Kathmandu Pokhara Sikles Trek

Highlights

√ Visit beautiful Sikless village and Ghale Gaun
√ Endangered species of flora and fauna throughout the trail
√ Explore unique Gurung traditional culture and their living style
√ Visit beautiful city of Pokhara: Fewa Lake, Peace Stupa, David fall
√ Pass through Gurung villages, terraced fields, rhododendron forest
√ Massive view of Annapurna, fishtail, Lamjung, Manaslu and Dhaulagiri

Trip Facts

Trip Duration: 5 days (Pkr - Pkr)
Max altitude: 1350m - 2200m
Difficulty: Easy
Accommodation: Teahouse
Starting / Ending: Kathmandu
Season: Sept - May
Transport : Sharing & Private vehicle
Equipment: Basic trekking gear
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS card

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m/4429 ft. ), transfer to hotel

Flying into Kathmandu is a memorable experience with the Himalaya spread out. Timepass is so quickly, enjoying the views of marvelous Himalayan ranges along with the world's highest peak Mount Everest while being on this flight. The flight will land at (TIA) Tribhuwan International Airport at 1350m after you will receive Nepal entry visa which can be obtained in advance or on entry and for the visa process at Kathmandu TIA, you will take around 45min, it depends on the number of people in a queue. For the Nepal entry visa information, have to visit this Nepal govt. official site Department of Immigration Nepal. After you will exit from the gate, where you will see our company representative waiting for you withholding placard written with the company name. Company representative welcomes you by offering the holy Tibetan scarf and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. It takes around 30min to reach at Thamel from TIA via means of transportation. The scenes of Pashupatinath(sacred Hindu temple), city, full of various vehicles, peoples make our journey more enjoyable and amazing, then we reach the hotel and take rest. Thamel is full of restaurants, shopping centers, and good accommodation. Trek briefing and afterward invited to a host family for welcome dinner.
[Included meals: Welcome drink]
Overnight at hotel

Day 02: Free Day in Kathmandu (1350m/4429 ft.)

We recommend you to take an extra day in Kathmandu on the second day of the trip. Due to several hours of flight travel, physical mentally could be exhaust. Therefore it is an ideal idea to stop a day in Kathmandu before starting your Himalayas trip and prepare for the trip. During the free day at Ktm, you can simply stay relax or to make your the day memorable you can do sightseeing tour on world's UNESCO Heritage sites or you can do 1hr Everest Mountain Flight tour or 3h30min Everest Helicopter tour or 1h30min Langtang Helicopter tour, rock climbing, etc.
[Included meals: bed and breakfast]
Overnight at hotel

Day 03: Scenic drive to Pokhara (823m/2700ft), 6hr drive

Early we drive to Pokhara. From Ktm we follow the Prithvi Highway that leads to Galchi and Mugling Bazaar. After (6hr) drive we reach at Pokhara (823m). Pokhara is the second largest city of Nepal after Kathmandu. It is the home to numerous lakes and caves. The peaks can be closely observed from Pokhara include Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu. It offers the surrounding panorama of nature and culture.
[Included meals: bed and breakfast]
Overnight at hotel

Day 04: Sightseeing at Pokhara

Today we will explore the surrounding nature of Pokhara situated in the lap of Annapurna mountain ranges. It is the gateway for trekking in Annapurna region. We will visit the major tourist spots like Phewa Lake, David fall, Mahendra cave, Peace Stupa, International Mountain Museum and the Tibetan refugee camp. Hiking up to the World Peace Stupa and get a spectacular view of Pokhara Valley with Fewa Lake which reflect the image of Annapurna ranges. Day tour to Bat Caves, Tashi Palkhel Tibetan Refugee Camp, David Fall and famous Gurkha Soldiers museum and International Mountaineering museum. The major attraction of Pokahara are Paragliding, zip flyer, bungee jump and boating.
[Included meals: bed and breakfast]
Overnight at hotel

Day 05: Scenic drive to Bijaypur and trek to Kalikasthan (1370m/4494ft. ), drive 30min+5hr walk

Today we drive to Bijayapur and begin our trek to Kalikasthan. We pass through the beautiful flat rice fields near the Army Camp and ascend to Chautara via Rakhigaon. We will observe the massif views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mt. Annapurna I, Machhapurchre, Gangapurna, Mt. Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Himal Chuli and many more mountains with Begnas Lake view from the top while walking. Beyond Chautara our uphill climb continues to a Village dominated by Brahmins (one of the major castes of Nepal) and Chhetris villages. The trail connects to Kalikasthan. The panoramic view of Pokhara city is favolous and the mountain views to the north are equally enchanting.
[Included meals: breakfast+lunch+dinner]
Overnight at teahouse

Day 06: Trek to Lamakhet (1680m/5512ft. ), 4-5hr walk

After having breakfast, we begin our trek to Lamakhet following the path passing through local villages of mixed ethnic groups, rice terraces up to Mardi Khola. Now the trek is easy as we walk along the riverbank. En route cross through Bhaise, Nawaldanda, to reach Lamakhet. It is a small village where we stay overnight surrounded by green hills which exhilarates us.
[Included meals: breakfast+lunch+dinner]
Overnight at teahouse

Day 07: Trek to Sikles (1980m/6496ft. ), 5-6hr walk

The trek climbs up towards Sikles stretches at flat level along the river bank and the pleasant Rhododendron woods until we reach Khilan Gaon. Following the path gently up at some distance and steeply up for some hours. En route we pass Parju village. The trail again climbs until we reach Sikles village. Sikles village is one of the largest Gurung settlements in Nepal mostly found Indian and British Army.

We will see lots of unique activities performed in Siklesh. Folk songs and dances are performed by Gurung people in Sikles. The traditional Gurung lifestyles, the making of handicrafts in a traditional way, the cloth weaving procedure in the traditional way and the flourmills driven by water current in a traditional will fascinate us. Besides, rich culture and traditional living style we enjoy the splendid views of mountains including Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II and Manaslu and flanking rhododendron forest in Sikles.
[Included meals: breakfast+lunch+dinner]
Overnight at teahouse

Day 08: Trek to Forest Camp (2200m/7217ft. ), 5-6hr walk

After having breakfast in Sikles village we trek towards Nyauli Kharka, also known as Forest Camp. Our trail passes through the beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak, and Pine trees following the gentle ascent. After crossing some distance, we reach to a flat surface surrounded by forests.
[Included meals: breakfast+lunch+dinner]
Overnight at teahouse

Day 09: Trek to Ghale Gaon (1669m5475ft. ), 5hr walk

The trek descends down towards Ghale Goan through pleasing oak and rhododendron forest. We will admire the panoramic views of the many Himalayas, such as Bouddha Himal, Himalchuli, and Manaslu in the East, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna on the North and the peak of Machhapuchare on the west. The trial mostly goes downhill today. After a few descents we will reach Ghale Gaon, popular mid-hill destination for homestay tourism. It is a typical Gurung village situated in the foothills of the Annapurna range. The area is abundant with green pastures of grasslands. On our arrival at Ghale Gaon we enjoy the hospitality of the host family, belongs to great Gurkha Warriors, Gurung.
[Included meals: breakfast+lunch+dinner]
Overnight at teahouse

Day 10: Trek to Besisahar (760m/2493ft. )via Khudi, 4-5hr walk

After the breakfast, treks down to Besisahar. On the way, we walk through dense jungle and Lama Gaon. Trek to Besisahar winds through dense woodlands. We will have Lunch at Khudi and start walking along with the series of Marsyangdi River. Besisahar is the starting point to most popular trek- Annapurna Circuit. It has a sub-tropical climate with deciduous forests.
[Included meals: breakfast+lunch+dinner]
Overnight at teahouse

Day 11: Scenic drive to Kathmandu (1350m/4429ft. ), 6hr drive

We follow the Prithvi Highway witnessing the rural landscapes dominated by lush vegetation and rushing rivers with full of fun throughout the drive. It takes about 6hr drive back to Kathmandu. After reaching there our representative will transfer you to the hotel. You can spend the rest of the by relaxing or shopping for gifts and souvenirs.
[Included meals: dinner in Ktm]
Overnight at hotel

Day 12: Final Departure, transfer to Airport

A representative of IHSA will drop off you at the airport by private vehicle.
[Included meals: breakfast]

Our Offer

+ All airport transfers. We’ll pick you up personally

+ Accommodation in a quality 3* hotel with breakfast in Ktm as per the itinerary [upgrade possible]

+ Private trek with an English speaking government licensed and ministry of tourism trained trekking guide with Foods, accommodation, salary and insurance

+ 1 porter (between two clients) to carry your luggage during the trek (max 20 kg; i.e. 10kg pP)with foods, accommodation, salary, and insurance

+ Sightseeing in KTM & PKR by private vehicle and professional English speaking guide

+ Full board meals (Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner/main course) during the trek

+ Annapurna Conservation Area Permit[ACAP]

+ Trekkers Information Management System [TIMS] registration fee

+ Sharing/ Private vehicle from Kathmandu to Pokhara & Besisahar to Kathmandu

+ Duffel bag and trekking map (Duffel to be returned after trip completion)

+ First aid medical kit carried by the guide

+ Necessary paper works, all government, and local taxes

+ Complimentary welcome or farewell dinner in Kathmandu with the host family

Excluded Services

- International Airfare to and from your country

- Nepal Visa fee for on arrival entry visa (US$ 25 or equivalent for 15 days, US$ 40 for 30 days & US$ 100 for 90 days. For further more information, have to visit Nepal Immigration Department official website.

- Travel & Health Insurance [needs to cover Emergency Heli Rescue at altitude]

- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara

- Any alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, and boiled water as well as snacks, desserts, etc. during the trek

- Gratuity for Guide & Porter

- Hot shower, wifi, battery charges (available at extra cost in lodges, sometimes free)

- Unforeseen expenses not under our control such as flight cancellations or delays, weather-related issues, illness during the trek, rescue costs, etc.

- Any other costs not specifically included. Please feel free to ask if in doubt.

Excluded Services

Nepal Visa Fee

Equipment

Trekking Equipment

Have a kindly bring the following stated equipment for the camping/tented trek. The equipment you can buy in Kathmandu with different quality at a good price.

Luggage:

01 large duffel bag: The Luggage is for to carry all your personal gear on the trekking. Should be strong and durable. The best size would be around 30" x 14", with a full-length zipper and handles.

1 rucksack or day pack: The bag is for to accommodate a sweater, rain gear, water bottle, camera and accessories and any miscellaneous items you need to have during the day. We recommend a pack with at least 1450cu. Incapacity, or smaller if you are not carrying a large amount of camera equipment.

Head and Face Gear:

1. Sunhat

2. Sunglasses

3. Warm hat

4. Sunscreen with a very high SPF factor

5. Lip balm with a high SPF factor

6. An emergency light

Hands:

1. Lightweight gloves

Inner Clothing:

1. T-shirts

2. Thermal underwear- Top and bottom. Synthetic is best

3. Underwear

4. 2 shorts

5. 2 Trousers- (comfortable) One thin, one thick and warm

Outer Clothing:

1. down Jacket

2. Fleece Jacket (or a windproof jacket)

3. Waterproof jacket with a hood (or a poncho)

4. Waterproof pants

5. Baggy pants

6. 2 pairs of gloves/mittens (1 thin and 1 thick)

7. 1 sweater to be worn under the fleece jacket

Footwear:

1. Light weight walking boots- (leather is recommended)

2. Spare laces

3. 2 pairs of thick woolen socks.

4. 2 pairs of thin socks to be worn under the woolen socks

5. One pair of sandals or comfortable shoes for camp

Drinking Equipment:

1. Water Bottle

Purification equipment- Boiled drinking water will be provided but further purification with iodine or purification tablets is highly recommended.

Sleeping and Carrying Equipment:

1. 30-40 liter daypack

2. Water Proof Bag-A water proof bag to cover the rucksack

3. Sleeping Bag- Please brings a bag that can resist temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius

Personal Medical Kit:

1. Bandage for sprains

2. Plasters/Band-aids

3. Iodine or water filters

4. Moleskin/Second skin - for blisters

5. Antiseptic ointment for cuts

6. Anti-bacterial throat lozenges (with antiseptic)

7. Aspirin/paracetamol - general painkiller

8. Oral rehydration salts

9. Broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxin)

10. Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic)

11. Diarrhea stopper (Imodium - optional)

12. Diamox (altitude sickness - can be bought in Kathmandu)

13. Sterile Syringe set (anti-AIDS precaution)

Extras/Luxuries:

1. Binoculars

2. Reading book

3. Trail Map/Guide book

4. Journal & Pens

5. Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble

Toiletries:

1. 1 medium sized quick drying towel

2. Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)

3. Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)

4. Deodorant

5. Nail clippers

6. Face and body moisturize

7. Feminine hygiene products

8. Small mirror

Useful Information

Insurance

Following stated things must be submit while you do trips through Incredible Himalayan Sherpa Adventure(IHSA)

√ Your Insuarnce policy must cover accidents, medical expenses

Nepal Visas

Most nationalities require a visa for Nepal, which can be obtained in advance or on entry. If you wish to apply before departure the current visa cost is £20 for a 15 day visa and £35 for a 30 day visa for UK passport holders. The current cost of a visa on arrival is US$25 for 15 days, US$40 for 30 days or if extending your stay $100 for 90 days. All are multiple entry. The visa on arrival fee can be paid for in cash in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Euros. You will also need a passport photo. Application forms are available in the immigration hall (or for electronic passports there are visa registration machines which, after inserting your passport, automatically fill out a form for you). You must firstly join the queue to pay the visa fee, and then go to the relevant immigration desk to obtain your 15, 30 or 90 day visa stamp. There can be long queues for visas on arrival.

Money and Gratuity

Gratuity is, Since the 1960s when rocket climbing in Nepal was developed, there has been a tradition for groups and independent visitors to graduate their crews at the end of a trek. Money and Gratuity; it is best to bring a mixture of cash, USD, GBP, CAD, EUR. Ensure you have also small denominations. As a guideline for baseline spending money we suggest USD 12 - 20 per meal in Kathmandu(if you drink or smoke or plan some major shopping this could be higher). You should exchange enough money into Nepalese Rupees to last the entire time of your trek BEFORE leaving Kathmandu. There are no exchange facilities in the place along the trail but plenty of money changers in KTM.