Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Shivapuri Nagarjun protects the forested hills that close the Kathmandu valley to the north, rising to 2,732 metres at Shivapuri peak, and it is the closest real forest to the capital: oak, rhododendron and pine with leopards, barking deer and a bird list past three hundred species. The park supplies much of the city's water, which is the reason it is protected. Trails climb from the Budhanilkantha gate to Shivapuri summit and to Bagdwar, the source of the Bagmati river, and to the Sundarijal side with waterfalls and the start of the Helambu trek. From the Nagarjun gate a road and trail climb to Jamacho, a stupa on the summit with views over the valley. Day hikes here are the standard escape from Kathmandu.

What you actually see

• Oak and rhododendron forest - the closest woodland to the capital.
• Shivapuri summit - the climb to 2,732 metres above the valley.
• Bagdwar - the source of the Bagmati at the head of the forest.
• Jamacho stupa - the Nagarjun-side summit with valley views.

When to go

October to April for clear air and dry trails; rhododendrons flower in March and April. The monsoon from June to September brings leeches and heavy rain. Mornings are best for birds.

Honest expectations

Trails are steep and the climbs are long, four to six hours for the summits. Leeches are severe in and after the monsoon. Park fees apply at each gate. Solo walking has had occasional problems, so going in company is the usual advice.

Nearby

Budhanilkantha is at the southern gate; Sundarijal is on the eastern side.