Phulchowki Hill, at a height of 2,782 m, is one of the best spots for hiking in the Kathmandu area, especially if you are anywhere around Lalitpur’s Patan. The distance from the city is not too far from Phulchowki. The hill is possibly the most scenic route you will find in Kathmandu Valley. You can see the beauty of Annapurna-Manaslu and Ganesh Himal as well as the Langtang and Jugal Himal from Phulchowki. While it seems impossible to witness the beauty of Mount Everest from Kathmandu, you can, to an extent, view the peak from the hill itself. Gauri Shankar Himal can also be seen from Phulchowki's height. Similarly, you can get a perfect view of the entire city of Kathmandu during your Phulchowki hike.
The Phulchowki day hike is all about going through nature to finally stop at a high point. There isn’t a lack of any natural beauty like tall rhododendron-oaks-pines-magnolia and fir trees throughout your hike. Though not reachable, there are also exotic birds and animals like leopards, wild cats, deer, and monkeys. If you are lucky enough, or in a few cases unlucky, there is a mild chance of seeing these animals and wild birds during your day hike. While many people tend to go to Phulchowki as tourists, there are many locals from both Kathmandu and Lalitpur, as well as some from other parts of Nepal, who are looking to find a day off from the hustling and bustling city life. Phulchowki day hike is conveniently accessible for almost anyone who is in and out of Kathmandu Valley, and the refreshing experience is worth spending a day.
