Trekking in Pokhara Nepal, Best Routes, short treks & Hikes

Trekking in Pokhara, Nepal – Ultimate Guide to Trails and Tips

Pokhara is the ultimate gateway to some of Nepal’s most breathtaking treks. Nestled beside the serene Phewa Lake and under the shadow of the Annapurna range, Pokhara serves as the starting point for adventures ranging from epic multi-day expeditions to relaxing day hikes. In this guide, we at Mountain Eco Trails share our firsthand knowledge about trekking in Pokhara, Nepal.

We’ll highlight the best trekking routes around Pokhara (including famous routes like Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill), suggest convenient 3-day treks and day hikes, advise on the ideal seasons, and recommend child-friendly trails. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect Pokhara trekking experience – and we’ll be ready to help you make it happen!

Best Trekking Routes around Pokhara

The spectacular Annapurna region dominates Pokhara’s trekking scene. Here are some of the best trekking routes around Pokhara that we offer, each with its unique charm:

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek – 7 to 10 Days:

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is an iconic journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Starting from Nayapul (a short drive from Pokhara), this moderate trek leads you through terraced rice fields, dense rhododendron forests, and charming Gurung villages up to the Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater of soaring peaks. At 4,130 m (13,550 ft), Annapurna Base Camp rewards you with a 360° panorama of Himalayan giants, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). We offer the Annapurna Base Camp Trek package with a 10-day itinerary (standard route) or even a shorter 7-day option for those tight on time. It’s one of the most popular treks for good reason – relatively easier altitude gain, comfortable teahouses, natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, and unbeatable mountain views make this a must-do trek.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 4 to 6 Days

If you’re looking for a shorter trek with spectacular rewards, the Poon Hill trek is ideal. Ghorepani Poon Hill is often called the best short trek in Nepal. Over 3–6 days, you trek through vibrant villages (like Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk) and verdant forests to reach Poon Hill (3,210 m) – a famous pre-dawn viewpoint. At sunrise, you’ll witness the Himalayan panorama bathed in golden light, including Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range. The trek is relatively easy to moderate with no risk of altitude sickness, making it great for beginners or families. We usually run a 5-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara (with an option to do it in 4 days if you’re very short on time by taking a jeep partway). Along the way, you’ll enjoy Gurung hospitality in teahouses and perhaps a celebratory cup of masala tea as you soak in the views

Mardi Himal Trek – 4 to 7 Days 

The Mardi Himal trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region. Opened relatively recently, this trail takes you off the beaten path to the ridge line directly below Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The highest point is around 4,500 m at Mardi Himal Base Camp or viewpoint, offering stunning close-up views of Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Unlike the busier Annapurna Base Camp route, Mardi Himal sees fewer trekkers, giving it a peaceful wilderness feel. The trek can be done as a short 4-day trek from Pokhara (for example, driving to Kande and trekking via Australian Camp and Forest Camp up to High Camp and back) or a slightly longer 5–7 day itinerary via villages like Landruk and Sidhing. We love Mardi Himal for its dramatic ridge hiking and the way the landscape changes from lush forest to rugged high-altitude terrain in just a few days.

Mohare Danda Trek – 5 to 7 Days

Mohare Danda is a fantastic community eco-trail and a great alternative to the more crowded Poon Hill. Topping out at Mohare Danda (3,320 m), this trek is known for its quiet trails, community lodges, and support of local villages. Often called the Eco Community Lodge Trek, it passes through Magar and Gurung villages like Banskharka, Nangi, and Tikot. The sunrise and sunset from Mohare Hill are as breathtaking as Poon Hill’s, with panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges without the crowds. This moderate trek can be completed in about 5–7 days and is sometimes combined with Khopra Danda or Poon Hill for an extended route. We recommend the Mohare Danda Trek for trekkers who want an authentic cultural experience and to trek “off the beaten path.”

Khopra Danda (Khopra Ridge) Trek – 7 to 10 Days

For those wanting astounding views and a bit of adventure away from the main trails, the Khopra Danda trek is ideal. Khopra Ridge (about 3,660 m) offers a front-row seat to Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and more, arguably even closer than Poon Hill. The trek typically branches off the Ghorepani trail after Tadapani, leading you to the solitary ridge of Khopra with a community lodge perched atop. An optional day hike from Khopra takes you to the sacred Khayer Lake (4,500 m), a holy alpine lake, for those who want a challenging side trip. The itinerary usually takes about 9 days if you include Khayer Lake and ends by descending via villages like Swanta or linking to the Mohare Danda route. The Khopra Danda trek is moderately difficult (some steep ascents) but very rewarding – fewer tourists, wild yak pastures, and the sense of walking along a balcony in the sky. We offer this as a guided trek, ensuring you won’t get lost on the less-trodden paths.

Each of these treks has its allure. Whether you’re standing in the amphitheater of Annapurna Sanctuary, watching dawn break over Poon Hill, or walking through rhododendron forests on Mardi Himal’s ridge, trekking around Pokhara is a feast for the senses. We have guided countless trekkers on these routes, and our local expertise ensures you experience the best of Pokhara’s trekking while staying safe and comfortable.

3-Day Trekking Options Near Pokhara

Only have a long weekend or a few days to spare? Don’t worry – Pokhara offers several short treks that pack in great views in just 3 or 4 days. Here are some 3-day (and 2–4 day) trekking options near Pokhara that are perfect for those on a tight schedule or looking for a short adventure:

Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek (3–4 Days):

By slightly compressing the standard itinerary, it’s possible to trek to Poon Hill and back in as little as 3 days (though 4 is more comfortable). This usually involves a drive to Hile/Ulleri or Ghandruk to shave off walking time. You’ll still get to enjoy the famous sunrise at Poon Hill and trek through beautiful villages, but be prepared for longer hiking days if doing it in 3 days. (We offer a 4-day Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara for those who want a quick yet fulfilling trek.)

Mardi Himal Short Trek (4 Days):

Mardi Himal can be done in a 4-day whirlwind by starting from Kande (1 hour from Pokhara) and hiking to Australian Camp/Pothana on day 1, reaching High Camp by day 2, summiting the Mardi viewpoint early on day 3, and descending partway, then returning to Pokhara on day 4. This trek gives you a high-altitude experience and superb views of Fishtail in a short span. You can check our Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara for more details.

Royal Trek (3–4 Days):

The Royal Trek is one of the easiest treks starting from Pokhara, named after Prince Charles, who hiked this route in the 1980s. In about 3 days, you walk through the foothills east of Pokhara, passing Gurung villages like Kalikasthan, Syaklung, and Chisapani, with constant views of the Annapurnas, Fishtail, and even Manaslu on clear days. The trek ends near Begnas Lake, where you can drive back to Pokhara. With relatively low altitude (max ~1,700 m) and short daily walks, the Royal Trek is perfect for beginners and family groups.

Dhampus Village Trek (2–3 Days):

For a very short trek, Dhampus is a great choice. Typically done as an overnight trip (see Day Hikes below), you can extend it to 3 days by spending one night at Australian Base Camp and another night in Dhampus Village. This allows a more leisurely pace to enjoy local culture and mountain views. You’ll trek through forests and villages with constant views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. At only 1,700 m altitude, it’s an easy trek but incredibly rewarding for the time invested.

Ghandruk Loop (3 Days):

Ghandruk is a picturesque Gurung village in the Annapurna region that can be visited on a 3-day loop trek. One popular plan: Day 1, drive to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk; Day 2, explore Ghandruk and trek to Jhinu or Landruk; Day 3, trek down and drive back. Ghandruk offers a beautiful cultural experience with traditional houses and a small museum, and you’ll have superb close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre from the village. This trek is relatively easy and culturally rich.

These short treks are excellent for those who have limited time or want to experience trekking without committing to a longer expedition. Despite their duration, they still give you a taste of Himalayan scenery and local culture. We often get inquiries from travelers who have a few extra days in Pokhara and want to do a “mini-trek” – the above options are our go-to recommendations. Pro tip: Even on a 3-day trek, don’t rush too much. We plan our itineraries to ensure you acclimate (where needed) and have time to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

Day Hikes near Pokhara

Not everyone has multiple days to spare – and that’s okay! Pokhara is surrounded by hills and viewpoints that make for fantastic day hikes. If you’re short on time or prefer to return to your hotel by evening, consider these scenic day hikes near Pokhara:

1. Sarangkot Sunrise Hike: Sarangkot is a hill on the north side of Pokhara known for its panoramic sunrise views. You can drive up pre-dawn (or hike up in about 2 hours from Lakeside if you’re up for a workout) and then take a short 30-minute walk to the viewpoint. At 1,600 m, Sarangkot offers a stunning vista of the Annapurna range and Pokhara Valley below. It’s also famous for paragliding – you might see colorful paragliders taking off as the morning warms up. Many people do a combination: hike up for sunrise, then paraglide down! If you hike back down to Pokhara through local villages, it’s a great half-day adventure.
2. World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) Hike: The Peace Pagoda is a shining white stupa located on a ridge south of Phewa Lake. To hike there, you can either cross the lake by boat and climb up (~1.5 hours) or drive partway to the trailhead. The trail goes through a forest and small villages before reaching the stupa. From the top, you’ll enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and panoramic views of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurnas. It’s an achievable walk for most people (even families with kids) and one of the most popular day outings in Pokhara. Sunset from the Peace Pagoda is gorgeous as well.
3. Dhampus Village & Australian Base Camp (Day Trip): As mentioned earlier, Dhampus is often an overnight trek, but it can be done as a long day hike if you’re fit and start early. Usually, we’d drive to Kande in the morning, hike about 2 hours up to Australian Base Camp (2000 m) for tea and mountain views, then continue about 1.5 hours to Dhampus Village (1650 m) for lunch. After enjoying the village and Himalayan vistas (Annapurna South, Fishtail, etc.), you descend about 2 hours to Phedi, where a vehicle can bring you back to Pokhara. It’s a full-day hike but rewarding – you experience a complete trek (ascend, ridge walk, village life, descend) in one day!
4. Naudanda to Sarangkot Ridge Walk: Another lovely day hike is to drive to Naudanda (a ridge to the west of Pokhara) and then hike along the ridgeline to Sarangkot. “Naudanda” literally means “nine hills” in Nepali, and the trail offers continuous views of the Annapurna range on one side and scenic hills and villages on the other. The walk takes about 3–4 hours and is relatively flat and easy. You can finish at Sarangkot and catch a ride back down, or hike down via a staircase trail to Lakeside.
5. Begnas Lake and Sundari Danda Hike: For a quieter experience away from the main tourist areas, head to Begnas Lake (about 30 30-minute drive from Pokhara). From there, you can hike up to Sundari Danda or other surrounding hills for views of the twin lakes (Begnas and Rupa) and the mountains. This area is less developed, so it’s a peaceful nature walk through the forest and rural settlements. You could even do a loop around Begnas and Rupa Lake if you’re adventurous, or simply enjoy a boat ride after a short hike.

These day hikes are flexible and can often be done without a guide, but going with a guide can enrich the experience (you’ll learn about the local culture, flora, and fauna). At Mountain Eco Trails, we organize guided day hikes for individuals or groups – we handle transportation, show you the best viewpoints, and bring along plenty of local insight. Day hikes near Pokhara are perfect as warm-up acclimatization for longer treks or as standalone activities if you have a free day in your itinerary.

Best Time for Trekking in Pokhara

One of the most common questions we get is: “When is the best time for trekking in Pokhara and the Annapurna region?” Pokhara’s treks are accessible year-round, but each season has its pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan:

• Autumn (September to November): This is hands-down the best trekking season in Nepal, including Pokhara treks. After the monsoon rains, the skies clear up and the mountain views are at their sharpest. Temperatures in autumn are moderate (warm days, cool nights), and the trails are generally dry. In October, the festive atmosphere in Nepal (with festivals like Dashain and Tihar) adds cultural vibrancy to your experience. The only downside is that it’s the most popular season – expect more fellow trekkers on the trails and make sure to book teahouses and guides in advance. Autumn is ideal for all treks, from high-altitude routes like Annapurna Base Camp to short hikes like Poon Hill.
• Spring (March to May): Spring is the second most popular trekking season around Pokhara. The weather starts warming up after winter, and the rhododendron forests burst into bloom – hillsides are painted red, pink, and purple with Nepal’s national flower, especially in April. The mountain views are generally clear, though late spring (May) can become hazy as pre-monsoon moisture increases. Temperatures are very pleasant, even at higher elevations (just below freezing at ABC in early spring nights, and mild in the day). Spring is an excellent time for treks like Mardi Himal or Mohare Danda, where rhododendron blooms enhance the scenery. It’s also slightly less crowded than autumn, though still busy on popular routes.

Verdict: The best time for trekking in Pokhara is generally Autumn (Sept-Nov) for clear skies and ideal weather, closely followed by Spring (Mar-May) for blooming forests and good conditions. Winter is great for lower treks if you can handle the cold, and the monsoon is least ideal, except for specific areas.

The Best Child-Friendly Treks around Pokhara

Trekking isn’t only for hardcore adventurers – it can be a wonderful family activity as well. We often get families with children asking us which Pokhara treks are suitable for kids. The good news is that there are several child-friendly treks around Pokhara that we can recommend. These treks have manageable distances, safer trails, and lots of interesting things to see that can keep children engaged:

Dhampus Village / Australian Camp Trek: As mentioned earlier, the overnight hike to Dhampus (via Australian Base Camp) is excellent for families. It’s short (2 days, or extend to 3 days at most), stays at low altitude (~1700–2000 m), and has comfortable lodges. Kids love the wide grassy area at Australian Camp where they can run around, and the village experience in Dhampus, where they might meet local children or see farm animals. The hike is not too steep, and even younger kids (5-6 years old) have completed it with some help. Our Dhampus Village Hike is explicitly noted to be suitable for any age group – “kids, families, or couples”. We ensure the pace is easy and include plenty of rest (and snack) stops. The reward – views of snowy peaks like Machhapuchhre – will awe both you and your children.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: Surprised? Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can be child-friendly if done right. We recommend this for slightly older children (perhaps age 8+). The trail has a lot of steps (notably the Ulleri stone staircase of ~3,000 steps), but kids are often more resilient than adults on those if they take their time! We’ve had families do Poon Hill successfully – the kids particularly enjoy spotting monkeys in the forest, playing with other trekkers’ dogs, or learning a bit of Nepali from our guides. Reaching Poon Hill viewpoint at sunrise can be a proud moment for your little trekkers. The key is to allow an extra day or two compared to standard itineraries, so it’s a leisurely pace.

Royal Trek: The Royal Trek’s gentle terrain and shorter days make it very suitable for families and even grandparents. There are no extreme ascents or descents, and maximum elevations are quite low. It’s a cultural trek too – passing through villages where children can interact with local kids, perhaps play a game of football in a schoolyard, or learn a Nepali song. Because the trek is only 3-4 days, it doesn’t test young attention spans too much, and there’s always the enticement of reaching Begnas Lake at the end for a cooling splash or boat ride.

Mohare Danda Community Trek: Mohare Danda is often marketed as a family-friendly eco trek. The community homestay aspect can be enriching for children, spending nights in village homestays or community lodges, eating local organic food, maybe even helping to milk a buffalo or learn to cook a Nepali dish! The trek is moderate and reaches 3,300 m, so we’d suggest it for families with older kids or teens who can handle about a week of walking. The effort is rewarded with phenomenal sunrise views at Mohare Danda and potentially a detour to Poon Hill too (some itineraries include both). The trails are less crowded, meaning you have flexibility and tranquility, which can be less stressful when trekking with kids.

Pokhara Day Hikes: Don’t forget, if multi-day treks feel daunting with very young children, you can still enjoy nature through day hikes. For example, you can take a kid-friendly hike up to the Peace Pagoda or through the forests of the Panchase area and return to Pokhara by evening. We’ve arranged custom day hikes with treasure-hunt themes for kids or nature bingo to keep them excited. A stroll along the ridges around Sarangkot could even be done with a baby in a carrier. The options are endless, and as locals, we know many secret spots that kids love (like small waterfalls or safe view rocks to climb on).

Tips for trekking with children: We (Mountain Eco Trails guides) take special care of our junior trekkers. The key is to keep the trekking days short and flexible. We involve kids in bird-watching, identifying animal tracks, or teaching them Nepali words to make each day fun. Always pack plenty of snacks, some warm layers (children can get cold faster), and perhaps a favorite small toy/book for downtime. Our guides are always ready with a helping hand or even a piggy-back ride if a child is too tired. With the right mindset, trekking as a family can be incredibly rewarding – it creates shared memories in the great outdoors that you’ll cherish forever. And seeing the look of wonder in a child’s eyes as they gaze at their first snow-capped mountain or realize they hiked up “a big hill” all by themselves is priceless!

(Need advice on a specific trek’s suitability for your child? Feel free to contact us – we’ll give honest guidance on which route to choose and how to plan it via WhatsApp at +9779849790153)

FAQs – Trekking in Pokhara, Nepal

When is the best time to go trekking in Pokhara?

The best time is generally Autumn (September–November) and Spring (March–May). During these seasons, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and temperatures are moderate, perfect for mountain views and comfortable hiking. Autumn offers crisp air and post-monsoon clarity (many consider October the ultimate month for trekking). Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and longer daylight hours.

Do I need permits for trekking around Pokhara?

Yes. Most treks in the Pokhara/Annapurna region require two main permits: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card. ACAP helps fund conservation projects and local communities, while TIMS is for trekkers’ safety registration. If you trek with us, we arrange these permits for you in advance.

Are treks around Pokhara suitable for beginners?

Absolutely – there are treks for all experience levels. If you’re a first-time trekker, routes like Ghorepani Poon Hill or the Dhampus trek are excellent choices, as they are shorter and less intense. Poon Hill, for example, has a max altitude of 3,210 m and is often dubbed a “beginner’s trek” since it’s easier than high mountain treks like the Annapurna Circuit. The Mardi Himal trek and Mohare Danda trek are slightly more challenging than Poon Hill but still manageable for fit beginners, especially with guided support.

Can I trek in Pokhara with children?

Yes, you can! Family trekking is becoming increasingly popular in Nepal, and Pokhara is a great region for it. As discussed in our child-friendly treks section, easier treks like Dhampus/Australian Camp, Royal Trek, or even Ghandruk Loop are wonderful for kids.

What is the shortest trek from Pokhara?

The shortest treks from Pokhara are the Poon Hill Trek 3 Days, the Mardi Himal Trek, the Australian Base Camp Trek, and the Dhampus Village Trek.

Do I need a guide or porter for trekking in Pokhara?

Hiring a guide or a porter is mandatory in Nepal. As of 2023, the Nepal Government and Tourism Board have announced that international and domestic tourists must hire a trekking guide in Nepal for safety reasons. Moreover, our guides add a lot of value: they’ll explain the local culture, help if any minor issues arise (like blisters or a sudden rainstorm), and act as a bridge when interacting with locals. Hiring a porter is a great idea if you want to trek comfortably – they can carry your heavy bag, leaving you with just a small daypack. This can make a huge difference in your enjoyment, especially on longer treks or if you’re trekking with kids.

What should I pack for trekking around Pokhara?

Packing wisely is crucial for a successful trek. Essentials include: good trekking boots (broken-in, for ankle support on rough trails), layered clothing (base t-shirts, insulating layer like a fleece, and a waterproof/windproof jacket), and trekking pants (plus maybe shorts for lower altitudes/hot days). For higher treks or colder months, bring a warm hat, gloves, and a down jacket. Other important items: a reusable water bottle (water sources are available, and we encourage using purification or boiled water to reduce plastic), a sun hat, sunscreen (the sun is strong at altitude), sunglasses, and a basic first aid kit (with band-aids, blister care, pain relievers, any personal meds). Don’t forget a headlamp (useful in lodges at night or early morning starts), a rain poncho or jacket (weather can be unpredictable), and a camera to capture the incredible scenery.

Conclusion

Trekking in Pokhara, Nepal, is an experience that stays with you forever. Few places in the world offer such a range of treks in one region – from gentle village walks to demanding high mountain journeys. Whether you dream of standing in the Annapurna Sanctuary surrounded by soaring peaks or simply want to enjoy a mellow hike through terraced hills with your family, Pokhara has it all.

At Mountain Eco Trails, we’re passionate about sharing these Himalayan wonders with you. We’ve curated eco-friendly trekking packages that immerse you in nature and culture, all while prioritizing your safety and comfort. Our first-hand knowledge (as local guides born and raised in these mountains) means we don’t just show you the trail – we introduce you to the people, the traditions, and the little surprises along the way (perhaps a hidden viewpoint or a local festival in a village) that turn a trek into an unforgettable adventure. Reach out to us via email of WhatsApp us at +9779849790153.