Things to do · Nagarkot
Nagarkot to Changu Narayan Hike
An easy, mostly downhill ridge walk ending at Nepal's oldest Hindu temple, Changu Narayan.
- Address
- Nagarkot to Changu Narayan trail, Bhaktapur 44600, Nepal
The Nagarkot to Changu Narayan hike is the classic day walk off the ridge — a mostly downhill ramble that trades the mountain horizon for forest, terraced fields and a finish at one of Nepal's most important ancient temples. It is the natural thing to do after a Nagarkot sunrise, while the air is still cool.
The short answer
Walk downhill from the Nagarkot ridge to Changu Narayan temple — about 12 to 14 kilometres over four to five hours at an easy pace. It is beginner-friendly, with only short uphill stretches, and ends at a UNESCO-listed temple from where transport runs on to Bhaktapur and Kathmandu, so you never have to climb back up.
The route
From the ridge the trail drops through pine forest and farming hamlets, with the Himalaya behind you for the first stretch and the green Kathmandu Valley opening ahead. The path is well established and easy to follow, passing villages where you can pause for tea. The final approach climbs gently to the temple hilltop at Changu Narayan.
Changu Narayan temple
The walk ends at Changu Narayan, often described as the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, with origins reaching back to the 4th century. Dedicated to Vishnu and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is celebrated for its centuries-old stone and metal sculpture. Allow time to wander the small museum and the courtyard before moving on.
Good to know
- Start early, just after sunrise, while it is cool and the views are sharp.
- Wear proper shoes and carry water; shade and shops thin out between villages.
- Carry cash for tea stops and the temple entry fee.
- Arrange your onward transport in advance, or plan to continue into Bhaktapur afterward.
This hike pairs naturally with the morning covered in our Nagarkot sunrise guide. If you want a longer, higher walk instead, compare it with the Nagarkot to Dhulikhel ridge hike. To fit it into your schedule, see the Nagarkot itinerary and browse more things to do in Nagarkot. For the full overview of the area, start at the Nagarkot travel guide.
Featured in
More what to do in Nagarkot
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Nagarkot to Changu Narayan hike?+
It is roughly 12 to 14 kilometres and takes about four to five hours at an easy pace. Because it is mostly downhill, it feels gentle, but allow extra time to enjoy the views and explore the temple complex at the end.
Is the Nagarkot to Changu Narayan hike difficult?+
No. It is one of the easier day hikes near Kathmandu, descending from the Nagarkot ridge through forest and farming villages. There are a few short uphill sections but nothing demanding, so it suits most fitness levels with decent shoes and water.
What is Changu Narayan temple?+
Changu Narayan is widely considered the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Vishnu and dating in part to the 4th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in ancient stone and metal sculpture, and a fitting end point for the walk.
How do you get back after the hike?+
From Changu Narayan it is a short drive or local bus to Bhaktapur, and on to Kathmandu from there. Many travellers arrange a taxi to meet them, or combine the hike with an onward visit to Bhaktapur's old town.
