Sikles

Village & culturePahadHidden gem1 min read

In Nepali: सिक्लेस

Sikles, Kaski
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal, in the Madi valley under Lamjung Himal and Annapurna IV.

Sikles spreads across a steep slope above the Madi Khola, north-east of Pokhara. It is a traditional Gurung village of stone houses and terraced fields, and a starting point for walks up to Kapuche glacier lake and the high pastures below the Annapurnas.

Far fewer trekkers come here than to Ghandruk, and community lodges and homestays welcome visitors. The road now reaches the village, making a two- or three-day trip possible from Pokhara.

What to see and do

Walk through the village's stone lanes, visit the old Gurung houses and monastery, and hike up towards Tara Hill or the Kapuche glacier lake for close views of the Annapurna IV and Lamjung Himal. Traditional Gurung songs and dances are often performed for guests.

Good to know

ACAP permit required. Accommodation is in community lodges and homestays. The Kapuche lake trip is a long day or an overnight camping trip and needs a local guide.

Quick answers

Where is Sikles?
Sikles is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
What is the altitude of Sikles?
About 1,980 m (6,496 ft) above sea level.
How much does it cost to visit Sikles?
Sikles is in or right next to Pokhara, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Pokhara, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
How many days do I need for Sikles?
Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Pokhara.
Do I need a permit or ticket for Sikles?
No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
When is the best time to visit Sikles?
October–May
How do I get to Sikles?
About 3–4 hours by jeep from Pokhara. It is about 23 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
What is Sikles called in Nepali?
सिक्लेस
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