Shivapuri National Park Day Hiking From Kathmandu offers an exciting opportunity to explore a hidden gem near the capital. Nestled in the northern part of the Kathmandu Valley, this national park is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With its dense forests, serene streams, and majestic views of the Himalayan Mountains, including Langtang and Ganesh Himal, it’s a paradise waiting to be discovered.
But that’s not all! Shivapuri National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, offering a chance to spot leopards, bears, and deer. The park also holds cultural significance with religious sites and monasteries dotting its landscape.
So, if you’re looking for a day of adventure, beauty, and tranquility, this hiking experience is a must-try.
Good To Know

- Shivapuri National Park is located in the northern part of the Kathmandu Valley and covers an area of approximately 159 square kilometers.
- The park offers easily accessible day hikes and nature escapes, with lush forests, serene streams, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains.
- The park is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, bears, and deer.
- The best time to visit Shivapuri National Park is during the dry season, from October to April, and the hike is of moderate difficulty.
Activity Details

The activity details of the Shivapuri National Park day hiking from Kathmandu include various options for travelers.
Firstly, there’s the benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund for those who need to change their plans.
Plus, travelers have the convenience of reserving their spot now and paying later, allowing for flexibility in their travel arrangements.
On top of that, a live tour guide is available throughout the hike, making the experience more enriching and informative. This tour guide is fluent in English, Nepali, and Hindi, ensuring effective communication with a wide range of visitors.
These activity details provide travelers with peace of mind, ease of booking, and the opportunity to explore the beautiful Shivapuri National Park with knowledgeable guidance.
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Experience

travelers can enjoy the experience of easily accessible day hikes and nature escapes in Shivapuri National Park.
Here are some highlights of the experience:
Wildlife encounters: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, bears, and deer. Explorers have the opportunity to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Scenic viewpoints: Trekking through lush forests, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains, including Langtang and Ganesh Himal. The park offers numerous scenic viewpoints where visitors can pause and take in the awe-inspiring landscapes.
Lush forests and serene streams: The park is known for its lush forests and serene streams, creating a tranquil and picturesque environment for adventurers to enjoy nature.
Serene environment for meditation: With its peaceful ambiance and serene surroundings, Shivapuri National Park provides an ideal setting for meditation and spiritual retreats.
Set out on a journey filled with wildlife encounters, stunning vistas, and a sense of tranquility in Shivapuri National Park.
Park Information

Situated in the northern part of the Kathmandu Valley, near the capital city of Kathmandu, Shivapuri National Park covers an area of approximately 159 square kilometers.
Declared a national park in 2002, it’s known for its rich biodiversity, making it home to a variety of flora and fauna.
The park contains important watershed areas that provide water to the Kathmandu Valley, highlighting its significance in water conservation.
Shivapuri National Park also offers numerous hiking and trekking trails, allowing visitors to explore its lush forests and serene streams.
The park provides breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley, Langtang Himalayan range, and Shivapuri Peak.
On top of that, it plays a crucial role in conserving the natural environment and promoting eco-tourism through its conservation efforts.
Duration, Difficulty, and Best Time to Go
To plan your hike in Shivapuri National Park, consider the duration, difficulty, and best time to go.
Duration: The hike in Shivapuri National Park is a one-day activity, taking approximately 8 hours to complete.
Difficulty: The difficulty level of the hike is moderate, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
Best Time to Go: The best time to go hiking in Shivapuri National Park is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are less slippery and muddy.
Hiking Tips and Recommended Gear: It’s advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry a backpack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Plus, it’s always a good idea to hike with a map or a guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Itinerary

The itinerary for a day hike in Shivapuri National Park includes exploring lush forests, visiting a Buddhist monastery, ascending to Shivapuri Peak for panoramic views, and choosing a different route for the descent. This allows hikers to experience the diverse beauty of the park and have a unique adventure. Along the way, there are different hiking routes to choose from, each offering its own scenic views and challenges. Hikers can also find meditation spots throughout the park, providing a serene environment for relaxation and introspection. The combination of nature, spirituality, and physical activity makes this itinerary not only a fulfilling outdoor experience but also a soul-nourishing one. To better understand the itinerary, refer to the table below:
| Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Start early in the morning | Carry packed lunch or snacks | Reach the trailhead by late afternoon or early evening |
| Visit Budhanilkantha Temple | Hike towards Shivapuri Peak | Arrange transportation back to Kathmandu |
| Begin hike towards Shivapuri from the temple | Enjoy panoramic views from the top | |
| Ascend through lush forests | Begin descent back towards the trailhead | |
| Stop at Nagi Gompa, a Buddhist monastery | Choose a different route for variety |
Note: Professional Tour Guide Provided

A professional tour guide is provided for the Shivapuri National Park day hike from Kathmandu. Here are some important things to know about having a tour guide on this adventure:
Pros:
Enhanced Safety: The tour guide is knowledgeable about the trails, wildlife, and potential risks, ensuring a safer hiking experience.
Local Expertise: The guide can provide valuable insights about the park’s history, flora, fauna, and cultural significance.
Language Support: With tour guides fluent in English, Nepali, and Hindi, language barriers are minimized, allowing for better communication and understanding.
Convenience: Having a guide means you don’t have to worry about navigating the trails or getting lost, allowing you to fully enjoy the hike.
Cons:
Additional Cost: Hiring a tour guide comes at an extra expense, increasing the overall cost of the hike.
Less Flexibility: Following a set itinerary and pace may limit your freedom to explore at your own leisure.
Tips and Tricks:
- Communicate your expectations and preferences to the tour guide beforehand.
- Ask questions and take advantage of the guide’s knowledge and expertise.
- Be mindful of their instructions and advice for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Consider tipping the guide as a gesture of appreciation for their services.
Having a professional tour guide can greatly enhance your Shivapuri National Park day hike, providing valuable insights, safety, and convenience.
Common Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Shivapuri National Park Day Hike?
There are no age restrictions for the Shivapuri National Park day hike. Participants of all ages can enjoy the experience. However, a minimum number of participants may be required for the hike to take place.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Hike?
There is no minimum number of participants required for the hike. Whether alone or in a group, anyone can enjoy the Shivapuri National Park Day Hiking experience without any restrictions on the number of participants.
Are There Any Specific Items or Equipment That Participants Should Bring for the Hike?
Participants should pack hiking essentials for a day hike in Shivapuri National Park. Recommended gear includes sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
Can Participants See Snow-Capped Peaks During the Hike?
Participants can see snow-capped peaks during the hike in Shivapuri National Park. The trail difficulty level is moderate, and the best time for the hike is during the dry season, from October to April.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available Along the Hiking Trails?
Restroom facilities are available along the hiking trails in Shivapuri National Park. Participants can find trail amenities such as restrooms to ensure their comfort and convenience during the hiking experience.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, a day hike to Shivapuri National Park from Kathmandu offers nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers the opportunity to escape the city and enjoy a serene and breathtaking environment.
With its lush forests, wildlife, and cultural significance, the park provides a perfect retreat for meditation and exploration.
By joining a professional tour guide, visitors can fully experience the beauty and tranquility of this natural paradise.
Don’t miss out on the chance to discover the wonders of Shivapuri National Park.
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