| Duration: Full day | Max Altitude: 2000m | ||
| Group Size: 2-10 | Location: Kathmandu | ||
| Difficulty: easy | Per Day Walk: 4-6 | ||
| Accommodation: Transportation |
Ghyampe Danda Hike: 2-Hour Hike Near Kathmandu
Ghyampe Danda to Lakuri Bhanjyang: An unexplored hiking destination
Ghyampe Danda, whose name originates from the Nepali word ghyampe, meaning “big soil pot (Ghyampo)”, is a rising star in Kathmandu’s hiking scene. This beautiful green hill is just 14 km away from Kathmandu and lies on the southwestern side of Bhaktapur, at a height of 2000 m above sea level. The Ghyampe Dada location is known for its scenic trails, serene environment, and panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayan ranges. The Government of Nepal(GoN) has recently recognized Ghyampe Danda and its periphery for their historical, cultural, and natural significance. Consequently, the Government of Nepal and other concerned stakeholders are planning to establish a zoological garden in the extended forest area. Rope cycling, Zip flying, Hiking, jungle safari, and many more adventurous attractions are also consolidated in the plan.
Lakuri Bhanjyang
Located in the southeastern region of Lalitpur, Lakuri Bhanjyang is a breathtaking hilltop perfect for soaking in panoramic views of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur. It’s the perfect end to a rewarding hike to Ghyampe Dada through Ranikot. It is famous for the peaceful environment, scenic vistas, and its accessibility from major cities, making it a highlight among hiking trails near Kathmandu.
Additional information
- Depending on the time, the hike can be extended to the Chapakharka hills for an extra adventure.
- Two additional intriguing sites can be visited before reaching Pilot Baba Ashram:
- Doleshwor Mahadev Temple: a sacred and culturally significant Hindu temple.
- A long-forgotten aircraft hidden deep within the jungle: a mysterious and rare sight.
- Alternatively, we also have options for hiking through jungle trails from the Surya Binayak temple to reach the Pilot Baba Ashram in Bhaktapur.
Includes
- Hotel Pickup and Drop off
- Professional guide
- Transportation
- Good sized Lunch
Excludes
- Any kind of drinks (tea, coffee, bottled drinking water, hot water, etc) and of bar bills (alcoholic beverages)
- Tips and gratitude to your guides and driver
- Accommodation in Kathmandu
Itinerary
-
1:
Pick Up
-
2:
Stop At: Suryabinayak Temple
-
3:
Stop At: Pilot Baba Ashram
-
4:
Stop At: Ranikot Gadhi
-
5:
Stop At: Lakuri Bhanjyang
-
6:
Drop off
1. Pickup
You will be picked up from your respective hotels around 8:00 Am from the hotel we will be moving towards the first hiking stop.
2. Stop At: Suryabinayak Temple
An elevated stairway takes you amongst one of the four famous shrines of Lord Ganesh. It would be the perfect start-off. After all, people of Nepal consider that getting blessings from Lord Ganesh before starting something brings fortune, good luck and prosperity. Don’t you think that’s a great way to start a journey?
3. Stop At: Pilot Baba Ashram
Pilot Baba Ashram is named after sage and former Indian army, Left-wing commander Kapil Singh who left his job to find inner peace as he witnessed the adverse impact of human conflicts and barbarous warfare. This beautiful Sanctuary is dedicated to the temple of Lord Shiva (Som Nath), one can just get relaxed and sit in an open courtyard while the place also offers big indoor meditation hall with a tranquil calm environment. To reach Ashram from Surya Binayak temple covers approximate time around 20 minutes by a ride.
4. Stop At: Ranikot Gadhi
Our journey continues to Ranikot Gadhi, a historical site once used by the Shah dynasty during the unification of Nepal, where a palace was built for a queen by a Lichhavi king. Later, Shah dynasty king Prithvi Narayan Shah deployed his military force and utilized it as a strategic fort for warfare to conquer Bhaktapur, which has also become a popular destination for domestic tourism nowadays. It would take around 30-45 minutes to reach our destination. Revitalization is essential for an exuberant walk, so we pause here to enjoy lunch and recharge.
5. Stop At: Lakuri Bhanjyang
From Ranikot Gadhi, a 5.7 km trail leads to Lakuri Bhanjyang. It takes around 2 hours walking via jungle trails and off-road. Along the way, you’ll find scenic view towers with educational displays on local topography. The route offers unforgettable sights of the valley and the Himalayan ranges, cementing hike to Ghyampe Dada as one of the top hikes with mountain views.
6. Drop Off
We return to Kathmandu via the Godawari route and drop you off at your hotel, concluding the memorable Ghyampe Danda hike.
Ghyampe Dada Hike: FAQ
Especially during the months of March, April and May when rhododendron flowers blossom throughout the jungle and chirping of birds with shimmering gleams of the first ray of sunshine will be the major attraction of the village stay. If you can consider walking a muddy road and slippery trails during the rainy season from June to August or one can enjoy views of snow-capped mountains and Himalayan ranges from November to February. As the weather gets clear during the winter season but someday might be hazy too.
We will mostly be ascending from the beginning of our journey and there are very few falls. However, considering the overall scenario, one should avoid cotton clothing which absorbs sweat during a walk instead choose clothes made up of polyester, nylon or merino materials for base layers, which comes in contact with the skin directly. we recommend you to wear comfortable, stretchable and durable joggers. During winter Merino wool, polyester and a light down jacket or windcheater combo also go well.
We will be exploring different places on the way to our destination. It depends on how long we get indulged in various locations. Actual estimated time to reach from starting point to the destination is around 3 hrs if we walk continuously.
The 6.5 km journey from Suryabinayak Temple to Pilot Baba Ashram follows a smooth, graveled pitch road. While there are no retail shops at the start of the hike, a few small local shops begin to appear as you get closer to the Ashram, offering basic items and refreshments.
It’s a burden carrying a weighty backpack during hike .so, we recommend you to carry a 20-25 litres backpack which will be sufficient for you to store 2-4 litre water, Few packaged foods, first aids and your important stuff.
Yes, accommodation options are available near the various stops along the Ghyampe Danda hike. Ghyampe Danda and Ranikot feature a mix of local eateries, basic hotels, and a few high-end resorts. At the final stop, you’ll find simple yet welcoming guesthouses. While they may lack some modern amenities, they are clean and offer essential facilities like private toilets and bathing areas in each room.
Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation email containing your hiking details, including the meeting point and other important information you may need to know. Most of our meeting points are easily accessible which is located near Thamel and Lazimpat area.
Our group consists of couples, friends and single travelers from the age range 18 to 70.
Why Mountain Routes ?
- Local Support
- Instant Response
- Customized Packages
- Friendly and Professional Guides
Not satisfied with what we offer ?
We can customize the trip for you.
