NagePokhari Sirandada Gorkha Hike: A Must-do Adventure in Gorkha
10 Dec 2024 Chandra Gurung
Nepalese are popularly known as the Gurkhas worldwide. That alone signifies what historical importance Gorkha has for every individual in Nepal. There is a popular saying in Nepali: ‘’Nyaye Napaye Gorkha Janu’’ which literally translates to ‘’If You Want Justice Go to Gorkha.’’ Now, if you’re worried about finding a nice place for a vacation or a trek, Gorkha is the answer.
NagePokhari (meaning snake lake), one of the best attractions of Gorkha is finally getting all the recognition it deserves. Unknown to many for years, this small pond on the top of a hill, surrounded by mountains is giving people reasons to travel to Gorkha and acknowledge its natural beauty.
Trekking to NagePokhari via Sirandada is relatively easy compared to treks like Manaslu, Everest, or even ABC for that matter. This trek can be done by everyone, even the first-timers. And if this intrigues you, keep on reading to find more about this amazing destination that could be listed on your bucket list.
NagePokhari location and geography
At an altitude of 3260 meters from sea level, somewhere on the hilltop of Gorkha’s Ajirkot the sacred NagePokhari is beaming with pride. It is not just a pond but proof of Nepalese history, religion, culture, and beauty.
The hike starts from Sirandada and it takes about 4-5 hours to reach the pond. The geography along the way is what makes the trek so special. With the massive mountain terrain, diverse landscapes of forests, meadows, and rocky terrains, and the height, travelling to NagePokhari can be met with a lot of excitement on the way.
Historical and cultural significance of Nagepokhari
NagePokhari is situated near the iconic Gorkha Durbar (Palace) and that shows how closely it is connected to the royal heritage of this region. It is said that this pond was once sacred water for the Gorkha royal family centuries ago, the family then played an important role in Nepal’s unification during the 18th century under the kingship of Prithvi Narayan Shah.
The pond was used during that time for many Hindu rituals and ceremonies. Locals say that the water from the pond was used for royal offerings and religious pujas conducted in the Gorkha Durbar and nearby temples.
Not just the royals but this pond is important to locals as well. Various festivals, rituals, and community gatherings are held near this pond. For instance, during the festival of Dashain, many people perform animal sacrifices and offerings to deities. The locals consider the water holy and use it during pujas.
Despite being relatively small, NagePokhari has maintained its cultural importance over the centuries, serving the royals, and locals, and shaping and maintaining Gorkha’s rich historical past.
How to get to NagePokhari via Sirandada?
If you’re travelling by bus, take one from Kathmandu’s Naya Buspark to Bhachcheck, Gorkha. If you’re taking your vehicle, that is a good option too as that will allow you enough time to pause and explore any nearby places along the way. The road condition is mostly good but some parts are bumpy.
After reaching Abukhaireni, it is time you head towards Gorkha stop on the 12-kilo Bajar and make your way to the left which will lead you to Barpak and then Bhachchek, Ajirkot. If you’re confused about the way, you can either ask the locals or use a map. From 12-kilo, the road is fully pitched so that is going to make your travel faster and easier.
Bachchek Bajar is where your trek officially starts. Get every essentials you need from there since you are unlikely to find any shops ahead as the path is fully walkthrough.
Upto Sirandada, there is a decent road access and your hike starts after that. For those who are unfamiliar with walking in the hills, expect a time of 5 to 6 hours, and for more experienced walkers, expect a max of 4 to 5 hours. The cold and windy weather means you should also carry enough warm clothing with you.
Where to stay at Nagepokhari?
While there are plenty of options to stay at Bachchek, you won’t find some good accommodation options at Nagepokhari. For that, you have to travel to its nearby towns and villages. Ghyachhok is a small town near Nagepokhari where you can get simple rooms and normal food.
As you move from Bhachchek to Sirandada, you may have to spend the night in a goth (shed) because there are no hotels. While the service won’t be fancy at all, the experience will feel adventurous. Imagine spending the night in a small animal hut with a fireplace nearby to keep you warm.
If the option doesn’t seem exciting, you can consider camping as that will make your trek more adventurous. Make sure that you have all the necessary items including proper camping gear. Also, the weather on top can be bad sometimes so check the weather conditions to avoid any stress.
Best time to visit NagePokhari
On Nag Panchami, a huge mela (fair) takes place near the pond every year. People from Gorkha and surrounding districts visit NagePokhari during this time. So, this can be considered a good time to visit here. Since this festival falls in the month of Baishak or Jestha according to the Hindu calendar, the weather is also mild, perfect for travelling. You can enjoy the festive season, meet new people, and experience their culture.
If you’re travelling in monsoon, there are high chances of getting attacked by leeches so always carry a sanitizer or salt which will ward them off. If you want to experience Nagepokhari in winter, that sounds good as you can see snowfall as well. The best time, however, is during the Dashain time (Asoj or Kartik) when the skies are clear and the views are amazing.
NagePokhari Sirandada itinerary
If you’re already planning a trek to Nagepokhari, we have prepared a short itinerary that will help you navigate your trek better.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Bhachchek
You will catch a bus early morning and drive through the city of Kathmandu to Abukhaireni which will take around 8-9 hours. From there, your ride starts to Bhachchek where you will spend the night.
There are plenty of teahouses and lodges where you can get decent room and food for the night. Also, get all the necessary food items or other essentials from the market there as you may have not access to these items in Sirandada.
Day 2: Hike from Bachchek to Sirandada
Early morning, after breakfast, you hike towards Sirandada. Despite being only 5-6 hours trek, it can be difficult because the route is straight upwards. Enjoying the views, you ascend the hills which offer a different kind of serenity. After a straight-up walk for hours, you will reach Sirandada, a hill will scattered residences.
People live in small huts and here you will have to spend the night in a goth (shed). If you are not willing to do that, you may carry a tent and a sleeping bag and that will work just fine. Make sure you manage your food items because, after a long and tiring walk, you do not want to sleep hungry.
Day 3: Sirandada to Nagepokhari
Today is the day to get to your destination, NagePokhari. This moderate hike will take you gradually upwards through and across beautiful forests and terraced fields. As you start gaining new heights, you will be entertained by the stunning views of the mountains.
The highlight of the day, Nagepokhari awaits you as you ascend. The views and cool breeze on the top will immediately engulf you, releasing all stress. The most beautiful thing is the crystal-clear waters on the lake reflecting the surrounding mountains, giving you the most scene.
Soak in the ambient mood leisurely with a walk or some deliciously simple picnic. After the visit, by now it is time to get back into the nearby village for the night and get back to Kathmandu tomorrow morning.
Conclusion
NagePokhari, a popular trekking destination not that far from Kathmandu, holds cultural, religious, and historical importance. What many did not know is that both Nagepokhari and Sirandada belong to the Lower Manaslu Eco Trek, giving trekkers stunning views of the Himalayas and a great cultural experience.
The trails, forests, and hills will stay with you throughout the trek and long after that. If you liked the idea of a trek to Nagepokhari and want to explore it, feel free to contact Manaslu Guide directly.
FAQs
1. What are the sites worth seeing around Nagepokhari?
Ans: There are lots of attractions near Nagepokhari the main being NagePokhari itself. Other than this precious lake, there is a Buddha and a Shiva statue that you can offer your prayers to. On every side, you will enjoy the giant snowy mountains, adding more to the beauty of the surroundings.
If you’re there during the rhododendron blooming season, then you can see clusters of white and red rhododendrons all around. The entire village looks covered in these beautiful flowers from far away.
2. How far is Nagepokhari from Gorkha?
Ans: From Gorkha’s Sirandada, the Nagepokhari trek is just 12-15 kilometers. But some straight uphill trails make the trek hard despite the short distance.
