If you are looking for some scenic excursions you should try Pokhara trekking. It will leave you completely drenched with a lot of popular trekking points. Some of these points include Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Royal Trek and Mardi Himal Trek too. It is also one of the best opportunity to surround yourself with the best Himalayan peaks.
You can have some of the best mountain views in the month of March, April, October and November when the mountains are covered with snow making them look truly beautiful. Pokhara features some short treks too which makes it easier for trekkers who are trying it for the first time
Here are some of the best treks in Pokhara:
1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
Mount Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain in the world, and trekking to its base is nothing short of an achievement. If you find EBC too daunting, ABC is the second best option for you where you can challenge your spirit to do something extraordinary to deserve something extraordinary in the form of breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
When you look around and below at the world from Annapurna Base Camp, you realize that you have left the world behind to find an abode above clouds. This is one of the most sought after Himalayan treks, and is a great choice if you have prior experience in trekking moderate level trails.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Height: The maximum elevation you reach is 13,550 feet
Best Season: September to November
2. Dhampus Trek:
A classic trek in Nepal, Dhampus Trek covers scenic beauty and gives you the opportunity to a land that’s inhabited by such wide diversity of people. The spectacular scenery in the background, the stunning Mt. Mchhapuchare range makes the small trek quite rewarding experience.
Highlights: The Dhampus Trek follows a short stretch of woods, perfect for those who would like to discover nature. The mountain view is completed with the views of ethnic Gurung Village. The trip, which begins for Kathmandu usually follows a hike to Sarankot hilltop and then panoramic views of Annapurna range.
Location: Dhampus Village.
Things to keep in mind: While the trek is short and easy, it is recommended that travellers carry their water bottles, come with right kind of equipment and gear. Don’t forget to carry sunglasses as well as winter clothing with lots of sunscreen as trekking can lead to sunburns.
3. Royal Trek:
A short trek that follows a shrub-like path, Royal Trek is all about rediscovering the beauty of nature. The trek is called Royal Trek as the trail was explored by Prince Charles of the United Kingdom in the early 80s. The place offers meaningful opportunities for discovering a diverse mix of peoples and culture that live in this region.
Highlights:The eloquent beauty of this trek and the stunning Gurung hamlets are the Highlights of this trek. The true picture of unique Nepal beauty is visible through the place. Compared to other treks in the region, this trekking trail is relatively uncrowded and recommended for beginners and it is one of the most visited and famous places for trekking in Nepal for adventure lovers.
Things to keep in mind:This particular trek doesn’t require a high level of professional trekking equipment. However, you should carry warm socks, fleece jackets and wind-protecting equipment with trekking poles to walk easily through the trail.
4. Jomsom & Muktinath:
A classic lodge trek in Mustang region, this trek is arguably a life changer! The initial days of the trek are all about discovering the world of Nepal, exploring its scenic beauty and enjoying the cultural experiences that the place has to offer.
Highlights: During this trek, you will initially ascend through the villages where indigenous people live and move through the rice terraces of the area. The grandeur of natural hot springs in the area, the holy pilgrimage centers and the sacred temple with 108 waterfalls will mesmerize you. That’s why this tour goes beyond natural beauty of Nepal to fully enchant your senses. It here that you will also discover the ancient traditions still in practice.
Things to keep in mind: Ensure that you check the weather in the area. Always carry a large daypack, which is light but filled with items like extra pair of hiking socks, fleece jacket, water bottles and other options.
5. Annapurna Circuit:
Sometimes, you don’t just trek for the physical activity or the adventure, but you trek for an experience- the one that can be narrated to everyone around you. This is one such trek. Annapurna Circuit is a popular trek, with the route varying from 160-230 kilometer depending on the transportation and the road taken.
Highlights:This route takes you through the edge of Tibetan Plateau, which is a mind-boggling experience. You also get to go through Thorung La Pass, where the trek rises to the altitude of 5400 meters. The climate zones change dramatically. The trek usually takes 15-20 days.
Things to keep in mind:Annapurna Circuit Weather is prone to changes. So, ensure that you observe the weather, check for updates on the climate before leaving. Carrying professional level trekking equipment and a large daypack is recommended as well.
6. Ghorepani Trek:
Experience stunning views of the Annapurna range. Enjoy eating hearty meals during this introductory trek. If you are interested in doing a safe, beginner’s level trek, then this oddly comfortable trek is the right option for you.
Highlights: The trek usually takes 2-5 days, depending on the tour you decide to go with. The energizing fresh mountains and the enthralling natural beauty of dramatic Annapurna range will cast an impression on your mind.
The leisurely trip will also involve a cultural exchange, giving travellers the opportunity to meet and greet people from Nepali. The trek usually begins from Poon Hill and provides you with a chance to discover the Lake City of Pokhara.
Things to keep in mind: For this trek, don’t forget to take trekking boots and hiking socks with you. The temperatures can drop sometimes and therefore, carry a fleece jacket, with a wind-protector is an ideal option.
7. Banthati Trek:
If you are searching for something incredible, then trek to Banthati is an option an you. The backpacking trip usually involves a number of other destiantions, including Ulleri, Banthanti and Nangathanti. The treks can be anywhere from 4 days to 10 days long.
Highlights: The sun rises quickly in this place, which makes it easier to explore the panoramic views. Apart from the trek, you can enjoy buying artistic products, beautiful handmade jewelry at the place. The trek is pleasant, with pure spring water, stacked stones and plunge pools right by your side.
Things to keep in mind: Since this trek tends to long and moderately difficult, you need to get comprehensive gear for the trek. This includes carrying walking boots and a day pack. You might even need to have sleeping bags, first-aid box and water bottles with you. Don’t forget to carry safety equipment.
8. Landruk Trek:
Enjoy panoramic, spectacular views of the valley with the Landruk Trek. The trek usually starts from Ghandruk Village or the River Camp, depending on the option of the tour that’s chosen. This particular trek offers some incredible nature views that will leave an indelible imprint on the heart.
Highlights: When the fog is lifted in the region, you will experience a nature rendezvous that you wouldn’t have imagined before. The small clearing, nestled with the forests and incredible mountains is a must have. The Landruk village itself has farming terraces that will instantly capture your heart and it is one of the most visited and famous treks in Nepal for adventure lovers.
Things to keep in mind: This is a moderate trek that can be undertaken by beginners and trek lovers alike. Just ensure that you don’t carry items that cannot be disposed easily or could harm the environment. Don’t forget to carry sunglasses and sunscreen along with water bottles.
9. Pothana Trek:
Trekking is quite an adventure, especially in the mountains and hills of Nepal. One such trek is the trek to Pothana, where you can enjoy the glimpse of the luxurious white clad mountains and experience the sky so close to your head.
Highlights: The jungles near Pothana offer such a unique trekking experience. The place is a habitat for wonderful wild animals, birds and butterflies. It is a paradise for trek lovers. What’s more is that the place has a diverse range of population and their enthusiasm to meet and greet people will warm your heart.
Things to keep in mind: Foreigners should get permission from relevant government authorities for this trek. However, if you are travelling with a tour group, you wouldn’t need such permissions. Make sure that you carry trekking poles, binoculars, wash towels and eco-friendly water bottles. Don’t forget to have a sanitizer with you.
10. Ghandruk Cultural Trek:
Sometimes, a trek goes beyond the natural beauty of a place to capture the cultural aspects of a region. And that’s what Ghandruk Cultural Trek is all about. The stunning trek gives you an opportunity to romance with the cultural and natural scenery of Ghandruk, where you can walk through the ridges, villages and forests.
Highlights: The place is full of Gurung inhabitants, who are friendly, warm people with their own unique culture. The opportunity to eat, drink and meet these people itself is a wonderful, once in a lifetime event.
Things to keep in mind:This cultural trek is easy. However, you have to keep in mind that you get a fleece jacket with a wind-stopper for this trek. Don’t forget scarves and sun-hat. Carry a basic first aid kit, a day pack, trekking poles and hiking socks for the trek. Stay safe with thermal bottoms.
