Trekking · Kathmandu
Nagarkot to Changunarayan Hike
An easy, mostly downhill ridge walk from Nagarkot ending at Nepal's oldest temple, Changunarayan.
The Nagarkot to Changunarayan hike is the classic day walk off the eastern valley rim — a mostly downhill ramble that trades the mountain horizon for forest, terraced fields and a finish at one of Nepal's most important ancient temples. It is the natural thing to do after a Nagarkot sunrise, while the air is still cool, and one of the gentlest routes in our eastern valley rim hikes collection.
The short answer
Walk downhill from the Nagarkot ridge to Changunarayan temple — about 12 to 14 kilometres over four to five hours at an easy pace. It is beginner-friendly, with only short uphill stretches, and ends at a UNESCO-listed temple from where transport runs on to Bhaktapur and Kathmandu, so you never have to climb back up.
The route
From the ridge at Nagarkot (around 2,175 m) the trail drops through pine forest and farming hamlets, with the Himalaya behind you for the first stretch and the green Kathmandu Valley opening ahead. The path is well established and easy to follow, passing villages where you can pause for tea. The final approach climbs gently to the temple hilltop at Changunarayan (around 1,540 m).
Changunarayan temple
The walk ends at Changunarayan, often described as the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, with origins reaching back to the 4th century. Dedicated to Vishnu and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is celebrated for its centuries-old stone and metal sculpture, including a famous stone inscription of the Licchavi king Mandeva. Allow time to wander the small living-traditions museum and the temple courtyard before moving on.
Good to know
- Start early, just after sunrise, while it is cool and the views are sharp.
- Wear proper shoes and carry water; shade and shops thin out between villages.
- Carry cash for tea stops and the Changunarayan entry fee.
- Arrange your onward transport in advance, or plan to continue into Dhulikhel or Bhaktapur afterward.
Combine it
This is the obvious first leg of a longer day. From the temple you can keep walking on the Changunarayan to Sankhu hike to another medieval Newar town, or compare a quieter Kavre-side descent such as the Nala to Bhagwati hike. To do the climb the other way and earn the sunrise, see the Telkot to Nagarkot hike. For more options across the region, browse the national guide to the best day hikes near Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Nagarkot to Changunarayan hike?+
It is roughly 12 to 14 kilometres and takes about four to five hours at an easy pace. Because it is mostly downhill, it feels gentle, but allow extra time to enjoy the views and to explore the temple complex at the end.
Is the Nagarkot to Changunarayan hike hard?+
No, it is one of the easier day hikes near Kathmandu. The trail descends from the Nagarkot ridge through forest and farming villages with only short uphill sections, so it suits most fitness levels with decent shoes and water.
What is Changunarayan temple?+
Changunarayan is widely considered the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Vishnu and dating in part to the 4th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in ancient stone and metal sculpture, and a fitting end point for the walk.
How do you get back after the Changunarayan hike?+
From Changunarayan it is a short drive or local bus down to Bhaktapur, and on to Kathmandu from there. Many walkers arrange a taxi to meet them, or continue into Bhaktapur's old town for the afternoon.
