Shivapuri Nagi Gumba Day Hike

Duration

Full Day

Group Size

Small group

Languages

English

Location

Budhanilkantha

Overview

Shivapuri Nagi Gumba Day Hike represents a good retreat from the capital of Kathmandu, for it offers calm and quietness on foot in the dense Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The trek is suitable for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure loving people who need a soft and refreshing trek around the capital city.

The trek starts from Budhanilkantha, the abode of the famous reclining Vishnu statue, and ascends gradually through dense forests filled with oak, rhododendron, and pine trees. As one walks deeper into the national park, the chirping of birds and the cool mountain breeze create an experience in themselves. Nagi Gumba is a serene Buddhist monastery perched atop an altitude of 1,650 meters and is the main highlight of the trek. Reconstructed by Tibetan nuns, this monastery, atop panoramic views over Kathmandu Valley, forms a very apt place to be away from din and bustle.

After spending some time at Nagi Gumba, the trek continues on trails that wind their way through a scenic route, offering breathtaking views of the Langtang Himalayan range. This adds a touch of adventure to the journey. Whether looking for a small nature retreat, spiritual experience, or even a fitness challenge, the Shivapuri Nagi Gumba Day Hike is rewarding and enriching in itself.

Precautions and Safety Measures

Comfortable hiking shoes will make for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Bring in a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection.
Carry a light backpack with essential items: water, snacks, and a rain jacket.
Be respectful at Nagi Gumba; it is an active monastery.
Ensure that your travel insurance covers the hiking activity.

Highlights:

A refreshing day hike through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Visit to Budhanilkantha Temple, famous for its reclining Vishnu statue
Panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley from the Nagi Gumba viewpoint
Experience Nagi Gumba, a peaceful Buddhist monastery where Tibetan nuns reside
Chance to meditate and observe Buddhist rituals in a tranquil setting
Walk through lush forests with diverse flora and fauna
Breathtaking views of the Langtang Himalayan range on clear days
Easy-to-moderate hike, suitable for beginners and families
Get away from the city noise into nature and spirituality.

Itinerary

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu and drive for 30 minutes to Budhanilkantha, a small town and the starting point of this hike. Pre-hike, you will be taken to the Budhanilkantha Temple, home to the reclining Vishnu statue, one of Nepal’s most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites.

Commence the hike on an uphill trail, taking you to the gate of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, where your guide will manage entry permits, and then begin trekking through the pristine forests of Rhododendron, oak, and pine. The high climb offers cool fresh air with chirping of birds and crunching leaves to soothe one’s ears and soul.

After a hike of approximately 1.5 hours, you will arrive at Nagi Gumba, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that offers great views of Kathmandu Valley. This quiet monastery houses Tibetan Buddhist nuns and is used as a meditation retreat. You can explore the monastery, interact with the nuns, and take a short meditation break in its peaceful surroundings.

After the tour of Nagi Gumba, take time resting, snacking, and taking in the surrounding panoramic views over Kathmandu Valley and further away Himalaya peaks. Monastery serenity makes this monastery a very great place for shooting and meditating.

On the way back, you will take the same route but this time downhill through the dense forests of the national park. Your guide will stop and explain to you some interesting facts about the wildlife, flora, and other history related to the area.

At Budhanilkantha, board your vehicle and drive back to Kathmandu for the ending of your spiritual and nature-filled adventure fruitfully.

You will be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of your Shivapuri Nagi Gumba Day Hike.

Cost

Included:

Private transportation from Kathmandu and back
Professional hiking guide
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry permit
Visit to Budhanilkantha Temple
Light snacks and drinking water
First aid kit

Excluded:

Personal insurance
Lunch and beverages
Tips for the guide (optional)

FAQ

It’s a moderate hike with 4 to 5 hours of walking upward and gentle ascent and descent, respectively. The hike is very suitable for beginners and families, too, for those comfortable walking uphill.

One needs an entry permit to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which will be provided under the package.

No, accommodations are not included as it is a single-day trip. However, accommodations can be arranged upon request with extra cost.

Yes, Nagi Gumba welcomes visitors to observe daily rituals and interact with the nuns in a respectful manner.