Sikles Village Tour: 2 Days Tour to a Traditional Gurung Village

Sikles Tour Overview 

Sikles Tour, a short tour from the Pokhara valley, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will take your breath away. This beautiful Gurung village, located in the heart of Annarpurna, offers a typical Gurung cultural exploration. 

Every moment spent here offers a window into a way of life that is firmly anchored in tradition and harmony with the natural world, from the Gurung people's kind smiles to their immaculately kept stone homes and terraced fields.

With majestic peaks like Annapurna II and Machhapuchhre as a backdrop, the drive to Sikles passes through a variety of landscapes, such as verdant rhododendron forests, rolling terrain, and pristine river valleys. 

Sikles Day Tour Highlights

• Short cultural escape from Pokhara (2-day trip)
• Traditional Gurung village with homestay experience
• Scenic drive with Himalayan views (Annapurna II, Machhapuchhre)
• Authentic culture: Rodhi system, eco-museum, local lifestyle
• Rich in flora and fauna (rhododendrons, Himalayan Monal, Red Panda)
• Ideal for nature, culture, and photography lovers

Sikles Village Tour Packing Essentials

While you're planning a Sikles Village Tour, your packing list can be simpler and more comfort-focused. Here are the essentials you should consider:

• Comfortable Clothing: Breathable, lightweight clothes for the day and a warm jacket for cooler evenings
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers suitable for uneven village paths
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure
• Personal Hygiene: Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toiletries, and tissue paper
• Medications: Any personal medications, motion sickness tablets for the road, and a basic first-aid kit
• Reusable Water Bottle: Help reduce plastic waste by bringing your bottle
• Camera/Smartphone: To capture the scenic views and local culture
• Power Bank: Electricity may be limited in remote areas, so a power bank is helpful
• Rain Protection: A light rain jacket or umbrella, especially if visiting during the monsoon season
• Snacks: Energy bars or light snacks for the road journey

Best Time to Visit Sikles Village

The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are the two best times of the year to visit Sikles Village. The Lamjung and Annapurna ranges are best viewed during these months, when the skies are usually blue and the weather is clear and pleasant. It is perfect for trekking and cultural exploration because of the consistently mild weather.

Spring (March to May): 

During the Spring season, blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery enhance the beauty of the trail and the village. It’s also a great time to experience local farming life as villagers prepare their fields.

Autumn (September to November): 

Another ideal time is autumn when the air is crisp, and the visibility is excellent. Autumn is also a popular season for festivals such as Dashain and Tihar, providing a chance to witness and partake in traditional celebrations.

Winter (December to February): 

Although cold but winter offers clear skies and less crowded paths. With proper warming tools, it can be a peaceful time to visit, but expect chilly mornings and nights.

Monsoon (June to August): 

For these months, it's mostly rainy, so the roads are slippery and there’s always a risk of flooding. So, it’s highly recommended to travel to Sikles during the monsoon. However, if you are looking for adventure and looking for risk, it might be the tour you are looking for.

Cultural Significance of Sikles Village

Sikles Village is one of the significant places in Nepal's cultural and historical landscape. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,981 meters, this village is one of the oldest and largest settlements of the Gurung ethnic community. 

Despite the modern influences, Sikles has successfully retained its authentic charm and traditional way of life. The village is well-known for its colourful communal practices, traditional wooden homes, and unique stone-paved alleys. Visitors can get a unique look at the vibrant culture of Nepal's highlands by participating in local traditions like the Rodhi system, an age-old method of community gathering for music and dance.

In terms of culture, the village celebrates several holidays all year long, such as Losar (Gurung New Year). In addition, the Gurung Museum in Sikles houses historical artefacts, traditional clothing, and tools that describe the way of life of the ancestors.  

When, in this beautiful village, you can get exposure to some of the traditional Nepali equipment such as Gundri, Chulesi, Jato, Kutto, Kodalo, Dhkki, etc., which are getting rare in various parts of Nepal.

By visiting Sikles, travellers not only witness scenic beauty but also step into a cultural stronghold where ancient traditions are still alive and respected.

Flora and Fauna in Sikles 

Sikles, a Gurung village situated in the Annapurna Conservation Area, is not only a place to explore the cultural beauty of Nepal, but also a home to various species.  One of the major viewpoints for the Annapurna Region is full of surprises:

Flora:

Rhododendron Forests

Oak and Pine Trees

Bamboo Groves and Ferns

Wildflowers and Medicinal Plants

Fauna:

Birdlife: Himalayan Monal (Danphe) – Nepal’s national bird, Snow Pigeon, Blood Pheasant, Long-tailed Minivet, Laughing Thrush, Himalayan Griffon

Mammals: Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, Goral, Red Panda, Langurs, and Macaques

Reptiles & Insects: Butterflies, Lizards and Small Snakes:
 

Includes

• Pick-up and drop-off by private car
• Experienced guide
• All government taxes
• All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
• All Entrance fees/permits
• Transportation for sightseeing

Excludes

• Alcoholic and bottled beverages (beer, cola, mineral water)
• Donations and Tips
• Personal Expenses
• All that are not in the included list

Guidelines for the Sikles Hike

The following are some guidelines that you need to follow during the Sikles Village Tour:

• Respect the culture, don’t touch anything without permission.
• Dress modestly in the village area.
• Take your trash with you and dispose in the proper place.
• Don’t touch or plunge anything unknown.
• Stay hydrated, drink enough water.
• Use a hat, a cap, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Always follow your guide.
• Eat healthy.
• Don’t make any noise to disturb locals and the wildlife.

Sikles Trek Overview

Sikels is famous not only for its typical Gurung village, but is also a popular trekking destination. If you are looking for an option of trekking, then here is a brief Sikles Trek Itinerary overview:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 

Day 3: Pokhara to Tangting

Day 4: Tangting to Karpu

Day 5: Karpu to Sikles

Day 6: Sikles to Pokhara

Day 7: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Day 8: Departure from Kathmandu

You can enjoy the Sikles trek following the itinerary above.

Why Sikles with Us?

Choosing the right travel partner can make or break your journey.  Our specialty at Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd. is creating unique travel experiences that blend cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and individualised attention. Here are some reasons to join us in exploring Sikles:

• Expertly Curated Trekking Itineraries
• Local Guides with Deep Knowledge
• Authentic Cultural Tour Encounters
• Safety and Comfort First
• Responsible and Sustainable Tourism
• Transparent Communication and Support
• Competitive Pricing with No Hidden Costs

Cost Breakdown for Sikles Tour

Budget: Since everyone has different needs, and each need has a different cost, there is no set budget. The total budget of your itinerary depends on your luxury preferences in accommodations, dining, and other travel experiences.

Transportation: Depending on the size of your group and the mode of transportation you select, the cost will change.

Meals and Accommodations: The price of your meals and lodging will vary depending on the area and your individual preferences. While traveling, you can consume traditional foods like dal bhat tarkali (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables),  Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, pasta, local bread, etc. You are sleeping in a guesthouse, lodge, or homestay at the lodge.

Guide: The cost of the guide will depend on the experience level.

Final Thoughts

The Sikles Village Tour combines natural beauty, cultural diversity, and real village life. This Gurung village, nestled in the Annapurna region, offers sweeping views of the mountains, lively customs, and a tranquil rural way of life that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Every moment in Sikles is significant, from discovering stone-paved alleys to savouring regional cuisine and the warmth of the mountains. Because of its rich flora, varied fauna, and deep cultural roots, Sikles genuinely connects you with nature and heritage.

FAQs

1. How far is Sikles from Pokhara by road?

Pokhara to Sikles distance is about 37 km.

2. What is Sikles famous for?

Sikles is a Gurung village located in the heart of the Annapurna Mountains, famous for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, typical Gurung culture, and friendly locals.

3. How far is Sikles from Kathmandu?

The distance between Sikles and Kathmandu is about 186 km.

4. What is the maximum altitude of the Sikles village?

The maximum altitude of the Sikles village is 1981 m above sea level.

5. What can I do in Sikles?

During your Sikles visit, you can explore the village and learn typical Gurung culture, interact with locals, practice yoga or meditate, or enjoy majestic views of the Himalayas. 

6. Is there any tour near Pokhara to complete in 2 days?

Yes, the tour to Sikles in 2 days is doable. 

7. Do I need a permit to visit Sikles?

Yes, you will require a permit of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

8. What kind of accommodation is available on the Sikles Tour?

Sikles offers your variety of accommodation options from hotels, lodges to guesthouses, and homestays.

9. Is the Sikles Tour affected by altitude sickness?

No, being below 2500 m altitude, there is no risk of altitude sickness.

10. Can I camp during the Sikles Tour?

Yes, you can camp during the Sikles tour, but you need to carry all the gear as the homestay or lodges do not provide such facilities.

11.  What language do locals speak in Sikles and nearby villages?

Locals normally speak Nepali and Gurung in Sikles. However, many also understand basic English.