| Trip code | |
| Package name | The Royal Trek |
| Duration | 9 |
| Max. elevation | 1730 m |
| Level | |
| Transportation | All ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | 3*** Hotel in Kathmandu & Pokhara and Lodge during the trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 965 per person |
The Royal Trek, offered by Special Trek & Expedition, is one of the shortest and most scenic treks in the Annapurna region. Following a relatively gentle route along the foothills of Annapurna, this trek starts near the Pokhara valley and winds through charming villages, lush forests, and terraced fields. Its name comes from the historical journey taken by Prince Charles and his 90-person entourage in the early 1980s, making it a trek with a unique royal heritage. Unlike the more challenging treks in Nepal, The Royal Trek allows trekkers to enjoy the Annapurna landscapes in a short period, making it perfect for first-time trekkers or those with limited time.
The trek passes through diverse cultural and natural landscapes, from bustling towns like Pokhara to remote villages like Syaklung and Kalikasthan. Along the way, travelers experience a mix of traditional Gurung and Magar cultures, including traditional houses, local cuisine, and daily village life. The trail also provides spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, with less crowded paths compared to the main trekking routes. This makes The Royal Trek ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, cultural immersion, and panoramic mountain scenery in one compact itinerary.
The Royal Trek can be enjoyed year-round, but the best seasons are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). During these months, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the views of the Annapurna and Machapuchhre mountains are spectacular. Autumn offers crisp air, festive village life, and post-monsoon greenery, while spring dazzles with rhododendron blooms and fresh vegetation.
Winter (December–February) can also be attempted, but temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes, making trekking less comfortable. The monsoon season (June–August) is generally avoided due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and leech activity. Traveling in the best season ensures safe trekking, vibrant scenery, and an enjoyable experience of both nature and local culture.
Season highlights:
The Royal Trek is considered a moderate trek. While it involves daily walks of 4–6 hours on average, the trails are not technically difficult and mostly follow well-maintained dirt paths and forest trails. The highest altitude reached is around 1,730 meters at Syaklung, which avoids the risk of high-altitude sickness and makes the trek suitable for beginners, families, and senior trekkers.
Transportation is straightforward. The journey begins in Kathmandu, where trekkers can enjoy city sightseeing before driving to Pokhara (6–7 hours). From Pokhara, short drives take trekkers to the trailheads at Kalikasthan. Daily trekking is combined with short driving segments when needed, which minimizes fatigue and maximizes enjoyment of the surrounding landscapes. Upon completion, trekkers return to Pokhara and then drive back to Kathmandu for onward travel.
Quick facts:
Trek accommodation is a blend of teahouses and lodges in local villages, offering a comfortable, home-like experience. Most lodges provide basic amenities including beds, blankets, hot showers (where available), and meals. The Royal Trek focuses on cozy, family-run lodges that allow trekkers to experience Nepalese hospitality and village life firsthand.
Meals on the trek typically include a combination of local Nepalese cuisine, such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, momos (dumplings), and occasional western options. Drinking water is available at lodges, but carrying a personal water bottle with a filter or purification tablets is recommended. Eating in the villages allows trekkers to support local communities while enjoying fresh, home-cooked meals.
Food & accommodation summary:
Like other treks in the Annapurna region, trekkers need two main permits to undertake The Royal Trek:
Permits are relatively easy to obtain through Special Trek & Expedition before departure, or at official checkpoints in Kathmandu and Pokhara. They ensure safety, help conserve the environment, and provide access to emergency services along the route. Carrying the permits throughout the trek is mandatory, as rangers may check them at various points.
Permit essentials:
The Royal Trek is ideal for travelers looking for a short, scenic, and culturally rich trekking experience without the physical demands of high-altitude trails. It combines moderate trekking with stunning Annapurna and Dhaulagiri views, making it a perfect option for beginners, families, or those with limited time. Its historical significance and peaceful villages also provide a unique experience not found on busier routes like the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
By choosing Special Trek & Expedition, trekkers benefit from expert guidance, reliable transportation, permit arrangements, and personalized support throughout the journey. The company’s focus on safety, comfort, and authentic cultural experiences ensures that travelers get the most out of their trek. This makes The Royal Trek not just a hike, but a memorable journey through the heart of Nepal’s natural and cultural beauty.
Reasons to choose:
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport; Meet, Assist and Greet by Red Rose Representative at the Airport; Transfer to the Hotel; Evening: Free to Explore Thamel; O/N
Breakfast at the Hotel; Move for a Half Day Kathmandu City Sightseeing; Collection of Passport for TIMS permit; Arrive at Red Rose Office for the briefing of the Trek; Evening: Make preparation for the trek; O/N (B)
Early Breakfast; Transfer to the Tourist Bus Station; Board on the Bus; Drive to Pokhara; Arrival at Tourist Bus Station; Pick up from the Station and Drop to the Hotel; Hotel Check in; Evening: Preparation of ACAP Permit; Evening: Explore Lake Side Pokhara; O/N (B)
Breakfast at the Hotel; Drive to Bijayapur River; Start walking the paddy fields and cross the river; Ascend up to Kalikasthan; Evening: Explore the area; O/N (B L D)
Start walking through the villages; Followed by the walk along the ridge of the mountain-enjoy the spectacular views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal; Walk through various Villages and through rhododendron forests; O/N (B, L, D)
Walk through the Gurung village and get to know about their lifestyle; Move ahead through the rhododendron and Sal trees; Arrive at Chisapani-the best view point at which to see the Himalayan Panorama including Dhaulagiri to the west of Annapurna; O/N (B, L, D)
Walk half way down the hill to Rupatal and climb about 200 meters and arrive at Sundare Danda; Walk 15 minutes down to Begnas Lake; Do boating in Begnas Lake for an hour; Take a Car to Pokhara; Evening: Free; O/N (B L)
Early Breakfast; Transfer to Tourist Bus Station; Drive to Kathmandu; Pick up from the Tourist Bus Station and drop to the Hotel; Hotel Check In; Evening: Free to do shopping in Thamel; O/N (B)
Breakfast at the Hotel; Transfer to the International Airport; Board on a Plane; Farewell!