Important Information

Region
Hiking in and around Kathmandu Valley
Duration
1 Day
Max Altitude
2732m
Best Season
All season except Monsoon
Activity Per Day
7-8 Hours
Grade
Level 2
Group Size
2 – 12 people
Transportation
Car, Jeep, Eco Van, bus

Shivapuri Hike is the nearest hiking destination from the center of Kathmandu city which is also one of the must-do hikes when you are in Kathmandu. Shivapuri hike is located within the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The National Park covers an area of 144 km square and is linked with Nuwakot, Sindhupalchowk, and Dhading districts. This hike requires a full day to reach the top of Shivapuri hill where the Shivapuri Baba statue is located. 

Many people hike up to Shivapuri Peak for recreational activity during their weekend and there is a saying too “Hiking is Nature’s Therapy.” But some Hindu devotees hike to pay homage to the holy site of Shivapuri Baba. 

Route to Shivapuri Peak/Hill
(Budhanilkantha - Nagi nunnery Gompa – Bhagdwar water spring– Shivapuri Baba Statue Hill Top- Budhanilkantha)

Although the hiking trail can be done clockwise Himalayan Wander Walkers hiking guide always suggests you do Shivapuri Hike in anti-clockwise. The clockwise route is a massive climb in the beginning whereas the anticlockwise route slowly gains in height and is better for beginners. 

The starting point of the Shivapuri Hike starts from the Shivapuri National Park gate from Budhanilkantha side where the main entrance to National Park is located. The armies at the checkpoint will provide you entrance ticket and the price is mentioned on it.  The first hour of the hiking trail will be the unpaved road that leads to Nagi Gompa, a nunnery monastery which is an affiliation of Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling, locally known as a white monastery that lies in Boudha, 5 minutes’ walk from the Boudhanath Stupa. After 15-20 minutes of exploring around the monastery, you will resume your hike to Shivapuri Peak. After the steep climb through the thick woods, you will reach Baghdwar where you will find a small waterfall. Again climb up for 200 meters and you will reach the small flat area where the statue of Shivapuri Baba is kept inside the fenced round shelter. This is the highest point (2732m) of your Shivapuri hike. From here you will witness a few mountains like Langtang during the clear weather. After spending quality time and taking a lunch break you will descent to the exit gate from the other direction trail that directly heads to National Park Gate. The total distance of the Shivapuri hike is approximately 16 - 18 km in total and it takes about 7- 8 hours. 

If you are looking for a different itinerary than the itinerary here, please Customize Your Trip. 

Your trip at a glance

1 day

  1. Day 1 Shivapuri Day hike Itinerary
    • Pickup at 7:00 am 
    • Drive to National Park Gate 
    • Start hike to Nagi Gompa
    • Continue your hike to Shivapuri Hill Top
    • Descent to Exit Gate in anticlockwise Route.
    • Drop to your hotel. 

What's included 3 items

  • Land Transportation from your hotel to Entrance Gate and Drop back to your hotel (within Kathmandu district)
  • National Park Permit
  • Hiking Guide

What's not included 2 items

  • Tips for guide
  • Other things not mentioned in the include section

Useful Information

CHECKLISTS FOR SHIVAPURI PEAK HIKE

  • Comfortable day hiking clothes (light layers, comfortable t-shirt, hiking pants or leggings, sun hat or cap, comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners, rain jacket or windbreaker)
  • Small daypack or backpack (20-30 liters capacity), water bottle or hydration pack (at least 1-2 liters), snacks and energy food (trail mix, energy bars, fruits)
  • Personal Items (sunscreen, sunglasses, basic first-aid supplies, any personal medications, insect repellent), camera or smartphone for photos, trekking poles (optional, but helpful for knee support on descents) 
  • Cash in Nepali Rupees for entrance fees, snacks, and emergencies (credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas)
  • Mobile phone (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators, then your cell phone will work in Nepal.)

Frequently asked questions

What to Bring ?

The most important consideration for any tour is staying warm and dry, lightweight, breathable, moisture-winking under layers are highly recommended. Insulating layers and jackets are necessary. Comfortable shoes, quality socks (quality socks are recommended), and head covering (insulating caps and brimmed caps designed to block sunlight) are essential. Outer layers should be made of waterproof, wind-blocking material such as Gore-Tex. Sunglasses and sun-block cream, drinking water bottles, and other personal necessities.

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