Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park | Kathmandu

Information

Landmark: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
City: Kathmandu
Country: Nepal
Continent: Asia

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Kathmandu, Nepal, Asia

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a 159-square-kilometer protected area situated on the northern fringe of the Kathmandu Valley. Established in 2002, it serves as the primary watershed for the city and is the ninth national park in Nepal.

Visual Characteristics

The landscape is dominated by high-altitude ridges, dense broadleaf and coniferous forests, and numerous freshwater springs. The park's highest point, Shivapuri Peak, reaches 2,732 meters. Architectural features within the park include the Nagi Gumba nunnery and several historic shrines.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is located approximately 12 kilometers north of central Kathmandu. The primary entrance is the Budhanilkantha Gate (Muhan Pokhari), accessible via a 30-minute drive or taxi from Thamel. Another entry point is at Panimuhan. Visitors must purchase an entry permit at the gate; current fees are approximately 1,000 NPR for international tourists and 100 NPR for Nepali citizens. Mandatory guide requirements apply for certain trails.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Originally established as a watershed and wildlife reserve, the area was upgraded to a national park to protect the valley's water supply and preserve the unique mid-hill ecosystem. It is home to diverse fauna, including leopards, Himalayan black bears, wild boars, and over 300 species of birds. The flora primarily consists of oak, rhododendron, and pine.

Key Highlights & Activities

Shivapuri Peak Hike: A popular 5–7 hour round-trip trek to the summit offering panoramic views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges.

Nagi Gumba: A peaceful Buddhist nunnery located on the hillside, popular for meditation and short walks.

Bishnudwara & Baghdora: The sacred sources of the Bishnumati and Bagmati rivers.

Mountain Biking: Designated trails are available for off-road cycling, particularly on the lower slopes.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park features marked hiking trails, occasional stone-paved steps, and resting shelters. Amenities are minimal once inside the forest; visitors must carry their own water and food. Public restrooms are available near the entrance gates. Cellular signals (4G) are generally available at lower elevations but become intermittent toward the peaks.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily from 07:00 to 17:00. The optimal months are October to December for clear mountain visibility and March to May for blooming rhododendrons. During the monsoon (June–August), trails can be slippery and leeches are common.

Facts & Legends

Shivapuri is considered the abode of Lord Shiva in local Hindu tradition, and the Baghdora spring is believed to emerge from a tiger's mouth (Bagh-dora). A logistical fact: plastic bottles and alcohol are strictly prohibited within the park boundaries to maintain ecological integrity.