NagePokhari is a perfect blend of natural beauty, spirituality, culture, and adventure, making it an offbeat trekking experience close to Kathmandu. Moreover, it is ideal for travelers seeking peace, scenic views, and a digital detox. As a result, this hidden gem in southern Gorkha is a must-visit.
Interestingly, Nepalese are widely recognized as Gurkhas, reflecting the historical and cultural significance of Gorkha. A popular saying goes: Nyaye Napaye Gorkha Janu, meaning “If you want justice, go to Gorkha.” Therefore, for travelers seeking a short, diverse trekking adventure that blends culture, religion, and nature, the Sirandanda NagePokhari Hike Trek is perfect.
Situated at 3,260 meters, NagePokhari, or “Snake Lake,” is a serene hilltop pond surrounded by mountains, terraced villages, and Himalayan views. Although once lesser-known, it is gaining recognition as an ideal escape from crowds, offering a peaceful environment perfect for digital detox and slow travel. Furthermore, trekking via Sirandanda is beginner-friendly, which makes it accessible for first-time trekkers.
Kathmandu to Rato Ghar, where you can choose tent or villa stay, while enjoying panoramic mountain views and local cuisine. Then, trek through terraced fields, forests, and villages to Sirandanda, and stay in tents at the base camp. Afterward, scenic drive/trek to Rato Ghar, taking in panoramic views, and again choosing tent or villa stay while enjoying local cuisine. Next, trek through villages, terraced fields, and forests to Sirandanda. Finally, trek to NagePokhari, where you can explore the lake and spiritual sites, before returning to Kathmandu.
Most trekkers typically spend their first night at Rato Ghar, a scenic hilltop with panoramic views of the Manaslu and Buddhahimal ranges.
Here, you can enjoy authentic local food and simple accommodations, ranging from tents to local houses. By spending a night, trekkers can rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the main trek, all while soaking in the serene environment.
The trek begins at Sirandanda, the main base before reaching NagePokhari. From there, the trail winds through forests, meadows, and terraced fields, while offering glimpses of local village life and spiritual landmarks along the way.
Then, the hike from Sirandanda to NagePokhari takes four to five hours, with moderate uphill sections. Along the route, the combination of fresh mountain air, panoramic views, and peaceful surroundings makes the trek rewarding.
Altitude: 3,260 meters
Views: Himalayan ranges including Manaslu and Buddhahimal, villages, forests, and terraced fields
Cultural & Spiritual Sites: Close to Gorkha Durbar; Buddha and Shiva statues near the lake
Flora: White and pink rhododendrons in bloom
Trekking Difficulty: Moderate; beginner-friendly
Best Time to Visit: Nag Panchami (Baishak/Jestha), Dashain (Ashoj/Kartik), or winter for snow
First Night: Rato Ghar (tent or local stay)
Base Camp: Sirandanda (rest, supplies, optional overnight)
Limited lodging near NagePokhari; provides basic tent stay or ghort room and food
Warm clothing is necessary due to cold and windy conditions
Carry salt or sanitizer to prevent leech bites during monsoon
Kathmandu to (Rato Ghar) Bhachchek
Start your adventure early from Kathmandu. First, take a direct bus or drive via Abukhaireni toward Gorkha. If driving, stop at 12 Kilo Bazaar, and then follow the road to Bhachchek in Ajirkot.
Here, gather any essentials, snacks, or water, because the trekking route ahead has no shops. Afterward, from Bhachchek, begin the uphill trek toward Rato Ghar, your first-night stop.
Tent Stay: Camp under open skies, while enjoying panoramic mountain views.
Villa/Local House: Simple, comfortable lodges or local houses with basic facilities, where you can relax and soak in the surroundings.
Additionally, enjoy breathtaking views of the Manaslu and Buddhahimal ranges and fresh local cuisine. During your stay, rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the main trek.
Sirandanda to NagePokhari
Start early and hike through lush forests and meadows toward NagePokhari, the serene “Snake Lake.” The trek from Sirandanda to NagePokhari takes about 8 hours on foot, passing through dense forest and scenic trails.
At NagePokhari:
First, participate in morning worship, while experiencing local spiritual and cultural traditions. Then, enjoy panoramic Himalayan views. Next, explore Buddha and Shiva statues near the lake.
After a day at the lake, spend the night at a tent overlooking the stars, and savor authentic local meals prepared by villagers.
Early Morning Visit to NagePokhari and Return
Start early in the morning from Sirandanda and hike through forests and meadows to reach NagePokhari, the serene “Snake Lake.”
– Participate in morning worship at NagePokhari, experiencing local spiritual and cultural traditions.
– Relax by the lake and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views.
– Explore spiritual landmarks such as Buddha and Shiva statues.
After the visit, trek back via Rato Ghar or Sirandanda, resting briefly if needed. Continue your journey returning to Kathmandu** by bus or private vehicle, completing the loop.
Rato Ghar to Kathmandu – Trip Conclusion
After enjoying the morning views and peaceful ambiance at Rato Ghar, have breakfast and start your descent toward Bhachchek From there, continue by bus or private vehicle back to Kathmandu
Where is NagePokhari located?
Ajirkot Rural Municipality, Gorkha District.
Distance from Gorkha:
Approximately 12–15 kilometers from Sirandanda, moderately uphill.
Accommodation nearby:
Limited; Ratoghar has basic rooms. Camping or staying in a goth (hut) is common.
Can be completed in a single day by experienced trekkers; beginners may need one overnight stop at Rato Ghar or Sirandanda.
NagePokhari is a perfect blend of natural beauty, spirituality, culture, and adventure, offering an offbeat trekking experience close to Kathmandu. Ideal for travelers seeking peace, scenic views, and a digital detox , this hidden gem in southern Gorkha is a must-visit.
