Shivapuri National Park

Background

Shivapuri National Park was Nepal’s ninth national park gazetted in 2002. Set just 12 km away from the capital, Kathmandu, it has an area of 144 sq km on the northern fringe of the Kathmandu Valley.

Flora and Fauna

Depending on the altitude and it’s aspects, Shivapuri National Park consists of a variety of vegetation such as the natural forests of Pine, Oak and Rhododendron as its location is in a transition zone between subtropical and temperate climates.

Many species of wildlife has been recorded in the park. These include the Rhesus Monkey, Himalayan Black Bear, Leopard and the Jungle Cat.

Other than the vegetation and wildlife, Shivapuri National Park also has some 177 species of birds of which at least 9 are endangered species. The park is also home to 102 species of butterflies with a number of rare and endangered species.

Water Resources

Shivapuri being one of the main drinking water supply sources for the Kathmandu Valley, its rivers are considered very important. Some 30 million liters of water is tapped everyday to supply drinking water. Rivers such as the Bagmati and the Bishnumati as well as several other smaller streams are constantly being tapped.

Places of Interest

Being located just 12 km from Kathmandu, Shivapuri National Park is easily accessible. The park’s main attraction to visitors is for trekking as the popular trekking routes to Nagarkot, Gosainkunda, Helambu and Langtang National Park also passes through the park. There are also several Hindau and Buddhist religious sites inside the park.

Duting mid-April, on the Nepalese New Year’s day, pilgrims from Kathmandu and the surrounding areas all visit the Baghdwar and Bishnudwar inside the park. These two places are considered holy and where the sacred rivers, Bagmati and Bishumati, originate.

Visitors to Shivapuri National Park are more than often awed by the breathtaking views of the Himalayas from the northern aspects of the park. While the northern parts of the park shows off the majestic Himalayas, the southern slopes of the park offers fantastic panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

Visit National Parks to read about other parks in Nepal.

Some popular trekking destinations within the park include:

• Panimuhan, Park HQ – Shivapuri peak
• Panimuhan, Park HQ – Sikre
• Nagi Gumba – Bagdwar – Chisapani
• Kakani – Shivapuri
• Jhule – Chisapani
• Sundarijal – Chisapani

Shivapuri Hiking: One of the most popular itinerary.

Park Regulations

• An entrance fee has to be paid at the Park entrance gate by visitors. For foreigners, the fee is NPR 250.00 and 10.00 for Nepalese.
• Respect the religious and cultural sites. The removal of cultural or religious artifacts is strictly prohibited.
• No one should walk within the park between sunset and sunrise.
• Flora and fauna are fully protected and must not be disturbed.
• Carry out non-biodegradable items such as plastic bags and bottles.
• Visitors should be self sufficient in fuel supply (Kerosene). The use of firewood is strictly prohibited.
• Rubbish must be packed out, buried or disposed of in designated areas.
• Do not purchase animal or plant products – it is illegal.