Shivapuri National Park Trek | Shivapuri Day Hike from Kathmandu

Overview

The Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal is one of the best short hikes near Kathmandu, perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful nature escape without going far from the city. Located just north of Kathmandu, this scenic route is ideal as a Shivapuri day hike or a relaxed 1–2 day trip, making it a top choice for anyone searching for an easy and refreshing trek near Kathmandu.

The Shivapuri hike takes place inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity, peaceful forest trails, and clean environment. The trail leads up to Shivapuri Peak at 2,732 meters (8,963 ft), one of the highest points around the Kathmandu Valley. From the top, you can enjoy wide views of the valley and, on clear days, even spot distant Himalayan peaks.

This trek near Kathmandu is especially loved for its calm and natural setting. The route passes through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, making it one of the most beautiful forest hikes in the region. You’ll hear birds, walk past small streams, and experience a quiet atmosphere that feels far away from the busy city. It’s perfect for beginners, students, and anyone looking for a simple outdoor adventure.

Along the way, there are several viewpoints where you can stop and enjoy the scenery. On clear days, you can see the stunning Kathmandu Valley below along with distant mountain ranges. If you want to extend your Shivapuri hike, you can visit Nagi Gumba, a peaceful monastery surrounded by forest, or Budhanilkantha Temple, which adds a cultural touch to your trip.

Another reason why the Shivapuri National Park Nepal trek is so popular is its flexibility. It works well as a short hike near Kathmandu, a weekend getaway, or even a quick solo trip. You will need a national park entry permit, which can be easily obtained at the entrance.

Overall, the Shivapuri trek is simple, scenic, and very refreshing. If you’re looking for one of the best hikes near Kathmandu with forest trails, great views, and a peaceful experience, the Shivapuri day hike is definitely worth it.

Trip Highlights – Shivapuri Hiking Experience

Reach Shivapuri Peak (2,732m / 8,963 ft), one of the highest viewpoints for a Shivapuri hike, offering wide views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan ranges
Walk through peaceful forest trails inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, surrounded by rhododendron, oak, and pine trees
Visit Bagdwar, the sacred source of the Bagmati River, an important cultural and religious highlight of the Shivapuri National Park Nepal trek
Enjoy one of the best bird watching experiences near Kathmandu, with a variety of bird species and natural wildlife along the trail
Experience a quiet and refreshing environment, making it a perfect trek near Kathmandu for relaxation and nature lovers
Explore peaceful spots like Nagi Gumba, adding a spiritual and cultural touch to your Shivapuri hike
Ideal as a short hike near Kathmandu or a Shivapuri day hike, suitable for beginners, students, and casual hikers

Shivapuri Day Hike from Kathmandu Cost Breakdown

Feature	Budget Group (4–10 pax)	Semi-Private (2–3 pax)	Fully Private (1 pax)
Price per person	$35 – $55	$55 – $85	$90 – $140+
Group size	4–10 trekkers	2–3 trekkers	1 trekker
Guide ratio	1 guide per group	1 guide per group	Dedicated guide
Transport	Shared / basic private	Private vehicle	Private vehicle
Meals	Packed lunch	Packed lunch	Packed lunch
Permits	Included	Included	Included
Safety support	First aid	First aid	First aid
Flexibility	Fixed schedule	Flexible	Fully flexible

Note: All prices are indicative. Final pricing depends on group size, season, and accommodation preferences. Contact Trip Pokhara for a custom quote tailored to your travel dates and requirements.

Short Itinerary

Day 1 :

Kathmandu to Shivapuri Peak and Return

Details Itinerary

Day 1 : Kathmandu to Shivapuri Peak and Return

Route: Kathmandu → Budhanilkantha Temple → Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park → Nagi Gumba → Bagdwar → Shivapuri Peak → Kapan → Kathmandu

Overview: Start early in the morning from Kathmandu and drive to Budhanilkantha, the main entry point for the Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal. After entering the park, begin your Shivapuri hike through peaceful forest trails filled with rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. The trail gradually climbs towards Nagi Gumba and then to Bagdwar, the sacred source of the Bagmati River. Continuing uphill, you will reach Shivapuri Peak (2,732m / 8,963 ft), where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan ranges before descending back.

Highlights:

Scenic trek near Kathmandu through dense forest trails
Visit Nagi Gumba monastery
Explore Bagdwar, the source of the Bagmati River
Reach Shivapuri Peak (2,732m / 8,963 ft)
Panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and Himalayas
Peaceful nature experience and bird watching

Meals:
Not included, Packed lunch is recommended for the Shivapuri hike as there are no proper food facilities along the trail inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Basic tea or light snacks may be available near Nagi Gumba, but availability is not guaranteed.

Include/Exclude

What are Included In My Package ?

Private transportation from Kathmandu to Budhanilkantha Temple or Mulpani entrance gate and return
Experienced, government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry permit fees
Packed lunch during the Shivapuri hike (as per package option)
Drinking water for the trek
First aid support and basic safety equipment
All applicable government taxes and service charges

What are excluded from the package ?

Personal expenses (snacks, soft drinks, extra bottled water, etc.)
Breakfast and dinner (can be arranged on request)
Travel insurance (recommended)
Tips for guide and driver (optional but expected)
Additional services not mentioned in the inclusions

Useful Information

Essentials

Small backpack (20–30L)
Water bottles (2–3 liters)
Packed lunch and light snacks (energy bars, fruits)
Comfortable hiking shoes (good grip recommended)
Lightweight, breathable clothing

Clothing

Light jacket or windproof layer (weather can change at higher altitude)
Extra t-shirt
Cap or hat (sun protection)
Sunglasses

Personal Items

Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Basic toiletries

Safety & Health

Personal first aid kit
Any personal medication
Insect repellent (optional)

Optional but Useful

Trekking pole (for steep sections)
Power bank
Camera or phone for photos
Rain jacket (especially during monsoon season)

Pro trip: Pack light but carry all essentials, as there are no proper shops or food facilities along the trail inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.

The Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal is an easy to moderate trek near Kathmandu, suitable for beginners and casual hikers
One of the best short hikes near Kathmandu with a mix of nature and light physical challenge
The trail inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is well-marked and easy to follow
Most of the route is through peaceful forest trails, making it comfortable and enjoyable to walk
Includes a steady uphill climb, especially towards Shivapuri Peak, which adds moderate difficulty
Reaches an altitude of 2,732 meters (8,963 ft), but still manageable for most people
No prior trekking experience required, but basic fitness and stamina are helpful
Ideal for travelers looking for a beginner-friendly trek near Kathmandu with rewarding views

The Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal offers a steady and rewarding altitude gain, making it one of the best short treks near Kathmandu. The hike usually starts from the lower hills near Budhanilkantha Temple, at an elevation of around 1,400 meters (4,593 ft). From here, the trail gradually climbs through forest paths inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.

The highest point of the Shivapuri hike is Shivapuri Peak at 2,732 meters (8,963 ft). This elevation is high enough to offer panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan ranges, but still manageable for most hikers without the risk of altitude sickness.

Elevation Overview

Location	Elevation (meters)	Elevation (feet)
Budhanilkantha (Start Point)	1,400 m	4,593 ft
Nagi Gumba	1,650 m	5,413 ft
Bagdwar	2,500 m (approx)	8,202 ft
Shivapuri Peak (Highest Point)	2,732 m	8,963 ft

The gradual altitude gain makes the Shivapuri trek comfortable and suitable for beginners, while still offering a rewarding high-point experience near Kathmandu.

The best time for the Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most comfortable weather, clear views, and ideal trail conditions for a trek near Kathmandu. However, the Shivapuri hike can be done throughout the year with some seasonal considerations.

Spring (March – May)

Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons for the Shivapuri trek, as the forests inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park are full of blooming rhododendrons and fresh greenery. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for a full-day hike.

Mild temperatures and comfortable weather
Blooming rhododendron flowers and green landscapes
Clear mornings with good visibility
Ideal for nature walks and photography

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is considered the best season for a Shivapuri hike near Kathmandu due to its clear skies and stable weather conditions. After the monsoon, the air becomes fresh, offering excellent visibility of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks.

Clear skies with the best mountain views
Dry and stable trail conditions
Comfortable temperatures for hiking
Best season for panoramic views

Winter (December – February)

Winter offers a quieter experience for the Shivapuri National Park Nepal trek, with fewer crowds and peaceful trails. Although temperatures can be cold, especially in the morning and evening, the days are usually clear and suitable for hiking.

Cold mornings and evenings, but clear daytime weather
Fewer hikers and peaceful environment
Good visibility for valley and mountain views
Suitable with proper warm clothing

Monsoon (June – August)

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making the Shivapuri trek near Kathmandu more challenging. The trails can become slippery, and leeches may be present, but the forest becomes very green and vibrant.

Rainy weather with wet and slippery trails
Lush green forests and fresh surroundings
Possibility of leeches in forest areas
Limited mountain views due to clouds

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for the Shivapuri trek, while winter and monsoon are still possible with proper preparation and planning.

The Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal requires a simple entry permit, as the trail passes through a protected conservation area. The permit process is easy and makes the Shivapuri hike near Kathmandu one of the most convenient short treks in Nepal. Trip Pokhara handles your documents and permits for you.

Required Permit

Entry permit for Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is mandatory
Fee is usually around:

If you are Nepali then it cost Rs 100.
NPR 1,000 for foreign nationals

Fees may vary slightly, so it’s best to confirm at the entry point

Where to Get the Permit

Permits can be obtained at the park entrance near Budhanilkantha Temple or Mulpani gate
No advance booking is required for this trek near Kathmandu
The process is quick and usually takes only a few minutes

Required Documents

Carry a valid ID:

Passport (for international travelers)
Citizenship or ID card (for Nepali travelers)

ID may be checked at the entry gate

The Shivapuri trek requires only a national park entry permit, making it one of the easiest and most accessible hiking experiences near Kathmandu with minimal paperwork.

Check the weather before starting your Shivapuri hike and avoid hiking during heavy rain or poor visibility conditions
Start early from Kathmandu to ensure you complete the trek before evening
Carry enough water (2–3 liters) and stay hydrated throughout the hike, as there are no reliable water sources on the trail
Wear proper hiking shoes with good grip, as some sections inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park can be steep or slippery
Follow marked trails and avoid shortcuts to prevent getting lost or damaging the natural environment
Respect nature by not littering and avoid disturbing wildlife in the park
Carry basic essentials like snacks, sunscreen, and a light jacket, as weather conditions can change at higher altitudes

Close to Kathmandu: This is one of the easiest and most accessible treks near Kathmandu, with just a short drive from Kathmandu to the trailhead
Perfect short hike: Ideal for a Shivapuri day hike, you can complete it in a single day or enjoy it as a relaxed 1–2 day nature trip
Peaceful forest experience: Walk through quiet and refreshing trails inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, surrounded by greenery and fresh mountain air
Great views without long trekking: Reach Shivapuri Peak (2,732m/8,963 ft) and enjoy wide views of the valley and distant Himalayan ranges without going too far
Beginner-friendly and rewarding: This short trek near Kathmandu is suitable for beginners, with a steady uphill that still feels like a real hiking achievement
Nature and culture combined: Visit peaceful places like Nagi Gumba and Bagdwar, adding a cultural and spiritual touch to your Shivapuri hike

Easy booking with Trip Pokhara: Book your Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal quickly by contacting Trip Pokhara online or via WhatsApp with your travel date, group size, and preferred package
Advance booking recommended: Secure your spot for this popular Shivapuri trek near Kathmandu, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn
Flexible payment options: Trip Pokhara offers convenient payment methods including bank transfer, secure online payment, and cash on arrival in Kathmandu
Partial payment for confirmation: A small advance payment is required to confirm your Shivapuri hike, with the remaining balance payable before or during the trip
Instant confirmation from Trip Pokhara: Once booked, you will receive a confirmation message with full itinerary details, guide information, and trip arrangements
Customizable Shivapuri packages: Choose from budget, semi-private, or fully private tours with Trip Pokhara, tailored for your short trek near Kathmandu

Nagi Gumba extension with Trip Pokhara: Add a visit to Nagi Gumba for a peaceful monastery experience during your Shivapuri hike, arranged easily with Trip Pokhara
Sundarijal route option: Extend your trek near Kathmandu by descending via Sundarijal for a different scenic trail and fresh forest views
Chisapani trek extension: Combine your trip with Chisapani for a 2–3 day trekking experience with mountain views and village stays, customizable through Trip Pokhara
Nagarkot sunrise add-on: Extend your journey to Nagarkot for a famous Himalayan sunrise view, enhancing your short trek near Kathmandu
Kathmandu sightseeing tour: Add cultural experiences around Kathmandu including temples, heritage sites, and local markets with Trip Pokhara
Flexible itinerary customization: Trip Pokhara offers fully customizable options for the Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal, including private tours, extra days, and alternate routes

Limited network connectivity: Mobile signal can be weak or unavailable inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, so download offline maps before starting your Shivapuri hike near Kathmandu
Start early for a better experience: Begin your Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal early in the morning to enjoy clear views and complete your trek near Kathmandu before evening
Weather can change quickly: Conditions near Shivapuri Peak (2,732m/8963 ft) can shift fast, so carry a light jacket for your Shivapuri trek
No food facilities on the trail: There are no proper shops along this short trek near Kathmandu, so carry enough water, snacks, and a packed lunch
Trail safety and footwear: Some sections of the Shivapuri hike can be steep or slippery, so wear proper hiking shoes with good grip
Respect nature and local culture: Keep the trail clean and respect peaceful places like Nagi Gumba during your Shivapuri trek near Kathmandu

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FAQs

The Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal is considered easy to moderate. It is beginner-friendly but includes a steady uphill climb, making it a good trek near Kathmandu for most people.

The Shivapuri hike usually takes around 8–10 hours to complete in one day, depending on pace and rest stops.

The starting point near Budhanilkantha Temple is about 30–45 minutes drive from Kathmandu, making it one of the most accessible short treks near Kathmandu.

Yes, you need an entry permit for Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which can be obtained at the park entrance.

A guide is not mandatory, but it is recommended for a safer and more organized Shivapuri trek near Kathmandu, especially for first-time visitors.

Yes, the Shivapuri hike is suitable for beginners with basic fitness and stamina, as the trail is well-marked and not technically difficult.

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best seasons for the Shivapuri National Park Trek Nepal, offering clear views and comfortable weather.

The highest point of the Shivapuri trek is Shivapuri Peak at 2,732 meters (8,963 ft), which offers great views while still being manageable for most hikers.