How much time have you got? If you are looking to get into the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas without investing days in trekking and you are in Pokhara then here is the list of 5 short treks near Pokhara which includes the Sarangkot, Peace Pagoda trek, Dhampus Village trek, Begnas trek, and Naudanda trek.
Several short treks around Pokhara can be completed in a day. So, if you are pressed for time or just want to stretch your legs, these treks are perfect for a quick escape to nature. In this post, we will talk about the 5 best short treks around Pokhara that you should not miss! Here are our top 5 picks for one-day treks near Pokhara, each offering a unique experience:
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1. Sarangkot Trek (Beautiful short treks near Pokhara)
If you want to catch the iconic sunrise over the Himalayas but don’t have time for a long trek? The Sarangkot trek is your short trek near Pokhara.
The Sarangkot Trek is perfect for you! Start early in the morning and trek up to Sarangkot Hill, famous for its panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This 5-6 hour round trip from Pokhara is an ideal one-day adventure. As you climb, you’ll pass through small villages and lush greenery, with the Himalayas as your backdrop. Watch the sunrise at the top and see the surrounding mountain range turn the snow-capped peak a golden red if you are lucky enough and choose the appropriate season.
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How do you go to the Sarangkot?
- Starting Point: Pokhara
- Route: The trail ascends through small villages and terraced fields, leading to Sarangkot Hill.
- Time: Approximately 2-3 hours to the summit and 2-3 hours to return.
Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition conducted a group to Sarangkot recently. We started our journey in the early morning and enthusiasm increased on every step. The trail was steep but we were granted breaks at amazing views very frequently. The sky turned light as we approached the top, where the sun was about to rise. We reached the destination within the time limit and the view was breathtaking as the sun kissed the mountains with its golden rays. We started back on the same path, with stories, tales, and of course photographs…! It was really a heavenly view and we were lucky enough to witness such a splendid scene.
2. Peace Pagoda Trek
The Peace Pagoda Trek is just what you need if you are willing to finish your trek in a day! This trek offers a serene journey to the World Peace Pagoda, a stunning monument symbolizing peace and unity. Start with a boat ride across Phewa Lake, then hike through lush forests to the pagoda. This 4-5 hour round trip rewards you with panoramic views of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna range.
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How do you go to the Peace Pagoda?
- Starting Point: Phewa Lake, Pokhara
- Transport: Take a boat ride across Phewa Lake to the base of the Peace Pagoda.
- Route: The trail ascends through a forested path to the World Peace Pagoda.
- Time: 30-minute boat ride, 1.5-2 hour hike to the pagoda, and 1.5-2 hours return.
On a recent trek with Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition, our group loved the Peace Pagoda Trek. The calm boat ride set the perfect tone, and the hike through the forest was refreshing. As we climbed, we caught glimpses of Pokhara and the lake below. Reaching the pagoda, we were rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of peace. The pagoda’s serenity and the panoramic scenery made this trek a highlight of our trip.
3. Dhampus Village Trek
Want to experience traditional Nepali life and stunning mountain views but short on time?
The Dhampus Village Trek is perfect! This 6-7 hour round trip takes you through charming villages and terraced fields, offering cultural immersion and natural beauty. Dhampus village, with its stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks, is a gem. Experience the rich Gurung culture along the way.
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How do you go to the Dhampus Village?
- Starting Point: Phedi, about 30 minutes from Pokhara
- Transport: Take a taxi or local bus to Phedi.
- Route: The trail ascends through terraced fields and forests to Dhampus village.
- Time: 3-4 hours to reach Dhampus, 3-4 hours to return.
During a recent expedition with Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition, we were warmly welcomed in Dhampus Village. Starting from Phedi, we climbed through fields and forests, with stunning mountain views along the way. In Dhampus, the traditional Gurung houses and friendly locals made us feel at home. We shared a meal with a local family, enjoying homemade Dal Bhat and learning about their lives. This cultural exchange and the village’s beauty made the trek unforgettable.
4. Begnas Lake Trek
This trek is for those who want a peaceful trek away from the crowds.
The Begnas Lake Trek offers tranquility and natural beauty. This 5-6 hour round trip takes you to Begnas Lake, a less-visited gem compared to Phewa Lake. The trail winds through forests, villages, and terraced fields, ending at the pristine waters of Begnas Lake – perfect for a quiet picnic or fishing.
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How do you go to the Begnas Lake?
- Starting Point: Begnas Lake, about 15 km east of Pokhara
- Transport: Take a taxi or local bus to Begnas Lake.
- Route: The trek starts from the lake area, winding through forests and villages.
- Time: 2-3 hours to reach the lake, 2-3 hours to return.
Our group at Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition found the Begnas Lake Trek to be a serene escape. We started early, taking a taxi to Begnas Lake. The trail was peaceful, with the sounds of nature all around us. Passing through villages, we met friendly locals curious about our journey. The lake’s calm waters and the reflection of the mountains created a picturesque scene. We spent the afternoon relaxing by the lake, enjoying a picnic, and even fishing. It was a perfect, tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Pokhara.
5. Naudanda Trek
Want a moderately challenging trek with cultural insights and natural beauty?
The Naudanda Trek is your answer! This 7-8 hour round trip offers panoramic views and cultural encounters. The trail passes through several villages, providing glimpses of local life and stunning mountain views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.
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How do you go to the Naudanda?
- Starting Point: Naudanda, about 23 km from Pokhara
- Transport: Take a taxi or local bus to Naudanda.
- Route: The trek starts from Naudanda, passing through villages with breathtaking views.
- Time: 3-4 hours to reach the main viewpoint, 3-4 hours to return.
On a recent trek with Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition, the Naudanda Trek offered the perfect mix of challenge and reward. Starting from Naudanda, the trail’s ups and downs kept things interesting. We passed through several villages, interacting with locals and learning about their way of life. The summit provided panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, making the effort worthwhile. The descent offered different perspectives and continued cultural interactions, making this trek unforgettable.
Choosing the right one-day hike can be overwhelming. With so many options, it’s easy to get lost in the details. We understand this at Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. That’s why we’ve curated this list based on our local expertise and years of guiding experience.
