Great choice The Annapurna Sikles Trek (also written Siklis Trek) is a beautiful off-the-beaten-path trek in the Annapurna region. Unlike the busier Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, or Annapurna Base Camp treks, Sikles offers a quieter experience with authentic Gurung culture, terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and stunning Himalayan views. It’s lower-altitude, so it’s also suitable for families and those wanting a cultural trek without the risks of high altitude.

🌄 Annapurna Sikles Trek Overview

Region: Annapurna Conservation Area, northeast of Pokhara

Duration: 5–7 days (flexible)

Max Altitude: ~2,500 m (no altitude sickness risk)

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Accommodation: Tea houses, community lodges, and homestays

Best For: Culture, nature, short trek near Pokhara without crowds

🗺 Sample 7-Day Sikles Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Pokhara → Mardipul → Khapuche / Ghale Kharka

Drive from Pokhara (~1.5–2 hrs) to Mardipul or Bijayapur.

Trek 4–5 hrs through terraced fields and villages.

Overnight in Ghale Kharka (also called Khapuche).

Day 2: Ghale Kharka → Parche (1,400 m) → Sikles (2,000 m)

Trek 5–6 hrs through Gurung villages and forests.

Arrive at Sikles, one of the largest Gurung settlements.

Explore cultural programs, traditional houses, and views of Lamjung Himal & Annapurna II.

Overnight in Sikles (homestay/guesthouse).

Day 3: Rest & Exploration Day in Sikles

Explore the old Gurung village, monasteries, and traditional lifestyle.

Side hike to Rishi Danda or nearby viewpoints for Himalayan sunrise.

Overnight in Sikles.

Day 4: Sikles → Hugu Goth (2,100 m)

Trek 5–6 hrs through rhododendron and oak forests.

Stunning mountain views along the ridge trail.

Overnight in Hugu Goth (basic lodge/camp).

Day 5: Hugu Goth → Kapuche Lake (2,450 m) → Hugu Goth

Side trip to Kapuche Glacier Lake, the lowest-altitude glacier lake in Nepal.

Enjoy reflections of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal in the lake.

Return to Hugu Goth for overnight.

Day 6: Hugu Goth → Tara Hilltop (2,800 m) → Ghale Kharka

Optional side hike to Tara Hilltop, a superb viewpoint of Annapurna II, IV, Lamjung, and Machhapuchhre.

Descend back to Ghale Kharka.

Day 7: Ghale Kharka → Pokhara

Trek down to Mardipul / Bijayapur and drive back to Pokhara.

🕒 Shorter Option – 5-Day Sikles Trek

Day 1: Pokhara → Ghale Kharka

Day 2: Ghale Kharka → Sikles

Day 3: Explore Sikles

Day 4: Sikles → Ghale Kharka

Day 5: Return to Pokhara

🌟 Highlights of Sikles Trek

Sikles Village: Authentic Gurung culture, traditional stone houses, local museum.

Kapuche Lake: The lowest glacier lake in Nepal (2,450 m).

Himalayan Views: Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Machhapuchhre.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Fewer trekkers, peaceful trails.

Cultural Experience: Homestays, local food, folk dances.