Trip Fact

Destination

Annapurna

Duration

8 Days

Difficulty

Easy

Group Size

2-30 Persons

Max altitude

1730m.

Best time

All seasons

Activities

Trekking / Hiking

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Start from

Pokhara

End at

Pokhara

Royal Trek overview

The Royal Trek is one of the most charming and shortest treks in the Annapurna region, offering an easy and peaceful walking experience along the foothills north of Pokhara Valley. This scenic route gained its name after Prince Charles of the United Kingdom and his entourage of 90 people trekked here in the early 1980s.

The Royal Trek is ideal for those who seek a short yet culturally rich Himalayan experience, away from the bustling trails of Annapurna and Everest. The journey begins from Pokhara, the beautiful lake city, and follows a ridge that meanders through picturesque Gurung and Magar villages, terraced rice fields, and wooded hills. Throughout the trek, you’ll be rewarded with majestic views of Annapurna I, II, III, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Langtang Himal.

Ending at the tranquil Begnas Lake, the trek offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and serenity. It’s especially suited for beginners, families, or travelers with limited time who want to experience authentic Nepalese village life and the beauty of the mid-hills without strenuous climbs or high altitudes.

Royal Trek highlights

  • Follow the Footsteps of Royalty: Walk the same path once explored by Prince Charles and his team in the 1980s.
  • Short, Easy & Culturally Rich: Perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed trekking experience near Pokhara.
  • Charming Gurung Villages: Discover traditional settlements, ancient customs, and warm hospitality of the Gurung community.
  • Magnificent Mountain Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre, and Langtang Himal.
  • Terraced Farmlands & Forests: Walk through lush green paddy fields, forests of rhododendron and sal, and scenic ridges.
  • Peaceful Lakeside Ending: Finish your trek at Begnas and Rupa Lakes, enjoying boating and relaxation before returning to Pokhara.
  • Less Crowded & Authentic: Experience the tranquility of rural Nepal away from the busy trekking routes.

Royal Trek itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively tourist district filled with cafes, markets, and temples.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, passing terraced farmlands, rivers, and small towns. Upon reaching Pokhara, the beautiful lakeside city, check into your hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, visit Tal Barahi Temple, or relax by the lakeside.
Overnight in Pokhara.

After breakfast, a short drive takes you to Bijaypur Khola, where the trek begins. You’ll cross paddy fields and small streams before ascending through a gentle trail surrounded by villages and farmland. After a few hours, you’ll reach Kalikasthan, located on a scenic ridge offering beautiful views of Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna range.
Trekking: 4–5 hrs | Overnight in a local guesthouse.

Today’s trek follows a peaceful trail along a ridge with excellent views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. You’ll pass through charming villages, meet friendly locals, and explore rhododendron forests along the way. Syaglung is a traditional Gurung village where you can experience authentic rural life.
Trekking: 5–6 hrs | Overnight in a local guesthouse.

Walk through dense forests and small Gurung settlements. You’ll descend about 400 meters and then ascend 600 meters to reach Chisapani, a beautiful hilltop village famous for its wide Himalayan panorama. On a clear day, you can see Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal shining in the distance.

Trekking: 5–6 hrs | Overnight in a local guesthouse.

Today is the final and most scenic day of your trek. Descend gently through villages and terraced fields to Rupa Lake, then climb to Sundare Danda Ridge for a bird’s-eye view of Begnas and Rupa Lakes. After a short descent, reach Begnas Lake, where you can enjoy an hour of boating before driving back to Pokhara. Spend the evening exploring Lakeside Pokhara.
Trekking: 4–5 hrs | Drive: 1 hr | Overnight in Pokhara.

After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic countryside views one last time. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax or enjoy souvenir shopping in Thamel.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, our team will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. Bid farewell to the Himalayas with wonderful memories of your Royal Trek in Nepal.
Departure Day.

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • Airport pickup & drop-off
  • All ground transport as per the itinerary
  • Twin-share hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara on Bed & Breakfast (BB) basis
  • Twin/multi-share lodge accommodation during the trek
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) & TIMS card
  • 1 Porter for every 2 trekkers (15 kg luggage allowance per trekker)
  • English-speaking professional trekking guide
  • Comprehensive first-aid medical kit

What’s Not Included

  • International flight tickets
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, phone, etc.)
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Emergency evacuation (if needed)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra expenses due to unforeseen events (weather, delays, etc.)
  • Optional domestic flight

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Additional Information

Packing List for Ghorepani Royal Trek

Proper preparation and smart packing are essential for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable Royal Trek. One of the most popular short treks in Nepal’s Annapurna Region, this scenic journey offers breathtaking mountain views, rhododendron forests, charming Gurung and Magar villages.

The trek can be completed in 4 to 8 days, depending on your itinerary and starting point. Although the trekking route has well-developed teahouses and basic facilities, weather conditions can change quickly, especially during the spring, autumn, and winter seasons. Therefore, it is important to pack appropriate clothing and essential trekking gear.

This comprehensive packing list covers everything you need for the Royal Trek while helping you keep your backpack light and manageable.

Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking trekking T-shirts
  • Thermal base layers (tops and bottoms)
  • Trekking pants
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof trekking pants
  • Fleece jacket
  • Fleece pants (optional)
  • Windproof jacket
  • Down jacket (can be rented)
  • Down vest (optional)
  • Insulated hoodie
  • Woolen sweater (optional)
  • Beanie or woolen hat
  • Scarf or Buff
  • Warm insulated gloves
  • Lightweight liner gloves

Footwear

  • Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Lightweight sneakers or camp shoes
  • Trekking sandals or slippers
  • Flip-flops (optional)
  • Lightweight trekking socks
  • Warm wool or thermal socks (3–4 pairs)

Trekking Gear

  • Waterproof daypack (20–40 liters)
  • Duffel bag (provided by us)
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented)
  • Adjustable trekking poles (can be rented)
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Extra batteries

Sun Protection

  • Wide-brimmed sun hat or cap
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Lightweight sun gloves (optional)

First Aid Kit & Personal Medications

  • Personal prescription medicines
  • Pain relievers (Paracetamol or Ibuprofen)
  • Altitude sickness medication (Diamox – consult your doctor before use)
  • Anti-diarrheal medicine
  • Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)
  • Cough drops
  • Adhesive bandages (Band-Aids)
  • Plaster bandages
  • Medical tape
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Alcohol wipes
  • Blister treatment
  • Sprain relief spray
  • Tweezers
  • Small scissors
  • Thermometer

Personal Care Essentials

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Dental floss
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Shampoo
  • Quick-drying travel towel
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toilet paper
  • Moisturizing cream
  • Anti-chafing cream
  • Deodorant
  • Razor (if needed)
  • Nail clippers
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Compact mirror

Important Documents

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Nepal visa
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (we will arrange it)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Emergency contact details
  • Personal medical records or prescriptions (if required)
  • Credit or debit cards
  • Cash in Nepalese Rupees

Electronics & Navigation

  • Mobile phone with offline maps
  • Power bank
  • Camera (optional)
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Solar charger (optional)
  • Trekking route map (printed or digital)
  • Compass (optional)
  • Altimeter watch (optional)

Food, Snacks & Hydration

  • Energy bars or protein bars
  • Dry fruits and nuts
  • Chocolates or candies
  • Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
  • Electrolyte powder
  • Water purification tablets (optional)
  • Light packaged snacks

Miscellaneous Items

  • Zip-lock bags
  • Small padlocks
  • Notebook and pen
  • Travel pillow (optional)
  • Earplugs
  • Eye mask
  • Waterproof pouch for valuables
  • Trash bags for personal waste

Essentials for Female Trekkers

  • Personal prescription medications
  • Sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cup
  • Panty liners
  • Biodegradable disposal bags
  • Comfortable sports bras
  • Hair ties, clips, or headbands
  • Lightweight scarf
  • Feminine hygiene products

Additional Packing for Summer & Monsoon Trekking

During the summer and monsoon seasons (June to September), expect frequent rainfall, muddy trails, and leeches. Waterproof equipment is highly recommended.

Clothing

  • Waterproof rain jacket
  • Waterproof trekking pants
  • Rain poncho
  • Lightweight raincoat
  • Compact umbrella
  • Extra quick-drying clothing
  • Quick-drying towel

Gear & Other Essentials

  • Backpack rain cover
  • Waterproof trekking boots with excellent grip
  • Dry bags for electronics and clothing
  • Waterproof pouch for phone and camera
  • Leg gaiters (can be rented)
  • Insect repellent
  • Anti-leech socks
  • Extra moisture-wicking socks

Additional Packing for Winter Trekking

Winter (December to February) brings colder temperatures, occasional snowfall, and icy trails, requiring extra insulation.

Clothing & Footwear

  • Extra thermal base layers
  • Heavy down jacket (can be rented)
  • Insulated trekking pants
  • Warm wool socks
  • Waterproof insulated trekking boots
  • Warm beanie that covers the ears
  • Balaclava
  • Neck warmer or Buff
  • Mittens or insulated gloves

Gear & Other Essentials

  • Microspikes (can be rented)
  • Sleeping bag liner (optional for additional warmth)
  • Insulated water bottle or thermos
  • Insulated sitting mat (optional)
  • Hand warmers and toe warmers
  • Extra power bank
  • Spare headlamp batteries

Rental Equipment Available

To reduce your luggage weight, you can rent the following trekking equipment in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trek:

  • Down Jacket
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Trekking Poles
  • Microspikes (winter)
  • Leg Gaiters (monsoon and winter)

Note: If you are trekking with a porter, the recommended maximum weight for your duffel bag is 20 kg (22 lbs) per trekker. Carry your passport, money, electronics, water bottle, camera, snacks, and other daily essentials in your daypack.

Photos

Annapurna Royal Trek
Royal Trek near Pokhara
Royal Trekking to Begnas Tal

Royal Trek Map

Annapurna Royal Trek Route Map

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the Royal Trek?

Because Prince Charles and his 90-member entourage trekked this route in the early 1980s, making it famous as the “Royal Trek.”

How difficult is the Royal Trek?

It’s one of the easiest treks in Nepal — suitable for beginners, families, and older travelers. The trails are gentle and the altitude remains below 2,000 meters.

What is the best time for this trek?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is clear and views are spectacular.

What kind of accommodation is available?

You’ll stay in basic teahouses or local guesthouses during the trek, and in comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Is a trekking permit required?

Yes, you’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card, both arranged by your trekking agency.

How long is the Royal Trek?

The trek typically takes 4 trekking days (plus travel days), making it a perfect short adventure near Pokhara.

Can I extend the trek?

Yes, it can be extended with a stay at Begnas Lake or combined with other treks like the Annapurna Panorama or Ghandruk Loop.

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