Shivapuri Hiking is a walk along the Shivapuri National Park along with an immersing trail filled with breathtaking views. The calm and cool forests of Shivapuri shelters about 500 species of animals and birds in its vicinity. As such, hiking along these trails allow you to enjoy the natural biodiversity. The top of the Shivapuri Hill provides a chance to view the beautiful Langtang, Ganesh, and Jugal mountain ranges from up close.
The trip starts with a short drive from Kathmandu to Budhanikantha. Your trek kicks off from the holy shrine of Budhanikantha which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, a place of great importance for Hindu pilgrims. A short hike away from the holy shrine lays the Nagi Gumba surrounded by other Buddhist shrines. Further along the Shivapuri hiking trail, you enter the Shivapuri National Park, which is the closest protected area to Kathmandu. You will get to enjoy a mesmerizing array of flora and fauna on the hike. In the rhododendron, pine, and oak forests, the hiking trails are home to wildlife like the leopard, Himalayan goral, barking deer, and rhesus monkey. The highest point of the trail gives you a surreal view of the marvelous Langtang range from up close. You can relax as you enjoy the natural beauty surrounding landscapes the Shivapuri hill. As you hike down the trails after exploring the higher mountains you will once again come across many stupas and Gumbas. You will also come across the source of Bagmati River, Bagdwar. The best season to travel the forests of Shivapuri is autumn (March-May) or spring (September – November) because of less chance of adverse climates and dry and warm weather.
We, at Miteri Nepal, assure you of a safe journey along with excellent services to complement the trips. We have an expert team of skilled manpower including guides, porters, and Sherpas. Moreover, you also have the option to modify the trip itinerary as per your preferences.
It is a 30-minute drive from Kathmandu to Budhanikantha. Here, you can explore the holy shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and further take an hour-long drive to Nagi Gumba from where your hike starts. The hike is about 4 to 5 hours long and you can enjoy the beautiful surrounding as you hike further along the trail. Enjoy the gorgeous mountains in the Langtang and Ganesh ranges at the top of the Shivapuri hill. Your hike back to Nagi Gumba will take you again about 3 to 4 hours. Later, you return to Kathmandu and enjoy the evening.
Starting Point: Budhanikantha / Nagi Gumba
Ending Point: Nagi Gumba / Kathmandu
Trek Duration: 1 Day (4–5 hours hike up, 3–4 hours back)
Maximum Altitude: 2732 m (Shivapuri Peak)
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: March–May & September–November
Trek Type: Nature & Cultural Trail
Accommodation: Not required (day hike)
Transportation: Private vehicle / Tourist bus from Kathmandu
Languages Spoken by Guides: English, Nepali
Health & Safety: First aid kit available; basic medical support on the trail
Permits Required: Entry fee for Shivapuri National Park (included)
Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs at temples and Gumbas
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