Nagarkot
Famed as the perfect spot to enjoy Himalayan views, Nagarkot is considered the best among all the places for mountain viewing in the Kathmandu Valley. Located just 32 km from Kathmandu, the village is packed with hotels lining a ridge, affording one of the broadest possible views of the Himalaya, with eight ranges visible (Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, Rolwaling, Everest and Numbur).
Attractions
Offering a refreshing environment away from the hectic busy schedules of Kathmandu, Nagarkot provides a scenic beauty and divine peace far from heat, dust, smoke and city’s hustle bustle.? Being the nearest point from the Kathmandu Valley, the view of Mount Everest can be seen from here on a clear day.
Nagarkot is ideal hilltop venue to enjoy for high altitude adventures as it is located at 7200 ft above sea level. It is the transit point for Helambu and Lang-tang trekking. The place is also a perfect spot for mini-trekking, and there are several treks possible to and from Nagarkot such as sankhu, changu Narayan, Dhulikhel, Sundarijal, Nala, etc.
One can also tour the village distillery at the backyard of houses, along with a visit to the cheese factory. Lovers of extreme sport cannot leave this place without enjoying the rock climbing. To experience the perfect adrenaline rush, Nagarkot view tower standing at an elevation of 2150 meters above sea level is the perfect place to be.
One could also hike to Changu Narayan Temple, Chisapani, dhulikhel, Dhulikhel and Melamchi. Situated in a strategic location, Nagarkot was an ancient fort of the Kathmandu valley to monitor external activities of other kingdoms. Later, it became a summer retreat place for the Royals before gaining popularity as a hill station.
Best time to visit Nagarkot
Nagarkot is often visited to have a clear view of the Himalayan Peaks, therefore the best months to visit the place is from October to April. You will be awarded with clear mornings with the most stunning views of Himalayas at sunrise. During the monsoon from June to September, it is unlikely to get a view of the mountains.