The Royal Family Trek, also known as the Royal Trek, is one of Nepal’s most charming short treks, located north of the Annapurna region near Pokhara. This trek gained its name from the 1980s when Prince Charles and his entourage of 90 people traveled along this route. Unlike the more crowded trekking trails in the Annapurna region, the Royal Trek offers a quieter, more intimate trekking experience. It winds through lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and picturesque villages such as Bijayapur, Kalikasthan, and Shaklung, providing a unique glimpse into the local Gurung, Magar, and other ethnic communities.
Trekking along this route allows you to witness the stunning Annapurna Himalayan range, rice terraces, and traditional hillside farms. The trek is ideal for beginners, families, and those who prefer a short and comfortable trekking experience without compromising the beauty of the Himalayan scenery. The journey concludes at the tranquil Begnas Lake, about 30 kilometers from Pokhara, offering serene landscapes that are perfect for relaxation and photography.
The Royal Trek can be enjoyed almost year-round, but the best trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear, allowing unobstructed views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Spring is especially beautiful, as the rhododendrons bloom along the trail, adding vibrant reds and pinks to the green hillsides.
Autumn provides stable weather with crisp air and ideal temperatures for trekking, making it perfect for photography and outdoor activities. While winter (December to February) is colder and less crowded, the trail is still accessible. Monsoon season (June to August) is less recommended due to slippery paths and possible landslides, but some adventurers enjoy the lush green landscapes that this season brings.
Key points for seasons:
The Royal Family Trek is considered an easy to moderate trek, making it suitable for beginners, families, and trekkers with limited time. The trek involves short daily walking distances (3–6 hours) with gradual ascents and descents, making altitude sickness less of a concern compared to higher Himalayan treks. The highest point of the trek, Shaklung, is 1,730 meters, which is relatively low for Himalayan trekking.
Transportation for the trek is flexible. You can start from either Kathmandu or Pokhara, with daily drives connecting the cities and the trailheads. Roads are mostly paved or well-maintained, and private vehicles, tourist buses, or taxis can be arranged through Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition for comfort and convenience.
Highlights of difficulty and transport:
Along the Royal Trek, trekkers will find a range of food and lodging options in traditional tea houses and local lodges. Meals often include Nepali staples such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and seasonal vegetables. Tea houses along the trail are simple but comfortable, offering basic amenities like clean rooms, bedding, and bathrooms.
In Pokhara and Kathmandu, Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition can arrange hotels ranging from budget to luxury, ensuring that trekkers have a comfortable start and finish to their journey. Some accommodations along the trail may have limited electricity and Wi-Fi, but this enhances the authentic trekking experience and allows you to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Food and accommodation highlights:
Trekking in the Royal Trek region requires certain permits, which Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition can arrange for you. The main permits include:
These permits help support local conservation efforts and ensure safe trekking practices. They are typically issued within a few hours in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and having them arranged in advance avoids unnecessary delays during your journey.
Key points:
The Royal Family Trek is perfect for trekkers who want a short, culturally rich, and scenic Himalayan adventure. Unlike the more crowded Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani Poon Hill treks, this route offers a peaceful and immersive experience with opportunities to witness traditional lifestyles, interact with local communities, and capture incredible photographic memories.
Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition ensures a smooth, comfortable, and safe trekking experience with professional guides, well-planned accommodations, and flexible itineraries tailored to your preferences. This trek is especially ideal for beginners, families, photographers, and anyone wanting a taste of the Himalayas without the extreme altitude or strenuous effort.
Reasons to choose the Royal Trek:
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our friendly representative from Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the city. After settling in and refreshing yourself, you can take a leisurely walk around the vibrant streets nearby to soak in the bustling atmosphere of the city. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner featuring local flavors, accompanied by an orientation session where our team will brief you about the trek ahead and answer any questions you may have.
After an early breakfast in Kathmandu, we will begin our scenic drive to Pokhara via the Prithvi Highway, which typically takes 6–7 hours. The journey offers breathtaking views of rivers, terraced fields, and occasional glimpses of the Himalayan peaks. We will stop for lunch along the way at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to experience Nepalese hospitality. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and have time to freshen up. Later, we will explore the serene Phewa Lake, the bustling Lakeside area, and enjoy the sunset with the Annapurna range in the backdrop.
Following breakfast, we will drive towards the charming Bijayapur Village, the starting point of the Royal Family Trek. From here, the trek begins through peaceful trails lined with forests and terraced fields, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Along the way, you will pass through small settlements where local villagers warmly greet trekkers. Depending on the pace and timing, we can camp either just before or after reaching Kalikasthan, allowing you to rest and soak in the fresh mountain air while preparing for the journey ahead.
After breakfast, the trek follows a forested ridge top, passing through Thulokot and Mathi Thana, where a few tea shops provide a perfect rest stop. The trail then climbs gently, reaching Naudanda, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Continuing along the ridge, we will pass a school in Lipini Village before ascending a short but steep climb through lush forests. Eventually, we reach the traditional Gurung village of Shaklung at 1,730 meters, where we will stay overnight in a cozy lodge, enjoying the hospitality of local villagers and serene mountain surroundings.
Today's trek is a combination of scenic descents and moderate climbs, offering spectacular vistas of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and Himalchuli. From Shaklung, the trail descends steeply to a large chautara (resting place) surrounded by tea shops and a police checkpoint. The route then junctions, allowing glimpses of both Begnas Tal and the Marsyangdi Khola. As we climb towards Chisopani, the trail winds along the ridge, leading to a small temple on Chisopani Danda (ridge top), where panoramic mountain views provide an ideal backdrop for rest and photographs. Overnight will be in Chisopani village, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.
From Chisopani Danda, we begin a descent along the ridge into a small valley and cross a stream that feeds Rupa Tal. The trail continues through verdant rice fields and eventually ascends to the ridge separating Begnas Tal and Rupa Tal. Walking along this lively path, you will encounter local farmers and villagers going about their daily routines. Upon reaching Begnas Bazaar, a bustling market area, we will take a short taxi or bus ride back to Pokhara. After checking into the hotel, enjoy a relaxing evening exploring Pokhara or simply resting after the trek.
After breakfast in Pokhara, we will begin the return journey to Kathmandu via a comfortable tourist bus. The drive retraces the scenic Prithvi Highway, offering final glimpses of the lush hills and rivers of Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will check into your hotel and have free time to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a relaxing evening. Dinner tonight can be spent at a traditional restaurant, sharing experiences of the trek with your companions and celebrating the adventure completed with memories that will last a lifetime.
On the final day of your journey, after breakfast at the hotel, our team from Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. This marks the conclusion of the Royal Family Trek, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. Whether it is the panoramic mountain views, the serene villages, or the vibrant cities, the experiences of this trek will remain cherished long after you leave Nepal.
Your Start Date is the day you land in Nepal, and your End Date is when you fly home.
If the set Royal Family Trek group dates don’t suit your schedule, we can offer alternative dates upon request.
The Royal Family Trek is considered a moderate-level trek, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and prior trekking experience. The trail involves gradual ascents and descents through hilly terrain, terraced fields, and forested areas. While there are no extremely steep climbs, the trek requires endurance for daily walks of 4–6 hours. Our experienced guides from Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition will help pace the group and provide assistance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
No advanced trekking experience is required, but a reasonable level of fitness is important. Trekkers should be comfortable with daily walks of 4–6 hours on hilly and uneven terrain. Our guides from Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition will provide guidance, support, and pacing suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. Proper preparation, such as cardiovascular exercise, leg strengthening, and endurance training before the trek, will enhance your overall experience and make the journey more enjoyable.
Mobile network coverage along the Royal Family Trek is limited and may be available only at larger villages or lodges. Internet access is minimal and often slow, allowing trekkers to disconnect from daily distractions and immerse themselves in nature. Kathmandu and Pokhara provide reliable mobile and Wi-Fi connectivity, so travelers can update family and friends before and after the trek. Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition ensures that all trekkers are informed about connectivity limitations to plan communication accordingly.
Yes, Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition offers flexibility to adjust the Royal Family Trek according to individual preferences, fitness levels, and available time. Extensions, additional rest days, or alternative routes can be arranged in consultation with our trekking team. While the standard itinerary covers major highlights, customizing allows you to explore villages, interact with locals, or include sightseeing in Pokhara and Kathmandu. We aim to make the trek a personalized experience while maintaining safety, comfort, and cultural authenticity.
The ideal time for the Royal Family Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and visibility of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges is spectacular. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons along the trail, while autumn provides crisp air and golden fields. Winter is colder and can be challenging, while the monsoon season brings heavy rain and slippery trails, making trekking more difficult and less enjoyable.
During the Royal Family Trek, accommodation is primarily in local tea houses or lodges, offering basic but comfortable rooms with beds, blankets, and shared or private bathrooms where available. In Pokhara and Kathmandu, 3-star or similar hotels are provided, ensuring comfort before and after the trek. The tea houses allow trekkers to experience traditional Nepali hospitality and local village life. Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition ensures that all accommodations meet hygiene and safety standards while keeping the cultural experience authentic.
Meals during the Royal Family Trek include breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the tea houses or lodges. The menus typically feature traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), vegetable curries, noodles, and soups, as well as some Western options such as pasta and sandwiches. Snacks and beverages can be purchased separately. Our team ensures clean, nutritious, and sufficient meals to keep trekkers energized throughout the journey. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if informed in advance.
The Royal Family Trek passes through certain protected areas, so trekkers need specific permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and local trekking permits issued by Nepal’s government. Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition arranges all necessary permits before the trek, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Trekkers are required to carry a copy of their passport for permit processing, but our team handles all formalities, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences.
Safety is a top priority for Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition. The trail is generally safe for moderate-level trekkers, with well-marked paths and local communities along the way. Guides are trained in first aid and emergency response, and we maintain a medical kit for minor injuries or illnesses. Weather and trail conditions are monitored, and adjustments can be made if necessary. Trekkers are advised to follow the guide’s instructions, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Trekkers should pack light but essential items for the journey, including comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothing, waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, trekking poles, personal hygiene items, and a refillable water bottle. A small backpack is recommended for daily essentials, while a larger duffel bag can be carried by porters. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a basic first-aid kit are also useful. Nepal Planet Treks & Expedition provides detailed packing lists to ensure trekkers are well-prepared for varying weather conditions along the trail.
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