Shivapuri Day Hiking

Overview

The Shivapuri Day Hiking is a rejuvenating 1-day trek in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, just a 45-minute drive from Kathmandu, offering stunning Himalayan views, rich biodiversity, and cultural immersion. As the second-highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley, Shivapuri Peak (2,750m) provides a perfect vantage point for panoramic vistas of the Langtang Himalayan range, including peaks like Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), and Gaurishankar (7,134m), with Mount Everest occasionally visible on clear days. This trek is ideal for beginners, families, and travelers with limited time, seeking a quick escape into nature without venturing far from the capital.

Starting from Muhan Pokhari near the sacred Budhanilkantha Temple, the trail winds through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, home to over 500 plant species, 300 bird species (e.g., Himalayan Monal), and wildlife like red pandas and Himalayan black bears. Key highlights include Nagi Gompa, a serene Buddhist monastery housing hundreds of monks and nuns, and Baghdwar, the source of the holy Bagmati River, which flows past Pashupatinath Temple. The trek offers cultural interactions with Tamang communities and a glimpse into local conservation efforts, as the park is a vital water source for Kathmandu.

This moderate trek involves 7-8 hours of hiking, with a challenging ascent featuring numerous stone stairs to the peak, covering a 1,450m elevation gain. It’s suitable for those with basic fitness, though the steep sections require stamina. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best seasons for clear skies and vibrant flora, while winter offers crisp views but colder temperatures, and monsoon season brings slippery trails and leeches. Tea house facilities are unavailable en route, so trekkers must carry water (2 liters recommended) and snacks. Hairy Yak Adventures provides government-licensed guides, private transport, and permits (Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park: NPR 1,000/$8 for foreigners). We recommend avoiding busy weekends (Friday-Saturday) for a peaceful experience and urge trekkers to avoid littering to preserve the park’s pristine environment. This trek is a perfect blend of nature, spirituality, and Himalayan splendor, accessible from Kathmandu.

Cost Includes

• Private vehicle transport (hotel pickup in Kathmandu to Muhan Pokhari and return).
• Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry permit (NPR 1,000/$8 for foreigners).
• Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide.
• One bottle of drinking water per person (additional water to be carried by trekkers).
• Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter and emergency arrangements.
• All program activities as per the itinerary.

Cost Excludes

• Meals or snacks during the hike (trekkers must carry their own).
• Personal hiking equipment and clothing (e.g., rain cover, umbrella, sturdy shoes).
• Personal expenses (e.g., tips, souvenirs).
• Travel insurance (mandatory, must cover emergency evacuation).
• Any donations or additional monument entry fees (e.g., Budhanilkantha Temple).
• Costs due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather delays, illness).