Perched on the northern rim of the Kathmandu Valley, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is one of Nepal's finest destinations for bird watching — and one of its most accessible. Just 12 km from the heart of Kathmandu, this protected national park spans 159 square kilometres across four districts and rises from 1,350 metres to a summit of 2,732 metres at Shivapuri Peak.
A comprehensive checklist of the park has recorded a total of 396 species of birds belonging to 18 orders and 71 families. Bird enthusiasts have recorded as many as 320 species within the park, making it a world-class birding destination that draws ornithologists, wildlife photographers, and curious travellers alike.
At Himalayan Helicopter, we bring you closer to this avian paradise through expertly guided bird watching experiences — combining the thrill of rare sightings with the serenity of ancient Himalayan forests.
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is a rare gem in that it sits at the doorstep of a major city yet feels entirely wild. Its diverse elevation range creates a mosaic of subtropical and temperate forest ecosystems — dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests that provide perfect habitat for an extraordinary variety of resident and migratory birds.
Among the park's mammals, you may also encounter leopards, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, and rhesus monkeys during your walk, adding to what is already a richly rewarding nature experience.
Few places in South Asia offer such diversity of bird life within such a short distance of a capital city, which is part of what makes this destination so special for international visitors and locals alike.
Ornithologists have recorded notable species including the Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Slender-billed Scimitar-Babbler, White-gorgeted Flycatcher, Barred Cuckoo-Dove, and Golden-throated Barbet.
Other sought-after species include the Himalayan Griffon, the Spiny Babbler — Nepal's only endemic bird — and the strikingly beautiful Yellow-billed and Red-billed Blue Magpie.
Depending on the season, you may also observe Scarlet Minivet, Maroon Oriole, Black-eared Shrike-Babbler, Green-backed Tit, and various warblers and flycatchers moving through the forest canopy.
The best seasons for bird watching at Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park are September through May. The months of June to August bring the monsoon rains.
The spring season (February to April) is particularly spectacular, as resident birds are actively nesting and calling, and migratory species pass through on their way north. Autumn (September to November) brings crisp skies, comfortable temperatures, and another wave of migrants making the park their temporary home.
Established in 2002, Shivapuri Nagarjun is Nepal's ninth national park. It protects the Shivapuri and Nagarjun hills and encompasses subtropical and temperate forest ecosystems that support diverse flora and fauna. The wildlife reserve is also home to over 2,122 species of flora.
Shivapuri Peak is of deep spiritual significance as the source of the sacred Bagmati and Bishnumati rivers, adding a cultural and religious dimension to the natural experience. The park also holds several pilgrimage sites, making it a meaningful destination beyond bird watching alone.
At Himalayan Helicopter, we pair our deep knowledge of Nepal's wilderness with exceptional on-ground service. Our experienced local guides know the park's trails intimately and understand bird behaviour, seasonal patterns, and the best vantage points for each species. Whether you are a seasoned birder with a life list to build or a first-time visitor looking for a memorable morning in nature, we tailor the experience to your pace and interests.
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No prior experience is needed at all. Our expert guides will brief you on what to look for, how to use binoculars effectively, and how to move quietly through the forest. The tour is designed to be enjoyable for complete beginners as well as experienced birders. All essential equipment guidance is provided on the day.
Bird watching is most rewarding in the early morning hours when birds are most active and vocal. Tours typically begin at dawn and last between four and six hours, though this can be adjusted based on your group's preferences. Our team will confirm your exact schedule at the time of booking.
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Thomas R.GermanyOn April, 2026
An Outstanding Experience, And Highly Professional Organisation
"As A Birder Who Has Visited Several Countries In Asia, I Was Genuinely Impressed By The Diversity At Shivapuri. We Saw Over 40 Species In A Single Morning, Including The Spiny Babbler, Which Was High On My Wish List. An Outstanding Experience, And Highly Professional Organisation."