The Champadevi Day Hike begins about 15 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu city. It is easily accessible from the capital, making it an easy day trip for locals and tourists. We will start the tour after the one-hour drive to Pharping Village. This hike is suitable for people interested in a hike that is good for beginners, as well as more advanced levels of ability. Departing the village and monastery of Pharping, the trail makes its way through a lush pine forest. Most of the walk is along a scenic ridge with spectacular views of the Kathmandu Valley and Himalayan Range from Manaslu to Gaurishankar.
The summit of Champadevi has an elevation of approximately 2,285 meters (7,495 feet) above sea level. This trek is not as high as some of the more well-known treks, but it is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in the Hindu and Buddhist regions, highlighting some beautiful cultural sites. The hike to the summit takes 3 to 4 hours. The top of the hill is a sacred site where many locals perform their rituals on auspicious days. Departing from this high point the summit trail descends steeply down to the village. The trail will take us through dense forest which is rich with birds and other wildlife.
Raptors are beautiful to observe and can often be seen soaring above the trail, as well as excellent views of many snowcapped mountains to the north as we visit serene rural farm villages along the way. On clear days, the Himalayan Mountain Range provides an incredible backdrop, including peaks like Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Jugal, and Dorge Lakpa. On exceptionally clear days hikers may even see Mount Everest!! The area around Champadevi is known for its diverse birdlife, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Overall, Champadevi is a very fine destination for those looking to experience a rewarding hike with stunning views without having to venture too far from Kathmandu. After completing the hike and enjoying the stunning views from the top, we will return to the starting point and take our transport back to Kathmandu where our day of adventure concludes.