Shivapuri Forest Traverse to Chisapani

The finest point-to-point hike in the Kathmandu Valley — a full 15 km traverse of Shivapuri National Park from the southern Budhanilkantha gate to Chisapani viewpoint on the northern rim. This is the hike that serious trekkers use to benchmark the valley's trail network. Start at the Muhanpokhari gate in Budhanilkantha, climb through dense old-growth forest for 8 km to Shivapuri ridge, then descend the north side through rhododendron and oak to Chisapani at 2,200 m — where a trekking lodge and clear views of the Langtang range await. The trail is fully forested for the first 12 km and offers solitude throughout. Wildlife is common: deer, langur monkeys, and over 300 bird species. The Chisapani endpoint sits on the Helambu trekking route, so you feel the atmosphere of a real mountain trail rather than a day hike loop. Logistics: arrange a vehicle pickup at Sundarijal or Chisapani in advance, or take a local bus from Sundarijal to Kathmandu. This is a one-way hike — plan your return. Entry permit: Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park fee — NPR 100 Nepali / NPR 600 SAARC / NPR 1,000 foreign, paid at the main gate. No TIMS required.