Shivapuri day hike | Guided Trekking Tours in Nepal: Adventure Awaits

Overview
Itinerary
FAQ
review

difficulty
Easy
Trip Style
Group
Start in
Kathmandu
end in
Kathmandu
group size
2-5
max altitude
2563m
Best Season
September- June

Overview

Table of Contents

What is Shivapuri Day Hike?

The Shivapuri day hike is a rejuvenating one day trekking adventure located just 30 minutes from Kathmandu, offering travelers an escape into pristine nature within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. This accessible hiking experience in Nepal combines cultural exploration at Budhanilkantha Temple and Nangi Gompa monastery with breathtaking Himalayan views, making it the perfect introduction to trekking for beginners and a stress-relieving excursion for seasoned travelers.

The Budhanilkantha Shivapuri Nangi Gompa day hike traverses through oak and rhododendron forests, ascending to 2,340m at Nangi Gompa, where Buddhist nuns (Annis) practice meditation in peaceful surroundings. The trail showcases 177 bird species, rare orchids, and diverse wildlife including leopards, bears, and monkeys.

For those seeking professional trekking guidance in Nepal, this hike provides an authentic taste of Himalayan trekking without requiring extended time commitments or advanced fitness levels.

Why Choose Shivapuri Day Hike ?

Physical and Mental Wellness Benefits

The Shivapuri day hike offers exceptional stress relief and mental rejuvenation just 45 minutes from Kathmandu’s urban chaos.

– Immediate nature immersion through primary forest ecosystems

– Meditation opportunities at Nangi Gompa monastery with Buddhist nuns

– Acclimatization preparation for trekkers planning longer Himalayan expeditions

– Physical fitness testing to gauge readiness for multi-day treks

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Trip highlights

– Nangi Gompa Monastery – Visit the peaceful Buddhist nunnery and meditate with Annis.

– Himalayan Panoramas – Stunning views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, and surrounding peaks.

– Oak & Rhododendron Forests – Walk through lush forests filled with vibrant flora and rare orchids.

– Wildlife & Birdwatching – Spot exotic birds (177 species), monkeys, leopards, and other wildlife in Shivapuri National Park.

– See the sacred river originate in the pristine park environment.

– Stress Relief & Nature Immersion

– Easy & Accessible Hike – Only 4–5 hours, making it suitable for beginners and short on-time treks.

– Cultural Experience – Explore Budhanilkantha Temple before starting the hike and experience local religious heritage.

itinerary

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day 1
Budhanilkantha Nangi Gompa Shivapuri Hiking
06:30 AM – Hotel Pickup Licensed guide from Tour Guide in Nepal collects you from Kathmandu hotels or designated meeting points. Brief orientation on the day’s activities during the 30-45 minute drive.
07:15 AM – Budhanilkantha Temple Visit Explore the stunning Narayanthan Temple complex featuring the 5-meter reclining Vishnu sculpture. Non-Hindus view from the outer courtyard while appreciating intricate stone carvings and morning devotional rituals.
07:45 AM – Panimuhan Entrance Gate Guide completes Shivapuri National Park registration and permit processing. Trail briefing covers:
- Expected wildlife sightings
- Rest stop locations
- Emergency procedures
- Cultural etiquette at Nangi Gompa
08:00 AM – Hike Begins
09:00 AM – Forest Immersion
10:00 AM – Nangi Gompa Arrival
10:15 AM – Monastery Exploration
10:45 AM – Viewpoint and Lunch
12:00 PM – Descent Begins Return journey follows the same forested path, now descending. Downhill walking typically take
s 1.5 hours to park entrance.
01:30 PM – Panimuhan Gate Exit Check out with park authorities and board waiting vehicle.
02:00 PM – Return to Kathmandu Driver navigates back to your hotel with afternoon free for rest or exploration of
other activities in Nepal.
Alternative Itinerary Options
Extended Route via Sundarijal
Dawn Departure: Start at 5:00 AM to witness sunrise from Nangi Gompa, returning to Kathmandu by 11:00 AM.
Meditation Focus: Extended stay at Nangi Gompa with guided meditation sessions led by resident nuns.
Professional hiking guides in Nepal customize itineraries based on fitness levels, interests, and time constraints.

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FAQ

Is the Budhanilkantha to Nangi Gompa Shivapuri day hike suitable for beginners and first-time hikers?
Yes, the Budhanilkantha to Nangi Gompa Shivapuri day hike is suitable for beginners and first-time hikers. The trail is well-marked, the difficulty level is easy, and the hike takes around 4–5 hours at a comfortable pace, making it ideal for people with basic fitness and limited hiking experience.
How long does the Budhanilkantha Nangi Gompa Shivapuri hike take, and what is the total elevation gain?
The hike typically takes 4 to 5 hours in total, including breaks. It starts from Budhanilkantha and reaches a maximum altitude of 2,563 meters at Shivapuri Hill, with an approximate elevation gain of 700–800 meters, depending on the chosen route.
What is the best time of year to do the Budhanilkantha Nangi Gompa Shivapuri day hike?
The best time to do this hike is from September to June. Spring (March–May) offers rhododendron blooms and clear views, while autumn (September–November) provides the best mountain visibility. Winter hikes are also possible, though mornings can be cold. Monsoon season is less ideal due to slippery trails.
Do I need permits or a guide for the Shivapuri National Park and Nangi Gompa hike?
Yes, an entrance permit for Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is required and can be obtained at the park gate. A guide is not mandatory but is highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors, as guides help with navigation, park regulations, safety, and provide cultural and natural insights.
What are the main highlights and viewpoints of the Budhanilkantha Nangi Gompa Shivapuri hike?
Key highlights include the peaceful Nangi Gompa monastery, dense forests of oak and rhododendron, wildlife and birdwatching opportunities, freshwater streams, and panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. On clear days, hikers can also see Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Gaurishankar ranges from higher viewpoints.
what is the Shivapuri hiking distance from Budhanilkantha
The Shivapuri hike from Budhanilkantha covers roughly 18-20 kilometers round trip, taking about 6-8 hours to complete, ascending through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to Shivapuri Peak (2,732m) and back, with popular stops at Nagi Gompa and Baghdwar.
Is Shivapuri safe for solo female hikers?
It’s Great for Solo Women: The hike is in a national park conservation zone, with established trails and limited presence of park staff, which provides an additional sense of security.