From the Barahi ghat or another Lakeside boat stand, hire a boat to the landing below Anadu hill on the south shore. The crossing takes 20–30 minutes, and you can stop at Tal Barahi temple on the way. At the landing, small cafes and a signpost mark the start of the trail, which climbs into the dense Raniban forest, protected as a community forest and home to monkeys and many birds.
The trail is a mix of stone steps and dirt path, climbing about 300 m in roughly 45 minutes at a steady pace. It is shaded and cool, with a few viewpoints back over the lake. Near the top you emerge at a ridge with a few cafes and guesthouses, then climb the final steps to the stupa terrace, where the view over Phewa and towards the Annapurnas opens suddenly.
Spend 45 minutes at the stupa. For the return, either go back down to the boat (agree this when you hire it), walk down the south side to Chhorepatan on the Siddhartha Highway in about an hour and visit Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave, or walk east along the ridge and down to Damside. Wear proper walking shoes, carry water and avoid the forest trail after heavy rain. Allow 3–4 hours in total.
Good for
- Couples
- Families
- First-timers
- Photographers
Questions travellers ask
How long is the hike to the World Peace Pagoda?
From the boat landing on Phewa's south shore it takes about 45 minutes uphill, gaining roughly 300 m on stone steps and forest path. From Damside across the dam it is about an hour. The descent to Chhorepatan or back to the landing takes 30–60 minutes.
Is the Peace Pagoda hike suitable for children?
Yes, for children of about five and older who can walk 45 minutes uphill with breaks. The trail is shaded and well used. Hold younger children's hands on the steeper steps and keep snacks out of sight, as monkeys in the forest can grab food.
Is the Raniban forest trail safe?
Generally yes during daylight; it is a popular route with many walkers. There have been rare reports of thefts on quiet stretches in the past, so walk in a group or with a guide, avoid going late in the day and keep valuables discreet. Do not walk it after dark.
