Day hike from Budhanilkantha to Nagi Gumba is an incredible trip that Combines a visit to the two most fascinating Buddhist and Hindu religious sites of Nepal’s. You’ll visit the sacred site of sleeping Hindu deity Vishnu then starting hiking through the idyllic woodlands of Shivapuri National Park to Nagi Gompa (1650m). Offering outstanding views of Kathmandu Valley, this Buddhist monastery is located on a majestic hilltop.

What You Can Expect 
View of Kathmandu Valley Explore both the deep religious traditions and gorgeous outdoor scenery of Nepal during this 6- to 7-hour day trip from Kathmandu. During the course of your day, you’ll explore beautiful Hindu and Buddhist religious complexes, while also enjoying a laid-back hike through a nearby national park. Start your trip in the morning, leaving from the courtyard of the Kathmandu Guest House in the city's Thamel district. You’ll continue with your guide about 15 minutes by foot to the nearest bus stop, where you’ll climb aboard and travel like a local to your day’s first stop at Budhanilkantha. This Hindu religious site pays homage for sleeping Vishnu, the religion’s god of preservation. Admire the elegantly carved stone statue of Vishnu visible from the outer periphery of the complex’s pond (non-Hindus are not permitted inside), a visual trick that makes the god appear to float above the water’s surface. Snap a few pictures of this striking religious center while your guide explains the background of this unique Hindu figure. Then lace up your hiking shoes for a 9-mile (15-kilometer) hike into the nearby farmlands, leading into the forest reserve at Shivapuri National Park. Register at the park gate before spending the next 2.5 hours strolling through the gorgeous woods, heading to the Buddhist monastery at Nagi Gompa. Your walk slowly becomes steeper as you proceed uphill for around 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) to arrive at the Buddhist complex, enjoying beautiful views of Kathmandu Valley below as you climb. The area has earned a reputation as a great spot for bird watching, so keep your eyes peeled as you proceed. You may even be able to spot the snow-covered Himalayas far off in the distance. Take a break for exploring, eating and resting when you reach the monastery. Snacks are available for purchase, or you may bring along your own lunch. After getting your fill of this remarkable Buddhist sanctuary, head back downhill for another hour through the forest, proceeding past some beautiful waterfalls as you head back into the area of Sundarijal, where you’ll have time to explore the local market. At the conclusion of your shopping, hop aboard another local bus for the 1-hour trip back to your starting point in Kathmandu.

Details Inclusions Entrance fees Local guide Round-trip fare on local transport Exclusions Gratuities (optional) Hotel pickup and drop-off Food and drinks Additional info Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability 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 Voucher info You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity. What's this? Local operator information Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.