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7 Days

Sikless Trek

Sikless Trek - 7 Days

  • Sikles Trek, Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal

Enjoy an exciting journey through the tranquil trails of the Sikles Trek, surrounded by terraced farmlands, lush forests, and the breathtaking backdrop of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges. Explore the traditional Gurung village of Sikles, rich in culture and warm hospitality, while experiencing the authentic rural lifestyle of Nepal. This short and peaceful adventure offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and panoramic Himalayan scenery.

Duration

7 Days

Difficulty

Moderate

Group Size

10 Quest

Height

1,980 m

Duration

7 Days

Difficulty

Moderate

Group Size

10 Quest

Height

1,980 m

Sikless Trek Overview

The Sikles Trek is a beautiful short trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, located northeast of Pokhara in the Kaski District, Gandaki Province. Known for its authentic Gurung culture, stunning Himalayan scenery, and unspoiled landscapes, this trek is a hidden gem for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure without the challenges of extreme altitude. Unlike the more commercialized trails of the Annapurna Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Sikles Trek remains peaceful and less crowded, making it a perfect choice for families, cultural explorers, and trekkers looking for a more relaxed Himalayan journey.

The trek generally takes 5–7 days, depending on the chosen itinerary, and reaches its highlight at Sikles Village (1,980 m), one of the largest and most well-preserved Gurung settlements in Nepal. The trail winds through lush rhododendron and oak forests, terraced farmlands, and scenic hillsides, offering trekkers a chance to experience both natural beauty and rural Nepali life. During spring (March–May), the hills come alive with vibrant rhododendron blossoms, while autumn (September–November) brings crystal-clear skies and breathtaking mountain views.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Sikles Trek is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Gurung people. The village of Sikles is famous for its stone-paved lanes, traditional slate-roofed houses, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality. Trekkers staying in local homestays or community-run lodges can enjoy home-cooked meals, folk dances, and cultural interactions that provide a deeper understanding of the Gurung way of life.

From the village and along the trail, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), also known as Fishtail Mountain. These snow-capped peaks rise dramatically above the lush green valleys, creating a striking contrast that makes the journey incredibly rewarding for photographers and nature lovers alike.

In terms of difficulty, the Sikles Trek is considered moderate, with daily walking of about 5–6 hours. The trails involve some uphill and downhill sections but are suitable even for beginners and families with children. Since the trek does not reach very high altitudes, the risk of altitude sickness is minimal, making it accessible to a wider range of trekkers.

Accommodation along the route is mostly in basic teahouses and homestays, which enhances the experience of living close to local communities. Meals typically include traditional Nepali dal bhat, noodles, soups, and locally grown produce, ensuring trekkers are well-fed and energized throughout the journey.

In essence, the Sikles Trek is more than just a hike—it’s a cultural journey into the heart of the Gurung community, combined with breathtaking natural beauty and Himalayan panoramas. It is ideal for those who want a short, enriching, and less-commercialized trekking experience in Nepal, where nature, tradition, and hospitality come together in perfect harmony.

Sikless Trek Itinerary

Elevation: 1400 m → 822 m

At the beginning of the Sikles Trek, your journey typically starts with either a drive or a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region.

If you choose to fly, it takes only about 25–30 minutes from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport to Pokhara, offering you breathtaking aerial views of the Langtang, Manaslu, and Annapurna ranges along the way. This is the fastest and most convenient option, especially for trekkers with limited time.

Alternatively, you can opt for an overland drive, which takes around 6–7 hours depending on road and traffic conditions. The drive follows the winding Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, passing through green hills, terraced farms, and small towns. Though longer, the road journey allows you to soak in the diverse landscapes of Nepal at a more relaxed pace.

Upon arriving in Pokhara (822 m), known as the “City of Lakes,” you’ll immediately be greeted by the serene beauty of Phewa Lake and the majestic backdrop of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks. Most trekkers choose to spend a night here before heading toward the starting point of the Sikles Trek, enjoying Pokhara’s vibrant markets, lakeside cafés, and peaceful atmosphere as a perfect prelude to the trek ahead.

Whether by air or road, reaching Pokhara marks the official beginning of your Sikles adventure, setting the tone for a journey filled with cultural discovery, natural beauty, and Himalayan charm.

Elevation: 822 m → 1743 m

The journey from Pokhara (822 m) to Ghalekharka (1,743 m) marks the true beginning of the Sikles Trek and is an exciting transition from the lively city atmosphere to the tranquil villages of the Annapurna foothills. After leaving Pokhara, the drive takes you through scenic countryside landscapes, passing terraced rice fields, lush green hills, and charming settlements that showcase the rural lifestyle of Nepal. The road winds upward along the ridges and valleys, with occasional glimpses of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks in the distance, building anticipation for the trekking days ahead.

The drive usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the road conditions, which can be rough and bumpy in certain stretches, especially during the monsoon season. Despite the rugged terrain, the journey is rewarding, offering beautiful views of river valleys, traditional Gurung villages, and dense forests. Ghalekharka itself is a picturesque hilltop village surrounded by terraced farmlands and rhododendron forests. It provides a warm and welcoming environment where trekkers can begin to immerse themselves in the rich Gurung culture and enjoy the fresh mountain air away from the hustle of the city.

Arriving in Ghalekharka sets the stage for the trekking experience, as this quiet settlement serves as a peaceful base from which to begin your walk deeper into the Annapurna region. It is the perfect place to unwind after the drive and prepare for the trekking trails that lead toward the heart of the Sikles region.

Elevation: 1743 m → 1980 m

 

The trek from Ghalekharka (1,743 m) to Sikles (1,980 m) is one of the most rewarding sections of the Sikles Trek, as it takes you deeper into the heart of the Annapurna foothills and introduces you to the cultural and natural treasures of the region. Leaving behind Ghalekharka, the trail meanders through lush rhododendron and oak forests, which come alive with vibrant colors during the spring season when rhododendrons are in full bloom. The sound of birdsong and the rustling of leaves accompany you as you ascend gently along well-trodden paths that connect remote villages.

As you gain elevation, the views gradually open up, revealing sweeping panoramas of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges. The trek also provides glimpses of terraced farmlands where locals cultivate maize, millet, and potatoes, reflecting the traditional subsistence farming lifestyle of the Gurung people. Along the way, you may pass small hamlets and encounter friendly villagers, offering you an authentic taste of rural Nepalese life far from the modern bustle.

After 5–6 hours of trekking, you arrive at Sikles Village, one of the largest and most well-preserved Gurung settlements in Nepal. Perched on a ridge overlooking the Mardi Khola Valley, Sikles is a living museum of Gurung heritage, with its stone-paved alleys, traditional slate-roofed houses, and vibrant community life. The village is also known for its warm hospitality, cultural dances, and breathtaking vantage points that provide unobstructed views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal.

Spending the night in Sikles allows you not only to rest and acclimatize but also to immerse yourself in the unique Gurung culture, traditions, and lifestyle. This trek segment beautifully combines nature, culture, and mountain scenery, making it a highlight of the Sikles Trek.

Elevation:  1980 m

Exploring Sikles (1,980 m) is a delightful and enriching experience, as this traditional Gurung village offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and Himalayan charm. Unlike many other trekking villages that serve mainly as overnight stops, Sikles is a destination in itself, where you can spend a full day discovering its unique way of life.

The village is one of the largest and oldest Gurung settlements in Nepal, renowned for its beautifully preserved traditional houses with stone walls and slate roofs, narrow stone-paved lanes, and communal courtyards. As you wander through the village, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the warm and hospitable Gurung people, who are known for their bravery as Gurkha soldiers and their vibrant cultural traditions. You may witness or even participate in traditional dances, songs, and rituals that reflect their deep connection to their ancestry and community.

Beyond culture, Sikles also offers several viewpoints that provide spectacular panoramas of the Annapurna range, Lamjung Himal, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). Early morning or evening walks to these vantage spots are especially rewarding, with golden hues illuminating the snow-capped peaks. The surrounding terraced fields and forested hillsides add to the village’s picturesque setting, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.

For those interested in learning more about the region, Sikles is also home to a community-managed conservation area, part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). This initiative promotes eco-tourism and protects the local environment, offering trekkers insights into sustainable mountain living.

Spending time in Sikles allows trekkers to slow down, connect with the land and its people, and appreciate the balance between nature and tradition. It’s not just a stop on the trek—it’s an experience that leaves lasting impressions of Himalayan hospitality, culture, and scenic beauty.

Elevation: 1980 m → 1743 m

The trek back from Sikles (1,980 m) to Ghalekharka (1,743 m) retraces your steps through the scenic foothills of the Annapurna region, offering another opportunity to enjoy the landscapes and culture that make this journey so special. Leaving Sikles, you gradually descend along stone-paved paths and trails winding through terraced farmlands, where you may once again see local villagers tending to their crops or herding livestock. The descent is easier compared to the uphill climb, allowing more time to appreciate the peaceful rhythm of rural life.

As you make your way down, the trail passes through stretches of rhododendron and oak forests, alive with birdsong and rich greenery. During springtime, these forests burst into bloom, painting the hillsides with vibrant shades of red and pink. Occasional clearings on the trail reveal striking views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), reminding you of the grandeur of the Himalayas even as you move closer to the lowlands.

The trek usually takes about 4–5 hours, with gentle descents that are both refreshing and scenic. By the time you arrive in Ghalekharka, the tranquil atmosphere of this charming village welcomes you once more. Nestled amidst terraced fields and surrounded by forested hills, Ghalekharka offers a serene setting to rest and reflect on the cultural encounters and mountain views that defined your stay in Sikles.

This return trek is more than just a journey back—it’s a chance to walk at a slower pace, notice details you may have missed on the way up, and bid farewell to the Gurung heartland of the Annapurna region.

Elevation: 1743 m → 822 m

The trek from Ghalekharka (1,743 m) back to Pokhara (822 m) marks the concluding stage of the Sikles Trek, bringing your Himalayan adventure full circle. From Ghalekharka, the trail gradually descends through lush forests, terraced fields, and small traditional villages, offering a last glimpse of the rural lifestyle and natural beauty of the Annapurna foothills. The walk is relatively easy compared to the ascents of earlier days, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful surroundings at a relaxed pace. Along the way, you may encounter local farmers, herders, or schoolchildren, each reflecting the simplicity and warmth of life in the region.

As you move lower, the mountain views begin to fade into the background, replaced by fertile valleys and subtropical greenery. The trek usually takes 5–6 hours, after which you reach a road-accessible point where a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara. The drive winds through scenic countryside and river valleys, gradually reintroducing you to busier roads as you approach the vibrant city.

Arriving in Pokhara, often called the “City of Lakes,” feels like stepping into a different world after days in the quiet highlands. The serene waters of Phewa Lake, lively lakeside cafés, and the bustling markets provide a refreshing contrast to the remote trails. Many trekkers choose to spend extra days here, relaxing by the lake, enjoying cultural experiences, or even trying adventurous activities like paragliding before heading back to Kathmandu.

This final stretch from Ghalekharka to Pokhara not only concludes the trek but also serves as a reflective journey, allowing you to transition from the serenity of the Gurung villages back to the comforts of modern life while carrying with you the memories of the mountains, people, and culture of the Sikles region.

Elevation: 822 m → 1400 

The return journey from Pokhara (822 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m) marks the final leg of the Sikles Trek, bringing your adventure to a close. You have two main options: either a scenic drive or a short flight, each offering its own unique experience.

If you choose to fly, the journey takes only about 25–30 minutes, making it the fastest and most convenient option. The flight offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan ranges, including Annapurna, Manaslu, and Langtang, as well as the rolling hills and valleys below. On clear days, this short journey feels more like a sightseeing flight, giving you one last chance to admire Nepal’s incredible mountain landscapes before arriving in the capital.

Alternatively, the drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes around 6–7 hours along the Prithvi Highway, following the winding course of the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. Though longer, the drive provides a more immersive experience of Nepal’s diverse landscapes, passing through small towns, farmlands, and forested hillsides. Road conditions can vary, but the overland journey offers a chance to witness daily life in the countryside and absorb the changing scenery at a slower pace.

Arriving in Kathmandu, the bustling capital city, feels like a return to modern comforts after days of trekking and village life. Whether by air or road, this final journey completes your circuit from the Himalayas back to the heart of Nepal, leaving you with lasting memories of the Sikles Trek’s cultural encounters, natural beauty, and mountain panoramas.

Cost Includes of Sikless Trek

Transportation Fare: Kathmandu – Pokhara

Your package includes transportation fare covering the road transfer from Kathmandu to Pokara, the starting point of the trek, and the return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu. This service ensures a comfortable and scenic journey through the diverse landscapes of Nepal, including terraced hills, rivers, and rural villages. Travelers can enjoy views of the Himalayan foothills, local settlements, and winding mountain roads while safely reaching the starting points and endpoints of the trek, allowing for a smooth and convenient trekking experience.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee

Entry to the Annapurna Conservation Area is mandatory for all trekkers. This fee ensures legal access to the region and supports conservation efforts and local communities.

7 Days Full Board Accommodation and Meals

Full board service is included during the trek, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodation is provided in teahouses or lodges along the route, offering clean, safe, and basic facilities.

Tea and Coffee

Complimentary tea and coffee are available during meals and rest stops to keep you refreshed and energized throughout the trek.

Drinking Water

Safe drinking water is arranged throughout the trek, either boiled, filtered, or purchased at teahouses.

Professional Trekking Guide

An experienced English-speaking trekking guide accompanies you throughout the trek, providing expert guidance, cultural insights, and support for safety and acclimatization.

Porter Service

One porter for every two trekkers is provided to carry luggage, with a maximum of 18 kg per porter. This ensures your load is manageable and trekking is more comfortable.

Guide and Porter Wages

The wages for your guide and porter throughout the trek are included, ensuring their full-time support and assistance.

Guide and Porter Insuranc

Insurance coverage is provided for both your guide and porter, safeguarding them against accidents and emergencies during the trek.

Porter Wage

The wages for your porter, who will help carry your luggage and ease your trekking experience, are included.

First Aid Kit

A comprehensive first aid kit is provided throughout the trek to handle minor injuries or illnesses promptly.

Cost Excludes of Sikless Trek

International Airfare

Flights to and from Nepal are not included in the package. Trekkers are responsible for arranging their own international travel.

Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara

The cost of staying in hotels before or after the trek in Kathmandu and Pokhara is not included in the package. Travelers are expected to arrange and pay for their own accommodations in these cities.

Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Meals before the trek in Kathmandu and after the trek in Pokhara are not included. Travelers are expected to pay for their own food in the cities.

Personal Expenses

Expenditures such as souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, bottled or canned drinks, snacks, laundry services, internet usage, and telephone calls are considered personal and are not covered by the package.

Travel Insurance

The package does not include travel insurance. All travelers are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or stolen luggage, and emergency evacuations, including high-altitude rescue

Tips and Gratuities

Tips for guides, porters, drivers, and other service staff are not included in the package. While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary and appreciated for good service, and the amount is left to the discretion of the traveler.

Optional Activities and Upgrades

Any activities, tours, excursions, or services that are not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary, such as helicopter flights, sightseeing tours, or premium lodging upgrades, will incur additional costs.

Hot Showers and Wi-Fi

Charges for hot showers, Wi-Fi, and other optional services at teahouses or lodges are not included.

Medical and Emergency Expenses

Costs related to medical treatment, medicines, or emergency evacuations due to illness, injury, altitude sickness, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered. These costs should be either insured under a travel insurance policy or paid out of pocket.

Domestic Flights

Airfare for domestic flights included in the trek package (e.g., Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu) is usually included, but any extra flights, changes, or delays due to weather or personal reasons must be paid separately by the traveler.

Personal Trekking Gear

Specialized trekking gear such as sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, gaiters, or personal climbing equipment is not included and should be arranged individually unless rented through the trekking company.

Packing List

For a comfortable and successful trek, having the right clothing, gear, and equipment is essential. One porter will be assigned for every two trekkers, with a maximum carrying capacity of 18 kg. This means each trekker is allowed to bring up to 9 kg of personal luggage.

As the porter will carry gear for two people, we recommend coordinating with a trekking partner and packing both sets of gear in a single duffel bag of at least 60 liters. In addition, each trekker should carry a personal daypack (20–30 liters) for essentials such as valuables, snacks, water, and important documents.

While personal preferences may vary, we suggest bringing only the necessary clothing and accessories for the trek. Any extra luggage you don’t need on the trail can be safely stored at your hotel or at the Discovery World Trekking office free of charge during the trek.

Clothing & Layers

  • Moisture-wicking base layers (2–3 tops, 2 bottoms)
  • Fleece or wool mid-layer jacket
  • Lightweight down or synthetic insulated jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
  • Waterproof trekking pants or over-trousers
  • Trekking shirts (2–3 quick-dry long/short sleeve)
  • Trekking trousers (2–3 pairs)
  • Warm hat/beanie and sun hat
  • Neck gaiter or scarf
  • Gloves: inner fleece + waterproof outer gloves

Footwear

  • Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
  • Liner socks (1–2 pairs to prevent blisters)
  • Camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)

Sleeping Gear

  • Four-season sleeping bag (-10°C / 14°F comfort rated)
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Pillowcase (optional)

Bags & Packs

  • Trekking backpack (40–55L)
  • Duffel bag (carried by porter, provided by operator)
  • Daypack (20–30L)
  • Rain cover for your backpack

Personal Hygiene

  • Biodegradable soap and shampoo
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Face and body wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Toilet paper (carry your own)
  • Menstrual hygiene products (for females)
  • Small mirror and nail clippers

First Aid & Medicines

  • Personal prescribed medicines
  • Altitude sickness pills (Diamox – consult doctor)
  • Painkillers (ibuprofen/paracetamol)
  • Anti-diarrheal tablets (e.g., Imodium)
  • Oral rehydration salts / electrolytes
  • Blister plasters and band-aids
  • Antiseptic cream and ointments
  • Insect repellent
  • Small first aid pouch (basic items)

Electronics & Accessories

  • Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
  • Power bank (solar or standard)
  • Mobile phone + charger
  • Camera + SD cards (optional)
  • Earplugs (useful in teahouses)
  • Travel adapter (multi-country)
  • Charging cables

Documents & Money

  • Valid passport with visa
  • 4 passport-size photos (for permits)
  • ACAP, TIMS, and Upper Mustang Special Permit
  • Insurance (including medical evacuation)
  • Cash (Nepali rupees – limited ATMs on trek)
  • Emergency contact list

Optional Items

  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Water bottles (2–3 liters total capacity)
  • Water purification tablets or filter (Sawyer/Lifestraw)
  • Energy snacks (nuts, bars, chocolates)
  • Lightweight reading book or Kindle
  • Notebook and pen
  • Dry bags or zip-locks (for clothes/gadgets)
  • Small thermos flask

Private Trek

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Sikless Trek Map

FAQs of Sikless Trek

A short and culturally immersive trekking route in the Annapurna region, exploring traditional Gurung villages and scenic Himalayan landscapes.

In Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal, northeast of Pokhara.

Typically 5–7 days, depending on the chosen itinerary.

Around 1,980 m at Sikles Village.

Spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms and Autumn (September–November) for clear skies and pleasant weather.

Moderate, suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness.

Around 4–6 hours on average.

Minimal, as the trek stays below 2,000 m, but mild acclimatization is recommended.

Yes, it’s ideal for beginners, families, and short-time trekkers.

Optional, but recommended for cultural insights and navigation through villages.

Basic teahouses, homestays, and lodges in villages.

Traditional Nepali dal bhat, noodles, momos, and local dishes.

Yes, but it should be purified or boiled.

Limited; mostly solar or generator power.

Rare, as villages are remote.

Sikles Village, rhododendron forests, Annapurna and Machhapuchhre views, and Gurung culture.

Possible sightings include birds, butterflies, and occasional small mammals.

Excellent, especially mountain panoramas, forests, and cultural scenes.

Yes, with terraced farmland, forest trails, and village landscapes.

One of the largest Gurung settlements, with traditional houses, stone-paved lanes, and cultural heritage.

Yes, villagers are welcoming, and homestays allow cultural immersion.

Yes, traditional Gurung festivals, dances, and rituals are celebrated seasonally.

Absolutely, as you experience Gurung traditions, architecture, and daily life.

Small temples and shrines can be found in villages along the trail.

No special restricted permits are required; standard trekking permits may apply.

Usually via drive or flight to Pokhara, followed by a drive to Ghalekharka.

Yes, road transport from Ghalekharka or nearby trailheads is arranged.

Trekking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, water bottle, trekking poles.

For a short, culturally rich, and less crowded trek, combining scenic landscapes with authentic Gurung village experiences.

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Sikless Trek - 7 Days

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Enjoy dedicated support from seasoned trekking professionals

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Adapted altitude support, always on call

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Start when you want, move how you like

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Designed for couples, close friends, and families

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