MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Nagarkot

Things to Do in Nagarkot

Nagarkot Around The Kathmandu Valley, Nepal Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Nagarkot a good location for outdoor adventures, notably hiking.

Hiking and Trekking Routes

Nagarkot View Tower Hike

Difficulty: Easy. Duration: 1-2 hours round trip from Nagarkot village center. A straightforward ascent, suitable for all ages.

Nagarkot to Changunarayan Hike

Difficulty: Moderate. Duration: 3-4 hours (downhill). This popular downhill hike leads through local villages and forests to the ancient temple.

Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Moderate. Duration: 3-4 hours. This trail along the ridge, continuous mountain views. A good option for dedicated hiking.

Other Outdoor Activities

  • Water Sports and Activities: Not applicable; Nagarkot a landlocked hill station.
  • Adventure Sports: Limited locally; paragliding, bungee jumping, rafting in other parts of Nepal.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Limited to birdwatching in Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park (over 300 bird species).
  • Cycling Routes: Mountain biking trails exist; bikes can be rented in Kathmandu or some Nagarkot hotels.

Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Hike

  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
  • Duration: 5-7 hours.
  • A longer hike connecting two hill stations.
  • Offers varied landscapes and a more extended outdoor challenge.

Shivapuri National Park Treks

  • Longer, more challenging treks can be arranged.
  • For those seeking wilderness immersion.
  • Within the national park boundaries.
  • These proper gear and preparation.

General Outdoor Tips

  • Always check trail conditions, especially after rain.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for longer or less-known routes.
  • This for safety and navigation.
  • Access tickets for attractions and tours through GetYourGuide.

Hiking Safety

Always check trail conditions, especially after rain. Consider hiring a local guide for longer or less-known routes. This for your safety and navigation.

Cultural Immersion

Nagarkot subtle opportunities for cultural immersion.

Workshops & Classes

  • Structured workshops or classes for traditional arts, crafts, music, or dance not regularly offered in Nagarkot.
  • These experiences widely available and popular in Kathmandu or Bhaktapur.
  • Cultural Performances: Not regularly scheduled in Nagarkot. For these, visit Bhaktapur or Kathmandu.
  • Major Festivals: For larger cultural festivals, be in Kathmandu or Bhaktapur (e.g., Dashain, Tihar).

Community Engagement

Homestays

Staying in a homestay direct insight into local life and customs. You can often participate in daily activities or learn from hosts.

Local Interaction

Engaging with locals in small tea shops, observing daily routines, or visiting local markets genuine cultural immersion.

Support Local

Purchase directly from local artisans or small, locally owned shops. This the community.

Language Learning

While formal classes not available, you can easily learn basic Nepali phrases from locals. They appreciate the effort.

Cultural Festivals

Nagarkot itself hosts small local festivals, community-focused. For larger cultural festivals, be in Kathmandu or Bhaktapur.

Community Tourism

Homestays provide direct insight into local life and customs. You can participate in daily activities or learn about traditions.

Relaxation & Wellness

Nagarkot's tranquil environment naturally itself to relaxation and wellness, with several establishments related services.

Spa and Wellness Centers

  • Many mid-range to luxury resorts spa services.
  • Services typically include various massages (Nepali, Ayurvedic, Swedish), body treatments, and beauty services.
  • Some resorts dedicated wellness centers with steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation areas.
  • Inquire with your chosen accommodation about their specific offerings.

Other Wellness Considerations

Hot Springs & Natural Therapy

No natural hot springs or established natural therapy options directly in Nagarkot. Nepal has hot springs elsewhere, often trekking.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Limited dedicated multi-day yoga or meditation retreats in Nagarkot. Some resorts or hotels may short sessions.

Traditional Healing Practices

Access to traditional Nepali healing practices (e.g., Ayurvedic consultations) limited. For these, seek out specialized clinics in Kathmandu.

Evening & Leisure

Pool Clubs & Facilities

Not applicable as Nagarkot a hill station. Some luxury resorts may swimming pools, often indoor or small outdoor ones for guest use.

Night Sky Entertainment

Embrace the quiet nights. The best 'entertainment' often a clear night sky filled with stars, possible by limited light pollution.

Quiet Evening Drinks

Enjoy a quiet drink at your hotel's bar and perhaps engage in conversation with other guests. Most activity ceases by 10 PM.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Nagarkot a destination mainly focused on natural beauty and tranquility.

Entertainment Venues

  • Live Music Venues: Very rare. Some larger resorts occasionally have soft music, but not regular.
  • Theater and Performance Spaces: None in Nagarkot. Cultural performances mainly in Kathmandu.
  • Nightclubs and Dancing: Non-existent. Atmosphere quiet, activity ceases by 10 PM.
  • Bar Districts and Pub Crawls: Not applicable. Alcohol available in hotel restaurants and bars, generally quiet.

Late Night & Ambiance

Late-Night Entertainment

Almost non-existent. Activity revolves around hotel restaurants and in-house bars, which close relatively early (typically by 9:30 PM - 10:00 PM).

Quiet Nights

Embrace the quiet nights in Nagarkot. The best 'entertainment' often a clear night sky filled with stars, possible by limited light pollution.

Evening Relaxation

Enjoy a quiet drink at your hotel's bar and perhaps engage in conversation with other guests.

Small Local Shops

  • Nagarkot a few small local shops and general stores.
  • Selling basic necessities, snacks, and common souvenirs.
  • No large traditional markets or extensive bazaars here.

Souvenir Variety

  • Pashmina Products: High-quality shawls, scarves, blankets.
  • Wood Carvings: From Bhaktapur, intricate designs.
  • Nepali Tea: Local organic varieties.
  • Local Handicrafts: Prayer flags, small brassware, hand-knitted items.

Shipping & Customs

  • For larger purchases, shipping services available from Kathmandu.
  • Be aware of home country's customs regulations regarding imports.
  • Especially for antiques or items made from protected materials.
  • Obtain necessary permits if required. Keep receipts for high-value items.

Shopping Guidance

Ethical Shopping
  • Support local: purchase directly from local artisans or small, locally owned shops.
  • This the money benefits the community.
  • Be aware of child labor concerns; purchase from reputable sources.
Shopping Locations
  • Artisan workshops and crafts: Limited direct access in Nagarkot itself.
  • For a wider array of goods, visit markets in Bhaktapur or Thamel (Kathmandu).
  • Bhaktapur is famous for its pottery, wood carvings, and traditional Newari crafts.

Shopping Overview

Shopping in Nagarkot on local crafts and souvenirs, a smaller selection compared to the bustling markets of Kathmandu or Bhaktapur.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Pursuits

  • Hiking and trekking routes for various fitness levels.
  • Birdwatching opportunities in Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park.
  • Mountain biking trails for scenic rides.
  • No water sports or high-adrenaline adventure sports locally.

Cultural & Wellness Focus

  • Homestays direct cultural immersion.
  • Limited formal workshops or performances in Nagarkot.
  • Spa services available at many resorts.
  • Emphasis on quiet nights, star gazing, and natural tranquility.