Shivapuri Hike offers an enjoyable hiking experience for both trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The park covers an area of 159 km2, with over 500 species of birds and animals. The hiking route clustered with ethnic villages and dense forests. Which provide magnificent views of the Langtang and Rolwaling mountains. This hiking trip is bound to provide your closeness to nature despite its closeness to the city.
Shivapuri Hike, Day hiking in Nepal
The trip begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Budhanilkantha and involves sightseeing at the esteemed Hindu Temple. Thereon, you will be in the company of the mesmerizing Shivapuri National Park. Shivapuri is the second highest hill near the Kathmandu valley with natural forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. The hike takes place in the Shivapuri National Park which spreads in the districts of Kathmandu, Nuwakot, and Sindhupalchowk.
The park is the abode of animals such as the clouded leopard, leopard cat, barking deer, langur monkeys, and red panda. Along with the stunning natural beauty, this trip comprises of culture and religion as well. Hikers can also visit the Nagi Gompa which is a prominent Buddhist monument. The locals along the hiking trails are mostly from Chhetri and Tamang communities.
The trail to the top is fairly easy and becomes more pleasing as we traverse it. Enjoy the delightful sight of the Kathmandu valley along with the scenic views of mountain peaks in Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and Rolwaling ranges. Being a low altitude hike, anyone can take part in this adventure. You can add Shivapuri Hike to your other tour or trekking itinerary or can do it on a solo basis. The best season for this hike is from February-May and October-November.
After breakfast at the hotel, our company van will pick you up and drive you to Budhanilkantha. The 30-minute drive will take you north of the Kathmandu Valley. We shall visit the Budhanilkantha temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The hike starts from here, and after 20 minutes of walking, we arrive at the entrance of the Shivapuri National Park. After completing the legal formalities, we commence the hike. The trail takes you through the pristine pine and cherry forests which later heads towards the Nagi Gompa. Spend some time in the Gompa to learn the lifestyle of the monks. Along the way, you can catch clear glimpses of the Langtang mountain range. After having lunch, we get back to the starting point of the trek. Our company van will pick you from the park entrance and drive you back to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day as you please.