Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park - Mountain love
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Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

4.4
·6k reviews·, Nepal

A lush 159-sq-km national park near Kathmandu, offering serene hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and spiritual sites.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October-November

Clear skies, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
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Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park - Mountain love

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Best Time

October-November

Clear skies, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A lush 159-sq-km national park near Kathmandu, offering serene hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and spiritual sites.

4.4
(6k reviews)

"A perfect nature escape close to Kathmandu, great for beginners too!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Go with a Buddy

Hiking with a friend is recommended for safety and enjoyment, especially on less-traveled paths.

Download Offline Maps

Trails can be confusing; offline maps or a guide are helpful for navigation.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dhap Dam

Dhap Dam

Near Chisapani

A serene reservoir offering stunning reflections and a peaceful escape. Perfect for a day trip.

Bishnudwar Waterfall

Bishnudwar Waterfall

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

A beautiful cascading waterfall amidst lush greenery, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.

Baghdwar

Baghdwar

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

The sacred source of the Bagmati River, a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty.

Jinki Ridge

Jinki Ridge

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

A challenging yet rewarding hike with breathtaking canyon views and a true sense of adventure.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for Hiking

Plan your trek during the dry seasons (October-November and March-April) for clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Avoid the monsoon months (June-September) when trails can be slippery and visibility is poor. Early mornings offer cooler air and fewer crowds.

Navigating the Trails

While some trails are well-marked, it's wise to download offline maps or hire a local guide, especially for less-traveled routes like Jinki Ridge. Many visitors recommend going with a friend for safety and enjoyment. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
October-November
Why
Clear skies, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
March-April
Why
Blooming flora, mild temperatures
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Mornings
Why
Cooler air, fewer people
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Dalpura Canyon and Jinki Ridge - one of my all-time favourite hikes foh sho. i got lost the first two times so wanted to make sure none of y’all get lost either 🗺️ - grab a mate, go on a trek and lemme know how u go!✌️ - also, by river… i meant creek 🤡 - follow for more walkthroughs 😘 - #cxnqr #conquer #hike #hikemore #hikelife #adventure #nswadventures #sydney #canyon #heal #wellness #Outdoors #...
@vincxe
49.9K likes • 360.8K views

Go with a Buddy

Hiking with a friend is recommended for safety and enjoyment, especially on less-traveled paths. TikTokReddit

Download Offline Maps

Trails can be confusing; offline maps or a guide are helpful for navigation. TikTok

MUST VISIT PLACE🌟 So refreshing and peaceful 🍀 . 🏡- Muhanpokhari Cafe 📍- Budhanilkantha, (Shivapuri National park ko gate napugdai left side ma) 🍴- Chicken khaja set & Chicken Jhol momo 💰- Rs380, Rs240 SC/VAT-❌ Parking- Available✅ . DM FOR MORE INFORMATION ℹ️ . #lilfoodie #fyp #tiktok #nepal Do follow me on instagram for moree☺️😉
@lil.foodie__
48K likes • 1.3M views
📍Dhap dam (Near Chisapani) , Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Kasari pugne? 1) Shortcut way! (Hardest way) (1:30hrs -1:45 hrs) - Sundarija ko shivapuri ticket counter pugne Melamchi water treatment bhanda mathi cha yo checkpoint, sundarijal pugnu pardaina) Yeta per person rs 100 katnu parcha. Rs150 for vehicle. Tespachi mathi gairakhda two way aucha. Left dhalan bato gaye chai mulkharka hudai old ...
@aakritshrestha
42.5K likes • 601.5K views

Pack Essentials

Carry water, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. A respectful attitude is key. :athleticshoe: :waterwave:

Enjoy the Journey

Don't rush your trek; savor the nature, sounds, and views along the way. TikTok

Dear trekkers and travellers, don’t rush to complete the trek go slowly and have fun to the fullest. You can add some mistakes in the comments that you know so far from your experience. And thank you manish ji for such wonderful words. Happy Dashain to all!! @mytraveldiary #travelcontent #trekkinginnepal #mistakes #fun #nepali #foryou
@traveldiy
24.8K likes • 525.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Go with a Buddy

Hiking with a friend is recommended for safety and enjoyment, especially on less-traveled paths. TikTokReddit

Download Offline Maps

Trails can be confusing; offline maps or a guide are helpful for navigation. TikTok

Pack Essentials

Carry water, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. A respectful attitude is key. :athleticshoe: :waterwave:

Enjoy the Journey

Don't rush your trek; savor the nature, sounds, and views along the way. TikTok

Visit Muhanpokhari Cafe

Stop by this cafe near the park entrance for refreshing food and drinks. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park as a refreshing and peaceful escape from Kathmandu's hustle. The lush forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails, including waterfalls and the Bagmati River's source, are major highlights. It's praised as a perfect nature retreat for friends, families, and solo adventurers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

"Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a protected area near Kathmandu Nepal. It has lush forests diverse wildlife and scenic hiking trails. Visitors enjoy birdwatching nature walks and exploring waterfalls. The park helps conserve biodiversity and provides a peaceful escape into nature for locals and tourists alike."

samir Gurung

"Best place to go hike with friends, family and best for nature dates too.
Give it a try and have a small escape into nature 🌿🌿
Hope you'll have a great time there 😊"

Merisha Maharjan

"Shivapuri hike was refreshing and peaceful! Beautiful forest trails, birdsong, and stunning views of the valley and mountains. A perfect nature escape close to Kathmandu. Great for beginners too!"

Manish Ghimire

What People Like

Refreshing and peaceful atmosphere
Beautiful forest trails
Stunning valley views

What People Dislike

Limited facilities on trails
Can be crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the park entrance by taxi or local bus from Kathmandu. For specific trailheads like Sundarijal, take a taxi or bus. Some visitors opt for a scenic drive to Muhanpokhari Cafe before entering the park. TikTok+1

The park is primarily for hiking and trekking. Vehicles are allowed up to certain checkpoints, with fees applicable. TikTok

Taxis are usually available near the main entrance points. For more remote trail exits, it's advisable to pre-arrange a pickup or be prepared for a longer walk to a main road. :taxi:

Ride-sharing apps like Pathao are available in Kathmandu and can be used to reach the park's vicinity. However, coverage within the park itself might be limited. :iphone:

The Dhap Dam trail is accessible from the Shivapuri ticket counter. Some routes involve a shortcut from Sundarijal, but it's a more challenging path. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance fees vary. For instance, reaching the checkpoint above Sundarijal for the Dhap Dam route costs around NPR 100 per person and NPR 150 for vehicles. TikTok

The park is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check locally for specific timings, especially if planning a sunrise or sunset hike. :clock1:

Advance booking is typically not required for general entry. Tickets are usually purchased at the park's entrance gates or checkpoints. :admission_tickets:

While not explicitly stated, it's common in Nepal for there to be different fee structures for Nepali citizens and foreign nationals. Confirm at the ticket counter. :moneybag:

The fee grants access to the park's trails and natural attractions. It contributes to the conservation efforts within the national park. :seedling:

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular trails include the hike to Dhap Dam, Bishnudwar Waterfall, Baghdwar, and the more challenging Jinki Ridge. The park offers a variety of routes for different fitness levels. TikTok+1

While generally safe due to its popularity, hiking with a companion is recommended, especially on less-frequented trails. The Dhap Dam area is considered very safe. Reddit

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, monkeys, and other small mammals. Keep an eye out during your trek. :bird: :monkey:

Basic facilities might be limited on the trails. It's best to carry sufficient water and use restrooms at the entrance or designated cafes like Muhanpokhari Cafe. TikTok

Take your time, walk slowly, and immerse yourself in the sounds of nature. The park offers beautiful forest trails, birdsong, and stunning valley and mountain views on clear days. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there are no formal restaurants within the park's core hiking trails, you can find cafes near the entrance, such as Muhanpokhari Cafe, offering local snacks and meals. TikTok

Muhanpokhari Cafe offers local Nepalese dishes like Chicken Khaja Set and Chicken Jhol Momo. It's a popular spot for hikers to refuel. TikTok

Yes, bringing your own snacks and water is highly recommended, especially for longer hikes. Ensure you carry out all your trash to keep the park clean. :apple: :water_wave:

The park's natural beauty provides many scenic spots for a picnic. Choose a safe and designated area away from sensitive ecological zones. :picnic_table:

Prices at cafes like Muhanpokhari Cafe are reasonable, with items like Chicken Khaja Set costing around NPR 380 and Chicken Jhol Momo around NPR 240. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the serene Dhap Dam reflections, the cascading Bishnudwar Waterfall, panoramic valley views from higher trails, and the lush forest canopy. TikTok

On clear days, especially from higher vantage points on the Nagarjuna side, you can catch glimpses of the Himalayas peeking through the clouds. :mountain_snow:

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the tranquil atmosphere. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting. :sunrise: :sunset:

Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly allowed. :noentrysign:

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and general shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. :camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a fantastic destination for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The trails to Dhap Dam and Bishnudwar Waterfall are generally considered beginner-friendly and offer engaging natural sights for children. The relatively short hiking times and the opportunity to see local flora and fauna can keep younger ones entertained. TikTok

It's advisable to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities within the park are limited. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds. The Muhanpokhari Cafe near the entrance is a good spot for a family meal or a refreshing break. Ensure children stay close and follow marked paths for their safety. :child: :apple:

🚶 Budget Travelers

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The entrance fees are nominal, and the primary cost will be transportation to the park. TikTok Opting for local buses or sharing taxis can significantly reduce travel expenses. Reddit

Packing your own food and water is the most economical way to manage dining during your visit, as options within the park are scarce and cafes can add up. TikTok The park offers a rich experience of nature and hiking without requiring expensive tours or activities, making it a great value for money. :moneybag: :hiking_boot:

🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers

For solo travelers and those seeking spiritual solace, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park offers a peaceful and rejuvenating escape. The serene trails, particularly to Baghdwar, provide an ideal environment for meditation and introspection. Reddit The quietude of the forests and the natural sounds create a calming atmosphere. Reddit

While generally safe, solo hikers should exercise caution, inform someone of their itinerary, and stick to popular trails. The park's natural beauty and spiritual sites offer a profound connection with nature, making it a rewarding destination for self-discovery and peace. :lotus_flower: :compass:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Trails and Difficulty

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park offers a diverse range of hiking trails catering to various fitness levels. The most popular routes include the trek to Dhap Dam, known for its serene reservoir and accessible path, and the trail leading to Bishnudwar Waterfall, a refreshing natural spectacle. For those seeking a more spiritual experience, the hike to Baghdwar, the source of the Bagmati River, is highly recommended. TikTok

More adventurous trekkers can tackle the challenging Jinki Ridge, which rewards hikers with stunning canyon views and a true sense of accomplishment. TikTok While many trails are well-maintained, some can be steep or rocky. It's advisable to wear sturdy hiking boots and carry a walking stick for better stability. Downloading offline maps or hiring a local guide is a good idea, especially for less-trodden paths, to avoid getting lost. TikTok

Wildlife and Conservation

The park is a vital sanctuary for biodiversity, boasting lush forests that are home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to encounter numerous bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for monkeys that often cross the trails, adding a lively element to the hike. While larger mammals are present, sightings are rare. Reddit

The park plays a crucial role in conserving the natural environment surrounding Kathmandu. Its protected status ensures the preservation of its ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism by staying on marked trails, refraining from littering, and respecting the wildlife. The park's serene atmosphere is a testament to these conservation efforts, offering a peaceful escape into nature. :seedling: :bird:

Spiritual and Historical Significance

Beyond its natural beauty, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park holds significant spiritual and historical importance. Baghdwar, believed to be the origin of the sacred Bagmati River, is a pilgrimage site for many, offering a tranquil spot for reflection and prayer. The park's serene environment is conducive to meditation and spiritual rejuvenation. Reddit

The park also encompasses areas with historical connections, though specific details are less prominent in general visitor information. The combination of natural landscapes and spiritual sites makes it a unique destination that appeals to nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat with a touch of cultural depth. The park's history is intertwined with the natural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. :pray: :scroll:

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