Height: 2,782m

Highlights: Sub-tropical forest, breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and views of Annapurna and Gaurishankar mountains.

Hike Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Phulchowki is the highest hill near Kathmandu and is situated to the south of the city. To get there you need to drive to Godawari (14 km south of Kathmandu), where you start the hike. You will be able to see sub-tropical thick forests filled with rhododendrons and oak trees as well as several species of orchids, butterflies, and birds. From the top you get a breathtaking view of the valley and on clear days you can see the eastern parts of the Annapurna range to Gaurishankar in the east. While you are there, why not check out the Botanical Gardens in Godawari.