Gorkha to Pokhara Trekking
Experience a scenic mid-hills trek combining riverside villages, terraced fields, lush forests, and panoramic Himalayan views of Annapurna, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal. A culturally rich journey through Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin communities, ending with relaxation in Pokhara’s lakeside paradise.
Country
Nepal
Duration
12 Days
Difficulty
Easy
Trip Type
Trekking
Max Altitude
1,370m / 4,495ft
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Accomodation
3***Hotel + Logde accommodation on twin sharing bed basis during the Trekking.
Meals
All meals (Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast) with cup of hot drinks during the trekking.
Start/End Point
Kathmandu
Highlights & Overview
Scenic drive through Trisuli & Marsyangdi valleysRiverside villages and terraced farmlandsPalungtar mango & orange orchardsAnnapurna, Manaslu & Lamjung Himal viewsMadi River swimming opportunitiesSyaklung Gurung & Magar cultureSunset views from Kalikasthan ridgeRelaxing end in Pokhara lakeside
A 25 kilometer road off the main highway connecting Pokhara and Kathmandu brings you to the ancient Gorkha – the untouched and captivating town of Nepal. Gorkha to Pokhara Trek is an easy low altitude trek providing a wonderful insight into Nepalese rural life with only few uphill climbs. In fact, the trail from Gorkha to Pokhara is an ancient highway of bygone days from the 18th century, connecting western Nepal.
However, there are many alternative routes of the Gorkha to Pokhara trek. On one hand, the northern route provides a trek close to the mountains of Manaslu (7945m), Himalchuli, and Buddha Himal (6674m). Especially the side trip to Baraha Pokhari, a fine high-altitude lake, is worth this route. On the other hand, the more direct southern route to Pokhara allows a visit to the ancient town of Gorkha with its large Bazaar. This low altitude trek route attracts novice trekkers and walkers and nature lovers because of its lower altitude. You can enjoy very good views of the Himalayas without actually having to ascend.
Gorkha to Pokhara Trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,370m)
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Nature Trail representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. In the evening, attend a pre-trip briefing with your trek leader and enjoy a welcome dinner with authentic Nepali cuisine.
Max Altitude
1,370m / 4,495ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Breakfast
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Zerokilo via Abu Khaireni, trek to Simalghari (800m)
After breakfast, drive for about 5 hours through the Trisuli and Marsyangdi valleys, passing terraced fields and riverside villages before reaching Zerokilo. From here, begin your trek to Simalghari, a charming village on the bank of the Daraundi River with a local school and market.
Max Altitude
800m / 2,625ft
Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 3: Trek Simalghari to Palungtar (1,050m)
Trek along flat terrain with views of snow-covered peaks in the distance. The trail passes through terraced farmlands and villages before reaching Palungtar, a lively settlement with mango and orange orchards.
Walking time: 5 hours
Max Altitude
1,050m / 3,445ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 4: Trek Palungtar to Tarkughat (1,000m)
A scenic day of walking through small villages and grazing fields. Arrive at Tarkughat on the banks of the Marshyangdi River, where you can enjoy swimming or relaxing by the water.
Walking time: 6 hours
Max Altitude
1,000m / 3,280ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 5: Trek Tarkughat to Kunchha (1,221m)
Ascend through terraced fields and markets, passing tea shops at Tuhure Pasaal before reaching Kunchha village, known for stunning views of Manaslu, Lamjung, and the Annapurna range. Sunset here is especially breathtaking.
Walking time: 6 hours
Max Altitude
1,221m / 4,006ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 6: Trek Kunchha to Sisaghat (870m)
Descend through millet and maize fields to reach Sisaghat, a riverside settlement on the Madi River. Swimming opportunities and peaceful scenery make this a refreshing stop.
Walking time: 7 hours
Max Altitude
870m / 2,854ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 7: Trek Sisaghat to Karputaar (490m)
Walk along the Madi River through terraced fields and traditional villages. Karputaar is a small settlement of mixed ethnic groups, surrounded by fertile farmland.
Walking time: 6.5 hours
Max Altitude
490m / 1,607ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 8: Trek Karputaar to Syaklung (1,100m)
A challenging uphill trek through forests and streams. Arrive at Syaklung, a Gurung and Magar village offering panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Mardi Peak, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal.
Walking time: 6 hours
Max Altitude
1,100m / 3,609ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 9: Trek Syaklung to Kalikasthan (1,300m)
Follow a ridge-top trail through forests and traditional villages to Kalikasthan, home to a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Spectacular sunset views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges make this a rewarding stop.
Walking time: 5 hours
Max Altitude
1,300m / 4,265ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 10: Trek Kalikasthan to Bijayapur Khola (900m) and Drive to Pokhara
Descend gradually through villages and terraced farmland to Bijayapur Khola. After lunch, drive to Pokhara, Nepal’s lakeside paradise.
Max Altitude
900m / 2,953ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 11: Drive or Fly Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,370m)
Drive back to Kathmandu (7 hours) through scenic valleys, or opt for a 25-minute flight. Free evening in Kathmandu.
Max Altitude
1,370m / 4,495ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu (1,370m)
Our representative will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. Bid farewell to Nepal with unforgettable memories of your trek.
Max Altitude
1,370m / 4,495ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Breakfast
Price Includes
Transportation to trekking starting point and from ending pointTrekking Information Management System Fee (TIMS Fee)National park Conservation FeeLodge trek with all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and accommodation in tea house lodge.Services of English speaking trekking guide and porter (one porter for two people and the maximum weight carry by one porter is total 25kg)Accommodation, meals, insurance, equipment and allowance of guide and porter.Sleeping bag and down jacket if necessary.All applicable government taxes and service charges.Price Doesn't Include
Any accommodation and meals in KathmanduAny sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.Any international and domestic airfareYour personal travel insurance and medical.Bottled drinks (mineral water, any cold drinks, and alcoholic drinks).Expenses of personal nature such as tips for guide, porter, and driver, laundry, bar bill, telephone calls etc.Liability for expenses against sickness, flight cancellation, road blockage, accidents, and other occurrence, beyond our control.Nepal visa fee.Any other optional services not mentioned above as included.Packing Lists
Cloathing
Moisture-wicking base layers (top & bottom)Trekking shirts (lightweight, quick-dry)Fleece jacket / insulated mid-layerWaterproof & windproof jacketTrekking pants (convertible preferred)Warm hat & sunhatGloves (light + warm pair)Hiking socks (4–5 pairs)Comfortable trekking boots + camp shoesGears
Backpack (40–50L) + rain coverSleeping bag (rated -10°C recommended)Trekking polesHeadlamp with extra batteriesReusable water bottle or hydration systemWater purification tablets or filterSunglasses with UV protectionQuick-dry towelPersonal Items
Sunscreen & lip balm with SPFPersonal toiletries & wet wipesFirst aid kit + personal medicationInsect repellentCamera / smartphone with power bankPassport copies & permitsOther Items You Can Bring
Lightweight snacks (nuts, energy bars)Journal or bookUniversal adapter & chargersSmall cash for local purchasesTrekking map or GPS app