Shivapuri Nagi Gumba Hike

The Shivapuri Nagi Gumba hike is a short trek that draws folks in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Its lies north side of the Kathmandu Valley. Thing is, it works well for hikers who want some nature and a touch of spirituality. They get those big views too. All without heading too far from the city. The path winds through thick green forests. You pass calm monasteries along the way. Then there are the spots up high that overlook the Himalayas. They also give sights down into the valley.

The Shivapuri Hike is one of the most popular day hikes near Kathmandu attracting both domestic and international travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Rising at an elevation of 2,732 meters, Shivapuri Hill is the second-highest peak around Kathmandu Valley after Phulchowki. Located inside the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, this hike is the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, spiritual sites and himalayan views.

If you love being out in nature or you are into trekking or just need a break to feel fresh again, this hike gives you something good. No need to plan a big multi day trip or anything like that. The time it takes for the hike depends on which path you pick and how fast you walk. Usually from Budhanilkantha where you start it runs about 4 to 7 hours to go up to the top and back down. For a shorter option it is 4 to 5 hours. That works if you want something quick and not too much. The full day version is 6 to 7 hours. You can wander more in the woods stop by monasteries and take longer rests along the way.

That kind of choice means Shivapuri fits for easy going walkers and also for people who do this stuff all the time. Most folks start out in the morning say, between 7 and 9 AM. They aim to hit the summit by noon and head down in the afternoon so it is all easy. If you like adventure more there is a night hike option. You see the stars up close and the lights from Kathmandu twinkling below. Still you better go with guides who know what they are doing and pack right for it. Up at 2,732 meters the hill gives you big wide views of the Langtang Range and Ganesh Himal. You may spot Dorje Lakpa too. On really clear days even Mount Everest shows up way off.

The path goes through thick forests full of oak trees, pine and rhododendrons blooming in spots. The park has all kinds of animals like black bears from the Himalayas, wild pigs and monkeys. Leopards hang around sometimes. Over 300 kinds of birds are found making it great for watching them or just enjoying the wild side.

The difficulty level is moderate for Shivapuri. The trail has marks so you do not get lost and it stays pretty safe. Some parts get steep though. You need decent energy and fitness to handle it. Beginners in Nepal hiking can manage it. Experienced ones like it for a quick trip close to the city. The climb up begins slow and steady not as tough as the long treks to Everest Base Camp or around Annapurna. But the views make it worth every step.

You usually start the hike at Budhanilkantha. That is about 10 km north from the middle of Kathmandu. The place has a big temple for Sleeping Vishnu. A huge stone statue of the god lies on a snake bed in a pond. Pilgrims go there all the time. From there you arrive to the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park at the main gate. Pay a little fee whether you are local or from abroad. Then you are off to a journey.

You can hike Shivapuri any time of year pretty much. In autumn from September to November the skies stay clear. Mountains look sharp and the air is nice. Spring in March to May works great too. Rhododendrons bloom everywhere and the weather stays pleasant. Winter December through February gets cold in mornings and nights. Dress warm but it is still okay. Monsoon June to August makes everything green and lush. Trails turn muddy and slick though. Go in autumn or spring for the top experience.

Some key things stand out on the Shivapuri hike.

The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park protects a ton of plants and animals.

You get those wide Himalayan views with Langtang and Ganesh Himal and Dorje Lakpa in sight.

At Budhanilkantha Temple you start with some cultural and spiritual feel.

Biodiversity shines with over 300 bird types and other wildlife to spot.

It feels like a quiet break from Kathmandu. Just a short ride away but seems far off.

Tips for the trip.

You need a permit and entry fee at the park gate. Rates differ for Nepalis and others.

To get there take a car or bus from Thamel or city center. About 30 minutes.

Pack hiking shoes that feel good. Bring water and snacks. A light jacket sunscreen and maybe poles if you like.

You can go alone but a local guide adds info on plants animals and the area culture. Makes it better.

Why pick Shivapuri.

It gives a day hike close to Kathmandu with nature and culture mixed in.

Himalayan sights without days of trekking.

Moderate level fits different fitness.

Good way to start Nepal treks before bigger ones.

The Shivapuri hike turns out to be the perfect mix of nature, culture and some adventure all in one day. The 2,732 meter top through forest paths and starting at that spiritual temple in Budhanilkantha with panaromic Himalayan views inspire awe.  Whether its solo or with friends or family, the Shivapuri hike delivers fresh memories. Trails open all year. Choices for short or longer paths make it just right for anyone around Kathmandu Valley.