Shivapuri Peak
The highest point on the Kathmandu Valley rim at 2,732m — spectacular views of Langtang, Jugal Himal, and even Everest on clear days.
Distance
12 km
Duration
6 hours
Elevation Gain
1,150m
Max Elevation
2,732m
Min Elevation
1,580m
Highest Point
Shivapuri Peak
Difficulty
Challenging
Best Season
October-December, March-May
Route Type
Point to Point
Permit Required
Yes
Permit Cost
USD 8
Permit Information
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry fee required (NPR 1,000 for foreigners)
Shivapuri Peak is the highest point surrounding the Kathmandu Valley and offers the most expansive Himalayan panorama of any valley rim hike. The trail climbs steadily through oak, rhododendron, and mixed broadleaf forest within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, passing the beautiful Nagi Gompa Buddhist nunnery en route.
Over 300 bird species have been recorded in the park, making this an excellent birding hike. The summit provides spectacular views of Langtang, Jugal Himal, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, and even Everest on very clear days.
The most popular approach starts from the Budhanilkantha gate on the north side of the valley. The hike can be combined with a visit to the famous Budhanilkantha temple (reclining Vishnu statue) before or after.