Shivapuri is a retreat atop a hill at the northern end of the Kathmandu Valley. Situated at an altitude of 2732 m, the area encompass a protected reserve which harbors many rare and endangered animal and bird species. Shivapuri Hiking begins at Budhanilkantha (northern Kathmandu) with the option end at Nagarkot or Dhulikhel. At Budhanilkantha, you have the chance to see the ancient statue of Lord Vishnu sleeping on a bed of snakes. Spectacular panoramic views of snow capped Himalayan peaks and a magnificent view of the sunset and sunrise, with the magical change of color that they produce on the mountains, will be seen from the slopes of Shivapuri, the second highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley. The valley rim lies between 1800 and 2800m and in spring offers early flowering rhododendrons.