Shivapuri Hike – Complete Guide to the Best Day Hike Near Kathmandu, Nepal

Shivapuri Hike – The Perfect Nature Escape from Kathmandu

The Shivapuri Hike is one of the best day hikes near Kathmandu, offering an unforgettable experience through lush forests, peaceful monasteries, and breathtaking Himalayan viewpoints. Located inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, this hiking trail is ideal for travellers seeking nature, adventure, wildlife, and panoramic mountain scenery without travelling far from the capital.

Standing at an elevation of 2,732 metres (8,963 feet), Shivapuri Peak is the second-highest hill surrounding Kathmandu Valley. On a clear day, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar, and the entire Kathmandu Valley.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker, the Shivapuri Hike offers an excellent combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and moderate adventure.

Shivapuri Hike Overview
Details Information
Destination Shivapuri Peak
National Park Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Starting Point Budhanilkantha
Highest Altitude 2,732 metres
Hiking Distance 18–20 km (Round Trip)
Hiking Duration 6–8 Hours
Difficulty Moderate
Best Season Spring & Autumn
Suitable For Beginners, Families, Nature Lovers, Photographers
Why Choose the Shivapuri Hike?

The Shivapuri hiking trail is famous for its peaceful environment and rich biodiversity. As you climb through dense forests of pine, oak, bamboo, and rhododendron, you'll enjoy fresh mountain air, birdsong, and occasional wildlife sightings.

Highlights include:

Beautiful forest walking trails
Scenic Himalayan mountain views
Panoramic Kathmandu Valley viewpoints
Visit to the peaceful Nagi Gompa Buddhist Monastery
Baghdwar – the sacred source of the Bagmati River
Excellent birdwatching opportunities
Perfect photography locations
One of the best hiking destinations near Kathmandu

Unlike longer Himalayan treks, the Shivapuri Hike can be completed in a single day, making it an ideal adventure for visitors with limited time.

Shivapuri Hike Route

The most popular hiking route follows:

Budhanilkantha → National Park Entrance → Nagi Gompa → Baghdwar → Shivapuri Peak → Return via the same trail

Hiking Time
Budhanilkantha to Nagi Gompa: 1.5–2 Hours
Nagi Gompa to Baghdwar: 1 Hour
Baghdwar to Shivapuri Peak: 45–60 Minutes
Return Journey: 2.5–3 Hours

Total hiking time is approximately 6–8 hours depending on your pace.

Attractions Along the Trail
Budhanilkantha Temple

Your journey begins near the famous Budhanilkantha Temple, home to the magnificent reclining statue of Lord Vishnu. Many hikers visit the temple before starting their trek.

Nagi Gompa

Located deep inside the forest, Nagi Gompa is a peaceful Buddhist nunnery surrounded by pine trees. The monastery offers stunning views of Kathmandu Valley and is a wonderful place for meditation and relaxation.

Baghdwar

Baghdwar is believed to be the sacred source of the Bagmati River, one of Nepal's most important rivers. The water emerges naturally from a tiger-head stone spout, making it a significant pilgrimage site.

Shivapuri Peak

The summit is the highlight of the hike. From the top, visitors enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the entire Kathmandu Valley. During sunrise and winter mornings, the scenery becomes even more spectacular.

Best Time for Shivapuri Hike
Spring (March–May)

Spring is one of the best seasons for hiking. Rhododendron forests bloom with vibrant colours, temperatures are pleasant, and mountain visibility is excellent.

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn offers crystal-clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and the best Himalayan views after the monsoon season.

Winter (December–February)

Winter provides clear mountain views, although mornings can be cold. Warm clothing is recommended.

Monsoon (June–August)

The trail becomes slippery due to rainfall, and clouds often reduce visibility. Waterproof gear and proper hiking shoes are essential if visiting during this season.

Wildlife and Nature

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including:

Himalayan Black Bear
Leopard
Barking Deer
Wild Boar
Rhesus Monkey
Himalayan Langur
Over 300 species of birds
Butterflies and rare Himalayan plants

Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers will find plenty to enjoy throughout the hike.

Entry Fee

Approximate national park entrance fees:

Nepali Citizens – NPR 100
SAARC Nationals – NPR 600
Foreign Nationals – NPR 1,000

Fees are subject to change.

What to Pack
Comfortable hiking shoes
2 litres of drinking water
Energy snacks or packed lunch
Sunscreen
Hat and sunglasses
Rain jacket
Warm jacket (winter)
Camera
Trekking poles (optional)
Helpful Tips
Begin your hike early in the morning.
Carry enough drinking water.
Wear proper hiking footwear.
Respect wildlife and the environment.
Stay on marked trails.
Keep the national park clean by carrying out your rubbish.
How to Reach Shivapuri

The hike starts from Budhanilkantha, approximately 12 km north of Kathmandu city centre.

Visitors can reach the starting point by:

Taxi
Local Bus
Private Vehicle
Motorcycle
Organised Hiking Tour

The drive from Thamel usually takes around 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Shivapuri Hike suitable for beginners?

Yes. The trail is moderately challenging and suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness.

Can I complete the hike in one day?

Yes. Most visitors complete the round trip in 6–8 hours.

Is a guide necessary?

A guide is not compulsory, but hiring one can enrich your experience with insights into local culture, wildlife, and the national park.

Are food and drinks available on the trail?

There are very limited facilities inside the national park, so carrying sufficient water and snacks is highly recommended.

Book Your Shivapuri Hiking Adventure

Escape the busy streets of Kathmandu and experience one of Nepal's most beautiful day hikes. The Shivapuri Hike offers spectacular mountain views, peaceful forests, Buddhist heritage, and refreshing nature—all within easy reach of the capital.

Whether you are travelling solo, with friends, or with family, Shivapuri promises a memorable outdoor adventure that showcases the natural beauty of Nepal.