Pokhara Day Hike: Visit Japanese Hill

The day hike from Matgauda Powerhouse to Japanese Danda (Kristi) and back to Pokhara, is a popular and scenic trek near Pokhara, Nepal. The hike offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range, serene forests, and glimpses of rural life. Starting Point: Matgauda Powerhouse Location: Matgauda is located on the outskirts of Pokhara, about a 15-20 minute drive from the Lakeside area of Pokhara.

How to get there: Our cat will pick up from Pokhara and drop to Matgauda. What to Expect: The area around the Matgauda Powerhouse is quite peaceful, with a dam and a small power station. The trail begins here, winding through forests and village paths.

Trail to Japanese Danda (Kristi) Distance: Roughly 6-8 km one-way. Duration: Around 2 to 2.5 hours to reach Japanese Danda from Matgauda, depending on your pace. Difficulty: Moderate, with gradual uphill climbs and some steep sections.

The trail passes through lush forests and farmland, offering good opportunities for bird watching and nature appreciation. Views along the way: As you hike, you will have glimpses of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountains. The local villages and terraced fields make the walk even more picturesque.

Trail Description: The path will be a mix of paved roads, dirt tracks, and small village lanes. You will pass through small villages and fields of crops, and the forested section is quite refreshing. As you climb towards Japanese Danda, the scenery opens up with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains.

Japanese Danda (Kristi) Location: Japanese Danda (also known as Kristi) is a small hilltop where the Japanese Peace Pagoda can be viewed. It’s a quiet and serene location perfect for a rest stop and to take in the panoramic views of Pokhara and the surrounding mountains. Activities: Once you reach Japanese Danda, you can take in the views of Pokhara Valley, the Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

There may also be a small tea shop or rest areas where you can relax. Duration at the top: Spend around 30-45 minutes here to enjoy the views, take photos, and rest. Return to Pokhara Route: The return route is the same as the hike up, so you'll retrace your steps back to Matgauda Powerhouse or back from chhorepatan.

Duration: The descent will be faster, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your speed. End Point: Once back at Matgauda, transportation back to Pokhara (around 15-20 minutes)by car. Total Hiking Time Overall Duration: The total round-trip hike will take around 5-6 hours, including breaks and time spent at Japanese Danda.

Distance: Approximately 12-16 km round trip, depending on the exact route taken. Tips for the Hike Start Early: Since it's a day hike, start early (around 7:00 AM) to avoid the midday heat and to have enough time for breaks. Appropriate Footwear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, especially for the uphill sections.