Kathmandu: Shivapuri National Park Hike with Village Lunch
ID: GYG1387697-2118357
Category:
Country: Nepal
Duration:
05:00 hours
Description
Hike through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park on a guided trek from Kathmandu. Visit the "Sleeping Vishnu" statue, spot wildlife, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch in a local village.
Begin your day at Budhanilkantha, where you'll pause at the extraordinary "Sleeping Vishnu," a 5th-century stone deity reclining in a sacred pool. From here, enter Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and leave the city behind.
As you climb through cool oak and rhododendron forest, your guide points out the life all around you. This protected park shelters leopards, barking deer, wild boar, and langur monkeys, and it's one of Nepal's finest birdwatching spots, with over 300 species flitting through the canopy.
Cross clear mountain streams, breathe air that's noticeably cleaner than the valley floor, and stop at Nagi Gompa, a peaceful hillside monastery where nuns chant and prayer flags ripple over sweeping views back across Kathmandu.
After the forest comes the reward. Descend to a local village where a family welcomes you into their home and serves a lunch cooked from their own land — a traditional Nepali dal bhat and seasonal vegetables, fresh, organic, and full of flavor, eaten the local way.
Return to Kathmandu in the afternoon with tired legs, a full stomach, and a side of the valley most visitors never even glimpse.
Highlights
- Hike through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park on a guided trek
- Visit the 5th-century "Sleeping Vishnu" at Budhanilkantha
- Spot wildlife and 300+ bird species in one of Nepal's top birding areas
- Visit the peaceful hillside monastery of Nagi Gompa with panoramic views
- Enjoy an authentic home-cooked lunch of organic produce in a local village
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Fitness level: This hike involves a sustained uphill climb of roughly 800–1,200 m of ascent over approximately 10–13 km on forest trails, with some steep and uneven sections. A moderate level of fitness is required.
The route may vary slightly depending on weather, trail and park conditions.
Vegetarian, vegan and allergy-friendly meals can be provided — please tell us your dietary needs when booking.
Modest dress is appreciated when visiting the monastery (shoulders and knees covered).
The park is a protected wildlife area; please stay with your guide and take all litter with you.
This is a nature hike — wildlife sightings (especially mammals) are never guaranteed, but the forest, birds and views are yours regardless.
The tour operates in most weather; during monsoon (Jun–Aug) trails can be muddy and leeches may be present.
INCLUDED
- Professional English-speaking hiking guide
- Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry permit
- Home-cooked village lunch (traditional Nepali meal)
- Bottled water / drinking water
- All local taxes and fees
NOT INCLUDED
- Gratuities (optional)
- Personal expenses and extra snacks or drinks
- Travel insurance
- Anything not listed above
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
