Trip Overview
The Shivapuri Trek, also known as the Shivapuri Nagarkot Trek or the Shivapuri Nagarkot Hike, is one of the best short treks near the Kathmandu Valley, which ensures you a tranquil escape into nature near the busy capital city of Nepal. The Shivapuri Trekking Itinerary of 7 days begins from Budhanilkantha and concludes in Nagarkot, popular for its distant yet stunning sunrise and sunset views over the snow-capped mountain ranges, including Mt. Everest on clear days.
The major highlights of this Shivapuri Trekking include soaking in the serenity of the religiously and culturally significant Budhanilkantha Temple with the floating idol of Lord Vishnu on the lake, making it to the top of Shivapuri Peak (2,732 m), also the second tallest hill near Kathmandu, and later on Nagarkot. It is a perfect destination for beginners for better conditioning for Nepal’s trekking and hiking conditions, planning to join later on.
Likewise is suitable for families with aged members and children looking for something memorable and doable as an adventure at the same time, and photographers keen to capture the breathtaking views with mountain ranges such as Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, Lakpa Dorje, Melung Tse, Gauri Shankar, Everest, and Lhotse in the background. Taking you through several Tamang villages, the cultural immersion is also there.
A short yet meaningful escape from modern hustle and bustle awaits in the Shivpuri and Nagarkot hill stations. Bookings are now open for the years 2026 and 2027. For solo, group, private, or family tours, book with one of the highly experienced travel, trek, and tour organizers in Nepal, such as Adventure Himalayan Travels & Treks, for a hassle-free experience. Our Shivapuri Trek cost is not only transparent but also reasonable. Save your spot now!
What to expect during the Shivapuri Trekking of 7 days?
The Shivapuri Trek inside the Shivapuri National Park, in comparison to popular high-altitude treks and climbs such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Langtang Valley Trek, and the Mera Peak Climbing, is an easygoing hiking journey near Kathmandu. Including walking through deep forests, stone trails, and making it to the quiet ridges, it is a fantastic place to visit for beginners who want a taste of the Himalayas.
Though the steep ascents and descents do demand a good level of physical fitness, you may not need hardcore physical and mental preparation. Those with basic fitness can make it successfully through the Shivapuri and Nagarkot hill stations. Passing through the villages, farmland terraces, and spiritual sites such as the Budhnilkantha Temple and Nagi Gompa, stealing glimpses of the Himalayan ranges here is what makes it unforgettable overall:
Where is Shivapuri Peak? How long does it take to reach the peak from Kathmandu?
The second-highest hill around Kathmandu, after Pulchowki or Phulchoki, at an elevation of 2,791 m above sea level, Shivapuri Peak is located at the northern edge at about 2,732 m above sea level. Characterized by deep forests, monasteries, and panoramic Himalayan views from the top, especially on a clear weather day, it is a popular hiking destination that can be completed in anywhere from 5 to 7 hours one way from Kathmandu to make it to the summit.
The exact Shivpuri Trekking Itinerary varies greatly based on the specific customization made, your area of interests, and preferences, with options like a side hike to Nagi Gompa, spending a night here, and then only hiking the summit in the morning. But if you are a seasoned trekker and enjoy pushing your limits, from the trek starting point, Budhanilkatha, which is about a 30-40 minute drive from the city centre, the Shivpuri Trek can be completed in just a day as well.
What is the Nagarkot Hill Station popular for? Can you see Mount Everest from here?
The main highlight, the Nagarkot viewpoint, measuring in at about 2,164m to 2,195m above sea level, is one of the famous hill stations near Kathmandu and is known for its magical sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas. On a clear weather day, you can see several panoramas of snow-capped peaks such as Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and also Annapurna, a great place to visit to catch the clear views of majestic mountain ranges.
Yes, while it may appear small and distant, from the Nagarkot viewpoint, you can see Mount Everest on the far eastern horizon, including on this 7-day hiking trip to Shivapuri. Above the lush forests and traditional Nepalese villages, without missing the mountain views, you have an opportunity for short yet memorable hikes and a peaceful retreat that is also a photography haven, with picture-perfect scenery, a Kathmandu near a photography haven.
The Shivapuri Hike Itinerary and Cost for 2026 and 2027
The 7 days for the Shivapuri Trek itinerary begin with your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal. On the second day, you visit some of the major cultural and historical sites of the capital city of the country, also famous as the city of temples, such as Pashupatinath Temple, Swyambhunath, and Boudhnath, also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. That means on the third day, is when the official hiking journey begins.
Take a short drive to Budhanilkantha, grab a warm breakfast, and in a while, you'll begin hiking. Please note that it is a steep uphill climb to the Shivapuri peak; people with weak knees may find it extra strenuous. Regardless, on the 4th day, you head to Chisapani, and the day after, you will finally make it to the Nargarkot hill station. On- and off-mountain views from this hill station are constant on a clear day.
Like this, the 6th day is when the 7-day Shivapuri hike concludes, which at first is a descent to the traditional Newari town of Bhaktapur, which further is home to one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, Changunarayan Temple, worth a visit if you want to. Otherwise, while you may choose to directly return to Kathmandu and rest on the 7th day, enjoy our free airport drop to the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
Bookings are now open for the years 2026 and 2027. Book early or with a group of more than 10 members and get special discounts on this Shivapuri trekking cost, including for the years 2026 and 2027. Located at the heart of the Kathmandu Valley, Thamel, we have more than 20 years of experience and are your trustworthy travel partner in Nepal, offering a wide range of adventure activities in Nepal. Contact us now for a memorable Himalayan holiday.

