The Shivapuri Hike: Lunch With Nuns offers a unique opportunity for adventurous travelers seeking a deeper connection with Nepal’s spiritual heritage. This full-day excursion combines a guided trek through the serene Shivapuri National Park with a rare chance to share a locally-prepared meal and insights into the lives of Buddhist nuns. With small group sizes and flexible scheduling, the experience promises a personalized encounter with nature and culture, leaving participants intrigued to learn more about the interplay between the region’s natural beauty and its contemplative religious traditions.
Key Points
- The Shivapuri Hike includes a visit to a nunnery, where participants can enjoy a local lunch freshly prepared by the resident nuns.
- The hike offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to gain insights into the peaceful lifestyle and spiritual practices of the nuns.
- The tranquil setting of the nunnery provides a serene respite from the city, enhancing the connection between the participants and the nuns over the shared meal.
- This activity is limited to a small group of 12 individuals, ensuring a personalized and interactive experience throughout the hike and the visit to the nunnery.
- The hike also includes breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and exploration of the natural beauty of the Shivapuri National Park.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Activity Overview
- Experience Highlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Participant Information
- Transportation and Permits
- Nunnery and Lunch
- Refund and Cancellation
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Hiking Difficulty Level?
- Can I Bring My Own Food?
- Is Photography Allowed at the Nunnery?
- Is This Activity Suitable for Children?
- Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Nepal
- More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Nepal
- More Tour Reviews in Nepal
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Nepal we have recnetly reviewed
Activity Overview
The Shivapuri Hike offers visitors the unique opportunity to enjoy a lunch with nuns, priced at €105.00 per person. This full-day adventure includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility.
Participants can expect to explore a National Park near Kathmandu’s international airport, witnessing the peaceful lifestyle of Buddhist nuns and savoring a locally-prepared lunch. Though the hike may not be suitable for those with low fitness levels, the small group size of 12 ensures a personalized experience.
Availability can be checked for various start times, making it easy to plan your day. Whether you’re seeking culture or simply a day in nature, the Shivapuri Hike promises an unforgettable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Nepal.
Experience Highlights
Hikers can expect to enjoy the natural beauty of the Shivapuri National Park, located conveniently near Kathmandu’s international airport.
They’ll witness the peaceful lifestyle of the nuns and gain insights into the practices of Buddhism.
The highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the local lunch, freshly prepared by the nuns.
On clear days, participants can enjoy breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley from the trail.
The serene atmosphere of the nunnery provides a welcome respite from the bustling city.
Itinerary
The hike begins with a pickup and drive to the base of the Shivapuri National Park, where participants obtain the necessary permits and receive a briefing before setting out on the trails.
Hikers then trek through the beautiful trails, admiring the stunning valley views and breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Upon reaching the nunnery, hikers are welcomed to enjoy a local lunch prepared by the nuns and explore the peaceful surroundings.
After the visit, the group descends from the national park gate and is driven back to the starting point, concluding the immersive experience of witnessing the lifestyle of the nuns and understanding the Buddhist culture.
Inclusions
This experience includes private transportation, a local lunch, a local expert guide, and entrance tickets.
Tips and gratuities are also covered, but personal expenses and extra food/drinks are excluded.
The local lunch is prepared by the nuns, allowing participants to enjoy an authentic meal during their visit to the nunnery.
The local expert guide will accompany the group throughout the hike, providing valuable insights about the national park, the nunnery, and the Buddhist way of life.
More Great Tours NearbyParticipant Information
Participants are limited to a small group of 12 individuals, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The group size allows for a more immersive and interactive journey, where participants can engage with the guide, learn about the nuns’ lifestyle, and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the nunnery. The limited capacity also ensures a more comfortable and manageable experience, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the hike and the cultural exchange.
Those with low fitness levels may find the hike challenging, as the trail involves ascents through the national park.
To secure a spot, travelers can reserve now and pay later, avoiding the need for upfront payment.
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Transportation and Permits
Beginning the hike, participants are first driven to the base of the Shivapuri National Park, where they’ll obtain the necessary permits before setting off on the trail.
This administrative step ensures everyone is properly registered and authorized to enter the protected area.
Once the permits are secured, the guide will provide a brief orientation, explaining the route, expected duration, and any important safety considerations.
With the formalities out of the way, the group can then embark on their scenic trek through the park, leaving the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu behind as they enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Nunnery and Lunch
As the group ascends the scenic trails, they reach the nunnery, where they’re welcomed by the resident nuns. The nuns invite the hikers to explore the peaceful surroundings and join them for a local lunch prepared within the nunnery.
| Nunnery Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Peaceful Atmosphere | The nunnery exudes a calming and serene ambiance, offering respite from the bustling city. |
| Lifestyle Insight | Visitors gain a unique glimpse into the daily lives and spiritual practices of the nuns. |
| Authentic Cuisine | The local lunch, prepared by the nuns, provides an authentic culinary experience and a chance to savor Nepalese flavors. |
The hikers eagerly accept the invitation, excited to enjoy the tranquil setting and connect with the nuns over a shared meal.
Refund and Cancellation
Travelers can cancel their Shivapuri hike up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility should plans change. This free cancellation policy allows participants to book with confidence, knowing they won’t lose their money if they need to alter their itinerary.
The activity is valid for one day, so travelers can choose the start time that best fits their schedule. With this hassle-free booking process, adventurers can focus on anticipating the incredible hike through the Shivapuri National Park, the insightful visit to the nunnery, and the delicious local lunch prepared by the nuns.
The flexible cancellation ensures a seamless experience from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Hiking Difficulty Level?
The hiking difficulty level appears to be moderate. While it’s not suitable for those with low fitness levels, the hike through beautiful trails allows participants to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the nunnery and scenic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
Can I Bring My Own Food?
You can bring your own food, but it’s not recommended as the experience includes a local lunch prepared by the nuns. The tour package aims to immerse participants in the nuns’ lifestyle and cuisine.
Is Photography Allowed at the Nunnery?
Photography is generally allowed at the nunnery, though visitors should be respectful and ask for permission before taking photos. It’s important to follow the nuns’ guidelines to preserve the serene atmosphere of the site.
Is This Activity Suitable for Children?
The activity may not be suitable for young children, as the hike requires a moderate fitness level. However, older children who can handle the trail may find the cultural experience at the nunnery engaging and educational.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
No special equipment is required for this activity. Comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and sun protection are recommended to fully enjoy the scenic hike and experience at the nunnery.
Shivapuri Hike : Lunch With Nuns
Recap
The Shivapuri Hike: Lunch With Nuns offers an immersive experience in Nepal’s tranquil Shivapuri National Park.
Hikers can trek through stunning landscapes, enjoy a locally-prepared lunch at a Buddhist nunnery, and gain insights into the nuns’ spiritual practices.
The small group size and flexible schedule provide a personalized adventure amidst nature’s beauty, with a hassle-free cancellation policy for added convenience.
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