Sarangkot Day Hike - Breathtaking Views of the Himalayas
Highlights
- Enjoy the beautiful views of the Annapurna hills comprising the Machapuchare peak and Aka Fish-Tail.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Phewa Lake and the beautiful valley below in Pokhara.
- This is the opportunity to cross nice farmlands, forests, and small towns.
- Live among the ordinary Nepalese and have casual conversations with Nepalese friends.
- Have a mouth-watering lunch of Nepali food in a nearby restaurant in wonderful surroundings.
- Unveil the nature pristine beauty and backwoods calmness of Nepal.
- Capture picture memories of your tour as you enjoy scenic mountain vistas of the trail.
One of Pokhara's easiest and most rewarding day hikes is the day hike up to Sarangkot. At just under 6 miles round trip with about 1500 feet of elevation gain, this hike is suitable for all fitness levels and rewards you with jaw-dropping views of the Annapurna Himalayas.
To start the hike, take a taxi from Pokhara to Sarangkot - about a 30-minute ride. The trail begins just outside the village. As you go up the winding dirt path, you'll pass through rhododendron forests and small hamlets. Stop for a break at one of the tea houses to recharge.
About 2 to 3 hours from the start, you'll reach the summit of Sarangkot at just over 5,000 feet. This is the hike's highlight, with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks surrounding Pokhara Valley. Gaze at the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. On a clear day, you may even spot Dhaulagiri, the seventh-highest mountain in the world.
As the sun begins to set over the Himalayas, witness one of Nepal's most stunning sunsets. The golden light illuminates the mountains, reflecting off the surface of Phewa Lake below. For the descent, you can retrace your steps or take the quicker gravel road path down to Pokhara, which takes about an hour.
Whether you come for the sunrise or sunset, the Sarangkot day hike offers an easy escape from Pokhara into the mountains. The dazzling views from the top will leave you in awe of the natural beauty surrounding this lakeside city. Don't miss this opportunity for a picturesque Himalayan adventure.
Peace Pagoda Hike - Iconic Landmark Above Phewa Lake
Highlights
- Enjoy deep breaths in the fresh atmosphere.
- Take a 4-hour walk in Pokhara and reach peaceful stupas located on top.
- Clean a unified vision of Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake, and witness Annapurna and Fishtail Mountain.
- Get across the Phewa Lake with an adventurous journey on a boat with a picturesque view on your way.
The Peace Pagoda Hike offers stunning views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna Range. This 2.5 km hike starts near the Fewa Lake and takes you up to the Peace Pagoda, a massive Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara.
As you hike up the hill, you'll pass through a forest that provides shade from the sun. The trail is well-maintained but has steep sections, so take your time. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the lake, mountains, and Pokhara Valley. The pagoda itself is an impressive monument, standing over 100 feet high.
Around the Peace Pagoda are gardens, a monastery, and seating areas where you can rest and soak in the scenery. This is a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the lake and mountains. For the best views, try to time your hike so you reach the top just before sunset.
On the way down, walk slowly and be careful, especially if it's getting dark. The trail can be slippery, so wear proper hiking shoes with good grip.
The Peace Pagoda Hike is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels since the distance is short. However, the steep climb may challenge some. Take your time and enjoy this peaceful escape from the city below. The scenic destination at the top makes the effort well worth it.
This iconic landmark and hike should not be missed when visiting Pokhara. The Peace Pagoda offers a glimpse into the region's Buddhist heritage and a panorama that will leave you in awe. Head to the pagoda for a culturally enriching experience and naturally beautiful surroundings.
Australian Camp: Lakeside Trail Through Forest
Highlights
- Unveil the picturesque Nature of the Annapurna area bordered by stunning Annapurna south and Himchuli summits.
- Go to traditional villages and engage in conversations with warm-hearted neighbors to better appreciate the way of life.
- Walk and trek through lush forests and rolling hills against breathtaking scenery.
- Take part in an easy trail that can fit everyone.
- Rise very early and enjoy a spectacular sunrise from an amazing vantage point.
- Leave the buzzing chaos of Pokhara for the quiet calmness of the Annapurnas.
Australian Camp is the first stop on most of the Trekking trails around the Annapurna Conservation Area and is one of the best hikes in Pokhara. This Camp is the starting point for many famous trekking destination trials like “The Mardi Himal Trek” and “The Annapurna Base Camp Trek,” which has a shortcut to them.
The hike to Australian Camp is simple. The Camp also sits upon a hill just above Kande. The Camp is sometimes reached within 2 to 2.5 hours when you begin to walk above the trees up the hill along stone-furnished staircases that are just awesome in the wild; the fun in hiking starts.
When you hike late in the evening, you will likely encounter some flowering gloom around the path at night. For any hiker around this trail, it is a new experience. In the 90s, Australian Camp was meant for tourists camping.
The trekking and hiking trail was only available from Dhampus village. Therefore, the peace of this place made it a spot to rest for tourists visiting Tramping the Annapurna Base Camp. At that time, the Austrian people were the first to travel to this place. It was later called the Australian Camp by locals.
This hiking trail offers the incredible vistas of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhare mountain ranges and the unspoiled natural tranquility of the forest environment. There is nothing hard about hiking here; you can meet many locals and travelers along the trail. It is a paradise for any hiker or trekker visiting the Annapurna circuit regarding Australian Camp.
The Camp has all the amenities and facilities for a good night’s stay. The local food is so tasty, and the locals are very hospitable. A night stay at the Australian Camp is highly recommended. The fact is that “You won’t believe the incredible, moving sight of the dawn glow the next day.
In that sense, the sight of sunrays with full strength illuminating the topmost part of the Annapurna Mountain range captures one’s attention. In the morning, one can walk down the valley of cold wind with a silent wilderness surrounding one’s Camp. This allows you to hike in the morning and still in the evening.
The easy hike is an introduction to the natural surroundings of Pokhara minus the challenges of higher altitude treks. It’s suitable for all hikers, with shady forests and mountain overlooks looking down on a pretty lake. If you only took a short walk or made a day trip on the side trails, you would find the Australian Camp a lovely escape into freedom.
Panchase Trek - Diverse Landscapes and Hilltop Views
Highlights
- Try one of Nepal’s easier walks, ideal for families or people with less fitness.
- See into the highs like Dhaulagiri, Lamjung, Machhapuchhare, and Manalsu
- One of the best views of the Annapurna Himal is at Summit Panchase Hill (2,500m).
- See the lifestyles of rural Nepalese people in their village, largely dominated by Gurungs and Brahmans.
Panchase Trek is relatively easier to hike and is a great introduction to trekking in the Annapurna region through scenic diverse landscapes. A two or four-day hike climbing to the summit of Panchase danda (2500 m), giving a 360° view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. This trek is moderately strenuous and requires no pre-acclimation days.
You will trek up through the forested jungles full of rhododendron trees, with patches of bamboo and grasslands. You will see some birds, monkeys, and other wild animals on your way here. During springtime, the forest trails turn colorful pink and red as rhododendrons blossom.
As you go upwards, you enter the woods, and grassy slopes and meadows replace them. From far in the background, you’ll catch the glinting peaks of the snow-clad mountains — a glimpse of the vista ahead. Finally, the last climb runs through the arid land with the stones, increasing your satisfaction upon reaching the summit.
This 2-4 trek is among Nepal’s easier treks and thus makes a good option for families, older adults, and tourists looking for a relaxed walk through Nature. The three or four-hour trekking each day allows one to take photos and catch a glimpse of the villagers’ lifestyle at the end-of-day village stops.
Highlights of this trek are the beautiful forest and the mountain view, which covers most of the area. Panchase has many diversified forests, most of which are classified as protected.
The area is also home to over a hundred orchid species – watch out for their gorgeous blossoms. There are also other smaller but significant tall mountains. A few include Machhappuchhara, Lamjung, and Gangapurna, among others. Some of these tall mountains are located near the trekking routes. For example, you can see the Dhaulagiri.
Kahun Danda Hike - Sweeping Views of Annapurna Range
Highlights
- Enjoy breathtaking viewpoints of the Himalayan mountain chain and abundant beautiful colors like golden yellow, greens, and creamy whiteness.
- In the spring, immerse yourselves in the blooming rhododendron-colored forest, thus creating a wonderful experience through Nature’s color palette.
- The warm welcome to local mountain communities as you go along.
- Unveil secret high mountain waters tucked away en route, offering serene repose amidst majestic Himalayan wilderness.
Kahun Danda walking is a short and quiet trek in Pokhara. The trek is rather unexplored and not congested as we pass through charming villages and woodlands dotted with blooms of Rhododendrons.
Kahuna Danda lies in the northeast part of Pokhara Valley and has a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and a wide sweep of view over Pokhara Valley.
It takes about one or two hours to walk, which is preferable for those interested in mountain villages, walking in Nature, and beautiful views of snow caps on the mountain peak.
The Kahun Danda trekking route is equally beautiful as peaceful stupa treks or sarangkot treks, which lie at higher altitudes than this trek location. The mountain trek involves sighting rural lifestyle, meeting locals, learning different cultures, marvelous sunrise and sunset, and most importantly, direct observation of the Annapurna mountain chain.
The 1,445-meter-high Kahun Danda lies on Pokhara’s northeast side. This is the best day hike in Pokhara, lasting usually three to four hours. The scenic vistas of Kahun Danda Hill, Pokhara Valley, and the Annapurna mountain range are also offered.
Also, there are bridges at Seti Power House, military barracks, villages with different cultures, and rhododendron flower-covered hills. The hiking trail is also open, with all other trees readily visible.
You climb to this hill and see the various tribes surrounding it. This amazing transformation of colors after the sun rises on the Annapurna is as inspiring as it is joyful to give a touch to one’s heart. It is an ideal site for a day hike.
Even those without climbing skills can take part in Kahun Danda hiking. The hikers explore the hills. The cultural societies typically grow up around the rural towns in most cases, and their visits could be useful.
The other feature is a view tower and a spectacular forest full of rhododendrons (national flowers) located on the north slope of Kahun Danda. Another view of the hill is Tiger Top, about 8 kilometers from Vijaypur, which has a small hotel and tea shop. It is the most suitable place to meditate.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
- Start your Hike from the lovely city of the lakes, Pokhara.
- Hike through the enchanting rhododendron, birch, and juniper woods.
- See the awe-inspiring sun rising on Poon Hill and have a panoramic view of Himalayan peaks.
- An overnight stay is possible in an average Magar village at Ghorepani.
- Experience the real cultural values of Ghandruk.
- It is a perfect trek fit for any trekkers with no regard given their age or origin.
- Refreshing, short trek with vibrant colors.
- No worries about the flight.
Ask any person, and the best short destination around Pokhara for hiking would invariably be Ghorepani Poonhill. For several decades, worldwide travelers have visited Ghorepani and Poon Hill, which are two separate locations.
It is ideal for local tourists on a short excursion high in the mountains. The walk to Ghorepani Poon Hill will pass by the well-populated settlements as well as the dense tropical forest. This hiking destination suits people of all ages since they will only scale a maximum height of 3,200m at Poonhill.
Traveling through Ghorepani, where the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups mostly inhabit them, is an exciting experience for travelers that will allow them to immerse themselves in Nepalese cultural grounds.
They also get to enjoy an uphill climb to Poon Hill with stunning vistas of Annapurna Himal and Macchapucchari, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Himchuli, and others. Secondly, the Sun's golden rays from rising to the time of its set in the Annapurna range cannot be explained by any words. Moreover, this stunning site can be easily accessed from Pokhara, making it attractive and perhaps the best hike in and around Pokhara.
Nayapul is where this three to four-day hike starts, an hour's journey from Pokhara. Then, you will take a crooked road passing through the dense forest of rhododendrons leading to Ghorepani, a small village at 2874 meters.
Leave early the next morning for a hike of about 45 minutes up to Poon Hill and witness a splendid sunrise across the Himalayas. There is golden light on the snowy peaks that envelop Machapuchare right before you. A point of view worth the pre-dawn wake-up call!!
You will continue descending further down to Tadapani and enjoy more mountain views. The next stop is Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal. Seeing the Stone Made house with a slate rooftop, one can infer the ancient rich culture of the Gurungs. Lastly, return to Nayapul, where you will finish this journey.
This trek is perfect for amateurs and families due to the maximum elevation being 3,210m at Poon Hill. Simple but comfy tea houses are offered along the way with food.
However, the only problem might be catching that early morning, before sunrise. The view, however, is worth every chill with this cold tea and coffee.
If you're interested in exploring more around Ghorepani Poonhill, look at the trips we offer below.
Dhampus Village Trek - Window to the Annapurnas
- It is an easy short hike good for people who have little time or are inexperienced trekkers.
- The experience of lively culture and warmth of local people in village settlements around the way.
- Bird-Watching and Wildlife Viewing Opportunities in the Regions Forests
- Scenic lunch break at the viewpoint, overlooking surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Get away from city life and enjoy tranquility amidst the tranquilness of nature in Nepal.
Dhampus is one of the places where one can enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna region through a day-tour trek. The best part of the Annapurna program is this tour, including all its high points.
The journey is about 30 minutes by car from Pokhara to Phedi, the village where it begins amidst luxuriant forest and terraced paddy fields, ending up at Dhampus, another beautiful village.
Dhampus village trek offers great scenes of the Annapurna ranges and Pokhara valley. The walk is fairly short (approx 3 hours), and it starts at Phedi, which can be reached by taxi (approx 30 min from Pokhara). Then, trek through dense forest on a ridgeline overlooking breathtaking scenery.
On your way up, you will come across Dhampus village, populated by the Gurungs and Brahmins. Have a rest break, then get Chiya (Nepali Tea) made by the neighboring people, who will also tell you about their customs.
You will reach Dhampush Pass summit, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Annapurna mountains. During such a day, Dhaulagiri is in 7th place on the list of the highest mountains in the world.
The best period for hiking is October to May since the skies will probably be clearest at that moment. The trail will be colored with the beautiful blooms of the rhododendrons starting in spring.
Then, soak up some amazing views and descend to Phedi via the same track. The climb is extremely easy, is suited for every kind of fitness, and presents an excellent opportunity to get a first idea about trekking in the Himalayas without climbing very high in the air.
You can make a day trip from Pokhara or spend the night in the teahouse at Dhampus village.
Hiking to Dhampus is easy, and one can make it out on a single day. This makes it a great experience for beginners/those with a day to spare. These peaks include Annapurna South, fishtail, and Hinchuli peaks.
The Dhampus trail takes trekkers through rich forests and terraces, where one is likely to see monkeys, birds, and even some leopards. You will also come across different villages on the journey through the forest and get acquainted with native people who live there and tell a story of their customs and traditions.
Annapurna Sanctuary
Highlights
- Spectacular views of Gangapurna, Annapurna I, III, Machhapuchhre, South Annapurn, Hiunchuli, and many others.
- Enjoy the beautiful landscapes around the Annapurna conservation area, extending from low farmlands in Pokhara to the rugged yet scenic terrains of the Annapurna base camp.
- The Mount Annapurna sanctuary has twenty-seven vegetable plants and over one hundred animal species.
- The beautiful panorama of sunrise and sunset over the lofty massif in the Annapurna area.
- Culture and hospitality of the Gurung, Thakali, and Magar communities.
This short trek to Annapurna Base Camp lasts six to fourteen days and is one of Pokhara's most wonderful short treks. If you have a limited time available but would still love to do an Annapurna Circuit Trek, this special itinerary is tailor-made for you.
A shorter ABC trek offers an opportunity for one to view the natural beauty that lies within the Annapurna region. The trekkers trek through some of the most amazing ABC trekking trails and passes. It is simply bliss to trek to the camp of gigantic Mt. Annapurna. You usually follow the trek path from Pokhara and walk along rhododendron forests towards Bamboo village before descending deeper into the gorge of Modi Khola river.
Similarly, you will stay at simple tea houses during this period, but you will have an opportunity to taste the Nepal dal bhat, rice, and lentil soup. The sacred pilgrimage site of Annapurna Base Camp is at the center of the sanctuary. Hindu pilgrims come here to pay tribute to the impressive south face of Annapurna I before embarking on the trekking. The place offers opportunities to relax, acclimatize, and absorb the tranquillity and views of the snow-capped peaks.
Moreover, The descent involves retracing your tracks to Pokhara, exhausted though full of lifelong memories gained during this trip into the Himalayas. There are incredible trials, different landscapes, glacial rivers, caves that you will find on the cliff-facing rocks, cascades of waterfalls through forest jungles, and more to your delight.
This route is naturally captivating and popular due to its cultural distinctiveness. In addition, you will see the cultures of the people and their traditional ways of living in the villages. Therefore, this shorter trekking ABC is more of a cultural tour among the Gurungs.
Anybody with a good body, physical fitness, and willpower can do this trekking exercise anytime, even during winter.
Naudanda Hike
Highlights
- Overlook of Annapurna massif and Pokhara valley.
- Short and easy hiking experience in the Himalayas
- Stroll around traditional villages and steps rice fields.
One of the best hiking trails surrounding Pokhara includes Naudanda, a brief hiking route that passes through Sarangkot. Local villages characterize Naudanda and, hence, appropriate sites to observe the local culture. It typically starts from the lakeside in Pokhara. In addition, you will enjoy an exceptional view of nearby mountain ranges in Pokhara. In particular, seeing Mount Annapurna, Mount Machhapuchhre, and Mount Dhaulagiri is awe-inspiring.
On the way to Naudanda via Sarangkot, there is a view of “Phewa Lake.”
You just have a feeling of tranquillity that Nature can provide when hiking around the forest route. Naudanda is one of the ideal places for Paragliding. Adventurous travel lovers can also book for an amazing paragliding.
You may also view how the Nepalese people do their farming using the traditional method because Naudanda has plenty of farm terrace lands.
Royal Trek
Highlights
- Panoramic views of mountain ranges, such as Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.
- Exotic flora and fauna
- Waterfalls, ponds, lakes, and view human settlements
- The breeding view of animals is sometimes seen in some seasons as well.
- Encountering some rituals, including the burning of sugarcane, worshipping the bonfire, etc., are among the festivities that one would experience if they happen to go there during the Shivaratri festival.
Among all these long trekking routes in Nepal, the Royal Trek has always been one of the shortest treks and is suitable to be followed by both beginner and expert trekkers with few days to spare.
Shrubs on Annapurna, Machapuchare, Hillside, Rice Terrace Hill, and others mark the trail.' It begins in Pokhara city with gorgeous lakes and ends at breathtaking Gurung villages.
The same path was also traversed by Their Highness Prince Charles and Mick Zigger, among others. Unlike normal towns, the hiking track has fewer people since many enjoy it when alone and appreciate the natural beauty in peace. The trek is a short and simple uphill, which passes through rural areas such as the villages.
During your walk in the rhododendron woods, you will enjoy magnificent views of the Himalayas. The beautiful view of Pokhara Valley, northern Annapurna reach, and Mt. Fishtail makes this trip almost stunning.
Additionally, one has to travel to several ethnic towns that are rich in diverse cultures. It’s an opportunity to work with them and gain insights into their lifestyles, traditional ceremonies, and daily activities. Therefore, people choose the Royal Trek because it is a real cultural experience with beautiful landscapes.
Final Say
Now that you've considered your options, you should wear hiking boots and embrace these short and easy hikes in and around Pokhara Valley. Such an easy hike around Pokhara is the perfect day trip into Nature.
The beautiful scenery and clean air will invigorate one's sense of discovery and give the body another boost. Just pick a trail and go; don’t overthink it. Begin with something simple, such as the Peace Pagoda trail, and progress to the Sarangkot if you grow more capable as time goes by. Whichever way you decide to use your spare time in Nature will never lead you wrong.
Adventure Altitude And Treks arrange for you to explore beautiful places in Nepal. For you, we have customized programs around the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Dolpo, and Manaslu regions.
The Annapurna region houses some of the best trekking packages. These include the ten best shortest trekking routes around Pokhara and its environs.
There are several other short easy treks in and around Pokhara for beginners. From a tourist point of view, Pokhara has been transformed quite much, but their way of living is based on trekking.
If you have a short excursion in Pokhara and want to make it extend, the Adventure Altitude Treks team can offer individualized trek packages. Some of the best-known treks in Nepal include:
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