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 nearby 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 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 will make their trip to Shivapuri Peak. This national park stands home to many wild animals and birds as well as various species of plant life. On the other hand, the bikers also can 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 crowd. People will do more ups and down on the trails so it might be easy to follow the other.

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 Gumpa. From Nagi Gumpa 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.

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 littler 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.