Baghdwar or Bagdwar is where the well-known Bagmati River starts. It is the origin of the holy Bagmati River, located in Shivpuri Dada, on the north side of Kathmandu Valley. Every year on the first day of Baisakh (Nepali new year day), there’s a big fair held here. The Shivpuri watershed area is vital for supporting life in Kathmandu Valley. It’s also a famous spot for hiking. Baghdwar hiking is short and easy hiking from Kathmandu.
Shivapuri Narjun National Park is located in the Northern part of Kathmandu valley and the Shivapuri hill is considered as the second highest hill near Kathmandu. This National Park was registered as the 9th National Park in 2002 A.D.
In Srimad Pashupati Puran, it is said that Mahadev was impressed by Bhakta Prahlad prayer. Bagmati originated from Mahadev’s Vocals when he appeared in the Shivapuri mountain. For Hindus and Buddhists, Baghdwar is a sacred pilgrimage site. There are several Hindu and Buddhist statues along with naga stone carvings.
Budhanilkantha to Baghdwar hiking
When you get to the military check post at Shivpuri Nagarjuna National Park, you need to pay an entry fee. Soldiers there will check the bags of hikers, and certain items like lighters and matches are not allowed. It is strictly prohibited to take lighters, weapons and matches inside the national park area. It is also not advised to carry raw meat, as its smell may attract wild animals like tigers, increasing the risk of an attack.
After walking from check post at Shivpuri Nagarjuna National Park the trail goes uphill through a dense forest full of trees, birds, and fresh air. Along the way, you will pass Nagi Gumba, a peaceful Buddhist monastery. The path is sometimes steep and rocky, so comfortable shoes and water are important. After hiking for about 3 to 4 hours, you will reach Baghdwar, the source of the Bagmati River.
If you wish to reach the Shivapuri peak then it will take additional 20-30 minutes. The Shivapuri Peak trail is steep but has stairs along the way. Climbing the stairs uphill can be a little hard, but once you reach the top, you’ll find a flat open area. There, you will also see a statue of Shivapuri Baba. Some people even meditate there.
Before entering the national park, make sure you have dry food and water. There is not any shop on this trail.
Baghdwar hiking difficulty
The hike to Baghdwar is moderately difficult. It is not very easy, but also not too hard. The trail goes through the beautiful Shivapuri National Park with many trees, birds, and sometimes monkeys. The path can be steep and rocky in some places, so you need to be careful and wear good hiking shoes. If you are healthy and walk regularly, you can complete the hike without much trouble.
Things to remember
- During the hike, there is no shelter if it rains, so bringing an umbrella or raincoat is a smart idea during the rainy season.
- If you are not used to walking or if you are overweight, the hike might feel a little difficult. In that case, you can walk slowly and take your time. You may feel tired quickly if you try to walk fast uphill.
- In some areas, there may be no mobile signal.
Baghdwar hiking photos
How to reach Baghdwar?
You can reach Baghdwar through different paths like Pani muhan, or Nagi Gumba.
Hiking route: Budanilkantha – Pani Muhan (Shivpuri Nagarjuna National Park entrance gate ticket counter) – Helipad – Deurali from Deurali kholsa: Bagdwar (15-20 minutes), Tin chuli (30-40 minutes) and Shivapuri peak (35-50 minutes) – Bagdwar – Shivapuri Peak