Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

The Basics

The park is named after Mt. Shivapuri, which at 8,963 feet (2,732 meters) is one of the tallest of the hills surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. Anywhere else in the world, climbing a mountain of that height would be a serious undertaking, but in Nepal it’s a fairly easy day hike! The park is also home to birds and wildlife (including leopards), monasteries, and the source of the Bagmati River that runs through Kathmandu, at Baghdwar.

Travelers usually visit the park on day hikes or bike rides from Kathmandu, either with a guide or independently. Some longer treks around the valley can include the park, as it is connected to longer-distance trails.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The park is technically called the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, but the smaller Nagarjun section to the west is not connected to the Shivapuri section, and it is less frequently visited.

• There is an entrance fee (cheaper for Nepalis), and visitors must register in a log book at the gates.

• Many of the paths throughout the park are well-maintained and easy to find.

• Topographical maps that include the park are available in Kathmandu. Alternatively, take a photo of the map sign boards at the entrance of the park.

• They’re unlikely to pose much of a threat to visitors, but leopards do live in the park and residents of villages surrounding the park frequently encounter them at night.

How to Get There

Shivapuri National Park is easily accessible from Kathmandu. The main gate is just north of Budhanilkantha, 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of central Kathmandu. Reach Budhanilkantha on the large green Sajha Yatayat buses that stop at Kantipath in central Kathmandu and travel on to Budhanilkantha. To save time, take a taxi there from anywhere in Kathmandu. From Thamel it will take 20–40 minutes, depending on traffic.

When to Get There

The park is open roughly from dawn until dusk. For the best views of Kathmandu and Mt. Shivapuri, visit between October and February, as the skies are clearest during fall and winter.

Visit the Budhanilkantha Temple

Budhanilkantha is just to the south of the main entrance to the Shivapuri National Park. It’s famous for its large reclining Shiva statue at the Budhanilkantha Temple. The 16-foot (5-meter) reclining stone Vishnu statue is believed to have been made in the fifth century. It’s the largest stone statue in Nepal, and it’s unusual because the god is lying down. It’s definitely worth a visit, whether you’re continuing on to the park or not.

What makes Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park such a popular destination for visitors in Nepal?

Located just seven miles (12 kilometers) north of the capital, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a lush nature reserve situated on the forested slopes of the Kathmandu Valley. It’s famous for its pristine rivers, stunning hilly scenery, and trekking routes. The national park is also a hub for bird conservation.

What are the main ways to experience Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park?

Visitors will find numerous hiking trails that crisscross Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, while nature-lovers can also soak up the scenery while camping or bird-watching. A few popular day treks include panoramic Shivapura peak, which starts in Budhanilkantha, the Chisapani route beginning in Sundarijal, and Nagarjuna, also a pilgrimage trail.

What kinds of flora and fauna can visitors spot within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park?

Expect to cross through forests of Rhododendron (the national flower of Nepal) and misty jungle scenery. The national park is home to mammals, such as the Himalayan black bear and jungle cat, plus almost 200 varieties of birds. Aspiring mycologists, rejoice: You’ll find 129 kinds of mushroom here as well.

Where can visitors learn about the cultural and religious significance of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park?

While Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park’s biggest draw tends to be the stunning natural setting, Shivapuri—as the name would suggest—is also significant to Hindus and is home to several temples and Buddhist monasteries. Anyone looking to learn more about Nepal’s traditional faith systems can attend a festival or book a meditation retreat.

What kinds of transport options are there linking Kathmandu and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park?

Visitors won’t find any direct public transport links, but it is very easy to hire a taxi from Kathmandu to the gates of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park—or nearby Sundarijal or Nagarkot, where lodges, homestays, and hotels are located. You can also take a local bus to Budhanilkantha and hike from there.

Are there any hidden gems within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park that travelers shouldn’t miss?

It’s not exactly a hidden gem, as the spot is very popular with locals, but Bagdwar is both a spiritual and picturesque location in the valley. The source of the Bagmati River, it’s considered sacred by Nepalis, who come here to bathe in the holy waters. Getting there requires a short forest hike.