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Overview of Shivapuri Day Hiking
Shivapuri Day Hiking offers an ideal escape from Kathmandu, allowing hikers to explore the beauty of nature and enjoy stunning views of the Langtang Himalayan range. Situated in the Shivapuri National Park, this trail is not only a key water source for the Kathmandu Valley but also a sanctuary for a rich variety of flora and fauna. The park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with hundreds of bird species thriving in the area.
Shivapuri Hill, the second-highest peak in the Kathmandu Valley after Fulchowki, provides an exceptional vantage point to view the majestic Langtang Himalayan range. On clear days, you can spot several prominent peaks, including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lhakpa, and many others.
Trail Details and Highlights
The hike begins at Muhanpani, near the Budhanilkantha temple, and follows a scenic path to Nagi Gompa, a monastery where hundreds of monks reside and study. As you ascend towards the peak, you’ll pass Baghdwar, the source of the holy Bagmati River that flows by the famous Pashupatinath Temple.
At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of mountains like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, Ganjala Peak, Dorje Lhakpa, and Gaurishanker. The hike itself is moderately challenging, with a steep ascent and numerous stairs leading to the top.
A Full Day in Nature
Shivapuri Hike is a full-day journey through nature, offering a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. The route is entirely within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a protected area known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. Along the trail, you may encounter colorful blooming flowers, including Nepal’s national flower, the rhododendron, and may even spot wildlife like Himalayan Langurs (black-faced monkeys), deer, and other species.
Though the hike is not interrupted by local settlements, you’ll find religious monuments along the way, adding a spiritual touch to your experience.
The Hike Experience
The hike starts at Budhanilkantha, approximately 30 minutes from Kathmandu city center. The trail is about 6-7 hours of walking in total, with around four hours of ascent to reach the top. You have the option to return by the same route or take an alternative loop on the way back.
This hike serves as excellent practice for those planning more challenging treks in Nepal, making it a great training opportunity for trekkers. Regular hikers will find the route manageable, but beginners may find the ascent to the summit more strenuous.
Highlights of Shivapuri Day Hiking
The Shivapuri Day Hiking trail offers a remarkable experience with a variety of scenic and cultural highlights. Here are the key features you can expect to encounter during your hike:
Lush Forests & Water Stations: Explore large forests with waterfalls and vital water sources that supply the Kathmandu Valley.
Budhanilkantha Temple: Visit the historic and spiritual Budhanilkantha Temple, a significant pilgrimage site.
Nagi Monastery: Discover the serene Nagi Monastery, home to a community of monks dedicated to their studies and spiritual practices.
Shivapuri National Park: Enjoy a peaceful and invigorating walk through Shivapuri National Park, rich in natural beauty.
Majestic Himalayan Views: Experience breathtaking views of prominent peaks, including the Annapurna range, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Gaurishanker, and parts of the Rolwaling range.
Beautiful Forest Walks: Traverse through picturesque forests filled with vibrant rhododendron trees, especially during blooming seasons.
Scenic Route: Relish a pleasurable hiking experience with an invigorating blend of nature and tranquility.
Stunning Views from Shivapuri: Reach the summit of Shivapuri for spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range and the Kathmandu Valley.
Jungle Walks & Birdwatching: Engage in enjoyable jungle walks, with the opportunity for birdwatching in a diverse natural habitat.
Source of the Bagmati River: Visit Baghdwar, the origin of the holy Bagmati River, a revered waterway that flows through Pashupatinath Temple.
Big & Beautiful Monastery: Appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the large monastery along the trail.
Day 1:
Drive to Budhanilkhantha 1 hrs. and hike to the Shivapuri hill (2732m.) 6-7 hrs.
Maximum Altitude: (2732m)
Hike to Shivapuri
After breakfast at your hotel, we drive to Narayanthan, which takes about 30 minutes. At the army checkpoint, we will obtain our entrance tickets before hiking through Ani Gompa, where we can enjoy views of the Kathmandu Valley. We then enter the forest and begin our ascent on stone steps. After about an hour of hiking, we will reach Baghdwar, the starting point of the Bagmati River, where we’ll see Tibetan Buddhist flags.
Continuing our hike through the forest, we head towards the summit. Along the way, we’ll enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range and pass a small Sadhu cottage. After reaching the top, we’ll retrace our steps back to the starting point and drive back to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Early Morning Departure:
Our guide will pick you up from the hotel in the morning (you can mention your preferred time, though we recommend an early start for clearer views from Shivapuri). After a 45-minute drive, we will arrive at Budhanilkantha Temple, where you’ll spend some time exploring. Afterward, the car will take us to Muhan Pokhari, where we will obtain the necessary permits before starting the hike.
Please bring water and some dry fruit or snacks, as there are no food stops on the trail. The hike begins with an easy walk to Nagi Gompa, followed by a steep climb on stone stairs. The total hike will take around 4 hours to reach the summit of Shivapuri, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas.
Hiking Routes to Shivapuri:
There are several popular routes to reach Shivapuri. Here are the main routes:
Budhanilkantha – Check Post – Nagi Monastery – Shivapuri
This is the most popular route, offering a relatively easy hike. While there are some stairs, the trail is gentler compared to other routes. You will pass Budhanilkantha Temple and Nagi Monastery, making it a more scenic and relaxed hike.
Budhanilkantha – Check Post – Shivapuri
This route is more challenging as it includes a steep climb with zigzag trails near the Nagi Monastery. Although it’s physically demanding, it is about 1 hour shorter than the first route.
Budhanilkantha – Danda Gaun – Bhanjyang
This route was once a highway before the construction of a new one. It’s a more relaxed walk with views of Kathmandu and the surrounding areas. You can see the mountains from Bhanjyang, but this route doesn’t go to the top of Shivapuri. It is longer than the other two routes.
Highest Altitude: (2735m)
Departure Time: 8:00 am
For this tour, all you need to bring is comfortable clothing, as no special equipment is required. However, depending on your preferences, the following list provides general guidance on personal items you may want to bring. The choice of equipment and backpack should depend on the season of travel.
We will provide complimentary water and a windproof duffel bag for your shopping purposes, which is yours to keep.
This list is merely a suggestion, and you can use it as a reference. There are many options, brands, and versions available for each item, so use your judgment and experience to select the best gear for you. Additionally, most of the required equipment can be easily found in Kathmandu stores.
The Nagarkot Changunarayan Day Hike is one of the most accessible and popular hikes around the Kathmandu Valley. It’s a perfect option for those with limited time in Kathmandu, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural exploration in just one day.
This hike can also serve as a trekking practice trip before embarking on longer treks, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek. If you’re short on time but still want to experience breathtaking views of the high mountains, the Nagarkot to Changunarayan Hike is an excellent alternative.
Whether you’re preparing for a longer trek or simply seeking a scenic day trip, this hike offers a perfect way to explore the wonders of Nepal in a short, accessible journey.