Important Information

Region
Hiking in and around Kathmandu Valley
Duration
1 Day
Max Altitude
2175 m
Best Season
All Season
Activity Per Day
7- 8
Grade
Level 1
Group Size
2 – 12 people
Transportation
Car, Jeep, Eco Van, Bus

A day away from the hurly-burly of the city and to the peaceful and slow life of a small settlement is what most people need. That's why a day hike from Sankhu to Nagarkot is a perfect selection which is a great combination of natural beauty and ancient culture and tradition. The Sanku is a famous Newari town and also one of the municipalities of Kathmandu valley, which is also known as Sankarapur Municipality. The term “ Sankhu” or “Sankhar” means “Conch shell”, which was named since the town looks like a Conch in shape. Even today, in Sankhu many cultural and traditional rituals are celebrated openly and one gets to witness famous Jatra of Newari’s. This town is the home to the famous Bajrayogini Temple and the Swasthani Temple and has five entrances to it. 

Nagarkot is a famous hilltop located at the eastern part of Kathmandu. It is believed that during clear weather, 8 himalayan ranges of Nepal out of 13 are visible from Nagarkot, naming the Annapurna Range, Ganesh Himal Range, Manaslu Range, Langtang Range,  Jugal Range, the Rolwaling Range, the Numur Range and the Mahalangur Range (Everst). Nagarkot was once a fort protecting the valley against the outsiders. A day hike to this place will not only help to refresh your mind and body  but also will give you a chance to witness the long-established custom of the locals. 

Routes of Sankhu to Nagarkot:

Today, you will have a long yet the most amazing day. You will begin your day at 7 am where you will be picked from your hotel and will drive straight to Sankhu. There you can have your breakfast or you can have it in your hotel before pickup. After that you will start your hike to Nagarkot.You will pass through Newari settlements where the houses are designed with wooden windows and the walls are clay coated. The initial climb will take you to terraced farmlands where depending on the season you’ll get to see paddies, wheat, and corn fields. The trail is moderately steep with a well defined stone paved path and while walking there you will see many small shrines and chaityas where locals perform morning offering and prayers.

Following hours of walk, you will enter into dense rhododendron and pine forest, where the trails become much more relaxing. You will hear birds chirping along with the rattle and lisp of insects. There you will witness the prayer flags fluttering at intervals, adding color to the green landscape. Once you get to Nagarkot, you will get your first glimpse of himalayan range, there you will have your lunch. After lunch you will slowly walk toward the Nagarkot viewpoint, enjoying the view of the mountain massif and the calm environment. From the viewpoint, you will be surprised with the spectacular mountain vistas in all directions along with the thick pine forest below it. 

Your trip at a glance

1 day

  1. Day 1 Itinerary

    7:00 am: Pick up from hotel and drive to Sankhu (25 km/ 45min - 1 hour)

    8:00 am: Start hiking from Sankhu/Lapsiphedi to Nagarkot (3 hour)

    12:00 pm: Lunch Time 

    1:00 pm -4pm: Reach at the Nagarkot view point

    4:00 pm -5:00 pm: Enjoy sunset and stroll around 

    5:00 pm: Drive back to Kathmandu (32 km/1 hour 30 min)

     

What's included 3 items

  • Hiking Guide
  • Private Transportation
  • Entrance Fee

What's not included 2 items

  • Personal Expenses
  • Everything Not Mentioned in the Include Section

Useful Information

CHECKLISTS FOR SANKHU TO NAGARKOT  HIKE

  • Comfortable day hiking clothes (light layers, comfortable t-shirt, hiking pants or leggings, sun hat or cap, comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners, rain jacket or windbreaker)
  • Small daypack or backpack (20-30 liters capacity), water bottle or hydration pack (at least 1-2 liters), snacks and energy food (trail mix, energy bars, fruits)
  • Personal Items (sunscreen, sunglasses, basic first-aid supplies, any personal medications, insect repellent), camera or smartphone for photos, trekking poles (optional, but helpful for knee support on descents) 
  • Cash in Nepali Rupees for entrance fees, snacks, and emergencies (credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas)
  • Mobile phone (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators, then your cell phone will work in Nepal.)

Frequently asked questions

What to bring for the SankhuTo Nagarkot Hike?

For a proper and comfortable hike, ensure you have sturdy hiking shoes and comfortable clothing. Additionally, remember to carry energy bars, sunscreen, sunglasses, head coverings (insulating caps and brimmed caps designed to block sunlight), and more.

Which season is best for the Sankhu To Nagarkot Hike?

Almost all seasons are suitable for Which season is best for the Sankhu To Nagarkot hiking, except for the monsoon season. During this time, the hiking trails can become muddy and slippery. Additionally, since we will be hiking through the forest, there is a possibility of encountering leeches.

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