Phulchowki is the highest hill around Kathmandu Valley, standing at over 2,700 meters, as indicated at the Phulchoki Mai Temple at the top. But according to Wikipedia, it reaches an altitude of 2,762 meters.
Well, this article isn’t about its elevation though. I’m here to appreciate its beauty and to highlight a few issues I encountered while visiting Phulchowki Hill myself.
Today, we’ll explore the details of Phulchowki ride and hike, along with other attractions in the area. Ready? Let’s get started!
Key Facts About Phulchowki Hills
| Location | Godawari, Lalitpur, Bagmati Province |
| Altitude | 2,762 meters |
| Distance (from Satdobato) | 21 km approx. |
| Mode of transportation | Private vehicle / Hiking |
| Ride Duration | 1 – 2 hours |
| Hike Duration | 5 – 6 hours (from Godawari) |
| Best time to visit | September – May (when the skies are clear or when there’s a snowfall) |
How to Reach Phulchowki Hills?
To reach Phulchowki Dada, you have two options:
- Hike from Godawari
- Take an off-road ride all the way up the hill
Personally, I opted for a short, exciting ride, and the view of the mountains from the top was absolutely breathtaking.
If you’re also looking for a quick escape close to Kathmandu, Phulchowki is definitely a ride you shouldn’t miss.
That said, I’m not discouraging hiking. Many people choose this option, and it’s a great way to stay fit. However, keep in mind that hiking takes more time. Expect to spend 5-6 hours ascending and descending.
I can assure you that this short hiking trip would be perfect for school or college students. Educational institutions planning excursions can definitely take inspiration from this.
To get to Phulchowki,
- First, make your way to the Godawari Botanical Garden entrance.
- Once you reach the parking area, head right.
- The path ahead is now straightforward with minimal confusion.
- Kilometer markers along the way will guide you, making the ride and hike both convenient.
Road Conditions to Phulchowki Dada
Back to the ride: While the Satdobato-Godawari road is fully paved and provides a smooth experience, the section leading up to Phulchowki Dada is kind of rough.
At first, the road offers a scenic section that gives you the impression of having a wonderful riding experience. But once the off-road section begins, it doesn’t let up.
Although all types of vehicles can reach the Phulchowki parking spot, the road conditions are off-road, which might be challenging for beginners.
However, for experienced riders, it’s just a typical off-road ride with manageable difficulties.
Once you reach the parking area, a quick 2-minute climb up the stairs will take you to the temple area!
Why Visit Phulchowki Hills?
Phulchowki Hills has been a popular destination for a long time. In fact, most residents of Kathmandu have already visited, and if you haven’t yet, I’m sure you’ll want to at least visit once. And yes, YOU MUST!
Not only is it the highest hill station in the valley, but it also holds religious significance for Hindus.
At the top of the hill is the Phulchowki Mai temple, complete with a trident and power drum dedicated to Mahadev. We went there to learn more but couldn’t find the right person to speak with.
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Besides the temple, Phulchowki is a popular picnic spot for many hikers. Imagine enjoying a stunning panoramic view of the mountains—sounds incredible, right?
Well, it is! The view is absolutely breathtaking. Consider traveling during the autumn or winter seasons when the skies are clearer.
We’re not talking about just one or two mountain ranges here. Almost the entire Himalayas can be seen, just like during our last visit to Sailung Hills.
You’ll catch sight of peaks like Pikey Peak II, Mera Peak, Numberchuli, Everest, Gauri Shankar, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Himal Chuli, Naike Peak, Ganesh VII, Lirung II, Langtang Luring, and many more!
Also, Phulchowki is a great destination when there’s snowfall. We were unlucky to witness this despite being there in Winter.
Many plan the trip as soon as they hear news about snowfall (so, keep your eyes on RONB posts! :p)
In summary, Phulchowki Hills is a must-visit for its panoramic mountain views, religious significance, picnic opportunities, snowfall experience, and the accomplishment of reaching the highest hill in Kathmandu Valley.
What I Didn’t Like About Phulchowki Hills
While I’ve praised Phulchowki, there are a few things that were disappointing at such a beautiful and religious site in Kathmandu.
First, the litter around the area was truly disappointing. Take a look at the picture below and let me know your thoughts on this.
Second, the picnic area itself wasn’t ideal. While it’s a nice spot to relax and enjoy a picnic, I didn’t feel comfortable being so close to the temple.
I did see a few responsible visitors who set up their picnics a little further downhill, away from the temple. Perhaps you might want to do the same?
There’s even a small tea house just before the staircase, which can be another great spot for a snack.
Third, the public washroom left much to be desired. The management (Naudhara Samudayik Ban Upabhokta Samuha) really needs to address this.
I went to use the facilities, and, well, it was just like any other public toilet in Nepal. While we as Nepalese may overlook this, imagine how a foreigner might feel about the state of our public restrooms. It’s one of the reasons why our country’s reputation can suffer.
Lastly, the road condition, which is a common complaint in Nepal, remains an issue. If the road can’t be paved, at least removing stones from the uphill sections would make it a bit more manageable.
Expected Budget
A trip to Phulchowki is not only short but also incredibly budget-friendly.
We only spent Rs. 35 for a bottle of mineral water and Rs. 10 each for motorcycle entry fees (to the Naudhara Samudayik Ban Upabhokta Samuha). That’s it!
Since we finished the trip within four hours, we didn’t opt for snacks in the area. However, you could certainly grab a local bite at the only hotel available at the top, and it shouldn’t cost you much.
If you’re riding a motorcycle, your petrol cost should be no more than Rs. 100.
All in all, the Phulchowki hike or ride can easily be completed within a budget of Rs. 500 for a comfortable experience.
Final Words
Phulchowki Hills has always been on the bucket list for those around Kathmandu Valley, but the place seems to be losing popularity these days.
One of the main reasons is that the views from the top are obstructed by the growing trees.
While cutting down the trees isn’t an option, installing a view tower in the area could provide an excellent vantage point. That’s what we were thinking about when we were up there.
And oh I almost forgot! Marble Dada is also pretty close from here. So, you could complete two trips in the same day!
If you have any further questions about Phulchowki Hills, feel free to ask in the comments below. And if you’d like to share your own stories with us, don’t forget to send us an email at info@travelnepaltoday.com.
Now it’s time to plan your short trip with friends and family. Add Phulchowki to your list of must-see destinations near Kathmandu, and if you enjoyed reading this article, share it with your loved ones.
Happy travels to Lalitpur!
Another short destination near Kathmandu: Dhaireni Dada aka Heaven Dada
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