Why Choose Short Treks?
- Stunning panorama of the verdant hills and valleys and the colossal snow capped peaks of Machapuchare, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri among others.
- Passing through traditional villages where you will have the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the particular trekking region. Interaction with the people, their unique hospitality and monastery visits add to the cultural aspect of the journey.
- Ideal for those with less time to travel to experience a short and rewarding trek.
- Short treks are less tiresome and therefore an excellent choice for first time trekkers, families and those seeking relaxed hiking experiences.
- Walking across the varied landscapes ranging from forests to terraced rice fields and alpine pastures, allowing you a chance to experience Nepal's wealth of biodiversity.
- Excellent options for people who desire to have a quick getaway from their routine.
- A refreshing experience of nature without the commitment of long time or physical endurance. Enjoying the tranquility of the mountains within a period of few days.
- Most short treks start from readily accessible locations like Pokhara or Kathmandu and thus it becomes easier to organize and travel. The trails are well established and there are accommodations along the trail, so you can trek in comfort.
- With not so long distances and not so steep elevation gain, short treks require minimal physical conditioning than longer treks.
- Short treks are less logistically complicated because they do not require as much planning as a trek.
- In the event you are in Nepal for more than trekking, short treks are a great way of getting to see the mountains with additional activities like cultural sightseeing, adventure activities and others.
Budgeting for a Short Trek From Pokhara
Budget preparation for a short trek from Pokhara is one of the primary needs in making your tour a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Short treks are generally less expensive than longer treks because they require less planning and fewer costs for logistics like transportation, permits, lodging, meals and guide and porter services.
The transport cost from Pokhara to the starting point of a trek is not that expensive and a bus or taxi or jeep can be hired at an affordable rate. Additionally, trekking fees for destinations like the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) are a compulsory cost but are never that expensive.
With respect to accommodation and food, most short treks have lodges or teahouses en route with facilities for affordable accommodation and dining for the night. The prices are generally very economical with the basic rooms and shared space although they tend to change in accordance with place and season. Food is pricier along the trekking routes but still affordable and most trekkers spend a decent amount on simple, filling food like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) and noodle meals.
If you are going to hire a guide or porter, they normally charge a day rate which is generally affordable. Having a guide employed is especially convenient if you are not familiar with the terrains or want to learn more about the history and culture of the place. On the other hand, porters are vital to assist you with the heavy weight of your backpack and let you focus on and enjoy the trekking journey entirely. In general, a trek from Pokhara is not costly and budgeting for the aforementioned necessities will make your trek well prepared and enjoyable.
Short Treks From Pokhara Cost
When you book a trekking package from a registered trekking company, you will readily get all the logistics arranged. Usually, the price range for short treks from Pokhara falls somewhere between USD 300 to 500. And besides the cost that is covered by the package, you have to pay on your own like extra food and accommodation, travel insurance, tips for a guide and porter and personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, showers etc).
7 Best Short Treks From Pokhara
Poon Hill Trek
The Poon Hill Trek is among the shortest treks in Nepal, beginning from Pokhara. It offers spectacular panoramic scenery of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Completed within as less as 3 days time, the trek is appropriate for time limited trekkers.
For a short respite from the hustle and bustle of life, this short Poon Hill Trek is just the thing. It enables you to get back to nature and unwind giving you a nice break without spending too much of your time.
This awesome 3 days trek from Pokhara begins with a picturesque drive to Nayapul. It is the trek's starting point from where the scenic trails give way to the charming village of Ulleri. You will pass through beautiful rhododendron forests, cultivated lands and rural hamlets of Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani en route.
The trek continues to Ghorepani offering great cultural insight into the area as well as stunning scenery. From this village, you can either ascend Poon Hill for a sunset view or wait until the next morning to witness a mystical sunrise over the Himalayas.
Finally, you will trek back from Ghorepani to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara. This short but highly rewarding trek offers a great opportunity to experience the best of the Annapurna region with moderate effort. The trek is an excellent mix of cultural experience in Magar and Gurung villages, scenic beauty and a reasonable duration and is thus an ideal option for Nepal visitors with limited time.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070 meters) and trek to Ulleri (2,070 meters)
- Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850 meters) and ascend Poon Hill (3,210 meters) for sunset/sunrise
- Day 3: Trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara (822 meters)
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is one of the 7 best short treks from Pokhara. You can experience the grandeur of Nepal's mountains, mountainous landscapes and unique local culture without devoting much time and energy to a long trek. In just a few days, this trek can be seamlessly integrated into your travel schedule.
This short exhilarating trek gives you stunning views of the Annapurna, Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, Himalchuli, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal and other prominent peaks. The journey begins with a gorgeous drive to Kande. From here, you will start on the trail and head towards Forest Camp. You will be surrounded by dense forests on every side and will feel the calmness of nature as you step on.
A further trek and you will arrive at the Mardi Himal High Camp with wonderful views of mountains and valleys all around. The trail slowly rises providing you sufficient time to acclimatize and appreciate the beauty of nature to its limits.
Eventually, you will arrive at the Mardi Base Camp where the panoramic views of the Annapurna range are spectacular. After resting somewhat at the base camp, you will descend to Low Camp which is a peaceful resting area. The final day entails trekking to Siding from where you will take a vehicle to make a return to Pokhara.
The Mardi Himal Trek with its easy accessibility, moderate grade and stunning mountain views, is best for those wanting a short but rewarding Himalayan experience near Pokhara.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande (1,770 meters) and trek to Forest Camp (2,500 meters)
- Day 2: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,600 meters)
- Day 3: Hike to Mardi Base Camp (4,500 meters) and return to Low Camp (2,970 meters)
- Day 4: Trek to Siding (1,700 meters) and drive back to Pokhara (822 meters)
Ghandruk Trek
Ghandruk Trek is a stunning short trek near Pokhara with a fine combination of unique local culture and surreal mountain views. The wonderful Gurung hamlet of Ghandruk is easily reached travsering the well marked stone paved trails from Nayapul.
The Ghandruk trekking journey begins with an exciting drive by road from Pokhara to Nayapul. The scenic trails thereafter will gradually gain the revelation and eventually take you to Ghandruk, a charming village with stone houses and a vibrant culture. En route, the trail makes its way through thick jungles and rice terraces with a glimpse of people's everyday lives.
After your arrival at Ghandruk, you shall be welcomed by the wonderful sights of Annapurna South, Gangapurna and Macchapuchre mountains and warm Gurung hospitality. The journey then continues from here to Jhinu Danda, a place renowned for its natural hot springs.
Having rejuvenated yourself by immersing in the therapeutic waters of Jhinu Danda, you will descend again by driving back to Pokhara. The Ghandruk Trek is perfect for an individual seeking a short but satisfying experience of the adventure, culture and natural beauty packed within few days.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070 meters) and trek to Ghandruk (2,012 meters)
- Day 2: Explore Ghandruk and trek to Jhinu Danda (1,780 meters)
- Day 3: Jhinu Danda to Pokhara (822 meters) drive
Mulde Viewpoint Trek
The Mulde Viewpoint Trek is a brief journey from Pokhara with picturesque scenery of the lofty Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks. The tour begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul where your trek will start. Following the winding trails through small settlements, rivers and hills, you will reach Ulleri. It is a serene and beautiful village dotted with terraced fields and lovely forests.
The hike continues and moves forward towards Dobato during which you bask in the peacefulness of the area and the beautiful scenery of the mountains. The trek also provides meaningful cultural encounters as you pass through traditional villages inhabited by indigenous Gurung and Magar communities.
The third day involves the most exciting part of the trek, i.e. hiking to the Mulde Viewpoint. From the top of this vantage point, you can catch the breathtaking panorama of Annapurna South, Machapuchare and other peaks in the Annapurna series.
After a rewarding time at the Mulde hill station, you will descend to Ghandruk, a vibrant Gurung village known for its untampered traditional culture and magnificent mountain scenery. Finally, hiking one last time through the scenic trails, you will get back to Nayapul. You will be driven from here in a vehicle back to Pokhara and the journey is over.
In essence, the Mulde Viewpoint Trek is suitable for people who need an immersive experience with nature, culture and mountain views in a matter of days.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive to Nayapul (1,070 meters) and trek to Ulleri (2,070 meters)
- Day 2: Trek from Ulleri to Dobato (2,560 meters)
- Day 3: Hike to Mulde Viewpoint (3,637 meters) and to Ghandruk (2,012 meters)
- Day 4: Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara (822 meters)
Khopra Danda Trek
The Khopra Danda trekking endeavor kicks off with a mesmerizing drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. Nayapul is the gateway of adventures in the Annapurna region. Starting the trek from this charming town, you will head closer to Tadapani with each step you take. Passing through dense jungle with an amazing backdrop of mountains brings you to Bayeli Kharka. It is a peaceful location surrounded by alpine meadows and with views of the Annapurna range. The calm atmosphere and stunning natural scenery make it an ideal location for trekkers looking for a peaceful retreat.
Gradually, you will reach the Khopra Ridge where you are rewarded with an eyefilling panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. For those who want more excitement and exploration, there is an optional trip to the alpine glacial Khayer Lake at 4,660 meters. The lake is encircled by gratifying Himalayas and is considered sacred making it an important destination for spiritual seekers.
After exploring the shimmering Khayer Lake, you will get back to Swanta and spend the night enjoying the local cuisine and hospitality. The next morning, you will leave Swanta and head towards Ghorepani before descending to Nayapul. From Nayapul, the bus or any other means of vehicle will bring you back to Pokhara.
The Khopra Danda Trek is a good option for those looking for a relatively short but satisfying Himalayan trek with breathtaking views, peaceful landscapes and experience of village life. This amazing 5 days trek from Pokhara gives you all that you are looking for in a mountain journey. You can still have the same breathtaking views and deep cultural immersion without going through a multi week adventure.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive to Nayapul (1,070 meters) and trek to Tadapani (2,630 meters)
- Day 2: Trek to Bayeli Kharka (3,420 meters)
- Day 3: Trek to Khopra Ridge (3,660 meters)
- Day 4: Visit Khayer Lake (optional) and trek back to Swanta (2,270 meters)
- Day 5: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850) and then Nayapul, drive to Pokhara (822 meters)
Kori Danda Trek
The Kori Danda Trek is an attractive short trek from Pokhara that allows a unique feel of the Annapurna region. With fewer crowds than those on other popular treks in the area, you will experience a solitary and tranquil adventure while being closer to the nature and culture of the region.
Kori Trek from Pokhara begins with a picturesque drive towards Sikles which is a traditional Gurung village. Once you arrive in Sikles, you will begin your trek to Hugu Goth following the path that takes you through thick forests, field terraces and small villages. You will overnight at Hugu Goth which will allow you to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the surroundings.
Day two sees you continue your trek from Hugu Goth to Khori Danda on a track that goes higher into the hills and treats you to beautiful wide-angle views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks. The trek is a bit demanding and very rewarding as you go up through dense rhododendron forests and open ridges. Kori Danda is a great spot to sit and ponder or just chill out. After spending some time taking in the view, you can then explore around the region before returning to Sikles the following day along the same trail.
When you get back to Sikles, you can unwind and walk around the village leisurely. Grab the one last opportunity to interact with the hospitable and warm-hearted villagers. Shortly after that time spent inside the village, you will drive back to Pokhara passing through some magnificent scenery where your adventure ends.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive to Sikles (1,981 meters) and trek to Hugu Goth (2,050 meters)
- Day 2: Trek to Kori Danda (2,800 meters)
- Day 3: Explore and return to Sikles (1,981 meters)
- Day 4: Drive back to Pokhara (822 meters)
Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek
Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek is a very interesting short trek where you are able to experience the rich culture and scenic views of the Annapurna area. The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a lively lake town. The drive is resumed on the second day to the Sikles Village where the trek begins.
You will walk from Sikles to Hugu Goth through forested areas and terraced fields with a view of village life. The serene ambiance and stunning vistas of the surrounding Himalayas make for an excellent start to the trek.
The next morning, you will hike to the stunning Kapuche Lake. This incredible alpine lake lies at the foot of the colossal Annapurna range. The peaceful lake with its soothing environment and deep blue hue provides a wonderful opportunity to unwind and take some quiet moments of contemplation and photography.
You shall then move from here to Nohtha, a high altitude village that provides you with panoramic views of the snow capped mountains and lush green valleys. Moving on to Kori Danda on the following day, you will enjoy the excellent views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna South, Machapuchare and other prominent peaks.
Finally, you will come back to Sikles Village where once again you can absorb the local culture and relax after your high altitude adventure. On the final day, you will drive back to Pokhara which concludes the trek.
The Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek is an excellent short Himalayan trek with great natural scenery of the glacial landscape and cultural experience. It is a perfect option for trekkers who are looking for a shorter trekking option from Pokhara that is not less on either scenic beauty or adventure.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 meters) to Pokhara (822 meters)
- Day 02: Drive to Sikles Village (1,981 meters) and Trek to Hugu Goth (2,050 meters)
- Day 03: Day hike to Kapuche Lake (2,450 meters)
- Day 04: Trek to Nohtha (3,050 meters)
- Day 05: Trek to Kori Danda (3,800 meters)
- Day 06: Trek to Sikles Village
- Day 07: Drive back to Pokhara (822 meters)
Safety for Short Treks in Nepal
- Before you begin your trek, ensure that your gear is functioning well.
- For short treks even though less exhausting, it is better to have a guide and porter accompany you.
- Be alert to the warning signs such as headache, dizziness or vomiting which might be initial symptoms of altitude sickness. Take a gradual pace to acclimatize well to the increasing elevation. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and get plenty of rest.
- In the backcountry, ATM establishments might not be handy. Keep some Nepali rupees in cash with you for small day to day trek expenses.
- Do not litter and do not harm local flora and fauna.
- Weather in the mountains can be volatile, so check weather forecasts before stepping out and get ready for surprise changes.
- Keep a local SIM card or a satellite phone with you for communication in remote areas where service may be limited.
- Remain on designated trails and stick with your guide. Wandering off the trail can result in getting lost, running into wild animals or having to cross difficult terrain that will raise your risk of injury.
- Be sensitive towards local customs and traditions.
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