Z
Zanele Ndlovu
Durban, South Africa
Nov 24, 2025
Our guide pointed out bird species throughout the hike, and knowing the park is home to red pandas and clouded leopards added real excitement.
Destination
Nepal
Duration
1 Day
Best Weather
March, April, May, September, October & November
Accommodation
N/A
Meals
N/A
Transportation
Private vehicle
Group
Min 1 pax
Difficulty
Easy
Activities
Hiking, Day Tour
Overview
Starting and ending in Kathmandu. The Shivapuri National Park hike takes you on an adventure. On the hills of the Mahabharat range nestled at the edge of the capital. Established as a watershed area in 2033 B.S to preserve the source of river Bagmati, one of the holiest rivers in the country. Later in 2002 A.D., it was gazette as Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to preserve the biodiversity of the region.
Perched in the mid-hills on the northern fringe of the Kathmandu Valley. The Park covers a total area of 159 sq. km. and ranges from an altitude of approximately 1350m – 2732m above sea level. Covering districts of Kathmandu, Nuwakot, and Sindupalchowk. Shivapuri National Park’s deep wilderness is linked with Langtang, Shivapuri, Nagarjun, and Gokarna forests which is the migration route of various animals. Home to wide species including common leopard, clouded leopard, Red Panda, Barking Deer, Yellow Throated Martin, Wild Boars, and more than 250 species of birds.
The second highest hill of Kathmandu Valley with lush woodlands, villages, ancient temples, and Gompas. This Shivapuri hike is regarded as a historical and religious site and a popular trail for locals and tourists. Traversing across lush forest visit Baghdwar Translated as “Tigers Mouth”, the source of the holy Bagmati River. Explore villages dotted along hilltops. Stop by Budanilkhanta temple and witness the grand scripture of the Hindu deity Lord Vishnu, learning about the legends. Head to Nagi Gompa situated at an altitude of 2330 m north of Kathmandu just above Budanilkhanta Temple. A famous Monastery for Nuns who practice Buddhism. Also, witness grand views of the valley down below surrounded by rings of green hills.
Hiking Information:
The Starting point of the hike is Budhanilkhanta. From here traversing across the woodland
explore various sections of the Shivapuri National Park. Also, visit the “Tigers Mouth”, the source
of the holy Bagmati River and Nagi Gompa situated at an altitude of 2330 meters. The hike ends
at Budhanilkhanta with an exploration of the temple of Lord Vishnu.
Pickup places
- Alpine Club of Himalaya
- Any hotel In Thamel
- Tribhuvan international airport
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full co-operation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
Detail Itineraries
from your hotel and bring you back to your hotel after the trip is completed. As there is no place for Lunch during the hike we recommend you take some water and some light food with you. We pick you up from your place at 08:00 am and bring you back around 15:00-16:00 pm after the trip is completed. There will be private transport and English-speaking experienced hiking guide for the trip. Tipping is expected for driver and guide as you like.
Trip Highlight
- Closet National Park to the capital city.
- Witness a wide range of bio-diversity.
- Explore villages dotted along hilltops.
- Visit Baghdwar, the source of the Holy Bagmati River.
- Visit Nagi Gompa and Budanilkhanta Temple.
Cost Include and Exclude
Kathmandu to Budhanilkantah by private car
Budhanilkantha to Kathmandu by private car
Guide during the trek
Lunch with tea or coffee
Entrance Fees and Permit (for Shivapuri National Park)
Road Taxes, Fuel, and Parking Fees
Gov. Taxes and Service Charges
T-shirt and Map
Reviews
E
Emeric Nagy
Budapest, Hungary
Apr 19, 2025
Seeing the source of the holy Bagmati River, known as Tiger's Mouth, gave real context to a river we'd already seen flowing through Kathmandu.
M
Michael Taylor
Canada
Mar 30, 2025
A perfect one-day hiking experience from Kathmandu. The trail, forest, villages, and mountain scenery were all beautiful.
E
Emily Carter
Australia
Mar 22, 2025
The views over Kathmandu Valley were fantastic. The forest trail was peaceful and our guide made the hike very enjoyable.
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