Ghyampe Danda is ideal for people who want to hike around the Katmandu Valley but have restricted time and budget.[break]
Bare essentials
A day bag
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Sun-block cream
Hat/cap
Reasonable walking shoes
Light warm jacket
Windcheater
Light snacks
An extra pair of clothes
Hike level
This is an easy to moderate hike and is fit for all age groups. You can choose the jeep track which is more easy and comfortable or take an uphill trail for more adventurous hiking.
Getting there
Public vehicles to Surya Binayak can be boarded from the Old Bus Park of Kathmandu. It will take around 30 minutes in public bus to get to Surya Binayak. You can also take private vehicle to get there. You will also enjoy driving on the wide stretch of the Araniko Highway or you choose to go on by yourself.
From the Surya Binayak Temple, the hike to Ghyampe Danda takes around two hours.
Hike highlights
The hike is one of the popular trails for short trips around the Kathmandu Valley. In addition to the bird’s eye view of the three valleys of the capital, it is also popular for beautiful views of sunset and sunrise. The hilltop also gives a nice view of the Himalaya from the northern and southern ranges.
The place is also ideal for bird watching and you will also get to taste different local fruits like raspberries if you visit there during March-April. It is also famous for the view of a nearby mountain which gives an illusion of the Sleeping Buddha.
If you hike for another hour from Ghyampe Danda to Ranikot Gahri, you can view the backside of Mount Everest. You can also extend your hike to Bagh Bhairav or Lakure Bhanjyang and walk to Lubhu, from where you can get back to the city.
The hike trail to Ghyampe Danda is also popular for cycling.
Weather
Mornings and evenings are chilled while you can enjoy the warm sun in the afternoon. This time of the year is said to be the best for the hike to Ghyampe Danda.
Information courtesy
socialtours, Tridevi Marg, Thamel
For details, call 4412508, or email at info@socialtours.com
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