Trekking · Kathmandu
Bagdwar Hike (Source of the Bagmati)
A forest pilgrimage to Bagdwar, the sacred tiger-mouth spring source of the Bagmati River.
Bagdwar is the sacred source of the Bagmati River, hidden high in the Shivapuri forest above Kathmandu. The name means "tiger gate": the spring water emerges from a carved stone tiger's mouth, making this both a Hindu pilgrimage site and one of the most atmospheric forest day hikes in Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.
Why it matters
The Bagmati is the holiest river of the Kathmandu Valley — it flows past the great cremation ghats of Pashupatinath downstream, and Hindus revere its origin here at Bagdwar. Pilgrims climb to the spring especially around festivals to bathe and make offerings. Even for non-pilgrims, the sense of reaching a sacred wellspring deep in old forest gives the walk a quiet power that ordinary viewpoint hikes lack.
The hike
The route starts at the Pani Muhan gate above the Sleeping Vishnu temple at Budhanilkantha and climbs steadily through the same cloud forest as the Shivapuri Peak hike, passing the turnoff for the Nagi Gompa nunnery. Bagdwar sits on the high northern flank of the massif, so allow 4 to 5 hours each way — this is a strenuous full-day outing. Many fit hikers combine Bagdwar with the summit, looping up to the peak and down past the spring.
Getting there and permits
Take a taxi from central Kathmandu to the Pani Muhan gate via Budhanilkantha, around 45 minutes. You pay the national park entry fee at the gate, so bring cash in Nepali rupees, with separate rates for foreigners, SAARC nationals and Nepalis. Because the round trip is long and the upper forest sees few people, start at first light, tell someone your plan, and carry plenty of water, snacks and a warm layer for the cooler high slopes.
When to go
Hike Bagdwar between October and April for dry trails and clear air. During the June to September monsoon the forest is slippery and leech-prone, and afternoon storms are common. This is a genuine forest trek rather than a casual stroll, so build up to it — our Nepal trekking guide and roundup of the best day hikes near Kathmandu help you plan, and the Kathmandu hub covers the wider valley.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Bagdwar?+
Bagdwar is the sacred source of the Bagmati River, high on the slopes of Shivapuri inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The name means 'tiger gate' — the spring water issues from a carved stone tiger's mouth, and the spot is an important Hindu pilgrimage site.
How long is the hike to Bagdwar?+
From the Pani Muhan gate above Budhanilkantha it is a strenuous forest walk of about 4 to 5 hours each way, with significant climbing. Most people make it a long full-day hike or combine it with the Shivapuri Peak route.
Why is Bagdwar sacred?+
The Bagmati is the holiest river in the Kathmandu Valley, flowing past Pashupatinath, so Hindus revere its origin at Bagdwar. Pilgrims visit especially during festivals, and the carved tiger-mouth spring gives the place its name and significance.
Do I need a permit for the Bagdwar hike?+
Yes. Bagdwar is inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, so you pay the entry fee at the Pani Muhan gate above Budhanilkantha. Carry cash in Nepali rupees and start early for this long hike.
