Thinking about making your way to the land of the Himalayas, Nepal, for a fascinating adventure, cultural venture, or remote off-beaten trailhead? Here are some of the handpicked top 10 best treks in Nepal for 2025 and 2026, along with a comprehensive guide that includes side trips, major highlights, price ranges, permits, seasonal variations, and trek difficulty. This blog is crafted with the guidance of pro expert teams, and some of my own personal experiences, ensuring that you can choose the one that matches your time, budget, and reference, catering to the preferences of solo, group, female, family with kids, or backpacker trekkers. So, let's take a deeper dive!
Trekking in Nepal: A Brief Introduction
Trekking is one of the booming trends worldwide, which has been included in the bucket list for every adventure seeker. Nepal is referred to as a country rich in multi-lingual, multi-cultural, where more than 6000 peaks reside, along with the world's eight-thousanders Himalayan peaks. It is a favourite destination among adventure seekers, for the best trekking, hiking, and jungle safari tour as well, which itself shows how Nepal has been preserving its biodiversity and ecosystem, just in a pristine form.
Nepal, being a haven for nature and ethnic cultures, captivates the heart of every explorer across the globe, from day hikes to easy short treks, to remote off-beaten trails, and climbing expeditions over 6000-meter peaks as a training ground, no matter which journey you undertake, the views of diverse landscapes, mountains, and cultural experiences with harm hospitality of locals stands out to be the major highlights.
With thousands of options out there on the internet, picking one trekking destination in Nepal that truly makes your budget and holiday time worth it is surely a hassle, especially when you have many mixed opinions. Well, choosing the best trek in Nepal for you depends on a variety of aspects, firstly, how much is your budget, how much time you have, how challenging the adventure is, how easy the transportation accessibility and trekking permits are, and what kind of amenities/services are available along the trailhead. These are the general considerations that you must set on the first hand, and pick the one that fits your preference.
If you are confused about choosing the best treks to do in Nepal that fit your every requirement, then you are in the right place. We've enlisted some of the top trekking routes in Nepal, with a detailed guide, so you can select one and start the preparations accordingly, without any doubt, and book the trip with full confidence.
How are the variations of Treks in Nepal categorized?
If you are looking forward to trekking in Nepal, then you must know the kind of treks that you are heading to, as it defines how to pack the gear and essentials, estimate the personal expenses, plan the budget, and also manage the travel documents accordingly, for permits and travel insurance.
Tea house Treks
The kind of accommodations that you will be provided with in many of the treks stand out to be the tea house/lodges, which are run by the locals themselves, famous for warm hospitality and comfort. The tea house treks in Nepal are widely popular for offering a basic yet ancient style of sitting experience, where you can learn about the culture of locals, with daily insight on how they sustain their life, fully depending on animal husbandry, agricultural farming, along with wood arts, dress, and jewellery craftings, thangka paintings, and so on, which many foreign tourist, look forward to discover.
However, with time, the tea houses have been modernized, with well-infrasturated amenities, with all kinds of services such as wifi, laundry services, charging, hot water/shower, and proper seating in the dining room, especially in the major areas like Langtang, Annapurna, and Everest, to serve the trekkers, as it face thousands of hikers every year.
Comparatively, tea house treks fall more into the luxurious side, but that doesn't ruin your overall experience, even if you seek authentic taste and insights, as along with the facilitated services, the locals still preserve their daily livelihood, cultures, norms, values, and hospitality just as in their ancestral days, and the real proof is the architectures, designed in every tea houses, ancient local food tastes, festivals celebrated and the traditions that they proceed to carry till date. Hence, if you are more into experiencing how Himalayan people sustain their life, without compromising your basic needs and comfort, then tea house treks are a perfect option for you.
Camping Treks
Even though the world has commercialized, there are still some areas that are hidden, covered by landscapes, with no sign of tea houses, in many spots, due to zero development, or you can say to preserve the untamed nature, that's how camping treks in Nepal are introduced. Campings are done because of personal preference or with no other options, as in regions such as Dolpo,Kanchenjunga, which are so remote that basic amenities, even lodges, become a luxury out there.
This kind of camping trekking in Nepal falls more on the expensive side, because it falls more under long-duration treks lasting from 17 to 22 days, where the 5-6 supporting crews are required along with a trekking guide, porter, cooks, logistic carrying helping hands depending on the group basis.
Life on camping treks isn't too hard to bear, as it has different tents for dining, cooking meals, and beddings, and a washroom as well, where standard meals and drinks will be cooked and served as per your preference and diets, with charging and wifi facilities as well. Even in the rapidly developing region, like Upper Mustang, you can opt for camping options, for a more authentic experience; however, the price does increase by 20% for camping options.
While the camping options are mostly suggested only for experienced thrill seekers, with the best guided expert teams, beginners can opt for this kind of trek in Nepal, to get an insight into the pristine beauty of nature, sitting and sleeping beside by tranquil Himalayas, and discover a unqiue perspective of the raw hiking expeditions.
Day Treks
Short day treks in Nepal, marked to last for 5 to 7 hours a day, which is perfect for those who are short on time or want to introduce themselves to the world of the Himalayas. This kind of day hike is usually done by beginners as well, to get used to the high elevation over 2500 meters, before opting for high altitude options, so that you get to know how your body works in thin air, an unusual mountain environment, and get some prior high elevation experiences as well. Some of the popular day hikes include Nagarkot Day Hike, Champadevi Day Hike, and near the proximity of Kathmandu valley, the capital city, which reaches the vantage point of approximately. 2500 to 3000 m, lasting for a day, with 7 to 8 hours round-trip.
Off-Beaten High Altitude Treks
The off-beaten treks in Nepal are a haven, where some of the iconic spots and beauty of the highlands are still preserved in it's untamed form, with the remote terrains, without any influence of the modern infrastructure. Basically, the off-beaten trailheads stand out as being less crowded, which falls under a restricted area, where special permits are required to get access in, with the rules of a minimum of 2 hikers per group, along with a registered experienced trekking guide, for safety. The kind of treks last long in duration and demand more distance coverage, lasting for 12 to 16 days, depending on the chosen trekking route and itinerary. Some of the popular areas are Manaslu and Mustang, and some of the iconic trekking routes within the Everest region as well, which include high mountain passes over 5000 meters, and fall under a strenuous, challenging Himalayan adventure.
Top 10 Best Treks in Nepal: Must-Do Adventures in 2025 and 2026
With several options out there, selecting one trekking destination in Nepal is surely a mentally daunting situation, as you must consider several aspects beforehand, like trip duration, difficulty, type of treks, and seasonal conditions, along with costings, which is surely not an easy task, and something that you cannot go wrong with. Choosing the right trekking route in Nepal, among hundreds of options, ensures that your trip becomes the kind of adventure that offers the rewarding views, cultural exploration, and wildlife excursions that cater to the preferences you wish for, making your time and cost one hundred percent worth it.
To let you choose the one wisely, we've enlisted some of the best trekking places in Nepal, to venture out, focusing on the years 2025 and 2026 as well. Here are some of the 10 best trekking places in Nepal, with major highlights, trip facts, along with seasonal guides, and suggestions for some side trips that you can add on in each trekking route.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out being one of the most remote and off-beaten best treks in Nepal, which is recently gaining mass attention, and is also considered the restricted trailhead, as it demands a special permit to get access to. Sharing the border with Tibet (China), it is located in the heart of the Gorkha district, and passes through some of the rich Tibetan villages, along with the roaring river of Budhi Gandaki. The deeper you get into the trek, the more Tibetan-influenced monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and red shrines will fascinate you, with the breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu (8364 m), Samdo Peak, Kang Guru, Himlung Himal, Annapurna I (8091 m), II, and many others.
The total distance coverage of the trip to the Manaslu circuit is approximately. 124 kms, where the journey leads you through some of the notable settlements like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samdo, Lho, and Sama gaun, with the diverse landscapes and cultures of Nubri, Gurung, and Tsum communities.
Highest Point of Manaslu Circuit Trail - Larkya La Pass (5106 m)
The major highlight of this trip includes encircling the world's eighth-highest peak - Mt. Manaslu, and crossing over the high mountain pass of Larke La (5106 meters). It is famous for tea house treks, great cultural explorations, and some of the iconic viewpoints that it attains during the side trip, during acclimatization day, such as Birendra Lake and Manaslu Base Camp, which lets your body adapt to the rising elevation, and also makes your rest day one hundred percent worth it.
To enhance your adventure even more, you can consider combining Manaslu with the Tsum Valley Trek, which gives you more insight into the Manaslu region and locals' lifestyles, exploring the other five iconic monasteries at the same time.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Moderately Challenging
Maximum Elevation: 5106 m
Ideal Seasons: Spring and Autumn
Permits: Restricted Area Permit (Special permit), MCAP, ACAP, and TIMs Card
Daily Hiking: 5 to 7 hours
Major Features: What to expect?
Experience the Tibetan cultures of diverse communities such as Nubri, gurung, Sherpas, along with several monasteries
Cross over the highest mountain pass of Larkya La
Attain the Manaslu Base Camp and the emerald-like Birendra Lake
Unmatched panorama of the world's 8th tallest peak - Mt. Manaslu, along with other Himalayan range
Side Trips: Add-on options
Tibetan Border (Rui La Pass): Hike from Samdo to the Tibetan Border crossing through Lamjung Pass, passing through diverse yak herds settlements with the spectacular view of Larke Peak, Ngadi Chuli, Hiunchuli, and many others.
Kal (Death Lake): Ascend from Prok village to the freshwater high altitude lake of Kal Tal at 3600 meters, offering the unparalleled views of Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Mount Manaslu itself, which demands 1 extra day in your itinerary.
The trek to Everest Base Camp is regarded as one of the best trekking places in the world, not only in Nepal, which takes you to the foothill of the world's tallest peak - Mount Everest (8848.88 m), along with an exploration of Sherpa cultures and villages. This trip begins with a kick-off flight to Lukla, traversing through the diverse settlements such as Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, along with the thundering Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers, and cultural insight of the Tengboche and Pangboche monasteries, with an ascent to iconic Everest view points. During the acclimatization (rest day), while in Namche, it takes you to the world's highest situated 5-star hotel - the Everest View Hotel, and also, Khumjung village, Sherpa museum, Hillary airport, and charity school.
Everest Base Camp - the foothill of the world's highest peak
The trip distance covers 132 km, with a daily hike of 5 to 7 hours, and leads you to the highest point of 5545 meters at Kala Patthar, which offers panoramic 360-degree views of Mt Everest along with the Khumbu glacier surrounding other Himalayan peaks. The trek usually lasts for 10 to 14 days, depending on the itinerary, which navigates within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sagarmatha National Park, with the iconic view of Himalayan peaks such as Nuptshe, Lhotshe, Makalu, Cho Oyu, along with Mount Everest itself, with the front row view of Mt Ama Dablam and Tharmseku, over 8000 meters.
One of the best aspects about this trek stands out to be the accessibility of the best 5-star lodges and tea houses, with highly maintained services, that blend mountainous views with the modern amenities perfectly. Besides, it offers varied transportation accessibility, including the Everest Base Camp Trek by road, if you want to avoid the delay or cancellation of Lukla flight, which usually happens at peak seasons, or else, you can venture out to EBC Trek with Heli return, that follows the regular trekking route to reach Kalapatthar, but returns with a helicopter ride, avoiding the trekking trail to Lukla. The flight can be directly undertaken to return to Kathmandu, with an additional cost of $ 350 per head, on a sharing basis.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Maximum Height: 5545 m
Ideal Time: Spring or Autumn, and winter as well
Permits: Sagarmatha National Park Permit and local entry permit
Daily Hiking: approx. 6 to 7 hrs
Accommodation: Standard tea house to luxury basis
Major Features: What to expect?
Explore the untamed beauty of the Himalayan flora and biodiversity within Sagarmatha National Park with an insight into the massive transformation of the six climatic zones
Know the Sherpa culture in depth, their daily livelihood, cultures, festival celebrations, norms, and values
Visit the famous Tengboche and Khumjung monasteries, inspiring the monks' prayers, along with preserved ancient sculptures
Side Trips
Ascend to Nangkartshang Peak (5104 m) from Dingboche, offering the unparalleled view of the Himalayan peaks
Hike to Khumjung village, from Namche, that shows an insight into the education sector of the Khumbu region, as it also visits the Hillary school and the medical helpline, along with the mysterious Khumjung monastery
Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang Valley Trek marks its place as the top treks to do in Nepal, considering the 3 major aspects: firstly, the Langtang region stands out due to its proximity to Kathmandu, which can be reached with a 6-7 hour drive to Syabrubesi, the starting point. Secondly, even though the trek crosses an elevation of over 4000 meters, it is easy and short to undertake, and can be done by beginners to families with kids, and old senior citizens safely, without any risk of high altitude mountain sickness, if the itinerary is crafted well. Lastly, it explores the iconic conservation area of Langtang National Park, which serves as a home to pristine landmarks, villages, and diverse landscapes, rich Himalayan flora and fauna, where the ethnic groups of the Tamang, Sherpa, and Yolmo communities reside.
This trek usually lasts for 5 to 8 days, depending on whether your itinerary includes an ascent to the highest point of the trip, Tsergo Ri (4984 m), or Kyanjin Ri (4200 m), which offers panoramic views of Langtang Lirung and Langtang Ri, with other surrounding snow-capped, alluring peaks. The major highlights of the trip remain the Kyanjin Gompa - 3880 meters, known as the popular spiritual hub and the famous yak cheese, as there is a Swiss yak factory nearby, which contributes, the 80% economy of the locals.
Langtang Lirung
Whereas, the famous Langtang village shows the motivational insight into, strong unity of the locals, who rebuilt their infrastructure, homes, once again, after the devastating earthquake in 2012 A.D. No matter what experiences you have, who you are trekking with, and how long your holiday duration is, Langtang valley, marks as a must do himalayan adventure in Nepal, that caters the preference of everyone, and still offers the himalayan adventure alike, off beaten trail with less crowded trekking route. If you are short on time, then you can complete the iconic Langtang Trek in 5 days as well, without opting for an uphill walk to Tserko Ri, but you can reach the viewpoint of Kynajin Ri.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Easy Going to Moderate
Maximum Height:4984 m
Ideal Time: Spring and Autumn
Permits: Langtang National Park Permit and TIMS Card
Daily Hiking: approx. 5 to 6 hrs
Accommodation: tea house basis
Major Features: What to expect?
Spent a day in the famous spiritual hub of Langtang in Kyanjin Gompa, witnessing the daily monk prayers, festival celebrations, and famous yak cheese
Unveil the beauty of the untamed Langtang National Park, where the rare species such as the red eluisve panda, snow leopard can be witnessed if luck fits lol
Get accompanied by the surreal views of Langtang Himalayas, along with several glaciers like Yala, Barun, Lirung, and many others
Side Trips: Add-on options
Gosaikunda Lake: By adding 3-4 days, you can explore the holy lake of Gosaikunda, famous for mythological beliefs and the beauty of the wetland itself, with the reflection of the surrounding mountains.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trail is best trekking routes in Nepal, which encircles the whole Annapurna range in 1 single adventure, which is personally our favourite trip, within the Annapurna region, as it showcases the six climatic zones in the Himalayas, passing through the dense forested trail, bloomed with red rhododendrons, rugged terrains, open landscapes, and culturally rich settlements of Tibetan communities, along with the breathtaking panoramic views of mountains.
Way to Thorong La Pass - 5416 meters
One of the highlighted aspects of this trip is that you will reach the top pinnacle of the highest mountain pass - Thorung La (5416 m), and also, get a chance to visit the Hindu pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple. The trip is a bit strenuous, as it ascends to an altitude over 3000 m per day; however, the alluring views of the Himalayan peaks, of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif, keep you engaged, and the warm hospitality of the Thakali and gurung warms your heart.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Moderately strenuous
Maximum Height: 5416 m
Ideal Time: Spring and Autumn
Permits: ACAP and TIMS card
Daily Hiking: approx. 7 hrs
Accommodation: tea house basis
Major Features: What to expect?
Great views of the Himalayan range, including Thorung peak, Chulu West, Pisang, and the Mt Annapurna (8091 m) itself
Get ready to cross over the highest mountain pass of Throng La - 5416 m and the deepest gorge of the Kali Gandaki Valley
Walk along the Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki River
Side Trips: Add-on options
Tilicho Lake: If time fits, then you can consider combining the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, which is the highest altitude lake in the Himalayas, which can be completed with an additional 3 to 4 days.
Upper Mustang Trek
Being considered as "Himal Pari ko Jilla," which means, Land beyond the Himalayas, the trek to Upper Mustang leads you to one of the most remote trailheads within the restricted region of Nepal. This trek explores the Tibetan dry plateau, landscapes of the Himalayas, and great iconic mountains of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif; however, what stands out to be most unique is the ancient sky caves, monasteries, and highly towering landscapes, in orange and black formation. The upper Mustang Valley is also known as the " Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal", as it remains isolated with modern influence, with the least footprint of the hikers as well, as a special trekking permit is required to get access here.
Tsarang Monastery at Upper Mustang valley
This trek takes you to the highest elevation at Lo Manthang, which stands at an elevation of 3840 meters, where the famous Tiji Festival is celebrated, and passes through a less crowded remote trailhead. This Himalayan adventure can be done any time of the year, as it is located within the rain shadow zone, where you can visit this iconic place even during monsoon and winter times. The trip begins and ends in Jomsom, and explores many monasteries exploration with diverse Tibetan communities and the Hindu spiritual site of Muktinath Temple, walking along the world's deepest gorge of Kali Gandaki.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Maximum Height: 3840 m
Ideal Time: All year (however, winter is less likely to be suggested)
Permits: Restricted Area permit, ACAP, Tims card
Daily Hiking: approx. 6 to 7 hrs
Accommodation: tea house or camping tents
Main Attractions: What to expect?
Visit and explore the capital city of Mustang - Lo Manthang, and witness the Tiji festival if the seasonal time matches your trekking time
Unveil the magnificent ancient beauty of spiritual sites, monasteries, including Ghar gompa, sculptures, and sky caves
Experience the Tibetan-influenced settlements, unveiling the rich culture of Loba communities
Side Trips
Hike to Chhoser, with an exploration of ancient monasteries, sky caves, along the deepest gorge of the Kali Gandaki valley, surrounded by Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
One of the easy and short treks, the Poon Hill Trek, is listed as one of the best trekking routes in Nepal, suitable for every kind of hiker, and fits in everyone's budget and timeframe as well. This trip leads you through the dense forested trail, blooming with red rhododendrons, oaks, with the chirping sound of wild birds, and opens up with the villages of Gurung and Magar communities, with their rich cultures and traditions.
The trip falls under one of the most iconic trailheads, the Annapurna Conservation Area, providing access to combine this trip with other Himalayan adventures at the same time. During this journey, you need to hike 4-5 hrs per day and can be finished within 5-6 days starting from Kathmandu, whereas, if you are willing to head to this adventure from Pokhara, then you can directly choose to opt for the Ghorepani Trek for 4 days, exploring famous settlements such as Ghandruk, Tadapani, Syauli, and Ghorepani itself.
The major highlight of this trek stands out to be the Poon Hill viewpoint, which is perched at an elevation of 3210 meters, showing the sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, along with other surrounding Himalayan peaks. It showcases the terraced fields, yaks grazing beautifully at the same time, and lets us witness the unchanged culture of the gurung ethnic, where you can get dressed up in their traditional attire, jewelry, and also get to know their history and lifestyle as well.
Being a perfect fusion of easy accessibility, short, and one of the most rewarding Himalayan adventures, it falls under one of the best trekking places in Nepal, which caters to the budget, time, and feasibility of everyone.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Easy and beginner-friendly
Maximum Height: 3210 m
Ideal Time: All year (however, winter is less likely to be suggested)
Permits: ACAP, TIMS Card
Daily Hiking: approx. 4 to 5 hrs
Accommodation: tea house or camping tents
Main Attractions
Walk along the Modi Khola River, crossing several suspension bridges, forested areas, and river streams, through the woodlands
360-degree panoramic views of several mountains, such as the Annapurna range, Niligiri, Mt Fishtail, and the Dhaulagiri massif
Side Trips: Add-ons option
Explore Ghandruk village: Add 1 extra day to explore the famous Ghandruk settlement, where the gurung communities reside, sharing warm hospitality along with the culture and traditions.
Combine with Khopra Ridge Trek: Ascend to the Khayer Lake, a Hindu holy lake, worshipped as a deity, exploring the off-beaten trailheads, within the Annapurna region.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek stands out being one of the spectacular mountain treks and family-friendly treks in Nepal, where you are stranded in the Annapurna Sanctuary, one of the most picturesque trekking sites in the world, leading you to the world's 10th tallest peak - Mount Annapurna (8091 m). The track winds through gorgeous rhododendron forests, villages of local Gurungs, Magars, Sherpas, and high-altitude alpine pastures to a base camp altitude of 4,130 meters, which can be easily accessible from the city of Lake Pokhara.
What makes this trek unique is the different sets of experiences imparted upon a trekker on the way. You pass by terraces where people plant rice and vegetables, cross suspension bridges over the roaring rivers, and suddenly start climbing up further into the mountains, where thinning air offers splendid views. This is the spring of any high-altitude trekking experience without the challenges of high-altitude treks.
There is another Short ABC Trek option for someone really pressed for time. Nevertheless, once you enter the trek, either one will take you to the magnificent Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), where Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and so many more giant mountains loom around as some sort of ancient observer. With a perfect fusion of diverse cultural exploration of Tibetan communities, the Himalayan peaks of the Annapurna range, and the rich exploration of Himalayan flora and fauna, the enlisting trek to ABC is one of the top 3 best treks in Nepal.
Trip Facts
Trip Duration: It is a rewarding trek that takes 7-12 days, and the time is flexible, as it is important to allow time to cover landscapes and the vast culture of the Annapurna region.
Level: Medium Trek, good physical condition, and minimal level of trekking experience, daily walk at the altitude of the mountains, and a progressive altitude gain.
Accommodation: Tea houses and mountain lodges that are simple, where you stay when having a warm meal under the fantastic mountains in various places on the trail.
Best Seasons: It is best to go there during the autumn and spring months due to clear skies, mild temperatures, and a clear view of the mountains.
Fits For: Suitable for intermediate trekkers of good fitness levels who are keen to have classical experiences of the Himalayas, at a moderate level of physical difficulty.
Main Attractions: What to expect?
Stunning full panorama mountain, opens access to the religious Annapurna Sanctuary, crosses a range of geography to valleys and up to the alpine worlds, and experiential ecstasy of the rich intercultural exchanges.
Navigate through the iconic Annapurna Conservation Area, with blooming red rhododendrons, white oaks, and pines, with a distinct cultural exploration of Magar and gurung communities
Side Trips: Add-ons option
Poon Hill: Reach the vantage viewpoint of one of the iconic vantage spots - Poonhill, which shows the panoramic views of the Annapurna range with more than 10 Himalayan peaks, by adding an extra 2 days. Opt for ABC Trek via poon hill, which explores the lap of the world's tenth-tallest mountain and also the popular trekking routes of Ghorepani poon Hill.
Mardi Himal Trek
Looking to swap a got-to-be-seen mountain view for an array of delightful moments? Well, the Mardi Himal Trekis just for you! This hidden gem affords some of the closest views of Machapuchare (Fish Tail mountain) and Annapurna South. The tracks wind through the pristine forest of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo in a completely ignored jungle ambiance, then rocky and dry alpine terrain.
The trek offers solitude amid the most breathtaking views. You'll walk ridge trails with spectacular panoramic vistas of the vast Annapurna range, stay in tea houses run by sweet local families, and experience viewpoints that last forever in memory. When it comes to winter trekking with plenty of tourists, this one seems more like your private mountain adventure.
Mardi Himal High Camp
This Himalayan adventure is a sweet antidote to the standard tourist track and offers an authentic mountain life experience. The villages en route are small and traditional, and there you can see how people have been working in the mountains generation by generation. The sunrise at the 4500 meters of the Mardi Himal Base Camp is magical, and you will never forget it during your life to be able to meet with the snow-capped mountains and have the sun during its first light of the day. Compared to other trekking trails, this trek to Mardi Himal is less crowded, offering serenity, providing you some me time to connect with nature, and also off off-beaten experience.
If you are looking for a short adventure, then consider opting for the 5-Day Mardi Himal Trek, starting from Pokhara.
Trip Facts
Trip Duration: an effortless 5-7-day hike that suits the appropriate period of time in case one is a hiking novice who needs to trek in the Himalaya or merely wants to experience the wilderness, yet can not add much time and commitment.
Trip Category: Easy to moderate trek, in which the level of daily distances as well as overall elevation gains are not too challenging, and great to learn and have some experience in the mountains with trekking.
Accommodation: Teahouses en route are highly hospitable and will afford reasonable food, bare amenities, and home-like warm hospitality.
Best Seasons: spring and autumn months are preferred as weather conditions are stable and the mountain views are at their best in order to have the best experiences during treks.
Main Attractions: What to expect?
Explore the less crowded trailhead, within the Annapurna region, giving you a first-hand experience of what an off-beaten trailhead looks like in the Himalayas
Panoramic views of the Annapurna range, along with Dhaulagiri massif, Nilgiri, and Mount Fishtail - Macchapuchare itself.
It is ideal when you are just setting your feet in the Himalayas and when you want to explore its beauty with your children.
Side Trips: Add-ons option
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC): Reach the foothill of the world's 10th-tallest peak - Mt Annapurna (8091 m), as well along with Macchapuchare Base Camp (MBC) and Mardi Himal Base Camp, consider combining ABC and Mardi Himal Trek, in one single adventure, that can be completed within 13 days.
Upper Dolpo Trek
Situated in the northwestern side of Nepal, Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote, isolated, and off-beaten trailheads, which covers the lower Dolpo trailhead - The Bayul (Hidden Land), at the same time, surrounded by the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif along with Kanjirowa. To be honest, the Dolpo region itself is too isolated, so you won't find its trace on the map as well. Even though it was initiated back in 90's there is a less amount of footprint, due to the special permit requirement, and also, a long duration of time, from approximately 19 to 22 days, demanding 6-7 hours of hiking per day, which suits only experienced hikers.
This Himalayan adventure leads you to the deepest lake in Nepal, also known as Shey Phoksundo, through diverse terrains, varied landscapes, and ancient monasteries, isolated villages, and also crosses 3 high mountain passes, Kang La, Nangda La, and Jeng La, and touches the Great Himalayan Trail. This trip goes all the way, through camping bases, as there are many sections where tea houses, or even the local villages, aren't available, whereas the route is less crowded, so it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for explorers, passing through the diverse settlements such as Dho Tarap, Tarapkhola, Saldang and many others, with the in depth cultural exploration of Bon Buddhism spirituality.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Very Strenuous
Maximum Height: 5670 m
Ideal Time: All year (however, winter is less likely to be suggested)
Permits: Upper Dolo and Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
Daily Hiking: approx. 7 to 8 hours
Accommodation: camping trek
Main Attractions: What to expect?
Reach the 3 high mountain passes: Kang La, Nangda La, and Jeng La, over 5000 meters
Get a lively experience of the Bon Buddhism community and their rich hospitality, where the smiling faces of Tibetan kids amaze you.
Gaze at the blue emerald Shey Phoksundo Lake, with the surrounding Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Next on our list of the best treks in Nepal is the Kanchenjunga Trek, which falls under one of the remotest and isolated sections, which demonstrates the distinct views of the world's 3rd highest peak - Mount Kanchenjunga (8586 m).
This trip encircles the whole massif of Kanchenjunga, touching both base camps of North and South, touching the iconic Great Himalaya Trail, and showing the diverse landscapes and untamed beauty of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. This trek allows you to experience the local culture of the distinct ethnic communities, such as the Limbu, Rai, and Lepcha communities, and also, at the same time, showcases the pristine wetlands, glaciers, and ice walls, with the surrounding Yalung Glacier and the Kanchenjunga massif itself.
This trek is perfect for those who have ample time and have the knowledge of the high altitude treks, at the same time, who crave to seek ancient tea houses, and off-beaten trails, without any hint of modernization influence. It takes approximately. 17 to 22 days to complete the whole journey, crossing the high mountain passes of Sele La Pass (4484 m) and Sinion La (4647 m), which demands a special permit, and an experienced supporting crew (guide, porter, and logistics camping tent porters).
If this trek doesn't match your holiday duration or sounds like a lengthy adventure, then you can choose any of the two base camps, either the North Kanchenjunga Base Camp or the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, while the southern ones lead you to Oktang View Point (4730 m), whereas the northern one takes you to Pang Pema, 5140 m.
Trip Facts
Difficulty Level: Very Strenuous
Maximum Height: 5140 m - Pang Pema
Ideal Time: Spring and Autumn only
Permits: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit and Restricted Area Permit
Daily Hiking: approx. 7 to 8 hours
Accommodation: camping or tea house trek
Main Attractions: What to expect?
Reach both base camps of south and north - Pang Pema and Oktang viewpoint, a single adventure
Cross over the high mountain passes of Sele La Pass at an elevation of 4482 m and Sinion La at 4648 m
Witness the unchanged culture of Lepcha, Rai, and Limbu communities, and take a chance to interact with 1 in 1 conversations, and be a part of their festivals
Visit several monasteries, temples, and other spiritual landmarks where meditation, prayers, and chants are hosted with other boasting festivals
Seasonal Variations and Weather Patterns during the trek in Nepal
Seasonal consideration is one of the most essential things to understand while trekking in Nepal, as it influences how your trek goes, trekking difficulty, views, cultural exploration, flight accessibility, and safety at the same time.
Best Time to Visit Nepal: Ideal Seasons
Nepal has basically four seasons: Spring, Autumn, Winter, and Monsoon, whereas each season has distinct features and unique aspects to offer, depending on which trekking routes you are opting for. Generally, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the peak trekking season here in Nepal, due to the stable climate conditions and temperature offering a mild humidity for long hikes and great mountain and landscape views, without any gloominess.
Spring highly denotes the blooming, colorful wild flowers like rhododendrons, perfectly thriving in the green hills, with the unparalleled panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The temperature usually ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius at mid elevation over 2500 meters, whereas above 3500 meters, it might drop slightly to 0 to -5 degrees Celsius, which is moderate, because many treks are on the high elevation side. Meanwhile, while trekking during Autumn, the blooming flowers of spring turn into a full golden shade, drying out, giving a distinct perspective, with the festival celebration of Dashain and Tihar, along with the great views of the mountains and landscapes.
Understanding the perks of the monsoon and winter seasons
In Nepal, the monsoon falls in June, July, and August, where there is a heavy level of precipitation (high rainfall and snowfall), making the terrain slippery, filled with leeches and mosquitoes, in the lower elevation of the forested trail. Whereas, at the higher elevation, there might be blockage to the high mountain passes, over 4000 meters, which might disrupt the overall trip.
Due to the thick precipitation during the monsoon season, the mountain and landscape vista get covered and gloomy, with the hills covered with greenery and high waterfalls, with the roaring sound of rivers. Meanwhile, the winter season falls under December, January, and February, and the temperature falls below -5 to -10 degrees Celsius, with heavy snowfall; however, it offers the white snow-capped peaks, and the serenity, peaceful with fewer crowds at trailheads, which is why many adventure seekers crave to opt for winter trekking in Nepal as well.
With the right gears, well-customized itineraries, and choosing the right trekking destinations, you can undertake some of the best trekking routes in Nepal, smoothly and with ease, without any hassle, that suits your time and budget.
FAQS: Your Most Asked Questions
What is the hardest trek in Nepal?
The difficulty of the trek depends on the 3 factors: firstly, the accessibility to transportation (roadway vehicle), daily distance and overall duration coverage, and access to basic amenities. Considering all these factors, three major Himalayan adventures are considered challenging. Firstly, the Kanchenjunga Trek, due to the basic and zero traces of tea house, and long duration journey, secondly, the Three High Pass Trek, which is the most challenging treks within Everest region, as it crosses 3 high passes over 5000 meters, whereas, another last treks that fit in at the hardest treks in Nepal, marks to be, Nar Phu Valley Trek, due to the rugged terrains and less accessibility to basic facilities.
What are the best treks in Nepal for beginners?
There are several treks in Nepal that beginners can opt for, which are moderate in terms of difficulty and also attain below 5000 meters of elevation. Some of the suggested options are the Everest View Trek, within the Everest region; however, for a unique and distinct kind of hike, you can opt for the Helambu Trail, which lies within the Langtang region.
How many days are required for the Nepal Trip?
The duration that you need to stay here in Nepal depends on which trekking route you are opting for, and you must acquire a Nepal visa accordingly; however, if you are opting for Everest region treks or any flight accessible trailhead, treks, it is suggested to set 2-4 buffer days, as the flight scehedule might get delayed for hours and last for several days, due to huge traffic congestion and unfortunate weather condition.
Can I combine any tours while trekking in Nepal?
Yes, to enhance your journey and overall experience, consider combining famous treks with many adventures, jungle safari, or cultural tours here in Nepal. Some of the recommendations are the Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour, Nepal Tour, or several options, such as a 1-day Kathmandu sightseeing tour, which stands out as perfect to begin and conclude the trip with.
What are the easiest short treks in Nepal?
There are many short and easy treks that you can consider here in Nepal, lasting from 3 to 7 days, perfect for those who do not want a challenging and long-duration hike. Some of the famous, easy short treks are the Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Chispani Nagarkot Trek, and even Gosaikunda Lake Trek, which lasts for 3 to 5 days.
What are the best monsoon treks in Nepal?
Even though the ideal season to trek here in Nepal is marked by Spring and Autumn, however, you can undertake many trekking routes in Nepal during monsoon as well, which falls within the rain shadow area, such as Upper Mustang Trek, Nar Phu, Rara Lake Trek, or even Poon Hill. However, it is suggested to carry essential gear and equipment accordingly, as the weather can change at any time, whereas the temperature conditions at the same time as well; nonetheless, the precipitation level remains zero at upper terrains.
Conclusion
Nepal is a place where any kind of adventure seeker can undertake the journey to begin with, as it is one of the country, which caters, short treks, long adventures, peak climbing, cultural tours, and of course! wild off beaten adventure, launching many best trekking routes, for adventure seekers across the globe. From the diverse landscapes, to the untamed beauty of the rich Himalayan flora and fauna, to the highly towering mountains along with pristine wetlands, and the culture of ethnic group communities, highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, like Rai, Lepcha, Sherpa, and Tamang, you will experience the ethnic warm hospitality of the locals.
We've enlisted many best treks in Nepal, with a professional expert-guided team, ensuring that you can choose one without any doubt or any hassle, from long to short treks in varied regions in Nepal. We also, have other extensive lists and best trekking packages in Nepal, in our site, that you can check, which can customized as per your time and budget, feel free to contact us at Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition, if you have any queries