Introduction
Nagarkot:
Nestled in the northern fringe of Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot is a captivating destination that many tourists prefer. This hill station boasts unparalleled natural beauty and offers a myriad of experience that makes this place a must visit if you are around Kathmandu. Located just 32km away from Kathmandu, Nagarkot is an ideal place to catch a glimpse of the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas.
Changunarayan:
The oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley, Changunarayan, is one of Nepal’s most popular religious sites. Dating back to the 7th century, it is also religiously significant. The Changunarayan temple which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Manohara River flows right beside this temple. On the way to ChanguNarayan, you can also explore the Changunarayan Museum.
Nagarkot to Changunarayan: The Hike
From Nagarkot, the trail descends through terraced fields and forests to the ancient town of Changunarayan temple, which is home to one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the peaceful countryside and stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The entire trek is about 12km and takes 5-6 hours to complete. However, this may depend on your speed.
Hikers can explore the Nagarkot View Tower, which provides some of the best views of the Himalayas. The trail contains lush, primarily green forests, and along the hike, you can enjoy stunning panoramas of the Himalayan range. Various activities like bird watching and sunrise viewing make this trek an unforgettable journey for hikers. The trail also contains small villages along the way that can be explored. The rural life of Nepal and the ancient Newari Community can be witnessed in these villages. The maximum elevation throughout this hike is 2100m. The difficulty of this hike is moderate and most people can easily complete this hike without complications.
After walking for around 4 hours, you will reach the famous Changunarayan Temple. Hikers on this must be well-prepared as the weather pattern changes quickly around this area. Only essential items should be packed for this hike and avoid carrying unnecessary food items or excessive clothes.
Best Time for the Hike:
Autumn and Spring are by far the best time to hike around this area. The weather is much calmer around this time of the year. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of some of the tallest peaks in the world, which include:
- Mount Everest (8848m)
- Kanchenjunga (8586m)
- Dhaulagiri (8167m)
- Annapurna Mountain Range (8091m)
- Ganesh Himal (7422m)
Tips For This Hike:
- Early Morning Start: Hikers are advised to start early on this hike as you can witness an amazing sunrise from Nagarkot. Starting early on the hike can buy you some extra time to make stops along the way.
- Pack Wisely: Carry only essential items such as adequate food and water. Avoid bringing unnecessary items such as heavy cameras and excessive clothing items, which can affect your overall hiking experience.
- Leave no Traces: Do not throw litter away on the trail. Collect plastic items and garbage if seen on the trail.
Conclusion
The Nagarkot to Changunarayan hike offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This trail provides an excellent opportunity for both beginners and experienced hikers to experience Nepal’s serene landscape, charming villages, and rich history within a few hours. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an enriching cultural experience, this hike promises a memorable journey through one of Nepal’s most picturesque routes.
Also Read: How to Reach Thorong La: Complete Guide
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