Overview

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park (SNNP) is situated on the north side of Kathmandu valley about 12 kilometers from the down town. It covers parts of Kathmandu, Nuwakot, Sindhupalchowk and Dhading districts of central Nepal and elevation ranges from 960 (Narsingh Ghat) to 2732 (Shivapuri peak) from msl. Out of 20 protected areas of Nepal, it is the only protected area that falls entirely within the middle mountain range of central Nepal and represents its biodiversity. Initially, Shivapuri National Park was gazetted in 2002 with an area of 144 km2. Later in 2009, it was renamed as Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park (SNNP) after the addition of 15 km2 Nagarjun Forest patch.

SHIVAPURI NAGARJUN NATIONAL PARK MAJOR HIKING ROUTES

Nagarkot-Jhule-Chisapani
Sundarijal-Manichur-Jhule-Chisapani
Sundarijal-Mulkharka-Chisapani
Sundarijal-Mulkharka-Shivapuri
Panimuhan-Nagigumba-Baghdwar-Shivapuri Peak
Panimuhan-Bagdwar-Shivapuri Peak
Panimuhan-Chhapbhanjyang-Shivapuri Peak
Panimuhan-Chhapbhanjyang-Sikre
Panimuhan-Baghdwar-Rholche-Chisapani
Tokha-Jagat-Gurjebhanjyang-GurungGaun
Kakani-Gurje-Chhapbhanjyang-Shivapuri Peak
Panimuhan-Gurjebhanjyang-Kakani
Fulbari Gate-Jamacho

Overview of the Shivapuri Day Hiking

A great day hike near Kathmandu to observe the Langtang Himalayan range and take in the surrounding scenery is Shivapuri Day Hike. In addition to providing water resources for Kathmandu residents, the Shivapuri National Park is home to thousands of species of flora and fauna, making it a haven for avian enthusiasts. After Fulchowki, the Shivapuri is the second-highest hill station in the Kathmandu Valley. The hill’s elevation and location make it the ideal place to view the Langtang Himalayan range. From this location, the Langtang Himalayan range is distinctly visible, making it a popular destination for travelers.

If the day is particularly clear, mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Langtang-Lirung, Dorji Lhakpa, and many more peaks can be seen from this location. Due to its accent, the hike is difficult, with several stairs leading to Shivpuri’s summit.

The hike begins in Muhanpani, which is quite close to the Budhanilkantha temple, and continues down the road until it reaches Nagi Gompa, which is home to hundreds of monks living and studying. Baghdwar is a location along the Shivaapuri Peaks route. This is the source of the sacred Bagmati River, which flows close to Pashupatinath, a sacred pilgrimage site. Along with Mt. Gaurishanker, additional peaks that can be seen from the summit of Shivapuri include Mt. Ganesh Himal, Mt. Langtang Lirung, Mt. Langtang Ri, Ganjala Peak, Dorje Lakpa, and numerous others.

HIGHLIGHTS OF SHIVAPURI NAGARJUN NATIONAL PARK

A region of the rich biodiversity of the mid-hill region
An important biological corridor that links north-south corridors
An Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA)
A major source of freshwater for the Kathmandu valley and buffer zone, fulfilling about 50 percent surface water demand.
One of the major tourist destinations near the capital city
Watershed conservation of Bagmati, Bishnumati, Trishuli and Indrabati river
A sink for the air pollution generated by the Kathmandu Valley
A site for conservation education for students and researchers