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Shivapuri National Park Travel Guide

Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park is Kathmandu’s backyard wilderness — day hikes from Budhanilkantha or Sundarijal for forests, birds and ridges.

Quick facts — Shivapuri National Park

Province / regionBagmati
DistrictKathmandu
Elevation~1500–2732 m
Best seasonOct–May; start early.
Suggested days1 day
Best forTravellers matching this destination’s style — see overview
Entry / ticketsPark/heritage fees may apply — verify current rates.
Budget tip Budget depends on stay type and activities — compare live hotels on Lokrio.
Distance from Kathmandu~12 km
Typical travel timeVaries — see destination access section
From Kathmandu How to get there →

Explore Shivapuri National Park

5Attractions 5Activities 4Tours 1Hotels 3Routes

Getting there from Kathmandu

Reach Shivapuri National Park from Kathmandu by bus, jeep, flight and/or trek depending on the destination type. See travel time notes.

Distance~12 km
Travel timeVaries — see destination access section
Road conditionsCheck seasonal highway/trail status before travel
Main modesBus / jeep · Flight where available · Trek where required
FlightsCheck domestic flights if a gateway airport exists
PermitsTrek/park permits where required via licensed desks.

Kathmandu → Budhanilkantha / Sundarijal bus tickets → Cab rentals

Travel references

Last researched: 23 July 2026. Always verify live road/flight status before travel.

Plan your Shivapuri National Park trip

Budget calculator

Estimated trip budget Rs 24,800 1 traveller(s) · 3 day(s)
Stay / room / nightfrom Rs 3,500 × 1 room(s)
Food / person / dayfrom Rs 1,600
Paid activity / person from Rs 2,000
Depends on selected activity and operator.
Local travel / group / dayfrom Rs 2,500
Stay subtotalRs 10,500
Food subtotalRs 4,800
Activity subtotalRs 2,000
Local travel subtotalRs 7,500

Planning estimate for Shivapuri National Park based on published Nepal tourist rates (2025–2026 guides). Hotel is per room (2 guests), food per person/day, local transport per group/day, paid activity once per traveller. Intercity buses/flights and permits are separate. Verify live prices before booking.

Shivapuri National Park price references

Last researched: 17 July 2026. Rates are planning benchmarks, not live quotes.

Best time to visit

Oct–May; start early.

SeasonConditionsBest for
Oct–Mar Dry and comfortable
Best overall travel window.		 Wildlife, temples, city visits
Apr–May Very hot afternoons
Hydrate and avoid midday heat.		 Early safari and short visits
Jun–Sep Hot, humid, monsoon rain
Some outdoor activities pause.		 Low-crowd travel

3-day Shivapuri National Park itinerary

Day 1 Arrival & highlights
  • Ridge viewpoints
  • Budhanilkantha trails
  • Try: Dal bhat
Day 2 Activities & local culture
  • Sundarijal approaches
  • Birdwatching
  • Sightseeing
Day 3 Scenic side trip
  • Nagi Gompa area
  • Ridge viewpoints
  • Optional side trip: Kathmandu

History & culture — Shivapuri National Park

Protects valley watershed forests and pilgrimage springs.

Overview of Shivapuri National Park

Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park is Kathmandu’s backyard wilderness — day hikes from Budhanilkantha or Sundarijal for forests, birds and ridges.

Nature day trip without leaving the valley.

Best time to visit

Oct–May; start early.

Oct–May; start early.

  • Best months: Oct–May; start early.
  • Monsoon: Check road/trail conditions

How long to stay in Shivapuri National Park

Suggested trip length: 1 day

4–8 hour day hike from Budhanilkantha or Sundarijal.

Best for: Travellers matching this destination’s style — see overview

  1. Day 1: Arrive and explore Shivapuri National Park
  2. Day 2: Main attractions
  3. Day 3: Nearby or depart

Top attractions in Shivapuri National Park

  • Ridge viewpoints
  • Budhanilkantha trails
  • Sundarijal approaches
  • Birdwatching
  • Nagi Gompa area

Hotels & stays in Shivapuri National Park

Book partner-verified hotels, guest houses — Book verified hotels/lodges on Lokrio where available. in Shivapuri National Park. Compare live hotel prices on Lokrio. Filter by area, budget and room type before you pay.

Budget depends on stay type and activities — compare live hotels on Lokrio.

See hotels in Shivapuri National Park →

Permits, tickets & practical notes

Permits: Trek/park permits where required via licensed desks.

Entry fees / tickets: Park/heritage fees may apply — verify current rates.

Fees change — verify at the gate, NTB or park office before travel.

Festivals & events near Shivapuri National Park

  • Seasonal local and national festivals

What to pack

  • Layered clothing
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Sun protection
  • Cash
  • Rain shell

Safety & health tips

Follow local guidance; for mountains respect altitude and weather; for wildlife use authorized guides.

Local food — what to try in Shivapuri National Park

  • Dal bhat
  • Momo
  • Local specialties
  • Tea / chiya

Local tips for visitors

  • Start early for views
  • Carry cash
  • Book transport early on holidays
  • Respect local culture

Hotels in Shivapuri National Park

Available bus routes

Top attractions

Nearby destinations

Local foods — must try in Shivapuri National Park

  • Dal bhat
  • Momo
  • Local specialties
  • Tea / chiya

Local tips

  • Start early for views
  • Carry cash
  • Book transport early on holidays
  • Respect local culture

Reach Shivapuri National Park from Kathmandu by bus, jeep, flight and/or trek depending on the destination type. See travel time notes.

Frequently asked questions — Shivapuri National Park

Guide?

Optional on popular trails.

How long?

4–8 hour day hikes.

Is Shivapuri National Park worth visiting?

Yes — it is among Nepal’s Top-30 destinations for Nature day trip without leaving the valley..

What is Shivapuri National Park famous for?

Protects valley watershed forests and pilgrimage springs.

When is the best time to visit Shivapuri National Park?

Oct–May; start early.

How do I reach Shivapuri National Park from Kathmandu?

Reach Shivapuri National Park from Kathmandu by bus, jeep, flight and/or trek depending on the destination type. See travel time notes. Typical time: Varies — see destination access section.

How much do hotels cost in Shivapuri National Park?

Hotel prices in Shivapuri National Park vary by season and area. Compare live rates on Lokrio before booking.

Can I book Shivapuri National Park hotels and buses on the same site?

Yes. Lokrio lets you book bus tickets, hotels, holiday packages and cabs from one Nepal travel desk.

Is Shivapuri National Park good for a weekend trip?

Many travellers visit Shivapuri National Park for 1–3 nights. Book return transport early on weekends and holidays.

Do I need a guide in Shivapuri National Park?

City sightseeing is often self-guided. For national parks, treks or remote areas, use licensed local guides and permits where required.

What should I pack for Shivapuri National Park?

Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a light jacket for evenings, and copies of your e-tickets. Hill and mountain areas need warmer layers.

Are there ATMs and payments in Shivapuri National Park?

Major tourist towns have ATMs and card acceptance, but carry some cash. On Lokrio you can pay online before you travel.

How do I book a cab in Shivapuri National Park?

Use Lokrio cab rentals for airport transfers and intercity hire, or ask your hotel for local taxis.

What food is popular near Shivapuri National Park?

Expect Nepali dal-bhat, momo, Newari or Tharu dishes depending on the region, plus tourist cafes in main hubs.

Is Shivapuri National Park safe for tourists?

Tourist areas are generally welcoming. Use normal travel caution, licensed operators, and keep valuables secure.

What is the road condition from Kathmandu to Shivapuri National Park?

Check seasonal highway/trail status before travel

How long does Kathmandu to Shivapuri National Park take?

Varies — see destination access section Distance is about 12 km.

Do I need permits for Shivapuri National Park?

Trek/park permits where required via licensed desks.

What is the best time to visit Shivapuri National Park?

Oct–May; start early.

How much budget do I need for Shivapuri National Park?

A mid-range planning estimate is around Rs 8,267 per person per day for stay, food, local travel and one paid activity tier — excluding intercity transport, flights and permits.

How many days are enough for Shivapuri National Park?

Two to three days suit the main highlights in Shivapuri National Park; add extra days for nearby trips, trekking or weather delays.