Champadevi hike

The Champadevi trail makes for an excellent day hike and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. You’ll need to get an early start to the day and board a bus (or book a taxi) from the Ratna Park Bus Stop to Dakshinkali. Be sure to ask the driver to let you off at the Khahare Bus Stop, which is just beyond the serene Taudaha Lake. You might choose to wear a face mask to avoid inhaling the dust that the bus will inevitably kick up.

Once off the bus, you’ll see a small sign indicating you’ve reached the Champadevi Hiking Trail. Head northwest from the bus stop to begin your hiking adventure.

The first kilometer has you trekking along asphalt roads through one of the least interesting sections of the trail, though you’ll be able to take in the scene of Kathmandu’s outskirts.

At the end of the black-topped road, you’ll come across a small Buddha shrine next to a huge tree that opens up to a sweeping view of the valley below. Take the opportunity to enjoy the shade and unencumbered lookout before readying yourself for another 656ft to arrive at an intersection just before Bosan, a sprawling hill settlement. The right-hand turn will lead you to Bosan Danda, a popular viewpoint overlooking Kathmandu Valley. Meanwhile, the left route will take you along the off-the-beaten-path to Champadevi.

You’ll follow the path for another 0.7mi west, passing through traditional Nepali villages at the top.

The next section is the most challenging of the hike, a 1.4mi stretch that climbs 1969ft to the top. Here you’ll follow the trail through dense forest for 2297ft until you reach a fork. From here, head northwest and take a right for the main trail. Taking a left will take you down to Hattiban Resort. The strenuous climb of 1969ft is a mixture of single tracks, steep trail, and graveled path. Walk at a steady pace and take breaks if necessary. Don’t forget to look down to see how far you’ve climbed. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the lush green hills blanketed with colorful flowers, and see if you can spot the local wildlife, including a variety of birds. After walking for 1.0mi in a northwest direction, you’ll finally make it to the Champadevi summit. Check out the small Hindu temple and prayer flags found on the hillside. Prayer flags are an important signifier for marking the topmost part of a hill.

Relax at the top and celebrate your hike with a picnic lunch. The point where the Champadevi Temple is located has somewhat blocked views. So, if you want to enjoy unhindered views of the mountains and the valley, walk an additional 0.9mi. Return carefully down from the trail the same way you came. Board the bus at the Khahare Bus Stop and head back to Kathmandu.