Phulchowki Hill Excursion, the birdwatching tour
Phulchowki Hill, above the southern skyline above the Kathmandu Valley, at an elevation of 2,695 metres above sea level, is one of the four major hills surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. The other three significant hills around the valley are Shivapuri 2,732 metres, Nagarjuna 2,095 metres and Chandragiri 2,551 metres.
Phulchowki is rich in fauna and floras and is one of the most preferred destinations for birders of Kathmandu and many bird-loving to Nepal. The dense area has a middle hill forest of 1,000 to 1,800 metres above sea level. It consists of the subtropical broadleaf forests of evergreen species in the lower parts and upper subtropical forest with Chir pine, wild Himalayan cherry, oak and laurel families mixed with rhododendron species. The Nepalese army guards the hill’s summit though one can visit the tower and the temple of goddess Phulchowki. Phulchowki is an evergreen destination for hikers: summer is cool with lush nature and birds, spring is full of rhododendron and orchids from mid-February to March and full of birds, and the winter is the lovely destination for youngsters of Kathmandu Valley to play the fresh snow. Autumn is one of the best months to hike here to enjoy the magnificent sceneries of the Himalayas. Phulchowki has beautiful views of Kathmandu Valley and panoramic mountain scenery of Manaslu, Annapurna, Langtang, Ganesh, Dorje Lhakpa, Phurbi Gyachu and impressive views of uncountable rolling hills in all directions.
