Champadevi hiking is a popular day activity in Kathmandu. It is the third-highest hill in the southwest of Kathmandu. Champadevi hill stands 2,285 meters (7,495 ft) above sea level.
Though it is not that high, you will still get to witness a beautiful aerial view of Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayan mountains from the top.
On a clear day, you can see mountains like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Gaurishankar, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lhakpa, etc.
And if the sky is exceptionally clear, you may see a glimpse of Mount Everest from Champadevi's top as well. Hiking here offers a peaceful and quick adventurous gateway to nature.
You will leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and enjoy a serene setting and fresh air. The trail is well-maintained, and the short hiking route welcomes all age groups.
You can reach the starting point of the Champadevi hiking route in just a 30-minute (16 km) drive from the city. There are two starting points of Champadevi hiking- Khare and Bhanjyang.
Bhanjyang is popular and is mostly used by hikers. During the Champadevi hike, you will see the outskirts of Kathmandu. Lush hills, rural farm villages, and snow-covered mountains will be your views.
From the starting point of the trail, it will take you three to four hours to reach the top of Champadevi Hill. The trail goes through lush forested hills where you can see various plants.
The hiking route is suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers. If you have a free day in Kathmandu and want to spend time in nature, 1 day Champadevi hike is a great option to consider.
Highlights
- A fantastic short getaway in nature from Kathmandu
- Ideal for travelers looking to do day hiking around Kathmandu
- The trail is adventurous- you will ascend and descend through forested hills
- Enjoy peace, fresh air, and soothing earth aroma during the hike
- Witness stunning mountain views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Gaurishankar, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lhakpa, etc
- On an exceptionally clear day, you may also see a glimpse of Mt. Everest
- Explore the Champadevi Temple at the top of the hill
- A perfect retear for all age groups
- Affordable day activity
- Pick up and drop off service included
What is Champadevi?
Champadevi is a Hindu goddess. She is one of the forms of Goddess Durga or Parvati. The hill is named after her. It is believed that she protects the surrounding area and the locals.
On the top of the hill, there is a Champadevi temple where locals visit to pray. Likewise, Champadevi Hill also has religious importance for Buddhists.
You can see many chortens, stupas, and prayer flags on the top of the hill. Monks visit the hill to meditate.
Champadevi hiking route - via Bhanjyang
You will begin the Champadevi hike from Bhanjyang. We will pick you up from your hotel or home. We can also set a meeting point as per your convenience.
From Kathmandu, you can reach Bhanjyang in a short, comfortable drive. Following our hiking guide, you will walk uphill. As you ascend, the trail enters a dense forested hill.
Upon reaching a certain height, you will see Bagmati River, Bungmati, Khokana, and Pharping. The trail is well established, but uphill hiking will tire you.
So, we recommend taking small breaks on the way. Hike slowly and maintain your pace. Upon reaching the top of the Champadevi hill, you will have some time to rest and enjoy the views.
After some time, you will descend to Puspalal Park and drive back to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you off at your hotel and bid you goodbye.
Upon reaching the top, spend some time resting and enjoying the views. Later, descend to Puspalal Park and drive back to Kathmandu.
Alternative routes to Champadevi Hill
Champadevi Hike via Chandragiri:
The Champadevi Hill route via Chandragiri starts with a cable car ride up. You will reach the top of Chandragiri Hill in a cable car. You will start hiking to Bhasmasur Hill (2,496 m) from here.
Further, you will hike for one more hour to reach Champadevi Hill. Enjoy the views, descend for a couple of hours to Hattiban Resort, and drive back to Kathmandu.
Note that Champadevi Hike via Chandragiri is a long hike. It includes 4 to 5 hours of hiking.
Champadevi Hike via Pharping:
Another possible route to hike to Champadevi Hill is via Pharping. You will drive to Pharping or Hattiban Resort early in the morning. The hike starts from here.
Following a pine forest, you will ascend to the Champadevi Hill. While returning, you will follow the same route back. We highly recommend visiting the beautiful Taudaha Lake while returning.
Is 1 day Champadevi hike suitable for you?
The 1 days Champadevi hike is suitable for all age groups. You can do this hike solo or with your friends. It is an excellent hiking option for family and a student retreat.
Likewise, office colleagues looking to bond over an activity can also do the Champadevi hike. Tourists looking to spend time in nature while not traveling far from Kathmandu will love the Champadevi hike.
We provide pick-up and drop-off service, so you do not have to worry about transportation. Similarly, one of our friendly guides will accompany you during the Champadevi hike, ensuring your safety.
The Champadevi hike is also affordable. We have the Champadevi hiking cost in the market. Join us for this day hike and get the best price.
Champadevi hiking difficulty and altitude sickness
The Champadevi hike is not difficult if you are physically active. Previous hiking experience is not required. If you are hiking for the first time, you may find the hike very exhausting, and it's common.
The pro tip is to ascend slowly and take frequent breaks. The trail is uneven and follows forested hills. Likewise, the altitude gain is under 2,500 meters on this hike, so there is no risk of altitude sickness.
Due to uphill climbing, you may get out of breath, so we recommend hiking slowly. Keep yourself hydrated and take frequent long breaths.
The best time to do the Champadevi hike
You can go on Champadevi hiking throughout the year. Every season will present its charm.
- Spring (March to May): Spring has stable weather and dry trails. It is the best time to see rhododendron blossoms and many other flowers. The scenery is exceptionally gorgeous because of all the flower blossoms.
- Summer/monsoon (June to August): If you like the summer climate, hiking in these months is great. The hill is quite lush. Once the monsoon begins, the climate gets humid, and frequent rainfall makes the trail slippery and muddy. Ideal for hikers who love nature during rain.
- Autumn (late September to November): Another great time of the year to hike to Champadevi. Fantastic weather and climate. The views are incredible. The hiking route may be crowded on weekends.
- Winter (December to February): Apart from a cold climate, there is nothing to worry about during Champadevi hiking in winter. Wear suitable clothes, and you will be fine.
Transportation
We use a private four-wheeler during the Champadevi hike. From Thamel, it takes around 45 minutes to reach the trail's starting point. Our team will pick you up from your hotel.
Similarly, after the trek ends, our team will drop you off at the hotel. We make sure our vehicles are clean and comfortable. One of our skilled drivers will be there to drive you.
*If your budget allows, you can upgrade to a premium four-wheeler.
Guide
We provide a professional, experienced guide for the Champadevi hike. Our guides are well-known for their knowledge of the Champadevi hiking routes and area. They will add immense value to this short adventure.
You will learn about the locals, the Champadevi temple, and surrounding gems. With our guide, you will hike safely and enjoy the journey to the fullest.
Personal expenses
Our Champadevi hiking cost does not include tips, accommodation, food, drinks, or souvenirs. We only provide transportation and a local guide. We recommend hikers carry Nrs 1500 to Nrs 3000 to buy food, water, and souvenirs.
Kindly carry Nepali cash during the hike. The local vendors do not accept foreign currency or payment through cards. We also recommend that hikers tip their guide and driver if they are happy with their service.
Champadevi hike packing
You will need the following things for the Champadevi hike:
- Wear comfortable, flexible clothes
- Hiking shoes and socks (do not wear brand new hiking shoes because they can give you blisters and make the hike painful)
- Wear a windcheater or needed outer layer according to the weather
- Daypack to carry essentials
- Sunglasses
- SPF
- Lip balm
- Tissue paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Mobile and camera
- Power bank (optional)
- Permit
- Cahs
- ID card
