Khokana Bungmati Tour with Phulchowki Hiking

The Khokana and Bungmati tour offers a unique glimpse into the Newari culture and medieval heritage of Nepal. These traditional villages are rich in art, architecture, and local lifestyle. You'll walk through cobbled streets, ancient temples, and witness age-old traditions still alive today. It’s a peaceful cultural retreat close to Kathmandu, ideal for those wanting an authentic Nepali experience. Asiana Treks and Tours curates this experience with local insights and historical depth to make your day immersive and unforgettable.

Khokana and Bungmati are located at an altitude of approximately 1335 meters (4381 ft), while Phulchowki peak reaches 2791 meters. This significant altitude difference offers a dynamic two-day experience, starting with cultural immersion in the valley and ending with an invigorating mountain hike. The ascent is gradual and safe, with enough rest and acclimatization time. Asiana Treks and Tours has designed the itinerary for comfort, ensuring you enjoy both the lowland heritage and highland beauty without altitude stress.

Khokana is famous for its traditional mustard oil production and the Rudrayani temple, while Bungmati is known as the birthplace of the deity Machhindranath. You'll explore centuries-old Newari homes, temples, and community courtyards. Festivals, wood carvings, and local rituals provide cultural depth. Asiana Treks and Tours’ expert guides offer context to each landmark, helping visitors appreciate the legacy and living traditions of these historic villages. This is a living museum of Newari civilization, untouched by modern chaos.

Yes, the Khokana and Bungmati tour is very suitable for families, including elderly travelers, as it's mostly walking through flat village paths. The Phulchowki hike is moderately challenging and may be best for those with reasonable fitness. Families can opt to visit the Godawari Botanical Garden and enjoy a shorter nature walk instead. Asiana Treks and Tours can customize the experience to accommodate all age groups, ensuring a safe and fulfilling trip for everyone.

Phulchowki is a biodiversity hotspot. The trail passes through subtropical forests featuring rhododendrons, orchids, oaks, and ferns. Birdwatchers will love spotting over 250 bird species, including the Himalayan monal, kalij pheasant, and several migratory birds. Occasionally, you might spot monkeys or small mammals. Asiana Treks and Tours provides expert naturalist guides on request, turning the hike into an educational journey through Nepal’s vibrant ecosystem.

No special permits are needed for Khokana, Bungmati, or the Phulchowki hike. However, there might be a small entry fee at Godawari or Phulchowki checkpoint, which is usually included in the package offered by Asiana Treks and Tours. Our team handles all entrance fees and permissions, ensuring a hassle-free experience for our guests. Just bring your ID, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for village exploration and sturdy hiking boots for Phulchowki. Layered clothing is advised, as temperatures vary with altitude and time of day. Bring a rain jacket (especially during monsoon), sunscreen, water bottle, sunglasses, and a hat. A daypack for the hike and a camera for the scenic and cultural shots are recommended. Asiana Treks and Tours provides a detailed packing checklist before the trip so you can be fully prepared.

Khokana is approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of Kathmandu and takes about 30–45 minutes by vehicle depending on traffic. Bungmati is nearby and often visited on the same day. Asiana Treks and Tours arranges private, comfortable transport with knowledgeable local guides who ensure you maximize your time at each location rather than in transit. The proximity makes it an ideal day trip with rich experiences packed into a short distance.

Yes, Asiana Treks and Tours provides a traditional Newari lunch during the Khokana and Bungmati visit, offering you a taste of local cuisine in an authentic setting. For the Phulchowki hike, we provide a packed lunch or arrange a local meal at Godawari, depending on the group preference and pace. All meals are hygienically prepared with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available. Please let us know in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

Absolutely! Both the village tour and the hike can be booked separately if you have limited time or specific interests. Asiana Treks and Tours offers flexible itineraries. You can opt for a full-day heritage walk in Khokana and Bungmati or focus solely on the Phulchowki hike. We also provide customized combos, so you can add other nearby attractions. Just let us know your preferences, and we’ll tailor the experience accordingly.

Our guides are licensed, experienced, and fluent in English and other languages on request. For the Khokana and Bungmati tour, our guides specialize in cultural heritage and history, while for Phulchowki, we provide nature and trekking guides familiar with the trail, wildlife, and flora. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that your guide is not just informative but also friendly and responsive to your needs throughout the journey.

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is clear and temperatures are pleasant. These times offer the best visibility from Phulchowki’s summit and lush green village surroundings. However, Khokana and Bungmati can be visited year-round, and winter hiking is also possible with warm clothing. Asiana Treks and Tours operates this tour throughout the year, adjusting itineraries based on weather conditions to ensure a comfortable experience.

The hike from Godawari to the summit of Phulchowki is approximately 13–14 kilometers round trip and takes about 6–7 hours, including breaks. The trail is gradual with some steep sections near the top. The descent is quicker but requires careful footing. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures the pace suits the group, with enough time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings. The full-day hike is rewarding and one of the best near Kathmandu.

Basic restrooms are available in Khokana and Bungmati at community centers or local restaurants. Along the Phulchowki hiking trail, restrooms are limited, but there are facilities at Godawari before the hike starts. Asiana Treks and Tours advises guests to use the restroom at the base before the hike. We also provide sanitation supplies like tissues and hand sanitizer, and our guides ensure you’re comfortable throughout the trip.

Yes, Asiana Treks and Tours is committed to sustainable tourism. We practice Leave No Trace principles during the hike and promote community-based tourism in the villages. Our guides encourage respectful interaction with locals, proper waste disposal, and minimal environmental impact. We also support local businesses and artisans, contributing directly to the village economy. When you travel with us, you’re part of responsible travel that values both nature and culture.

Both options are available. Asiana Treks and Tours welcomes solo travelers and can organize a private tour for a more personalized experience. Alternatively, you can join a small group tour to meet like-minded travelers. Group sizes are kept small to maintain quality and flexibility. Whether solo or in a group, you’ll receive the same attentive service and expert guidance throughout your journey.

Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel in Kathmandu is included in the tour package. Asiana Treks and Tours provides private, air-conditioned vehicles for both the village tour and the hiking trip. Our drivers are experienced and familiar with local routes. If you’re staying outside the main city area, we’ll coordinate pickup or suggest a nearby meeting point. Travel comfort and safety are our priorities.

In case of heavy rain or unsafe trail conditions, the Phulchowki hike may be postponed or replaced with an alternate activity like a guided botanical garden tour or Patan heritage visit. The village tour is generally unaffected by light rain. Asiana Treks and Tours always prioritizes guest safety and offers flexible rescheduling options. We keep you informed and provide rain gear if needed. Your experience will be adapted smoothly without compromising quality.

Booking is simple. Visit our website or contact us directly via email or phone. Asiana Treks and Tours offers easy online payments and quick confirmations. You can also visit our Kathmandu office for personal consultation. Let us know your dates, preferences, and group size, and we’ll arrange everything from transportation to meals. We recommend booking at least 2–3 days in advance, especially during peak seasons.