Shivpuri National Park, now officially known as Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, is a tranquil and biodiverse protected area located just north of Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. Spanning over 159 square kilometers, it serves as a vital green buffer for the city and offers a peaceful escape into nature, rich in flora, fauna, hiking trails, and spiritual heritage.

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Quick Facts

• Location: Kathmandu, Nuwakot & Sindhupalchowk districts, Nepal

• Established: 2002

• Area: 159 km²

• Elevation Range: 1,000 – 2,732 meters

• Best Time to Visit: October to April

• Main Access Points: Budhanilkantha, Balaju, Kakani, and Nagarjun

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Key Highlights

1. Biodiversity and Wildlife

Despite its proximity to Kathmandu, the park supports a surprising range of wildlife:

• Mammals: Himalayan black bear, leopard, barking deer, wild boar, rhesus macaque, and Indian porcupine

• Birds: Over 300 species, including spiny babbler (Nepal’s endemic bird), kalij pheasant, and Eurasian eagle-owl

• Butterflies and reptiles also thrive in the park’s varied micro-climates

2. Rich Flora

The park is a botanical haven with:

• Dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests

• Medicinal herbs like Yarsagumba and Panchaule

• Seasonal wildflowers, mosses, and orchids

It plays a critical role in protecting the Bagmati River watershed, supplying water to Kathmandu Valley.

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Activities and Attractions

Hiking and Nature Walks

Shivapuri offers some of the best day hikes near Kathmandu, such as:

• Shivapuri Peak (2,732 m) – Panoramic views of the Himalayas

• Nagi Gompa – A peaceful Buddhist monastery popular with trekkers

• Sundarijal Trail – Scenic waterfalls and connection to longer treks like the Helambu Circuit

Birdwatching and Photography

The park’s birdlife and tranquil forest settings make it a favorite for birders and nature photographers.

Spiritual Sites

• Nagi Gompa (a nunnery)

• Bagh Dwar – A spiritual spring believed to be the origin of the Bagmati River

• Shiva shrines hidden throughout the park

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Accessibility

• Only 11 km from central Kathmandu, making it a convenient day trip

• Main entrance at Budhanilkantha, accessible by taxi, bus, or private vehicle

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Park Entry and Fees

• Entry permits available at the park gates

• Separate fees for foreigners, SAARC nationals, and Nepali citizens

• Guides and maps available for rent or purchase at entrances

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Conservation Importance

The park is vital for:

• Water catchment and watershed protection

• Urban biodiversity preservation

• Environmental education and eco-tourism

• It connects to Langtang National Park, creating a forest corridor for migratory species

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Trivia and Interesting Facts

• The park was originally Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve before gaining national park status.

• The Nagarjun forest section, added later, was a former royal hunting ground.

• You can see snow-covered peaks like Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal from the summit on a clear day.

• The park supports sustainable livelihoods through community forestry and local homestay tourism in nearby villages.