Best Months to do Champadevi Day Hiking:-
Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Mar, Apr, and May present a chance for the Champadevi Day Hiking enthusiast to relish in each season's remarkable climate and scenery.
However, each month provides a different experience and accompanying conditions, making some months more suited to Hiking than others. Each month, from the temperatures to the reduced crowds and protection from severe conditions, provides a unique and enjoyable hiking experience.
Sep is an excellent option in terms of both temperature and crowds. With temperatures ranging from a pleasant 18-26°C and most hikers already completing their ascent by early September, fewer people will typically be around. This can aid those seeking the full, undisturbed hiking experience. In some cases, hikes can even result in being able to examine rare, high-altitude wild floral species of the nearby regions.
Oct is commonly considered to be the perfect month for Champadevi day Hiking. With temperatures ranging from a pleasant 15-28°C, the sun's warmth does not overwhelm, allowing for a comfortable climb. Additionally, with many students and holidaymakers finishing their trek by this point, there is a much more manageable crowd of more severe and committed hikers.
Nov is a month worth considering for those seeking a cooler climb, with temperatures ranging from 10-26°C. With the vast majority of schools on vacation, there can be an influx of student hikers, but overall numbers are still dramatically lower than peak season in the summer. This also brings with it an increased chance of seeing rare and endangered wildlife that, during other months, might be trying their best to avoid the larger and noisier tourist population.
Dec is an attractive month for experienced or daring hikers, as it can be quite a bit chilly, with temperatures ranging around 8-12°C, but those willing to brave the cold can enjoy a peaceful, less crowded trek. However, this should only be attempted by those with enough knowledge and experience to handle the lower temperatures, the occasional snowfall, and the need for more layers and heavier, stormproof gear.
Mar is a fantastic time to hike as temperatures rise, ranging from a mild 16-20°C, combined with a moderate number of hikers, typically those from Greater Nepal. The longer days have returned, and the sun is more reliable, allowing for a longer hike. Novice hikers will be delighted, with snow still blanketing the toughest trails and mountain passes, allowing for an easier and more enjoyable hiking experience.
Apr signals the start of summer and is a popular month for experienced hikers or those wanting a more crowded atmosphere. A pleasant hiking ambiance is established with temperatures between 22-26°C, a delightful blend of warmth and coolness. The trails may become jam-packed due to the rising approval of group tours and the influx of hikers, so the more daring or better-prepared should make sure to commence at the break of dawn to stay ahead of the crowd.
The season's beauty bursts in May, offering splendid possibilities for exhilarating hikes and majestic vistas. The temperature fluctuates between balmy 22°C and warm 25°C, creating a suitable playground for many species, from faunal to floral. With the peak season of tourism end, by this point, it can be easier to find more secluded spots and hidden gems of the region.
Thus, the best months for Champadevi Day hiking can vary from person to person depending on what type of hiker they are and what they are seeking from experience. Those looking for a more comfortable and milder hike should typically look to Sep, Oct, or Nov, while those seeking a cooler or more challenging climb should look to Dec or Mar. Those looking for a larger or more vibrant crowd should look to Apr or May. All months provide an enjoyable and unique experience with breathtaking views, allowing for a truly rewarding hike.
Champadevi Day Hiking Route:-
Meandering across the Kathmandu Valley is an experience that's hard to forget - and one of the most charming ways to do it is by hiking to Champadevi. It's the perfect route to appreciate the area's beauty and get an authentic feel of the culture.
The route consists of driving to Pharping 1569m / 5148 feet, a small town an hour away from the city, followed by an hour-long hike to Champadevi, then a two-hour hike down to Hattiban before finally driving back to Kathmandu.
An absolute must-see for all those in the vicinity, the pathway is an electrifying one that can easily be achieved within 24 hours. The Champadevi Trail offers a spectacular day hike for the adventurous and nature-loving. Start your journey early with a comfortable drive from Pharping to Dakshinkali; if you're not a dust fan, consider wearing a face mask. A small sign will greet you at the bus stop, marking the beginning of the Champadevi Hiking Trail. Point yourself northwest and prepare for an awe-inspiring day. The drive from Kathmandu to Pharping is enjoyable, taking about an hour and allowing you to glimpse the rural Nepali countryside.
Upon heading towards Pharping, you will enter a tranquil mountain valley at the foot of the majestic Himalayas.
It is here that the hike to Champadevi begins. The hike is around three to four hours, mainly uphill, often challenging. The path has a few rocky parts and can be pretty steep in parts. Though the trek may seem challenging, the trail is indicated, and the sights are majestic, making the excursion well worth the labor.
As you ascend, breathtaking sights of snow-clad hills and vibrant rhododendron and oak forests will snow into view.
Finally reaching the top of Champadevi, you will find yourself standing in front of the temple complex. Here you will find several sacred shrines dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Champadevi. The temple is perfect for taking a few respite moments and enjoying the spectacular views of the Himalayas. After enjoying the temple, you will descend to Hattiban, a two-hour hike mainly downhill. Even though this portion is more strenuous, the views of the surrounding mountains and villages are too good to miss.
Once you reach Hattiban, 1,324 meters, you can take a jeep to drive you down a rough road back to Kathmandu. The jeep ride is often thrilling due to some sharp turns, but it makes it much easier. Alternatively, you can take the same route back to Pharping from where you started and return to the city by car. Regardless of your approach, this special day will be a great memory-maker, captured through many images you'll cherish forever.
An alternative route for Champadevi Day Hiking:-
For those who are new to hiking or have children in tow, there are alternative routes available that offer a gentler incline and an easier terrain. The easiest route to Champadevi is also the longest. It starts at the highway in town and heads north towards Hattiban Resort. The wide open, navigable path unfurls like a ribbon, ever leading onwards to the resort. A small stone road greets you along the way, inviting exploration. The forest along the way offers lovely shade, making it a comfortable hike even on a sunny day. Hattiban Resort is an excellent place to take a tea break and enjoy the views before continuing on the trail.
After the break, the main trail for Champadevi begins. It's a lot of steps, and you will go up and down several hills, but the path is either stone or dirt without many uneven surfaces. This makes navigating easier for beginners and kids without getting tripped up or exhausted.
The advantage of taking the easiest route to Champadevi is its gentle incline, making it less strenuous than some other trails. On longer treks, the steady climb lets your muscles ease into the challenge rather than go in full throttle immediately. It's like taking the scenic route but with a more forgiving ascent. Moreover, with its expansive pathways and lush greenery, there are ample chances to pause and relish the stunning landscape, rendering the journey a serene and delightful escapade.
However, remember that even the easiest route to Champadevi requires physical effort. It's still a hike, and trekkers should have the correct gear - the perfect shoes, enough water, and fuel-filled snacks - to guarantee a hassle-free hike. Take breaks as needed and listen to your body to avoid overexertion.
Alternative Route Via Chandragiri Route
For an adrenaline rush, ditch the conventional and opt for the thrilling Chandragiri Temple route to Champa Devi. Begin your journey in Thankot or Chandragiri Temple and up the hill. Or, take the easy route and grab a cable car to the temple, then start the trekking. Once you reach Chandragiri, take a moment to admire the temple before beginning the hike to Bhasmasur Hill. Hiking from the Chandragiri Temple to Bhasmasur Hill takes an approximate 2-3 hour time span, contingent on your level of physical fitness. As you make your way, end your journey at Hattiban/Bosan Danda.
For the adventurous, the 2496 meters tall Bhasmasur Hill offers a magnificent view of the Kathmandu Valley and its surrounding mountains. After recharging your energy, hike up to Champa Devi Temple, where you can pay your respects or take a break in its serene surroundings. It's then to the Hattiban Resort, which requires a mix of uphill and downhill slopes for 1-2 hours. At the Resort, your journey will come to an end.
Unless you have a private vehicle rented, you must trek an additional 20 minutes hike to reach the bus station.
Alternative Route Via Bosan Danda
While the Hattiban Resort route is arguably the most popular route among hikers, another route of great interest is the Champa Devi hiking via Bosan Danda. This route follows an alternate trail that starts at Hattiban and leads up to the temple of Champa Devi on top of the hill. Setting off on the hike, the pine forest greets you with its calming embrace, allowing you to become one with nature like never before.
This trail takes you through a carefully prepared space protected by the lush vegetation and the natural beauty of the green leaves and shrubs. As you walk further, you can admire the majestic views of the grand hills surrounding the valley. Eventually, you come across a number of streams, waterfalls, and ponds that offer delightful and refreshing sights.
After a tiring trek, you finally arrived at the temple of Champa Devi - an ode to the goddess. You could feel a sense of vastness as if paying homage to something greater than yourself. You bowed your head in reverence, knowing you'd always carry this moment of peace.
Once done, you can complete the hike by taking the Hattiban hiking route back down the hills. This downhill route is well-ridden by experienced hikers and is known for its scenic views of the valley and surrounding hills.
Cost to do Champadevi Day Hiking
The cost of Champadevi Day Hiking can vary based on the explorer's needs and the group's size. A standard package provides a guide, transportation, and entrance fee for an individual traveler, US $90 per person. Group prices are also available, and 2-3 members pay only US $ 75 per person. Other options, like adventure packages and customized trips, are also available at different costs.
A standard Champadevi Day Hiking trip costs US $90 per person, including the charge for the guide, transportation, and entrance fee. The group price for 2-3 members is US $75 per person for the same package. The group price for 4-12 members is US $60 per person for the same package.
The hike includes:
- A full-day hike to an elevation of 2278 m m and back along a path full of pine and rhododendron forests.
- Exquisite views of the mountains.
- Scenic settlements.
The standard package does not include costs for food and drinks for the duration of the trek. Tourists like to try the local cuisine when visiting places, so they will have to pay extra. Refreshments like juice and water swings are also excluded from the package and must be borne by the traveler. The cost of the trek likewise varies depending on the size of the group and the number of people going on the trek.
Apart from the standard package, extra adventure packages can be added to the trip at an additional cost. This can include zip-lining, paragliding, rafting, or rock climbing. These activities are to be paid separately, depending on the type of adventure chosen. The cost of a trip to Champadevi dramatically depends upon the traveler's needs and expectations. Customized trips can be made that can include some of the optional activities listed above. Depending on the traveler's wishes and availability, the additional cost for these activities will be higher than the standard package.
Tour groups usually get discounts on the prices of the packages and also make the process of booking a lot easier. This saves many trekkers time and energy as we handle the booking process. If a group of travelers wants to opt for the standard 4-12 pax package for the Champadevi Day Hiking, the cost goes down to US $ 60 per person. This means large numbers of tourists can save a lot of money by booking a package together.
The Champadevi Day Hiking can be done as a day trip or extended for a few days. This day's hiking expenses may vary with different packages and the total no of travelers. Prices typically range from $60-$90 per person. The price for an extended stay with multiple activities can again rely on the traveler's needs and wishes. The cost of Champadevi Day Hiking can also depend upon the season and time of year.
During peak season, certain tourist attractions may come with a higher price tag, while during off-peak times, they may offer a more affordable experience. It is up to the traveler to investigate and decide what time of the year to visit or hike Champadevi.
For a leisurely visit to Champadevi, the traveler might want to consider a package tour, which can be much cheaper than the individual rates. The traveler might also want to invest in a customized tour, which can include multiple activities, refreshments, and local cuisines at an additional cost.
Solo VS Group Tour to Chamopadevi day Hiking
When it comes to taking a day hike at Champa Devi, there is a dilemma faced by many outdoor adventurers: Should I join a tour group or go solo? Let's analyse the distinction between the two choices for a well-informed conclusion.
Conversely, those who join a group can reap numerous benefits. Firstly and most obviously, it is almost always cheaper regarding accommodation, transport, food, and gear. In group trekking, travelers will split the cost of the items between themselves. Moreover, they might also be offered discounts from vendors.
Traveling and hiking in a team ensures that at least one other person always accompanies you, and everyone is safer by working collectively. Lastly, going in a group provides opportunities to bond with your companions and share the experience meaningfully.
For budget-savvy travelers, a group tour of Champa Devi is the best option. Even if each person can cover the cost of their gear, food, and accommodation, the overall expenditure is significantly lower than a solo trip. Plus, the companionship and support provided by being part of a group are invaluable.
Next, let's look at their differences regarding freedom and flexibility. Solo trekking is suitable for those trekkers who are fond of their own company and the freedom that comes with it. Nothing stops them from exploring remote trails, pausing for a break for as long as they please, and taking whichever route suits them. Nevertheless, a guided tour brings with it additional benefits. Interacting with the guide provides valuable knowledge and understanding of the area and the chance to connect with other adventurous spirits eager to share the journey.
The difficulty levels of these two different options are proper to vary significantly. Going solo is often more challenging since the risks associated with the terrain can be much higher when alone.
However, solo hikers should always be well prepared, along with the right skills and knowledge, before setting out. On the other hand, compared to solo group tours provide an added layer of security. This is all because of the well-trained guides that can be relied upon for assistance in difficult situations.
Regarding safety, it is unarguable that tour groups are more secure than venturing solo. This is because tour groups will normally go with a guide who is familiar with the area and knowledgeable on best practices in a mountain environment. Moreover, you will have a phone and other safety measures in an emergency.
The last point to consider is the environmental factors of each option. Going solo leaves a much lighter environmental footprint, as fewer people and equipment need to be managed. However, taking a tour group would mean having less control over the group's impact on the area.
