Overview:

Recently gaining popularity, the Sikles region is an underrated gem of the Annapurna region. Sikles is one of the biggest Gurung villages in the country. The trail takes you through small villages, dense forests, and high-altitude hills. From the trail, you can get mesmerizing views of the mountains of the Annapurna Region. The famous Ghorepani Poonhill and Annapurna Base Camp treks often overshadow this beautiful trek.

This trek provides a quieter and more serene journey, ideal for those seeking solitude. Unlike its famous counterparts, this trek usually has fewer people on it. You can also camp in various locations along the trail, as it is popular here. It provides a unique and raw experience for your trek. Many people often consider this trek as the shorter and more beautiful version of the Annapurna region. Along the way, you can encounter waterfalls, streams, rivers, and caves, making this trek picturesque. Sikles Trek is perfect for people with moderate levels of trekking and fitness experience. In this article, let’s explore this amazing trek in detail.

Some Important Information Of The Sikles Trek:

  • Trek Duration: 4 days
  • Trek’s Maximum Elevation: 2500-2700 meters
  • Location: Kaski District, Annapurna Region, Nepal
  • Trek Difficulty: Easy
  • Best Time: All year long

Highlights Of The Sikles Trek:

  1. Sikles Village’s Gurung Culture: One of the major highlights of this trek is the unique and beautiful Gurung Culture trekkers experience in Sikles. You can experience the traditional lifestyle, culture, and hospitality of the Gurung people of Sikles village. The village offers a glimpse into the local culture, architecture, and daily life. The well-preserved Gurung culture in this region is a unique experience.
  2. Stunning Mountain Views: Trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna, Lamjung, and Machchapuchhre mountains. Various viewpoints are available along the way to Sikles. As you ascend towards Sikles, you can see changing views and landscapes. This trek is popular for its unobstructed views of the mountains, especially in the autumn and spring seasons. The clear skies make this one of the most picturesque treks in Nepal.
  3. Waterfalls and Rivers: Throughout the journey, you will encounter many streams, rivers, and high waterfalls. These water bodies’ flowing waters are music to your ears as you walk. If you are tired and want to refill your water bottles, you can do that as well. Such waterfalls create perfect photography opportunities for enthusiasts.
  4. Less Crowded Trails: Compared to other treks in the Annapurna region, this trek is usually less crowded. As it is an underrated place, it is a peaceful and serene experience. People traveling solo can enjoy this amazing trek.
  5. Easy Difficulty: This trek is easier than others in the Annapurna region. It is suitable for various fitness levels, making it accessible to beginners wanting to experience the Himalayan experience. It is also shorter than other popular treks.
Sikles Village
Sikles Village (Source: Facebook)

 

`Brief Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Pokhara to Ghale Kharka—On the first day, you will drive from Pokhara to Ghale Kharla. This scenic drive, which is fairly easy and offers countryside views, will give you plenty of views of the Annapurna region. This day can be completed leisurely, and you can explore the traditional Gurung culture in one of the villages.
  • Day 2: Ghale Kharka to Sikles—On the second day, you will start walking towards Sikles. Today, you will have a gentle uphill trek. On this day, you must walk for 4-5 hours to reach Sikles. You can enjoy the local food served by the Gurung people. You can also immerse yourself in the local tradition by watching their dance and witnessing their daily activities.
  • Day 3: Sikles to Taprang—The third day of your trek is the most picturesque, as you will walk through dense rhododendron forests and small rivers. In the evening, you can easily reach Taprang and enjoy the panoramas of the Annapurna range. You will stay overnight at Taprang.
  • Day 4: Taprang to Pokhara—On the last day of your trek, you can return to Pokhara from Taprang. The descent is not too strenuous and can be leisurely completed while enjoying the majestic mountain scenery.

How To Prepare

You won’t need any permits or cards to trek in this region, so acquiring them is not necessary. The trek is not too strenuous, so you can easily complete it. Hence, a moderate fitness level is enough for this trek. Accommodation is also not a problem for this trek, as there are plenty of teahouses, lodges, and hotels throughout the trail.

Also Read: Complete Guide To Mardi Himal Trek: Route & Tips