Nagarkot, at an altitude of 2,175 meter above the sea level, is the most popular touristic destination out of the Kathmandu Valley. It is the favorite weekend gateaway among those seeking mountain view in comfort and quiet. At sunrise, the Himalayan range, stretching from Dhaulagiri in the west all the way past Everest to Kanchenjunga in the east, emerges from the darkness to greet the happy visitors with its awe inspiring majesty and beauty. For those wishing to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh morning air, there are charming walking trails as well as a lookout tower from which the sights can be taken in. Getting to Nagarkot is easy that doesn’t take more than two hours by a tourist bus.

Among all the places for mountain viewing around Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot is usually considered to be the best. The views go from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east. On a clear day you can see Mt. Everest (Sagarmatha). You can also see Manaslu (8,463m), Ganesh Himal (7,111m), and Langtang (7,246m). Many people go up to Nagarkot in the afternoon, stay in a hotel in Nagarkot, and then get up at dawn to see the Himalaya Mountains during the sunrise.

There is a lookout tower south of the village where you can get a 360º view of the scenery. It is an easy one hour walk from the main hotel area. To get there you have to pass an army checkpoint, and they will only let you pass in the morning. You can go to Nagarkot in the afternoon and stay over night and view the mountain at sun rise.

Where to Stay and Eat
If you plan to stay over-night during the high-season, it is best to book your hotel room on arrival or in advance, as they often become full later in the day. In you arrive later in the day you may have to take whatever you can get, which may mean a room without a view. If you arrive before the tourist bus in the afternoon you can get a better selection of rooms. Many of the hotels are booked by agents in Kathmandu, who often charge highly inflated prices. It is best to call to the lodge or hotel directly to book a room. Budget hotels do not usually have hot water or heating. It can be cold here so you might want to bring a sleeping bag in the winter.

Recommended by  Lonely Planet

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