Trekking · Kathmandu
Kakani to Shivapuri Ridge Hike
A high forest traverse linking Kakani to the Shivapuri ridge, with Himalayan views on clear days.
The Kakani to Shivapuri ridge hike traverses the high western forest of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, linking the Himalaya viewpoint at Kakani to the Shivapuri Peak area along the top of the valley's northern wall. It is a long, quiet, full-day traverse for fit walkers — far less busy than the popular eastern trails, and rewarding for its sustained ridge-top forest and mountain views.
The route
The hike begins at Kakani, a hill station on the north-western rim about 25 km from the city and a noted Himalaya viewpoint in its own right. From there the trail enters the national park and runs eastward along the high ridge through oak, rhododendron and pine, passing close to the open meadow of Suryachaur. Most walkers continue toward the Shivapuri summit and then descend on the eastern side toward Budhanilkantha or Sundarijal, making it a point-to-point traverse of roughly 6 to 8 hours. Strong walkers can even link it onward to the ridge crossing from Mulkharka to Chisapani for a multi-day route.
Why do it
This is the option for hikers who want length, height and solitude. You start with mountain views from Kakani, then spend hours on the forested spine of the valley rim with the Ganesh Himal and Langtang ranges to the north on a clear day. Because it is long and less travelled, treat it as a proper trek — see our Nepal trekking guide for preparation.
Logistics and permits
Reach Kakani by taxi or local transport from Kathmandu. You pay the national park entry fee at the gate, so carry cash in Nepali rupees. Since the ridge has unmarked forks, a local guide or an offline map is strongly recommended, and you should arrange your end-point transport in advance, especially if you finish above Budhanilkantha.
When to go and what to bring
Hike between October and April for clear ridge views and dry trails. Carry at least 2 litres of water, food, a warm layer and a headtorch in case the long day runs late. For shorter alternatives and the full picture of the north rim, see the best day hikes near Kathmandu, pair your day with the Sleeping Vishnu temple at Budhanilkantha, or plan the rest of your trip from the Kathmandu hub.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Kakani to Shivapuri ridge hike start?+
It starts at Kakani, a hill viewpoint on the north-western rim of the Kathmandu Valley about 25 km from the city. From there the trail enters Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and follows the high ridge eastward toward Shivapuri Peak.
How long is the Kakani to Shivapuri traverse?+
It is a long full-day hike, typically 6 to 8 hours along the high forest ridge depending on your start and finish points. Many walkers descend toward Budhanilkantha or Sundarijal at the eastern end, so it is best done point to point.
Why hike from Kakani?+
Kakani is itself a Himalaya viewpoint, so you start with mountain views, then walk through quiet high forest with far fewer people than the popular eastern Shivapuri trails. It is a rewarding traverse for fit, experienced walkers.
Do I need a permit and a guide?+
You pay the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry fee at the gate. The ridge route is long and less travelled, so a local guide or a downloaded offline map is strongly recommended to avoid taking a wrong fork in the forest.
