Sirandanda NagePokhari Hike Trek: A Cultural, Spiritual, and Scenic Escape in Southern Gorkha
Posted on: Friday, November 28th, 2025.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.
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. For travelers seeking a short, diverse trekking adventure blending culture, religion, and nature, the Sirandanda NagePokhari Hike Trek is perfect.
Nestled at 3,260 meters, NagePokhari, or “Snake Lake, is a serene hilltop pond surrounded by mountains, terraced villages, and Himalayan views. Once lesser-known, it is gaining recognition as an ideal escape from crowds , offering a peaceful environment perfect for digital detox and slow travel. Trekking via Sirandanda is beginner-friendly, making it accessible for first-time trekkers.
Trip Highlights
Kathmandu to Rato Ghar, tent or villa stay, panoramic mountain views, local cuisine
Trek through terraced fields, forests, and villages to Sirandanda, tent stay at base camp
Scenic drive/trek to Rato Ghar, panoramic views, tent or villa stay, local cuisineTrek through villages, terraced fields, and forests to Sirandanda
Final trek to NagePokhari, explore lake and spiritual sites, return to Kathmandu
Rato Ghar – First Night Base Camp
Most trekkers 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. Spending a night allows trekkers to rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the main trek while soaking in the serene environment.
Trekking to NagePokhari via Sirandanda
The trek begins at Sirandanda, the main base before reaching NagePokhari. The trail winds through forests, meadows, and terraced fields, offering glimpses of local village life and spiritual landmarks along the way.
The hike from Sirandanda to NagePokhari takes four to five hours, with moderate uphill sections. The combination of fresh mountain air, panoramic views, and peaceful surroundings makes the trek rewarding.
Location and Highlights
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
Accommodation and Travel Tips
First Night: Rato Ghar (tent or local stay)
Base Camp: Sirandanda (rest, supplies, optional overnight)
Limited lodging near NagePokhari; Ghyachhok provides basic rooms and food
Warm clothing is necessary due to cold and windy conditions
Carry salt or sanitizer to prevent leech bites during monsoon
Suggested Itinerary
Kathmandu to (Rato Ghar) Bhachchek
Start your adventure early from Kathmandu Take a direct bus or drive via Abukhaireni toward Gorkha. Stop at 12 Kilo Bazaar if driving, then follow the road to Bhachchek in Ajirkot.
Gather any essentials, snacks, or water, as the trekking route ahead has no shops. From Bhachchek, begin the uphill trek toward Rato Ghar, your first-night stop.
Accommodation at Rato Ghar:
Tent Stay: Camp under open skies with panoramic mountain views
Villa/Local House: Simple, comfortable lodges or local houses with basic facilities
Enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu and Buddhahimal ranges and fresh local cuisine. 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:
Participate in morning worship, experiencing local spiritual and cultural traditions
Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views.
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
FAQs
Where is NagePokhari located?
Ajirkot Rural Municipality, Gorkha District.
Distance from Gorkha:
Approximately 12–15 kilometers from Sirandanda, moderately uphill.
Accommodation nearby:
Limited; Ghyachhok has basic rooms. Camping or staying in a goth (hut) is common.
Trek Duration:
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.
