Introduction
Pokhara, regarded as the tourist capital of Nepal, is the gateway to the world-famous Annapurna region. With multiple mountains towering over 7000 meters, Pokhara attracts many tourists who climb these mountains or simply trek to their base camps. Pokhara is also famous for its lakes, which add to the beauty of this region. While Pokhara is associated with longer treks like the Annapurna Base camp trek or the Dhaulagiri trek, there are numerous short treks around Pokhara that can be completed within 5 days.
These short treks are ideal for people who are short on time but willing to hike for days to see the beauty of this region. Additionally, these treks allow trekkers to experience the rich cultural diversity of these places. These short treks pass through villages and small settlements that add a spiritual element to the treks. The ancient Buddhist monasteries and Indigenous people around this area reflect the region’s rich history. Let’s look into some of the best short treks beginning from Pokhara.
Dhampus-Australian Base Camp
The Dhampus to Australian Base Camp trek is a short trek around Pokhara. You can complete this trek by customizing the start point. If you choose to start from Pokhara, the trek will last seven days, but we suggest you start in Kande.
You can drive to Kande from Pokhara. It will take you around 1.5 hours to reach Kande. Enjoy the beautiful panoramic view along the way. Then, you can hike up to Dhampus. The initial climb is steep but rewarding, with terraced fields and local villages. You can reach Dhampus by noon, a traditional Gurung Village known for its hospitality and stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains. You can enjoy a delicious traditional meal at a teahouse in the evening.
On the second day, you can start ascending to Australian Base Camp. The trail is gentle and not too strenuous, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery around this place. You arrive at the Australian base camp after 2 hours. In the afternoon, you can take a short walk through the jungle surrounding the camp. From here, you’ll glimpse the great Annapurna Massif with numerous towering peaks. You can spend the night here.
On the final day, you can hike from the Australian Base camp to Phedi and then back to Pokhara.
Highlights of the Dhampus-Australian Base Camp Trek:
- Trip Duration: 3 days
- Trip’s Maximum Elevation: 2000 meters
- Starting Point: Pokhara
- Ending Point: Australian Base Camp
Khopra Ridge Trek
Recently gaining popularity, the Khopra Ridge Trek is located in the Annapurna region. It is one of the hidden gems among the popular trekking routes, and it takes you along an isolated route among the busy and crowded trails. Moreover, the rural villages, fast-flowing rivers, farmlands, and walks through the rhododendron forests add nature’s touch along the trail. This 5-day trek from Pokhara is a must-visit trek around the Annapurna region.
On the first day, you’ll drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. From there, you’ll start the trek towards Ghandruk and ascend through well-marked trails and small villages. You’ll also experience the local culture and tradition in this region. The trek is not too challenging on the first day. You arrive at Ghandruk, one of the most beautiful villages in the Annapurna region.
On the second day, begin your journey towards Tadapani from Ghandruk. Start early and reach Tadapani in about 3-4 hours. After having lunch in Tadapani, continue towards Bayeli Kharka. The trail ascends uphill through alpine forests. After walking for a few hours, you’ll reach Bayeli Kharka, where you can spend the night at one of the community homestays.
On the third day, begin your ascent towards the Khopra Ridge. From Bayeli Kharka, it’ll take 5-6 hours to reach Khopra Ridge (3660m). Along the way, you will also glimpse Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and South Annapurna. You can spend the day walking around the ridge and exploring the surroundings of this region. You can spend the night at one of the tea houses in Khopra Ridge.
On the fourth day, head towards Swanta from Khopra Ridge. The trail offers more beautiful views as you pass through alpine forests and small settlements. You can spend the night at Swanta. On the final day, head towards Ulleri, where you can take a bus and drive back to Pokhara, enjoying the beautiful countryside roads and landscapes.
Highlights of the Khopra Ridge Trek:
- Trip Duration: 5 days
- Trip’s Maximum Elevation: 3660 meters
- Starting Point: Pokhara
- Ending Point: Khopra Ridge
Kapuche Glacial Lake Trek
Located 2546 meters above sea level, Kapuche Glacier Lake is in the SIkles region. The locals claim it is the lowest glacial lake in the world. The lake’s surface can turn into ice during winter, and its temperature can reach sub-zero. The lake has a serene and tranquil environment. This 4-—to 5-day trek is one of Nepal’s most underrated treks. This trek route is one of the least traveled trails, so you will enjoy this trek without being disturbed by the crowd.
From Pokhara, you’ll travel to Sikles, the largest Gurung community village. You can explore this beautiful village. You can spend the night in Sikles, enjoying traditional Nepali cuisine. On the second day, we head towards Hugu Goth, which comes before Kapuche. Hugu has an ancient settlement with animal husbandry as a means of livelihood at 2,100 meters elevation. You can spend the night at a tea house in Hugu. This hike can be challenging but is rewarding.
From Hugu, you can head towards Kapuche, a 2-hour trek. You can explore this beautiful lake and hike back to Hugu, where you can spend the night. On the last day, begin your hike towards Sikles, which takes about 6 hours. Have your lunch at Sikles and finally drive back to Pokhara.
Highlights of the Kapuche Glacial Lake Trek:
- Trip Duration: 4 days
- Trip’s Maximum Elevation: 2546 meters
- Starting Point: Pokhara
- Ending Point: Kapuche Lake
Also Read: Picturesque 3-Day Treks In Nepal: A Complete Guide
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