Trekking
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park: Kathmandu's Best Day Hike
Shivapuri peak (2,732m) is Kathmandu's nearest significant hill summit — a 5–6 hour return day hike through dense forest with mountain views from a viewpoint above the valley rim.
Shivapuri National Park borders Kathmandu to the north and offers the closest wilderness day hiking in the Kathmandu Valley. The summit at 2,732m provides a surprise viewpoint overlooking the entire valley.
Overview
- Duration: 5–6 hours return
- Max altitude: 2,732m
- Difficulty: Moderate — significant elevation gain from the valley rim
- Start: Budhanilkantha (20 minutes from Kathmandu)
Best Time to Visit
October–March for clear mountain views. Avoid July–August monsoon — the forest path becomes slippery and leeches are active.
Key Highlights
Dense subtropical to temperate forest with excellent birding. The summit viewpoint looks across the full Kathmandu Valley. The trail passes Nagi Gompa monastery — a Tibetan Buddhist nunnery.
Getting There
Book a Sajilo cab from Kathmandu to Budhanilkantha entry gate (NPR 400–600, 20 minutes). Return the same way.
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Practical Tips
Park entry: NPR 500. Carry 2 litres of water — no vendors inside the park above the gate. Start by 7am to avoid afternoon heat.
FAQ
Is a guide needed for Shivapuri? No — the main trail is obvious and well-signed.
Are there wildlife encounters? Leopards inhabit the park but human encounters are extremely rare. Monkeys and deer are commonly seen.
Can I camp in Shivapuri National Park? Camping is not permitted without prior authorization from park management.
