Overview

Lalitpur District is one of three districts in the Kathmandu Valley. Known for its history and architecture, Lalitpur is also popular for its day hikes and weekend getaways. Among the various hikes in Lalitpur, the Godawari to Chapkharka village is one of the least known and underrated ones. The hike from Godawari to Chapkharka is a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts, explorers, and adventure seekers alike. As this hike lies in the southern parts of Lalitpur District, it is mostly covered in lush green forests. The small village of Chapakharka is most notably famous for paragliding. Chapakharka is a small village in the Bishanku Village Development Committee.

Starting from Godawari, it is one of the most accessible starting points of any hike in Kathmandu. The serene trails and captivating landscape set the perfect ambiance for walking. The trail takes you through dense forests, high hills, and scenic viewpoints, eventually leading to the tranquil village of Chapkharka. Whether you’re looking for a perfect weekend getaway in one of the resorts or a day hike, Chapkharka is a great option.

Highlights of this Hike:

  • Beautiful Trails: Walk through dense forests filled with chirping bird sounds and the calming rustle of the dried leaves. This trail is one of the most picturesque ones. Although the trail is somewhat challenging, the serene trails make up for it.
  • Godawari Botanical Garden: The National Botanical Garden is a major highlight of this hike. Established in 1962, it is home to diverse plant species and peaceful surroundings. The starting point of the hike, Godawari, attracts many visitors daily.
  • Chapakharka Village: After an exhausting hike, you can reach the serene Chapkharka village. The open spaces of Chapkharka are ideal for picnics, relaxation, and paragliding. It is the hike’s destination.
  • Proximity to Kathmandu: Its close proximity to Kathmandu is perfect for people who are short on time. Located just 17 km from central Kathmandu, Godawari is accessible to all.
  • Paragliding: After the hike, you can choose to paraglide from Chapkharka village. It is a famous activity around this place, as many tourists visit it for paragliding.

Some Information On This Hike:

  • Maximum Elevation: 2100 meters
  • Hike Duration: 3-5 hours
  • Location: Lalitpur District
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best Time: All year long

Route Overview

Starting from Godawari Botanical Garden

Your hike begins at the famous Godawari Botanical Garden, Lalitpur. You can spend some time exploring its well-maintained pathways, vibrant flowers, and tranquil ponds before you head out to the trailhead. This is a bit of an unusual hiking trail, as the trail is pretty steep in the beginning, but it will get better as you ascend.

Ascending through the forest

This hike starts with a steeper ascent, and you will immediately be greeted with tall green trees. The trails of this hike are very beautiful, and you will be surrounded by the sounds of nature, like chirping birds. The fresh, earthy aroma of the forest is truly invigorating. The hike gradually steadies up and you can leisurely complete the hike.

Scenic Rest points

Along the trail, you will find multiple rest spots perfect for resting. From these viewpoints, you can also get scenic views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayas. As there are openings around such rest points, you can also take a small snack break. You can glimpse Langtang, Jugal, and Ganesh Himal from such viewpoints.

Godawari Flowers
Flowers of Godawari (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

 

Reaching Chapakharka

After approximately 3-4 hours of hiking, you will reach Chapakharka village. It is a famous spot for paragliding around the Kathmandu Valley. You can explore the culture and traditions of this place too. Located at an elevation of around 2100 meters, Chapakharka is a scenic spot for mountain scenery and paragliding.

Descending Back

The return hike is not too strenuous, hence can be completed leisurely. The hike back is an easy one, and you can take photographs and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Most hikers can descend back in less than an hour.

How To Prepare

To fully enjoy the Godawari to Chapakharka hike, you might want to prepare these things:

  1. Know the best times to visit: Spring and autumn are the most favorable times to hike in this region, as the skies are a lot clearer. The trail is also very pleasant around this time of the year.
  2. What to Pack: You should pack essentials such as water bottles, snacks, and a light jacket. Comfortable hiking shoes and a small backpack are also recommended.
  3. Fitness Level: As this hike is moderate, it is suitable for beginners. However, a basic level of fitness will ensure a more enjoyable experience.
  4. Start Early: Begin your hike early to make the most of the daylight and enjoy the cool and crisp air.
  5. Monitor the route: As this is a very new hiking trail, it is recommended to carry an offline map or properly monitor the route beforehand.

Also Read: The Challenging Yet Rewarding Phulchowki Hike