Trekking · Kathmandu
Budhanilkantha to Shivapuri Walk
A demanding forest climb from Budhanilkantha to the 2,732 m Shivapuri peak, the valley's second-highest summit and a sacred site.
The Budhanilkantha to Shivapuri walk is the toughest and most rewarding hike on the northern wall of the Kathmandu Valley — a sustained forest climb from the Sleeping Vishnu temple of Budhanilkantha up to Shivapuri peak (2,732 m), the valley's second-highest summit, crowned by a small shrine. It is a full day's effort through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, rewarded with Himalayan views on clear mornings.
The short answer
Start at Budhanilkantha, about 30 to 45 minutes north of Kathmandu, pay the national park entry fee at the gate, and climb the forest trail north. The route gains around 1,400 metres over roughly 7 to 9 km, taking about 4 to 5 hours up to the Shivapuri summit shrine. Descend the same way (or toward Sundarijal) in about 3 hours. This is a strenuous full-day hike — start early and carry plenty of water.
On the trail
Above the Sleeping Vishnu temple, the path enters the national park and climbs steadily through dense mixed forest of oak, rhododendron and pine. You pass Nagi Gompa on the lower slopes and may continue past Baghdwar, the sacred source of the Bagmati river, marked by a tiger-mouth spring. The final pull to the summit is steep, ending at a small shrine and a clearing with views over the valley and, in clear weather, the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges to the north.
The forest is rich in birds and, occasionally, glimpses of deer and other wildlife protected within the park.
Combine with the lower walks
If the full summit is too much, you can turn around at Nagi Gompa, which is also the goal of the shorter Sundarijal to Nagi Gompa walk. For a comparable big climb on the valley's southern rim, tackle the Pharping to Champadevi pilgrimage hike.
Good to know
- Distance & time: ~7–9 km one way; full day, ~1,400 m of climbing.
- Difficulty: Strenuous, sustained ascent on forest trails.
- Best time: October–April for clear views; avoid the leechy monsoon.
- Permit: National park entry fee required.
- Bring: Plenty of water, snacks, layers, cash, and an early start.
How it fits your trip
This is the most serious of the valley's pilgrimage walks and a genuine taste of Himalayan forest. Find it among the other routes in the sacred hikes of the Kathmandu Valley collection, see more options in the best day hikes near Kathmandu guide, and plan around the best time to visit Nepal for the clearest summit views.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Shivapuri peak?+
Shivapuri peak rises to 2,732 metres, making it the second-highest point on the Kathmandu Valley rim after Phulchowki. The summit holds a small shrine and, on clear days, gives wide views over the valley and north toward the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges.
How long is the Budhanilkantha to Shivapuri hike?+
It is a demanding day hike of roughly 7 to 9 kilometres one way, climbing around 1,400 metres from Budhanilkantha to the summit. Expect about 4 to 5 hours up and 3 hours down, so allow a full day and start early to be back before dark.
Do you need a permit for the Shivapuri hike?+
Yes. The trail enters Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park just above Budhanilkantha, so a national park entry fee applies. Pay at the checkpoint, carry identification and cash, and keep your ticket for checks along the way.
How do I get to the Budhanilkantha trailhead?+
Budhanilkantha is about a 30 to 45 minute taxi ride north of central Kathmandu, at the foot of Shivapuri. The trail starts near the national park entry gate above the Sleeping Vishnu temple and climbs north into the forest toward the summit.
