The short answer
Yes. Around Pokhara you can book half-day or full-day pony treks, and some operators offer multi-night rides, through rustic hill villages and farmland. These routes also suit gentle day hikes at places such as Kahun, Naudanda and Dhampus.
Village experiences include Tibetan settlements, Gurung homestays and local farms. Choose operators who treat animals well, with proper tack, rest and water, and ask the guide how long the horse works per day.
Key facts
- Duration
- Half day to multi-night
- Good for
- Families, slow travellers
- Season
- Oct to Apr is clearest
- Check
- Animal welfare
How it works
- Pick a routeShort or long.
- Meet the animalsCheck their condition.
- Ride or walkGentle pace.
- Stop in a villageTea or lunch.
What the rides and walks offer
Pony treks and village walks around Pokhara pass through terraced fields, small hamlets, forest and viewpoints, with views of the Annapurna range and Phewa Lake. They are slow and gentle, which suits families and people who like a relaxed pace.
Villages near Pokhara include Gurung and Tibetan communities, where you may meet farmers, see traditional houses and stop for tea. Early morning gives the clearest air and coolest temperatures.
Doing it responsibly
Choose operators who care for their animals: healthy ponies, proper saddles, rest and water. Do not ride if an animal looks thin or tired, and do not ask a pony to carry more than it should.
Wear sturdy shoes, a hat and sun cream, and carry water. Respect village life, ask before photographing people and leave no litter.
Insider tip
Choose an early start to avoid afternoon haze and heat.
Avoid this
Do not hire a pony if the animal looks thin or poorly cared for.
Related questions
Is it safe for kids?
Often yes with a handler leading the horse.
Do I need riding experience?
Not for easy village rides.
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