Overview of Hike around Pokhara:
A hike around Pokhara immerses you in the Pokhara Valley’s natural splendor, ideal for Kathmandu travelers. Trails like Sarangkot offer Himalayan views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, best in spring or autumn. These 3–6-hour treks wind through forests and Gurung villages, providing a serene escape from Pokhara’s lakeside vibrancy. Perfect for beginners, each trail blends adventure with Nepal’s scenic beauty, connecting you to the region’s landscapes and traditions for a memorable experience.
Exploring nature trails like Ghandruk reveals Gurung culture, just a short drive from Pokhara. Cultural sites such as World Peace Pagoda add spiritual depth to your journey. These day hikes balance adventure with cultural immersion, catering to nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. From panoramic vistas to tranquil village paths, Pokhara’s trails offer an unforgettable escape, showcasing the region’s unique blend of natural beauty and heritage, easily accessible for travelers starting their adventure from Kathmandu.
Trip facts of Hike around Pokhara:
Destination
Nepal/ Annapurna
Duration
8 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Activities
Tour and Trek
Accommodation
Hotels / Tea House
Food
Breakfast /Lunch /Dinner
Best Season
Sept to Nov / Mar to May
Max.altitude
4130m
Transportation
Drive/ Flight
Group Size
1 to 14++
Map
Highlight of Hike around Pokhara:
- Sarangkot Hill: Popular for spectacular sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and Phewa Lake.
- Poon Hill Viewpoint: Famous for panoramic Himalayan views, including Machapuchare (Fishtail) peak.
- World Peace Pagoda: A serene Buddhist stupa overlooking Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake.
- Davis Falls: A stunning waterfall created by underground water channels.
- Begnas Lake: A peaceful lake perfect for a relaxing stop on your hike.
- Chandragiri Hills: Offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and Pokhara Valley with cable car access.
- Gupteshwor Cave: A sacred cave with a temple inside, located near Davis Falls.
- Seti River Gorge: Deep gorge with turquoise water carving through limestone cliffs.
- Rupa Lake: Quiet and less crowded lake with beautiful natural surroundings.
- Traditional Villages and Farmland: Explore local Gurung and Magar villages with terraced fields and rich culture.
Hike around Hike around Pokhara:
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
- Warm welcome by our representative at Tribhuvan International Airport, followed by a smooth transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
- Relax or explore Thamel’s vibrant markets and nearby temples like Boudhanath, soaking in the city’s charm.
Day 2: Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- After breakfast, depart Kathmandu by tourist bus (~6–7 hours) or flight (~25 minutes) to Pokhara, enjoying scenic mountain and river vistas en route.
- Check into your Lakeside hotel and explore Phewa Lake or relax at a café, preparing for your trekking adventure.
Day 3: Day Hike to Sarangkot
- Drive ~30 minutes to the Sarangkot trailhead (1,592 m). Trek through forests, enjoying vistas of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, reaching a sunrise viewpoint (3–4 hours round trip).
- Descend, have lunch at a local eatery, and return to Pokhara. Visit Bindhyabasini Temple or boat on Phewa Lake.
Day 4: Day Hike to World Peace Pagoda
- Drive ~15 minutes to Anadu for the World Peace Pagoda trail (1,100 m). Trek through forests to the pagoda with vistas of Dhaulagiri (3–4 hours round trip).
- Return by boat across Phewa Lake, have lunch, and explore Lakeside’s cafes or Tal Barahi Temple.
Day 5: Day Hike to Ghandruk
- Drive ~1.5 hours to Nayapul for the Ghandruk trail (1,940 m). Trek through Gurung villages with vistas of Annapurna South (5–6 hours round trip).
- Return to Pokhara, have lunch, and visit the International Mountain Museum or relax.
Day 6: Cultural Exploration Day in Pokhara
- Visit Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave and Devi’s Fall, immersing in Pokhara’s spiritual and natural attractions.
- Enjoy lunch by Phewa Lake, explore markets, or opt for paragliding for aerial views before dinner.
Day 7: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- After breakfast, depart Pokhara by bus (~6–7 hours) or flight (~25 minutes) to Kathmandu, enjoying final mountain and valley glimpses.
- Check into your Kathmandu hotel and spend the evening exploring Thamel or relaxing, reflecting on your trekking adventure.
Day 8: Departure from Kathmandu
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, with optional visits to temples like Pashupatinath or Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, concluding your trekking adventure.
Include Exclude in Hike around Pokhara:
What’s Included
- Transport I: Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini, with private vehicle
- Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini (based on the itinerary), including breakfast
- Documents: All required trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS), official documents, paperwork, office service charges, and government taxes
- Transport II: Transportation between Kathmandu or Lumbini to Pokhara (round trip) is arranged as per the itinerary, either by tourist bus, private vehicle, or plane
- Transport III: Transportation from Pokhara to the trek start point and back from the trek end point according to the itinerary
- Guide: Experience trekking guide
- Porters: One porter will be provided for every two trekkers
- Duffel Bag: If you need a duffel bag, please let us know before booking the trip and remind us after you arrive
- Trekking Map: A trekking route map for the group leader
- Food and Accommodation: Food and accommodation during the trek in tea houses (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Nepali Dinner: A farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant
What’s Excluded
- Flight ticket: International flight tickets and airport tax
- Nepal visa: You can get your Nepal visa upon arrival at the airport
- City Lunch: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu / Pokhara / Lumbini
- City tour: city tour with a vehicle and entry fees for visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Personal expenses: like laundry, phone calls, snacks, drinks, bar bills, and camera battery charging
- Travel Insurance: It should cover emergency evacuation if needed, while trekking to the highest point listed in the itinerary
- Trekking Equipment: Personal trekking gears for your comfort and safety
- Transport IV: Local jeep or bus transport during the trek (if needed but not mentioned in the itinerary)
- Tips and Gifts: Tips for guides, porters, drivers and related staff during trip
Gallery:
FAQs about Hike around Pokhara:
1. What is the best time for hiking around Pokhara?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ideal for hiking. Early mornings provide the best mountain views. Monsoon season can be rainy and slippery, so it’s less recommended.
2. How difficult are the day hikes around Pokhara?
Most day hikes near Pokhara are easy to moderate, suitable for beginners and casual hikers. Trails vary from gentle lakeside walks to more uphill forest trails, so you can pick based on your fitness level.
3. How do I reach the starting points for hikes around Pokhara?
Most trailheads are easily accessible from Pokhara city by taxi, bike, or even walking for nearby spots like Davis Falls or World Peace Pagoda. For hills like Sarangkot or Chandragiri, a short drive or cable car ride is needed.
4. Do I need a guide for hiking around Pokhara?
Guides are not necessary for popular trails like Sarangkot or Poon Hill but can enhance your experience by sharing local insights and ensuring safety on less-frequented paths. Hiring a guide is recommended for longer or remote treks.
5. What should I bring for a day hike near Pokhara?
Explore places like World Peace Pagoda or Bindhyabasini Temple during treks.Pack comfortable shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and layered clothing for changing weather. A camera is great for capturing stunning views, and rain gear is advisable during monsoon months.
