Shivapuri Day Hiking

Introduction

Hiking Shivapuri in one day is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Kathmandu Valley, especially if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a rewarding outdoor adventure. Here’s a general outline of what you can expect and how to plan your trip:

Overview of Shivapuri Hiking

Shivapuri National Park is located to the north of Kathmandu and is the second-highest hill surrounding the valley. The hike to the summit of Shivapuri (2,732 meters / 8,963 feet) offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, the surrounding hills, and on clear days, views of the Himalayan ranges. The hike also passes through lush forests, charming villages, and a range of biodiversity.

Starting Point

• Entry Point: The most common entry point for a one-day hike is the Shivapuri National Park entrance gate in Budhanilkantha, which is located near the famous Vishnu temple. From here, you’ll begin your ascent.
• Transportation: You can easily reach Budhanilkantha from Kathmandu by taxi, local bus, or private car (about 30–45 minutes depending on traffic).

Typical Route & Itinerary for a Day Hike

1. Start Early (6:00 AM – 7:00 AM)

• Begin the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, and to give yourself enough time to complete the hike. The entire round trip usually takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace.
• Have a light breakfast, and make sure you bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a light jacket.

2. Entry and the Ascent (7:30 AM – 10:30 AM)

• From Budhanilkantha, start ascending towards Shivapuri Peak.
• The trail gradually climbs through a variety of terrains: forest, streams, and some steep sections.
• You’ll pass through several checkpoints within the park, and the route is clearly marked.
• The first part of the trail is a steady climb through dense forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife like birds, monkeys, and other animals.
• After around 2–3 hours of moderate trekking, you’ll reach Nagi Gumba, a beautiful Buddhist monastery. It’s a good spot to take a break and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

3. Reaching the Summit (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)

• After Nagi Gumba, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging.
• You’ll reach the top of Shivapuri Peak, where the views are absolutely stunning.
• On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even Mount Everest in the distance.
• Spend some time at the summit, enjoy the views, take photos, and rest before heading back down.

4. Descent (12:30 PM – 3:00 PM)

• The return journey is usually faster, but be careful as the descent can be hard on your knees.
• You’ll retrace your steps back to Budhanilkantha. Be mindful of the time, as the trail is mostly downhill and can become slippery in some sections.

5. End of the Hike (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

• You should arrive back at Budhanilkantha by mid-afternoon.
• Take a break, have some snacks, and then either catch a bus or taxi back to Kathmandu.

What to Bring

• Water: At least 2-3 liters, especially if it’s a hot day.
• Snacks: Energy bars, fruits, nuts, or other light snacks.
• Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Protection from the sun, especially at higher altitudes.
• Warm Jacket: Even in warmer months, it can be chilly at the summit.
• Comfortable Footwear: Good hiking boots or shoes with good grip.
• Camera: For those panoramic views!
• Personal Identification: You may need an ID or a park permit at the entry gate.

Difficulty & Fitness Level

• The hike is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves a steady ascent for several hours, with some sections being steep and rocky. The total distance is approximately 10-12 kilometers (round trip).
• If you have a reasonable level of fitness and enjoy hiking, you should be able to complete it in a day.

Alternative Routes

• Loop Trek: Instead of returning via the same path, you can take a longer loop down through different parts of the park, although this will add a couple of extra hours to your hike.
• Day Hike to Nagi Gumba: If you don’t have the time or energy for the full summit, you can always aim for Nagi Gumba. It’s still a scenic and rewarding destination and only takes about 3-4 hours round trip.

Best Time to Go

• Autumn (September – November) and Spring (March – May) are the best times to hike Shivapuri, as the weather is mild and the views are generally clear.
• Winter (December – February) can be cold at the summit, but the hike is still possible if you’re prepared for colder weather.
• Summer (June – August) can be rainy, which makes the trail slippery and less ideal for hiking.

Permits and Fees

• Entry Fee: As of the latest updates, you’ll need a park entrance permit (typically around NPR 100-150 for Nepali citizens and NPR 1,000-1,500 for foreigners). This can be obtained at the entrance gate at Budhanilkantha.

Safety Tips

• If hiking alone, let someone know your plans or go with a guide.
• Carry a fully charged mobile phone and a power bank.
• Be mindful of your stamina, and take regular breaks.
• Respect the wildlife and the environment; avoid littering.

This one-day hike to Shivapuri offers a great mix of nature, views, and a bit of adventure while being close enough to Kathmandu for a day trip. It’s a must-do for those who enjoy outdoor activities!