Phulchoki Day Hiking from Kathmandu - 1 Day

Early Morning Pickup from Your Hotel:

Your day starts early, with a pickup from your hotel in Kathmandu (typically around 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM depending on your itinerary). The adventure begins as you're greeted by your guide and driver, who will take you on a scenic drive towards Godavari. This is a peaceful area located about 10 km south of Kathmandu, nestled at the foot of the Phulchoki Hill. The drive takes around 30-40 minutes, offering glimpses of rural life, terraced fields, and a view of the surrounding hills as you leave the city behind.

Arriving at Godavari:

Once you arrive at Godavari, a lush area famous for the Royal Botanical Garden, the trailhead for your hike will be ready and waiting. Godavari itself is tranquil and filled with subtropical vegetation, making it the perfect place to start your nature-filled day.

Start of the Hike:

You’ll begin your hike with a gentle climb through a beautiful forest of pine, oak, and rhododendron trees. As you walk along the well-maintained path, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and the fresh mountain air. The trail ascends steadily, and you’ll soon begin to get panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley unfolding below you.

Trail Details:

• Duration: The hike typically takes around 4-6 hours (depending on pace and stops), with breaks along the way.

• Terrain: The trail is mostly dirt path, with some rocky sections, but it’s manageable for those with average fitness levels. The ascent is not too steep, but it can be challenging at certain points, so it’s ideal to take it slow and steady.

As you climb higher, you’ll be passing through scenic spots with occasional views of Kathmandu far below, offering a sense of peace and tranquility. Depending on the time of year, you'll witness the vibrant rhododendron blooms (spring) or the cool, crisp air of winter, or even the lush greenery of summer.

Lunch Break:

There are several tea houses or resting points on the way up where you can stop to catch your breath and have a snack or light lunch. The guide will help you find a spot with great views and offer a break, allowing you to enjoy the scenery before continuing your ascent. You can opt for some local Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) or simple snacks like biscuits and tea.

Reaching the Summit of Phulchoki:

After about 4-6 hours of trekking, you’ll reach the summit of Phulchoki at an altitude of 2,762 meters (9,061 feet). The top of Phulchoki offers one of the best panoramic views in the Kathmandu Valley, where you can see:

• Langtang Himal Range

• Ganesh Himal

• Annapurna Range

• Mount Manaslu (in the distance)

You’ll also have a clear view of the Kathmandu Valley, the town of Bhaktapur, and the surrounding hills and forests. The summit is often breezy and cool, so it's advisable to wear a light jacket or layers to stay comfortable. You can spend some time here, taking in the views, snapping photos, and relaxing.

Descent Back to Godavari:

After enjoying the summit, the hike down begins. The descent typically takes 2-3 hours. It's a bit faster and easier on the knees, though the rocky and sometimes slippery terrain requires careful footing. Along the way down, you’ll retrace your steps through the forest, back to the starting point at Godavari.

Return to Kathmandu:

Once you reach Godavari, your driver will be waiting to take you back to Kathmandu. The drive back takes around 30-40 minutes, and you'll arrive in the city by late afternoon, feeling refreshed from a day spent in nature.