An excellent introduction to hiking in Nepal, Shivapuri Nagarjun Hill Day Tour is the perfect destination for testing your stamina and exploring Kathmandu Valley. Located to the northwest of Kathmandu Valley, Nagarjun Hill is named after the Buddhist Nagarjuna who meditated within a cave on the hill. It's said that Manjushree drained a lake filled with serpents to create the Kathmandu Valley. Whether you subscribe to that bit of folklore or not, you'll enjoy hiking this storied hill set amidst the snow-capped Himalayas. Shivapuri Nagarjun Hill hiking is also known as the Jamacho Hill Day Hike.
Fulbari Gate to the Shivapuri Nagarjun Hill Day Hike
This five-hour excursion begins with a 30-minute drive from the center of Kathmandu to Fulbari Gate, the entry point for Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. A military post protects the area and trekkers must buy a ticket to enter. From there you'll spend three hours ascending to the top, climbing lots of stairs, and observing the lush forest along the trail. Expect to see beautiful birds and exotic wildlife along the way until you reach the crest at 2110 meters.
Once atop the hill, visit the lovely Buddhist monastery, Jamacho bedecked with fluttering prayer flags. Inside the monastery, you won't want to miss the statue of Guru Rinpoche (Padhma Sambhawa), one of the most popular lamas in Buddhism. Before descending explore one of the caves dotting the hill or take in sweeping valley views and Himalayan vistas such as Langtang and Ganesh Himal. You'll return by way of the same path, so be sure to watch for flora and fauna you may have missed on the ascent.
The Shivapuri Nagarjun Hill Day Hike is popular with both tourists and locals. It's a beautiful opportunity to leave busy Kathmandu for a quiet respite in unspoiled nature.
In addition, you may also prefer the impressive Chandragiri Day Hike,Champa Devi Hill Day Hike, Nagarkot Day Hike, and many more memorable destinations.
Shivapuri-Nagarjun Hill Hiking Permit Cost
- Trekkers must obtain a Nagarjun National Park trekking permit at the Fullbari gate checkpoint, where they should carry their identity card or passport with them.
- Nepalese nationals cost 100 rupees.
- SAARC countries cost 600 rupees per person.
- Foreigners cost 1,000 rupees.
- Below 10 years old, kids do not require a permit.
