Bagdwar Source of Bagmati
Hike to the sacred source of the Bagmati River in Shivapuri National Park, offering stunning valley views and lush forest trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Escape the city bustle
Bagdwar Source of Bagmati
Best Time
Escape the city bustle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the sacred source of the Bagmati River in Shivapuri National Park, offering stunning valley views and lush forest trails.
"The views at the top were quite nice, especially if you catch clear weather. A great little escape from the city."
Carry Plenty of Water 💧
No shops on most routes; pack enough water and snacks for your hike.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Trails can be steep and uneven, especially near the summit. Good grip is key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sacred Bagdwar Source
Shivapuri National Park
Discover the serene origin of the Bagmati River, a spiritual and natural wonder.
Panoramic Valley Views
Summit viewpoints
Witness breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks.
Lush Forest Trails
Shivapuri National Park trails
Trek through vibrant rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, a true escape into nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Trails for a Day Trip
Pack Smart for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Plenty of Water 💧
No shops on most routes; pack enough water and snacks for your hike.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Trails can be steep and uneven, especially near the summit. Good grip is key.
Baghdwar/Bishnudwar hiking
Shivapuri Hike inquiries
Go with a Buddy 🤝
Hiking with a partner enhances safety and enjoyment on the trails.
Pack Out Your Trash ♻️
Leave no trace; carry your waste until you find a proper disposal spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Plenty of Water 💧
No shops on most routes; pack enough water and snacks for your hike.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Trails can be steep and uneven, especially near the summit. Good grip is key.
Go with a Buddy 🤝
Hiking with a partner enhances safety and enjoyment on the trails.
Pack Out Your Trash ♻️
Leave no trace; carry your waste until you find a proper disposal spot.
Choose Your Route Wisely 🗺️
Bagdwar is often recommended over Bishnudwar for a more rewarding hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bagdwar for its invigorating hikes and stunning panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas. The trails through lush forests are a major draw, offering a peaceful escape from the city. However, hikers should be prepared for steep ascents and the lack of amenities, emphasizing the need to carry ample water and snacks.
"Bhasmasur Hike is a magnificent one-day nature walk around Kathmandu Valley at the weekend. Multiple routes to reach here. Hiking along the Jungle Stone Paved trails. Chances of wildlife encounters. One can enjoy Majestic 360’ view of Mountain Ranges, Kathmandu Valley. Get yourself a partner to Hike along."
Rahul Shakya
"Went for a hike to Bhasmasur Danda yesterday honestly, a pretty good experience. The trail was manageable, with just enough uphill to make it feel like a real hike. The views at the top were quite nice, especially if you catch clear weather. Nothing too dramatic, but still very peaceful. A great little escape from the city if you're up for a half-day nature break around Kathmandu."
Santosh Dahal
"Started the hike from Machhegaun. Bought some snacks, some juice and water. Visited the Machhe Narayan Temple, a Buddha statue and an under construction stupa. It took around 4 hours to get to that top. The trails were good for most of the part but as we reached the top, the path got more inclined. And when we got to the top that view was worth every effort. You can feel the fresh air as you got near the top. A very beautiful experience. Good for a one day hike near Kathmandu.
I recommend carrying enough water because there are no shops along this route. We hiked down from Chhap bhanjyang to Machhegaun. It was easier and quicker. It was the better option as going down the same path we came would have been a very difficult experience for sure. Also please carry the trash yourself untill you find a spot to properly dispose it."
Oken shrestha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point for Bagdwar hikes is Budhanilkantha. From Kathmandu, you can take a taxi or local bus to Budhanilkantha. From there, the hiking trails into Shivapuri National Park begin. Some also start from Machhegaun.
Yes, Bagdwar is a popular day hike destination from Kathmandu. The duration can vary depending on the chosen route and your pace, but most visitors complete it within a half-day to a full day.
Many hikers recommend starting from Budhanilkantha for a scenic route through Shivapuri National Park. Another option is Machhegaun, which also offers beautiful trails.
Local buses and microbuses operate from various points in Kathmandu to Budhanilkantha and surrounding areas, making it accessible via public transport. Taxis are also readily available.
The hiking time to Bagdwar can range from 2 to 4 hours one way, depending on your fitness level and the specific trail you take.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entry fee for Shivapuri National Park. It's advisable to check the current rates at the park entrance or with local authorities before your visit.
Shivapuri National Park generally opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to start your hike early to allow ample time.
Currently, online ticket purchasing is not widely advertised for Shivapuri National Park. Tickets are typically purchased at the park entrance.
While a park entry fee is required, specific hiking permits beyond that are generally not needed for day hikes to Bagdwar. Always confirm with park officials.
Payment for park entry is usually in cash (Nepalese Rupees). It's a good idea to have smaller denominations handy.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trails are a mix of stone-paved paths and natural forest floor. Expect steady inclines, especially as you approach the summit, making it a good workout.
Shivapuri National Park is home to various flora and fauna. While not guaranteed, you might spot monkeys, deer, and a variety of bird species.
The summit offers spectacular 360-degree views of the Kathmandu Valley, and on clear days, you can see distant Himalayan ranges.
Most main trails are relatively well-trodden, but it's always wise to have a map or use a navigation app, especially if exploring less common routes.
Restroom facilities are very limited or non-existent on most hiking trails within Shivapuri National Park. Plan accordingly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or tea houses directly on the hiking trails to Bagdwar. You'll need to carry all your food and drinks with you.
Pack energy-rich snacks like nuts, fruits, granola bars, and sandwiches. Don't forget plenty of water.
Yes, you can purchase snacks and water from shops in Budhanilkantha or Machhegaun before you begin your trek.
It is not recommended to drink water from natural sources along the trail due to potential contamination. Always carry your own purified water.
While there are no designated picnic spots, you can find clearings along the trail to stop and enjoy your packed meal amidst nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit viewpoints offer the most dramatic scenery for panoramic shots of the valley and mountains. The forest trails also provide beautiful natural backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the best views and softer lighting on the landscape. Clear weather is crucial for mountain visibility.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive valley views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain peaks. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of any religious sites or local customs you might encounter.
Drone usage may be restricted within national parks. It's best to check with park authorities for current regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making stops at interesting points along the trail, like unique trees or rock formations, to keep younger hikers engaged. The experience of reaching a summit and seeing the valley spread out below can be a memorable achievement for children. Remember to emphasize the importance of respecting nature and carrying out all trash.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and water is key to keeping costs down, as there are no vendors on the trails. This also allows you to enjoy a picnic amidst nature. The hike itself is free once you've paid the park entrance fee, making it a highly cost-effective way to experience Nepal's natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bagdwar Hike Experience
Several routes lead to Bagdwar, with the path from Budhanilkantha being a favored choice. This route takes you through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, providing a cool and shaded environment. Along the way, you might encounter small streams and diverse birdlife. The spiritual significance of Bagdwar, as the source of the Bagmati River, adds another layer to the visit, making it a place of both natural beauty and cultural importance.
It's crucial to be well-prepared for this hike. Carrying sufficient water and snacks is paramount, as amenities are scarce. Comfortable hiking boots are a must due to the uneven and sometimes steep terrain. Many visitors recommend hiking with a companion for safety and enjoyment. Remember to practice responsible tourism by carrying out all your trash and respecting the natural environment.
Wildlife and Nature in Shivapuri National Park
The flora of Shivapuri is equally impressive, with extensive coverage of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. During the spring season, the rhododendron blooms add vibrant splashes of color to the landscape, creating a truly picturesque scene. The park's natural beauty is a significant draw for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape. The well-maintained trails allow visitors to immerse themselves in this natural splendor.
Conservation efforts are vital for preserving the park's natural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, stay on marked paths, and avoid disturbing the wildlife. By respecting the park's rules and natural environment, hikers can ensure that Shivapuri National Park remains a pristine sanctuary for generations to come.
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