Shivapuri National Park hike

Overview of Shivapuri National Park hike

Nestled just north of Nepal’s bustling capital, Kathmandu, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a pristine sanctuary of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and serene landscapes. Spanning 159 square kilometers, this protected area is the second-highest park in the Kathmandu Valley and serves as a vital watershed, feeding the sacred Bagmati and Bishnumati rivers. Established in 2002, the park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 500 animal species, including leopards, Himalayan black bears, and barking deer, as well as 300 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The park’s lush forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, dotted with vibrant orchids and medicinal herbs, create a tranquil escape from urban life.

This one-day hike package is designed for adventurers seeking a perfect blend of physical challenge, cultural exploration, and breathtaking scenery. Starting from the iconic Budhanilkantha Temple, the trail ascends through verdant forests to significant landmarks like Nagi Gumba, a serene Buddhist nunnery, and Baghdwar, the sacred source of the Bagmati River. The journey culminates at Shivapuri Hill (2,732m), the second-highest peak in the valley, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu ranges on clear days. With a moderate difficulty level, this hike is accessible to beginners with reasonable fitness, yet it rewards seasoned trekkers with its diverse flora, fauna, and cultural insights.

Why Shivapuri National Park

Shivapuri national park is a hidden gem for several reasons:

Proximity to Kathmandu: Located just around 10 kilometers from the heart of the city, it is an ideal destination for those who seek a quick hike near Kathmandu or for those want to prepare for a more demanding trek.

Rich biodiversity: The national park is home to more than 300 bird species, 102 butterfly varies and various wildlife such as leopard, monkeys and beer.

Himalayan vista: Stunning 360-degree views from Shivapuri Peak, showcasing snow-capped peaks and the Kathmandu Valley.

Itinerary

7 am – Your day begins with a private vehicle picking you up from your hotel.

7.30am – Arrive at Shivapuri National park entrance and start the hike: After a short 5–10 minute drive from Budhanilkantha, reach the park’s army checkpoint. Your guide will handle entry permits

10.30am – Nagi Gompa (2,340m): After around 1.5-2 hours, we reach Nangi Gompa, a serene Buddhist nunnery. We spend 10-15 minutes appreciating the scenery and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

11.30am – Baghdwar: After hiking for another 1-1.5 hours, we reach the sacred source of the Bagmati River which is marked by a tiger-shaped stone spout. The site offers the ideal place for a short rest.

12.30pm – Reach Shivapuri peak: After ascending for another hour or so, we reach Shivapuri peak which stands at an elevation of 2,732 meters. Once there we get to enjoy panoramic views of mountains such as Langtang, Ganesh, Jugal and Manaslu ranges on a clear day. The views are complemented by a birds-eye view of the Kathmandu valley. We enjoy our packed lunch while enjoying the scenery.