Looking for the top hiking places near Pokhara, adventurer? The good news is that you’ve got more than just a few options. Many hiking locations suit those looking to go on a long trek for several days and those looking for shorter journeys. These hiking places in Pokhara are some of the most popular in the valley and throughout Nepal. However, the famous hiking places near or in Pokhara Valley can be considered easy treks.
We do not include challenging treks like the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in this list. You can, however, trek in the Annapurna region’s more straightforward locations. You can opt for multiple treks if time allows since you follow trails that lead to more challenging and classic trekking journeys. Hikers can explore various trekking options through a short drive from Pokhara City. Be sure to read till the end of this article to know more!
Pokhara offers many excellent trekking trails that can be completed within 2 days. You can go to these hiking destinations once you’ve also completed a trip from Pokhara. Though not very high in altitude, each hiking destination in or close to Pokhara offers the best sunrise and sunset views. And since these hikes are not very long, you can return to Pokhara and explore the city further. Following are the top 15 hiking destinations near Pokhara:
Sarangkot is known among hikers everywhere as the perfect spot to enjoy sunrise and sunset. It is also one of the most straightforward trekking routes from Pokhara. While many tourists tend to drive to the sunset location, you can always walk for around 90 minutes to reach it from the Pokhara Baglung Highway. Though it’s not an utterly rural region, you will find many traditional houses and ways of life in Sarangkot.
The following are some quick facts about Sarangkot:
The World Peace Pagoda, or Pokhara Shanti Stupa, is a Buddhist monument in the Kaski district. The monastery is 8 km away from Pokhara City. From the start, you will pass local settlements and several jungle areas to reach the stupa. The following are some quick facts to remember about World Peace Pagoda:
Dhampus is one trek from Pokhara that does not take more than an hour or 45-minute drive to and from the city. It is a short trek that lasts a day. Yet, you will get the most terrific view of the Annapurna region’s mountain chain as well as the most beautiful and close appearance of Mount Machchapuchre. You can also reach the Australian Base Camp during the same journey. Following are quick facts to know about Dhampus:
All three lakes, including Phewa, Begnas, and Rupa Lake, are some of the largest lakes in Nepal. You can get a perfect glimpse of the mountains above 8000 meters when you’re here. This includes the Annapurna Himal range in the Annapurna region. In addition, the lakes are serene and will take you to another world even though they’re very close to the noisy marketplaces and habitats.
The following are the quick facts to keep in mind during your visit:
The Australian Base Camp trek is one of the most popular treks among hikers who are looking to explore the Himalayas without making too much physical effort. When you reach the location, you will find many colorful tents where the campers stay. The view of the mountains around is breathtaking, too. You can also go on the Australian Base Camp trek and the Dhampus hike. The destination is also a part of the Mardi Himal Trek. The highlights of this trek, along with a few things to remember, are as follows:
Naudanda is a Himal trek from Pokhara Valley that has been loved by hikers, beginners, and experts alike. The village is located in the northern part of Central Nepal. The trek is a relatively engaging journey as it will give you a glimpse of the locals who live with rural and ancient ways of life even today. Following are some of the significant points to remember when you’re going on the Pokhara trek:
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek completes in 2 days; by stretch, you can spend around 3-4 days in the location. You will get to explore authentic Gurung villages when you’re here. Visitors usually stay in Ghorepani after and before they’ve trekked to Poon Hill. You will pass by lush forests and the Rhododendron jungle. The trails are simple to complete, yet you may have to climb many stairs. Following are some points to remember when you’re on the hike:
Ghandruk village trek is one of the best treks near Pokhara. It is short and easy. While not many consider this journey a trek, you can consider this a short hike close to the Annapurna range. Many trekkers tend to descend to Ghandruk after they have completed their Poon hill trek. You can learn about the authentic culture of Nepal, especially the Gurung people, when you’re here. The following are all the factors to consider here:
Begnaskot hike is popular among those who love peacefulness on an adventure. You can boat in Begnas Lake, and the travel is not very difficult. Enjoy the beautiful view of plains, forests, lakes, and the Annapurna mountain range. If you’re looking for a peaceful day out, go on this day trip. Following are the factors you can keep in mind while you visit:
Siklesh is a hiking destination above the Madi Khola (Madi River). This location is similar to the trails of the Ghorepani Poon hill trek due to its dense habitat and traditional houses. The Annapurna Conservation Area preserves the village. You can reach the town directly by bus starting from Pokhara. It is one of the most straightforward routes for hikers in the Annapurna region.
The following are all of the factors to consider about Siklesh:
Sirubari village is a rich Gurung heritage location in the Syangja district, close to Pokhara. Here, you will meet people from different religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Shamanism. The Tourism Development and Management Committee (TDMC) requests that visitors host families in each household. This way, you can get the maximum rural cultural experience while exploring nature.
Following are the factors to consider when in here:
The Mohare Danda trek is perfect for trekkers looking for a simple trek. It is one of the most extended treks on our list. Though long, it is a moderate trek that does not require extreme physical fitness of the trekkers. During this journey, you will visit various villages, including Nangi, Beni, and Tilkot. Following are some of the factors to consider when in Mohare Danda:
The Khopra Danda trek, also known as the Khopra Ridge trek, offers an amazing view of the mountains to the south of Annapurna Himchuli: the Nilgiris, Mount Dhaulagiri, and Mount Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail). Visitors can also explore the traditions and culture of the Gurung and Magar communities, making the destination simple yet adventurous in the Annapurna region.
Following are the factors to consider when you’re in the destination:
The Kahun Danda hike has to be one of the most straightforward possible journeys in Pokhara Valley. If you opt for this hike, you don’t have to spend days traveling from Pokhara to other locations, as it ends within a day. This makes it family-friendly, and even children and older demography can enjoy this trip without issue. It makes for a refreshing walk of a few hours from the city. Following are the factors to consider when you’re going to Kahun Danda:
Royal Trek is a popular trek at the foothill of Pokhara. You can go to the Gurung hamlet and experience the authenticity of their rich traditions when here. The trek has gotten its name mainly because Prince Charles and his 90 companions went on this trek in the eighties. You can reach the route only 30km away from the city. The following are all you need to consider when you’re going on the Royal Trek:
If you want to go to the top hiking places near Pokhara, you must consider more than just a trekking route in the Annapurna. It is common for beginners not to know every trek in their journey. However, looking for locations around the valley that are not commonly heard of can be an adventure. Once you’ve gone through each location above, select one that you think best suits you and prepare for your next adventure!
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