Pokhara is a picturesque and romantic city located in the Gandaki Province of nepal and is a haven for adventure seekers. The city is very popular for short trips, and short hiking trails, and is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and beautiful natural vistas. It is also the starting point of many popular hiking destinations such as Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, and many more trails.
But for those looking for a short trip, a short hike near pokhara offers breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks, serene lakes, and the bustling city itself. The city is filled with famous waterfalls, caves, and lakes including Devi’s Fall, Mahendra Cave, and Fewa Lakes. Additionally, you can also witness the highest peaks including Mount Annapurna, Macchapuchre, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.
1. Sarangkot Sunrise View
Sarangkot is a popular spot near Pokhara. It is known for its stunning sunrise views of the Annapurna range. The range includes mountains like Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. Sarangkot is located in Nepal. The Sarangkot sunrise hike in Pokhara is perfect for beginners. It is also popular among travelers seeking a magical nature experience. The hike usually begins early in the morning, often before dawn, to reach the viewpoint in time for the sunrise spectacle.
The journey to Sarangkot typically starts from Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city in Nepal, and takes about an hour to reach the Sarangkot Hilltop. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, offering glimpses of local life and stunning scenery.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 1,592m (5,224ft) |
| Trip Grade | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season(September – November) |
How to get there?
To reach Sarangkot Sunrise Viewpoint from Pokhara, hire a taxi, rent a motorcycle, or join a guided tour. Alternatively, you can hike from Pokhara, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once at Sarangkot, pay a small fee to enter the viewpoint area, find a good spot, and enjoy the stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
2. World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)
The World Peace Pagoda, also known as Shanti Stupa, is the best short trek near pokhara. The stupa was built to promote peace and harmony in the world. Additionally, the pagoda offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, Phewa Lake, and the Pokhara Valley.
The site is not only a place of religious significance but also serves as a popular tourist and hiking destination. Many visitors admire the architecture, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 1,100m (3,608ft) |
| Trip Grade | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September- November) |
How to get there?
To reach the World Peace Pagoda, you can take a boat across Phewa Lake from Lakeside or hike from Pokhara, which takes about 1-2 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or private car for a quicker option. Once there, climb a short flight of stairs to reach the main pagoda and enjoy panoramic views of Pokhara City, Phewa Lake, and the surrounding mountains.
3. Begnas Lake
Begnas Lake is a short trek near pokhara, a hidden gem near pokhara, surrounded by hills and natural vistas. Hiking around Begnas Lake is filled with charming villages, terraced fields, and lush greenery forests. The hike typically takes 3 to 4 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass by local villages and several viewpoints that offer a view of annapurna and other major Himalayan ranges.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 650 m (2,133 ft) |
| Trip Grade | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September- November) |
How to get there?
To get to Begnas Lake, you can take a scenic drive or hire a taxi. It typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you can also hire a private car or join a guided tour from Pokhara to Begnas Lake. Once at the lake, you can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, or simply relaxing in the tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountain views.
4. Dhampus Village Trek
The Dhampus Village Trek is a scenic short hiking trail in the Annapurna region of Nepal, renowned for its breathtaking mountain vistas and cultural immersion opportunities. The trekking route passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional Nepalese villages, providing trekkers with a glimpse into rural life in the Himalayas. Dhampus, at an altitude of around 1,750 m (5,741 ft), offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain ranges.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 1,750m (5, 741ft) |
| Trip Grade | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September – November) |
How to get there?
To reach Dhampus Village for trekking in Nepal, start from Pokhara. You can either drive to Phedi, the trek’s starting point, which takes around 30-40 minutes or opt for a more adventurous hike directly from Pokhara. The trek from Pokhara usually takes 4-6 hours, winding through lush forests and traditional villages.
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5. Naudanda Vista Trail
The Naudanda Vista Trail is a short beginner-friendly trekking route situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes. Starting from the village of Naudanda, the trail passes its way through forests, terraced fields, and traditional Nepalese settlements. Along the way, trekkers may encounter friendly locals going about their daily lives, providing insight into the traditional way of life in rural Nepal.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 1,590m (5,216ft) |
| Trip Grade | Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September – November) |
How to get there?
To access the Naudanda Vista Trail, trekkers can either drive or take a taxi to Naudanda, which takes about 1-1.5 hours. Alternatively, begin on a scenic hike from Pokhara to Naudanda, which typically takes 4-5 hours. Once at Naudanda, trek the Naudanda Vista Trail for breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Pokhara Valley, and surrounding villages. The trek is suitable for hikers of all levels and offers a rewarding experience amidst the stunning Nepalese landscape.
6. Australian Camp
Australian Camp is a popular family-friendly trek near pokhara situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal, renowned for its stunning mountain views and serene surroundings. Perched at an altitude of around 2,050 m (6,726 ft), Australian Camp offers panoramic vistas of the Annapurna mountain range, including peaks such as Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 2,050m (6,726ft) |
| Trip Grade | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September – November) |
How to get there?
To reach the Australian Base Camp in Nepal, start from Pokhara, you can either drive or take a taxi to Kande, the trek’s starting point, which takes about 1-1.5 hours. From there, trek on a scenic trek through picturesque villages and lush forests for around 4-6 hours. This trek offers stunning mountain scenery suitable for hikers of all levels, providing a memorable experience.
7. Mohare Danda
The Mohare Danda is a popular short trek near Pokhara. It is the least popular hidden destination nestled in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,300 m (10,827 ft), Mohare Danda is popular for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, as well as its pristine natural surroundings.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 3,300m (10,827ft) |
| Trip Grade | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September – November) |
How to get there?
You can either take a taxi or drive from pokhara to Galeshwor, the trek’s starting point, taking about 4-5 hours. Alternatively, take a bus from Pokhara to Beni and then arrange local transportation to Galeshwor, which is about 1-2 hours away. From Galeshwor, begin on a scenic trek through villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests for 3-4 days to reach Mohare Danda. Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and the surrounding landscapes.
8. Panchase
Panchase is a serene and lesser-known short hiking destination near pokhara. The trek to the panchase is a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and panoramic mountain views. The Panchase trek is named after Panchase Hill, which is about 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) high and is the main attraction of the trek.
Facts
| Maximum Altitude | 2, 500m (8,202ft) |
| Trip Grade | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September- November) |
How to get there?
From Pokhara trekkers can arrange a drive or taxi to Khare, the trek’s starting point, taking about 1-2 hours. Alternatively, take a bus from Pokhara to Thado Khola and then arrange local transportation or hike to Khare, which is about 1-2 hours away. From Khare, begin your trek towards Panchase, passing through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced fields over 3-5 days.
So, be ready to hike!
The short hike near pokhara offers a blend of stunning natural vistas and vibrant culture. These trails are perfect for families and couples looking to spend some quality time together. They also provide a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of busy life, allowing you to immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings of the Himalayas.
Additionally, if you are planning a broader exploration of nepal, consider combining the kathmandu and pokhara tour to experience the diverse heritage and beauty. Both cities of Nepal provide unique insights into the rich cultural heritage and natural scenarios, ensuring unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
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With his past 14 years of experience Pradip Khadka has acquired a vast knowledge of the mountainous life of Nepal. Young and energetic Pradip has led travelers to the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal and been praised for his knowledge, helping nature & his patience by his clients.
