Reason to hike around Pokhara Valley

There might be various reasons for hiking in Pokhara as it is the most pleasant and easy walking. Hiking around Pokhara Valley, the trail follows the green hills, beautiful landscapes of fields, and many friendly people of different ethnic groups. The reasons to hike around Pokhara Valley may include:

1. Suitable for all ages

Hiking around Pokhara valley doesn’t go up to higher altitudes than 2,500 meters above sea level which makes the hiking activities suitable for all age groups.

Even if the trail doesn’t go at higher elevations - hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking mountain views, terraced fields, different mountain villages, and rhododendron forests.

Pokhara – a land of lakes and adventures is a home for amusements and the valley is surrounded by hillocks on all sides. The place has all types of hiking options ranging from beginners to pro trekkers, private family hikes to big groups short to long, and whichever hike you choose, you will have no less wonder and fun while hiking or trekking. Doesn’t matter which age group you are, you will be amazed by the stunning beauty of the city of Queen – Pokhara.

2. Stunning view from the hilltop

Hilltop in Pokhara provides an opportunity for hiking for hikers and offers magical views of valleys, villages, terraced fields, rivers as well as mountains and sunrise or sunset views. Sarangkot, Rupakot, and Begnaskot are some of the popular hill stations of Pokhara that provide a great hiking trail and a scene beyond the limit.

You will get the pleasure of an eye as you can panoramic beauty of mountain ranges like Annapurna and Machhapuchchhre as well as the stunning views of Pokhara valley, lakes, rivers, and other hill stations.

3. Great Himalaya experience

Pokhara is the most famous tourist destination and heavenly gateway to different treks. Since the Pokhara is in proximity to the Himalayas, you will observe close-up views of the Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchchhre, and Annapurna ranges.

At the bases of the Himalayas, there are lots of mountain villages inhabited by the ethnic group Gurung and Magar communities people. You will get to explore the traditions and cultures of those villages and get a chance to taste the local cuisines made by the local people of mountain villages.

Besides this, most of your trekking or hiking activities lead you through the mountain villages of Pokhara therefore you will get a memorable lifetime experience around the Himalayas in Pokhara.

4. Get connected with locals

Pokhara also receives the most number of tourists seeking adventurous trips like hiking and trekking. People of Pokhara respect and treat all the guests like gods. The friendly behavior of the local people of Pokhara pleased the guest every time.

If you are hiking or trekking around the Pokhara Valley, feel free to talk with the local people as they are very friendly. Throughout the hiking trail, you can make lots of friends or build friendly relations with the local people of the Pokhara.

Getting connected with the local people will provide you with good hospitality, as well as your trip, will be memorable and joyful.

5. Learn about Unique cultures and local's lifestyles

Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal inhabited by ethnic groups of different communities. But mostly in the villages of Pokhara, the major ethnic group is Gurung. They are always ready to warmly welcome all the tourists in their village.

You will get to explore the unique culture and lifestyle followed in the Pokhara Valley. You will be passing through different villages and you will get a chance to enjoy and observe the local culture and traditions of the locals in each village.

You will discover the variety of cultures and traditions followed in Pokhara by the different types of people of different ethnic groups.

6. Staying healthy

Going ups and down improves the physical condition drastically of a person. Hiking not only improves overall health and fitness but lengthens and improves the quality of our lives. Walking is one of the lowest-impact sports around.

This means that while you derive all the cardiovascular benefits of other aerobic activities. Walking around nature by observing different scenes with a minimum of stress, strain, and pounding your body as well as keeping your body calm.

Hiking activity reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It also helps to control weight, reduces the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and keeps your body healthy.

7. Make a strong bond with hiking friends

The feeling of having achieved something as a team is incredible and the sense of satisfaction, peace, and joy that you experience from hiking is almost indescribable.

hroughout the hiking trail, you will meet a lot of friends who are enjoying nature or if you are hiking with your closest friends then it will make your bond even stronger.

You will be sharing a hiking trail and spending all the time together with your dear ones. You will be having a lot of fun and have memorable moments to be remembered for your lifetime. Therefore, hiking with friends and sharing the experience can bring you closer together to form stronger bonds and create lasting memories.

8. Amazing sunrise and sunset view

The geographical features of Pokhara provide lots of hiking trails for the hikers at the hill station. There are many hill stations from where stunning views of mountains and Pokhara Valley can be seen. Despite that, the hill stations are also famous for breathtaking sunrise and sunset view over the Himalayas.

After hiking for a day and at last, enjoying the stunning view of the sunset is a perfect way to calm your body and call it for a day, or starting your next day with a magical morning view of sunrise will make you please the whole day. The places recommended for the best sunrise views are Sarangkot hill station, World Peace Pagoda, Dhampus, Australian Camp, and Kahun Danda.

9. Stay connected with nature

On a hiking trail, nature is all around us. Connect with nature using your all senses so that you can enjoy the natural surroundings from the heart. People with a great connection to nature are more likely to think positively about the environment, wildlife, and habitats. Nature helps you to keep your body calm, positive, and feeling towards being a responsible hiker.

You will get to know more about nature and enjoy the natural scenic beauty in peace. Moreover, hiking around the fresh air, hearing the birds sing, smelling the forests, and viewing mountain vistas and colorful wildflowers will bring joy to your hiking as well as it will make your mind refreshed.

Best hiking hills around Pokhara

Sarangkot Hiking Hills 

Sarangkot Hill station is the most popular hill station and also the best day hiking route as well as a viewpoint nearby Pokhara city. There is a view tower at the top of the hill to get the best view of Pokhara Valley and tea houses for refreshment after hiking.

Average hiking of 4-5 hours a day is enough for the Sarangkot from the lakeside. Spectacular sunrise and sunset views and a great paragliding spot make Sarangkot one of the best hiking trails around Pokhara Valley. The minimum altitude is 850 meters and the maximum altitude is 1,550 meters above sea level. Related tour for Saranagkot by Mountain Bike

Mardi Himal Hike

The hike is the perfect hiking place for those who enjoy admiring the gift of mother nature in solitude. The trail is rich in diversity that passes through rocky ridges and dense forest areas with magnificent views of mountain vistas.

Traveling through the remote places around pristine nature and interacting with the locals will make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. The magical view of sunrise over the Annapurna range and Machhapuchchhre from a high camp are outstanding.

Australian Camp Hill

Australian Camp is located in the west of Pokhara Valley in the lap of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), It is also the best place to see the Annapurna Rages and Pokhara Valley from the top of the hill station.

It is easily assessable from Pokhara with a few hours of hiking from Kande through the beautiful forest. It is also the rest point for Mardi Trek. Related tour for Australian Camp by Mountain Bike

Naudanda Hills

Naudanda is a small village in the Kaski district and the route is followed through Sarangkot. The trail is one of the best places for experiencing the rural life of Nepal as well as it is famous for mountain views, Phewa Lake, Pokhara Valley, paragliding, and high hill terrace farming.

The place is located at an elevation of 1600 meters above sea level. It is a Gurung village where you can get insights into typical lifestyles and mixed cultures of different groups of people. The classic panorama of the Himalayas in the clear morning is the best reward of this place after a day hike.

Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp is the best destination to have views of the mountains as well as to do something adventurous in your life. The trail passes through the beautiful rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and terraces of rice paddies while climbing to Annapurna Base Camp at an altitude of 4,100 meters.

The view of the highest peaks such as Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchchhre, and Hiunchuli is amazing. You will be passing through different mountain villages so you will get great hospitality from the local people as well a bath at natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda will make your body refreshed.

Khopra Danda Hike

Khopra Danda hiking trail is a newly opened hiking trail in the Annapurna region. The Khopra Danda lies at an elevation of 3,460 meters above sea level. The hiking trail passes through traditional villages, terraced farms, and amazing mountain peaks Ghorepani Poonhill Poonhill in the Annapurna region.

From the main viewpoint, you can get a view of the stunning Himalayan panorama of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna massif (I, II, III, and south), Hiunchuli, Machhapuchchhre, Lamjung Himal, and Nilgiri. The hike will cover the natural and scenic beauty of Ghandruk village and sunrise views from Poonhill.

Best Hiking Around Pokhara Valley

Pokhara is the number one destination for adventure and pleasure and is a gateway to most of the heavenly trekking trails of Nepal. The city is full of greenery and views of a spectacular panoramic view of the Annapurna massif Himalayan peaks.

Hillocks surround the valley and open for different adventurous walks such as trekking and hiking. All these treks can be done for the whole year with family as well as groups.  Here are some of the best hiking trails around the Pokhara Valley.

1. Sarangkot Hiking

Sarangkot is one of the most popular hill stations in Pokhara from where you can enjoy the great view of Pokhara valley, Phewa Lake, unlimited green hills, and the magnificent view of the mountains. It lies at an elevation of 1,600 meters above sea level.

It is the most popular because of the view of sunrise and sunset. The hike offers majestic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu range and also gives you a beautiful view of Phewa Lake and Pokhara Valley.

Sarangkot is the spot where paragliders take off, so you can see the number of colorful gliders floating in the skies between the hills and the lakes. You can finish off your hike after reaching Sarangkot which requires a

1-day hike but there is also an option of a Naudanda hike which may sum up 2 more days, which makes 3 days hike. This hike is a famous day hike in Pokhara with standard accommodations and great views.

The difficulty level of this hike is easy and the distance from Pokhara Lakeside to Sarangkot is 11.5 kilometers. To explore the best of Sarangkot, September to November is the best time for a Sarangkot hike. As Sarangkot Is best to visit in all seasons, morning or evening time is highly recommended. No certain permit but travel insurance is required for the Sarangkot hike.

2. Peace Pagoda hike

The World Peace Pagoda hike is an ideal half-day hike from Pokhara which lies on the top of the hill beside Phewa Lake. The stupa is situated at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level. The trail is filled with a great view of the mountain ranges around Pokhara. The World Peace Pagoda is ideal for watching the sunset view and you will be mesmerized by the evening view from the Peace Pagoda.

The hiking trail is a short walk along the forests and around the stupa hills. The final destination of this hike is a very short distance after crossing Phewa Lake. The hiking trail is very short and easy and you will have no difficulties even if it’s your first time. The hike can be finished within a single day as the distance between Pokhara lakeside and Peace Pagoda is 4.6 kilometers.

The place can be visited all around the year and all the seasons are the best time to visit the peace pagoda. You can hike around 4 pm to 5 pm the day whenever you want to hike around World Peace Pagoda. No permit is required for hiking around the World Peace Pagoda.

3. Kahun Danda Hike

Kahun Danda hiking is the best day hike in Pokhara, especially for those who have a short time to enjoy the natural beauty of Pokhara and the Annapurna Himalayas. Kahun Danda is situated at an elevation of 1,445 meters above sea level in the northeast of Pokhara.

The hiking trail passes through a newly built bridge at Seti Powerhouse, army barracks, traditional villages - rich in cultural diversity, and the hills covered with rhododendron forests along with waterfalls and picturesque mountain ranges. The place is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.

You will get a close-up view of the great Himalayan range and experience the local village life from the Kahun Danda one-day hike. The difficulty level is very easy as it lies at a very short distance from Pokhara.

The distance between Pokhara lakeside and Kahun Danda is 8.3 kilometers. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) is the best time to visit Kahun Danda. TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit are required for foreigners to hike around Kahun Danda.

4. Australian Camp and Dhampus hike

Dhampush is a small Gurung ethnic village that lies in the northern part of Pokhara Valley behind the terraced fields. The place is famous for the sunrise and sunset view as well as the village rewards you with an incredible view of the Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the World Peace Stupa.

The highest altitude of the Australian Camp and Dhampush hike is 2,060 meters above sea level at the Australian camp. The beautiful trail passes through lush forests and local villages and leads you up to an Australian camp.

The hiking trail has a mesmerizing view of the Annapurna and Machhapuchchhre mountain ranges along with the beauty of a quiet and peaceful forest atmosphere as well as you will have a memorable experience in the traditional Nepalese culture and cuisine.

The hike requires 4 to 5 days to complete. The distance between the Pokhara Lakeside and Dhampus is 25.4 kilometers. Autumn (October and November) and spring (March to May) is the best time to do the Australian Camp and Dhampus hike. TIMS card and ACAP permit are required for foreigners to hike around the Australian camp and Dhampus village.

5. Ghorepani Poon Hill Multiday hike

The most popular hiking or trekking trail around the Pokhara Valley is the Ghorepani Poonhill hike. The hike leads you up to an elevation of 3,210 meters above sea level and requires around 4 to 5 days to accomplish.

The hiking trail passes through the Gurung and Tamang’s charming villages, rhododendron forests, Oak forests full of birds, Greenhills, and diversified valleys including an exotic view of the Annapurna ranges.

The hike is most famous for the sunset and sunrise views seen from the hill station of Poonhill.

While returning, you can choose either to walk down through Ghandruk village or Dhampush village. You can enjoy the ethnic settlements and pristine nature on both ways of the hiking trail.

The hiking trail is leveled as a moderate hiking trail and the distance between Pokhara Lakeside and Ghorepani Poonhill is 33.6 kilometers. April to May and late September to early December is the best time to do the Ghorepani Poonhill hike. TIMS card, trekking permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit are required to hike around Ghorepani Poonhill.

6. Panchase hike

The multiday hike of Panchase begins with a boat ride across Phewa Lake to the trailhead. Panchase hike is one of the most popular hiking trails around Pokhara Valley that requires around 4 days to accomplish. ,500 meters above sea level. The maximum altitude of the Panchase hike is 2The hike offers significant mountain views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna range, Manaslu, Machhapuchchhre, Lamjung Himal, and Gangapurna.

The trail passes through the bio-diverse protected forest with a lot of beautiful flora and fauna within it. The difficulty level of the Panchase hike is graded as moderate and the distance between the Pokhara lakeside and Panchase hill is 31.9 kilometers. The best time to do the Panchase hill hike is from October to May. TIMS card and ACAP permit are required for foreigners to hike around Panchase Hill.

7. Ghandruk village multiday hike

Ghandruk is a popular model village that is promoting rural tourism with resources available at the local level. The highest elevation of Ghadruk village is 2,012 meters above sea level.

It is a typical Gurung village and a popular place for treks in the Annapurna region and also an easy gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Hiking around Ghandruk village is a multi-day hike that may require 3 to 4 days to accomplish.

The hike is suitable for all age groups as it is an easy hiking trail with no fear of altitude sickness. The hiking trail offers ideal rural scenes with farms, varying green forests, a diversity of birds, and the glittering mountain ranges of Annapurna and Machhapuchchhre. The distance between the Pokhara lakeside and Ghandruk village is 31.6 kilometers.

Hiking around Ghandruk village can be done all around the year but the months of June and July are considered the peak season to do Ghandruk village hikes. TIMS card and ACAP permit are required for foreigners to hike around Ghandruk village.

8. Sirubari Hiking

Sirubari is the perfect place to experience the old cultures, festivals, and lifestyles with natural beauty. The village lies at an elevation of 1,700 meters above sea level and is the beautiful land of the Gurung community. The hike requires 4 to 5 days to accomplish starting from Arjunchaupari, Pokhara. The hike offers fantastic views of the mountain peaks including Machhapuchchhre, Annapurna, and other peaks.

You will be rewarded a bonus with a magnificent landscape and the great hospitality of the locals. September to June is the best time for hiking around Sirubari village. The hiking trail difficulty level is graded as an easy hiking trail and the distance between the Sirubari and Pokhara lakeside is 44.7 kilometers. September to June is the best time to do the

Sirubari hike is the season with warm days and cool nights. TIMS card and ACAP permit are required for foreigners to hike around Sirubari village.

9. Sikles village hike

Sikles village is one of the largest Gurung villages situated northeast of Pokhara. The village is also called the major origin of the Gurung Community and offers a beautiful route for hiking activities. The village is situated at an altitude of 1,981 meters above sea level.

The trip offers the aesthetic beauty of nature and the culture of Nepal. The trail passes through the rhododendron forests, varied landscapes of terraced hills plain lowlands, and beautiful villages.

The hiking requires 3 to 4 days to accomplish with full of enjoyment at homestay observing the culture and tradition of the Gurung community. The trip is graded as an easy hiking trail and the distance between the Sikles village and Pokhara lakeside is 22 kilometers.

Even the sickle village doesn’t lie at higher altitudes hikers prefer to hike in the spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November) seasons. TIMS card and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit are required to hike around Sikles village.

10. Royal Hike

The Royal hiking trail is the most popular hiking or trekking trail that got its name after Prince Charles trekked through the route when he visited Nepal. The highest elevation is 1,730 meters above sea level at Kalikasthan temple on this hiking trip. It is a multi-day hike that may take around 4 days to complete.

The hike starts to the north of Pokhara Valley and passes through the Gurung villages and lovely terraced farmland and ends at Begnas Lake. The trail doesn’t go up higher altitudes but the magnificent views of the Annapurna mountain range can be observed from this hiking trail.

The trip is graded as an easy hiking trail and the hiking distance from Pokhara lakeside and the Kalikasthan temple is 8.1 kilometers. The autumn (September, October, and November) and spring (March, April, and May) is the best time to do the Royal trek or hike in Pokhara Valley. An Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit is required for this hike as the hike enters Annapurna Conservation Area.

11. Begnas Multiday hike

Begnas or Begnas Kot hiking is a popular multiday hike situated in the northeastern part of the Pokhara Valley. The highest altitude around Begnas Lake lies at 1,200 meters above sea level. The hike starts from the third largest lake in Nepal – Begnas Lake. The hiking trail is less explored and is a quiet and peaceful trail. Therefore, you will get the best of Begnas on your 4-day hiking trail.

The trail offers clear views of mountain ranges, Pokhara Valley, green hills, lakes, and mountain cultures and lifestyles. There is a Begnaskot Temple – a Hindu temple on the hilltop of this hiking trail.

This trek can do the whole year. The difficulty level of the Begnas hike is graded as an easy hiking trail suitable for all age groups as well as private families and groups. 

The distance between Pokhara Lakeside and Begnaskot is 15 kilometers. Begnas can be visited all around the year however monsoon season (June, July, and August) is recommended as the best time to visit. No permit is required for Begnas hiking around Pokhara Valley.

Hikers also ask about Pokhara Hiking

When is the best time to hike around Pokhara?

The Autumn season (September to November) is considered the best time to hike around Pokhara. It is also the peak tourist season in Pokhara. December to February are the coldest month in Pokhara and the winter continues till March since Pokhara is nearest to the Himalayas. Pokhara receives heavy rainfall from April to August.

What is the Best Hiking for one day?

The Sarangkot hike is the easiest and best short trek from Pokhara which is a 3-hour uphill climb from Lakeside Pokhara. The hill station is a popular one-night destination as many people stop in to enjoy the magical sunrise over the Annapurna range. It is a beautiful destination for mesmerizing sunrise/sunset views.

What is the best way to hike for two days?

Australian Camp and Dhampus hike is the best place for a two-day hike. The short and easy trek starts from Pokhara passing through a stone staircase with an unbelievable view of Mt. Annapurna South, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Machhapuchchhre, and Lamjung Himal.

Spending a night at an Australian camp on the first day and you will hike down a forest trail with the chirping sounds of birds to arrive at the beautiful Dhampus village on the next day. You will be blessed with majestic views of the Annapurna Himalayan range and experience an ethnic culture within a short time frame. In this way, you can get the best experience from your 2 days hiking trip.

How to hike around Pokhara?

Pokhara is a major tourist destination offering amazing places for hiking and trekking activities. While hiking, respect all the local cultures and customs followed in different parts of Pokhara.

Always walk slowly without leaving any trace which means avoiding throwing any kinds of waste materials. Be responsible with your trash as we are concerned with eco-friendly hiking activities.

What mountain can be seen from Pokhara Hiking?

Mountains like Machhapuchchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna Himalayan ranges can be seen while hiking around Pokhara. The Annapurna region of the Himalayas mountain range is a series of peaks including Annapurna massif (I to IV) and Machhapuchchhre, which is famous for its fish-tail shape.

How long is hiking around Pokhara?

The hike normally starts to the north of the Pokhara Valley and passes through Gurung villages and lovely terraced farmland. There are beautiful views of the Annapurnas, but the trail doesn’t climb very high in altitude. Therefore, the hiking around Pokhara is normally a day to one week long. You will get the best of Pokhara by hiking within a week.

What permits are needed for hiking around Pokhara?

As the majority of hiking place lies under the Annapurna conservation area, you will require an entry permit into the Annapurna Conservation Area. A Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card is required for hiking or trekking around Pokhara.

How difficult is Pokhara hiking?

Pokhara hiking normally passes through rhododendron forests, mountain villages, and rice fields as well as be amazed by close-up views of the Himalayas and doesn’t raise too high altitude. Therefore, the hiking trail around Pokhara Valley is generally graded as an easy to moderately challenging trail.

Which is the closest hiking trail to the Lakeside?

World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) is the closest hiking trail from the Lakeside, Pokhara where we can also see the beautiful pagoda of Buddha. The hiking trail starts from Lakeside and the main point lies at a distance of just 4.6 kilometers.

What other things can I do in Pokhara?

Besides hiking and trekking, there are lots of activities that can be done in Pokhara as it is a favorite destination for tourists. Touring or sightseeing around Pokhara Valley, paragliding from Sarangkot hill station, Bungee Jumping at Hemja, and white river rafting at Seti River are the famous activities that can be done in Pokhara.

What do you need to know before going hiking around Pokhara?

Before going hiking around Pokhara, you should be well prepared both physically and mentally. It is always a better idea to know about the people and the environment of Pokhara Valley, English is widely spoken in Pokhara, it’s very cheap, there are several laundry services, drink only bottled water, Shops lime the main street and the currency is the Nepali rupee. One thing to remember the most is weather can change within a minute in Pokhara Valley.

What are the best tours in Pokhara?

As Pokhara is a major tourist destination and there are so many best places in Pokhara to organize a tour. Best tour activities in Pokhara include a Helicopter tour to Annapurna Base Camp, a Ghorepani Poonhill tour, a Private day tour around Pokhara Valley by car, and a guided tour to explore the entire Pokhara city.

Where to visit Pokhara?

Places to visit in Pokhara are several and each of them is mind-blowing. Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Devi’s Fall, Bindhyabasini Temple, Mahendra Cave, Tal Barahi, Rupa Tal, International mountain museum, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Chambre Gufa, Seti river gorge, Gorkha memorial museum, Matepani Gumba, and many more places.