Shivapuri Day Hiking

Shivapuri Day Hiking is a popular day trip for hikers and nature lovers who want to enjoy the beauty of Shivapuri National Park, located in the north of Kathmandu. The hiking trail takes you through dense forests, past waterfalls, and up to a stunning viewpoint with panoramic views of the Himalayas. The hike is considered moderate and takes around 6-7 hours to complete, depending on the pace. Along the way, you will encounter a wide variety of flora and fauna, including langur monkeys, deer, and various bird species. The hike is a perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.

The Shivapuri hill is situated at an altitude of 2,732 meters, making it the second-highest hill surrounding the Kathmandu valley. The area is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including more than 300 species of birds, deer, monkeys, and leopards.

The hiking trail begins from Budhanilkantha, a famous Hindu temple located on the northern outskirts of Kathmandu. The trail goes through a lush green forest, and along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the valley, the mountains, and the surrounding villages. The hike is moderate and takes about 5-6 hours to reach the top of Shivapuri hill, depending on your pace and fitness level.

At the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges, as well as the Kathmandu valley. You can take a break, enjoy some snacks, and take in the stunning scenery before heading back down.

Outline itinerary:

7:00 AM: Pick up from hotel in Kathmandu and drive to Shivapuri National Park
8:00 AM: Start hiking from the entrance of Shivapuri National Park
10:00 AM: Reach Nagi Gompa, a Buddhist monastery, and take a short break to explore the area
11:00 AM: Continue hiking to the summit of Shivapuri Hill (2,732 meters) and enjoy the panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and surrounding mountains
12:00 PM: Have a packed lunch at the summit and take some time to rest and take photos
1:00 PM: Descend from the summit and stop at Bagdwar, a source of the Bagmati River, to witness the significance of the site for Hindu pilgrims
2:00 PM: Continue the hike down to Budhanilkantha, a sacred Hindu site featuring a 5-meter long statue of the sleeping Vishnu, and explore the area
3:00 PM: Drive back to the hotel in Kathmandu
4:00 PM: Arrive at the hotel and end of the trip