Overview of Champadevi Hike
Champadevi hill is one of the most famous hiking spots near Kathmandu Valley. The hike begins from Pharping (Bhanjyang), which is easily reachable and offers a peaceful hiking trail. The scenic beauty of the trail passing through lush green forest is undeniably the most exciting part of the hike. From Pharping, the Champadevi hiking trail leads to many culturally significant points.
Champadevi Hill is a sacred hilltop hike in Nepal. From amidst the lush forest and towards the hill top, you can observe the panoramic mountain views which seem to be floating amidst the clouds. The Champadevi Hiking is indeed one of the easiest yet the most rewarding hikes around the Kathmandu valley.
Champadevi Hike is a moderate hiking trail in Nepal. It is a family-friendly hike. Everyone can do this hike if they are first time hikers or experienced ones. Champadevi hike is also helpful for the trekkers who are planning to trek in Nepal. Doing short hikes before trek can build your stamina and help your body to adjust to walking long distances.
After about 3 to 3.5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach the summit of Champadevi, marked by fluttering prayer flags and the views of Kathmandu Valley, Pharping Monastery, and on clear days, even distant Himalayan peaks.
Pro Tip: Start your hike early in the morning for clear skies and golden light. And don't forget to bring a small offering. People believe wishes made at Champa Devi often come true.
About Champadevi
Champadevi hill, which is famed to be the third highest hill around Kathmandu valley sits at the highest elevation of 2278 meter. Located to the south of Kathmandu valley, Champadevi hill offers a spectacular view of the valley.
The hill is named after the resident goddess, Champadevi and also holds her shrine. Many Buddhist monasteries can also be found in the area. Champadevi Hill is a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists.
The Route of Champadevi Hike
From the resort, it takes about three hours to reach the top of the Champa Devi hill through a lush pine forest. For those willing to continue the hike might take the route to Bhasmasur hill. The trail can alternatively begin from the Pharping village as well.
You pass through the historical towns of Kirtipur and Chovar along the way. The route to this alternate path leads to the Champa Devi Hills through the pine forest. The route eventually ends to your respective destination.
The Scenery from Champadevi Hill
The Champadevi Hill has a lot to offer in terms of cultural diversity and natural affinity. While the hike itself is enticing and serene with lush green pine forest, the hilltop is the real delight for hikers. When the weather is clear, you can witness views of many Himalayan peaks like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Gaurishankar, etc. Champadevi Hill has a shrine of the goddess Champadevi, which is regarded to be a holy pilgrimage for Hindus. Not only is the hill sacred to Hindus, but Buddhists as well. The Champadevi hill has various Buddhist monasteries as well.