmerizing sunrise over the Himalayas.
Explore the local trails on foot or by mountain bike to fully appreciate the natural beauty.
Stay in a lodge with a rooftop terrace to enjoy uninterrupted views of the mountains.

Explore Nagarkot: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Nagarkot

Top-rated picks

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Pashupatinath Temple

Explore the spiritual heart of Nepal at Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient traditions and vibrant rituals come to life.

4.7

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning temples and ancient architecture.

4.5

Patan Darbar Square

Discover the architectural marvels and vibrant culture of Patan Darbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur, Nepal.

4.6

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Nepal.

4.6

Best landmarks in Nagarkot

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Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Discover the rich heritage and stunning architecture at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage gem in Nepal.

4.6

Nagarkot Geodetic Survey Tower

Explore the stunning vistas of the Himalayas from the Nagarkot Geodetic Survey Tower, a premier observation deck for breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

4.2

Nyatapola Temple

Discover the spiritual and architectural grandeur of Nyatapola Temple, a historic gem in the heart of Bhaktapur, Nepal.

4.7

Hotel Country Villa

Discover comfort and tranquility at Hotel Country Villa in Nagarkot, where stunning Himalayan views and relaxation await you.

4.4

Best restaurants in Nagarkot

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Hotel Country Villa

Experience unparalleled comfort at Hotel Country Villa, your gateway to the majestic Himalayas with exceptional dining and wellness options.

4.4

Peaceful Cottage & Café du Mont

Discover tranquility at Peaceful Cottage & Café du Mont – your perfect getaway in Nagarkot with stunning views and authentic Nepalese cuisine.

4.1

Hotel Everest Window View

Experience unparalleled mountain views and serene hospitality at Hotel Everest Window View in Nagarkot.

4.1

Coffeeshop Restaurant and Bar

Discover the charm of Coffeeshop Restaurant and Bar in Bageshwori – where delightful cuisine meets stunning views along Nagarkot Road.

4.1

Best bars in Nagarkot

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Hotel Country Villa

Discover the serene beauty of Nagarkot at Hotel Country Villa, where luxury meets nature in a breathtaking Himalayan setting.

4.4

Peaceful Cottage & Café du Mont

Experience the serene beauty of Nagarkot at Peaceful Cottage & Café du Mont, a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and authentic Nepalese cuisine.

4.1

Coffeeshop Restaurant and Bar

Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and international cuisine at Coffeeshop Restaurant and Bar, your cozy retreat in Nagarkot.

4.1

The Garuda Bar

Discover the charm of Bhaktapur at The Garuda Bar, where stunning views meet exquisite flavors in a vibrant setting.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Nagarkot

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Club Himalaya by ACE Hotels

Experience breathtaking Himalayan views and luxury at Club Himalaya, the perfect resort hotel for relaxation and adventure in Nagarkot.

4.4

Hotel Country Villa

Discover tranquility at Hotel Country Villa: a picturesque resort in Nagarkot with stunning Himalayan views, delicious dining, and a serene spa experience.

4.4

LOD - Lord of the Drinks

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Lord of the Drinks in Thamel, where vibrant music and exquisite cocktails await you for an unforgettable experience.

3.9

The Fort Resort, Nagarkot

Discover serene luxury at The Fort Resort, Nagarkot - your gateway to breathtaking Himalayan vistas and tranquil surroundings.

4.4

Best shops in Nagarkot

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The majhi khaja ghar

Experience the serene charm of The Majhi Khaja Ghar, a coffee lover's paradise nestled in the breathtaking hills of Nagarkot.

3.9

How Romantic General Store

Discover local treasures at How Romantic General Store in Nagarkot, where unique souvenirs and breathtaking Himalayan views await every traveler.

3.9

Surendra Kirana Store

Discover the vibrant Surendra Kirana Store in Bhaktapur, where fresh produce meets local culture in a bustling market atmosphere.

4.0

Dhruba Kirana Store

Explore the vibrant flavors of Nepal at Dhruba Kirana Store, your go-to grocery destination in Mahamanjushree Nagarkot.

4.0

Explore Nagarkot on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Nagarkot, mapped for you.

Nagarkot Essentials

Nagarkot is located approximately 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, Nepal's capital. The most convenient way to reach Nagarkot is by road. You can hire a private taxi from Kathmandu, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, there are public buses and microbuses that run from Kathmandu's Ratna Park Bus Station to Bhaktapur, and from Bhaktapur, you can catch another bus or hire a taxi to Nagarkot. For a more scenic and adventurous route, you can also opt for a guided hike from Bhaktapur to Nagarkot, which takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Nagarkot is a small hill station, and most of its attractions are accessible by foot. For longer distances within the town or to nearby villages, local taxis and jeeps are available. Renting a bicycle is also a popular option for exploring the area at your own pace. Public buses are infrequent but can be used to travel to and from nearby towns like Bhaktapur and Kathmandu.
The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Nagarkot, but their reliability can vary. It is a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash in Kathmandu or Bhaktapur before traveling to Nagarkot.
Nagarkot is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Nagarkot, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance or 102 for medical emergencies. Nagarkot has a few medical clinics and pharmacies for minor health issues, but for more serious medical attention, you may need to travel to Kathmandu. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
Fashion: Do dress modestly and comfortably. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering temples and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' (a slight bow with your palms together). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Nagarkot like a local, consider staying in a homestay where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. Visit the Nagarkot View Tower for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, especially during sunrise and sunset. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to hike the various trails around Nagarkot, which offer breathtaking views and a chance to experience the natural beauty up close.

When is the best time to visit Nagarkot?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Nagarkot

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Nagarkot. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्ते
  [Namaste]
- Goodbyeफेरि भेटौं
  [Phiri bhetau]
- Yesहो
  [Ho]
- Noहोइन
  [Hoin]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [Kripya]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhanyabad]
- Excuse me/Sorryमाफ गर्नुहोस्
  [Maaf garnuhos]
- How are you?तपाईंलाई कस्तो छ?
  [Tapailai kasto cha?]
- Fine. And you?राम्रो छ। तपाईंलाई?
  [Ramro cha. Tapailai?]
- Do you speak English?तपाईंले अंग्रेजी बोल्नुहुन्छ?
  [Tapainle angreji bolnuhuncha?]
- I don't understandमलाई सम्झिएन
  [Malai samjhiena]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनु हेर्न चाहन्छु
  [Kripya menu hernu chahanchu]
- I don't eat meatम मासु खाँदिन
  [Ma masu khandina]
- Cheers!चियर्स!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया भुक्तानी गर्न चाहन्छु
  [Kripya bhuktani garn chahanchu]
- Help!मदद गर्नुहोस्!
  [Madad garnuhos!]
- Go away!दूर हाजिर गर!
  [Dur hajir gar!]
- Call the Police!प्रहरीलाई बोलाउनुहोस्!
  [Prahari lai bolaunuhos!]
- Call a doctor!डाक्टरलाई बोलाउनुहोस्!
  [Doctor lai bolaunuhos!]
- I'm lostम खोइएको छु
  [Ma khoieko chu]
- I'm illम बिरामी छु
  [Ma birami chu]
- I'd like to buy...म खरीद गर्न चाहन्छु...
  [Ma kharid garn chahanchu...]
- I'm just lookingम फेरि हेर्दैछु
  [Ma pheri herdai chu]
- How much is it?यो कति हो?
  [Yo kati ho?]
- That's too expensiveयो धेरै महँगो छ
  [Yo dherai mahango cha]
- Can you lower the price?के तपाईं मुल्य हाल्न सक्छिन्?
  [Ke tapain mulya halna sakchin?]
- What time is it?कति बजे भएको छ?
  [Kati baje bhaeko cha?]
- It's one o'clockएक बजे भएको छ
  [Ek baje bhaeko cha]
- Half past (10)(१०) को अर्धा गएको छ
  [(10) ko ardha gayeko cha]
- Morningबिहान
  [Bihaan]
- Afternoonदिउँसो
  [Diunso]
- Eveningसाँझ
  [Saanjh]
- Yesterdayहिजो
  [Hijo]
- Todayआज
  [Aaj]
- Tomorrowभोलि
  [Bholi]
- 1एक
  [Ek]
- 2दुई
  [Dui]
- 3तीन
  [Tin]
- 4चार
  [Char]
- 5पाँच
  [Paanch]
- 6छ
  [Chha]
- 7सात
  [Saath]
- 8आठ
  [Aath]
- 9नौ
  [Nau]
- 10दस
  [Das]
- Where's a/the...?...कहाँ छ?
  [...Kaha cha?]
- What's the address?ठेगाना के हो?
  [Thegana ke ho?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?के तपाईं मलाई देखाउन सक्छिनुहुन्छ (नक्सामा)?
  [Ke tapain malai dekhaun sakchinhuncah (naksama)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अर्को (बस) कहाँ जान्छ?
  [Arko (bas) kaha janch?]
- A ticket (to ....)तस्वीर (....) लागि
  [Tasvir (...) lagi]

History of Nagarkot

Nagarkot, perched at an altitude of 2,175 meters above sea level, has long been a strategic vantage point. Historically, it served as a fort to monitor the external activities of other kingdoms. Its name, 'Nagarkot', is derived from 'Nagar' meaning city and 'Kot' meaning fort. The ancient fortifications once established by the Malla rulers of Bhaktapur provided a lookout over the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas, ensuring the safety and security of the region.
During the medieval period, Nagarkot became an integral part of the Malla kingdom. The Malla rulers, known for their architectural prowess, established several temples and palaces in the region. Though much of the medieval architecture has been lost to time, the influence of the Malla dynasty remains palpable in the cultural fabric of Nagarkot. The strategic importance of the area continued to grow as it became a retreat for the Malla kings, who sought solace and strategic advantage from its heights.
In the late 18th century, Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal, recognized the strategic importance of Nagarkot. During his campaign to unify Nepal, he used the region as a military outpost. The Shah dynasty maintained the fortifications and utilized Nagarkot to oversee the Kathmandu Valley. This period marked Nagarkot’s transition from a strategic fort to a serene retreat, blending its military history with the natural beauty that began attracting visitors.
Nagarkot is not just a site of historical importance but also a place of cultural and religious reverence. The region hosts numerous temples and shrines that date back centuries. One of the most notable is the Mahadev Pokhari Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting devotees from far and wide. The annual festivals and rituals performed here encapsulate the rich cultural heritage of the region, making Nagarkot a vibrant tapestry of Nepalese traditions.
In the 20th century, Nagarkot’s appeal transformed from a strategic outpost to a tourist haven. Its panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days, drew both domestic and international tourists. The development of infrastructure, including roads and hotels, began in earnest in the 1970s, turning Nagarkot into a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Today, it is renowned for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, trekking routes, and as a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Kathmandu.