Getting around · Nepal
Kathmandu to Nagarkot
Local bus, taxi or private car — how to travel from Kathmandu to Nagarkot, the famous Himalayan sunrise viewpoint, in 1.5 to 2 hours.
Nagarkot is a short hop from the capital — about 30km and 1.5 to 2 hours by car or taxi, depending on Kathmandu's traffic. There is no flight; the only way up to this Himalayan sunrise viewpoint is by road. For the famous sunrise over the eastern Himalaya, plan to stay overnight rather than rush a day trip.
At a glance
| Mode | Duration | Approx cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private car/taxi | 1.5–2 hrs | USD 25–45 | Easiest; can stop in Bhaktapur |
| Local bus (via Bhaktapur) | 2.5–3 hrs | Under USD 2 | Cheapest; requires a change |
| Tour with hotel transfer | 1.5–2 hrs | Varies | Often bundled with an overnight stay |
By local bus
Public buses do not run directly. Take a bus from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur, then change for the bus that climbs to Nagarkot. It is very cheap but slow and involves a transfer, so allow 2.5 to 3 hours overall. This route works well if you want to sightsee in Bhaktapur on the way up.
By private car or taxi
A private car or taxi is the simplest option, taking you door to door in 1.5 to 2 hours. Most drivers will happily stop in Bhaktapur for an hour or two of sightseeing, which makes the trip up much more rewarding. Agree the fare and any waiting time before you set off.
Which option to choose
Hire a car or taxi for comfort and the easy Bhaktapur stop, or take the local bus to save money if you do not mind changing. Either way, stay the night so you catch the sunrise — the reason most people come.
Tips
- Book a hotel with an east-facing terrace or rooftop for the sunrise.
- Combine the trip with Bhaktapur's Durbar Square on the way.
- Clear autumn and spring mornings give the best mountain views.
Plan onward travel with getting around Nepal. It pairs naturally with the Kathmandu to Bhaktapur route, which sits on the way up. Read more about the viewpoint in Nagarkot and start your trip from Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from Kathmandu to Nagarkot?+
It is about 30km and takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by car or taxi, depending on Kathmandu traffic. Public buses take longer, often with a change in Bhaktapur, so allow 2.5 to 3 hours by bus.
How much does it cost to get from Kathmandu to Nagarkot?+
A private taxi or car costs around USD 25 to 45 one way depending on bargaining. The local bus is very cheap, usually under USD 2, but slower and requires a change in Bhaktapur.
Is there a flight from Kathmandu to Nagarkot?+
No. Nagarkot is a hill town close to Kathmandu, so there is no airport and no flight. Travel is by road only — car, taxi or local bus.
Can I do Nagarkot as a day trip from Kathmandu?+
Yes, but for the famous sunrise you should stay overnight. Many people combine Nagarkot with Bhaktapur on the way, spend the night at a viewpoint hotel and return the next morning after watching the Himalaya light up.
What is the best way to get to Nagarkot?+
A private car or taxi is the easiest and quickest, especially if you stop in Bhaktapur on the way. Budget travellers take a local bus to Bhaktapur and change for the Nagarkot bus.
