Tourist arrivals have increased significantly in Sikles, a popular tourist village in Kaski district, with the beginning of the peak tourism season. More than 3,000 domestic and international visitors have reached the scenic Gurung village within just six days, reflecting growing interest in the destination as favorable weather conditions attract travelers to the region.
According to Devijang Gurung, Ward Chairperson of Madi Rural Municipality-1, a total of 3,146 tourists visited Sikles between November 1 and 6, corresponding to Kartik 15 to 20 in the Nepali calendar. The figures indicate an average daily arrival of approximately 524 tourists during the six-day period.
719 Tourists Arrived on a Single Day
The daily arrival figures show considerable variation, with the highest number of tourists recorded on Kartik 18, when 719 visitors reached Sikles in a single day. Meanwhile, the lowest number was recorded on Kartik 15, when 254 tourists visited the village. The steady flow of visitors has provided an encouraging start to the tourism season and indicates strong demand for destinations offering mountain scenery, cultural experiences and trekking opportunities.
Sikles Serves as a Gateway to Kori and Himnadi Lake
Sikles has become increasingly popular not only as a destination in itself but also as a starting point for trekking routes toward some of the region’s renowned natural attractions. According to Ward Chairperson Gurung, most visitors stay in Sikles before continuing their journey toward Kori and Himnadi Lake, also known as Taal Kapuche.
The combination of traditional village life, mountain landscapes and access to trekking destinations has helped establish Sikles as an important tourism destination in the Annapurna region. Visitors can experience the local Gurung culture while also exploring the surrounding hills, forests and high-altitude landscapes.
Strong Visitor Flow Brings Fresh Hope to Local Businesses
The sharp increase in tourist arrivals has brought renewed optimism among local hotel and homestay operators. The growing number of visitors is expected to generate increased business for accommodation providers, restaurants, transportation services, local guides and other tourism-related enterprises.
The recent visitor figures have particularly encouraged local entrepreneurs who depend heavily on tourism during the peak season. A sustained increase in tourist arrivals could further strengthen the local economy by creating additional income and employment opportunities for residents.
Sikles Located About 38 Kilometers From Pokhara
Sikles is located approximately 38 kilometers from Pokhara, the tourism capital of Gandaki Province. The village is situated in Madi Rural Municipality-1 of Kaski district and is predominantly inhabited by the Gurung community. The village has around 400 households, with Gurung culture and traditions forming a major part of its tourism appeal. Traditional architecture, community-based hospitality and the surrounding natural environment have contributed to Sikles’ growing reputation as a destination for travelers seeking cultural and nature-based tourism experiences.
With the peak tourism season now underway and tourist arrivals showing strong momentum, local stakeholders expect Sikles to attract even more visitors in the coming weeks. The recent six-day figures have offered an encouraging indication of the destination’s tourism potential and the economic opportunities that increased visitor numbers can bring to the local community.
