“The City of Lakes”, Pokhara is the hub for every adventurer’s paradise. It has loads of outdoor thrills to offer that provide a blend of amusement and relaxation. For those unknown, Pokhara is located on the Western side of Nepal in Kaski.
Not to mention, Pokhara is also the starting point for most of the trekking trails around Nepal. This Valley is beautiful filled with tranquil lakes, green hills, multiple settlements, and the backdrop of Annapurna ranges to explore.
Hence, if you have a limited timeframe during your visit to Nepal, there are multiple short, easy, and mesmerising trails. All these tracks have unique cultures and views. However, if you are overwhelmed as a first-time trekker, we have put out a list of some of the most popular treks that you can get started with.
Mardi Himal Trek ( 4 to 5 Days)
- Starting Point: Kande
- Difficulty Level: Moderately Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 4,500 meters
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Authentic culture, ethnic settlements, pristine nature, and easy to accomplish are what define the Mardi Himal Trek. It is popular among all age groups and levels of trekkers.
During the journey, you will pass through small fields, villages, and woodlands. The Autumn and Spring seasons are the best time to visit as the trails are filled with lush greenery and rhododendrons.
Additionally, the weather is clear and warm filled with aroma. While you are on this journey do not miss the sunrise and sunset!
Highlights
- Panoramic views of mountain ranges such as Annapurna South, Himchuli, Machapuchrre and many more.
- Sunrise and sunset view of the mountain views.
- Trek through blooming Rhododendron forests.
Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek (6 to 9 Days)
- Starting Point: Nayapul
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Maximum Elevation: 4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
It is one of the best and most popular treks in Nepal that provides you with a breathtaking view of Annapurna massifs. Every age group are into this trek and is perfect for those who want to experience Himalayan beauty in a short time.
During the journey, you will pass through Gurung settlements, terraced farms, and dense forests.
Highlights
- Stunning views of Annapurna ranges, Machhapuchre, Khangsar, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli.
- Closeup experience of ethnic Gurung settlement and culture.
- Relaxing hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (7 Days)
(Sunrise view at the top of Poonhill)
- Starting Point: Nayapul
- Difficulty Level: Moderately Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 3,210 meters at Poon Hill
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Ghorepani and Poon Hill trekking is a combination of two destinations and takes you through Gurung and Tamang settlements. During the journey, you will walk through rhododendron forests and enchanting villages. It is a simple trek that anyone can enjoy without prior experience.
There are some steep inclines along the way however, the journey is pretty easy with rewarding mountain views at the end. Furthermore, you will find multiple teahouses in between.
Highlights
- Views of Mount Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.
- Explore Pokhara city.
- Sunset and sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Ghandruk Trek (3 Days)
(Ghandruk village scenery)
- Starting Point: Nayapul
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 1,940 meters
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Currently, this ethnic Gurung village has been the go-to vacation among travellers. It is a traditional community located in the foothills of the Annapurna mountain range. You can start this trek after an hour drive from Pokhara to Phedi.
During this journey, you will not only get to experience traditional Gurung culture but will also be greeted with the majestic views of the Annapurna range.
Highlights
- Views of Annapurna ranges and Mount Machhapuchhre.
- Experience the day-to-day life and culture of the Gurung community.
- Visit the Gurung Museum.
Dhampus Village Trek (3 to 4 Days)
(Nepalese lady infront of her home in Dhampus village with Himalayas in the background)
- Starting Point: Phedi
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 1,650 meters
- Best Seasons: Autumn (September, October, and November)
This trek is located in the north of Pokhara filled with golden rice fields and majestic mountain views. It starts from Phedi which is 30 minutes drive away from Pokhara.
As you reach Dhampus after 2 days, it serves as a fantastic viewpoint for Annapurna ranges. Hence, this village is perfect for a short vacation.
Highlights
- Exotic views of Machhapuchhre and Himalayan ranges.
- A scenic viewpoint.
- Close up experience of traditional Gurung settlement.
Dhampus Village Trek (1 Day)
(Dhampus Village)
- Starting Point: Panchase Marg
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 1,592 meters
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
It is one of the shortest and easiest trek from Pokhara which is only 3 hours hike uphill. Basically, you can wrap up this journey in a single day and today, it has been the most popular one-night destination.
Hence, it is one of the perfect escapes after a long week or a perfect destination for a day’s escape. Not to mention, this hilltop is also a famous place for paragliding so if you are seeking for an adventure, there you have it!
Highlights
- Mesmerising sunrise and sunset view.
- 360 degree panoramic view of Pokhara, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre ranges.
- Outdoor adventure with paragliding.
Annapurna Panorama Trek (6 to 10 Days)
(Morning view of Mount Annapurna)
- Starting Point: Nayapul
- Difficulty Level: Moderately Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 3,210 meters at Poon Hill
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Well, the Annapurna Panorama trek is an extended version of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek that takes you around the foothills of Annapurna. This particular journey is designed for all age groups and hence, can be easily scaled.
The walking adventure usually takes you through the local Gurung villages and rhododendron forests after starting and ending the journey at Dhampus.
Highlights
- Mesmerizing views of Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna III (7,937 meters), Annapurna IV (7,525 meters), Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters), and Gangapurna (7,455 meters).
- Trek through the Himalayan foothills.
- Experience the ethnic culture and explore villages.
Begnaskot Trek (1 Day)
(Closeup View of Begnas Lake with yellow-colored wooden boats)
- Starting Point: Begnas Lake
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 1,300 meters
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
It is a lovely one day hike from Begnas Lake which is 30 minutes drive away from Pokhara. As you arrive in Begnas Lake, you will boat and cross it to start your hike up the hill. You can take your own sweet time and ascend in around two hours.
Well, this trail is located in the northeast side of the Begnas Lake. Additionally, this journey is culturally, naturally, and religiously rich. During the hike, you will pass through Sundari Danda.
Highlights
- Close-up views of mountain raanges such as Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri.
- Experience the authentic remote lifestyle of the locals.
- Boating over Begnas Lake.
- Visit Begnaskot Temple.
- Get magnificent views of Rupa and Begnas Lake from the viewpoint.
SiklesTrek (6 Days)
(Lamjung Himal)
- Starting Point: Bhurjung Khola
- Difficulty Level: Moderately Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 1,980 meters
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Situated in the northeast side of Pokhara, Sikles is the beautiful village of Gurung community. In fact, it is the least explored area and one of the biggest and earliest Gurung settlements. It is inhabited mostly by the ex-Gurkhas.
The Sikles trail takes you through the Rhododendron forests, oak forests, terraced farmlands, and beautiful villages. Furthermore, it is also famous for birdwatching and its rich authentic culture such as Rodhi ghar.
Highlights
- Awesome views of Annapurna ranges, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiuchuli, Lamjung Himal, and many more.
- Observe the making of local handmade crafts.
- Get close-up experience of Gurung culture and traditions.
Panchase Trek (2 to 3 Days)
(Machhapuchhre view)
- Starting Point: Kande
- Difficulty Level: Moderately Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 2,500 meters at Panchase Hill
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Panchase trek is one of the short and sweet treks in Pokhara which takes you through the rural-cultural off the beaten tracks. You will start this trek after boating across the Phewa Lake.
The whole journey of the trek is quite fascinating with several famous spots that ends in the common point of five hills. Hence, Panchase trek is a complete package of culture and nature. Furthermore, it is also a comfortable trek that you can enjoy along with your family members of all age groups.
Highlights
- Impressive view of Dhaularigi, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal and Manaslu.
- Mesmerising sunrise and sunset views.
- Explore the temple of Sidda Baba, Dharmasala, Mahadev, and Buddha.
- Visit Pancsila Lake and Barah temple.
- Various attraction sites such as Phewa Lake and World Peace Pagoda.
Muldai View Trek (5 Days)
(Mount Dhaulagiri)
- Starting Point: Kimche
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Maximum Elevation: 3,636 meters at Muldai View Point
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Muldai Trek gives you off-the-path experience along the rhododendron forests, lush vegetation, and forests. One of the major destination during the journey is Ghandruk village from which it takes you through Tadapani, Dobato, and then to your actual destination.
It is immensely popular for a quick break in the laps of the Himalayas. Additionally, you can also get an opportunity to explore Poon Hill view point for sunrise and sunset views.
Highlights
- Enjoy 360-degree views of the Himalayas like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri range, Lamjung, Fishtail, and Gangapurna.
- Visit Ghandruk and get warm welcome.
- Pass through annapurna Conservation Point.
Australian Camp Trek (2 Days)
(Annapurna South mt)
- Starting Point: Kande
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 2060 meters
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
It is often called the “hidden jem of Nepal” as it is less explored that takes you through the Annapurna foothills. Not to mention, it is easily accessible and can be accomplished in a single day.
Additionally, it is one of the shortest trek in the outskirts of Pokhara and also passes through the Dhampus Village. During the journey, you will come across several agricultural areas and farm houses.
Altogether, it is a balanced mix of lush greenery, snow-capped mountains, and culturally rich villages. Today, it is also a famous spot for picnic and outings.
Highlights
- Enjoy the views of Annapurna massifs, Hiuchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
- Mesmerising sunset and sunrise views.
- Explore Dhampus.
Mohare Danda Trek (7 Days)
(View of Mt Annapurna from Mohare Danda)
- Starting Point: Goleswor
- Difficulty Level: Moderately Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 3,300 meters at Mohare Danda
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
Located in the outskirts of Pokhara, Mohare Danda represents remote village lifestyle and culture in one piece. Also, as it is one of the least explored trail, it is perfect for those travelers who does not want crowds.
This particular hill is a hidden scenic place that is home to Magar and Poon communities. It is recommended to every traveler who wishes to experience local lifestyle up close.
Highlights
- Panorama of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu Himalayas.
- Stunning sunrise and sunset view from Mohare Danda.
- Pass through remote farmland, a paper-making plant, a local cheese factory, forests, and orchards.
Khopra Danda Trek (6 Days)
(Khopra Danda)
- Starting Point: Nayapul
- Difficulty Level: Moderately Easy
- Maximum Elevation: 3,660 meters at Khopra Danda
- Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)
This trek takes you to the wild and remote viewpoint for Ananpurna ranges. Initially, it follows the trail of Annapurna Base Camp which after Tadapani ventures into the unexplored areas of the region.
Furthermore, this trail do not have crowds so it is perfect for isolated time.
Highlights
- Enjoy majestic views of Nilgiris, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
- Walk through open alpine pastures, oak and rhododendron forests.
- Explore Gurung and Magar settlements.
- Visit Khayer Lake.
Conclusion
Similar to the list we have presented, there are many more that Nepal has to offer. Whether be it for a single day, a month-long, for families, for independent travel, adventure, or easy ones, you can find it all!
FAQs
Which seasons are regarded as the best for short treks in Nepal?
To avoid crowds it is recommended to travel during the shoulder season.
This is the latter part of September and March/April, with a good chance of pleasant weather and clear mountain views. Additionally, the flowers are blooming and the temperature is perfect for outdoor.
