Overview
Shivapuri Day Hiking is a refreshing escape into nature, offering trekkers a chance to explore the beauty of the Shivapuri National Park, located just north of Kathmandu. Known for its rich biodiversity and scenic trails, Shivapuri is the second-highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley, standing at 2,563 meters. The hike begins with a short drive from Kathmandu to the entrance of the park, and from there, you’ll follow a well-maintained trail through dense forests, charming villages, and scenic hills. This day hike is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat from the busy streets of Kathmandu. The relatively moderate trail is suitable for most fitness levels and offers an unforgettable combination of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and spiritual significance.
As you hike through the dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species and possibly even the rare Himalayan tahr or wild boar. The trail offers a range of beautiful views, including sweeping vistas of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding peaks of the Himalayas. One of the highlights of the Shivapuri Day Hiking is the ascent to the Shivapuri Peak, which offers a panoramic view of the valley below and the distant snow-capped mountains. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the peaks of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and even Mount Everest in the far distance, making the summit a perfect spot for photography and reflection.
Along the way, you’ll also pass several important landmarks, including the Nagi Gompa, a Buddhist monastery located on a ridge with commanding views of the valley. The monastery offers a peaceful retreat, allowing hikers to rest and take in the spiritual atmosphere of the site. As the hike continues, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the serenity of the national park, observing the beauty of the flora and fauna, and perhaps even enjoying a packed lunch with views of the Himalayas. After reaching the summit, the descent back to Kathmandu completes a fulfilling day of hiking and adventure, leaving you with memories of the peaceful landscapes and stunning vistas of the Kathmandu Valley.
Why Choose Us – Chingu Treks and Tours
At Chingu Treks and Tours, we are committed to providing an exceptional and personalized hiking experience, and our Shivapuri Day Hiking tour is no exception. Our goal is to offer a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring that your experience is both enjoyable and memorable. From the moment you contact us, our team works with you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences, making sure the hike matches your fitness level and interest. We take pride in offering high-quality service, with experienced and friendly guides who are not only knowledgeable about the trail and the local environment but also passionate about sharing their expertise in the region’s culture, flora, and fauna.
We understand that comfort and safety are essential for an enjoyable hiking experience. That's why we ensure that all logistics, from transportation to the hike itself, are meticulously planned. Our vehicles are clean, safe, and well-maintained, and we ensure that our guests are fully equipped with the necessary gear for the hike. Our experienced guides will lead you at a comfortable pace, ensuring that you can fully enjoy the journey without feeling rushed. We also prioritize the well-being of our guests by ensuring that all accommodations, meals, and rest stops meet the highest standards of comfort and hygiene, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the hike.
Chingu Treks and Tours also places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism. Our Shivapuri Day Hiking tour is designed to respect and support the local communities and environment. We work closely with local guides and communities, ensuring that our tours contribute positively to the local economy and preserve the pristine environment of Shivapuri National Park. We also encourage our guests to interact respectfully with local people, helping them gain a deeper understanding of Nepal’s culture and traditions. When you choose Chingu Treks and Tours for your Shivapuri Day Hiking adventure, you can rest assured that you are not only getting a top-notch hiking experience but also supporting sustainable practices that benefit the people and nature of Nepal.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Full Day Hiking to Shivapuri
Early Morning: Pickup and Drive to Shivapuri Entry Point
Your day of adventure begins early as your guide from Chingu Treks and Tours picks you up from your hotel in Kathmandu. After a quick briefing about the day's hike, you will start your drive toward Shivapuri National Park, located just north of Kathmandu. The drive will take you through the bustling streets of Kathmandu and then into the serene countryside, offering glimpses of local life, terraced fields, and forests as you approach the entrance to Shivapuri.
Shivapuri, at 2,563 meters (8,343 feet), is the second-highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley and a popular destination for a day hike. The park, known for its biodiversity and panoramic views, is a sanctuary for both nature lovers and those seeking spiritual tranquility. As you reach the Shivapuri National Park entry point, you will check in at the entrance office. The park is monitored by the army, so after completing the necessary formalities and permits, you will begin your hike.
7:00 AM: Begin the Hike
The entrance office opens at 7:00 AM, and after completing the check-in process, your hike begins. As you head into the forested trails of Shivapuri National Park, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery, with towering rhododendron trees, oak forests, and vibrant vegetation. The hike offers a refreshing escape from the city, and you will be immersed in the peaceful sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves as you make your way through the park.
The first part of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to acclimate to the increasing elevation. As you trek, you will pass through small streams, rustic bridges, and diverse wildlife habitats. Along the way, your guide will provide insightful information about the local flora, fauna, and the cultural significance of the area.
Lunch: Peak Point with Mountain Views
Around midday, you will arrive at the Peak Point of the hike. This spot, located near the summit, offers a stunning panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding Himalayan mountain range. On clear days, you can see towering peaks such as Langtang, Manaslu, and Gauri Sankar. The view is an incredible reward for your effort. At this point, you will pause for a well-deserved lunch break. Your guide will prepare a packed lunch or guide you to a local tea house if available, where you can relax and refuel while taking in the breathtaking scenery. This is also an excellent time to take photos, soak in the natural beauty, and enjoy the serenity of the location.
Final Hike: Descent and Return to Kathmandu
After lunch and some relaxation, you will begin the final leg of the hike, which involves descending back toward the entrance point. The trail down is a bit easier and quicker than the ascent. As you make your way down, you will continue to enjoy the tranquility of the forest, with glimpses of the valley below. The return journey gives you a different perspective of the landscape, as you wind through the lush greenery and occasionally pass local villages where you can observe rural life up close.
Once you reach the Shivapuri National Park entrance point, your guide will escort you to the vehicle, where you will drive back to Kathmandu. The drive back takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic, and offers one last opportunity to admire the surrounding hills and landscapes before returning to the bustling streets of Kathmandu.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be dropped off at your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the beautiful day spent in nature. This memorable day of hiking offers not only great physical exercise but also a deep sense of connection with the natural beauty of Nepal.