The Phulchowki Hike is a scenic day trek from Kathmandu to a hill station at 2782 metres, located in the southern part of the Valley. It is one of the best hiking spots near Kathmandu. Phulchowki is also known for its hills filled with various flowers.
The Phulchowki Hike starts in Godawari, 14 km from Kathmandu. The drive from Kathmandu to Godawari takes around 45-60 minutes.
The Phulchowki Hike takes around 4-5 hours to ascend and 2-3 hours to descend, for an overall 7-8-hour hike. The trail to Phulchowki begins with a paved road and then joins stone stairs through the forests. As the hike continues through the subtropical forests, enjoy the views of several wildflowers, butterflies, and birds.
As you reach the top of Phulchowki, you will find a small temple where you can offer a prayer. Next, on a clear day, you can enjoy the views of the landscapes and mountains.
The difficulty of the Phulchowki Hike is moderate. Although the trail is steady and has a long uphill ascent. Beginners can do the Phulchowki Hike without any difficulty. The Phulchowki Hike distance is around 14KM round trip.
Highlights of the Phulchowki Hike from Kathmandu
- One of the best day hikes near Kathmandu.
- Ideal for travellers who love to explore nature, birds, and forests.
- Panoramic views of the nearby hills, landscapes, and mountains.
- Best for experienced and beginner hikers
How hard is the Phulchowki Hike?
Phulchowki Hike is moderate in terms of difficulty. Beginners with good physical fitness and experienced hikers can do this hike. The only hard part of the Phulchowki hike is the long and steady climb through the stone stairs. There is a lower chance of getting altitude sickness on the Phulchowki hike.
Phulchowki Day Hike Cost for 2027/2028
Phulchowki Day Hike cost starts from USD 130 per person for a single hiker. Likewise, if there are 2-3 hikers, the cost ranges around USD 100 per person. The cost covers the trekking guide, two-way private transportation, Lunch (before and after the hike; it will be a Nepali traditional dish, one main course), and government taxes & service charges.
Packing List for the Phulchowki Hike
You should pack light for this Phulchowki Day Hike. Also, there are no shops or hotels along the trail, so make sure you pack lunch and snacks.
- Good Hiking Shoes with ankle support.
- Breathable T-shirt & Windstopper.
- Hiking Pants or Shorts (Depending on weather)
- Small First Aid Kit
- Lunch and Snacks with a water bottle
Who can do this Phulchowki Day Hike?
Phulchowki Day Hike is ideal for anyone who can walk for 7-8 hours through the forest. The average hikers who are fit can do this hike. Moreover, if you are a physically active family with kids, you can also try this hike. However, those who are unfit or have some knee issues, are allergic to the woods, etc., may not find this hike ideal.
Hiking Guide for Phulchowki Hike
You will hike with a professional and licensed Trekking guide. Hiring a guide for the day hikes around Kathmandu is mandatory for safety purposes. He will lead you from the start to the end of the hike. The Guide helps you by providing information regarding the hike, Kathmandu Valley, and the hiking trail. Having a guide is always helpful while hiking through the forest or an unknown trail.
Transportation for the Hike
Mountain Eco Trails will arrange a private Car or Jeep to the starting point of the hike. The transportation also depends on the size of the group. If there are more than 6 hikers, then we will arrange a Bus or small Van. You will drive to Godawari in a private vehicle, and after completion of the hike, the vehicle will drop you back at your hotel.
