Nepal · Hiking

1-Day Phulchoki Hiking Tour from Kathmandu with Summit Shrine

1 Day Round trip from Godawari Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Hike to Phulchoki Hill at 2,782m, the highest viewpoint around Kathmandu Valley
02 Scenic forest trail through rich subtropical vegetation and rhododendron forests
03 Excellent opportunity for birdwatching and nature photography
04 Panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley from the summit
05 Stunning Himalayan vistas including Annapurna and Gaurishankar on clear days
06 Visit the sacred Phulchoki Mai Shrine and experience local religious culture
07 Peaceful escape into nature just a short drive from Kathmandu
08 Ideal one-day hike for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts

The Phulchoki Day Hike is one of the most rewarding short hikes around the Kathmandu Valley, combining nature, biodiversity, and panoramic mountain views. Rising to 2,782 meters, Phulchoki is the highest hill surrounding Kathmandu and sits above the lush Godawari Botanical Garden. The trail leads through dense subtropical forests rich in birdlife and rare plant species, with sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks such as Annapurna and Gaurishankar. At the summit, visit the sacred Phulchoki Mai Shrine and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere before returning to Kathmandu.

At the summit, visit the sacred Phulchoki Mai Shrine and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere before returning to Kathmandu.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

City Kathmandu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Phulchoki Hill Hike via Godawari

Morning - Drive to Godawari (40 minutes)
Pick up from your hotel in Kathmandu and drive to Godawari, located at the base of Phulchoki Hill and home to the famous botanical garden.

Hike from Godawari to Phulchoki Hill (3-4 hours)
Begin the hike through dense subtropical forests rich in birdlife and diverse vegetation. As the trail ascends, enjoy beautiful views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks.

Explore Phulchoki Summit (2,782m)
Reach the summit of Phulchoki Hill, the highest point around Kathmandu Valley. Visit the Phulchoki Mai Shrine, relax, take photos, and enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Gaurishankar ranges on clear days.

Lunch Break at the Top
Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Hike Back to Godawari (2 hours)
Descend along the same trail through scenic forest paths back to Godawari.

Afternoon - Drive Back to Kathmandu (40 minutes)
Transfer back to Kathmandu and drop off at your hotel, concluding the day hike.

The route