20 Best Treks in Nepal

Nepal is ideal for adventure, spiritual cleansing, and cultural encounters. You can choose from many options in Nepal- trekking, mountaineering, hiking, rafting, and jungle safari. If you wish to enroll in the ethnic and cultural celebrations, the diverse terrains of this country will offer you the best memories.

In recent years, Nepal has become a popular trekking destination worldwide. You can enjoy mild walks to breathtaking treks in the same country.

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DurationTreksWhy?
7 daysGhorepani Poon Hill TrekA best short trek from Pokhara
8 daysMardi HimalThe best alternative of Annapurna Base Camp
8 daysLangtang Valley TrekClosest 7 days trek from Kathmandu
9 daysEverest View TrekBest for those who want to see Everest
14 daysEverest Base Camp TrekSee the highest peak in the world
14 daysManaslu Circuit TrekLess crowded trek and a great alternative to Annapurna Circuit
14 daysUpper Mustang TrekBest trek to see Tibetan culture, Chorten, caves,
21 daysKanchenjunga Circuit TrekThe less crowded trail in the east of Nepal and the third highest peak in the world
21 daysManaslu and Tsum valley trekA side trip to the Manaslu circuit trek

1. Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek
Maximum Elevation:5600 meters, Kala Patthar
Trek Duration:14 days
Trek Category:Moderate
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Best Season:March-May and October-November
Trek Restrictions:No
Trek Permits:TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful trekked routes. Many tourists visit Nepal to walk in the Sagarmatha region to enjoy the enticing mountain views. The trek starts from Lukla- a flight from Kathmandu.

Alongside the typical Sherpa culture and antique monasteries. Different glaciers, hanging icicles and the glamorous landscapes en route add adventure to your treks.

This trip can also be done in a Helicopter. The Everest base camp Helicopter tour is perfect for those who don’t want to trek but still want to see Everest.

Highlights

  • Tengboche monastery
  • Namche Bazar- a gateway to Mount Everest
  • Khumbu Glacier
  • Kala Patthar- the highest point of the trek- a vantage point for the Everest view
  • Visit a school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in Khumjung village

Lowlights

  • No variations in trek routes. The routes and landscapes are almost similar in the overall trek.

2. Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek
Maximum Elevation:5416 meters, Thorong La Pass
Trek Duration:15 days
Trek Category:Moderate
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Best Season:March-May, and October- November
Trek Restrictions:No
Trek Permits:TIMS, ACAP

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a delightful trek in the foothills of the entire Annapurna range. The trek leads you from the lush pastures to the Alpine forests. To conclude in the barren desert-like terrains of Manang and Mustang. And the bonus is every corner of the route promises a majestic view of the Annapurna range. This trek offers a diverse trek route where you get a chance to accumulate as many memories as you like.

Highlights

  • Thorong La Pass
  • Kali Gandaki Gorge- deepest in the world
  • Muktinath temple, Kagbeni, Jomsom
  • Tilicho lake- lake situated at the highest altitude
  • Ethnic villages of Gurungs and Magars
  • Rupse Waterfall, a Natural hot spring in Tatopani

Lowlights

  • The trek route is easy to moderate and popular, so it may be crowded for those who want to walk in peace.
  • Ongoing construction of motor roads has made the trail dustier.

3. Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek
Maximum Elevation:2175 meters, Nagarkot
Trek Duration:3 days
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Hotels, Resorts, lodges
Best Season:All year round
Trek Restrictions:No
Trek Permits:SNP

Chisapani- Nagarkot hike is one of the popular treks around the valley. En route, you walk through the evergreen hardwood forests. Also, the humid surrounding keeps you energetic along the walk.

It starts from Sundarijal- a short drive to the north of Kathmandu city. This is highly preferred by those who wish to enjoy scenic and a bit longer walks from the valley.

Highlights

  • Exotic rivers and waterfalls en route
  • Diverse flora and fauna
  • Spectacular sunrise view

Lowlights

  • You may not get a trek-like experience because of the easy route.

4. Ghandruk Trek

Ghandruk Trek
Maximum Elevation:1,940 meters
Trek Duration:5 days
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Best Season:All year round
Trek Restrictions:No
Trek Permits:No

The Ghandruk village trek takes you to the typical village of hillside Gurungs. It is a popular and easy gateway to Annapurna Base Camp Trek. On walking, you explore local tourism-related activities. Also, the museum in the villages adds joy to your trek. En route, you walk past lush forests of Rhododendron and pines in an idyllic surroundings.

Highlights

  • An easy and short trek
  • Close mountain views
  • Insight into the lives of Ghandruk village
  • Encounter the unique Gurung culture

Lowlights

  • The place is more crowded because of the heavy tourists.

5. Dhampus Village Trek

Dhampus Village Trek
Maximum Elevation:1,700 meters
Trek Duration:5 days
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Best Season:All year round
Trek Restrictions:No
Trek Permits:No

Dhampus Village Trek is a popular short trek in scenic mountains’ foothills. The place is among the particular viewpoints in the Annapurna region. The scenic view of the Pokhara valley, Fewa Lake, and the World Peace Stupa are among the attractions of the place. On this trek, you enter a world of serene surroundings, exotic landscapes, and amazing countryside views.

Highlights

  • Spectacular sunrise/sunset views
  • Encounter with the denizens of the village
  • Involvement in unique Gurung cultural activities
  • Glorified mountain views

Lowlights

  • Nearness from Pokhara has made the place too crowded.

6. Rara Lake Trek

jumla-rara-lake-trekking
Maximum Elevation:3,710 meters
Trek Duration:10-11 days
Trek Category:Difficult
Accommodation Type:Camping
Best Season:March- December
Trek Restrictions:Yes
Trek Permits:RNPEP

Rara lake trek takes you to the remote villages of Nepal Jumla and Mugu districts. Also called the “Queen of Lakes,”- the lake provides you with amazing experiences and peace.

In this trek, you walk through the rustic terrains of the Trans-Himalayan mountains. En route, you cross the ancient village of Mincha- a village famous for Buddhist Stupas. This trek starts from Jumla- a flight from Nepalgunj.

Highlights

  • Travel into complete wilderness and solitude
  • Rara lake- one of the largest lakes of Nepal
  • Rara National Park- home for Musk deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Leopard, and Himalayan Ghoral.
  • Encounter with people of mixed ethnicities: Gurungs, Magars, Tibetan origins

Lowlights

  • You may find the place too remote and unfavorable for your health too.

7. Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley Trek
Maximum Elevation:4,984 meters, Tserko Ri
Trek Duration:8 days
Trek Category:Moderate
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Best Season:March-May, and October- November
Trek Restrictions:No
Trek Permits:No

Langtang Valley Trek is one of the popular treks not far from Kathmandu city. The trek starts from Syabrubesi- 8 hour drive from Kathmandu.

On this trek, you will visit glaciers and snow-capped in a short distance from Kathmandu. You walk further through pine forests, stony streams, boulders, grassy meadows, and wide pastures. Panoramic views of Mt. Langtang-Ri, Langtang Himal, Gajala Peak.

Highlights

  • Kyanjin Gompa and Langtang Gompa
  • Astonishing sunrise views from Tserko Ri
  • Langtang National Park
  • Gosaikunda, Vairab Kunda, Surya Kunda, Saraswati Kunda
  • Helambu village
  • Yak farms and Cheese factories
  • Extended pastures

Lowlights

  • In higher altitudes, you may not get food and water. We recommend carrying along the necessaries.

8. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek
Maximum Elevation:5,160 meters, Larkya Pass
Trek Duration:14 days
Best Season:March to May, September to December
Trek Category:Difficult
Accommodation Type:Tea house
Trek Permits:TIMS, MCAP, RAP
Trek Restrictions:Yes

The trek revolves around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in Nepal. In this trek, you witness epic sceneries crossing many suspension bridges.

Also, temporary bridges of wooden planks in higher altitudes. The trek can be extended to 21 days with a side trip to Tsum valley

Highlights

  • Larkya La Pass- the highest point of the trek
  • Novel trek route
  • Diverse and secluded topography
  • Tsum Valley and Mu Gompa
  • Beautiful traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced culture
  • The less crowded trek route

Lowlights

  • It is a restricted trek route. You must travel with a licensed trek guide.
  • On the remote trek, you may have difficulty with easy accommodation.

9. Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek
Maximum Elevation:3,810 meters, Dhakmar
Trek Duration:14 days
Best Season:March to December
Trek Category:Moderate to difficult
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Trek Permits:TACAP, RAP
Trek Restrictions:Yes

The Upper Mustang Trek offers a memorable experience in Nepal’s rugged Trans- Himalayan region. En route, you will have amazing views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the other Himalayas.

The trek starts from Jomsom to enter the treeless zone of the rainshadow area of Nepal. The trail follows the ancient salt caravan route. White-painted houses, extended barley fields, old Gompas, chortens, and prayer flags beautify the place.

Highlights

  • Lo Manthang- the capital of the kingdom of Lo
  • Insight into Tibetan Lama Buddhism
  • Oldest monasteries in the world.
  • Mysterious caves and geographical variations.
  • The Tibetan-influenced lifestyle of mountain people

Lowlights

  • You cannot go on an independent trek in this region.
  • You may have a problem with accommodation in November- the high time of the local’s migration to lower altitudes.
  • Challenging afternoon winds.

10. Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek
Maximum Elevation:5,250 meters, Kang La Pass
Trek Duration:25 days
Best Season:March to December
Trek Category:Moderate to difficult
Accommodation Type:Camping
Trek Permits:TACAP, RAP
Trek Restrictions:RAP

Upper Dolpo Trek is a high-altitude, culturally Tibetan region in the far-western mountains of Nepal. The Upper Dolpo trek is an adventurous peek into the hidden valleys in the rain shadow areas. If you visit the place in Spring, you will have a high chance to witness the Yarsagumba Hunt. The trek starts from Jhupal, 2285 meters, and passes through different giant peaks.

Highlights

  • Stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Tibetan Peaks
  • Encounter with Bon Buddhists and their typical culture
  • High passes- Kang La, Saldang La
  • Arid landscapes and gorges
  • Shey Gompa- 800 years old monastery
  • Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep
  • The nomadic lifestyle of Tibetan-influenced Buddhist people
  • Phoksundo National Park- the largest National Park in Nepal
  • Shey Phoksundo Lake- the deepest lake in Nepal

Lowlights

  • Expensive permits
  • You cannot travel alone. Must travel with a licensed trek guide

11. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Maximum Elevation:5,200 meters, Pang Pema
Trek Duration:21 days
Best Season:March-May, and October- December
Trek Category:Difficult
Accommodation Type:Camping
Trek Permits:TACAP, RAP
Trek Restrictions:Yes

The trek passes through the tropical lowlands and the lush forests of Rhododendron. Presents to you the picturesque view of the northern hill settlements of Eastern Nepal. You pass through the villages of Tibetan tribes- Rais, Limbus. The trek starts from Suketar- a 4 hours drive from Illam.

Highlights

  • Kanchanjunga Conservation Area
  • Ghunsa, Lonak, and Pang Pema Base Camp
  • Walking in the foothill of the world’s third highest peak(8586 meters).
  • Borders to Sikkim and Tibet
  • Diverse species of wildlife
  • Yalung glacier(5143 meters)
  • Kanchenjunga North/South Base Camp

Lowlights

  • The high mountain passes could be more challenging than you expected. And the cold! You need to be fully prepared with the appropriate backpacks.

12. Gokyo Valley Trek

Gokyo Valley Trek
Maximum Elevation:5357 meters, Gokyo Ri
Trek Duration:12 days
Best Season:March-May, and October- November
Trek Category:Difficult
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Trek Permits:Yes
Trek Restrictions:Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit

Gokyo valley is a valley of iced lakes and glaciers. The trail passes through the rhododendron forests and oaks with diverse flora and fauna. What is interesting is the waterfalls that are mostly frozen. The valley preserves different highest-altitude wetlands and freshwater lake systems. The village is a home for solitary Tibetan-Buddhists- Sherpas with antique monasteries and cultures.

You can go on this trek as a part of the EBC trek, or you can go for the solo trek in Gokyo valley.

Highlights

  • Hospitable Gokyo village
  • The 5 emerald-green lakes of the Gokyo region.
  • Gokyo Ri- the vantage point of the spectacular mountain region.
  • Huge ice ridge between Cho Oyu and Gyachung is located in the Khumbu region.
  • World’s biggest ice glacier- Ngozumpa glacier

Lowlights

  • High chances of altitude sickness.
  • Similar trial routes up and down.

13. Makalu Base Camp Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek
Maximum Elevation:5250 meters, Shersong ridge
Trek Duration:19 days
Best Season:March-May, and October- November
Trek Category:Difficult
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Trek Permits:No
Trek Restrictions:TIMS, Makalu Barun National Park

This trek takes you to the foothills of the fifth-highest mountain in the world(8481 meters). It is a less frequent trek route because of the remote topography. The trek starts from Tumlingtar, a short flight from the capital, passing through the vibrant forests of Rhododendron and the terraces farms of the hillside people. The habitat of Rai in lower elevations and Sherpas in the higher mountainous terrains.

Highlights

  • Makalu Barun National Park
  • Remote and unspoiled trekking destination
  • Granite cliffs, hanging glaciers, and waterfalls
  • The eastern face of Mount Everest- the Kangshung face
  • Rare wildlife of Nepal- Red Panda

Lowlights

  • It is a remote trek; you may not get proper accommodation as expected in all places. As the lodges in the region are not well equipped, you may face problems in winter.

14. Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek
Maximum Elevation:5416 meters
Trek Duration:18 days
Best Season:March-May, and October- November
Trek Category:Difficult
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Trek Permits:Yes
Trek Restrictions:RAP, ACAP

This is a rugged and wild trek in the north of Annapurna region. The Nar Phu Valley trek starts from Jagat following the popular Annapurna Circuit Trail and branches off from Koto in the off-the-beaten-path to the Nar Phu Valley. The valley preserves ancient villages and high-altitude grazing valleys. You encounter the medieval Tibetan culture during interaction with the locals of the village.

Highlights

  • Amazing rock formations, glaciers, narrow canyons
  • Unique Himalayan and Tibetan culture
  • Restricted Region
  • Varied cultures of the Trans-Himalayan Buddhist people
  • High plateau
  • High mountain Pass- Thorung La(5416 meters) and Kang La(5322 meters)
  • Ancient monasteries
  • Stunning mountain views- Annapurna panorama, Mt Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho peak.

Lowlights

  • Chances are high that you may not get easy accommodation in all places. You may have to go camping or homestay too.

15. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Maximum Elevation:3210 meters, Poonhill
Trek Duration:3 | 5 | 7 days (Multiple Options)
Best Season:All around the year
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Trek Permits:Yes
Trek Restrictions:TIMS, ACAP

The Ghorepani Poon hill trek is a classic Himalayan trek in the Annapurna region. The trek starts from Nayapul- a 45 minutes drive from Pokhara to take you to the typical villages of Gurung and Magar settlers.

En route, you cross Rhododendron blossoms, especially in Spring. From Poon Hill, you can view the Annapurna range in your face and an alluring sunrise view.

Highlights

  • Known as Photographer’s Paradise
  • Breathe-taking Annapurna Sunrise Views
  • Ancient Salt-Trade Route
  • Dense forests of Rhododendrons and Oaks
  • Diverse landscape
  • Charming village settlements of Tamangs and Gurungs

Lowlights

  • During peak seasons, you may not find proper accommodations. Also, the trails could be more crowded than you expected.
  • You have to climb many stairs.

16. Panchase Trek

Panchase-Trek
Maximum Elevation:2517 meters
Trek Duration:3-4 days
Best Season:Autumn and Spring
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Teahouse
Trek Permits:No
Trek Restrictions:No

Panchase is one of the hillocks in the Annapurna region that is religiously renowned. The summit of Panchase hill is the famous vantage point for the spectacular Annapurna massif view. The diversity and natural beauty of the place allure you.

The terraced rice fields, lush vegetations, and alpine meadows make the place heaven on earth. Religious sites like Siddha Baba, Panchase lake, Boudha Stupa, and Caves.

Highlights

  • 360-degree view of the Pokhara valley
  • Panoramic view of different peaks
  • Rhododendron forests
  • Bird-watching
  • Countryside experience
  • Subtropical to temperate flora and fauna

Lowlights

  • You may feel the trek too short than you expected.

17. Royal Trek

Maximum Elevation:1,730 meters
Trek Duration:7 days
Best Season:March-May, and September- December
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Tea houses and hotels
Trek Permits:No
Trek Restrictions:No

The Royal Trek is one of the shortest treks in the rustic foothills of Annapurna peak. This trek is appropriate for those who are restricted to high-altitude treks.

The trek begins from the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara. On commencing, you walk through different Gurung villages and their antique settlements. This trek gives you life experiences in unique cultural and traditional villages.

Highlights

  • Diverse cultural experiences
  • Mountain views: Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Langtang ranges
  • Eloquent hillside terraced farms
  • Less crowded

Lowlights

  • Similar cultural experiences in the overall trek.

18. Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek
Maximum Elevation:4,250 meters
Trek Duration:7 days
Best Season:March-May, and September- December
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Tea house and hotels
Trek Permits:YES
Trek Restrictions:ACAP, TIMS

It is a short and refreshing trek in the surroundings of the Annapurna Region. On this trek, you walk through amazing glacial villages and unseen landscapes.

During the Spring, you will walk through the Rhododendron blossoms. Also, if you like to spend time with the locals, they have cozy homes ready for your service.

Highlights

  • Mardi Himal Base Camp and High Camp
  • Excellent views of Himalayan Peaks: Mardi Himal, Fishtail, Annapurna, and Himchuli peaks.
  • Stunning hill and mountain landscapes
  • Off-the-beaten-path
  • Villages scattered over the hills

Lowlights

  • During peak seasons, the place is too crowded. You may have to pay extra for cozy accommodation.

19. Siklesh Trek

Siklesh Trek
Maximum Elevation:2,000 meters
Trek Duration:5 days
Best Season:March-May, and September- December
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Tea house
Trek Permits:No
Trek Restrictions:No

The Siklesh trek takes you into the pristine hillside settlements on the lap of giant peaks. On this trek, you walk through the lush rhododendron forests and serene landscapes.

While on your stay, you can join Rodhi Ghar- late-night singing and dancing. Or you can have a look at the local handicrafts and tourism activities. Also, you can explore the rich biodiversity of the region.

Highlights

  • Largest Gurung Village in Nepal
  • Insight into the long-preserved Gurung cultures
  • good views of South Annapurna and Lamjung Himal massif

Lowlights

  • In peak seasons, you may not get proper accommodation facilities.

20. Treks around Kathmandu Valley

Treks around Kathmandu Valley
Maximum Elevation:It depends on the hike
Trek Duration:Multiple days Option
Best Season:All around the year
Trek Category:Easy
Accommodation Type:Lodges, Resorts, Hotels, Homestay
Trek Permits:No
Trek Restrictions:No

Many amazing hillocks around the valley offer ideal and easy trekking experiences. It suits those who are time-bound and prone to high altitudes.

Some treks include- Chandragiri trek, Champa Devi hike, Nagarjun-Jamacho hike, and the like. These treks start from the Kathmandu valley and can be completed in a day. But you can extend it to longer days by adding sub-treks.

Highlights

  • Cultural tour of the valley
  • 360-degree view of Kathmandu Valley
  • Countryside settlements of the local villagers
  • Hardwood forests surrounding the valley
  • Moderate climate

Lowlights

  • Relatively easy and short. Maybe less adventurous for those seeking thrilling walks in a short time.

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Article by Pradeep Guragain

Pradeep is the co-founder of Magical Nepal. He was born and bred in Nepal and is a seasoned hiker and rider.

2 Comments

  • Florlaina Ngakosso

    August 3, 2023 at 7:46 am

    I’m speak french please

    Reply
  • Chin

    September 27, 2023 at 1:06 pm

    thanks for creating this post…a very helpful guide on how to drill down options.

    Reply

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