Shivapuri day hike

Shivapuri Day Hike Peak Details

Location: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, on the northern part of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.

Starting Point: Budhanilkantha, about 10 kilometers from Kathmandu city center. Hikers will encounter a holy Hindu pilgrimage site featuring a statue of Lord Vishnu lying horizontally along a roll of snakes.

Elevation: Shivapuri Peak stands at 2,732 meters (8,963 feet).

Duration:  6-7 hours for a round trip, depending on your pace and starting point.

Trail: The trail is well-marked and passes through dense forests, streams, and small villages.

Difficulty: Moderate accessible for most hikers. Required a reasonable level of fitness due to the elevation gain and some steep sections.

Shivapuri Day Hike Peak Tour

Experience an unforgettable adventure with the Shivapuri day hike. Exploring the renowned Shivapuri day hike Peak located within the northwest of Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu. Standing tall at 2,732 meters (8,963 feet). Shivapuri day hike Peak  offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu valley and the majestic mountains that surround it.

The Shivapuri day hike trail presents an exciting and moderately challenging trek that spans approximately 6-7 hours, weaving through lush forests, streaming waterfalls, and charming villages. This unique journey allows you to immerse yourself in Nepal’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. For a safe and enjoyable trek, it is highly recommended to join a guided tour or hire an experienced guide, especially as some sections of the trail can be steep and demanding.

Drive distance for Shivapuri day hike

Your memorable Shivapuri day hike experience begins with a picturesque drive to Nagi Gompa, approximately 13.4 kilometers from Thamel. Followed by a captivating three-hours day hike to reach the summit, where the admired Shivapuri Baba Temple awaits.

Starting the hike at Budhanilkantha, an entry point into Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Followed by a captivating three-hours day hike to reach the summit, where the admired Shivapuri Baba Temple awaits.

Encompassing a diversified area of 159 km², Shivapuri National Park treats visitors to diverse landscapes with oaks, rhododendrons, pines, moss, and a variety of grasses. These all are safeguarded under the protection of His Majesty’s Government of Nepal. The park’s wilderness also provides a habitat for numerous wild animals, including wild boars, tigers, monkeys, deer, and an array of captivating bird species.

Ascend to Shivapuri Day Hike Peak

As you ascend to Shivapuri day hike peak, be prepared to be enthralled by the mesmerizing views of the Langtang range and the  Kathmandu Valley. On clear days, peaks such as Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang range, Dorje Lapka, Sisapangba, Mt. Everest, and Annapurna range are captured.

Your trek commences with a 2.3km uphill walk in a north-easterly direction from Budhanilkantha, where the bus will drop you off. Along the trail, local tea shops offer light snacks and tea, providing a quick respite during the journey. For park entry, foreigners will need to pay approximately Rs 500 ($5 USD), while Nepalese nationals will be charged Rs 50 ($0.05).

The initial stretch of the hike takes you along dusty roads within the national park, setting the stage for the adventure that lies ahead. As you ascend northeast, the landscape transforms, leading you to the serene Nagi Gumba, enveloped in a trail lined with trees. The fluttering prayer flags and warm presence of nuns make this a tranquil spot to appreciate the valley views. A brief break at the monastery’s tea shop offers a perfect opportunity to savor a cup of tea or coffee.

The subsequent section of the hike involves a vertical ascent to Bhagdwar and, ultimately, to the summit of Shivapuri Peak. The trail starts from the rear of the monastery, guiding you along stone steps heading north. Although the path is relatively straightforward, the stone steps can be physically demanding. However, the reward is worth it as you approach the brilliance of Shivapuri Peak, just 900 meters away from Nagi Gumba.

Highlights of Shivapuri Hike

1. Natural Beauty: The hike offers lush greenery, dense forests, and a variety of flora and fauna. Rhododendron forests are particularly stunning in spring.
2. Wildlife: The park is home to various species of birds, butterflies, and mammals. It’s a great spot for bird-watching.
3. Views: From the peak, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, the Himalayan ranges, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa.
4. Buddhist Monasteries: Along the trail, you might come across several small monasteries and stupas, adding a spiritual element to the hike.
5. Shivapuri Peak: The peak itself provides a serene spot to relax and take in the surroundings.
6. Baghdwar: A small stream that is the origin of the Bagmati River, considered sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Importance for Preservation

1. Biodiversity Conservation: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is rich in biodiversity. Preserving this area helps protect numerous species of plants and animals, some of which are rare and endangered.
2. Water Source: The park is a crucial watershed area for the Kathmandu Valley, supplying water to the valley’s residents.
3. Cultural Heritage: The area is dotted with cultural and religious sites that are important to local communities. Preservation helps maintain these cultural heritages.
4. Tourism and Education: The park serves as an important location for ecotourism and environmental education. It provides an opportunity for people to learn about nature and the importance of conservation.
5. Climate Regulation: The forested area plays a significant role in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Tips for Hikers

• Permits: On your Shivapuri day hike, obtain the necessary permit to enter the Shivapuri National Park, conveniently available at the park entrance.
• Preparation: Carry sufficient water, snacks, and wear appropriate day hiking gear.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles. Do not litter and respect wildlife.
• Local Guidance: Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience and to support the local economy. Remember that you cannot do a day hike inside Shivapuri National Park without an experienced guide because of the potentially hazardous wildlife.

Shivapuri National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife.

1. Wild Boars: You commonly find these large, omnivorous mammals in the park, and they are known for their robust and adaptable nature.
2. Tigers: Shivapuri National Park provides a habitat for majestic big cats, making it an essential conservation area for their survival, even though they are rare and elusive.
3. Monkeys: Different species of monkeys, langurs and rhesus macaques, commonly in the park, adding to the vibrant biodiversity.
4. Deer: You can see various deer species, including spotted deer and barking deer, grazing in the park’s grasslands and forests.
5. Birds: Birdwatchers find the park a haven, with a rich diversity of avian species, from colorful pheasants and vibrant parakeets to majestic eagles and hawks.
6. Himalayan Black Bears: Although you see them less commonly, these elusive bears inhabit the dense forests of the park.
7. Leopards: Leopards also reside in Shivapuri National Park but you rarely spot them due to their solitary and secretive nature.
8. Small Mammals: The park is home to various small mammals, including martens, civets, and porcupines, among others.
9. Reptiles and Amphibians: The park’s diverse ecosystems support various reptile and amphibian species, contributing to its rich biodiversity.
10. Butterflies and Insects: Shivapuri National Park is teeming with a wide variety of butterflies and insects, further enhancing its natural beauty.

list of Related day hike in Kathmandu

1. 1. Nagarkot sunrise view
   2. Nagarjun day hike
   3. Kakani hiking
   4. Kathmandu-trek
   5. Khaptad-national-park
   6. Chisapani-nagarkot-trek

 Important Note

To make the most of your Shivapuri hike experience, we offer a comprehensive hiking package. Where an expert guide and private vehicle (jeep) will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel in Kathmandu. The package includes breakfast at Nagi Gompa and the invigorating hike to Shivapuri Peak. Moreover, a delightful packed lunch along panoramic views at the summit, and a safe return to Nagi Gompa. The entire journey typically takes around 6-7 hours. Our experienced guides ensure your safety and make this hiking adventure within the heart of Nepal’s wilderness and charm. Join us on this incredible Shivapuri hike and discover the wonders that await.