Shivapuri National Park Overview
The Shivapuri National Park was a wildlife reserve and conservation area that covers a total of 159 square kilometers. Originally spanning 144 square kilometers when it was established in 2002, the park was later extended to include the Nagarjun Forest Reserve in 2009, adding an additional 15 square kilometers to its area. The park also includes the Nagarjun Hill, which can be found uphill of Balaju and along the road to Trishuli Bazar.
Shivapuri National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers and trekkers in the valley. It offers a trekking route to popular spots like Nagarkot, Gosaikunda, Helambu, and Langtang National Park. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with hundreds of species to discover. Additionally, the area boasts several historical and religious sites, adding to its cultural significance.
Among the wild inhabitants of the park are Indian leopards, jungle cats, large Indian civets, golden jackals, wild boars, Himalayan black bears, yellow-throated martens, small Asian mongooses, Chinese pangolins, Indian Crested Porcupines, Himalayan picas, black-naped hares, Himalayan squirrels, fawn-colored mice, brown-toothed shrews, and black rats. Additionally, the western part of the park is home to species such as the Monocled Cobra, Himalayan keelback, olive Oriental slender snake, yellow-bellied worm-eating snake, variegated mountain lizard, many-keeled grass skink, Sikkim skink, black spined toad, long-legged cricket frog, and horned frog.
Shivapuri National Park boasts a diverse range of vegetation, including Himalayan subtropical broadleaf forests in the lower and upper subtropical bioclimatic zone, as well as Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests in the lower temperate bioclimatic zone. Visitors can spot a variety of wild Himalayan cherry, Engelhardia, and ring-cupped oak species throughout the park. Additionally, the northern side of the park is home to flourishing rhododendron plants that can be admired along the trails.
Things to do in Shivapuri National Park
Shivapuri National Park offers a plethora of activities to enjoy. Mountain bikers can explore the park's rugged terrain, while hikers can take on the challenge of the uphill hike to Nagi Gumba, a Tibetan monastery located just 3 km from the main gate of Budhanilkantha. The hike offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and is a great way to unwind and relax. For bird watchers, the park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a perfect spot for bird watching. Don't forget to visit Baghdwar, another important holy site, which is a popular destination for many hikers.
If you're looking for outdoor activities near Kathmandu, Nepal, Shivapuri National Park is a great place to start. One popular destination is Chisapani, which can be reached through the park. Another option is the hiking route from Sundarijal, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, you'll pass a water pipeline and a small dam that provides water to the Kathmandu valley. If you need a break, stop at Mulkarkha for some local tea, dumplings, and traditional Nepali dishes like Daal and Bhaat. Just be prepared for a mostly uphill journey!
If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, Shivapuri National Park is the perfect destination. With stunning views of the valley and Langtang range, it's a great place to spend a day hiking and reconnecting with nature. Even if you're a local, it's worth taking a break from city life to explore the park's sprawling trails and wildlife. So pack your hiking gear and get ready for a rejuvenating day in the great outdoors!
Popular Hiking Routes Shivapuri National Park
Chisapani Nagarkot Hike 3 Days
The Chisapani Nagarkot is a short trek that starts in Sundarijal and ends at Chagunarayan Temple. You take a short drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal and start the hike to Chisapani. You will trek to Nagarkot View Point on the next day and end the hike in Chagunarayan Temple on the last day.
Helambu Valley Trek
The Helambu Valley hike is about a 6-7 days trek in the Helambu area. The hike starts in Sundarijal and ends at Melamchi Pul Bazaar. One can experience the culture and lifestyle of locals, and great mountain landscapes on this short trek, and the hiking in Helambu is best suited for families with kids.
Conclusion
The Chivapuri National Park is the smallest & the youngest national park in Nepal. The Park is popular for day hikes and escapes. Contact us if you want to plan day treks in Shivapuri National Park.
