Shivapuri Hike Day - 1 Days

1 Days
Quick Overview
Duration1 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude2,563 m / 8,408 ft
Group Size2 - 20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesHiking
Best TimeWhole Year

Activities

  • 8:00 AM: Hotel pickup within Kathmandu.

  • 45-minute drive: Drive to Budhanilkantha.

  • Permit check: Complete national park permit formalities at the army checkpoint.

  • 3 to 4-hour hike: Trek up to Nagi Gumba.

  • Explore: Spend some time at Nagi Gumba and explore the peaceful surroundings. If timing allows, you may also have the opportunity to observe or join a prayer ceremony with the resident nuns, depending on their daily schedule.

  • 2-hour hike: Descend back to Budhanilkantha.

  • Drive back: Return transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Overview of Hike on Shivapuri Day

Drive to Budhanilkantha (around 40 minutes), followed by a hike to Shivapuri Hill (3–4 hours), then return hike back to Budhanilkantha (about 2 hours), and finally drive back to Kathmandu (around 40 minutes). A hike to Shivapuri, the northern hill of the Kathmandu Valley, offers a peaceful walking experience with beautiful views of the valley below and, on clear days, the Himalayan range from the top. Shivapuri stands at 2,563 meters and is the second-highest hill surrounding the valley. It is also a popular destination for bird watching, and Bagdwar, the origin of the Bagmati River, is another highlight of this trail.

The journey begins with a 40-minute drive to Budhanilkantha, the starting point of the hike. The Budhanilkantha Temple is a sacred Hindu site dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its large stone statue resting in a pond. From here, the trail continues into the Shivapuri Conservation Area, which is home to more than 500 species of wildlife. After a short walk, you reach the army checkpoint, and beyond it, the trail enters dense forest with steep slopes in some sections. Most of the route is made up of stone steps, making the hike steady and manageable. As you climb higher, views of the Kathmandu Valley become more open and clear.

Along the way, you pass Nagi Gompa (2,340m), a Buddhist monastery where nuns practice meditation and daily rituals. The monastery is well known among both locals and visitors for its calm atmosphere and spiritual setting. The trail becomes steeper and narrower as it approaches the upper section of Shivapuri. Beyond Bagdwar, the source of the Bagmati River, the landscape turns lush and green, creating a refreshing natural environment. At the top, the viewpoint rewards hikers with wide panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

The descent back to Budhanilkantha is easier and takes about two hours, followed by a short drive back to Kathmandu. Shivapuri is ideal for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone looking for a quiet day hike close to the city, with a mix of natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural landmarks along the way.

Dates & Booking

Your trek, your choice, your price

Choose the style that suits you. Book a private departure on any date with just your group, or join a fixed group departure and trek with fellow adventurers. Same routes, same guides, same quality — 3 comfort tiers on both options. The more people in your group, the lower the per-person price.

Private Departure

  • Any date you choose
  • Just your party + dedicated guide
  • 3 comfort tiers (Budget, Standard, Luxury)
  • Price drops with larger groups

Fixed Group Departure

  • Scheduled dates (see below)
  • Join other trekkers from around the world
  • 3 comfort tiers (Budget, Standard, Luxury)
  • Price drops as more people join
Book Private DepartureView Group Departures ↓

Spring season (Mar–May) — clear skies and rhododendron blooms. Book 4–6 weeks ahead for the best guide availability.

Questions about this trek?

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Essential Information

What to expect on the trail

This is a day hike, so no overnight accommodation is needed. The Shivapuri hike takes you through the peaceful forests of Shivapuri National Park, with fresh mountain air, shaded walking trails, and beautiful views of the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding hills. The trail is well-maintained, with a mix of forest paths, stone steps, and gradual uphill sections. Along the way, you may pass small resting spots and scenic viewpoints perfect for short breaks and photos.

The walk is moderate and suitable for most people with a reasonable fitness level. Comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and at least one litre of water are recommended. Your guide carries a first aid kit and pulse oximeter as standard.

Food

Your meal arrangements depend on your chosen package. Budget travellers will find local restaurants and teahouses along the trail serving fresh Nepali dishes at very reasonable prices. Standard and Luxury packages include lunch at a local restaurant along the trail, so you can focus on the scenery rather than the menu.

Travel Essentials

Visa and passport

All visitors except Indian nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. You will need a passport-sized photograph, the visa fee (USD 50 for a 30-day stay), and a passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Visit the Department of Immigration website at immigration.gov.np for the latest requirements. Citizens of SAARC nations and China may qualify for free or simplified visa arrangements, though specific conditions apply.

Changing money

Nepal's official currency is the Nepali Rupee (NPR), with an approximate exchange rate of 1 USD to 130 NPR. Banks and licensed money exchanges in Kathmandu will convert most major foreign currencies. We recommend using licensed exchange counters rather than banks to avoid higher fees and longer processing times. ATMs in Kathmandu dispense up to NPR 35,000 per transaction with a fee of approximately NPR 500. Please note that only Indian Rupee notes of 100 and 2,000 denomination are accepted in Nepal. Nepali banks will not accept old, damaged, or faded foreign banknotes, so bring fresh, clean bills. For a day hike, you will not need much cash beyond what your package covers, but NPR 2,000-3,000 for snacks, drinks, and small purchases along the trail is sufficient.

Booking your hike

Private hike

All our hikes are private experiences, meaning you will hike exclusively with your own group. We never add strangers to your party. The schedule is fully customisable to suit your pace and interests.

Solo and group bookings

Our hikes are organised with a minimum of two people. If you are travelling alone and would like company, we can organise a group departure open to other hikers. Once you confirm your date, we will list it on our website so others can join. This way, every hike becomes your own personal Himalayan experience.

Trusted booking

The Everest Holiday is a registered and bonded trekking operator, ensuring a secure booking process. We are proud members of the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN, Member #1586) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Our founder, Ganesh Prasad Simkhada, has held senior positions in Nepal's tourism and mountaineering institutions. To confirm your booking, we require a 10% advance payment. Payment options include the Himalayan Bank online portal on our website, major credit cards, bank transfers, Wise, and Western Union. Please send us a copy of your passport within one week of booking, and ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your arrival date in Nepal.

Last-minute booking

We recommend booking in advance, but we also welcome last-minute arrangements, which require full payment 24 hours before departure. For last-minute bookings, please contact Shreejan at +977 9810351300 or email [email protected]. Please note that last-minute arrangements may occasionally face delays due to circumstances beyond our control.

Flexible schedule

Your hike date is entirely up to you. If the suggested dates on our website do not suit your plans, let us know and we will arrange a departure on whatever day works best for your schedule.

Trip extension

You can easily extend your stay with other adventures. We arrange jungle safaris in Chitwan and Bardia, bungee jumping in Pokhara, Bhote Koshi, and Kushma, rafting on the Bhote Koshi, Trishuli, and Seti rivers, paragliding in Pokhara and Kathmandu, and much more. We also arrange cultural sightseeing tours around the Kathmandu Valley, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. For a serene getaway, we recommend a sunrise trip to Nagarkot or Dhulikhel. Have a look at our add-on packages when booking for even more options.

Ecotourism practices

We are deeply committed to protecting the natural beauty of the Dhulikhel-Namobuddha region. At the start of the hike, each person receives an eco-waste bag. Please place all non-compostable rubbish, including snack wrappers, plastic bottles, and batteries, in this bag and carry it with you. Our guides will show you where to dispose of waste responsibly at the end of the trail. Your cooperation helps keep these hills clean and beautiful for the communities who live here and the travellers who will follow.

The Everest Holiday family

We are a family company with three generations of experience in Nepal's tourism industry. We believe that everyone who works with us is family. Our professional, experienced guides will be with you throughout the day to ensure your hike is safe and memorable. They hold first aid qualifications, speak fluent English, and know the Dhulikhel-Namobuddha region intimately. We cover their insurance, meals, and medical expenses. Please treat our team with the same warmth they will show you, and never hesitate to ask questions or share concerns at any time.

Facilities and Essentials

Communication

Mobile coverage is generally good throughout this tour route. We will provide you with a SIM card in Kathmandu and teach you how to get data and recharge. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and restaurants along the way. Your guide carries a mobile phone at all times for coordination and emergencies.

Luggage

Your luggage will be transported by vehicle throughout the tour, so there are no weight restrictions. You will only need a small daypack for items you want during sightseeing stops. Extra baggage can be stored for free at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Trip Conclusion

Trip Conclusion

At the end of your trip, we host a farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Kathmandu. It is a relaxed evening to share stories and give us your feedback. On your departure day, we transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in good time for your flight.

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in Nepal. We recommend giving a tip to your guide and driver at the end of the tour. The amount is up to you and can depend on the quality of service and your overall experience.

FAQs

Q: Where does the hike start?
The hike begins in Budhanilkantha, located about 40–45 minutes' drive from Kathmandu. Your hotel pickup is included at 8:00 AM.

Q: How long does the full day take?
Roughly 8–10 hours total, including drives, permit formalities, the ascent, time at the destination, and the descent back to your hotel.

Q: Do I need a permit?
Yes. Both hikes pass through the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, and permit formalities are completed at the army checkpoint near Budhanilkantha. Bring a valid ID or passport.

Q: What's the difference between the Nagi Gumba hike and the Shivapuri Hill hike?
The Nagi Gumba hike ends at the Buddhist monastery (around 2,340 m) and is a moderate trek. The Shivapuri Hill hike continues beyond Nagi Gompa to the summit at 2,563 m, making it longer and more strenuous.

Q: How difficult is the hike?

Both hikes are moderate. The trail is mostly stone steps with some steep sections, especially near the top of Shivapuri. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.#

Q: How long is the hike itself?

  • Nagi Gumba: 3–4 hours up, about 2 hours down.

  • Shivapuri Hill: 3–4 hours up, about 2 hours down.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners or children?

The Nagi Gumba hike is suitable for beginners and reasonably active children. The full Shivapuri Hill hike is better suited for those with some hiking experience due to the steeper upper section.

Q: What can I see along the way?

Highlights include the Budhanilkantha Temple (a sacred Hindu site with a stone statue of Lord Vishnu reclining in a pond), dense forest within the Shivapuri Conservation Area, more than 500 species of wildlife, Nagi Gompa monastery, Bagdwar (the source of the Bagmati River), and panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and Himalayan range on clear days.

Q: Can I join the prayer ceremony at Nagi Gumba?

If timing aligns with the nuns' daily schedule, you may be able to observe or join a prayer ceremony. This is not guaranteed, as it depends on the monastery's routine that day.

Q: Is this a good hike for bird watching?

Yes. Shivapuri is one of the most popular bird-watching destinations near Kathmandu, with a wide variety of species found within the conservation area.

Q: Will I see the Himalayas?

On clear days, particularly from the Shivapuri summit, you can see panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Visibility is generally best from October to April.

Q: What should I wear and bring?

Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, breathable layers, a light jacket (it can be cool at higher elevations), sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, at least 1.5–2 liters of water, snacks, a small daypack, and your ID/passport for the permit check.

Q: Is food available on the trail?

There are small tea houses along the route where you can buy tea, snacks, and basic meals. It's also a good idea to carry your own snacks.

Q: Are toilets available?

Basic toilet facilities are available at Nagi Gompa and at a few tea houses along the trail, but they are limited.

Q: When is the best time of year to do this hike?

October to April is generally the best season, offering clear skies and the best mountain views. The monsoon months (June–August) can be slippery and foggy.

Q: Is the hike safe for solo travelers?

Yes, the trail is well-traveled and passes through a protected national park with army checkpoints. Going with a guide is recommended for added safety, navigation, and cultural context.

Q: What about the dress code at religious sites?

At Budhanilkantha Temple and Nagi Gompa, modest clothing is expected — shoulders and knees covered. Remove shoes when entering temple or monastery interiors.