Hiking From Pokhara

Hiking from Pokhara is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Nepal without committing to a long, multi-day trek.

Pokhara sits at around 827 meters above sea level and lies directly beneath the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. This unique position makes the city one of the few places in the world where you can start a hike just minutes after leaving your hotel and walk to viewpoints at 1,500 to 2,100 meters within a few hours.

Most hikes in this region take 3 to 7 hours, cover 6 to 14 kilometres, and remain below 2,200 meters, ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience with no risk of altitude sickness.

What makes hiking from Pokhara special is that even short hikes provide views of Annapurna South at 7,219 meters, Hiunchuli at 6,441 meters, Machhapuchhre at 6,993 meters, and the complete Dhaulagiri–Annapurna–Manaslu range on clear days.

It is a near-perfect destination for beginners, families, photographers, and travellers using Pokhara as an acclimatization base.

1. Astam Village Hike

The hike to Astam Village is one of the best short hikes in the entire Pokhara Valley. The village sits at an elevation of around 1,586 meters, offering one of the clearest ridge-top views of Machhapuchhre.

From Pokhara, the trail usually begins near Hemja or Milan Chowk and gradually climbs through terraced fields, stone steps, and traditional Gurung settlements.

Key facts:

Altitude: 1,586 meters
Duration: 4 to 6 hours round trip
Distance: about 8 to 10 kilometres
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Astam is famous for its calm ridge, golden sunset views, and rustic homestays. On clear days, the entire Annapurna wall stands right in front of you as if drawn with perfect symmetry. It is ideal for travelers who want Himalayan scenery without steep climbs or long trekking schedules.

2. Kaskikot and Sarangkot Ridge Walk

Sarangkot is one of Pokhara’s well-known viewpoints, but instead of taking the usual road or cable car, many hikers choose the Kaskikot–Sarangkot ridge walk. Kaskikot sits near 1,600 meters and offers sweeping views of the Annapurna range, Phewa Lake and the city of Pokhara.

Key facts:

Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Distance: 10 km
Highest point: 1,600 meters

The ridge walk passes through pine forests, small farming villages and traditional lookout points used by the Kaski kings centuries ago. Sunrise from Sarangkot often lights up Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South with bright orange colours, making it a dream for photographers.

3. Australian Camp Day Hike

Australian Camp sits at 2,100 meters, making it one of the highest day hiking points near Pokhara.

The trail begins from Kande at 1,700 meters and climbs through rhododendron forests and stone staircases.

Key facts:

Duration: 2 to 3 hours up, 4 to 5 hours total
Elevation gain: 400 meters
Views: Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre

The viewpoint is popular for sunrise and sunset. On clear days, you can see the entire Annapurna Range stretching across the horizon like a giant Himalayan wall.

This is a perfect warm-up hike for longer treks in the Annapurna Region.

4. Dhampus Village Hike

Dhampus lies at around 1,650 meters and is one of the best short hikes for travelers seeking culture and mountain scenery together. The village is primarily Gurung, and its traditional stone houses overlook the full Annapurna massif.

Key facts:

Distance: 7 km from Phedi
Duration: 2 to 3 hours of steady climbing
Altitude: 1,650 meters

The Dhampus viewpoint gives direct views of several major peaks, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal Ridge. The trail is beginner-friendly and suits families and casual hikers.

5. Peace Pagoda Hike (World Peace Stupa)

Standing at 1,100 meters, the Peace Pagoda is an iconic symbol of calm overlooking Pokhara. The hike begins near the lakeside and involves a moderate climb through forest trails and stone steps.

Key facts:

Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Distance: 5 km one way
Highlights: Stunning view of Phewa Lake, Pokhara skyline and Annapurna range

It is one of the easiest and most rewarding half-day hikes in Pokhara.

6. Naudanda Ridge Walk

Naudanda sits at around 1,500 meters, offering vast views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The ridge is long, open, and ideal for hikers who want a full-day experience without steep altitude gain.

Key facts:

Distance: 12–15 km
Duration: 5 to 7 hours
Views: Machhapuchhre, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Mt. Lamjung

This hike is calm, crowd-free, and great for travellers looking for photogenic landscapes.

Why Hiking From Pokhara is Special

Hiking around Pokhara offers more than short walking experiences. It is the doorway to the entire Annapurna Region, one of the most famous trekking circuits in the world.

With the city acting as the base for Annapurna Region Trekking, hikers can choose from dozens of short hikes, warm-up routes, and ridge walks before taking on longer treks.

Key highlights:

Altitude range: 1,000 m to 2,200 m
Trail length: 5 to 15 km
Duration: 2 to 7 hours
7,000 m peaks visible from multiple day hikes
Culturally rich villages and traditional homestays
Suitable for all fitness levels

In a single day, you can leave Pokhara city, climb forest paths, meet local communities, take in Himalayan views, and return to your hotel by evening