Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park (159 sq km) is situated on the northern fringe of Kathmandu valley and lies about 12 km away from the center of capital city. The area was gazetted as the country’s ninth national park in 2002. Prior its declaration as national park, it was managed under the Shivapuri Watershed Development Board, and was later declared as Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve.

Shivapuri lies in a transition zone between subtropical and temperate climates. The vegetation consists of a variety of natural forest types including pine, oak, rhododendron etc, depending on altitude and aspect. Recorded wildlife in the park includes mammalian species such as Himalayan Black bear, leopard, jungle cat, and rhesus monkey. The park is also home to 177 species of birds, including at least 9 threatened species, 102 species of butterflies with a number of rare and endangered species, and 129 species of mushroom.

Shivapuri is one of the main sources of drinking water for Kathmandu Valley. Everyday about 30 million liters of water is tapped from rivers such as the Bagmati and the Bishnumati as well as from several other smaller streams.

The park is easily accessible from Kathmandu. Visitors are attracted to the park for trekking. Trekking routes to Nagarkot, Gosaikunda, Helambu and Langtang National Park also pass through the park. Several religious sites for the Hindus and the Buddhists lie inside the park. On Nepalese New Year’s Day, which falls in mid-April, pilgrims from Kathmandu valley and neighboring areas flock to Baghdwar and Bishnudwar of the park from where the sacred rivers Bagmati and Bishnumatii originate. Visitors can have breathtaking views of the high Himalayas from the northern aspects of the park. Likewise, the panoramic views of Kathmandu valley could be seen from the southern slopes of the park.

The hike offers lush greenery, dense forests, and a variety of flora and fauna. Rhododendron forests are particularly stunning in spring. The spring water flows along the way in many places which vibes the cold temperature as the water is freezing cold.

The park is home to various species of birds, butterflies, and mammals. It’s a great spot for bird-watching. Shivapuri National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife.
Wild Boars: Commonly roam the park, displaying their robust and adaptable nature as large, omnivorous mammals.
Tigers: Shivapuri National Park provides a habitat for majestic big cats, making it an essential conservation area for their survival, even though they are rare and elusive.
Monkeys: Different species of monkeys, langurs, and rhesus macaques, commonly in the park, add to the vibrant biodiversity.
Deer: You can see various deer species, including spotted deer and barking deer, grazing in the park’s grasslands and forests.
Birds: Birdwatchers find the park a haven, with a rich diversity of avian species, from colorful pheasants and vibrant parakeets to majestic eagles and hawks.
Himalayan Black Bears: Although you see them less commonly, these elusive bears inhabit the dense forests of the park.
Leopards: Leopards also reside in Shivapuri National Park but you rarely spot them due to their solitary and secretive nature.
Small Mammals: The park is home to various small mammals, including martens, civets, and porcupines, among others.
Reptiles and Amphibians: The park’s diverse ecosystems support various reptile and amphibian species, contributing to its rich biodiversity.
Butterflies and Insects: Shivapuri National Park is teeming with a wide variety of butterflies and insects, further enhancing its natural beauty.

Along the trail, you will come across monasteries, Gompa and stupas, adding a spiritual element to the hike.

Shivapuri Peak stands at 2,732 meters (8,963 feet) & provides a serene spot to relax and take in the surroundings.

People consider the water flowing in the Bagmati River holy and use it for cultural and ritual ceremonies at the many significant temples along its banks. The river flows through Kathmandu which is the administrative and economic center of the country as well as Nepal’s gateway for tourism.

Biodiversity Conservation: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is rich in biodiversity. Preserving this area helps protect numerous species of plants and animals, some of which are rare and endangered.

Water Source: The park is a crucial watershed area for the Kathmandu Valley, supplying water to the valley’s residents.

Cultural Heritage: Cultural and religious sites, important to local communities, dot the area. Preservation helps maintain these cultural heritages.

Tourism and Education: The park serves as an important location for ecotourism and environmental education. It provides an opportunity for people to learn about nature and the importance of conservation.

Climate Regulation: The forested area plays a significant role in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Permits: For Shivapuri day hike, obtain the necessary permit to enter the Shivapuri National Park from park entrance.
Preparation: Carry sufficient water, and snacks, and wear appropriate day hiking gear.
Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles. Do not litter and respect wildlife.
Local Guidance: Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience and to support the local economy. Remember that you cannot do a day hike inside Shivapuri National Park without an experienced guide because of the potentially hazardous wildlife.

Wear comfortable underwear, a base layer, and a windproof jacket
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and socks
Rain jacket (as per the weather)
Backpack
Reusable water bottle
Hiking pole (optional)
Sun hat
Sunglasses
SPF and lip balm
Some snacks like chocolates, nuts, fruit, etc
Camera, power bank, mobile, etc
Toiletries and small first aid kit (tissue paper, band-aid, insect repellant, etc)

Trail: The trail is well-marked and passes through dense forests, streams, and Nagi Gombu. The nunnery lies below the daunting Tara Bir Cliff, which is sacred to the female buddha of compassion. Tara is practiced daily by all the nuns

Difficulty: Moderate accessible for most hikers. Required a reasonable level of fitness due to the elevation gain and some steep sections

Tea house: A small break place for tea after the steep walk for 2 or 3 hours from the entry point. The place is peace with small tea house, stupa and monastry where one monk stays for meditation and to look after the monastry. And on the other hand the tea house is owned by the Baba.