Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal

About Royal Trek

The Royal Trek is one of the Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich short treks, ideal for travelers seeking gentle trails and close contact with rural life. It is named after Prince Charles, who trekked this route in the early 1980s; the Royal trek lies north of Pokhara and offers sweeping views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himalayan ranges. Unlike high-altitude treks, this route stays at relatively low elevations, making it accessible to beginners while still delivering dramatic mountain vistas, terraced hillsides, and tranquil landscapes shaped by lakes, forests, and fertile valleys. It is one of the short, relaxing treks, and the best example of off-the-beaten-path type of trek that Nepal has offered.

The trek typically begins near Pokhara and passes through traditional Gurung and Brahmin villages such as Kalikasthan, Syaklung, and Chisapani. Along the way, trekkers experience authentic village life, walking through terraced farmlands, rhododendron forests, and peaceful ridgelines overlooking the Pokhara valley. One of the highlights is the panoramic views of peaks like Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Lamjung Himal, especially at sunrise and sunset. The route is less crowded than popular treks like Annapurna Base Camp, allowing for a quieter, more reflective journey through nature and culture. The trail is less crowded compared to other trekking in the Annapurna region; the trail offers ample of opportunity to closely observe the nature, culture, and lifestyle of the region.

What makes the Royal trek particularly special is its balance between natural beauty and cultural immersion. Trekkers stay in local teahouses or homestays, enjoying traditional Nepali meals and warm hospitality. The trek usually takes three to five days, making it perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful Himalayan experience. With its moderate difficulty, rich cultural encounters, and stunning mountain scenery, the Royal Trek offers a graceful introduction to the Annapurna region and remains a timeless trail worthy of its royal legacy. It is one of the most famous and easygoing treks with magnificent Annapurna views.

Things to do during the Royal Trek

Here are some of the best things to do during the Royal Trek in the Annapurna region, combining nature, culture, and relaxation:

1: Enjoy Panoramic Mountain Views

Take in stunning views of the Annapurna range, Lamjung Himal, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), especially during sunrise and sunset form ridgelines and hilltop like Chisapani.

2: Explore Traditional Villages

Walk through Gurung and Brahmin villages such as Syaklung and Kalikasthan, observing traditional houses, farming practices, and everyday rural life.

3: Experience Local Culture and Hospitality

Stay in teahouse or homestays, interact with locals, and learn about customs, festivals, and lifestyles unique to the Annapurna foothills.

4: Taste Authentic Nepali Cuisine

Enjoy traditional Nepali meals like dal bhat, local vegetables, homemade pickles, and seasonal fruits prepared with local ingredients.

5: Nature Walks and Bird Watching

Wander through forests of rhododendron, pine, and bamboo, and spot birds, butterflies, and other wildlife native to the region.

6: Photography and Scenic Viewing

Capture terraced farmlands, mountain backdrops, village scenes, and serene landscapes ideal for nature and cultural photography.

7: Visit Lakes and Scenic Valleys

Admire views of Pokhara Valley, nearby lakes, and rolling hills that create a peaceful trekking atmosphere.

8: Relax and Disconnect

Enjoy the quiet trails away from crowded routes, perfect for meditation, reflection, and escaping daily routines.

9: Learn the History of the Royal Trek

Hear stories about Prince Charles’ visit and the historical significance that gives the trail its name.

10: Gentle Hiking and Acclimatization

Use the trek as a warm-up and acclimatization walk before attempting longer or high-altitude treks in the Annapurna region.

The Royal Treks is ideal for travelers seeking a short, scenic, and culturally immersive Himalayan experience without extreme physical demands.

Highlights

  • Royal trek, Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich short trek
  • Ideal for travelers seeking gentle trails and close contact with rural life
  • Offers sweeping views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himalayan ranges
  • Trekkers experience authentic village life, walking through terraced farmlands, rhododendron forests
  • Less crowded trekking trail compared to another trekking trail of Annapurna region
  • Offers ample of opportunity to closely observe the nature, culture, and lifestyle of the region
  • Offer a graceful introduction to the Annapurna region and remains timeless trail worthy of its royal legacy

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu
  • Day 2Sightseeing in Kathmandu
  • Day 3Drive towards Pokhara from Kathmandu
  • Day 4Pokhara to Kalikasthan
  • Day 5Kalikasthan to Syaklung
  • Day 6Syaklung to Chisapani
  • Day 7Chisapani to Begnas Lake and drive back to Pokhara
  • Day 8Drive back to Kathmandu
  • Day 9Departure day
Day to day details itinerary

What's Included

  • Airport pick up and drop by private vehicle
  • From Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu by local bus (you can also take private vehicle by adding extra cost)
  • Also take domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu by adding extra cost
  • Three-time meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during trekking
  • Fluently English-speaking and government licensed holder guide
  • Trekking certification after trekking completion
  • Extra day accommodation at Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Lunch and Dinner at Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Travel insurance and rescue operation fee

Useful Information

Best time to do the Royal Trek

The best time to do the Roya Trek in the Annapurna region is during spring (March to May). In these months, the weather is mild and stable, making the trek comfortable even for beginners. Days are warm, nights are cool, and the trail is filled with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, which add color to the landscape. Visibility is generally good, offering clear views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. Since the Royal Trek is a short and relatively easy route, spring is ideal for enjoying nature without dealing with extreme cold or heavy rain.

Another excellent time for the Royal Trek is autumn (September to November). After the monsoon season ends, the skies become clear and fresh, providing some of the best mountain views of the year. Temperatures are pleasant, and humidity is low, making walking enjoyable throughout the day. Trails are dry and well-defined, and the overall scenery is green and vibrant from the recent rains. Autumn is also the most popular trekking season in Nepal, so while the route may be busier, the conditions are reliable and rewarding for a memorable trekking experience.

Is the Royal Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Royal Trek is highly suitable for beginners and often recommended for the first-time trekkers in Nepal. This trek is relatively short, usually completed within a week, and follows a gentle trail through traditional villages, terraced farmland, and forested hills rather than steep, high-altitude mountain passes. The maximum elevation reached is around 1700 meters, which significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and makes the trek comfortable for people with average fitness levels. Daily walking hours are manageable, and the path is well-defined, allowing beginners to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than copying with physical strain. The trek also offers a rewarding cultural experience, as it passes through Gurung and other local communities where trekkers can learn about rural Nepali lifestyles.

Another reason why the Royal Trek is ideal for beginners is the availability of basic infrastructure and flexible trekking options. Teahouses or homestays along the route provide simple accommodation and meals, so beginners do not need extensive camping equipment or technical trekking skill. The trek is close to Pokhara, making logistics easy and reducing travel stress. Beginners can also choose to trek with a guide or porter, which adds safety, local knowledge, and confidence on the trail. While the trek does not offer extremely close-up views of the Himalayan peaks, it is still providing beautiful panoramas of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre. Overall, the Royal Trek is a safe, gentle, and rewarding introduction to trekking in the Himalayas, making it an excellent choice for beginners seeking both natural beauty and cultural immersion.