15 best trekking at Nepal- Places you must visit

Travel freaks from all around the world dream of hiking in the shadows of the magnificent Himalayas range and wandering through the verdant hills. This land of the Himalayas homes so many stunning mountain peaks i.e. eight of the world’s highest. Along with the blessing of nature, the hidden valleys of Nepal have also been bestowed with the beauty of unique culture. The classic Sherpa and Tamang villages help you get an understanding of life like never before. And obviously, there’s a rich bio-diversity within the tropical and temperate forests of Nepal. This is why Nepal falls among the top destination for trekkers all around the world. This article is about the best trekking at Nepal.

However, the major question here is “Where should you trek in Nepal”. 

Despite being small, Nepal has numerous great trekking destinations. And picking one among these best treks in Nepal determines what kind of fun you experience on the journey. Each best place to visit in Nepal has its specific perks. And here’s the best of the 15 best trekking at Nepal. 

Everest base camp trek

Everest Base camp Trek

The majestic Mt. Everest, the world’s tallest peak needs no introduction. And without a second opinion, it’s Nepal’s most popular and best place for trekking at Nepal. Imagine standing between five world’s highest mountains in an area full of thick snow. We shall even hike beyond Everest base camp and climb to Kalapatthar for an even better panorama of the mountains. 

Everest lies in the northeast region of Nepal in the Solukumbu district. Trekking in the Khumbu region encompasses the rich flora and fauna within the Sagarmatha National Park. And we must mention the famous Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche which gives you a deep insight into Nepalese culture.

Cons: However, the Everest base camp trek route is quite more expensive for trekking at Nepal. That’s because you are likely to start the journey by taking a domestic flight to Lukla and even the cost of food and accommodation is higher. Otherwise, it’s obviously Nepal’s best trek. 

Facts of Everest base camp trek

• Maximum Elevation: Kalapatthar (5550 M)
• Starting point/ Ending point: Lukla Airport 
• Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Tea house and Luxury hotels
• Duration: 12 to 15 days
• Distance: Lukla to Everest base camp is 38.5 miles (62 kilometers)
• Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate
• Price: Moderate to high 

Annapurna Circuit trek

Annapurna trek

The Annapurna circuit has been famous in Nepal for many years and always ranks as best trekking at Nepal. Along with the awesome mountain view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range, this trail is known for its incredibly diverse landscape. You shall start the journey from Besisahar which is full of terrace farms and sub-tropical lush green forest. Crossing many rivers and waterfalls along the way, we move towards the rocky landscape of Manang and Mustang. As we move to the higher elevations, the alpine grassland and its colorful rocks make you feel out of the world. 

Further, you shall cross via the Annapurna Conservation Area, thus witnessing one of the richest biodiversity. And since the trek ends in Jomsom, we also get to visit Muktinath and drive to Pokhara. Pokhara is itself a paradise for travel freaks with so many awesome places to visit, a great ending point for trekking at Nepal.  

Cons: Circling the entire Annapurna range is quite daunting and crossing the high passes can be challenging for newbie hikers. The Annapurna Circuit is quite long and can extend up to 25 days. However, people now cover almost half the route in Jeep. 

Facts about Annapurna Circuit trek

• Maximum Elevation: 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass
• Starting point: Besisahar or Jagat
• Ending Point: Nayapul, Pokhara  
• Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Basic tea house 
• Duration: 15 to 22 days
• Distance: 131 km
• Permits: Annapurna conservation area permit and TIMS card 
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Price: Moderate 

Annapurna base camp trek 

Want all the thrill of Everest base camp at a cheaper rate and shorter time? Then, you can pick the Annapurna base camp trek for trekking at Nepal. This tour takes you to the gorgeous Annapurna region of Nepal, exploring the rich Himalayan culture and bio-diversity. The lifestyle and hospitality of Magar and Gurung people in the area can be a good lesson for you. 

Being one of the easiest base camp treks in Nepal, Annapurna base camp is coincidental, the busiest trek route. Almost 50,000 trekkers make it to the base camp of Annapurna each year. And since the altitude of Annapurna base camp is quite low, it comes with a lower risk of altitude sickness and unstable weather. Moreover, you also get to explore the beauty of Pokhara while trekking at Nepal. 

Cons: Annapurna base camp is quite busy and noisy in the peak season. Also, there are no monasteries and big villages for an additional cultural insight.

Facts about Annapurna base camp trek

• Maximum Elevation: 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp
• Starting/ Ending point: Nayapul, Pokhara  
• Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Good tea house 
• Duration: 9 to 12 days
• Distance: 67 kms around the trek 
• Permits: Annapurna conservation area permit and TIMS card 
• Trekking difficulty: Easy to Moderate 
• Price range: Low 

Langtang valley trek

Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang valley trek is not just about the mountains. This is in fact a culturally rich experience in the remote villages of Nepal, giving a wholesome thrill of trekking at Nepal.  The hidden monastery, colorful prayer flags, and the relaxing chants of the mantras give a deep understanding of Buddhist culture. This easy and short trek in the north of the capital is the closest trekking trail to Kathmandu. With the richness of flora and fauna within the Langtang National Park, this easy trek to the mountains gives you a wholesome experience. The entire forest is filled with Musk Deer, Red Pandas, Himalayan Thar, and other colorful birds.

The ultimate destination of this trek is Langtang village and Kyanjin Gompa. Also, we shall hike to Tserko Ri for the breathtaking panorama of the frozen glacier and snowy mountains. 

Cons: Since you wouldn’t actually trek to the base camp, the proximity to the Himalayas is not felt as you might experience in other treks. That’s why it’s a less popular remote trail. 

Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 4,984m, Tserko Ri
• Starting/ Ending point: Syabrubesi
• Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Tea house 
• Duration: 7 to 12 days
• Distance: 26.24km from Syabrubesi to Tserko Ri
• Permits: Langtang National park permit and local area permit (TIMS card not needed)
• Trekking difficulty: Easy to Moderate 
• Price range: Low 

Upper Mustang trek

Upper Mustang trek

Exploring Nepal’s oldest Buddhist kingdom of Mustang and its capital Lo Manthang is definitely a once-a-lifetime kind of adventure. The entire valley still lives with a belief in kingship; strictly following their local culture while trekking at Nepal. There are stunning whitewashed Gompas, prayer flags, mani walls, and Chortens decorating the entire valley. 

Lying in the rain shadow region of Nepal, Mustang’s landscape and beauty are completely different from rest of the Nepal. Since the Mustang valley lies behind Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, the colorful rocks and grassland make it an awesome trekking destination. Similarly, there are mountains like Annapurna, Mardi, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. The trip commences with a drive or flight to Lukla. From Muktinath, we head future north to the village of Lo Manthang which is surrounded by huge walls. 

Cons: Trekking in winter to Upper Mustang is hard due to snow. Otherwise, it’s a perfect trek in Nepal. 

Facts about Langtang valley trek

• Maximum Elevation: 3,770m at Lo Manthang
• Starting/ Ending point: Jomsom 
• Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Tea house 
• Duration: 12 to 17 days
• Permits: Restricted area permit, Annapurna Conservation Area permit, and TIMS card 
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate 
• Price range: Low to Moderate 

Manaslu trek

Lying in the central north of Nepal, right next to the famous Annapurna circuit trek trail, Manaslu is the world’s 8th tallest mountain. This trekking route was opened for foreigners only in the year 90s and remained intact from foreign impact. With so many natural and cultural wonders hidden from the world, Manaslu is definitely the world’s tallest mountain.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a diverse and remote land enriched by very different topography. Between 600m to 5,135 m, there are unlimited natural wonders you can explore. Also, you get the thrill of mountain climbs while exploring the Manaslu base camp. Further, crossing Larke Pass gives you the highest form of adventure while trekking at Nepal. 

Cons: Since there are only a few tea houses along the route, you might have to pre-book the accommodation in advance. 

Trek Facts about Manaslu Circuit trek

• Maximum Elevation: 5,115 m, Larke Pass
• Starting/ Ending point: Barpak 
• Internet: Available in most places
• Accommodation: Tea house 
• Duration: 13 to 20 days
• Distance: 177 km (110 miles)
• Permits: Special Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Project, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Price range: Moderate

Nar Phu valley trek 

This is the newly discovered trekking trail that lies in between the Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayan region. This relatively short and exciting trek offers views of the Himalayas, such as Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and more. This might be the least disturbed trekking trail in the Annapurna region. 

The major highlight of these new treks in Nepal is the cultural delight of people living in Nar and Phu valley. The lifestyle of medieval Bhotias might give you unique insight into life. Also, lying in the restricted region of Nepal, the culture here is quite pure. In the deep canyons, trekkers can witness the Tibetan chortens, mani stones, rotating wheels and hidden monasteries. This can also be a best treks in Nepal for beginners.

Cons: A bit expensive permit and fundamental kind of accommodation; Solo/ Independent trekking is also not allowed in Nar Phu. 

Facts about Nar Phu Valley trek 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,306 m at Kang La Pass
• Starting point: Koto
•  Ending point: Besisahar
•  Internet: Mostly Available 
• Accommodation: Tea houses/ homestay 
• Duration: 9 to 13 days
• Permits: Nar Phu Valley restricted area permit and Annapurna Conservation Area permit
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Price: Moderate

Gokyo lake trek

Gokyo Lake Trek

Wanna witness Mount Everest at a close distance while avoiding the chaos and noise of the classic Everest base camp route while trekking at Nepal?

Then, this Gokyo Lake trek is an ideal tour for you. 

The sparkling blue and green glacier lakes of Gokyo make one of Nepal’s most memorable views. This freshwater lake above 5,000 meters makes picture-perfect views. There are five emerald lakes, each lying at the corners of the valley. The trekkers to Gokyo also get to witness the astonishing panorama and the sunrise view from Gokyo Ri, Cho La Pass, and Everest base camp. Also, exploring the Gokyo valley and the Sherpa settlement at such an altitude is already a blessing. Moreover, you get to avoid the noise of the typical route and still get to explore the Everest base camp on a slightly different path.

Cons: A rather challenging climb to Gokyo Ri, Chola pass and Renjo La Pass. And if you skip the Renjo La pass, you have to use the same trail up and down.

Facts of Everest base camp trek

• Maximum Elevation: Gokyo Ri 5,357 m
• Starting point/ Ending point: Lukla Airport 
• Internet: Mostly Available 
• Accommodation: Tea house
• Duration: 15 to 20 days
• Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Price: Moderate to high 

Poonhill Ghandruk trek

Poonhill Ghandruk Trek is the best short trek in Nepal and an easy yet prodigious trek in the Annapurna region. The stunning view of the Himalayas and the beautiful Rhododendron forest makes it even more attractive. Poonhill is popular for its magnificent sunrise and beautiful landscape, a great place for trekking at Nepal.

People with less trekking experience can make this trek with minimum risk. The case of altitude sickness and cramps is this trek is close to nill, thus a perfect starting to a high altitude trek journey. Many people prefer to merge the Poonhill Ghandruk trek with Annapurna Base Camp Trek for an adventurous twist.

Cons: Mountain appears far and distant while you might not see a clear view of the Himalayas when the weather is cloudy

Facts of Poonhill Ghandruk trek

• Maximum Elevation: Poonhill 3,210 m
• Starting point/ Ending point: Nayapul or Ulleri, Pokhara  
• Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Good tea houses/lodges available
• Duration: 5 to 7 days 
• Permits: TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation area permit
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Easy
• Price: Low

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Wanna enjoy something remote and adventurous best hikes in Nepal? Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is among Nepal’s remote treks filled with many unknown challenges. Graded as strenuous trekking at Nepal, this trek is reserved for experienced trekkers in the mountains. 

Harder the trek, better the view. This statement stands true while trekking in the restricted area of Kanchenjunga. To make things even more adventurous, we hike to both of the base camps, i.e. north base camp and the south base camp. Not just Kanchenjunga, we shall enjoy the view of other mountain peaks, including Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse. And since Kanchenjunga has been in the shadow of modernization for many years, the pure culture of Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu ethnic groups can be experienced here. 

Cons: This is a remote trekking region, and you might not find proper food and accommodation. Since some parts of Kanchenjunga base camp and Kanchenjunga circuit trek is still camping trekking destination, it’s a very challenging journey to conquer. 

Facts of Kanchenjunga base camp trek

• Maximum Elevation: 5,140 at Kanchenjunga Base Camp
• Starting point/ Ending point: Mitlung via Taplejung
• Internet: Not Available 
• Accommodation: Tea houses/ camping 
• Duration: 22 to 28 days
• Permits: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP), and a restricted Area Entry Permit for the trail in Tapethok and Yamphuding VDCs
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Price: High 

Upper Dolpo trek 

Dolpo region lies in the west north of Nepal, and this is, without doubt, Nepal’s most remote trekking destination, and that is what makes Dolpo the best hikes in Nepal. Walking the Dhaulagiri range and the Tibetan Plateaus gives you the most exciting challenge of your life. And we must mention a thrilling mountain flight to Jhupal. 

Along with the breath-taking landscape of the high- Himalayan, the pristine beauty of Shey-Phoksundo is also the major highlight of this mountain land. Protected within Shey Phoksundo National Park, this glacier lake is Nepal’s smallest and most beautiful one. Similarly, the National park has exotic Himalayan flora and fauna, including snow Leopard, rare Himalayan Blue Sheep, Himalayan Black bear, etc. Discover marine fossils and quartz while also living the classic Tibetan Buddhism lifestyle. 

Upper Dolpo is also the restricted trekking region of Nepal, with its culture and natural heritage protected from the world. And since this is a restricted trekking region, independent trekkers are not allowed to trek alone- you must be a group of two people and have a guide with you. 

Cons: Upper Dolpo is a very remote land with almost no facility; Solo trekking is not allowed, and the risk of altitude sickness is high. 

Facts of Upper Dolpo trek

• Maximum Elevation: 5,306 m at Kang La Pass
• Starting point/ Ending point: Fly to Juphal
• Internet: Not Available 
• Accommodation: Tea houses/ camping 
• Duration: 26 to 29 days
• Permits: Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit, Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit, Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Price: High 

Makalu base camp trek

A remote wilderness trek in Nepal can be compared to no other adventure. And trekking to Makalu base camp, the fifth tallest mountain peak, has its own perks. Makalu Himalaya range lying next to Everest, lets you experience solitude and peace. However, this is a strenuous trek route, suggested for rather experienced trekkers.

The trek obviously gives you a panoramic view of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and other nearby peaks. Also, you get to live the life of Rai and Sherpa on the east. Wandering into the Makalu Barun National Park, the spotting of rear wildlife is also equally fun, making it one of the best hikes in Nepal.

Cons: This is a very remote, challenging and risky trekking trial that needs big preparation and some simple training before trekking at Nepal.

Facts of Makalu base camp trek

• Maximum Elevation: 4,900m at Makalu Base Camp
• Starting point: Chichila
• Ending point: Num
•  Internet: Not Available 
• Accommodation: Tea houses/ camping 
• Duration: 24 to 26 days
• Permits: Makalu national park and conservation area permit; Makalu Rural Municipality Permit; Restricted Area Special Permit – Condition Apply
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Price: High 

Gosaikunda trek

Gosaikunda Trek

 Who doesn’t love an amalgamation of easy but naturally and culturally delightful treks within a short time? If you are looking for the best tours to the beautiful pristine lake, scenic mountains, unique landscape, and culturally blessed villages, this Langtang Gosainkunda Trek is just your type. This is a beautiful tea house trekking experience close to the capital to Gosainkunda, a holy lake for Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage. Over centuries, Nepalese people have set an arduous journey to this sacred lake, and now it’s open to the public. In August, during Janai Purnima, thousands of people pray here. Besides the lake, you get to walk via the village of Langtang and Kyanjin Gompa for a deep insight into the Tibetan Buddhist culture. We can claim it to be the best trekking in Nepal.

Cons: You might not be able to see the mountains clearly when the weather is bad.

Facts about Langtang Gosaikunda trek 

• Maximum Elevation: 4460m at Gosaikunda
• Starting point: Syabru Besi
•  Ending point: Syabru Besi
•  Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Tea houses
• Duration: 7 to 12 days
• Permits: TIMS card and Langtang National Park permit
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Price: Moderate

Tilicho Lake trek

What could match the thrill of standing before the world’s highest altitude lake? Tilicho Lake, at almost 5,000 meters above sea level, is a pristine glacier lake with the backdrop of the Himalayas range. The Tilicho Lake Trek is a Journey to the foothills of the world’s 10th highest mountain, i.e. Annapurna. Every step you take from Kathmandu brings you to the proximity of the Himalayas, and that’s the most beautiful feeling in the world. Definitely a good choice for the best trekking in Nepal.

The trek is not just about the Himalayas and the lake. It is also about the swift-flowing rivers and cascading waterfalls on the trail. The occasionally opening portions of terraced farmlands close to the classic Manang village are a thrill. Once you walk outside the forest, you witness very distinct alpine vegetation while trekking in Nepal.

Cons: It’s a relatively remote trek and also demanding. If you prefer being close to the Himalayas, you might prefer a base camp trek over a lake trek. 

Facts about Tilicho Lake trek 

• Maximum Elevation: 4,919m at Tilicho Lake
• Starting point: Jagat
•  Ending point: Besisahar
•  Internet: Mostly Available 
• Accommodation: Tea houses/ homestay 
• Duration: 10 to 13 days
• Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area permits and TIMS card 
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Moderate 
• Price: Moderate 

 Mardi base camp trek

This might be best short treks in Nepal and easiest trekking route that leads you to the mountain’s base camp. Located right next to the Annapurna Himalaya range, the Mardi Himal trek is now Nepal’s popular emerging destination. Its proximity to Pokhara and easily achievable route make Mardi Himal a famous trekking destination. 

In less than a week, you will be wandering right at the base of the Mardi Himal. The trail has waterfalls and rivers appearing out of nowhere, keeping you excited about the entire route. From the Mardi Viewpoint, one can witness the beauty of the whole Annapurna range, Mardi Himal, and Macchapuchhre range glittering in the sunrise.

Cons: Not an ideal tour for Culture insight as there are only a few settlements in the Mardi trek route.

Facts about Mardi Himal trek 

• Maximum Elevation: Mardi Base camp at 4500m
• Starting point: Dhampus
•  Ending point: Sidhding
•  Internet: Available 
• Accommodation: Tea houses
• Duration: 5 to 7 days
• Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area permits and TIMS card
• Best Season: September- November, March-May
• Trekking difficulty: Easy to Moderate 
• Price: Low  

Final words, 

Well, these are the list of only a few great trekking trails in Nepal. There are many newly emerging and popular trekking trails that we will be writing about in the future. No matter where you plan to travel within Nepal, the Himalayan master organizes Nepal’s best treks. So, are you ready for this adventure with Himalayan masters?

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