Trekking · Nepal
The Royal Trek (Pokhara)
An easy 3–4 day ridge walk east of Pokhara through Gurung villages, with low altitude and fine Annapurna and Lamjung Himal views.
The Royal Trek is one of the gentlest short treks in Nepal — an easy 3–4 day ridge walk east of Pokhara through Gurung and Brahmin-Chhetri villages, with low altitude and fine views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal and Manaslu. It takes its name from Prince Charles, who trekked it in the early 1980s, and remains a peaceful, low-key cultural walk.
Overview and highlights
The trek follows the rolling ridges between Pokhara and the Begnas and Rupa lakes, far from the busier Annapurna trails. The highlights are the timeless hill-village life, the terraced farmland, and the open ridge views of the high Himalaya to the north. Because it stays low and quiet, it is a relaxed companion to other easy walks like the Panchase trek and the Australian Camp and Dhampus trek on the western side of Pokhara.
Itinerary
A typical 3-day plan from Pokhara:
| Day | Stage | Approx. altitude |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive to Bijayapur, trek to Kalikasthan | 1,370 m |
| 2 | Kalikasthan to Syaklung via ridge villages | 1,730 m |
| 3 | Trek to Chisapani (near Begnas), drive to Pokhara | 1,000 m |
A fourth day can be added to finish slowly at Begnas Lake.
Difficulty and fitness
This is an easy trek. It stays mostly below 1,800 metres, so there is no altitude risk, and the daily walks are short with gentle climbs along the ridges. It is well suited to families, older walkers and first-timers. As always, it is worth understanding altitude sickness before attempting higher Himalayan routes elsewhere.
Best time
Autumn (October–November) and winter give the clearest Annapurna views from the ridges, with stable skies. Spring (March–May) is warm and green with rhododendron colour at the higher points. The summer monsoon brings cloud, mud and leeches, so it is best avoided; see the best time to visit Nepal.
Permits and cost
Part of the route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need the ACAP permit (around USD 25) and a TIMS card (around USD 17–20). It is an inexpensive trek with short days, so on-trail costs are modest beyond lodging, meals and transport. For kit and seasons, read our Nepal trekking guide.
Getting there
The trek is staged from Pokhara, with a short drive to the Bijayapur or Begnas-side trailhead. Accommodation along the route is in simple village lodges or homestays, in keeping with the trek's quiet, cultural character. For a longer village walk nearby, see the Sikles trek.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the Royal Trek?+
The route earned its name after Britain's Prince Charles trekked it in the early 1980s with a large entourage. Since then the gentle ridge walk east of Pokhara has been known as the Royal Trek, and it has remained a quiet, low-altitude favourite.
How long is the Royal Trek?+
The Royal Trek usually takes 3 to 4 days from Pokhara. It is a relaxed loop through hill villages on the ridges east of Phewa Lake, with short daily walks and overnight stays in simple village lodges or camps.
How difficult is the Royal Trek?+
It is easy. The trek stays at low altitude, mostly below 1,800 metres, with gentle ridges and short walking days, so there is no altitude risk and only modest climbs. It suits families, older walkers and complete beginners.
What permits do I need for the Royal Trek?+
Part of the route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need the ACAP permit, around USD 25, plus a TIMS card, around USD 17 to 20. Both are quick to arrange in Pokhara. The walk passes Gurung villages with views to Annapurna, Lamjung Himal and Manaslu.
