Annapurna Skyline Trek (Royal Trek) A Short Himalayan Adventure Near Pokhara
Nepal offers breathtaking treks, but the majority cannot participate in such trips due to lack of time, expertise, or desire. If you want to experience the Himalayan wilderness within the span of a few days, the Annapurna Skyline Trek is the right choice for you. It is often known as the Royal Trek.
Named after a visit by Prince Charles in the early 1980s, the Royal Trek in Nepal is a short, scenic trek near Pokhara that offers rich cultural experiences, peaceful trails, and striking views of the Annapurna range without the crowds you’ll find on more famous routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Royal Trek: its history, route, highlights, gear, logistics, and what makes it such a special choice for trekkers looking for something different.
Why This Trek Stands Out
The Royal Trek is not that well-known, and that’s part of what makes it a hidden gem in the Annapurna region. Out of ten trek-goers on the way to the Annapurna Base Camp, only one might opt for this less crowded trail. The route meanders through hillside villages, terraced farms, pine forests, and open ridgelines—offering clear and consistent views of the mountains, never draped in fog.
Although the high Himalayas are visible at all times, they are not overwhelming. Instead, the pace of the trek allows you to connect with the surrounding villages and natural beauty. You get the vibes of the daily lives of the people in rural Nepal. The landscapes are constantly shifting, offering a deep sense of immersion in Nepali culture.
Literally, we are always looking at those giant peaks Machapuchare, Annapurna II, Langtang Himal, even Dhaulagiri are just a piece of the cake you can get. These peaks are also visible from the terraces where women spread out corn to dry or work in the chili fields.
Found in the middle of the trek, you will pass schools, temples, and grazing buffalo—all with snow-capped mountain tops in the background. Early in the morning is the best time to catch it, when the smoke still spirals from the chimneys.
The Himalayan mountains are always in the background, but they are neither passive nor out of our way. They are a constant presence throughout this peaceful and meaningful trek.
1. How long does the Royal Trek take?
Most of the people do Royal Trek in 4 days but it can be done in 3 or 5 days depending on your speed and liking of staying in villages for longer.
2. What is the highest point on the Royal Trek?
The highest point is approximately 1,730 meters (Syaglung), so it is perfect for those who want to trek without being disturbed by the high altitude.
3. Is the Royal Trek difficult?
The trek is not difficult. It is one of the easiest treks in the Annapurna region. There are some parts where we go up and some down but it is quite easy for the beginners, families and older trekkers to manage.
4. When is the best time to do the Royal Trek?
The best time are months from October to May. However, this trek can be quite a nice option even in the monsoon (June to August) as the area experiences less rainfall and the trails remain relatively dry.
5. Do I need a permit for the Royal Trek?
Absolutely yes. The following you will definitely need:
- ACAP permit (Annapurna Conservation Area): NPR 3,000
- TIMS card: NPR 2,000These can be gotten from Pokhara or Kathmandu.
6. Where does the Royal Trek start and end?
To reach the start of the trek one has to drive from Pokhara to Bijayapur, the end of the trek is at Begnas Lake, a quiet place near the city. Both are quite easily accessible.
7. Are there teahouses or homestays along the way?
They are there without a doubt. Basic teahouses or family-run homestays are available in every village on the trail, providing beds, meals and simple comfort.A sample menu would be dal bhat, noodles, eggs, tea and local vegetables etc…
8. What should I pack for the Royal Trek?
As the trek is at low altitude, you don’t really have to carry heavy stuff. Footwear suitable for walking, a raincoat (particularly in the summer), some warm clothes for the mornings and evenings, and a daypack of a smaller size are all you need. Also, make sure to have a water bottle that can be refilled and your camera with you.
9. Can I do the Royal Trek solo?
Of course, though having a licensed guide or being part of a group would be better, especially if you are interested in the local culture and want to make sure you don’t get lost. The trail is quite easy, but signs can be sparse.
10. Why is it called the Royal Trek?
On the occasion of the visit of a team led by Prince Charles of the UK in the early 1980s, they traversed this route. It has been called the “Royal Trek” ever since. However, the trek has not become busier, and it is still one of the most tranquil treks in Nepal.
Day 1: Pokhara (827m) Bijayapur (820m) Kalikasthan (1,370m)
Drive: 30 minutes from Pokhara to Bijayapur (approx. 820 meters) Trek: 4 to 5 hours Altitude 1,370 meters
The trek that you’ve planned begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Bijayapur, a small settlement near the valley floor. The trail follows a gentle slope at first through rice paddies and small villages. You ascend steadily and continuously over 500 meters to reach Kalikasthan, a peaceful ridge-top village with wide views of the Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna range. You will be staying overnight at a teahouse or homestay.
Day 2: Kalikasthan (1,370m) Syaglung (1,730m)
Trek: 5 to 6 hours Elevation Gain 360 meters Overnight Altitude: 1,730 meters
Today’s trek is quite a bit of ups and downs along the ridge of the hills and the landscape is very scenic. You will descend and ascend through pine forests, terraced farms, and small Gurung and Brahmin villages. The trail gives panoramic views of Machapuchare (6,993m) and Annapurna II (7,937m) on the way. Reach Syaglung, a picturesque village that spots on a hillside, and the wide view of the Himalayan range is its specialty. Here you will have your sleep at the highest point of altitude for the whole trek.
Day 3: Syaglung (1,730m) Chisapani (1,550m)
Trek: 4 to 5 hours Elevation Loss 180 meters Overnight Altitude: 1,550 meters
It was best to start going down from Syaglung through thick and green forest and also through the hills which are under cultivation. The route goes through quiet villages and sporadic schoolyards with dramatic mountain backdrops. Indeed, you are going a bit downhill in general, but the trail has some small ascending errors. Reach Chisapani, a small town on the hill known for its relaxed atmosphere as well as sunrise and sunset views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal.
Day 4: Chisapani (1,550m) – Begnas Lake (650m) – Pokhara (827m)
Trek: 2 to 3 hours Elevation Loss: ~900 meters Drive: 1 hour Ending Altitude in Pokhara: 827 meters
Go down slowly through the fields and the forest toward Begnas Lake, which is situated at approximately 650 meters above the sea level. In addition, this tranquil lake is an excellent spot for you to end the trek with a rest or a boat ride. Then, you will drive for 1 hour back to Pokhara. The early afternoon is the best time to be there.
