Shivapuri: Day Hike Near Kathmandu.
Shivapuri is an amazing hiking route situated at an elevation of 2563m north of Kathmandu. It is the second highest hill around Kathmandu valley. The Shivapuri National Parkis located in the northern and north western part of Kathmandu. It is the second highest hill near the Kathmandu valley at height of 2563m and the bird watchers’ paradise. Bagdwar is the source of holy river Bagmati located near Shivapuri. Shivapuri is a world’s closest National park from the Capital city.
Early in the morning, we drove from Kathmandu to Muhan Pokhari for half an hour. After passing through the official procedures at the Shivapuri Park entrance gate, we begun hike through Shivapuri watershed and wildlife area. The good thing about hiking in Shivapuri area is that there are numerous options – whether to hike for just few hours or for a whole day. It is perfect for people visiting Nepal who cannot go for longer treks. Shivapuri Conservation Area is then within 10 minutes of walk. It is a protected forest with over 500 species. Our hike truly started from the south side of the Shivapuri area. A short walk took us to the army check post stationed for the protection of conservation area. Nagi Gompa at 2340m is another charm – this is well-known among foreigners and locals who want to practice Buddhism and meditation.
The trek above is little steep through dense forest. The views of Kathmandu Valley start getting splendid. It takes us about two hours to reach the top while we enjoy relaxing lunch with good view of the landscapes.
The trail down leads us to another interesting area of Sundarijal. Then we drove back to Kathmandu.
Shivapuri National Park has many types of flora like mushroom, floral, vascular and endemic plants as well many wild animal and birds like Himalaya Black bear, Jungle cat, Golden jackal and various varities of birds. From here one can enjoy the beauty of snowy Himalayas such as Ganesh Himal, Langtang-Lirung and Dorji. Then we had to take a shortcut downhill to Budhanilkantha and drove back to Kathmandu
Shivapuri Trek is an outstanding choice for those who are looking for a short hike within limited time. Within Shivapuri Trek hikers can enter into popular Shivapuri Wildlife Reserve, Sundarijal-Shivapuri National Park. Shivapuri situated at an altitude of 2563m north of Kathmandu is second highest hill around Kathmandu valley.
Over all, the Shivapuri Trek is not just well valued for its biodiversity and views of Himalayan ranges but the trail paves the way for experiencing cultural diversity of rural village life of Suburb of Kathmandu.
