Trip Code: | SKT |
Trip Duration: | 10 days |
Max. Altitude: | 1980m. |
Grade: | Moderate |
Program Type: | Trekking |
Trek Start Point: | Bijayapur Khola |
Trek End Point: | Bijayapur khola |
Accommodation: | Camping |
Meals: | Breakfast/Lunch and Dinner |
Mode of Travel: | Trekking |
Transportation: | Bus/Car |
Minimum Pax: | 5 |
Best season: | March/April or October/November |
Overview: Siklish 9-Day Trekking
Nestled on the northeast ridge of Pokhara Valley, Siklish Trekking is a lesser-known, culturally rich route that offers a rare combination of traditional village life, terraced hillsides, panoramic mountain views, and serene natural beauty. Unlike the popular trails of the Annapurna Circuit or Base Camp, Siklish remains untouched by mass tourism, making it an ideal escape for trekkers seeking solitude, authenticity, and scenic charm. This moderate trek is perfect for families, nature lovers, cultural explorers, and first-time trekkers.
Siklish Trekking typically spans 5 to 7 days, offering a low-altitude route that rarely exceeds 2,000 meters. The journey begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Bijayapur or Khapaundi, followed by a scenic hike through beautiful Gurung villages, forests, and ridgelines. The trek’s centerpiece is the Siklish village, one of the oldest and largest Gurung settlements in western Nepal. From here, you’ll witness sweeping views of the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal.
This off-the-beaten-path route gives travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Gurung hospitality, explore ecological diversity, and enjoy serene walking trails away from crowds.
Siklish lies in the Kaski District of the Gandaki Province, northeast of Pokhara. The region forms part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the first and largest conservation area in Nepal. The trail is accessible via road, requiring only a short drive from Pokhara, Nepal’s tourism hub. As the trek lies at mid-hill elevations, it remains snow-free for most of the year, making it a year-round trekking destination.
Geographically, Siklish sits on the ridge between the Mardi Khola and Seti River valleys, offering both terraced farmland and dense forests teeming with wildlife.
The trek’s highlight is its people. Siklish is predominantly inhabited by the Gurung community, an indigenous ethnic group of the mid-hills of Nepal. Gurungs are known for their courage, honesty, and warm hospitality. Historically, many have served as brave soldiers in the British and Indian Gurkha regiments. Today, they continue to preserve their distinct culture, language, and traditions.
While trekking, visitors will meet villagers dressed in traditional attire, working in fields, preparing local dishes, or participating in vibrant rituals. Festivals such as Tihar, Lhosar, and Dashain are celebrated with dancing, singing, and communal feasts. Trekkers often get invited to local homes for a cup of millet wine, known as chhyang, and enjoy traditional Rodhi Ghar dance performances.
The majority of the people in Siklish practice a blend of Buddhism, Animism, and Hinduism. Gurung shamanic traditions, known as Pachyu or Lama, play a significant role in the spiritual lives of villagers. These spiritual leaders perform rituals for protection, healing, and festivals. You may also spot small Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags fluttering across the hillsides.
Despite their spiritual diversity, the residents of Siklish live in harmony, respecting all faiths and observing rituals passed down through generations. This spiritual tapestry adds a deeply cultural layer to the trek, connecting nature and belief in beautiful balance.
The lifestyle in Siklish is deeply rooted in agriculture and community-based living. The majority of villagers are subsistence farmers, growing crops such as millet, maize, wheat, and potatoes on terraced fields. Animal husbandry is also common, with locals raising cattle, goats, and poultry. Women play a central role in both household duties and fieldwork.
Homes are typically constructed from stone with slate roofs and are built in clusters. Life is simple, yet culturally rich, revolving around family, festivals, and farming. Trekkers can experience traditional daily routines—grinding grain, milking cows, weaving baskets, or attending local village meetings (Samaj).
Modern influences are gradually entering the region through education and remittances from abroad, but the essence of rural life remains intact, preserving its unique charm for visitors.
As the trek traverses the Annapurna Conservation Area, it showcases exceptional biodiversity. The forests here are thick with oak, rhododendron, alder, maple, and bamboo. During spring (March to April), rhododendrons bloom in vibrant shades of red, pink, and white, turning the trail into a natural wonder.
Wildlife in the region includes langurs, musk deer, mountain goats, and occasionally leopards. Bird watchers will enjoy sightings of Himalayan pheasants, eagles, magpies, bulbuls, and the elusive Danphe—Nepal’s national bird.
The area is also known for its butterfly population and medicinal plants, which locals use in traditional remedies.
The lower sections of the trail pass through subtropical forests filled with sal trees and ferns, while mid-hill sections feature temperate vegetation, including rhododendron and oak. High ridgelines and fields around Siklish host alpine grasslands and medicinal shrubs.
These changes in vegetation not only provide ecological interest but also enhance the trekking experience with shade, fragrance, and changing landscapes. The local knowledge of medicinal plants is still widely practiced by village elders and shamans.
The atmosphere on the Siklish trek is one of peace, simplicity, and authenticity. Far from busy tourist trails, it offers quiet walking paths with stunning Himalayan backdrops and the soothing sounds of nature. Each day brings a combination of cultural encounters and panoramic views, all in a relaxed pace that allows deep appreciation.
The early mornings often begin with views of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) glowing in pink and orange hues, while evenings bring chilly mountain air, crackling fires, and stories under starry skies. Villagers welcome guests with genuine warmth, and accommodations—though basic—are comfortable and cozy.
In short, the atmosphere of the Siklish trek is ideal for travelers seeking calm, culture, and connection with nature and people.
At The Himalayan Realms Treks and Expedition Nepal Pvt. Ltd., we specialize in organizing culturally immersive and environmentally responsible treks to hidden gems like Siklish. Our professional team handles all logistics including permits, transportation, and accommodations while ensuring your experience remains personalized and safe.
For those who prefer a more customized and flexible experience, we also work with Nepal freelance guides, many of whom are from the local area. These certified, English-speaking guides offer deep insights into the culture, flora, fauna, and history of the region. By choosing a freelance guide, you support local employment and benefit from authentic knowledge that enriches your journey.
Whether you choose a group trek or a private guide, we ensure every traveler experiences the soul of Siklish with comfort, care, and cultural respect.
If you’re interested in other culturally rich and scenic low-altitude treks, consider the following alternatives:
The Royal trek named was after Prince Charles, this short and scenic trek near Pokhara offers views of Annapurna and Fishtail, combined with traditional village life. It shares a similar vibe of solitude and cultural immersion like Siklish.
Panchase Trek is An excellent alternative for beginners or those short on time. The trek includes sacred forests, cultural villages, and panoramic views from Panchase Hill.
The Ghale Gaun trek introduces you to the traditional Gurung lifestyle in Ghale Gaun and Bhujung villages, promoting community-based tourism and homestays.
The The Mardi Himal Trek is for those seeking slightly more elevation and spectacular ridge walks; the Mardi Himal route ascends to nearly 4,500 meters and offers close-up views of Machhapuchhre.
The Dhampus-Australian Camp trek is a shorter trek ideal for families and seniors. It offers stunning sunrise views, traditional houses, and easy trails through rhododendron forests.
All these treks complement Siklish with similar cultural depth and scenic beauty, yet each has its own uniqueness.
Siklish Trekking is a perfect blend of natural splendor, cultural richness, and peaceful walking trails, making it a unique experience in the Annapurna region. As one of the few treks that remains untouched by mass tourism, it invites travelers to slow down and discover the genuine heart of rural Nepal.
With its welcoming Gurung people, lush forests, snow-capped peaks, and spiritual traditions, Siklish offers a journey of both external discovery and inner reflection. Whether you’re a cultural explorer, a nature enthusiast, or a family seeking meaningful travel, this trek consistently delivers beyond expectations. Furthermore, the region’s untouched charm provides a refreshing contrast to more commercialized trekking routes. Besides its natural beauty, Siklish allows visitors to connect deeply with local traditions and village life. Consequently, the experience feels authentic and transformative. In the end, trekking through Siklish is not just about scenic views; instead, it’s about embracing simplicity, celebrating culture, and finding peace in nature’s rhythms.
Therefore, partner with The Himalayan Realms Treks and Expedition Nepal Pvt. Ltd. or explore with an experienced Nepal freelance guide to make the most of this hidden treasure. Ultimately, come walk the paths less traveled and discover the true magic of the Himalayas—one village, one smile, and one story at a time.
Day 1: Drive to Pokhara. O/N camping.
Day 2: Pokhara to Kalikasthan
Day 3: Kalikasthan to Lamachaur (near Thak)
Day 4: Lamachaur to Siklis
Day 5: Siklish to Nauli Kharka or forest Camp.
Days 6:-Forest Camp to Ghale Gaon
Day 7: Ghale Gaon to Pokhara
Day 8: Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Day 09: Final departure from Kathmandu to international airport.
Day 01: Kathmandu to Pokhara (914m.):-Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (914m.) which takes about six hours. You depart early morning at 7 o’clock for the six hours drive by tourist deluxe bus to Pokhara (915m,), 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu. As you climb out of the Kathmandu valley, only to quickly descend again to the Trisuli River, you follow upstream to its junction with the Marsyangdi River. You follow the Marsyandi gently up through heavily terraced fields and small hill towns to the Seti River that takes you directly into Pokhara. Having pleasant weather, Pokhara is tourist’s paradise with full of natural as well as cultural heritage sites such as lakes, caves, temples of Buddhist and Hindus along with mountains. You can observe views to the north across the hills and Phewa Tal (lake) to the white peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This drive will take most of the morning, leaving much of the afternoon to fall in love with its beauty. You can also fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara which takes about 25 minutes.
Day 02: Pokhara to Bijayapur Khola (Bijayapur Army Camp)-Kalikasthan (1370m.)
Drive from Pokhara to Bijayapur Khola (Bijayapur Army Camp)-Kalikasthan (1370m.) which takes about five hours. A broad trail starts through rice fields near the Army Camp, and then ascends through Rakhigaon to a Chautara, a resting place under a large pipal tree. En route, you can enjoy the views in panorama. Now the trails climb gently along a ridge top through the Brahmin and Chhetris villages towards Kalikasthan at (1370m.). At the end, you should climb a short distance to the campsite which is situated above the village with panoramic view of mountain, Begnas Tal and Pokhara city.
Day 03: Kalikasthan to Lamachaur (1680m.):-Trek from Kalikasthan to LamaKhet (1680m.) which takes about six hours. You begin following gently path passing through local villages of mixed ethnic groups, rice terraces up to Mardi Khola. Now the trek is easy as you walk along the riverbank. En route you cross Bhaise, Nawaldanda, to reach Lama Khet. It is a small village where stay overnight. This place is surrounded by green hills which exhilarates you.
Day 04: Lamachaur to Siklis (1980m.):-Trek from Lamachaur to Siklis (1980m.) and it takes approximately six hours.
The trail stretches at flat level along the river bank until you reach Khilan Gaon. After this, you follow path which is gently up at some distance and steeply up for some hours. En route you pass Parju village. The trail again climbs till Siklis village. It is one of the oldest and big Gurung village. Most of the people serve in Indian and British Army.
Day 05: Siklis to Neuli Kharka or Forest camp (2200m.):-Trek from Siklis to Neuli Kharka or Forest camp (2200m.) which takes about five hours. This trek goes through rhododendron and oak forests following gently ascent path in the beginning. After some distance, you walk over the flat land. Forest Camp is surrounded by forests.
Day 06: Forest Camp to Ghale Gaon (2000m.):-Trek from Forest Camp to Ghale Gaon (2000m.) and it takes about five hours. You trek through forests covered with rhododendron. While walking you cross the highest pass of this trek. After pass, you descend steeply to reach Ghale Gaon. It is a small village which is mainly inhabited by Gurung and Magar community.
Day 07: Ghale Gaon to Pokhara:-Trek from Ghale Gaon to Pokhara which takes about three hours. The supposed trek descends gently upto Hyamgja (1070m.). You board vehicle here to go to Pokhara.
Day 08: Pokhara to Kathmandu:-Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu and it takes about seven hours. While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you head up to Damauli,, Dumre, Muglin and Kurintar where the Nepal’s first Cable car is operated to reach to Manakamana Temple. En route, you could enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. From Naubishe you climb up to Thankot, the gateway to capital city. You are then directly taken to the hotel
Day 09: Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We will drop you off at the International airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. Your own way to home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
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Cost Is Included
Cost Is Not Included
• Food in Kathmandu (Lunch & Dinner)
• Food in Pokhara (Lunch & Dinner)
• Bakery food during the trek. When you eat in the bakery that you need to pay by yourself
• Nepal Visa fee
• International airfare from your country to Kathmandu and from Kathmandu
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
• Travel and rescue insurance if guest get mountain sickness and need to rescue helicopter.
• Personal expenses example (phone calls, laundry service , bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
• Tips for guide and porters
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My husband and I embarked on a trip to Nepal in October 2006. We were hoping to avoid the large tour groups and were referred to Himalayan Holidays based in Kathmandu as a provider of customized tours. We had looked on the net to determine the tour we wanted to undertake and spoke to many people and eventually decided 6-day on Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. We live in a plain and therefore training for the trek was a challenge in itself. We spent our weekends climbing up and down a 700metre high hill that was regarded as sufficiently steep for our training needs. However, we were unsure of what to expect in Nepal and were concerned about our levels of fitness for the trek that we had in mind. We were introduced to our guide, Dammaru at the hotel we were staying in Kathmandu and our anxieties were quickly alleviated. This diminutive gentleman exuded confidence and assured us that he was able to accommodate our individual fitness levels and ensure that our time in his country was hassle free. And indeed he did! Without it being particularly noticeable, Dammaru controlled the tempo of our daily treks in order that the enjoyment factor always exceeded any physical discomfort. His relationship with the locals was both real & genuine which meant we never felt like intruders or uncomfortable in their presence. Dammaru's keen negotiation skills with the local tea house proprietors' meant the delay between arriving & unwinding from the challenges of our daily treks was minimal with the accommodation always being appropriate to our needs. His professionalism was faultless. He provided us with a wealth of information on all aspects of the history, culture, flora, and fauna of this remarkable country. Not only was he a fantastic guide, but his cheeky grin and sense of humor ensured Dammaru to be a fantastic traveling companion. Our dealings with Dammaru exceeded all expectations and we hope to make a return visit to this stunningly beautiful country.
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