Overview
- Duration Full Day
- Max Elevation 2732m / 8,963 m
- Group Size 02-10
- Average Walk 05-06 hrs
- Location Kathmandu
- Start/End KTM / KTM
- Transportation Car / Van
Shivapuri one of the nearest hiking route from Kathmandu city offers a glorious view of different mountain ranges. It takes the place of 1st runner up among the highest hill. Shivapuri has provided a fantastic hiking platform for the one who do not have adequate leisure in this hustle bustle. The short trek of the place has made an effective exploitation of weekend of the people. The place is situated in the northern side of Kathmandu at a height of 2732m. The hike facilitates the trekker with a marvelous singing of birds in a forest, greeneries, natural environment and different mountain ranges.
The trek begins from Army check post which lies in the southern side from Budhanilkantha. The check post is the security offered for the conservation area where numerous species are available. In the process of hiking the trekkers goes through the view of jungle with a soothing environment. One can just sit and relax observing the environment and different cultural houses. Trekkers has the option whether to hike whole day or end their journey within 3-4 hours.
However, one should pass by a dense forest who can get a chance to have a glance of spotted deer and jackals if lucky. One can see the monkeys and birds voices throughout the journey. Above Budhanilkantha temple there is monastery named as Nagi Gumba which where people visit for the relaxation and for meditation as well.
Trekkers can just walk above the monastery and reach to Shivapuri hill for the end of their hiking. However, one can also continue their journey after taking a break for the lunch from Shivapuri to Kopan. While returning back to the Kathmandu one can explore the monasteries of Kopan and drive back.
Thus a trekker can enjoy their hike through:
One can enjoy the soothing view of bird as a Shivapuri is regarded as a paradise for a bird watching.
Trekkers can also explore Himalayas range like Lantang, Annapurna and overall view of Kathmandu valley from the peak of Shivapuri.
Trekkers must walk through the way of dense forest and dusty soil and mud which is quite adventurous.
Additional Information:
- Overall hiking comprises of 5-6 hours to lead towards Shivapuri National Park.
- You will find a monastery named Nagi Gumba which has a soothing environment. Thus one can exploit their time through meditation.
- One need to carry enough water and food for themselves as there are very few retailers nearby.
- Alcohol, cigarettes, lighters and knives are strictly prohibited inside the National Park.
- The trekkers can extend their package if they want to take the footsteps ahead to Bagdwar which is 1.5- 2 hour ahead from Shivapuri peak.
Itineraries
Pickup:
You will be picked up from your respective hotels around 7: 30 am and you will be taken to Budhanilkantha temple.
Stop At: Buddhalinikhanta Temple
Visit holy Buddhalinkihanta temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu which lies below the Shivapuri Hill 8 km away from the Kathmandu city. Also known as Sleeping Bishnu and identified by a large reclining 5-meter long statue of Lord Vishnu from 5th Century. After this, we walk further up toward Shivapuri National Park.
Stop At: Nagi Gumba
The journey begins at around 9: 30 where you will be hiking towards Shivapuri National Park. Going through the way of Shivapuri National Park, trekkers will be visiting Nagi Gumba (2330m) which takes around 1.5- 2 hour through a walk where one can see the Buddhism practising Nuns. The trekkers can also exploit their time through meditation. As the visitors might have an empty tummy till the time, they can enjoy the packed lunch.
Stop At: Shivapuri Peak
The trail now goes more ahead which leads towards Shivapuri Peak where one can see the beautiful view of Gaurishankar, Langtang, Ganesh Himal and Manaslu after walking around 1.5 hours from Gumba. The trip is completed after exploring Shivapuri Peak.
Drop off: Hotel in Kathmandu
You will be now heading back towards Budhanilkantha to drive back Kathmandu and to your hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is the best time for a hiking?
As the route has a muddy way with a dense forest it is recommended to travel from the month of September to March as these months rarely have a rainfall. However people treks at any time considering the weather.
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What are the best thing to do in a journey?
One can exploit some time to relax in a Nagi Monastery. Moreover meditation is also quite preferable in this soothing environment of Gumba. The trekkers can also enjoy observing the lifestyle of Nepalese people in village areas during the journey.
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How long does it take for the overall hiking?
Going through the journey of 1daay hiking it takes around 5-6 hours to reach in the peak of Shivapuri hill and returning back to Kathmandu.
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Can we find retail shops?
There are very few retail shops that one can find in their trek. Thus it is recommended to carry first aid, foods and water in the beginning of the journey.
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Are there any hotels available nearer?
There are some hotels starting from Budhanilkantha to Shivapuri. Thus a trekker also has a option to book a hotel for one night with all the necessary accommodations.
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Do the place charge entrance fee?
There are certain places where entrance fee is charged which is included in package. However the trekker who is going by themselves need to pay certain amount in the Army check post.