The hike from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel and Namobuddha is a popular 3-day trek around Kathmandu. This hike offers a great opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of hills and mountain ranges, as well as Buddhist stupas and gumbas. The main attraction of this hike is the beautiful sunrise and sunset views.

Nagarkot is famous for its sunrise and sunset views and covers a distance of around 26km (17 miles) with a height of 2,175m. From Nagarkot, the trek leads to Dhulikhel, which is around 15-16 km away and offers beautiful views of green hills and cities.

From the top of Dhulikhel hill (7,134 m), one can see around 20 peaks including Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m) and many others. The hike passes through colorful dense forests and offers majestic views of the Himalayas surrounding the traditional village of Namobuddha. The hike to Namobuddha is very famous for all Buddhist pilgrims where the massive Monastery and Namo Buddha temple lie.

The environment around the gumba is very clean and has fresh air. The hike trails pass through quiet forests, which will make you feel good. You can also see many different kinds of birds on the trail. It is popular for its bird-watching tour and Himalayan views. Nearly 72 species of residents and migratory birds are found in the forests of Namobuddha. Some birds that can be found on the Namobuddha Hill are Long Tailed, Shrike, Variable Wheatear, Scarlet Minivet, Common Iora, Common Hoopoe, Steppe Eagle, and Asian Black, and White Way Tail.

Outline Information:

Starting Point: Kathmandu

Ending Point: Namobuddha to Kathmandu

Distance from Kathmandu to Nagarkot: 26km

Distance from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel: 15km

Distance from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha: 13km

Highest Elevation of Nagarkot: 2,175m

Highest Elevation of Dhulikhel: 1,550m

Highest Elevation of Namobuddha: 1,800m Grade: Easy

Why Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Namobuddha Hike?

Scenic Beauty

The trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even Mt. Everest on a clear day. The sunrise and sunset views from Nagarkot are particularly spectacular. 

Cultural Diversity

The hike allows you to explore the diverse cultures and traditions of Nepal. You'll encounter traditional villages, interact with locals, and witness daily rural life. 

Peace and Serenity

The route takes you through peaceful and tranquil landscapes far from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's an excellent escape to find inner peace and tranquility.

Namobuddha Monastery

The Namobuddha monastery is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It's a great place to explore and learn more about Nepal's heritage. 

Hiking Adventure

The trek offers a moderate level of challenge, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. It's a great opportunity to experience the joy of hiking in the Himalayan foothills. 

Birdwatching and Nature

The region is rich in birdlife and natural beauty. You might spot various bird species and wildlife as you trek through forests, terraced fields, and ridges. 

Nagarkot Dhulikhel Namobuddha Hiking Route

The Nagarkot Dhulikhel Namobuddha Hike typically starts from the Nagarkot, a hill station located about 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. You'll pass through small villages, observe the picturesque views of the Himalayas, terraced fields, and lush forests, and enjoy the serenity of the countryside. 

Dhulikhel is a charming Newari town known for its well-preserved architecture and panoramic mountain views. After exploring Dhulikhel, you can hike to Namobuddha passing through lush forests, and offer glimpses of traditional rural life. Namobuddha is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site known for its sacred stupa and monastery. It's a peaceful and spiritual place to visit. 

Scenery

The hike starts at Nagarkot, a popular hill station where you can witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas. You'll be able to see panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even a distant glimpse of Mt. Everest on a clear day. During the hike, you'll see the lush forests, terraced fields, and picturesque views of rolling hills and traditional Nepali villages. Dhulikhel is a charming town with a well-preserved Newari culture and architecture. The old town of Dhulikhel provides many photogenic spots with ancient temples and architecture.

Namobuddha is a sacred Buddhist site with a peaceful monastery and stunning surroundings. You can enjoy the serene ambiance and views of the lush green valleys. Throughout the hike, you'll experience the beauty of rural Nepal. You'll see terraced fields, traditional houses, and people going about their daily lives. The hike allows you to immerse yourself in the authentic culture and scenery of the Kathmandu Valley.