PAWANA SHRESTHA
Are you looking for a hiking trail to plunge into nature and want a getaway from the monotonous bustling city life? Then, Champadevi hill is the perfect destination for a day hike where you can have a lifetime experience in a short while. The walk is a soul pleasing one with everything that you'd expect from hiking, regardless of it being an easy trail. It is astonishing how the simple destination serves so much just inside the capital city of Kathamndu.
Situated in the south-west of Kathmandu, the Champadevi hill is the third highest hill surrounding the valley with a height of 2285m. The place gets its name from the Hindu temple of Champadevi that lies atop. Besides that, the path to the hilltop also has several other Hindu shrines and Buddhist stupas, which attracts many pilgrims too.
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There are many routes to the top of the hill, among which the most traveled one is the one that starts from Bhanjhyang, which is 45 mins car ride from Thamel. Or, you can take a local bus from Old Bus Park. The way leads to Hattiban resort from where it is about 3-4hours of hiking to the top of the hill. The path is covered with lush pine forest, surrounded by a natural aura. Another could be the path from Pharphing village as well, where you pass through the historic towns of Kirtipur and Chobhar.
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On the way, you can see the highest hill in the valley – Chandragiri on your right and Phulchoki hill on your left. The Champadevi hike is a pure nature walk to the top from where one can have a bird's eye view of the entire valley. Even more, the peak gives a spectacular panoramic view of all three districts – Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. One can also view the beautiful Kirtipur and Pharping village district. Moreover, it is also a viewpoint to the Khokana, Pharping, and Bagmati river that carries historical importance in Nepal. It feels overwhelming, looking at the breathtaking landscape. The lush green trees that you can see over provide a sense of connection with nature. Furthermore, standing at such height, you can also see the striking scenes of the mountain ranges such as Annapurna, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and even the highest peak Mount Everest. The picturesque sight from the hilltop is a lifetime experience to cherish.
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The Champadevi hill is not only worth hiking just for the natural views and the magnificent scenery from the hilltop, but one can also have an opportunity to see and learn the culture and tradition of the local people. It is the best place to experience the ecstasy of village life.
All in all, the Champadevi hike is a package of all the diversity one can find in a hiking trail. As a perfect destination within a small area that can be reached in a short time, enjoy your break from the daily hustle through the hiking.
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