Best Treks from Pokhara in 2026: The Complete Guide

Pokhara has long been known as the trekking capital of Nepal. Nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake and framed by the dramatic Annapurna range, this beautiful city is the starting point for some of the most iconic Himalayan adventures. Whether you are a beginner seeking a short scenic hike or an experienced trekker dreaming of high mountain passes, Pokhara offers something for everyone.

As we move into 2026, trekking from Pokhara is becoming even more attractive thanks to improved trails, better accommodation, safer routes, and a growing focus on eco-friendly tourism. If you are planning a Himalayan adventure, this guide will help you discover the best treks from Pokhara in 2026, along with practical tips, costs, seasons, and safety advice.

Trekking Around Pokhara Rim: A Growing Trend in 2026

For travelers who want stunning Himalayan views without going deep into remote high-altitude regions, trekking around Pokhara rim is one of the best options in 2026.

The “Pokhara Rim” refers to the hills surrounding Pokhara Valley that offer panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri while staying at relatively low elevations. These treks are perfect for:

• Beginners
• Families
• Older travelers
• Luxury or comfort trekkers
• Short-holiday visitors

Why Start Your Trek from Pokhara?

Pokhara is more than just a pretty lakeside city — it is the gateway to the Annapurna region. Here’s why trekkers love starting from Pokhara:

Easy Access to Major Trails

Most Annapurna trekking routes begin within a few hours’ drive from Pokhara. This means less travel time and more time on the trail.

Stunning Natural Setting

Few cities in the world offer such close views of 8,000-meter peaks. On a clear day, you can see Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare right from the city.

Excellent Infrastructure

Pokhara has an international airport, quality hotels, trekking shops, and experienced guides. Last-minute planning is easy here.

Ideal Acclimatization Point

At around 800 meters altitude, Pokhara provides a comfortable starting point before heading higher.

Wide Range of Trekking Services

Quick Comparisons

From budget to luxury, Pokhara offers guides, porters, agencies, and gear rentals for every style of trekking.

Top 10 Best Treks from Pokhara in 2026

1. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC Trek)

The Annapurna Base Camp trek remains one of Nepal’s most loved adventures. It takes you through terraced fields, bamboo forests, and traditional Gurung villages before reaching the natural amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp.

Highlights:

• 360° mountain panorama
• Machapuchare Base Camp
• Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda

Best for: Trekkers wanting a classic Himalayan experience without extreme difficulty.

Why popular in 2026: Improved teahouses and better trail management make it more comfortable than ever.

2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

This is one of the best short treks from Pokhara. The sunrise from Poon Hill is legendary, offering golden views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.

Highlights:

• Easy access
• Colorful rhododendron forests
• Ideal introduction to trekking

Best for: Beginners, families, and time-limited travelers.

3. Mardi Himal Trek

Once a hidden trail, Mardi Himal is now a favorite for those wanting fewer crowds and dramatic ridge walks.

Highlights:

• Close-up Machapuchare views
• Peaceful trails
• Compact duration

Best for: Trekkers seeking a quieter alternative to ABC.

4. Annapurna Circuit (Short Version)

The Annapurna Circuit is legendary. While road construction has changed parts of it, the high sections remain spectacular.

Highlights:

• Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
• Diverse landscapes
• Cultural diversity

Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking variety.

5. Khopra Ridge Trek

A fantastic off-the-beaten-path trek, Khopra Ridge offers stunning views without the crowds.

Highlights:

• Khayer Lake side trip
• Community lodges
• Deep mountain views

Best for: Nature lovers wanting solitude.

6. Mohare Danda Trek

Known as the eco-trek, Mohare Danda supports local communities and sustainable tourism.

Highlights:

• Eco-lodges
• Sunrise mountain views
• Cultural immersion

Best for: Responsible travelers.

7. Ghandruk Village Trek

Short, cultural, and scenic, Ghandruk is perfect for those wanting a taste of trekking.

Highlights:

• Gurung culture
• Traditional stone houses
• Annapurna views

Best for: Cultural explorers.

8. Australian Camp Trek

A quick escape from Pokhara, ideal for those with limited time.

Highlights:

• Panoramic views
• Comfortable lodges
• Easy trails

Best for: First-time trekkers.

9. Kapuche Lake Trek

Kapuche is the world’s lowest glacier lake and a newly popular destination.

Highlights:

• Unique glacial lake
• Less crowded route
• Raw natural beauty

Best for: Adventurous trekkers.

10. Sikles Trek

Sikles offers an authentic village experience.

Highlights:

• Traditional Gurung culture
• Quiet trails
• Cultural homestays

Best for: Cultural and slow travelers.

Best Time for Treks from Pokhara in 2026

Spring (March–May)

• Blooming rhododendrons
• Clear mountain views
• Comfortable weather

Autumn (Sept–Nov)

• Best visibility
• Stable weather
• Peak trekking season

 Winter

• Fewer crowds
• Cold but possible for short treks

Monsoon

• Lush landscapes
• Lee-side treks still doable

Permits Needed for Trekking

Most treks from Pokhara require:

ACAP Permit

For Annapurna region conservation.

TIMS Card

Trekkers’ Information Management System.

Approximate cost:

ACAP: ~$30

TIMS: ~$20

Always check latest regulations before trekking.

How to Choose the Right Trek

Consider:

Fitness Level

Choose difficulty wisely.

Time Available

Short vs long treks.

Budget

Luxury vs budget trekking.

Experience

Beginner vs advanced routes.

Solo or Guided

Guides improve safety and experience.

Trekking Costs from Pokhara (2026 Estimates)

Budget Trek

• $30–50/day

Mid-Range Trek

• $60–100/day

Luxury Trek

• $150+/day

Costs include:

• Guide/porter
• Accommodation
• Food
• Permits
• Transport

Essential Packing List

Clothing

• Down jacket
• Base layers
• Rain gear

Gear

• Trekking boots
• Backpack
• Sleeping bag

Documents

• Permits
• Insurance
• Passport copies

Tech

• Power bank
• Headlamp
• Camera

Safety Tips for Trekking from Pokhara

Watch for Altitude Sickness

• Ascend gradually and hydrate.

Get Travel Insurance

• Helicopter evacuation coverage is vital.

Hire Licensed Guides

• Improves safety and local insight.

Monitor Weather

• Mountain weather changes fast.

Final Thoughts: Which Trek Should You Choose in 2026?

If you want a classic Himalayan experience, go for Annapurna Base Camp.
If you prefer short and scenic, choose Poon Hill or Australian Camp.
If you seek quiet trails, try Khopra Ridge or Mardi Himal.

No matter which trek you choose, Pokhara remains the perfect starting point for unforgettable adventures. With improved infrastructure and growing sustainable tourism in 2026, trekking from Pokhara is more rewarding than ever.

Plan, trek responsibly, and enjoy the Himalayas.