Top 16 Pokhara Trekking Routes – Best Treks from Pokhara

Why Pokhara is Nepal’s Trekking Hub?

Pokhara is often called the “Gateway to the Himalayas” and for good reason. This beautiful lake city, surrounded by the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, is the starting point for some of the most breathtaking treks in Nepal. Whether you have just two days or two weeks, there’s a perfect trek for you starting from Pokhara.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• One Day Hike
• Short treks (2–5 days) for beginners and those on a tight schedule
• Medium treks (6–9 days) for a balanced adventure
• Long treks (10+ days) for those seeking epic Himalayan experiences

Let’s dive in!

1 Day Hikes from Pokhara

1. Sarangkot Day Hiking

Sarangkot hike is among the most well-liked short treks around Pokhara since it offers an incredible sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri’s sunrise. This sunrise is one of the most beautiful sunrises in Nepal.

It’s only a few hours of hiking that will take you to a hilltop viewpoint of Pokhara valley, Phewa Lake and mountain Machhapuchhre. It’s suitable for people looking to have an experience of trekking around Pokhara without spending a lot of time out of it.

• Duration: 1 Day
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Maximum altitude: 1600m

Major Highlights:

• Mesmerizing sunrise over the Annapurna range
• Amazing top view of Pokhara and Phewa Lake
• Paragliding Sarangkot (optional)

Recommended Itinerary:

• Start: Early morning drive to Bindhyabasini or Lakeside
• Hike: Walk uphill to Sarangkot (2–3 hours)
• Return: Hike down to Lakeside on foot or take a car

Best For: Sunrise lovers, short-time travelers, and photography enthusiasts.

2. Dhampus Day Hike

Dhampus hike offers a great combination of culture and picturesque mountains. This short trek takes you over terraced fields and Gurung villages that then takes you to Dhampus.

In Dhampus you can enjoy the panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. It serves as a great option for all the starters and families to experience trekking near Pokhara.

• Duration: 1 Day
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Maximum altitude: 1770m

Major Highlights:

• Experience traditional Gurung culture
• Jaw-dropping close-up views of mountains
• Easy trail for beginners

Suggested Itinerary:

• Start: Drive from Pokhara to Phedi (30 mins)
• Hike: Trek uphill to Dhampus (2-3 hrs)
• Explore: Enjoy lunch and village sightseeing
• Return: Walk back to Phedi or Kande and drive to Pokhara

Best For: Families, beginners, and for someone with limited time

3. Australian Camp Day Hike

The Australian Base Camp Hike is a one-day short trek from Pokhara, this camp was previously known as ‘Thulo Kharka’ which means big pasture. It is famous for views of Annapurna range Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. The trail passes through forests and Gurung villages like Dhampus and other small villages before ending at Phedi.

• Duration: 1 Day
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Maximum altitude: 2060m

Highlights:

• 360° views of the mountains
• Calm forest trails
• Best view during sunrise and sunset

Itinerary: Australian Camp

• Start: Drive to Kande (1 hour)
• Hike: Trek to Australian Camp (1.5 hours)
• Explore: Relax and enjoy views at the camp
• Return: Walk back to Kande and drive to Pokhara

Best For: Travelers who want a quick mountain experience without long trekking days.

Short Treks: Pokhara Trekking (3-5 Days)

These treks are perfect for beginners or travelers with limited time. They offer stunning Himalayan views, cultural encounters, and easy trails.

4. Panchase Trek

The Panchase Trek is a short Pokhara trekking route that passes through Gurung villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests, finally leading to Panchase Peak (2,500m) for panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. This 3-day trek is best for beginners, it combines Himalayan vistas, cultural experiences, and nature in a refreshing weekend hike.

• Duration: 3 days
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Maximum altitude: 2500m

Highlights:

• Spectacular sunrise and sunset points
• Rich flora and fauna in lush forests
• Traditional Gurung villages

Recommended Panchase Itinerary:

• Day 1: Pokhara → Khade → trek to Bhumdi
• Day 2: Bhumdi → Panchase Bhanjyang
• Day 3: Panchase → Bhadaure → drive back to Pokhara

5. Ghandruk Village Trek

Ghandruk Village Trek is the trek to Ghandruk village, a popular Gurung settlement in the Annapurna region. This short hike combines cultural discovery as well as spectacular mountain vistas. The traditional stone houses, local museum, and friendly locals make the trip memorable. The settlement offers close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

• Duration: 3 days
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Maximum altitude: 2012m

Highlights:

• Smart Gurung village lifestyle experience
• Close-up views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre
• Easy trail suitable for beginners

Suggested Itinerary

• Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → trek to Ghandruk
• Day 2: Explore Ghandruk village and museum
• Day 3: Return to Pokhara via Nayapul

6. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek from Pokhara is one of the most popular short Nepal trekking route. This 4-day treks provide beautiful Himalayan scene along with the spectacular sunrise from Poon hill where mountains light up in golden color.

The trek is suitable for all age groups and easier, with a maximum altitude of 3,210m, making it a great short adventure without high risk of altitude sickness.

• Duration: 4 days
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Maximum altitude: 3210m

Highlights:

• Mesmerizing sunrise from Poon Hill
• Beautiful Magar and Gurung villages
• Panoramic mountain views

Ghorepani Poonhill: Itinerary

• Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga
• Day 2: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani
• Day 3: Hike to Poon Hill → trek to Tadapani
• Day 4: Tadapani → Ghandruk → return to Pokhara

7. Sikles Trek

Sikles trek is a relatively less-traveled trail that takes you to one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal. Located northeast of Pokhara, Sikles offers a peaceful trekking experience with stunning views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. It’s a culturally rich route where you can witness traditional Gurung lifestyle away from the busier trails.

• Duration: 4 days
• Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
• Maximum altitude: 2000m

Highlights:

• Off-the-beaten-path experience
• Stunning Himalayan views without crowds
• Rich culture and homestays

Suggested Itinerary (4 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Bijayapur → Kalikasthan
• Day 2: Kalikasthan → Sikles
• Day 3: Explore Sikles village
• Day 4: Return to Pokhara

8. Khumai Danda Trek

The Khumai Danda Trek, also known as the Machhapuchhre Model Trek, is a hidden treasure near Pokhara. It brings you to the base of Machhapuchhre, where you can get a close-up glimpse of the sacred peak as well as panoramic Annapurna panoramas. Because it is relatively new and less busy, it is ideal for hikers looking for peace and unspoiled paths.

• Duration: 3 days
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Maximum altitude: 3245m

Highlights:

• Panoramic views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre
• Calm and secluded
• Forest and village trails

Trek Itinerary

• Day 1: Pokhara → drive to Dhikurpokhari → trek to Khumai
• Day 2: Khumai → viewpoint → explore villages
• Day 3: Trek back → drive to Pokhara

Medium Treks: Trekking from Pokhara (6–9 Days)

9. Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal trek is one of the best short treks from Pokhara that quickly takes you into the heart of the Annapurna region. The trail climbs through rhododendron forests to high ridges that face Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal directly. In less than a week, trekkers reach Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), making it an ideal choice for stunning mountain views on a shorter itinerary.

• Duration: 6 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum altitude: 4500m

Highlights:

• Less crowded than Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Beautiful ridge walks with 360° views
• Perfect for moderate-level trekkers

Itinerary (6 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Kande → Forest Camp
• Day 2: Forest Camp → Low Camp
• Day 3: Low Camp → High Camp
• Day 4: High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp → return to Low Camp
• Day 5: Low Camp → Siding Village
• Day 6: Siding → Pokhara

9. Khopra Danda Trek

The Khopra Danda trek is a quieter alternative to the famous Poon Hill route, taking you to a ridge that offers spectacular views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. One of its highlights is a side trip to the sacred Khayer Lake. With fewer crowds and strong community-run lodges, it’s a rewarding trek for those who want a more authentic experience in the Annapurna region.

• Duration: 6 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum altitude: 3,660m

Highlights:

• Off-the-beaten-path trek with fewer crowds
• Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli
• Opportunity for a side hike to sacred Khayer Lake (4,500m)
• Local teahouse experience in traditional villages

Itinerary (6 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → Ghandruk
• Day 2: Ghandruk → Tadapani
• Day 3: Tadapani → Dobato
• Day 4: Dobato → Khopra Danda
• Day 5: Khopra Danda (optional Khayer Lake hike) → Swanta Village
• Day 6: Swanta → Nayapul → drive back to Pokhara

10. Jomsom- Muktinath Trek

The Jomsom–Muktinath trekking starting from pokhara takes you through Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world. This trek blends the Himalayan views with cultural importance.

You will pass through windy landscapes, windswept valleys, Thakali villages, and finally the sacred Muktinath Temple. This trek is ideal for those with an interest in nature and for spiritual travelers.

• Duration: 7 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum altitude: 3,800m

Highlights:

• Explore the sacred temple of Muktinath, important for both Hindus and Buddhists
• Unique landscapes of the Mustang region with desert-like valleys
• Walk along the Kali Gandaki River, famous for Shaligram fossils
• Stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
• Blend of culture, religion, and natural beauty

Itinerary (7 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga
• Day 2: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani
• Day 3: Ghorepani → Poon Hill sunrise → Tatopani
• Day 4: Tatopani → Ghasa
• Day 5: Ghasa → Marpha (famous apple orchards)
• Day 6: Marpha → Jomsom → Kagbeni
• Day 7: Kagbeni → Muktinath → drive back to Jomsom

Long Treks (10+ Days from Pokhara)

11. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek

Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the most famous long treks from Pokhara, taking trekkers to the heart of Annapurna Sanctuary. On the way, one can encounter lovely villages, and bamboo and alpine meadows, culminating at Annapurna I (8,091m). It stands out as a richly rewarding trek balanced with cultural and Himalayan scenery.

• Duration: 12 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Maximum altitude: 4,130m

Highlights:

• Classic trek to Annapurna Base Camp with stunning 360° Himalayan views
• Rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and diverse landscapes
• Cultural experience in Gurung and Magar villages
• Optional sunrise view from Poon Hill

Itinerary (12 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga
• Day 2: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani
• Day 3: Ghorepani → Poon Hill sunrise → Tadapani
• Day 4: Tadapani → Chomrong
• Day 5: Chomrong → Dovan
• Day 6: Dovan → Deurali
• Day 7: Deurali → Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo
• Day 8: Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo → Chomrong
• Day 9: Chomrong → Jhinu Danda (hot springs)
• Day 10: Jhinu Danda → Nayapul → drive back to Pokhara
• Day 11–12: Rest and explore Pokhara

13. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Circuit Trek: Pokhara Trekking Route

Annapurna Circuit is one of the classic trekking routes that circumnavigate the Annapurna massif, crossing the high Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Trekkers get to experience a variety of cultural traditions during the 2 week trek while witnessing a more drastic change in the landscapes where they start from subtropical valleys to alpine deserts. It remains one of the most complete trekking experiences in Nepal, starting or ending in Pokhara.

• Duration: 14 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Maximum altitude: 4,130m

Highlights:

• Complete ABC loop via Machapuchare Base Camp
• Panoramic mountain views including Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli
• Hot springs at Jhinu Danda and cultural villages along the trail
• Optional sunrise at Poon Hill

Itinerary (14 Days):

• Day 1–7: Same as ABC Trek
• Day 8: Annapurna Base Camp → Machapuchare Base Camp → Sinuwa
• Day 9: Sinuwa → Deurali → Bamboo
• Day 10: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda (hot springs)
• Day 11: Jhinu Danda → Nayapul → drive back to Pokhara
• Day 12–14: Optional Poon Hill sunrise and Pokhara sightseeing

14. Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang trek takes you into the “Forbidden Kingdom of Lo,” a culturally Tibetan region north of the Annapurnas. With its desert-like landscapes, ancient monasteries, and the walled city of Lo Manthang, this trek feels like stepping back in time. Restricted permits are required, making it a special journey for those seeking remote culture and history.

• Duration: 12–14 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum altitude: 4,090m (Lo Manthang)

Highlights:

• Explore the restricted and mystical region of Upper Mustang
• Tibetan-influenced culture and ancient monasteries
• Dramatic desert landscapes, deep canyons, and arid cliffs
• Unique experience in the Kingdom of Lo with traditional villages

Itinerary (12 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Jomsom (flight) → Kagbeni
• Day 2: Kagbeni → Chele
• Day 3: Chele → Chhoser → Lo Manthang
• Day 4: Lo Manthang (explore the walled city and monasteries)
• Day 5: Lo Manthang → Tangye
• Day 6: Tangye → Yara
• Day 7: Yara → Ghami
• Day 8: Ghami → Dhakmar → Lo Manthang
• Day 9: Lo Manthang → Chhoser
• Day 10: Chhoser → Kagbeni → Jomsom
• Day 11: Jomsom → Pokhara (flight)
• Day 12: Rest/Explore Pokhara

15. Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nar Phu Valley is a hidden gem that combines rugged mountain landscapes with authentic Himalayan culture. Situated between Annapurna and Manaslu, this trek requires a restricted area permit and takes you through medieval-style villages, deep canyons, and high passes like Kang La. It’s perfect for trekkers who want a remote and less-commercialized adventure.

• Duration: 10–12 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Maximum altitude: 4,180m (Kangla Pass)

Highlights:

• Off-the-beaten-path trek through Nar and Phu villages
• Tibetan culture and traditional Himalayan villages
• Stunning views of Annapurna II, III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho peak
• High passes and remote trails for adventurous trekkers

Itinerary (10 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Besisahar → Koto
• Day 2: Koto → Nar Village
• Day 3: Nar → Phu Village
• Day 4: Acclimatization in Phu / explore village
• Day 5: Phu → Kang La Pass → Nar
• Day 6: Nar → Koto
• Day 7: Koto → Besisahar → drive to Pokhara
• Day 8–10: Rest/optional local sightseeing

16. Tilicho Lake Trek

The Tilicho Lake trek is usually done as a side trip from the Annapurna Circuit, taking you to one of the highest lakes in the world (4,919m). The trail is rugged but rewarding, with spectacular views of Tilicho Peak and surrounding ranges. It’s a popular add-on for trekkers who want to experience both culture and one of Nepal’s most iconic high-altitude lakes.

• Duration: 9–11 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Maximum altitude: 4,919m (Tilicho Lake)

Highlights:

• Visit one of the highest lakes in the world
• Incredible mountain views of Annapurna range
• Less crowded trails compared to ABC
• Challenging high-altitude trek suitable for fit trekkers

Itinerary (10 Days):

• Day 1: Pokhara → Besisahar → Bhulbhule
• Day 2: Bhulbhule → Jagat
• Day 3: Jagat → Dharapani
• Day 4: Dharapani → Chame
• Day 5: Chame → Upper Pisang
• Day 6: Upper Pisang → Manang
• Day 7: Manang → Tilicho Base Camp
• Day 8: Tilicho Base Camp → Tilicho Lake → Manang
• Day 9: Manang → Yak Kharka
• Day 10: Yak Kharka → Besisahar → drive to Pokhara

Final Thoughts

Pokhara is truly the heart of trekking in Nepal. Whether you’re a beginner with just a couple of days or an adventure lover looking for a challenging high-pass trek, there’s something for everyone here.

Want to plan your trek from Pokhara? Check out our detailed itineraries or contact us for custom packages.