Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

शिवपुरी नागार्जुन राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज

Nepal's first national park protecting the forested hills north of Kathmandu Valley, featuring trekking routes, diverse flora and fauna, and panoramic mountain views from Shivapuri peak. It offers accessible yet rewarding day hikes and is crucial for water supply to the Kathmandu Valley.

Things to do

• Shivapuri Peak Trek — Climb to the 2,732-meter summit for panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding Himalayan ranges, typically a 5-6 hour round trip from Budhanilkantha.
• Nagarjun Cave Visit — Explore the sacred Buddhist cave situated on the western ridge with meditation chambers and a viewpoint overlooking the valley below.
• Budhanilkantha Temple Trek — Visit the 5th-century reclining Vishnu statue in the sacred pool at the park's southern entrance, then continue upward on forest trails.
• Forest Bird Watching — Search for pheasants, eagles, owls, and over 50 bird species while walking through pine and rhododendron forests, best in early morning.
• Jamacho Hill Trek — A moderate 4-hour trek to this forested hilltop offering views of Kathmandu and access to Nagarjun Cave from the northern approach.
• Waterfall Hike to Sundarijal — Trek through rhododendron forests descending to Sundarijal waterfall and dam at the park's eastern boundary, ideal for a full-day outing.

Food to try

• Dal Bhat — A staple Nepali meal of rice with lentil soup, typically served at teahouses and lodges along trekking routes with fresh local vegetables.
• Momo — Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, commonly found at rest stops and village establishments around the park.
• Chiura and Tareko — Flattened rice eaten with spiced potato curry, a light breakfast option available at early-morning teahouses near the main trailheads.
• Gundruk Soup — A tangy soup made from fermented leafy greens, warming and nutritious after cold mountain air, served at local lodges.
• Sel Roti — A sweet rice flour circle bread fried until crispy, sold by vendors near Budhanilkantha Temple and at village shops around the park.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Temple Sanctity — Remove shoes before entering Budhanilkantha Temple and other sacred sites; observe a quieter demeanor in meditation areas and around devotional spaces.
• Greet with Namaste — Use the traditional palms-pressed greeting when meeting locals or villagers; this shows respect and is warmly appreciated throughout Nepal.
• Hire Local Guides — Employing guides from nearby communities supports the local economy and provides safer navigation while sharing stories of the region's history and wildlife.
• Pack Out All Waste — The park protects Kathmandu's water supply; carry out all garbage and avoid leaving any trace to preserve this vital ecosystem.

Nearby

• Kakani (Eastern Hills) — 2 km
• Sundarijal — 2 km
• Chisapani (Eastern Hills) — 6 km
• Nuwakot Fortress — 12 km