Pokhara is a fantastic base for exploring Nepal’s Himalayan beauty in just a short time. Its proximity to iconic mountains like Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, combined with accessible trails and cultural sites, makes it ideal for 2-day adventures. Whether you’re looking for a trekking escape through lush forests and charming villages or scenic drives to sacred temples, Pokhara offers plenty of options. We especially like the 2-Day Private Trekking Tour to Australian Camp & Dhampus, as it balances stunning mountain views with authentic Nepali village life—all within a manageable timeframe. This trip is perfect for travelers seeking breathtaking scenery without the long, strenuous treks.
If you prefer a mountain viewpoint experience, the Poon Hill Trek delivers sunrise vistas over the Annapurna range and scenic villages, making it a popular choice. For those with limited time but high interest in cultural highlights combined with mountain views, these tours provide a genuine taste of Nepal’s landscapes and traditions, all within two days.
Quick Overview
Our list covers trekking tours, jeep adventures, and short mountain hikes. Highlights include:
- The classic trek to Australian Camp & Dhampus, offering sweeping Himalayan panoramas (Tour #1)
- The short Poon Hill Trek, which combines scenic drives with early morning mountain views (Tour #2)
- The Jeep Tour to Mustang and Muktinath, ideal for those who want to see remote temples and stunning valleys without trekking (Tour #3)
- The Ghorepani & Poon Hill Trek, famous for its panoramic sunrise and vibrant villages (Tour #4)
- And less challenging options like the Panchase Hill Trek and Sikles Trek, designed for easy hikes with rewarding views (Tour #5, Tour #11).
1. 2-Day Private Trekking Tour to Australian Camp & Dhampus
At number 1 on our list, this trek combines easy walking with spectacular views. It begins with a 45-minute taxi ride from Pokhara to Kande, where your trek starts. You’ll walk through lush forests, rice terraces, and traditional villages, ending at Australian Camp for panoramic mountain vistas of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre Himal. The next morning, you’ll wake early for a sunrise over the Himalayas—a moment worth rising for. The trek then continues to Dhampus, a Gurung village famous for ridge-top views and cultural charm. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and comfortable lodges, with reviews highlighting how accessible and rewarding this trek feels.
This tour offers exceptional value at $99 per person, with a well-rounded experience that suits travelers who want a manageable trek with unforgettable mountain views. The balance of scenery, culture, and comfort makes it a top pick for first-time trekkers or those with limited time. Its short duration ensures you enjoy the highlights without exhausting yourself.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a scenic, cultural, and comfortable Himalayan experience in just two days.
2. 2 Days Short Poon Hill Trek
This tour is perfect for travelers who want the most famous mountain sunrise without the longer commitment. Starting with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the journey includes a scenic 3-hour drive and a 6-hour trek to Ghorepani, passing through rhododendron forests and Gurung villages. The highlight is waking early on Day 2 to hike up to Poon Hill for sunrise views over the Annapurna range. This vantage point is renowned for its breathtaking dawn vistas, where you see the mountains glow with golden light.
Reviews mention the excellent organization and helpful guides, with some travelers noting it’s a “very doable” trek for those with moderate fitness. The value here is high, especially considering the iconic sunrise experience packed into such a short trip. The 7-hour day is packed but manageable, and the views are unforgettable.
Bottom Line: A quick, scenic escape for sunrise lovers and those wanting a taste of Himalayan grandeur.
3. 2 Days Jomsom, Kagbeni, Mukitinath, Mustang Budget Tour by Jeep
For around $220, this luxury jeep tour offers a smooth ride through rugged Mustang territory. It begins early from Pokhara, passing through villages like Jomsom and Marpha, famed for apple orchards. The second day features a visit to Muktinath Temple, a revered spot for Hindus and Buddhists. Traveling by 4WD, you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, plus the chance to see the world’s deepest gorge at Kaligandaki.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see Mustang’s highlights without the physical challenge of trekking. It’s praised for comfort and scenic diversity, perfect if you’re short on time or have mobility constraints. Reviewers mention the reliable driver and beautiful landscapes, making it a stress-free way to experience remote Nepalese culture and natural beauty.
Bottom Line: A hassle-free, scenic, and culturally rich option for travelers who prefer comfort over trekking.
4. Pokhara: 2-Day Ullerai, Ghorepani & Poon Hill – Sunrise Trek
This tour focuses on short but memorable mountain views. It starts with a pickup from your hotel, then a drive to Ulleri, followed by a trek to Ghorepani. The next morning involves an early hike to Poon Hill to see the sunrise over the Himalayan range. The descent back to Pokhara ends the trip, with the drive time kept at about 2.5 hours.
Guests rave about the beautiful scenery, easy pace, and professional guides. It’s a great option for those who want a short yet scenic experience without extensive trekking. The inclusion of sunrise views from Poon Hill makes it a popular choice for travelers seeking a quick Himalayan fix.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with limited time but a desire for mountain vistas and local culture.
5. 2 Days Panchase Hill Trek from Pokhara
This trek is a gentle hike suitable for all ages, ideal for those who want easy, scenic walking. Starting from Naudanda, your trek takes you through forests and villages, offering spectacular views of Mt Annapurna. The overnight stay in a guesthouse keeps the experience authentic and comfortable. On the second day, an early morning hike to Panchase Hill offers fantastic sunrise views. The return via local transport makes this a convenient option for a half-decent outdoor experience without overexertion.
Reviewers emphasize the personalized attention and scenic diversity, making it a relaxing way to enjoy the Himalayas. The moderate challenge level and culture appeal to travelers seeking a low-pressure adventure.
Bottom Line: An easy yet rewarding trek for nature lovers and those with limited time.
6. Annapurna: 2 Days Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara
This classic trek covers the iconic Poon Hill sunrise, with a full day of walking through rhododendron forests to Ghorepani, then an early morning hike to Poon Hill for extraordinary mountain views. The drive to Tirkhedhunga sets the stage, with a focus on panoramic vistas and village life. The descent brings you back to Pokhara, completing the loop. The 2-day itinerary is designed for first-timers and quick travelers eager to see the Himalayas.
Guests comment on the amazing sunrise and easy pace, making it perfect for a short Himalayan getaway. The cost reflects the value of experiencing the most famous mountain viewpoint in Nepal.
Bottom Line: A must-do for anyone wanting a brief but authentic Himalayan experience.
7. Scenic Adventure: Group Joining 2-Day Poon Hill Trek Tour
This group tour offers a shared adventure with other travelers, starting from Pokhara and heading to Ghorepani. The highlight is the early morning Poon Hill sunrise, with a scenic trek through mountain forests. The trip ends with a drive back to Pokhara. It’s suited for adventurers who prefer a social experience but want to see the Himalayas from Poon Hill.
Reviewers mention the helpfulness of guides and the well-organized itinerary, making this a reliable option if you’re comfortable sharing a group experience. The price is competitive, especially considering the permit and transportation included.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers who enjoy group travel and want a straightforward Himalayan sunrise experience.
8. Annapurna: 2 Days 1 Night Poon Hill Trekking
This itinerary is designed for quick explorers. Starting with a drive to Ghorepani, the focus is on seeing the sunrise from Poon Hill. The overnight stay is in a cozy tea house, and the morning begins with a spectacular dawn over the mountains. The return trek is straightforward, and the drive back to Pokhara wraps up the experience. Reviewers call it an ideal short trek for busy schedules.
The main appeal is seeing the Himalayas in just two days, with the added benefit of comfortable accommodations and guided support.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with tight schedules who still want a Himalayan sunrise.
9. Pokhara: 2-Day Ghorepani and Poon Hill Private Trek
Offering private guided trekking, this trip emphasizes personalized service. Starting from Pokhara, you trek through rhododendron forests to Ghorepani, then rise early to Poon Hill for sunrise views. The small group ensures flexibility and attention to detail. Guests appreciate the cozy teahouses and culture along the route.
At $108 per person, it offers excellent value for a private experience, especially for those wanting a more intimate trek. Review quotes mention the “beautiful views” and “helpful guides”.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a personalized, scenic Himalayan experience.
10. 1 N 2 Days easy Dhampus, Australian camp trek from Pokhara
This easy trek is designed for those short on time or less physically able. It includes a visit to the traditional Gurung village of Dhampus and the Australian Camp with panoramic Himalayan views. The trek is simple, with beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Reviews highlight the excellent guide and comfortable lodges. Priced at $114, it offers a straightforward yet scenic experience for those seeking culture and nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace with fantastic mountain and village scenery.
11. 2 Days Sikles Trek from Pokhara
This trek takes you through less traveled paths in Sikles village, known for its Gurung culture and spectacular views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Starting from Tangting, it involves ascending through terraced fields and forests, with an overnight stay in a local homestay. The second day features a sunrise view before descending back. Reviewers love the authentic cultural experience and quiet, scenic landscapes.
It’s suited for travelers seeking a peaceful trek with culture. The moderate challenge level makes it accessible but still rewarding.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a cultural break with beautiful Himalayan scenery.
12. 2 Days Ghandruk Village Hiking from Pokhara
Ghandruk is one of the most charming Gurung villages, famous for its traditional houses and mountain views. Starting with a quick drive from Pokhara, your trek passes through forests and suspension bridges, culminating in a day exploring the village and its museum. On the second day, you descend back to Nayapul, then return to Pokhara. Reviewers highlight the beautiful landscape and cultural richness.
This tour suits those who want a combination of light trekking and cultural discovery, with easy terrain and stunning Himalayan scenery.
Bottom Line: Great for cultural travelers who want scenic, manageable hikes.
13. 2 Days Very Short Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara
This ultra-short version of the Poon Hill trek is perfect for busy travelers. Starting with a drive to Tikhedhunga, then a short hike to Ghorepani, the key highlight is the early morning Poon Hill sunrise. The descent is quick, and the drive back to Pokhara takes about 3 hours. The reviews praise its efficiency and spectacular views, making this a compact but rewarding mountain experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a quick dose of Himalayan scenery without long hikes.
14. From Pokhara: 2-Day Trek to Australian Camp & Dhampus
This flexible trek offers either 1 or 2 days of scenic walking. It highlights spectacular mountain views of Mount Machhapuchhre and Annapurna, with stays in cozy lodges. The trail includes visits to Gurung villages and a chance to enjoy sunrise and sunset over the mountains. Reviewers mention the easy walking and beautiful scenery, making it suitable for casual hikers.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a flexible, scenic trek with cultural highlights.
15. Jomsom Muktinath Tour by 4WD SUV 2 Days
This luxury SUV tour covers sacred sites and dramatic landscapes in Mustang, including Tatopani Hot Spring and Muktinath Temple. The second day features a short drive to Muktinath, a Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site. It’s praised for comfortable transportation and scenic diversity, including views of the Kaligandaki Gorge. The tour is suited for travelers who prefer sightseeing without trekking.
Reviewers appreciate the smooth ride and authentic cultural experience. It’s a good pick for those short on time but seeking a comprehensive Mustang adventure.
How to Choose Your 2-Day Tour in Pokhara
Picking the right tour depends on your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to spend walking. If mountain views and cultural villages top your list, the Australian Camp & Dhampus trek (Tour #1) or the Poon Hill trek (Tour #2) are fantastic options. For those seeking comfort and convenience, the Jeep tours to Mustang (Tour #3) or Mustang (Tour #15) provide scenic highlights with minimal walking.
Consider your budget: from budget-friendly options like the Dhampus trek ($99) to more comfortable private tours. Also, think about your physical condition—easy walks like Panchase Hill or Ghandruk suit most travelers, while longer treks like Poon Hill or Annapurna require moderate fitness. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Final Thoughts
From scenic hikes to comfortable jeep rides, Pokhara offers a broad spectrum of 2-day adventures. For a quick, scenic mountain experience, the Poon Hill Trek and Australian Camp & Dhampus stand out as favorites. If culture or accessibility is a priority, consider the Mustang jeep tour or Ghandruk village hike. Regardless of your choice, booking early and preparing for some early mornings will ensure you make the most of your Himalayan mini-break.