Day Hikes and Short Walks · Hikes

What is the Phulchoki hike?

By Base Camp Tours, licensed Nepal travel agency (Tourism License 3121/080) · Updated · 1 min read

The short answer

Phulchoki (about 2,780 m) is the highest hill on the Kathmandu Valley rim, known for forest, birds and spring rhododendrons. Hike from Godavari or drive up the road and walk the last section.

Key facts

Height
About 2,780 m
Start
Godavari
Time
5 to 8 hours
Best
Mar to Apr, Oct to Nov

How it works

  1. Reach GodavariA taxi from Patan takes under an hour.
  2. Start earlyThe climb is long.
  3. Look for birds and flowersRhododendrons bloom in spring.
  4. Reach the topThere is a small temple and viewpoint.
  5. Descend carefullyKnees feel the steep drop.

Insider tip

Bring binoculars; the forest has many bird species.

Avoid this

Do not go in heavy rain; trails get slippery.

Related questions

Is Phulchoki worth it?

Yes for nature lovers; views depend on weather.

Can I drive up?

Roads reach near the top in dry season, but the track is rough.

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