The short answer
Choose Nagarkot for a ridge, a hotel terrace and sunrise. Choose Dhulikhel if you want a living Newar town, quieter streets and day trips to Namobuddha and Panauti.
Key facts
- Nagarkot
- About 32 km east of Kathmandu; resort feel
- Dhulikhel
- About 30 km east; town feel
- Either
- One night is enough
How it works
- Choose Nagarkot for the showA ridge at about 2,175 m with hotel terraces facing a long line of Himalayan peaks. Sunrise is the point.
- Choose Dhulikhel for the townAt about 1,550 m, with a Newar bazaar, a kali temple viewpoint and the roads to Namobuddha and Panauti.
- Match to your paceNagarkot is an overnight view; Dhulikhel is a base for two nights if you like to walk.
Insider tip
Nagarkot is a view you visit. Dhulikhel is a place you walk.
Avoid this
Do not go for the Himalaya alone and expect a promise. Hazy days exist.
Related questions
Which is closer?
Both are 30 to 35 km from Kathmandu, about 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
Can I do both?
Yes, by walking or driving the ridge in a day, but it is a long one.
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