Changu Narayan / Nargakot / Dhulikhel Trek
A short cultural trek near Kathmandu combining UNESCO heritage, Himalayan panoramas, sunrise views, and sacred pilgrimage sites at Changu Narayan, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Namo Buddha.
Country
Nepal
Duration
3 Days
Difficulty
Easy
Trip Type
Short Trekking
Max Altitude
2175m/7135ft
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Accomodation
3***Hotel + Logde accommodation on twin sharing bed basis during the Trekking.
Meals
All meals (Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast) with cup of hot drinks during the trekking.
Start/End Point
Kathmandu
Highlights & Overview
Visit Changu Narayan Temple (UNESCO site), the oldest temple in the Kathmandu ValleyScenic trek through pine forests, farmlands, and villagesNagarkot sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas including EverestTraditional Newar town of Dhulikhel with historic temples and architecturePanoramic Himalayan views of Langtang, Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh HimalPeaceful Buddhist pilgrimage site Namo Buddha with stupa and monasteryShort trek suitable for families, cultural travelers, and beginners
Changu Narayan Nargakot Dhulikhel Trek:
As the name suggests, Changunarayan Nagarkot Dhulikhel trek passes through many sites of religious, cultural and historical importance, Changunarayan Nagarkot trekking is therefore known by various names such as, Hike to Nagarkot, Changunarayan Nagarkot hiking, Dhulikhel treks, trek to Dhulikhel and Dhulikhel trekking etc. Situated on a scenic hill top, trek to Changu Narayan is famous for its unique example of Nepali pagoda architecture and culture experiences. Likewise, very close from Kathmandu, trek to Nagarkot is the best possible option to observe stunning views of Himalayas. We offer exciting Changu Narayan Nagarkot tours and Nagarkot Sun set view tours and treks
Early sunrise view from Nagarkot is the most fascinating and mesmerizing view. The village of Nagarkot is on the edge of the valley and offers superb view of the mountains as well as Kathmandu valley. Along with this you visit the temple at Changunarayan which offers you to have a peek observation of the religious practice of Nepalese people.
Early sunrise view from Nagarkot is the most fascinating and mesmerizing view. The village of Nagarkot is on the edge of the valley and offers superb view of the mountains as well as Kathmandu valley. Along with this you visit the temple at Changunarayan which offers you to have a peek observation of the religious practice of Nepalese people.
Changu Narayan / Nargakot / Dhulikhel Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Changu Narayan (1500m/4921ft) and Trek to Nagarkot (2175m/7135ft)
After breakfast, you drive around 20 km east of Kathmandu to reach Changu Narayan (1500m/4921ft), one of the most sacred and oldest temples in Nepal, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Believed to have been built in 323 AD by King Hari Dutta, this ancient shrine offers rich history, culture, and traditional Newar artistry. After exploring the temple complex, you begin your trek toward Nagarkot (2175m/7135ft). The walk passes through lush pine forests, charming villages, and terraced farmlands. Nagarkot is one of Nepal’s most popular hilltop destinations for its sweeping Himalayan panoramas, breathtaking sunsets, and sunrises over mountains including Everest, Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Ganesh Himal. Overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Nagarkot.
Max Altitude
2175m/7135ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 2: Nagarkot to Dhulikhel (1440m/4724ft)
Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot. After breakfast, start trekking through pine forests and gentle trails that descend toward picturesque terraced fields and scattered villages. The journey is filled with opportunities to learn about rural lifestyles and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range including Dorje Lakpa (6966m), Gauri Shankar (7145m), and Langtang (7324m). After 5–6 hours of trekking, you arrive at Dhulikhel (1440m/4724ft), an ancient Newar town famous for its traditional architecture, cultural charm, and expansive Himalayan views stretching from Karyolung in the east to Himalchuli in the west. Exploring the old town is a cultural delight, with historic temples and beautifully crafted old buildings. Overnight at hotel in Dhulikhel.
Max Altitude
1440m/4724ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 3: Dhulikhel to Namo Buddha (1982m/6502ft) and Drive to Kathmandu
After breakfast, continue trekking to Namo Buddha (1982m/6502ft), one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal. Situated on a serene hilltop above Panauti, it takes around 3 hours to reach from Dhulikhel. The stupa, monastery, and surrounding shrines commemorate the famous legend of the Buddha’s compassion and self-sacrifice. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place for reflection and spiritual connection. After exploring, you will drive back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your short cultural and scenic trekking experience.
Max Altitude
1982m/6502ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Price Includes
Transportation to trekking starting point and from ending pointTrekking Information Management System Fee (TIMS Fee)National park Conservation FeeLodge trek with all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and accommodation in tea house lodge.Services of English speaking trekking guide and porter (one porter for two people and the maximum weight carry by one porter is total 25kg)Accommodation, meals, insurance, equipment and allowance of guide and porter.Sleeping bag and down jacket if necessary.All applicable government taxes and service charges.Price Doesn't Include
Any accommodation and meals in KathmanduAny sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.Any international and domestic airfareYour personal travel insurance and medical.Bottled drinks (mineral water, any cold drinks, and alcoholic drinks).Expenses of personal nature such as tips for guide, porter, and driver, laundry, bar bill, telephone calls etc.Liability for expenses against sickness, flight cancellation, road blockage, accidents, and other occurrence, beyond our control.Nepal visa fee.Any other optional services not mentioned above as included.Packing Lists
Cloathing
Lightweight trekking pants and shirtsWarm jacket or fleece for mornings/eveningsWaterproof and windproof jacketComfortable walking shoes/trekking bootsHat/cap for sun protectionScarf or buffGears
Daypack (20–30L)Reusable water bottleSunglasses with UV protectionTrekking poles (optional but useful for downhill)Headlamp or small torchPersonal Items
Sunscreen and lip balmPersonal toiletries (toothbrush, soap, wet wipes)Quick-dry towelSmall first aid kit with basic medicinesCamera or smartphone for photosOther Items You Can Bring
Power bank for charging devicesLightweight snacks or energy barsNotebook/journalCopies of travel documents and some local currency