Kathmandu: Shivapuri National Park Top Day Hike With Lunch

Explore the stunning Shivapuri National Park on a top day hike from Kathmandu. This moderate 7-hour trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas. Spot vibrant wildlife and visit the serene Budhanilkantha Temple along the way. For just $30 per person, you’ll get round-trip hotel transfers, a packed lunch, and a local guide to make the most of your adventure. Don’t miss the chance to learn about the natural beauty of this captivating region.

Key Points

• A 7-hour moderate hike in Shivapuri National Park offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and Himalayan ranges.
• The hike includes a visit to the Budhanilkantha Temple, a cultural landmark featuring a massive reclining statue of Lord Vishnu.
• Travelers can spot vibrant birdlife along the well-maintained trails and potentially catch glimpses of iconic peaks like Everest and Annapurna.
• The tour package includes round-trip hotel transfers, national park entry fees, a packed lunch, and local guide services.
• The hike is priced at $30 per person, providing a transparent breakdown of inclusions for easier budget planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of Shivapuri National Park Top Day Hike

The Shivapuri National Park Top Day Hike offers adventurous travelers an opportunity to explore the lush forests and scenic vistas of one of Nepal’s premier protected areas.

Covering a duration of 7 hours, the hike features a moderate climb along well-maintained trails. Highlights include stunning panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the distant Himalayan ranges, as well as an encounter with the Budhanilkantha Temple, a cultural landmark.

Priced affordably at $30 per person, the tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, park entry fees, a packed lunch, and the services of a knowledgeable local guide.

Exploring the Hiking Trail

Embarking on the Shivapuri National Park Top Day Hike, trekkers can expect a moderate yet rewarding journey through lush, well-maintained trails. The trail features a gradual incline, offering stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayan range. Along the way, hikers may spot colorful birds, including pheasants, parakeets, and hornbills, adding to the enchanting experience.

| Trail Features | Wildlife | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Moderate climb | Colorful birds | Scenic valley views |

| Well-maintained trails | Pheasants, parakeets, hornbills | Budhanilkantha Temple |

| Lush forests | – | Potential Everest and Annapurna views |

The hike culminates at the Budhanilkantha Temple, a cultural landmark that adds to the richness of the experience. With the opportunity to witness the majestic Himalayan peaks on a clear day, the Shivapuri National Park Top Day Hike promises an unforgettable adventure.

Discovering Budhanilkantha Temple

As hikers ascend towards the top of Shivapuri National Park, they encounter the captivating Budhanilkantha Temple, a cultural landmark that enriches the overall hiking experience.

This ancient Hindu temple features a massive reclining statue of Lord Vishnu carved from a single piece of black basalt. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship of this 5th century sculpture.

The temple’s serene atmosphere and scenic setting amidst the lush greenery provide a peaceful respite from the hike. Exploring this historic site offers a unique cultural perspective, complementing the natural wonders of the national park.

Taking in the Natural Beauty

Leaving the cultural wonder of Budhanilkantha Temple behind, hikers eagerly enjoy the natural beauty of Shivapuri National Park.

The well-maintained trails wind through lush, verdant forests teeming with vibrant birdlife. Colorful pheasants, parakeets, and hornbills dart among the canopy, adding to the serene ambiance.

The steady climb offers stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan ranges. On clear days, the iconic peaks of Everest and Annapurna come into view, providing a breathtaking backdrop.

Hikers soak in the tranquility, rejuvenated by the park’s natural splendor.

More Great Tours Nearby

Essential Inclusions and Exclusions

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable hiking experience, the tour package includes round-trip hotel transfers, national park entry fees, a packed lunch, and the services of a local professional guide.

The inclusions cover the essential aspects of the hike, allowing travelers to focus on exploring the natural beauty of Shivapuri National Park.

Meanwhile, the exclusions comprise:

1. Food and drinks beyond the provided lunch box

2. Personal expenses

3. Tips and gratuities for the driver and guide

4. Items not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions

This transparent breakdown of inclusions and exclusions allows travelers to plan their budgets accordingly.

Important Tips for Preparation

1. Preparing for the Shivapuri National Park day hike requires some essential items and planning. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, hikers should pack the following:

| Item | Importance | Tip |

| — | — | — |

| Sturdy Hiking Shoes | Essential | Break them in before the hike |

| Water Bottle | Critical | Bring at least 1 liter |

| Snacks | Recommended | Pack high-energy foods |

| Rain Jacket | Useful | Check the weather forecast |

Travelers should also arrive at the pickup location on time and bring their passport or ID for the national park entry. Following these simple tips will help maximize the enjoyment of this incredible hiking adventure.

Reviewing the Hiking Experience

While the earlier preparation tips are important, the true reward of the Shivapuri National Park day hike lies in the hiking experience itself.

Trekkers can expect:

1. A moderate, well-maintained trail through lush, verdant forests, offering opportunities to spot colorful birds like pheasants, parakeets, and hornbills.

2. Stunning panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the majestic Himalayan range, including potential glimpses of Everest and Annapurna on clear days.

3. An enriching cultural encounter at the iconic Budhanilkantha Temple, a revered landmark nestled in the park.

4. A sense of accomplishment from the moderate climb, complemented by the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hiking Trail Suitable for Children?

The hiking trail is moderately challenging and may not be suitable for young children. However, older children with good fitness levels can likely complete the hike with proper supervision and preparation.

Can I Bring My Pet Along on the Hike?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the hiking trail for safety and conservation reasons. The hike is intended for human participants only. Bringing pets would not be permitted and could disrupt the experience for other hikers.

Is There an Option to Extend the Hiking Duration?

Unfortunately, there is no option to extend the hiking duration for this specific tour. The itinerary is fixed at 6 hours of hiking. Customers should consider booking a multi-day trekking package if they’d like a longer hiking experience.

Can I Customize the Lunch Menu to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, the company accommodates dietary restrictions. Customers can customize the lunch menu by informing the guide about any specific dietary needs or preferences when booking the activity.

What Is the Weather Like During the Hike?

The weather is generally pleasant during the hike, with mild temperatures and low chances of precipitation. Hikers should expect clear skies and sunshine, though occasional cloud cover may occur. Dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate any shifts in the weather.

The Sum Up

Exploring Shivapuri National Park on a top day hike from Kathmandu offers an unparalleled chance to immerse in the region’s natural beauty. The moderate climb rewards trekkers with stunning panoramic views, sightings of diverse wildlife, and a visit to the serene Budhanilkantha Temple. With convenient round-trip transfers, a packed lunch, and local guide services, this $30 package provides an exceptional value for a memorable outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: