10 Days Annapurna Sikles Village Homestay Hike

This 10-day trek through the Annapurna region offers more than just a walk through beautiful landscapes. It’s a chance to experience the rich culture of the Gurung community, enjoy jaw-dropping mountain views, and stay in welcoming village homestays that bring you closer to local life. It’s designed for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and stunning scenery, with a comfortable touch of trekking that’s accessible for most hikers.

One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity to stay in Sikles, the largest Gurung village in Nepal, and enjoy breathtaking Himalayan panoramas from its vantage points. Plus, the inclusion of cultural programs and local hospitality makes it more than just a hike – it’s a meaningful immersion into authentic village life. That said, with a 7-hour bus ride from Kathmandu and some moderate trekking days, it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and patience for longer travel days.

If you love scenic mountain views, cultural exchanges, and a journey that feels genuine and well-rounded, this trek is a fantastic choice. However, those expecting luxury or very high-altitude trekking might find the pace and accommodations a bit more down-to-earth. It’s perfect for adventurers seeking an authentic, value-for-money experience away from the crowded trails.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Stay in Gurung villages and enjoy local traditional programs.
• Breathtaking Views: Get panoramic sights of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna ranges, and Begnas Lake.
• Scenic Diversity: From lush forests to terraced rice fields and mountain vistas.
• Comfortable Homestays: Full-board meals and warm hospitality in local villages.
• Accessible Trekking: Moderate days, suitable for most travelers with good fitness.
• Travel Logistics: Includes transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and local transfers, simplifying planning.

A Detailed Look at the Trekking Adventure

Starting Point: From Kathmandu to Pokhara

The journey kicks off with a roughly 7-hour scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a route celebrated for its lush hills, river tributaries, and captivating landscapes. While it’s a long ride, many find it worthwhile for the stunning vistas en route. The bus ride is included in the package, removing the stress of logistics, and the comfort of a tourist coach makes it manageable. As you roll through curvy mountain roads, you’ll notice the landscape shifting from urban sprawl to rural serenity.

Day 3: Trek to Kalikasthan

After a hearty breakfast, we drive to Bijayapur Khola, a charming riverbank spot where the trek begins. The walk to Kalikasthan takes around four hours, mostly through terraced rice fields and lush greenery. The pace here is gentle, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Staying overnight in Bijayapur makes this a manageable start, with enough time to relax and prepare for the next day’s trek.

Day 4: Trek to Lamachaur

The following day’s trek takes about four hours to Lamachaur, located at 910 meters. The trail passes through small villages and hamlets, offering glimpses of local life. Lamachaur itself is relatively quiet but provides a peaceful environment with views of hills surrounding Pokhara. The walk is comfortable, making it suitable for most travelers, but it’s the kind of day that rewards patience and a camera-ready eye for nature.

Day 5: To Sikles Village

The highlight of the trek arrives as you head toward Sikles, the largest Gurung village in Nepal. The trail crosses rivers and climbs ridges, culminating in a spectacular viewpoint at 1980 meters. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other peaks. This stop is frequently described as a “major viewpoint,” with visitors appreciating how the scenery makes every step worthwhile. The trek takes around four hours, but the breathtaking vistas will stay with you long after.

Day 6: Exploring Sikles and Cultural Richness

Staying in Sikles, you’ll experience the charm of the oldest Gurung settlement. The village itself is known for its traditional architecture and vibrant community life. The trip includes a cultural program, where local Gurung people share traditional songs, dance, and customs. Travelers like the reviewer who emphasized the “enchanting views” and cultural exchange find this part of the trip especially rewarding. It’s a chance to understand local traditions, cuisine, and the Gurung way of life in an authentic setting.

Day 7: Trek to Ghale Gaun

After a warm farewell from Sikles villagers, you head towards Ghale Gaun, a scenic spot offering perhaps even more stunning mountain views. The ascent takes about four hours, with a lunch break en route. Ghale Gaun is famed for its sweeping vistas of the Himalayas and its friendly community. Spending a night here allows for some leisure exploration of the village and more panoramic photography.

Day 8: Return to Pokhara

A relatively relaxed day, exploring Ghale Gaun before returning to Pokhara. The journey is around four hours, giving you time to unwind by the lakeside or explore the vibrant lakeside market. Many reviews highlight how refreshing it is to come back to Pokhara’s lively atmosphere after several days in rural villages.

Days 9-10: Return to Kathmandu and Departure

The return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu by bus takes around five hours. It’s a scenic drive, replete with mountain views, giving you one last glance at Nepal’s natural beauty. The tour concludes with airport transfers, making sure your departure is smooth and hassle-free.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Logistics

Transportation is a key part of this experience. The inclusion of a tourist coach from Kathmandu to Pokhara, along with local private vehicles, simplifies the often daunting task of planning intercity travel. The drive from Kathmandu is long but scenic, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. The local transfers between villages are comfortable and well-coordinated, making it easier to focus on enjoying the scenery and culture.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying in homestays and local guesthouses means authentic accommodations that give you a taste of village life. Meals are full-board, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with local dishes often highlighted as a highlight of the cultural experience. The reviews suggest the homestays are warm and welcoming, adding a personal touch to your stay.

Tour Group & Guide

The tour is private, meaning it’s just your group, which enhances flexibility and comfort. The guide, a professional English speaker, helps navigate the routes and enriches your understanding of local customs and environment. One reviewer mentioned how their guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip even more engaging.

Price & Value

At around $821, this tour offers good value given the extensive itinerary, cultural activities, accommodations, and transportation. The inclusion of cultural programs and scenic viewpoints adds to the overall value, making it a worthwhile investment for aspiring Himalayan explorers who want a comprehensive experience without breaking the bank.

Considerations

While the trek isn’t high-altitude and doesn’t involve strenuous climbs, travelers should be comfortable with long bus rides (up to 7 hours) and some moderate hiking days. Weather can influence the experience, especially visibility at mountain viewpoints, so flexibility is key. The tour’s cancellation policy is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Trek?

This 10-day Annapurna Sikles Village Homestay Hike strikes a wonderful balance between scenic beauty, culture, and manageable trekking. It’s particularly suited for those who want to experience Nepal beyond tourist hotspots, embracing local life, mountain views, and authentic villages. The tour’s inclusion of full-board homestays and cultural programs makes it ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful connection with their environment.

It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate stunning vistas—many reviews mention the “magnificent mountain views” that make every climb worthwhile. The tour’s moderate days, reliable logistics, and welcoming community make it accessible for most travelers with a decent fitness level.

However, if you’re after very high-altitude treks or luxury accommodations, this might not meet those expectations. But for a genuine, well-rounded Himalayan experience, this trek offers plenty of value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trek days are moderate, and the itinerary is designed to be accessible to most travelers with good fitness. However, some long bus rides and walking should be considered.

Are the homestays comfortable?
The tour includes full-board meals and stays in local guesthouses or homestays, which are warm and authentic but may lack some modern luxuries. The experience is more about culture than luxury.

What kind of views can I expect?
You’ll see stunning mountain ranges like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, as well as lakes and terraced rice fields. Many reviewers describe the vistas as “breathtaking” and “the highlight of the trip.”

How long is the bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
About 7 hours each way, on a scenic route with occasional stops. The ride is included and considered part of the adventure.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, accommodation in Kathmandu, full-board meals during homestays, cultural programs, guides, and all necessary government taxes.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, international airfare, Nepal visa fees, travel insurance, personal expenses, and optional extras. The tour price covers most logistics.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if cancellations occur, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund. Visibility at viewpoints depends on clear weather.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most likely yes, provided children are comfortable with some long travel days and moderate walking. Always check with the tour provider about age restrictions.

This 10-day Annapurna Sikles Village Homestay Hike offers a genuine taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and vibrant local culture. From panoramic Himalayan views to heartfelt village interactions, it’s a trip that can leave a lasting impression on anyone eager for an authentic trek.