Pokhara is the base camp for adventure activities and the gateway to the Annapurna Region Treks. This is not only renowned for the beauty of the lakes and Mountain vistas, but also the best opportunity for an incredible day hike experience. Whether you are a nature lover, an experienced trekker, or a beginner looking for a short and beautiful adventure. Pokhara offers a wide range of hiking options from the delicate forest trail to the stunning Mountain viewpoints.
Day hiking in Pokhara is one of the most rewarding experiences in Pokhara while you explore the region. This valley is surrounded by tranquil lakes, the mountain range of Annapurna Renge, lush forest, and hills. Pokhara offers one of the best day hiking experiences in Pokhara. And day hikes are one of the must-do things in Pokhara.
In this blog, I am giving the essential information about the best hiking routes in Pokhara. Including the most popular short hikes in Pokhara, ideal for travellers with limited time but wants to have an experience of the local lifestyle, culture, tradition, and natural beauty of the region.
Why should you do Day Hiking in Pokhara?
Pokhara Valley is surrounded by hills, forests, and lakes. It is uniquely placed with easy access to those Hills, villages, forests, and Mountain views. Most of the longer treks in Nepal require proper planning, obtain entree permits, and even a special permit, guides, and porters. But day hikes in Pokhara do not need an extensive plan, longer travel time, just take a cab and pack your day bag, and commence your hike.
Key Highlights
- Breathtaking view of the Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Range, and beautiful Mountain Machhapuchhre (fishtail)
- Easy access from your hotel in the lakeside area.
- Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
- Perfect activities for families and short-term travellers.
- An opportunity to explore local culture, lifestyle, tradition, and villages
Sarangkot Day Hiking Route
The Sarangkot hike is an opportunity to enjoy your day in Pokhara with the mesmerizing view of the snowy peaks, the entire Pokhara valley, and Phewa Lake. Sarangkot is also popular for the sunrise and sunset views, so each day hundreds of travellers visit there. It is situated at an elevation of 1600 meters above sea level and approximately 10 KM from Lakeside Pokhara. This day hike is one of the most recommended hiking routes in Pokhara.
Key Hiking Details
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Stating and ending point: Bindhyabasini
Best time: Spring (March, April, and May), Autumn (September, October, and November), Winter (December, January, and February)
While hiking up to Sarangkot, we will mostly walk on the blacktop road, and there are tea houses and stops for refreshing and breaks. The views, including the Mountain, villages, flora, and fauna, will make it an easy and beautiful day hike in Pokhara.
World Peace Pagoda / Shanti Stupa Hike
The World Peace Pagoda or Shanti Stupa hike is one of the most scenic and pleasant hikes around Pokhara. Will cross the lake in the boat and begin hiking up inside the peaceful jungle. While hiking up will encounter various flora and fauna, and walk through some villages. Once you reach the top can enjoy the panoramic vistas of snowy peaks, the Pokhara valley, and Phewa Lake.
Key Hiking Details
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy
Hiking route: Crossing Phewa Lake or driving the pathway.
Best time: Spring (March, April, and May), Autumn (September, October, and November), Winter (December, January, and February)
The peaceful atmosphere on top of the hill and the World Peace Pagoda is the perfect place for meditation and self-reflection. This is a classic short hike in Pokhara perfect for beginners, families, and short time spender in Pokhara who want to have a peaceful hiking experience.
Australian Camp Hike
Australian Camp is a beautiful Hill station which offers a magnificent view of the snowy peaks, including Machhapuchhre and more. This day hike near Pokhara ofter can often be combined with Dhampus for longer hours of hiking. This is suitable for families, short-term visitors, and student groups. Also, this is one of the best camping sites near Pokhara for an overnight stay with your loved one.
Key Hiking Details
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty level: easy to moderate
Hiking route: Kande to Aistralian Camp
Best time: Spring (March, April, and May), Autumn (September, October, and November), Winter (December, January, and February)
This is one of the most attractive short hikes in Pokhara among international tourists. It is renowned for its panoramic view of the Annapurna Range, peaceful forest trails, and short drive distance from Pokhara.
Begnas Lake to Sundari Danda Hike
Begnas Lake is the second biggest and most popular lake in Pokhara. Which is suited for around 30 minutes drive from the crowded lakeside or Phewa Lake. Hiking from Begnas Lake to Sundari Danda is a less crowded and off-the-beaten-path day hike in Pokhara.
Key Hiking Details
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Starting point: Begnas Lake, 30 minutes drive from the lakeside of Pokhara.
Best time: Spring (March, April, and May), Autumn (September, October, and November), Winter (December, January, and February)
This day hiking route in Pokhara is suitable for those who are looking for a view of Begnas Lake, an authentic rural lifestyle, and less commercialized hiking routes in Pokhara.
Pumdikot Day Hike
Pumdikot is getting popular among the local visitors because of the giant statue of lord Shiva and other local attractions nearby. Also showly getting popular among international travelers because it can be hiked together with the World Peace Pagoda for a spiritual journey for both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimages. It is around 8 to 10 kilometers for both way trip, depending on the hike starting point. Most of the hikers start from Lakeside Pokhara, and even so of them drive to World Peace Pagoda and hike up to Pumdikot hill station.
Key Hiking Details
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Starting point: Begnas Lake, 30 minutes drive from the lakeside of Pokhara.
Best time: Spring (March, April, and May), Autumn (September, October, and November), Winter (December, January, and February)
This hike is appropriate for those who like to combine spirituality with Mountain vistas. So this day hike near Pokhara is a perfect escape into nature and religion.
Naudanda Day Hiking
The name Naudamda literally means Nine Hills, so imagine how beautiful it is. Naudanda Day Hike offers the scenic highland walk, charming villages, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking Mountain glimpse. This hike is a less crowded alternative hiking routes to the famous hiking trails, which is perfect for those who want to stay away for a day from busy tourist routes in Pokhara for a day.
Key Hiking Details
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Starting point: Sarangkot or Kaskikot
Best time: Spring (March, April, and May), Autumn (September, October, and November), Winter (December, January, and February)
Pack your bag lightly, tie your shoelaces, and be ready to do one of the best day hikes in Pokhara, the Naudanda Hike.
Dhampus Village Hike
Dhampus Village is one of the beautiful Gurung villages at the lap of the Annapurna Himalayan Range. Hiking to Dhampus village is one of the best short and easy hikes near Pokhara – perfect for those who are seeking a quick Himalayan cultural experience without doing a long Trek and drive. This hike offers mesmerizing Himalayan views, a typical Gurung village lifestyle, and the best day hike in Pokhara.
Key Hiking Details
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Altitude: 1650m above sea level.
Best time: Spring (March, April, and May), Autumn (September, October, and November), Winter (December, January, and February)
Start and ending point: Phedi/ Ghatekulo
Hiking to Dhampus gives you an opportunity to be close to Gurung culture and tradition. Will walk through the terraced farm land, forests, and stone stairs walking trails. Also stunning vistas of the Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Range, and Machhapuchhre Himal (Fishtail)
Conclusion – The best day hike in Pokhara
Pokhara – the adventure paradise and chill-out station for every traveller. Whatever you are looking for, Bungee Jumping, Zip Lining, Paragliding, White Water Rafting, or Hot Air Balloon, and for an immersive day hiking experience or a peaceful and authentic short hike in Pokhara, and it offers something for everyone. From the most popular viewpoints like Sarangkot to pleasant trails around Begnas Lake and Naudanda, each route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
If you are in Pokhara after completing the Annapurna Region Treks, or just going to Pokhara for a couple of days, make sure to do any day hikes in Pokhara in your trip schedule – You won’t be disappointed.
