Chandragiri to Champadevi Hike

Chandragiri Hills to Taudaha Hike via Champa Devi Temple
Overview
The hike from Chandragiri Hills to Taudaha Lake via Champa Devi Temple is one of the most scenic and rewarding hikes around the Kathmandu Valley. This full-day adventure lets you explore nature, enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, take in the fascinating cityscape of the entire Kathmandu Valley, and possibly spot wildlife along the trail if you’re lucky.

Chandragiri Hills
Elevation: 2,551 meters (8,369 feet)
Access: The top of Chandragiri Hill can be easily reached by a cable car that covers approximately 2.5 km, offering scenic views of the lush landscape with the Himalayas as the backdrop.
Historical Significance: The hill is historically important as it’s where King Prithvi Narayan Shah first glimpsed the Kathmandu Valley.
The Hike
Starting at Chandragiri Hill, the trail takes you through Champa Devi Temple and continues to Taudaha Lake in Kritipur. Along the way, you’ll pass Champa Devi Hill, which is the third highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley, standing at 2,278 meters. The hike offers stunning views of the following Himalayan peaks:

Annapurna I, II
Manaslu
Ganesh Himal
Langtang Lirung
Dorje Lakpa
Sisapangma
Jugal
Gaurishankar
As you walk, you’ll also enjoy magnificent views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding green hills. The hike is a perfect training opportunity for those preparing for longer treks, offering a long day of walking through the ridges connecting the hills.

Nature and Wildlife
The trail offers opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife and bird species. If you’re hiking in spring, you might also witness the beautiful blooming rhododendrons along the route.

Additional Information
Chandragiri Hill: The third highest peak in the Kathmandu Valley (2,551 meters).
Champa Devi Hill: Elevation of 2,285 meters (7,431 feet).
The hike starts from the higher elevation of Chandragiri Hill and descends to Champa Devi and Taudaha, though it can be done in reverse.
Cable Car and Historical Significance
The cable car ride to Chandragiri Hill is a unique experience. Historically, King Prithvi Narayan Shah planned to unite Nepal from this vantage point. The area also features a Shiva Temple, which is worth a quick visit.

End of the Hike
The hike can end in several places depending on your energy levels:

Short hike: Ends at Machchhegaun.
Longer hike: You can continue to Hattiban Resort, Pharping, Bhundol, Kritipur, or Taudaha via Champa Devi Hill.

Highlights of Chandragiri to Champadevi Hike

• Scenic Cable Car Ride: Enjoy breathtaking views during the cable car journey.
• Nature Walk: Immerse yourself in fresh, serene nature as you hike.
• Long-Range Mountain Views: Marvel at stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Zenith Views of Green Hills: Appreciate the beauty of lush, green hills along the trail.
• Kathmandu and Pharping Valley Views: Take in expansive views of the Kathmandu and Pharping Valleys.
• Peaceful Environment: Escape the noise of the city and enjoy the calmness of nature for a few hours.
• Wildlife and Bird Watching: Spot various wild animals and bird species along the way.

Day 1:
Drive to Chandragiri Cable Car station, Cable Car Ride to the Hill, and Hike to Taudaha via Champadevi.
Maximum Altitude: (2551m)