As a lover of nature and hiking, I was ecstatic when I heard about the Phulchowki Day Hiking Experience. It is one of the most beautiful scenic country walks around the Kathmandu Valley rim, and I couldn't wait to explore it. I had heard that the hike would take me to the southeastern part of the valley, within the Lalitpur district, which is often known as the Patan areas.
On the day of the hike, I woke up early and made my way to Godawari, the starting point of the trek. It was a 50-minute drive from the center of the city, but it was worth it. The Botanical Garden at Godawari was a sight to behold with its lush greenery and colorful flowers. As we started our slow uphill climb, I could feel my excitement building up.
The trek took around four hours to complete, but the time seemed to fly by. The forested surroundings of tall rhododendron, oaks, pines, magnolias, and fir trees were so serene and peaceful that it was hard to believe that we were still in Kathmandu. As we climbed higher, the views became more breathtaking. I could see an array of mountain panoramas that extended from Annapurna-Manaslu and Ganesh Himal, including the Langtang and Jugal Himals in the north. The snowcapped view of Gaurishankar and the Everest region on the east horizon was simply awe-inspiring.
The Phulchowki hilltop, which is above 2,782 m, was the highlight of the trek. The scenic landscapes of rolling green hills and snow-capped peaks were the major attractions. I felt a sense of tranquility as I took in the stunning views of Kathmandu Valley from above. The hilltop is not only famous among foreigners but also among the local city folk who come to escape the hectic city life for fresh, clean air within the pristine environment.
The trek was not only about the beautiful views and scenery; it was also an opportunity to explore the diverse fauna of Nepal. The tropical forest was full of different species of flowers, plants, and trees. I was amazed to see so many different types of birds, including Kalij, storks, woodpeckers, spiny babblers, drongos, cuckoos, and many more. It was a bird watcher's paradise!
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As we continued our trek, we reached the Phulchwoki Danda, which is the highest point situated in the south of Kathmandu valley. It is famous for the best hiking trails that offer a botanical garden and bird-watching experience in Nepal. The shrine of Phulchowki Bhagwati, decorated with colorful prayer flags, was a sight to behold. I felt a sense of spirituality as I stood there, surrounded by the beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere.
After a delicious lunch, we started our slow descent downhill for two hours, which led us back to Godawari Botanical Garden. As we made our way back, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experience. The views of Kathmandu Valley and the mountain range were etched in my memory forever.
The Phulchowki Day Hiking Tour was an unforgettable experience, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves nature, hiking, and adventure. It is a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the beautiful scenery of Nepal. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, but the trip can be done throughout the year.
As a travel enthusiast, I have been on many trips over the years, but the Phulchowki Day Hiking Experience will always hold a special place in my heart.
photo credit: Sujitabh Chaudhary, Prasesh Shiwakoti
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