32 km from kathmandu and one hour 30 mins drive, altitude: 2,195 m – this is one of the most scenic spots in bhaktapur district and is famous for spectacular sunrise view of the himalaya on clear days. visitors generally stay for one night to see beautiful sunrise. on clear sunny days, visitors can enjoy the grand view of mighty himalayas. the nagarkot view tower is a magnet for nature lovers who reach there to capture the scenes of rising sun in the morning and when it is setting in the evening. the surrounding countryside of nagarkot is great for walking. on the way to nagarkot, you can stop at:

• changu narayan: located around 22 kms from kathmandu and 60 mins to 75 minutes drive, dedicated to lord vishnu, changunaryan which sits on the hillock called changu is one of the best examples of pagoda style architecture that was built during the lichhavi era. this two storied temple is an excellent example of wood, metal and stone sculptures and carvings and visitors can see series of carvings depicting 10 incarnations of lord vishnu. it is world heritage site and is often described as the most ancient temple in kathmandu valley which is still in use. garuda, half-man and half-bird is the vehicle of the lord vishnu. a life size stone statue of garuda kneels in front of the west face of the temple. only hindus are allowed to enter. non hindus can still enter the courtyard to view the ornate wood and stone work around the outside. it offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside as well as the himalayas on a clear sunny day and is a famous day hike. it is about 8 km northward from bhaktapur on the way to nagarkot. the temple is in a large courtyard amongst a small village of newar houses. the temple got damaged in the earthquake and restoration is in process.