Phulchoki Day Hike Overview
Phulchowki Day Hike is a great day excursion destination for those who do not want to spend multiple days trekking but wish to witness the snow-capped Himalayas in Nepal. Phulchowki Hill is the highest hill that encircles the Kathmandu Valley standing at an elevation of 2750 meters above sea level. This hill station is located just 20 kilometers from the city and is well-known for providing visitors with beautiful vistas that are truly enchanting.
"Phulchowki" means "hill full of flowers," in Nepali. Indeed, it is a wonderful site that comes alive in the springtime as the vibrant petals, painted with the hues of sunshine carpet the entire hill with its enchanting tapestry. 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.
It is a magnificent scenic spot to get away from city life for a day and be in intimate harmony with nature. It is a place where one may breathe fresh, pure country air while taking in breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan Mountain range. 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.
Aside from the breathtaking views of Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding stunning sceneries and Snowy Mountains, the area is also well-known for bird-watching. 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 located on this hilltop during March or April.
In a nutshell, the Phulchowki Day Hike allows visitors to explore the naturally rich sceneries and biodiversity on such a peaceful trail, which indeed makes their holiday splendid, and memorable, with soft adventure and enjoyment.
Phulchowki Day Hike Highlights
- An amazing journey to the highest hill around the Kathmandu Valley
- Sublime views of the Himalayas such as the Annapurna ranges and Gaurishankar
- The peaceful and rich Botanical Garden
- Opportunity to witness different species of birds, butterflies, and wildlife
- Phulchowki Mai Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site on the top of the hill
Best Time to Do Phulchowki Day Hike
Phulchowki Day Hike can be done any month of the year. However, the finest seasons are spring and autumn owing to its blue skies and clear views.
March through May is one of the best seasons for clear views and it is when the wildflowers are in bloom, especially red Rhododendrons and magnolia, and the mountains are spectacular. The day will be lovely, with a cool morning and evening. Also, during March or April, there is a month-long religious celebration at the Phulchowki Mai Temple which could be a unique experience for the visitors.
The fall months, September to early December are great for mountain vistas as well as landscape views. The days are clear, stable, and warm with cooler mornings and evenings. The hiking trail is at its best with few local and international companions. The entire trail is covered with amber hues making the hiking experience surreal.
The rainy season which also is summer in Nepal runs from June to August. Hiking during these months is possible and offers stunning views. But when it is raining, it is best to avoid the hike because the heavy rainfall makes the trail slick and slippery. The views are obstructed by the cloud as well.
Hiking to Phulchowki hill station in the winter allows hikers to enjoy the snowfall. Also, during the winter months, the views of the snow-capped mountains are the most attractive. But it is important to travel with a professional guide and proper gear as the trail could be slippery.