Offering group discounts!
Reserve with a 20% deposit. The balance isn't due until 60 days before departure, and cancellations more than 60 days out get a full deposit refund. How booking works →
Duration
1 Days
Difficulty
Easy
Max. Altitude
2782 m
Prime Activity
Tours In Nepal
Season
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
Group Size
1-12 people
Need a quick nature break without leaving the valley? Phulchowki hiking is one of the most rewarding day hikes around Kathmandu, offering lush greenery, peaceful trails, and panoramic mountain views—all within a short drive from the city. Situated southeast of Kathmandu, Phulchowki Hill stands at 2,782 meters and is the highest point in the Kathmandu Valley. This moderate-level hike is perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, and those who want to escape the noise of the city for a day of forest therapy and fresh air.
The hike typically begins from Godawari, a quiet town known for its botanical gardens. From here, the trail gradually ascends through a beautiful subtropical forest. Along the way, hikers can spot a wide variety of plants, birds, and butterflies, making the experience rich in biodiversity. The forest is especially famous during the spring season when rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors, painting the hillside in shades of red and pink. This makes Phulchowki one of the best nature trails near Kathmandu, especially from March to May.
The Phulchowki hiking route is approximately 14 kilometers round trip, with a steady but manageable climb that takes around 5 to 7 hours, including breaks. At the top of Phulchowki Hill, you're rewarded with breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and Gaurishankar on clear days. There is also a small Hindu shrine surrounded by colorful prayer flags, offering a quiet space for reflection. From the summit, you can see the entire stretch of the Kathmandu Valley below, making it a perfect spot for photos, meditation, or simply soaking in the view. Apart from that, Phulchowki hiking difficulty is considered moderate, making it a great choice for beginners and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape near Kathmandu.
On your return, you’ll follow the same trail back to Godawari, where you can choose to stop for lunch or visit the botanical gardens. From Godawari, a private or local vehicle takes you back to Kathmandu, ending a refreshing day of natural beauty and soft adventure.
From Godawari Botanical Garden, the Phulchowki hiking route climbs steadily under thick rhododendron forest. After about two hours you’ll reach a colorful prayer-flag rest point. A final push brings you to the army checkpoint and the summit temple. Panoramic views reveal Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Gaurishankar ranges plus the Kathmandu Valley carpet far below. Return by the same trail—or take guide-only shortcuts—to Godawari and drive back to town.
(Rental of trekking poles, jackets, and daypacks available in Kathmandu on request.)
Swap city noise for forest calm and big-sky views on our fully guided Phulchowki hike from Kathmandu. Hit the “Book Now” button to lock in your preferred date—nature is calling!
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Not sure of your dates yet? Hold a departure with a 20% deposit. Cancel more than 60 days out and your deposit is refunded in full. Your first date change is free. If a departure doesn't reach minimum numbers, we'll offer you the nearest alternative date or a full refund, and we'll let you know at least 30 days out.
Before you think of or actually plan any adventurous or relaxing tours, travels, or treks with Nepal Outdoor Expeditions.
If you cancel more than 60 days before departure, we refund your deposit in full. Between 30 and 60 days, the 20% deposit is retained. Inside 30 days the trip cost is non-refundable, since by then we've already paid for your permits, flights, and teahouse bookings. Full detail on our booking page.
20% to reserve your place, with the balance due 60 days before departure. On this trek that's $21 to book and $84 two months before you fly. If you're booking within 7 days of departure, the full amount is due at booking.
Yes, as long as you let us know at least 30 days before your original departure date, your first change is free. Any change after that, or a change requested inside 30 days, is $200 per person.
Phulchowki Hiking
