Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and the starting point for many treks. Short options take two to four days, such as Poon Hill, Australian Camp and Mardi Himal. Longer routes, such as Annapurna Base Camp and Khopra Ridge, take five to fourteen days. The Annapurna Circuit takes much longer.
Why Pokhara
Pokhara is a lakeside town about 200 km west of Kathmandu, with many lodges, shops and agencies. Trailheads are one to three hours away by road, so you can start walking the same day you arrive.
If you have 3 days or fewer
Choose Australian Camp, Dhampus, or a short Poon Hill. These are gentle introductions with mountain views and village stays.
If you have 4 to 6 days
Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal both fit. Poon Hill is easier and more comfortable, while Mardi Himal is higher and quieter.
If you have 7 to 14 days
Annapurna Base Camp, Khopra Ridge and Annapurna Panorama give a bigger trek. Annapurna Base Camp is the most popular.
Longer trips
The Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake need two to three weeks and a good fitness base.
How to choose
Start with your days and your fitness. If you want sunrise views and lodges, choose Poon Hill. If you want a ridge walk, choose Mardi Himal. If you want a classic, choose Annapurna Base Camp.
Lodges and comfort
Lodges on Pokhara treks have private rooms, hot showers on many routes and a wide menu. Higher camps are simpler. Standards fall and prices rise with altitude.
Guides and porters
Many short treks can be done with a guide and a porter-guide pair. Longer treks need a bigger plan. Ask us what suits your group.
Plan it
See short treks, longer treks and getting to the trailheads.
