6 h

Full Day

Instant confirmation

About this activity

Rendezvous in Thamel in the morning and walk 15 minutes with your guide and small group to the nearest bus stand, where you’ll jump on board and travel like a local 30 minutes to Budhanilkantha.

This holy site is home to sleeping Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Observe the magnificently carved stone idol of sleeping Vishnu from the outer periphery of the pond (non-Hindus are not allowed inside), on which Vishnu seems to float. Be sure to have your camera ready as your guide tells the interesting story of this venerated religious figure.

You’ll then embark on a moderate 9-mile (15-km) hike into the surrounding farmlands and through Kathmandu’s nearest forest reserve, Shivapuri National Park. After registering at the park entry gate, take a pleasant 2.5-hour walk through the woods to a hidden Buddhist monastery, Nagi Gompa.

Hike uphill 2.5 miles (4 km) to reach this site and pause to enjoy sweeping views of the Kathmandu valley below. This spot is great for bird watching, and on a clear day, you may be able to see the snow-capped Himalayas! You may also purchase snacks here, or feel free to enjoy your own pre-packed lunch.

Once you’ve snapped some unforgettable photos, descend down the hill and continue hiking 1 hour through the woodlands, past waterfalls and out of the forest until you reach Sundarijal, where you’ll visit a local bazaar.

After your hike, hop back on the bus and begin your 1-hour journey back to Kathmandu.

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Included

Local guide
Round-trip fare on local transport
Entry/Admission - Budhanilkantha
Entry/Admission - Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Not included

Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks

Additional

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
A large amount of walking is involved; comfortable walking/trail shoes are recommended
Please note that there has been significant damage to some of the sites visited on this tour due to the earthquakes in April and May 2015
Maximum group size is 12.
Children below the age of 6 are not permitted on this tour.

Features

Tourism

85%

Cultural

45%

Aquatic

15%

Reviews

3.4

6

D

Darryl T

3 | 2014-12-04

Pleasant hike to somewhat interesting places.

A

Achilleas X

3 | 2013-10-23

A nice hike through the Shivapuri national park, to reach the beautiful monastery Nagi Gumba near the peak of Shivapuri hill. A hike down from the other side of the mountain. I went mid-October it was very sunny, remember to get some sunscreen. Guide was definitely an expert knowing the path very well. Prepare for the local transport to and fro it is a bit crammy. All in all worth doing if you haven't got too many days to do a proper trek.

A

Aura Sebyl S

5 | 2013-09-13

Nice and close to the city. Monastery is cool!

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