Royal Trek — 4 Days

The Royal Trek is one of Nepal's most relaxed and rewarding short walks — a gentle four-day ramble through the terraced Gurung villages of the Annapurna foothills, just east of Pokhara. It earned its name in 1981 when Britain's Prince Charles trekked this very trail with a small entourage, and it has remained a favourite for travellers who want authentic Himalayan culture and views without the long days and high passes of the classic routes.

With a maximum altitude of only around 1,730 metres at Syaklung, there is no risk of altitude sickness, making this an ideal choice for beginners, families with children, older travellers, and anyone short on time. You walk through rhododendron and pine forest, past rice and millet terraces, and into hillside villages where daily life carries on much as it has for generations — all framed by superb panoramas of Annapurna, the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal.

A gentle introduction to the Himalaya

Days are short and unhurried, typically four to six hours of easy walking on well-graded village trails. Nights are spent in simple teahouses and homestays where you share meals with local Gurung families. The trek finishes on the tranquil shore of Begnas Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal, where you can swim, boat, or simply rest before the short drive back to Pokhara.

Why trek the Royal Trail

Because it sits in the Annapurna foothills, the route passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, so an ACAP permit and TIMS card are required — both are arranged for you. This is a quieter alternative to the busy Ghorepani and Annapurna Base Camp trails: you are far more likely to share the path with grazing buffalo and schoolchildren than with other trekkers.