Local Area

Shivapuri Hiking: A Perfect Weekend Getaway from the City

Shivapuri Hiking is a full-day hike to the second-highest peak in Kathmandu Valley. The elevation of the Shivapuri Peak is 2720m above sea level, and the highest place near Kathmandu is Phulchoki Hill, 2782m. Hiking inside the Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park, this national park is one of the newest, smallest, and closest to Kathmandu. So that Shivapuri Peak Hike is the best option to refresh from the hustle and busty of Kathmandu.

The best attractions of Shivapuri Hiking are the unbeatable views of the snowy peaks and Kathmandu Valley from the top of Shivapuri Peak. Dense forests, proper walking trails, waterfalls, and streams are also adding beauty to this region. Hiking inside this national park is not only about observing the natural beauty. Nagi Gumba is the perfect example of the cultural heritage of the whole area. Because Nagi Gumba is the place where only female monks will live. This means this Gumba is dedicated to the nuns.

Shivapuri is not only famous for hiking, similarly it’s also a top-rated destination for bird watching. Wildlife observation is also the reason that people make their trip to Shivapuri Peak. This national park is home to many wild animals and birds as well as various species of plant life. On the other hand, the bikers can also enjoy the ride inside this national park because there are good biking routes.

The total hiking distance might be 20 to 25 KM, and it will take around 10 to 12 hours. Shivapuri Peak Hike is a bit challenging hike, so traveling with family, especially with kids, is quite difficult. Therefore, this hike is not family-friendly, although during the weekends it gets more crowded. People will do more ups and downs on the trails, so it might be easy to follow the other.

Best time to do Shivapuri Hikking

Shivapuri Peak is the second-highest peak near Kathmandu and one of the most popular hiking routes in Kathmandu. Every hiking and trekking destination you must visit at a particular time to visit to have the best hiking and trekking experience. Similarly, the best time to do Shivapuri Hiking is in three different seasons: Spring, Autumn, and Winter.

Spring Season – March, April, and May (During the spring season, the weather will be perfect, and the forests are colourful because of the Rhododendron flower. Which will make Shivapuri Peak Hiking scenic and memorable.

Autumn Season – September, October, and November (During these months, pleasant temperatures, minimal rain, excellent views of the surroundings, and the snowy peaks, so this season is the best for Shivapuri Peak Hiking)

Winter Season – December, January, and February (There are chances to have snowfall and fresh snow in this season, so it can be cold and a bit challenging. However, the view will be exceptional because of the clear weather.

Shivapuri Hiking Routes

First, drive to Budanilkhanta Temple, then drive or walk to the Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park office. Every hiker must purchase a national park entry ticket from here and follow the trail to Nagi Gompa. From Nagi Gompa, you have to walk toward Bhagdwar, and from Bhagdwar need to climb up to Shivapuri Peak. Or you can directly hike up via Deurlai to Shivapuri Peak. These are some hiking routes you can follow during the Shivapuri Hiking.

Budanilkhanta to Shivapuri Peak 2732M
Budanikkhanta to Nagi Gumba and Tarebhir
Budanilkhanta to Sundarijal or vice versa

Also, you can combine this hike with the Tarebhir Hiking route. And start your hike from Chandole and catch the normal Shivapuri Hiking trail from Nagi Gumba. When you descend no need to walk via Nagi Gumba there is a straight trail down from Deurali to Budanilkhanta.

Tips to have a good hiking experience

Carry at least 2-liter water bottles and water purification tablets.

Bring Nepali cash because there are no banks and local shops do not accept cards.

Always travel with friends, colleagues, or a group. Sometimes Solo travel can be problematic.

Bring some snacks such as chocolate bars, cookies, dried fruits, etc.

Entry fee / Hiking permit fee

Nepali Citizens 100 per day per person per entry

SAARC Citizen Rs: 600 per day per person per entry

Other Foreigners: 1000 per day per person per entry

If you want to travel by your own private vehicle it will cost an extra fee for that you can visit the website of the National Park.

What kind of hiking/trekking equipment do I need to do Shivapuri Hiking?

Well, Shivapuri Peak Hiking is not a very difficult hiking route nearby Kathmandu. However still better to prepare before doing this hiking. Especially require hiking equipment for normal hiking.