Phulchowki Day Hike | A Day Hike in Kathmandu

Trip Facts

Trip Duration 1 Day

Trip Difficulty Easy & Enjoyable

Maximum Altitude 2,791 m/9,058 ft.

Best Season To Visit Spring, Autumn, and Winter

Trip Overview

Pulchowki hill is a rewarding experience for a day hike in Kathmandu and bird watching. This is also the highest peak (2,791 m/9,058ft) on the valley rim and is situated 10 km southeast of Patan. Phulchowki is the name of the almighty goddess residing on the top of this hill. In Nepali, the term ‘Phul’ means ‘flower’. Its meaning also suggests that Phulchowki is well-known for diverse floras such as rhododendron, wild roses, jasmine, and many more.

If you happen to trek on this route in March-April or in July and August you might have a chance to watch the month-long annual religious festival held at the shrine to Phulchowki Mai, and some other major festivals on the full moon days in July and August annually.

This is one of the most beautiful hikes in terms of vegetation in Kathmandu valley. It’s the perfect place for those who are bird enthusiasts. The hike offers the chance to sight a variety of birds like Flycatcher, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Yellow-browed Tit, Grey-headed Woodpecker, Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike, and many more. Apart from birds, it is also a fabulous place for butterflies too. From here, the views of the Himalayas, and the valley are marvelous. Besides, Phulchowki Hill is a vantage point for marvelous mountain views and a birds-eye view of Kathmandu Valley. This hike is one of the popular day hike in Kathmandu.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: 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 set off 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.