Trekking · Kathmandu
Hattiban to Bhasmasur Hike
Climb from the Hattiban pine forest along the southern rim past Champadevi to the Bhasmasur ridge peak.
The Hattiban to Bhasmasur hike climbs from the fragrant Hattiban pine forest above Pharping onto the southern rim of the Kathmandu Valley, passing the shrine peak of Champadevi and continuing along the crest to the higher, quieter summit of Bhasmasur at roughly 2,400 metres. It is a moderate full half-day with wide valley and Himalayan views, ideal for walkers who want more than the standard Champadevi climb.
The route
The hike begins in the Hattiban forest, a stand of mature pines on the slope above Pharping, under an hour by road from Kathmandu. The trail climbs steadily through the woods to the ridge below Champadevi, then follows the crest west and south to the rockier top of Bhasmasur. Linking both summits makes for four to six hours round trip; you can turn back at Champadevi for a shorter day or push on to Bhasmasur for the bigger view. The Hattiban slopes are also known for their rock outcrops — see the Hattiban rock climbing pin for the crag at the base.
The summit and view
Bhasmasur, sometimes written Bhasmeshwor, takes its name from the demon of Hindu legend who was tricked into burning himself to ash. Its summit is rockier and far quieter than Champadevi, and being a touch higher it opens an even broader sweep over the valley and, on clear mornings, the Himalaya to the north. Prayer flags and a modest shrine mark the top.
Combining the climb
The ridge naturally pairs with Champadevi — read the Champadevi hike pin for the lower of the two peaks and its alternative trailheads. At the foot of the hill, the temples and caves around Pharping make a rich cultural add-on; see the Pharping monasteries and Asura Cave guide.
Good to know
- Moderate effort — steeper and longer than Champadevi alone, with a rocky final ridge.
- Start early for clear views and to allow time for the full ridge.
- Carry water, snacks and layers; the ridge is exposed and cool.
- Best in dry, clear weather; afternoon cloud often closes the view.
Bhasmasur is one of the Kathmandu Valley viewpoint hikes; for more options see the best day hikes near Kathmandu, and for planning the Nepal trekking guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bhasmasur?+
Bhasmasur, sometimes spelled Bhasmeshwor, is a peak on the southern rim of the Kathmandu Valley just beyond Champadevi, named after the demon of Hindu legend. At roughly 2,400 metres it is slightly higher than Champadevi and gives an even wider view from a quieter, rockier summit.
How long is the Hattiban to Bhasmasur hike?+
From the Hattiban forest it is a full half-day to a moderate day, around four to six hours round trip, as the route climbs to the Champadevi ridge and then continues along it to the Bhasmasur peak. Linking both summits makes it longer than Champadevi alone.
Where does the Hattiban to Bhasmasur hike start?+
It starts in the Hattiban pine forest above Pharping on the southern edge of the valley, reached by road from Kathmandu in under an hour. The trail climbs through forest to the ridge below Champadevi, then follows the crest west and south to Bhasmasur.
Is the Hattiban to Bhasmasur hike difficult?+
It is moderate — steeper and longer than the Champadevi climb, with a rockier final approach along the ridge. Sure footing and an early start help, and it is best in clear, dry weather. The trails are well used but a guide adds route-finding help on the connecting ridge.
