Nagarkot Changunarayan Hiking is the best hiking trail in Nepal for exploring cultural aspects with high mountain scenery. The hike starts from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. You'll drive to Shankhu, a historical and pilgrimage place. Then, you'll walk through villages and forests to reach Nagarkot, a famous hill station in Nepal.
Nagarkot, one of Nepal's most well-known mountain villages, is 32 kilometers northeast of the Kathmandu Valley. Nagarkot is famous for sunrise and sunset views over the stunning Himalayan range.
The Nagarkot hiking trail from Sankhu is a relatively unexplored path through attractive towns, verdant forests, and breathtaking vistas. The starting site, the historic village of Sankhu, is just a short drive from Kathmandu.
Sankhu village (1500 m) is an ancient and traditional Newar city in Kathmandu Valley. You can see the old wood-carved buildings, temples, and wooden stone spring traps in Sankhu. Sankhu means Conch City. Visitors examine the sacred rivers Shalinadi, Madav Narayan, and Swasthani Mata Temple, which depict Satyayug history.
Changunarayan is the oldest Hindu temple and belongs to God Vishnu. King Mandev from the Lichhabi dynasty built it in the third century. The temple is decorated with some of the best stone, wood, and metal craft samples in the Kathmandu Valley. This UNESCO site is famous for its history and architecture from the ancient period.
The Major Highlights of Nagarkot Changunarayan Hiking in Nepal
- Sunset and Sunrise Views with the Most Scenic Spot of the Himalayas Panorama, including Mt. Everest, Langtang, and Gauri Shankar
- Enjoy walking through various villages and beautiful terrace landscapes.
- Buddhist and Hindu Culture
- Old Newari village, Sankhu, terraced field
- Relish the Newar and Tamang communities' local culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
- Visit Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Intricately carved wooden and stone sculptures
