History and Nature: Nagarkot and Bhaktapur - 1 Days

Visit to Sankhu & Hike to Nagarkot:

Sankhu, situated at the riverbank of Shalinadi (River), is the oldest urban center of the valley, believed to have been established in 1299 BC. It is very famous for the artistic temple of Bajra Jogini, the town’s guardian goddess.

Sankhu is mostly a settlement of Newari Peoples, old Newari Culture and traditions, and the name itself Sankhu derived from the original Newar language Sakwo: means the settlement next to Tibet. As the name suggests, it was once a small but vibrant Newar city before it lost its prominence as the trade.

Nagarkot:

Nagarkot is a famous hill station which is 32 km from the eastern side of Kathmandu Valley. It is situated at an altitude of 2170m, and it offers great views of the eastern Himalayan range, Gauri Shanker, Langtang, Jugal Himal, etc.

The sunset and sunrise view of the great Himalayan range is stunning, and the great views of the green valleys, lower hills villages, farming lands, and terraces are seen in 360-degree views which is just impressive.

Day Hiking:

Morning we pick up you from your hotel at 8:00 AM, then drive to Sankhu which is approximately 1 hours drive from Kathmandu Valley. Once get off, we will visit this newari city with Salinadi and Bajra Yogini Temple, the local newari town then continue our walking to the eastern all along the way traversing many patches of jungles, uphill trails through scattered local/mountain villages and farmlands to Nagarkot, this hike would mostly take a minimum of 3 and a half to 4 hours.

Afternoon, Lunch at Nagarkot, then visit the Nagarkot Tower, from here, one can see the breath-taking views of the major Himalayan peaks of Nepal like Manaslu, Ganesh, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, sisa pragma, Choyu, Gauri Shankar, etc. On a clear crystal day, one can even see the tip of Mt. Everest (8848 m) range.

An evening with sunset views of the great Himalayan range then will drive back to Kathmandu in the evening.

The option of good hotels in Nagarkot for overnight is very much available, and among them, Hotel Club Himalaya, Fort Resort, Country Villa, and View Point are the comfort hotels at this hilltop for a relaxing overnight.

History and Nature: Nagarkot and Bhaktapur Trip Highlights

• See the Himalayas at sunrise from Nagarkot which offers panoramic views of the mountain ranges.
• Explore the treasures within World Heritage-listed Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the heart of the ancient city that showcases the exquisite Newari craftsmanship and culture.
• Learn about the architecture of Nyatapole Temple, Dattatreya Temple, and 55 Window Palace, some of the most impressive monuments in Bhaktapur that reflect the religious and royal history of the city.
• Visit Sankhu and Changu Narayan Temple, two other historical and cultural attractions near Nagarkot that date back to centuries ago.

If you’re new to trekking, it’s better to choose an itinerary with more days. Adding an extra day will help you enjoy the journey without getting too tired and missing out on the experience.

For more information about Annapurna Base Camp or if you are interested in other trips, Visit Acces Nepal Tours and choose your dream package.