KAKANI

It is located 29km northwest of Kathmandu at an elevation of 2002m. The 1½ hr journey from Kathmandu goes up a beautiful scenic road
You can see a fantastic view of the northwestern Himalayan ranges from Kakani. You can see Ganesh Himal (7,111m), Manaslu (8,163m), Garuishanker (7,134m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). The sunrise and sunset are especially impressive. It is no where near as popular as Nagarkot. Besides viewing the mountain there is nothing really to do. It is a good idea to stay overnight, because usually the views are better in the morning, before the cloud cover the scenery. The offerings of nature provide the impetus to visit Kakani, and nature lovers will hail the close-up view of Ganesh Himal to the north, as well as the beautiful oak and rhododendron forests on the south slope leading down to Balaju. Accommodation in resort hotels and lodges.

SHIVAPURI

Shivapuri at the northern end of the Kathmandu Valley is a terrific hill-top retreat. At 2,732 m, it is second only to Phulchoki in height, but its richness in flora and fauna as well as the views it offers are certainly not diminished by the 30 m it lacks. The area encompasses a protected reserve which harbors many rare and endangered animal and bird species. Spread over 144 sq km, the Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve is home to the sloth bear, langur monkey, leopard and barking deer among others. Its rich flora include orchids, rhododendrons and a variety of medicinal and herbal plants.

To get there, head north from Balaju or Budhanilkantha at the foot of Shivapuri hill up the well-paved road until you reach the gate of the reserve. From there, you need to hike up a steep trail passing Nagi Gompa, a Buddhist monastery. Walking along the ridges adorned with fluttering prayer flags and Buddhist stupas and again through the dense wood for about two hours brings you to the summit. It is a large flat area which makes it an excellent site for those who wish to get a panoramic view of the Himalaya. After a leisurely rest, you can either go back down the same route or follow the ridge descending south towards the stupa at Bouddhanath. The third alternative - a small and steep trail - brings you down to Budhanilkantha.

Shivapuri has its spiritual association with Buddhism. Owing to its serenity, the place has for centuries been a favored place for many Buddhist saints and their disciples. According to a popular account, when Buddha came to the Valley to pay homage to Swayambhu, he could not find the water needed to initiate his hundreds of disciples. With his mystic power of voice, he created an abundant stream that was endowed with the power to purify sins. The sacred Bagmati River that flows through Kathmandu originates at Shivapuri.

Comfortable Hotels & Resort are avaliable