Sikles Trekking
The Gurung village of Sikles has been established by the ACA project as a model trekking village and is an internal part of their eco-route. It is located to the north east of Pokhara, at about 2000 meters elevation, in the shadow of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. It is a large village, possibly the second largest Gurung village in Nepal, and is a well-preserved example of traditional Gurung culture. While here, the trekker can easily spend several days experiencing local life-style, handicraft production and sight-seeing. Of particular interest are the local cloth weaving and the ancient water driven flour mills.
Above the village is Rising Danda, from where a marvelous panoramic view of the peaks of Annapurna II and Lamjung can be seen. This place is also famous as a point from which to see avalanches thundering down off the mountain sides. Folk songs and dances are an important part of Gurung life and cultural performances are common occurrences in Sikles. Of particular interest here is the Ghantu dance, traditionally performed by three young girls.
Itineraries:
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
Travel by bus or by flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, on the shores of scenic Phewa Lake.
Day 2: Pokhara to Lamakhet/Yangjakot (5 hours)
Trek to Lamakhet, a picturesque village along the Modi River. Overnight in Lamakhet/Yangjakot.
Day 3: Lamakhet/Yangjakot to Sikles Village (5/6 hours)
Trek to Siklis, passing Parju Village along the way.
Day 4: Rest day at Sikles. Explore Sikles and take the opportunity to observe the daily life of the Buddhist Gurung people.
Day 5: Siklis to Ghale Kharka (5 hours)
Trek to Ghalekharka via Tara hilltop overnight at Ghalekharka.
Day 6: Ghale Kharka –Pokhara via Sardi Khola.
Trek for approximately 3 hours to Sardi Khola and then drive to Pokhara (2 hours drive).
Day 7: Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Drive or fly back to Kathmandu. In the afternoon free day is for shopping souvenirs for your family members and friends. In the evening, join our farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant with authentic Nepali meals and traditional culture dances.
