Siklesh Village Trek
Trek Details
Max Altitude:
The maximum altitude for the Sikles Village trek typically ranges from around 1,980m (Sikles village itself) up to about 2,200m (at points like Nyauli Kharka or Forest Camp), making it an easy, low-altitude trek with minimal risk of altitude sickness, suitable for beginners and families, offering great cultural immersion and Annapurna views.
Location: Nepal (Annapurna Foothills Region)
Estimated Price: $250-$600 (Depending on package, group size and desired number of days, excursions and amenities).
All treks are customizable.
Number of days: ~5-11 (shorter directly from Pokhara or combine days)
Season:
The best seasons for the Sikles village trek are Spring (March-May) for blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery, and Autumn (September-November) for clear skies, stable weather, and spectacular mountain views. While possible year-round, Winter (December-February) offers fewer crowds but cold temperatures, and Monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rains, slippery trails, and leeches, making it generally less recommended.
A Sikles Village Trek itinerary typically involves 5-7 days of trekking from Pokhara, exploring traditional Gurung villages like Sikles, Ghale Gaon, and Kalikasthan, offering stunning views of Annapurna ranges, rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and natural hot springs (Kharpani), with routes often incorporating Kapuche Glacier Lake or Tara Hilltop for panoramic vistas before returning to Pokhara, blending cultural immersion with accessible Himalayan scenery.
Key Highlights & Variations:
Cultural Immersion: Stay in lodges or homestays in Gurung villages.
Kapuche Lake Extension: Add a day hike from Sikles to Kapuche Glacier Lake, Nepal’s lowest glacial lake.
Hot Springs: Visit natural hot springs at Kharpani.
Views: Experience close-up views of Annapurna II, IV, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Accessibility: A good option for short treks in the Annapurna foothills, avoiding overcrowded trails.
Itinerary
Days 1-2:
Arrive in Kathmandu, sightseeing, and preparation. Welcome dinner with guide.
Day 3: Flight/Bus to Pokhara
Day 4: Drive Pokhara to Bhurjung Khola, Trek to Ghale Kharka (Approx. 30 min drive, 5-6 hrs trek).
Day 5: Ghale Kharka to Tara Hilltop (6-7 hrs trek).
Day 6: Tara Hilltop to Sikles Village (5-6 hrs trek).
Day 7: Sikles Village to Yangjakot (5-6 hrs trek).
Day 8: Yangjakot to Kalikasthan (4-5 hrs trek).
Day 9: Kalikasthan to Begnas Lake & Drive to Pokhara (3-4 hrs trek, 1 hr drive).
Days 8/11: Return back to Kathmandu or to next planned region/excursion.