Shivapuri Hiking

Shivapuri Hiking is a popular day hike located near Kathmandu, Nepal. This hike offers a perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the natural beauty of the Shivapuri National Park. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and offers stunning views of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayan range.

The trail starts at the Budhanilkantha Temple, which is a sacred place for Hindus. The trail then passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages before reaching the summit of Shivapuri Hill. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to spot various species of birds and wildlife, including the elusive leopard and the rare Himalayan black bear.

The hike to the summit is relatively easy and can be completed in a day. It is a great option for those looking for a challenging but not overly strenuous hike. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, making it suitable for hikers of all levels.

The hike can be arranged through a tour operator or can be done independently. Many tour operators offer guided tours that include transportation, a local guide, and meals. Independent hikers will need to arrange transportation to the trailhead and should be prepared to carry their own supplies.

In conclusion, Shivapuri Hiking is an excellent day hike near Kathmandu that offers a great opportunity to escape the city and explore the natural beauty of Nepal. It is perfect for those looking for a challenging but not overly strenuous hike and offers stunning views of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayan range.

Best time to Shivapuri Hiking Near Kathmandu:

The best time for Shivapuri hiking depends on personal preference and the type of experience you are looking for.

The best time for clear views of the Himalayan range is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the skies are generally clear, and the visibility is excellent, making it an ideal time for hiking and taking in the stunning mountain views.

The monsoon season runs from June to August, and it can be challenging to hike during this time due to heavy rainfall and muddy trails. However, during this time, the park is lush and green, and the waterfalls are at their fullest.

The winter months of December to February can be quite cold, but the park is still accessible and offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

Overall, the best time to hike Shivapuri will depend on your preferences and what you want to get out of the experience. If you are looking for clear views and perfect weather, the best time to hike would be from September to November and March to May, but if you want to see the park in its greenest form, monsoon season would be the best time.

Weather and temperature during Shivapuri hiking:

The weather during Shivapuri hiking can vary depending on the time of year. The best time for clear views of the Himalayan range and comfortable temperatures is from September to November when temperatures range from 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and drop to around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) at night.

In the monsoon season of June to August, heavy rainfall can make the trails muddy and slippery, while in the winter months of December to February, temperatures can drop below freezing at night. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly before heading out on the hike.

What should I pack for the Shivapuri day hike?

When packing for a day hike in Shivapuri, you should bring the following items:

• Comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes
• A daypack to carry essentials
• Water bottles or hydration system, at least 2-3 liters of water is recommended
• Snacks and energy bars
• First aid kit
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the sun
• A light rain jacket or poncho in case of unexpected weather
• Extra clothes, including warm layers as it can get chilly on the higher elevations
• Camera (optional)
• Map or GPS device (optional)
• A personal ID and cash in case of emergency.

Shivapuri Day hiking Itinerary:

A day hike from Kathmandu to Shivapuri and back can be a great way to escape the city and explore the natural beauty of the Shivapuri National Park.

Here is a suggested itinerary for a one-day hiking trip:

• 6:00 am: Start from Kathmandu and take a bus or taxi to the trailhead at Budhanilkantha Temple.
• 7:00 am: Arrive at the trailhead and begin the hike. The trail passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages before reaching the summit of Shivapuri Hill. Along the way, you may spot various species of birds and wildlife.
• 12:00 pm: Reach the summit of Shivapuri Hill and take in the stunning views of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayan range. Take a break and have lunch at the summit.
• 1:00 pm: Begin the descent back to the trailhead.
• 5:00 pm: Arrive back at the trailhead and take a bus or taxi back to Kathmandu.
• 6:00 pm: Arrive back in Kathmandu and end the hiking.

Please note that the above itinerary is just an estimate and the actual time may vary depending on your hiking pace and trail conditions. It is also recommended to start early in the morning, so as to avoid the heat of the day and to have enough time to complete the hike.