Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park,Nepal

• Shivapuri Peak (2,732 m) — the park's highest point with panoramic views of the Himalaya and Kathmandu Valley
• Baghdwar — an important spring and a popular trailhead; considered the main source of Kathmandu's water supply
• Sundarijal — waterfalls and hydro-sources, common starting point for hikes
• Nagarjun Hill and monastery areas — scenic viewpoints, forest trails and Buddhist retreat centers
• Biodiversity spots — areas rich in birdlife and wildlife sightings along forested ridgelines and valleys

• Close proximity to Kathmandu (easy half-day or full-day trips from the city)
• Varied elevation gradient (approx. 1,360 m to 2,732 m) creating diverse habitats from subtropical to temperate forest
• High bird diversity (resident and migratory species) and presence of mammals such as rhesus macaque, langur, Himalayan palm civet, barking deer, wild boar and occasional leopard and Himalayan black bear
• Well-marked trekking routes, picnic sites and religious sites integrated within natural settings

• Hiking and day-treks — popular routes from Sundarijal, Budhanilkantha or Tokha to Shivapuri peak and Nagarjun
• Birdwatching — early mornings and migratory seasons are best for spotting diverse species
• Wildlife viewing and photography — forest trails and ridgelines provide opportunities
• Pilgrimage and cultural visits — visit monasteries, shrines and local spiritual sites
• Picnicking and short nature walks — accessible trails near entry points suitable for families

September to November (clear skies, post-monsoon) and March to May (spring rhododendron blooms) are the best windows; winter offers crisp views but colder conditions and occasional snow at higher elevations.

Temperate to cool conditions depending on elevation. Daytime is milder; mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially above 2,000 m. Monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and slippery trails.

The park has regulated entry points with nominal fees and possible permits; fees differ for Nepali residents and foreign visitors. Typical visiting hours are daytime (dawn to late afternoon). Confirm current fees and opening hours with the Department of National Parks & Wildlife Conservation or local park office before travel.

Located on the northern rim of Kathmandu Valley, roughly 10–20 km from central Kathmandu depending on the entry point. Common access points: Sundarijal, Budhanilkantha, Baghdwar, Nagarjun (from Chandragiri Road area). The nearest major transport hub is Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu). Public buses, taxis, or private vehicles can reach trailheads; expect short hikes up from parking/roadheads.

For most visitors: 1 day (short hikes from Sundarijal or Baghdwar) to 2 days for more extensive trekking and sunrise/sunset viewpoints. Multi-day stays possible if combining with nearby cultural visits in Kathmandu.

Layered clothing (breathable base layers, warm mid-layer, waterproof outer layer during monsoon), sturdy hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit. Bring water, snacks, and trekking poles if you plan steeper sections.

Nearby settlements and Sundarijal/Budhanilkantha areas offer simple tea shops (local chiya), snacks and Nepali meals. In Kathmandu, try Newari cuisine (mo:mo, yomari, chatamari) and buy local handicrafts, Pashmina/wool items, prayer flags or locally made herbal honey as souvenirs.