After having a hearty breakfast, you take a drive through the heavy chaotic traffic on the streets up to Satdobato and then along the less busy road to Godavari with some plain and slight uphill roads well pitched.
You will set off a hike from Godawari. Then, ascend through the picturesque forest that provides a cool breeze to soothe the sweat and heat from the sun. The trial involves multiple shortcut routes and a series of sharp switchbacks. The foot trail frequently meets up with the brownish, tranquil off-road through the dense forest.
As you hike up, you get to see more stunning views, varied trees, and sunlight piercing through towering trees. The uphill climb from Godavari to Chapakharka incorporates the beautiful sights of layer hills, glorious Himalayan ranges like Lakpa Dorje, Langtang, Manaslu, and an eagle view of the entire Kathmandu and Lalitpur valley. Moreover, you are likely to spot a diverse range of birds, and their melodious sounds make hiking more energetic and mesmerizing.
After 2 hours of the hike from the Godavari, we reach Chapa Kharka situated at the foothill of Phulchowki Danda. It is the place where the paragliding flight starts from its hilltop. It is also an alternative route to Phulchowki, Lakuri Bhanjyang tower, and Panauti.
You take a break here for the lunch and enjoy overlooking the verdant hills and local people. Thereafter, continue walking meandering flat off-road trail and narrow path, enjoying the distant view of the mountains and thatched houses perched on the hill. After a ½ hour’s walk, you reached open ground where mountain ranges are visible.
Once you savour the wonderful Himalayan grandeur, we head towards Khani Gaon. (Note: You have the option to take both off-road, which is easier to walk than the steep downhill. Having an alternative motorable route makes the hike easier for those who are not used to hiking.).
Once you reach Khani Gaon, the trail will pass through quaint villages. The trail from hereafter is through mustard fields, quaint villages, and pine jungles in some sections. There’s also an opportunity for you may come across some wildlife, such as goats, cows, hens, and birds of prey.
Hike from Khani Gaon is a downhill journey all the way to Manedobhan (Panauti). We hike down, relishing the beautiful rural settings and encountering the friendly villagers along the way. The walk is arduous in some sections as the trail consists of narrow steep downhill. After an hour-long walk downhill, we reach Manedobhan, where we take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu.
The drive is a beautiful descent through the valley where you’ll get to see the traditional houses, terrace farmland, and villagers working in the field. From Panauti, you’ll make your way to Kathmandu.
