Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Shivapuri Nagarjun Overview

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, locally known as “Shivapuri Nagarjun Rastriya Nikunja,” is a protected area located in the northern fringes of Kathmandu, Nepal. Spanning an area of 61.65 square miles (159 square kilometers), this national park serves as a green haven, offering a stark contrast to the bustling urban environment of the Kathmandu Valley. Established in 2002, it is Nepal’s ninth national park and is named after the Shivapuri Peak, which rises to an elevation of 8,963 feet (2,732 meters), making it a prominent feature of the park’s landscape.

The park boasts a diverse terrain ranging from subtropical to temperate forest ecosystems. Its lush vegetation includes dense forests of oak, rhododendron, pine, and sal trees, alongside groves of bamboo and patches of grassland. These habitats are interspersed with pristine rivers and streams, including the headwaters of the Bagmati and Bishnumati Rivers, which are culturally significant to the local population. The Nagarjun Forest, a significant part of the park, is particularly known for its dense canopy and tranquil atmosphere.

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is home to a rich variety of wildlife. Key mammals include leopards, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, and wild boars, as well as smaller species like mongooses and jackals. Birdwatchers are drawn to the park for its avian diversity, with over 300 bird species recorded, including the colorful Himalayan monal, Nepal’s national bird, as well as laughing thrushes, woodpeckers, and barbets. The park’s streams and wetlands also host a variety of amphibians and reptiles, adding to its ecological richness.

Visitors are captivated by the park’s serene environment and breathtaking views, particularly from the Shivapuri Peak, which offers panoramic vistas of the snow-capped Himalayan range on clear days. The Baghdwar, the origin of the Bagmati River, is another popular spot for spiritual and naturalistic exploration. The Buddhist monasteries within the park, such as Nagi Gompa, add a cultural dimension, providing visitors with opportunities for meditation and tranquility.

The park offers a range of experiences for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Hiking and trekking are particularly popular, with trails that cater to varying levels of difficulty. The Shivapuri Hiking Trail and the trek to Chisapani are well-loved for their scenic beauty. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are other engaging activities. For spiritual seekers, the monasteries and religious sites within the park serve as peaceful retreats.

Conservation efforts in Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park have been instrumental in maintaining its ecological integrity, despite challenges such as urban encroachment and illegal logging. Community-based programs and collaborations with local stakeholders have helped mitigate these issues and ensure the park’s sustainability. Ecotourism initiatives have also played a crucial role in raising awareness and fostering support for its protection.

Park Map

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is also a sanctuary for many bird species, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich variety of avian life, each contributing to the vibrant ecosystem.

Himalayan Monal
The national bird of Nepal, the Himalayan Monal, is famous for its iridescent plumage and vibrant colors. Males have a dazzling metallic green and blue sheen, making them a spectacular sight.

Spiny Babbler
Endemic to Nepal, the Spiny Babbler is a prized bird for visitors. Its elusive nature and melodic calls make it a delightful challenge for bird enthusiasts.

Scarlet Minivet
Known for its vivid red and black coloration, the Scarlet Minivet is often seen flitting through the treetops in pairs or small groups.

Blue Whistling Thrush
A striking bird with dark blue plumage and a yellow bill, the Blue Whistling Thrush is known for its beautiful and melodious whistling calls.

Nepal Fulvetta
This small, sociable bird is commonly seen in mixed-species flocks. Its grayish-brown plumage helps it blend into the dense vegetation.

Red-billed Leiothrix
With its colorful green and orange feathers, the Red-billed Leiothrix is a charming bird often found in the park’s forests. It is known for its delightful song.

Long-tailed Broadbill
This striking bird, with its vibrant green body and long, elegant tail, often moves in noisy flocks, creating a lively scene in the forest.

Mountain Hawk-Eagle
A powerful raptor with striking patterns, the Mountain Hawk-Eagle is a thrilling sight as it soars high above the park’s dense forest canopy.

Rufous Sibia
This medium-sized bird has a beautiful combination of rufous and gray plumage, often spotted in pairs or small groups.

Great Barbet
The Great Barbet is the largest species of barbet in the park, known for its loud, resonant calls and vibrant green, blue, and yellow feathers.

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, located on the northern fringe of Kathmandu Valley in Nepal, is a biodiversity hotspot known for its lush forests, scenic trails, and diverse wildlife. This park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and offers visitors a glimpse into the rich ecosystems of the region. Among the many species that call this park home, several stand out for their popularity and ecological importance.

Himalayan Goral
A small, agile goat-antelope, the Himalayan Goral is commonly found on the steep forested slopes of the park. Its thick coat and nimbleness help it thrive in rugged terrains, making it a fascinating species to spot.

Indian Leopard
This elusive and majestic predator roams the dense forests of Shivapuri Nagarjun. Known for its striking spotted coat, the Indian Leopard plays a crucial role as an apex predator in the park’s ecosystem.

Wild Boar
An adaptable and hardy species, the wild boar is often seen foraging in the undergrowth. It contributes to the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and aerating the soil while digging for food.

Barking Deer (Muntjac)
This shy and solitary deer species is named for its distinctive bark-like call. It can be spotted in the quieter forested areas, where it feeds on fruits, shoots, and leaves.

Indian Pangolin
One of the park’s more unique inhabitants, the Indian Pangolin is known for its protective keratin scales. This nocturnal mammal is a specialist insectivore, feeding primarily on ants and termites.

Himalayan Black Bear
Renowned for its glossy black fur and white chest patch, the Himalayan Black Bear is a charismatic species of the park. These omnivorous mammals forage for berries, fruits, and honey.

Rhesus Macaque
These social and intelligent monkeys are commonly seen in groups throughout the park. They are highly adaptable and play a significant role in seed dispersal.

Chinese Pangolin
Closely related to the Indian Pangolin, the Chinese Pangolin is another scaled mammal that inhabits the park. Its nocturnal habits and burrowing lifestyle make it a rare and special sight.

Clouded Leopard
Known for its beautiful, cloud-like patterned coat, this elusive predator is one of the park’s rarest and most sought-after species by wildlife enthusiasts.

Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten
This sleek and energetic carnivore is known for its striking yellow throat and playful behavior. It is an important mid-level predator in the park’s ecosystem.