Sikles Trek
Sikles Trek Overview
The Sikles Trek is a short, easy, and culturally rich adventure in the Annapurna region, perfect for those seeking a less crowded trail and an authentic immersion into traditional Gurung village life. This trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the warm hospitality, local lifestyle, and stunning mountain views without the strenuous demands of longer treks.
The journey begins in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara. The trek then winds through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and beautiful forested trails, with each day leading you deeper into the heart of Gurung country. You'll stay in authentic homestays in villages like Thulakot, Taprang, and Lamakhet, experiencing firsthand the local culture, traditions, and warm hospitality of the Gurung people.
The highlight of the trek is reaching the traditional Gurung village of Sikles, where you'll spend a full day exploring. Here, you can observe the daily life of the Buddhist Gurung community, visit the Eco-Museum to learn about their history and culture, and take in the beautiful views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and Dhampus Peak. An optional side trip to the sacred Khapuche Lake adds to the adventure.
This trek is ideal for beginners, families, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful and authentic Himalayan experience away from the main tourist trails.
Things That You Need to Know
Duration & Difficulty
Why This Suits Complete Beginners — Gentle walking days and a cultural focus make it one of the easiest treks in the Annapurna region.
Altitude
Low-Altitude Profile (Max 3,000m) — Sikles village itself sits at just 1,980m — altitude sickness is not a real concern here.
Accommodation & Meals
The Homestay Experience — Nights in Thulakot, Taprang, Lamakhet, and Sikles are spent with local Gurung families, sharing home-cooked meals.
Cultural Experience
Sikles Eco-Museum — Showcases Gurung history, Buddhist heritage, traditional tools, and clothing.
Optional Khapuche Lake Side Trip — A sacred high-altitude lake near Sikles, added as an optional day hike.
Best For: Beginners, families with older children, and cultural travelers seeking an easy, less-crowded trek
The Homestay Experience
Sikles Eco-Museum
What You'll See Inside — Traditional tools, clothing, and artifacts tracing Gurung Buddhist heritage.
Low-Altitude Profile (Max 3,000m)
Good for Families with Older Children — Confirmed suitable for families with older kids and teens given the gentle profile.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a member of Global Nepal Treks and transferred directly to your hotel on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Free Day in Kathmandu
Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu. Your hotel stay includes breakfast. Use this day to explore the vibrant city at your own pace or simply relax.
Drive to Pokhara
Depart from Kathmandu and embark on a scenic drive to Pokhara. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel with breakfast included.
Drive & Trek to Thulakot
Journey from Pokhara to Thulakot. Spend the night at a homestay, immersing yourself in local culture and hospitality.
Trek to Taprang
Trek from Thulakot to Taprang, continuing your journey through picturesque landscapes and staying at a homestay.
Trek to Lamakhet
Trek from Taprang to Lamakhet, experiencing the tranquility of the surroundings and the warmth of local hospitality at a homestay.
Trek to Siklis
Trek from Lamakhet to the main village of Siklis, continuing your journey through scenic landscapes and staying at a homestay.
A Day Immersed in Gurung Village Life — Observing daily Buddhist Gurung community life without any trekking that day.
A break from trekking to explore Siklis. Observe the daily life of the Buddhist Gurung people, immerse in their culture, and visit the Eco-Museum. Overnight at a homestay.
Trek to Thumke-Danda
Resume trekking from Siklis to Thumke-Danda, enjoying the scenic beauty and staying at a homestay.
Trek to Pokhara
Trek from Thumke Danda to Pokhara, where you will spend the night at a hotel with breakfast included.
Drive back to Kathmandu
Return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu by road. Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
Departure
Depart from Kathmandu to your onward destination.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Private airport pick-up and drop-off transfers
- All ground transportation (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu, and local transfers)
- Kathmandu sightseeing (if included in itinerary)
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (including breakfast in cities and all meals during homestay trek)
- Accommodation: 3 nights in Kathmandu hotel (BB), 1 night in Pokhara hotel (BB), and 6 nights in homestays during the trek
- An experienced English-speaking guide
- Porter services (as required)
- All necessary trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
- Guide and porter insurance
- Global Nepal Treks duffel bags (refundable)
- Global Nepal Trek's Appreciation Certificate
- Company T-shirt as a souvenir
- Farewell dinner
Excluded
- Nepal entry visa fee (approx. $40 USD for 60 days, obtainable on arrival)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Trekking equipment and any personal expenses (alcoholic beverages, phone usage, laundry)
- Emergency rescue and travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Trip cancellation cost due to accident, health, loss, theft, or damage
- Tips for guides, porters, and other service staff
Essential Information
Trip Code
GNT-SKT
Trip Type
Cultural homestay trek through Gurung villages, no technical difficulty
Accommodation
Authentic homestays on trek; hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Meals
Home-cooked meals during homestay nights; breakfast only in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Transportation
Car,Jeep
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the absolute best seasons — expect crystal-clear mountain views and comfortable trail temperatures. Because the trek stays at a lower altitude (max 3,000m), it remains accessible year-round, unlike higher Himalayan treks that close in winter. Monsoon (June–August) is possible, but trails may be slippery and views obstructed by clouds. Winter (December–February) is cold but manageable — pack extra warm layers for chilly evenings in the villages.
Difficulty Level
Rated Easy — one of the most beginner-friendly treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Daily walking hours range from 3–5 hours on gentle, well-marked trails through terraced fields and forested paths. No steep technical sections or high-altitude passes — the trails are smooth and gradual throughout. Perfectly designed for first-time trekkers, families, senior travelers, and cultural enthusiasts who prefer experience over endurance.
Fitness Requirements
Preparation Tips
Equipment List
Health Considerations
Safety Measures
Permits Required
Permit Cost: $50.00
Cultural Etiquette
Local Customs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sikles Trek?
The Sikles Trek is a short, easy, and culturally immersive trek in the Annapurna region. It focuses on experiencing the traditional lifestyle of the Gurung people in the beautiful village of Sikles, with stunning mountain views and authentic homestay accommodations.
How long is the Sikles Trek?
The trekking days are typically 5-7 days within a total itinerary of 9-12 days, including travel from Kathmandu. Our 12-day itinerary provides a relaxed pace with ample time for cultural exploration.
What is the difficulty level of the Sikles Trek?
This trek is considered easy and is suitable for beginners, families, and trekkers of all levels. The trails are gentle, and the altitudes are moderate, making it a perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking.
What are the main highlights of this trek?
Highlights include staying in authentic homestays, immersing in Gurung culture, exploring the Eco-Museum in Sikles village, stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, trekking through beautiful forests, and the optional side trip to Khapuche Lake.
What is the accommodation like on this trek?
A unique feature is the authentic homestay experience. You will stay with local Gurung families in their homes, sharing meals and learning about their daily life. Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara are also included.
What is the best time to do the Sikles Trek?
The best times are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) for the clearest weather and best mountain views. The trek can also be done in other seasons due to its lower altitude.
What permits are required for this trek?
You will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card. These are included in our package and will be arranged for you.
What is special about Sikles village?
Sikles is a large, traditional Gurung village known for its well-preserved culture, stone-paved streets, and stunning mountain views. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the authentic lifestyle of the Gurung people and features an informative Eco-Museum.
Do I need a guide for this trek?
While the trail is not extremely difficult, a guide is highly recommended for cultural insights, navigation, and facilitating the homestay experience. Our package includes an experienced English-speaking guide.
What should I pack for this trek?
Essentials include comfortable trekking clothing, sturdy walking shoes, warm layers for cooler evenings, a daypack, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a refillable water bottle, and a camera. A small gift for your homestay host family is a nice gesture.
What is the Khapuche Lake side trip?
Khapuche Lake is a sacred lake located at a higher altitude near Sikles. The optional side trip involves a day hike to this beautiful lake, offering even more stunning views and a deeper experience of the region's natural beauty.
Is this trek suitable for families with children?
Yes, this trek is excellent for families with older children and teenagers due to its easy difficulty, short walking days, and the incredibly rewarding cultural experience of staying in homestays.
What is the Eco-Museum in Sikles?
The Eco-Museum in Sikles showcases the history, culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Gurung people. It is a fascinating place to learn about their unique customs, tools, clothing, and Buddhist heritage.
Do I need travel insurance for this trek?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. It should cover medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation, even for an easy trek.
How does this trek compare to other Annapurna treks?
How Sikles Compares to Annapurna Circuit or Base Camp — Significantly easier, shorter, and more culturally focused than the region's bigger-name treks.