Phulchowki which means ‘Hill of Flowers’ in Nepali is the highest hill (2782m) among the surrounding hills of Kathmandu valley which is located approx. 14 km in the south east of Kathmandu valley. It is the name of one of the famous Hindu goddess and many Hindu people make their pilgrimage tours to this site.

This is one of the most beautiful hiking in terms of vegetation and bird watching destination in Kathmandu valley. The walk is difficult but the reward is a wonderful view and good for nature observers.

Phulchowki hill is surrounded by the dense forest of different plants including Rhododendron of different colors, including pure white and dark red. Because of this beautiful and dense forest different species of birds and butterflies can be found. During your hike you can see different kinds of birds such as Rufous-gorgeted, Flycatcher, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Yellow-browed Tit, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Red-billed Leiothrix, Whiskered Yuhina, Besra, Bronzed and Racket-tailed Drongos, Greater Yellow nape, Grey-headed Woodpecker, Nepal Cutia, Ultramarine Flycatcher, and Black-winged Cuckoo shrike.

At the top of the hill there is a shrine of PhulchowkiMai which is surrounded by prayer flags and tridents. If you happen to hike on this route in the month of March / April you might have a chance to watch the month long annual religious festival held at the shrine to Phulchoki, and some other major festivals on the full moon days in the month of July and August every year.

Moreover you will get the eye-catching view from eastern part of Annapurna range to Gaurishanker in the east on a clear day. Further breathtaking view of Kathmandu valley is another glorious part of this visit.

It is also the only place in the vicinity of Kathmandu to experience snowfall in winter.