Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Hike
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a beautiful protected area located on the northern edge of Kathmandu Valley and is one of the most popular hiking destinations near the city. Established in 2002, the park protects dense forests, wildlife, rivers, and important water sources that supply Kathmandu Valley. The park is divided into the Shivapuri and Nagarjun forest regions and is home to animals such as Himalayan black bears, leopards, barking deer, wild boars, and many species of birds. The hike through the park offers peaceful forest trails, fresh mountain air, Buddhist monasteries like Nagi Gompa, and sacred sites such as Bagdwar, the source of the Bagmati River. From Shivapuri Peak (2,732m), hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and several Himalayan mountains including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, and sometimes even Manaslu on very clear days. The combination of natural beauty, cultural importance, wildlife, and stunning Himalayan scenery makes Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park one of the best short hiking experiences in Nepal.