The Shivapuri Day Hiking Experience is an absolute must-do when visiting the Kathmandu Valley. This moderate-level hike will take you to the breathtaking Shivapuri ridge, which sits at an impressive elevation of 2,732 m (8,963 ft). Starting from Pani Muhan, you'll trek through dense forests, reaching the summit and then returning to the starting point. Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to explore Nagi Gomba, a serene nunnery monastery. Join our team of local experts and embark on this tranquil day hike, covering a distance of approximately 18 to 20 km.The Shivapuri hiking tour in Kathmandu Valley offers a breathtaking experience for nature enthusiasts. Located within the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, this tour takes you through a dense forest filled with a variety of plant species such as bamboo, Indian chestnut, fetterbush, bayberry, wild Himalayan pear, Himalayan cherry, Nepali hog plum, silver birch, and rhododendron. The park, which was established in 2002, covers a total area of 159 sq km, with Shivapuri occupying 144 sq km and Nagarjuna occupying 15 sq km.
Highlights:
- Experience a thrilling one-day adventure-level hiking tour in Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, located in Kathmandu.
- Immerse yourself in the dense forests of the park, where you can encounter a diverse range of birds, wild animals such as leopards, and vibrant flowering plants and grasslands.
- Marvel at the breathtaking snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Gaurishankar, and Number, as you hike through the park.
- Take in the panoramic views from the majestic Shivapuri Peak, offering a stunning vista of the surrounding landscapes.
- Explore the cultural and spiritual sites of Baghwar, the starting point of the Bagmati river, and Nagi Gomba, a serene nunnery gompa, adding a touch of tranquility to your adventure.
- Discover the wonders of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
- Experience the diverse and vibrant flora and fauna of the area
- Immerse yourself in the captivating world of birdwatching
- Marvel at the breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan ranges
- Embark on a thrilling hike through a dense forest to reach the summit of Shivapuri Peak at 2732m
- Explore the enchanting and remarkable Nunnery monastery
- Engage in a memorable adventure amidst the natural beauty of Shivapuri
- Encounter a wide variety of plant and animal species in their natural habitat
- Capture stunning photographs of the picturesque landscapes and wildlife
- Enjoy a peaceful and serene atmosphere while exploring this remarkable hiking destination.
The National Park is home to an impressive array of biodiversity, including 1250 species of vascular plants, 129 species of mushrooms, four types of forests, and 318 species of birds. Additionally, the park provides a sanctuary for 24 types of mammals, 9 threatened species of herpetofauna, and 106 species of moths and butterflies.
For nature lovers seeking a challenging uphill walk to burn calories, this hiking tour is the perfect choice. It allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu and immerse yourself in the fresh mountain air. The journey begins with a short drive to Budanilkhantha, where you will obtain the necessary National Park permit. From there, you will embark on a hike towards Shivapuri Peaks (2732m), navigating steep stone stairs and lush forests along the way.
During the hike, you will have the chance to observe a variety of pheasants, deer, and birds while also taking in breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Gaurishankar, and Number Mountain ranges. At the summit of Shivapuri Peak (2732m), you will come across the statue of Shivapuri Baba, a highly respected individual renowned for his meditation practices in the region. The hike covers a total distance of 20km and involves ascending and descending an elevation of 1330m, making it suitable for individuals with reasonable fitness levels. This hike is considered to be of moderate difficulty.
As the hike concludes, you will descend towards Baghdwar, the starting point of the Bagmati River, before making your way to Nagi Gompa. From there, you will be driven back to your hotel in Kathmandu with memories of a truly unforgettable hiking experience.
Shivapuri National Park Permits and Costs:
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, located near Katmandu City, is the nearest national park to the city. To embark on a hike or gain entry into the park, visitors are required to pay entrance fees. The fees vary depending on the category of visitors.
- For Nepali citizens, the entrance fee is NPR. 100.
- while SAARC citizens are required to pay NPR 600.
- Motorbike owners are charged NPR. 30.
- whereas minibus, bus, and truck owners need to pay NPR. 500.
- Car, Jeep, taxi, and van owners are charged NPR 300.
- while bike owners are required to pay NPR. 100.
- Foreigners visiting the park are subject to an entrance fee of NPR 1,000.
Shivapuri Hiking Cost:
Our Shivapuri Hiking Tour offers a comprehensive package that includes a professional guide, entrance fees, and transportation via private vehicle tailored to the size of the group. The pricing for the Shivapuri hiking experience is as follows:
- For solo hikers, the cost is USD 90 for a single-day hike.
- For groups of 2 to 6 people, the cost is USD 60 per person.
- For groups of 7 to 9 people, the cost is USD 50 per person.
- For larger groups of 10 to 20 individuals, the cost is USD 40 per person.
