Shivapuri National Park (ShNP) is the only national park in close proximity to Kathmandu. It is situated 12 km north of downtown Kathmandu city. The park was established as a watershed and wildlife reserve in 1976. The park was declared as national park in 2003 for the protection of its unique natural adornments. It covers an area of 144 sq. Km that touches 23 Village development Committees of Kathmandu, Nuwakot and Sindhupalchowk Districts. The north-south streche of the part is at an average of 9 km. Whereas the east-west stretch is at an average of 20 kms. ShNP is Watershed are and the source of drinking water for Kathmandu city. It provides a million cubic liters of the water everyday.

The park is home to 177 species of birds, 102 types of butterflies, 129 speices of ferns as well as Himalayan black bear, common wild boar, wildcat, Langur and rhesus monkey.

Access:
Only 12 kilometers away from Kathmandu, the gateway to Shivapuri National Park is Budhailkanta which is 15 to 20 minutes drive away from the city. Another option is via Sundarijal which is about 30 to 45 minutes drive from Kathmandu. From both Budhanilkantha and Sundarjal, the park equires tekking uphill. Yet another way to reach Shivapuri is by driving till Kakani from where the park is an hours trek away.

For Nepalese Nationals, Rs.10/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
(Note: Entrance fee not required for children under 10 years).