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The Shivapuri Day Hike, located just north of Kathmandu, is a great way to enjoy nature, culture, and outdoor adventure, all in one day. This hike takes you into the peaceful Shivapuri National Park, a protected area known for its rich wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
As you walk through the lush forest of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, you’ll pass by religious monuments, adding some cultural flavor to the trip. Even though there are no villages on the trail, you’ll be surrounded by nature at its best. At Shivapuri Peak—the second-highest hill near Kathmandu at 2,732 meters (8,963 feet)—you’ll get stunning views of the Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Langtang mountains.
The hike takes you through thick forests filled with blooming flowers, including rhododendrons, Nepal’s national flower. Along the way, you’ll also visit Nagi Gumba, a monastery for female monks, and might spot Himalayan Langur monkeys, deer, and colorful birds, making this hike exciting for nature lovers.
The trek starts from Budhanilakantha, about a 30-minute drive from the city. The hike usually takes 6-7 hours, with 4 hours spent reaching the peak and returning. You can either hike back the same way or take an alternate route for a scenic loop. On the way, you’ll also pass Baghdwar, the holy source of the Bagmati River, adding a touch of spirituality to your journey.
The day begins with a 6:30 AM hotel pick-up in Kathmandu and a 30–40-minute drive to Budhanilkantha (1,600 meters), where you’ll visit the sacred Sleeping Vishnu statue and receive a briefing about the hike. The trek starts in Shivapuri National Park, winding through serene forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine, with opportunities to spot wildlife. A moderate climb leads to Nagi Gumba (1,730 meters), a peaceful Buddhist monastery offering stunning views and a chance to rest.
The trail becomes steeper as you ascend to Shivapuri Peak (2,732 meters), the highest point of the hike, where you’ll enjoy lunch and panoramic views of the Langtang Himalayas, Ganesh Himal, and Kathmandu Valley. The descent includes an optional visit to Baghdwar, the source of the Bagmati River, before reaching Budhanilkantha for your return drive to Kathmandu, ending with a hotel drop-off.
In addition to making trekking more enjoyable, having the appropriate gear guarantees your safety and readiness for a range of situations. Regardless of skill level, every hiker has to invest in high-quality equipment and understand how to utilize it properly. A delightful journey can differ from a difficult ordeal depending on the level of planning and equipment used. Please make your selections of the necessary equipment from the list below.
A well-liked hiking path close to Kathmandu, the Shivapuri Day Hike combines stunning scenery, cultural encounters, and unspoiled nature. Usually, it takes a whole day to finish.
The duration of the trip is roughly 6–7 hours, and depending on the exact path chosen, it can cover a distance of 12–15 kilometers.
The Shivapuri Day Hike is rated as having a moderate difficulty level. Although there are some difficult climbs and descents, most persons with a moderate level of fitness can handle it.
The best time to go for the Shivapuri Day Hike is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is generally clear and pleasant.
Indeed, a permit is required to visit Shivapuri National Park. At the park entrance, permits are available.
Usually, the climb begins in Budhanilkantha, which is located roughly ten kilometers to the north of Kathmandu. You can take public transportation or a cab to get there.
Even though the Shivapuri Day Hike is usually safe, it's a good idea to hike in a group or with a partner, particularly if you're not familiar with the terrain. Make sure someone is aware of your plans and planned return time if you decide to trek alone.
If you have any more specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
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