Kalikasthan Thulakot Hill Day Hike

Overview of Kalikasthan Thulakot Hill

Kalikasthan Thulakot day hike is one of the stunning yet underrated hiking trails from Pokhara, which you can complete within a day. This hike will offer you a diverse experience from witnessing the 360 view of Annarpurna range, Beautiful Pokhara, and Lekhnath Valleys. 

Hikers looking for breathtaking views, cultural diversity, and forest-shrouded trails in a manageable day trip from town will love the Kalikasthan to Thulakot day hike.

This Thulakot Pokhara hiking trail is ideal for time-limited tourists who still wish to experience the Himalayan magic because it combines expansive mountain views, local village life, and an easy level of trekking difficulty. This route offers authenticity, accessibility, and beauty for hikers of all skill levels.

Kalikasthan Thulakot Hike Itinerary Overview

Pokhara to Thulakot Hill via Kalikasthan Hiking Itinerary

Lakeside to Kalikasthan (6:00 to 6:45 AM)

• After having a quick breakfast at one of the lavish restaurants in Lakeside, you will drive to Kalikasthan. You will pass through the busy city of Pokhara towards a more remote and peaceful atmosphere.
• It will take about 40 to 45 minutes to reach a small village named Kalikastahan, from where you will begin your hike.

Kalikasthan to Thulakot Hill (7:00 to 9:00 AM)

• Your walk for Thulakot Pokhara begins at the small rural market known as Kalikasthan Bazaar. Before beginning your walk, you can get bottled water or last-minute necessities here.
• The trail begins with a slow ascent up well-kept stone steps. You'll pass by picturesque Gurung houses, local farms, and mango trees in bloom. Hikers are frequently greeted with friendly smiles by the villagers, and you may spot people carrying freshly harvested crops or oxen ploughing fields.
• The trail occasionally opens up to provide far-off views of hills and valleys, and the air is filled with the sound of birdsong.
• After walking for about 2 hours, you will reach the beautiful Thulakot Hills. From there, you can enjoy the immense beauty of nature.

Thulakot to Begnas Lake (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM)

• Enjoy the life-lasting, memorable view from the top of Thulakot, where you can enjoy snow-crowned Mountains, Lush hills, stunning lakes, rivers, villages, and cities, in a single frame.
• You can also climb to the top of the view tower for a more pleasant view.
• Have your breakfast with available cuisines such as bread, egg, local foods, and vegetables, and tea or coffee.
• After strolling in this heavenly place for some time, descend towards the beautiful Begnas Lake. Passing lush forests and some small villages.

Begnas Lake to Lakeside (3:00 to 4:00 PM)

• Begnas Tal is one of the most famous lakes in Nepal. Apart from enjoying its immense beauty, you can spend your time in various activities such as boating, taking photographs, sightseeing, and others.
• You will have a variety of options to have lunch around Begnas Lake, which serve various categories of dishes.
• After enjoying your time in the beautiful Begnas Tal, you will conclude your Kalikasthan Thulakot One Day Hike and head back to Lakeside in a bus, or you can also hire a cab.

Packing Essentials for Thulakot Kalikasthan One Day Hike 

On your one-day tour of the Thulakot Hiking from Pokhara, you may not need to pack much. You must carry these items:

• Seasonally suitable clothing that is comfortable.
• Sunblock
• Sunglasses
• A cozy pair of shoes
• lightweight backpack
• Any medications you may be taking
• An umbrella or raincoat (during the rainy season)
• Trekking Pole
• A bottle of water
• Passport or National ID

Best Time to Visit

A trip to the beautiful Pokhara Thulakot Hill, passing Kalikasthan, and Begnas Lake, is always a pleasant journey. No matter the time of the year, this adventure will always offer you exciting thrills with lush beauty. 

Spring (March to May) for Kalikasthan Thulakot Pokhara Hike

• Best for rhododendron blooms that fill the forests with vibrant colors
• Clear mountain views make it ideal for photography and sunrise hikes
• Mild temperatures make the trek pleasant

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

• Lush greenery blankets the landscape, creating a rich and fresh ambiance
• Occasional rain and slippery trails require careful hiking and rain gear
• Fewer crowds make for a more serene and private trekking experience

Autumn (September to November)

• Crisp weather with dry, stable conditions for trekking
• Excellent visibility of snow-capped peaks and vibrant fall colors
• Peak trekking season with a lively trail atmosphere and festivals in nearby villages

Winter (December to February)

• Cold mornings and chilly nights, so layering is essential
• Clear skies provide excellent views of snow-covered mountains
• Snow-dusted peaks and quiet trails offer a peaceful winter trekking experience

History of Thulakot

Thulakot Pokhara, a significant hilltop kingdom in Nepal's Chaubisi Rajya, played a crucial role in the region's pre-unification era. Before Prithvi Narayan Shah's 18th-century unification, Thulakot provided a strategic advantage and administrative control over surrounding settlements, now part of Kaski District.

Thulakot, a 1,700-meter-high fort palace, served as a crucial lookout point for ancient rulers to monitor enemy movements and manage trade routes. Today, its ruins showcase its past through crumbling stone foundations and centuries-old walls.

Thulakot Nepal, renowned for its panoramic views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung ranges, Fewa, and Begnas Lakes, is not just a hiking destination but a cultural heritage fusion that combines Nepal's history with the majesty of its landscape.

What to Expect in a One-Day Thulakot Hike?

Day tour to Thulakot along with Begnas Lake and Kalikasthan is a once in a life time experience. This experience offers:

• As you enter the serene hills and clean country air, you will feel a tranquil escape from Pokhara's bustling streets.
• You will pass terraced farms, traditional homes, and amiable locals going about their everyday lives as you walk through an authentic village.
• The moderate trail is appropriate for both novice and experienced hikers, following well-maintained stone steps, forest paths, and mild ridgelines.
• Magnificent views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Lamjung Himal, and Pokhara Valley await you as you ascend.
• At Thulakot, you can ascend a view tower to get a breathtaking 360-degree view of the valleys, hills, lakes, and mountains.
• At village teahouses along the trail, you can savour simple yet delectable regional fare like curd, fresh vegetables, boiled eggs, and Nepali tea.
• A peaceful and picturesque walk is provided by the descent towards Begnas Lake, which winds through isolated hamlets and pine forests.

A standard Australian Camp Pokhara Hike package may include:

• Breakfast & Lunch
• Transportation
• Professional Guide

Things to do In Begnas Lake

Lake Begnas not only offers stunning beauty but is also a place full of multiple activities. You can enjoy:

1. Boating & Kayaking

You can rent a wooden boat from the shore of the Begnas Lake. The peaceful setting of Begnas Lake offers the perfect backdrop for the Annapurna and Manaslu peaks.

2. Going Fishing with Locals

Take up fishing; freshwater fish like carp and trout are common in Begnas. Take part in a leisurely and genuine lakeside activity with local fishermen.

3. Wildlife & Bird Watching

Bring binoculars because the lake's edge is home to migratory birds, eagles, herons, and kingfishers. It's also not unusual to see deer, langurs, or other small wildlife near the forest of Begnas Tal.

4. Meditation, yoga, and relaxation

The serene beaches of Lake Begnas are perfect for yoga and meditation. Take in the peace as you watch the tranquilize water.

Why Kalikasthan Thulakot Day Hike With Us?

With decades of experience, Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd. is a well-known brand in Himalayan travel. We take pride in offering exceptional trekking and tour experiences that are set apart by meticulous planning, safety-focused operations, and culturally enriching interactions. Our staff consists of dedicated support staff and highly skilled, certified tour guides who are all passionate about presenting Nepal's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Cost Breakdown for Thulakot Hike from Pokhara

• Transportation (Pokhara-Kalikasthan, Begnas Lake-Pokhara): Includes local bus, private taxi, or jeep fares, depending on your preference for comfort and speed
• Meals and refreshments: Breakfast or tea, lunch, and snacks or drinks along the way
• Optional guide: Hiring a guide enriches the experience with local insights and ensures smooth navigation
• Miscellaneous expenses: Includes bottled water or local crafts during village visits

Final Thoughts

With its expansive mountain vistas, historical insights, and serene finish at Begnas Lake, the Kalikasthan to Thulakot Hill day hike is a picturesque and culturally rich getaway from Pokhara. For tourists looking for a quick but worthwhile Himalayan adventure, it's ideal. This hidden gem is a must-see for any traveler to Pokhara because of its simple trail, stunning natural surroundings, and distinctive local charm.