Shivapuri Hike is one of the most accessible and rewarding day hiking adventures in Kathmandu. Located just a short drive north of the capital, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a peaceful oasis filled with natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural landmarks. This hike is ideal for both local adventurers and international tourists seeking a refreshing break from city life.
Rising to an altitude of 2,732 meters, Shivapuri Hill is the second-highest peak surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. The trail begins from Budhanilkantha, home to the sacred temple of the sleeping Vishnu, and offers multiple routes of varying difficulty levels. The most popular route is the one leading to the Shivapuri Peak through Nagi Gumba, a serene Buddhist monastery nestled in the forested hills. The monastery is open to visitors and offers a peaceful stopover for spiritual reflection amid chanting monks and fluttering prayer flags.
As you ascend, the trail weaves through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. This rich biodiversity is protected within the national park, which also serves as a crucial watershed providing drinking water to Kathmandu. Hikers can often spot various species of birds, butterflies, monkeys, and occasionally even deer or leopards, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of the Shivapuri Hike is reaching the summit, which provides panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley below and the snow-capped Langtang Himalayan range in the distance. On clear days, hikers are rewarded with stunning vistas that make the climb truly worthwhile. The hike to the top usually takes 3–4 hours depending on your pace, and the descent takes about 2–2.5 hours.
Besides the natural beauty, the Shivapuri hike is also rich in cultural and spiritual significance. Several ancient shrines and hermitages can be found along the trail, including Baghdwar—the sacred source of the Bagmati River, which is holy to Hindus. Many pilgrims make this journey annually for spiritual purposes, particularly during important festivals.
The hike is moderately challenging, with well-marked trails and stone steps in steeper sections. It is suitable for anyone with a basic level of fitness. Since it is within a national park, an entry fee is required, and visitors must register at the army check post at the park entrance.
