This day trip gives you the opportunity to see one of the best sunrises in the Himalayas and visit a hidden gem of the Kathmandu Valley.
Itinerary
The day starts with an early morning drive to the beautiful hill station, Nagarkot. On arrival we will be treated to the spectacular sight of the sun’s first rays appearing over the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, causing a surreal orange and yellow glow. It is fascinating to think that nestled between the highest mountains in the world are small villages and isolated monasteries, where the Nepalese and Tibetans have lived through hundreds of years.
The area around Nagarkot has a rich cultural heritage, so after breakfast, it’s time to explore the town and meet the residents of this impressive location. You will then be driven down to Telkot, where we get a chance to discover the area on foot. As we make our way gently up towards Changunarayan we will meet several of Nepal’s ethnic groups including Newar (the original occupants of the Kathmandu valley) and Chhetri, and learn about their cultures. We hear about village life, farming, and the laborious work required to maintain the impressive terraces that you can see on every hillside, getting a glimpse of life that is very different from what we have seen in Kathmandu.
This gentle hike takes us to Changunarayan Temple, situated on a ridge overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. One of the finest and oldest specimens of pagoda architecture, the temple is said to be the oldest pagoda-style temple in Nepal, built-in 323 A.D, and is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu – the Preserver. Your local guide will escort you around this ancient complex, which is one of the Kathmandu Valley’s 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the temple, you also get amazing views of farming land and villages at this end of the valley against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayan Range. After the visit, you will be driven back to Kathmandu or you could consider a stop or even an overnight in Bhaktapur.
Accommodation: None
Meals included:
Breakfast
Included In Price
Not Included In Price
An amazing 28 day adventure from Himalayan Trails, encompassing fantastic, beautiful scenery, diverse cultures and the wonderful friendly people of Nepal. Our bespoke trek from sunrise at Pikey Peak, a visit to Choling monastery (magic) Lukla, on to Gokyo where we had perfect views of Everest from Gokyo Ri and the less visited 5th Lake. Then back to Kathmandu via Renjo La, Namche, and an exciting flight from Lukla .After the trek, on Mads recommendation we went to Bardia National Park staying at quirky Racy Shade Resort. We saw tiger, one horned Rhinos, and lots of other wildlife on safari and rafting down the Karnali river. What a way to recoup from 20 days treking! At the beginning and end of our journey we were immmersed in the culture and unique ancient architecture of the old cities of the Kathmandu valley. An absolutely brilliant holiday- the guides, porters, tea houses, hotels, transfers, just flowed in that beautiful Nepalese way. Thoroughly recommend Himalayan Trails.
COLIN PATEMANFrom the outset Himalayan Trails were nothing but efficient helping us to plan exactly what we wanted from our trip. Amanda was quick to respond to any queries and provided lots of additional useful information to ensure we were well prepared in advance. The accommodation we had was full of character and in traditional Nepali style rather than anonymous chain hotels, every pick up or meeting happened on time, Amanda even managed to find us last minute accommodation when one of our guest houses had overbooked. Our trekking guide, Mindu, kept us safe, fed and watered and motivated when we needed it - his cheerful singing and whistling along with his infectious laugh kept us entertained for 4 days on the Muldai Trek. Our city guide, Subash, was always on hand to answer our endless questions and was great company painting pictures of the sights we visited with lots of stories. He soon joined in our teasing and banter (and gave as good as he got!). We had a fabulous trip but it was the people we met who made it so special.I struggled to say goodbye to both our guides but know we have made some new friends for life. We have fallen in love with Nepal and will definitely be back and will not hesitate to use Himalayan Trails again. Thank you everyone - you did an amazing job!
Cheryl RobinsPikey Peak hiking and Nargakot Mountain biking were such unforgettable experiences. Stunning scenery and beautiful people. Thanks again guys 5 stars straight up
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