Phulchowki Hiking

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Jyatha, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal

Overview

Phulchowki is the highest hill in Kathmandu valley. It is situated at an elevation of 2782m and resides in the southeast part of Kathmandu. This is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in terms of vegetation and offers the chance to sight a variety of birds.

"Phulchowki" means "hill full of flowers," in Nepali. Many varieties from trees to shrubs, wildflowers, and beautiful rhododendron and magnolia are in full bloom. Likewise, during the winter, this hill becomes a snow beauty draped in a soft, simmering white veil. The hill station provides a wonderful view of high Himalayan peaks including Annapurna and Manaslu peaks in the far west, and the enormous Ganesh, Langtang, and Jugal Himal range in the middle north, as well as vistas of Mt. Everest and its range to the east.

The Phulchowki Day Hike begins, with a short drive to Godawari which lies at the base of the hill. The trail winds uphill through lush foliage and tall trees, passing through a few small farms and villages. The journey progresses through the dense vegetation till the summit of Phulchowki Hill, the highest point in the area offering a bird's eye perspective of Kathmandu Valley and nearby villages, as well as astonishing Himalayan views. You can see a variety of birds such as Rufous-gorged, Yellow-browed Tit, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Red-billed Leiothrix, different species of butterflies, and wild animals, resulting in the hill as an excellent site for botanists and naturalists. The hikers can also observe the religious ceremony happening at the Phulchowki Mai Temple which is seated on this hilltop during March or April.

Trip highlights

Opportunity to witness different species of birds, butterflies, and wildlife.
Phulchowki Mai Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site on the top of the hill.
An amazing journey to the highest hill around the Kathmandu valley.
Sublime views of the Himalayas such as the Annapurna ranges and Gaurishankar.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Drive to Godavari (1,500 m) Approx. 1 hour depends on traffic. Hike to Phulchowki (2,791 m) Approx. 5 hours hike

After breakfast, you take a drive through the heavy, chaotic traffic on the streets up to Lagankhel and then along the less busy road to the Godavari at the foot of the Phulchowki hill.

You begin the hike from Godawari. The trail takes you through beautiful vegetation with a variety of wildflowers and bird species. The trial involves multiple shortcut routes and a series of sharp switchbacks. The higher you climb, you get to see more stunning views, varied trees, and sunlight piercing through towering trees. Then follow the gravel path through the thick forest, you’ll come across a small area adorned with vibrant prayer flags that are sure to elevate your mood.

The final section of the Phulchowki Hike has one of the most exhausting ascents, so it is recommended to walk at a gradual and steady pace. Once you reach the hill, you will get to witness the wonderful scenery of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and Gaurishankar Himal to the east and the entire landscape of the Kathmandu Valley. If you happen to be in the spring, you find the whole Phulchowki hill is covered with blossoming red flowers called rhododendron.