Duration
1 Day
Shivapuri Day Hike
Trip Grade
Easy
Group Size
1-16 People
Max Altitude
2,563m. / 8,409ft.
Best Season
Mar-May/Sept- Nov
Activity
Hiking
Transportation
Private Vehicle
Trip Customization
On request (click here)
Highlights of Shivapuri Day Hike
- A quick getaway to the fresh mountain air near Kathmandu
- Peaceful trail hiking in green oak, pine and rhododendron forest within a national park.
- VisitBudhanilkantha Temple, the temple of a famous reclining Vishnu statue on a sacred pond.
- Visit Nagi Gumba monastery, a serene resting place of Buddhist nuns that has a spiritual atmosphere.
- Abundant opportunities to see the wildlife like monkeys, deer, exotic birds and colourful butterflies on the road.
- Himalayan mountain ranges of Langtang, Ganesh Himaland Kathmandu Valley, with panoramic views of the Shivapuri Peak.
Trip Introduction
Shivapuri Day Hike is one of the best hiking experiences in Kathmandu, is the which is very short and enjoyable. It suits the travellers who may wish to spend their day in nature but do not have to travel long distances out of the city. The hike is located on the northern side of the Kathmandu Valley, within the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a reserved forest renowned for its clean air, diverse vegetation, wildlife, and serene environment.
The Shivapuri Day Hike can be a perfect getaway to forget about the commotion of the streets and traffic, the rush and noise, and get a peaceful and revitalising experience within an hour of driving.Himalayan Adventure Treks will organise everything for you so that you can enjoy this hike to the fullest.
The natural beauty of Shivapuri Day Hike is also one of the key attractions. The road will go through thick forests of oak, pine and rhododendron trees. The hike is further made more beautiful with the bloom of colourful rhododendron flowers along the path during spring.
The national park also hosts numerous bird species, butterflies, and other creatures such as monkeys and deer, and thus, those who are nature lovers will be in a position to enjoy this hike. Due to the high biodiversity, Shivapuri Day Hike is particularly fruitful among the birdwatchers and photographers.
The hike is not just about nature but also nature culture, and spirituality. The path normally starts around Budhanilkantha Temple, one of the most significant Hindu temples in Nepal. Here we find one great 5-meter statue of Lord Vishnu reclining calmly in a pond of stone. It is a good place to begin the Shivapuri Day Hike since this is a holy place, and the trip has a more meaningful and spiritual atmosphere.
Further into the mountain, you will come to Nagi Gumba, a meditative monastery of Buddhist nuns. The peaceful environment with prayer flags and soft-sounding chants helps to create the atmosphere and make the hike special.
The Shivapuri Day Hike trail is properly maintained,with stone steps and clear paths, and is safe and comfortable even for beginners. This hike can be enjoyed by families, individual hikers and individuals who are moderately fit. It is not too steep, and one has time to get sufficient rest and have a time enjoying the scenery as one climbs. No prior experience of hiking is required to complete the Shivapuri Day Hike.
The reward of Shivapuri hill, which rises to approximately 2,732 meters (8,963 feet), is the reward of the wonderful views. When the sky is clear, you will see the snow-topped Himalayan peaks, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal and Dorje Lakpa. There is also a spectacular view of the Kathmandu Valley that is many miles below. This perspective is what is usually the most dramatic for the Shivapuri Day Hike.
In general, the Shivapuri Day Hike is an ideal combination of nature, culture and light adventure. The fact that it is very near Kathmandu, has tranquil trails and picturesque sceneries all make the place a perfect destination for a one-day outing. This hike is a very rewarding and refreshing exercise, whether one has limited time or just feels like taking a leisurely hike.
Outline Itinerary of Shivapuri Day Hike
Day 01: Shivapuri Day Hike – A Scenic and Spiritual Journey Near Kathmandu
Our guests sharing their experiences (Photo/Video Gallery)
Detail itinerary of Shivapuri Day Hike
01
Day 01: Shivapuri Day Hike – A Scenic and Spiritual Journey Near Kathmandu
Your Shivapuri Day Hike starts early in the morning and is comfortably collected from a hotel in Kathmandu. Making a short journey of about 30 minutes, towards the north side of the valley, you arrive at Budhanilkantha, a quiet spot at the foot of Shivapuri hill.
This is the place where the day begins on a spiritual note. You go to the well-knownBudhanilkantha Temple that contains a huge statue of Lord Vishnu resting on a bed of snakes located in the centre of a pond made of stone. This is a 7th-century statue that is among the most significant Hindu shrines in Nepal. You will find native worshippers praying, laying flowers and butter lamps. Although non-Hindus are not permitted into the inner pond area, the statue is visible, even outside the gate, where all people can enjoy its peaceful and spiritual ambience.
It is then followed by a brief uphill ride to the gateway of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park at an altitude of approximately 1500 meters (4921 feet) after passing through a few silent moments at the temple.
Your guide handles all the park permits, and the Shivapuri Day Hike officially starts. It begins with the steps of stone, which guideyou into a dense forest. The closer you go to nature, the less you hear in the city. The atmosphere becomes more chilled, and the air is purified with the music of birds. On the way, you will be able to spot monkeys leafing through the trees, colourful butterflies, and (with some luck) deer cowering in the bushes.
Midday
One to two hours of constant walking will bring you to Nagi Gumba, a serene Buddhist monastery that is situated on a hillside. This is an exclusive monastery since it is inhabited by Buddhist nuns only. The prayer flags are blowing in the wind, and the environment is calm and quiet.
This is an ideal corner to have a rest, have glimpses of Kathmandu Valley, and rejuvenate. Occasionally, you can hear some chanting, or nuns can be spotted doing their daily business, which can give your Shivapuri Day Hike a spiritual touch.
The trail, leaving Nagi Gumba, proceeds uphill and becomes a little steeper. The forest becomes remote and more distant as you ascend in altitude. In a little way, you reachBaghdwar, or Tiger Gate. This point is significant as it forms the origin of the Bagmati river which is a holy river flowing in Kathmandu. The spring is marked by a little stone spout in the form of the head of a tiger. Most of the hikers take a break here to rinse their faces in cold water and have a view of the serene environment.
The last ascent to the Shivapuri Peak is short but sharp afterBaghdwar. The most satisfying experience during the Shivapuri Day Hike is to reach the top at 2,732 meters (8,963 feet). During the clear days, it is possible to see beautiful Himalayan mountains, Langtang and Ganesh Himal, and a panoramic view of Kathmandu valley, which is located at the bottom. It is the ideal place to sit, make photographs and have your packed lunch or snacks.
Afternoon
When you have had a nice time on the peak, then you start going down. It is more comfortable to walk down the hill, and you see new things in the forest when the sun rays through the trees. It is mid-afternoon or late afternoon, and you get to the trailhead and find your car there. The refreshing and memorable Shivapuri Day Hike with nature, culture and peaceful moments ends with a short drive back to your Kathmandu hotel.
Activity: Hike, 7-8 hours
Max. Altitude: 2,563m/8,409ft. Shivapuri
Note:
If you have your own private group and want to make your trip private, we can run the custom trip all the day as per your requirements and group size.
Includes and Excludes
What are included with package?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off by private vehicle: You’ll be transported to and from your hotel in a private vehicle for convenience and comfort during your tour.
- National Park fee: This covers the entrance fee to the National Park, allowing you access to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.
- Professional guide and driver: A knowledgeable and experienced tour guide will accompany you throughout the tour, and a professional driver will handle transportation, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.
What are not included with package?
- Your personal expenses: Any additional costs such as phone calls, laundry, souvenirs, or extra services are not included in the tour price and will be the responsibility of the traveler.
- Meals and drinks: The cost of meals and beverages (unless specified) will not be included in the package and should be covered separately by the traveler.
Pick Your Suitable Date
US$ 100
Book a Private Trip
Private & Group Discount Price
-
1 -
1 person
US$ 150
-
2 -
2 people
US$ 100
-
3 -
5 people
US$ 90
-
6 -
10 people
US$ 80
-
11 + people
9999
US$ 70
1 Travelers x US $ 2000
Total Cost:
US$ 150
Route Map & Altitude Chart
Kathmandu Hotel
Start/End point
Kathmandu Hotel
Trip Information
Weather and Best Season
The weather is a significant factor towards enjoying and making your Shivapuri Day Hike comfortable. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most suitable seasons for the Shivapuri Day Hike. The weather in these months is mostly pleasant, dry and clear. The top will offer blue skies and great views of the mountains.
The spring is also the most beautiful season as the trail is lined with rhododendrons and other wildflowers, which bring colour to the forest. Autumn also has fresh and cool air, and it is also a festive season in Nepal, which contributes to the overall experience.
The Shivapuri Day Hike can also be done in winter (December to February) as long as you do not mind the cold weather. Mornings are cold, and frost may be found at higher altitudes, but days are generally sunny and clear.
The summer or monsoon season (June to August) is not so good because it is raining heavily, and muddy paths are infested with leeches. Spring and autumn seasons are the most ideal seasons to select the Shivapuri Day Hike due to the best scenery and comfort.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness should not be a problem in Shivapuri Day Hike as the altitude is moderate. The peak of the rise is approximately 2,732 meters (8,963 feet), which is not high enough to bring about serious cases of altitude sickness.
The elevation, which begins just at Kathmandu at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) and lasts few hours, does not present any major problem to most individuals. First-time hikers and beginners tend to finish the Shivapuri Day Hike without any complications arising due to the altitude.
Nonetheless, the reaction of everybody is different. A few hikers might experience slight shortness of breath or a slight headache towards the top as a result of physical exertion. To make it comfortable, one has to walk at a moderate speed, drink a lot of water, and have some short rests when necessary.
Due to the fact that it is a day hike, and you are not spending the night in high altitudes, the risk is minimal. The Shivapuri Day Hike is secure and pleasant for the majority with a few basic precautions.
Visa and Permits
If you are a foreign traveller intending to do the Shivapuri Day Hike, you would need to ensure that you have your Nepal tourist visa first. Most countries are given a visa-on-arrival at Kathmandu airport in Nepal. A tourist visa can be obtained for 15, 30 or 90 days, depending on the travel schedule. To spend a few days, a 15-day visa is normally sufficient for the Shivapuri Day Hike. Bring passport-sized photos and the visa fee so that it can be easy and fast.
In the case of permits, all hikers are expected to take out an entry permit to the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The charge to foreigners is approximately NPR 1000 per head.
When you book your Shivapuri Day Hike with Himalayan Adventure Treks, the guide takes care of the permit. The only thing you have to do is bring your passport. They do not have to purchase any extra trekking permits, and hence, the Shivapuri Day Hike is easy and hassle-free.
Transportation
The transportation of the Shivapuri Day Hike is easy, convenient and well-managed. It begins with your day when you are picked up by a private vehicle fromyour hotel in Kathmandu. This is a hassle-free way of avoiding lengthy walks or taking a taxi.
Himalayan Adventure Treks will coordinate clean and trustworthy vehicles, including a car, jeep, or van, depending on the number of people. The Budhanilkantha, the initial point of the Shivapuri Day Hike, is approximately 8 to 10 kilometres, and it normally takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
You will discover the landscape on the drive gradually shifting from the busy city streets to the serene and green foothills. Once you have finished the Shivapuri Day Hike, your driver will be waiting at the trailhead to pick you up to Kathmandu. The ride back is an easy and comfortable one, and by afternoon, you will arrive at your hotel. The transport will be provided, and therefore, you can enjoy the hike entirely.
Your Extra Expenses on the Trip
The Shivapuri Day Hike package includes the majority of the necessary services, yet you will have to expect certain personal costs. Drinks and meals are not provided, and thus it is necessary to bring your own food.
The hike takes one day to do so; there are no restaurants along the trail. Most hikers either bring a packed lunch from their hotel or snack packs of energy bars, fruit or dry food. Estimate the amount of food and drinks to be taken during the Shivapuri Day Hike at around NPR 500 to 1,000 per person. It is also necessary to carry enough water because there are no stores inside the national park.
There are other unnecessary costs, such as tips to your guide and driver,if you are satisfied with the service.
Donation at Budhanilkantha Temple or Nagi Gumba is also optional, even in small amounts. All in all, the additional expenses on the Shivapuri Day Hike are negligible, and the expenses are simple to handle.
Language & Communication
The communication at the Shivapuri Day Hike is comfortable and unproblematic. The local language is Nepali, but your guide will be fluent in English and will help with any communication, such as permits and other local contacts.
Several locals know the basics of English around Budhanilkantha and the park entrance because the place has so many tourists.
The majority of the elevation occurs within the forest where people are extremely minimal. The coverage in the mobile network is limited and unavailable in many cases along the trail. You might receive a signal at the start point or close to the mountain top, but you should not expect much.
This is why Shivapuri Day Hike is an excellent opportunity to see nature without interruptions. Your guide is aware of the locations where signals might be effective and will help in case of any emergency.
Don’ts on This Trip
Although Shivapuri Day Hike is not a challenging experience and is rather enjoyable, there are certain things you must not do to make the hike safe and respectful. Do not litter during the hike. Shivapuri National Park is a reserved forest, and therefore, always remember to carry your litter along and dispose of it in the city in a proper manner.
Do not disturb wildlife. There might be monkeys, birds, or any other animals on the trail; they should not be fed, handled, or made noises. This may be detrimental to the animals and disorganise their natural behaviour.
It is not advisable to go off the main trail on the Shivapuri Day Hike. It is thick forest land, and one can easily lose one’s way. Always follow your guide.
When going to Nagi Gumba or Budhanilkantha Temple, do not disrespect the local culture. Wear simple clothes, be silent and polite to take pictures. Neither smoke, nor light a fire, nor work too hard. Walk slowly and have fun during the process.
Trip Extension
In case you like the Shivapuri Day Hike and want to get some additional experiences, it is possible to extend your trip in many ways. It is possible to add another short hike around Kathmandu, like the Nagarkot sunrise hike or the Champadevi Hill hike. These increases provide various perspectives of the valley and scenic landscape.
It is also lovely to spend the night in such a location as Nagarkot or Dhulikhel, and this is the place where it is possible to see the sunset and sunrise with the Himalayas, as well as to spend peaceful evenings.
A Kathmandu Valley tour combined with the Shivapuri Day Hike is the ideal tour at the end of the day for those who are interested in culture. It is possible to see such famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan.
Multi-day treks like Langtang Valley or Helambu can be organised in case you have more time and desire to have a longer adventure. These alternatives make your brief hiking trip into a more fruitful Nepal travel experience.
Photography & Drone Rules
The Shivapuri Day Hike has been made special by photography because the trail is surrounded by beautiful forests, mountain chains and cultural sites. It is also welcome to capture photos along the way, in the viewpoints and at the peak. It is an amazing place for photography because of the locations like Nagi Gumba, prayer flags, and the Himalayan panorama.
Monks, nuns, and people should be asked permission before they are photographed. In the Budhanilkantha Temple, you can only take pictures of the Vishnu statue just from the outside of the premises, so ensure you do not break the rules and the instructions of your guide.
Drones cannot be used in the Shivapuri Day Hike without special permission on the part of the government. Shivapuri National Park is a nature reserve, where drones may interfere with the wildlife and break the local legislation.
Preferably, it is more appropriate to leave drones and use a camera or a phone. Note that it is also important to keep a camera safe when hiking, as well as to cover it to avoid rain. Show respect to nature and culture, and leave only photos without leaving any traces.
Major Attractions
The Shivapuri Day Hike is the place that allows enjoying the natural beauty, spiritual locations, and magnificent panoramas in a single day. The famous Sleeping Vishnu statue that lies in a pond is the first attraction that you see in the Budhanilkantha Temple. The hike starts peacefully and with a cultural touch at this sacred place.
The hike then goes on walking through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a forest and silent green park with fresh air, tall trees and wildlife. The Shivapuri Day Hike is an attraction by itself because the park is a big place that makes you feel that you are miles away in the city, though you are very close to Kathmandu.
Nagi Gumba is another Buddhist monastery that is a significant place of interest. Its peaceful location, prayer flags and the views of the valley reveal a peaceful ambience.
The trail is given spiritual significance by Baghdwar, which is the origin of the sacred Bagmati River.
Lastly, among the Shivapuri Day Hike activities, the climbing of the Shivapuri Peak gives you the panoramic views of the Himalayas and Kathmandu Valley, and so the day hiking is simply unforgettable.
Cultural Festival on the Trail
The Shivapuri Day Hike is a nature walk, though it also presents valuable cultural information, particularly at Budhanilkantha Temple. Among such influential festivals associated with this hike, one can name Haribodhini Ekadashi, which is traditionally celebrated at the end of October or in early November. Thousands of Hindu devotees come to Budhanilkantha Temple on this day to celebrate the awakening of Lord Vishnu. The whole place is vibrant with prayers, offerings and religious practices. Provided that your Shivapuri Day Hike is on this day, you will experience an atmosphere of colour and intense spirituality, although the temple grounds will be full of people.
Another special occasion is the Shivaratri, which normally occurs in February or March. As the name Shivapuri suggests, Lord Shiva is the reason why some locals hike the area on this day, as a result of spiritual reasons.
Buddhism festivals, such as Buddha Jayanti or Losar, could be celebrated quietly in Nagi Gumba by praying. Such incidents provide cultural insight into the Shivapuri Day Hike, which means that nature and spirituality in Nepal are inseparable.
Essential Packing Gear for Shivapuri Day Hike
If you have decided to go on a day Hike trip in Nepal, we assure you that you will have a fantastic time ahead. But what should you pack? What will be the right gear to make your trip more fabulous? To help you with this, we have compiled a packing list of essential items that you mustn’t forget to bring along.
- Cash
- A 30 L Daypack that has room for your essentials, such as camera, clothing, water bottle, jacket, raincoat, etc, which will be carried by you
- Protective transport cover for a backpack or travel bag
- Hiking Boots: Preferably ankle-high boots to prevent ankle sprain
- Quick-drying shirts made of synthetic fabrics
- Warm and cool vests or T-shirts
- Sports Bra for Female Trekker
- Hiking shorts
- Sun hat, and sunglasses with 100% UV protection (for hiking trips, even with stray light and nose protection)
- Sunscreen lipstick with a high SPF (at least 20, for a hike trip, or at least 30, or sunblock)
- Drinking bottled water
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Camera with sufficient memory cards and spare batteries, or a battery charger
- Toilet paper
- Map
- Binoculars
Equipment Note:
- Plus, we will also gift you a company logo T-shirt as a token of your Hiking experience in Nepal with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Shivapuri Day Hike last?
The Shivapuri Day Hike will cover a total of about 6 to 7 hours, which comprises ascent and descent.
Should the Shivapuri Day Hike be considered beginner-friendly or family-friendly?
Yes. The Shivapuri day hike has a moderate trail marked and can be done by beginners, families and active aged.
What is the height of the Shivapuri Peak, and what will be my sightseeing?
Shivapuri Peak is approximately 2, 732 meters. The Shivapuri Day Hike provides a panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley and the Langtang Himalayan range, which is supported by the height of the mountain peak.
What animals would one observe in Shivapuri Day Hike?
You can see monkeys, deer, or wild boars, and the birds can be viewed very well, as more than 300 species of birds inhabit there.
What is Nagi Gumba, and is it possible to visit Nagi gumba on the hike?
Nagi Gumba is a tranquil Buddhist nunnery situated in the park, and this is a frequent and convenient visit during Shivapuri Day Hike.
Is the Shivapuri Day Hike inclusive of meals?
No. Lunch/dinner is not provided;you should bring your own lunch, snacks and enough water.
What do I take and what do I wear on the Shivapuri Day Hike?
Put on easy hiking shoes and thick clothing. Carry water, snacks, sun protection, a light rain jacket and a camera.
Does it include transportation to the trailhead?
Yes. The Shivapuri Day Hike package includes private transportation from your hotel in Kathmandu to the trailhead and back.
Should I have a guide in the Shivapuri Day Hike?
Although one can hike on his/her own with a permit, it is highly advisable to employ a guide to join the trip due to the safety and local knowledge.
Are the toilets or water supply on the trail?
Facilities are limited. There is a simple restroom in the entrance of the park, and no drinking water is sold within the park.
Is the Shivapuri Day Hike taxed with travel insurance?
Travel insurance is optional; however, it is suggested to cover such issues as hiking and emergency evacuation.
Is tipping necessary?
Tipping is optional, but it is a welcome gesture of appreciation for good service.
When does the Shivapuri Day Hike begin and finish?
The hike typically starts around 7:00-8:00 AM and ends in the late afternoon, at about 4: 00-5: 00 PM.
Is the Shivapuri Day Hike a group or private tour?
The Shivapuri Day Hike is run as a private tour for your group.
Is the Shivapuri Day Hike extendable or customisable?
Yes. You can customise the hike and add other tours or extended hikes depending on your interests.
Will we walk through ShivapuriNational Park?
Yes. The path is clean and well-travelled, and one is highly unlikely to come across wildlife when hiking with a guide.
Does it have mobile network coverage on the hike?
Mobile reception is limited. Signal is likely to be available at the trailhead or the summit, but the rest of the hike is unmarked.
Does the culture have any etiquette to observe during the hike?
Yes. Wear simple clothes to temples and monasteries, leave shoes off when necessary and seek permission before taking photographs.
What would be the problem in case I fall ill or get wounded on the hike?
Your guide has basic first aid training and has the capability of organising an immediate evacuation to Kathmandu in case of any emergency.
Am I supposed to bring more money for the hike?
Yes. Have some Nepali money to buy food, small gifts or tips, because there are none available on the trail.
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