Nepal makes it to the top index whenever there's a discussion about trekking and adventure. Recognized as the trekker's paradise multiple times by the world-famous travel platforms, Nepal is home to some of the best trekking destinations in the world. An ideal place for trekking adventures with diverse cultural encounters and ecosystem exploration, there cannot be a more suitable location than Nepal to experience the Himalayan wilderness. Out of fourteen peaks higher than 8000m, eight of them are in Nepal along with the world's highest peak Mount Everest (8848m). So, there's no doubt why Nepal is considered a utopia for trekking and adventure lovers around the globe.
The spectrum of options you get to choose for Trekking in Nepal is a lot more diverse than you assume. The country has something in the bag for everyone, from the hardcore adventure-seekers to leisurely travelers, cultural enthusiasts to nature lovers, Treks in Nepal don't leave anyone behind. From the lengthy high altitude trekking and climbing for experts to moderate short treks for novices, Trekking in Nepal offers a choice for every grade of trekkers from all age groups. With diverse landscapes and topography, treks in Nepal go from dry lowlands to snowy high passes. Some treks are completed in a span of a few days while some take a month-long journey to end. Brief or lengthy, all treks in Nepal present unique visuals and natural aspects to the visitors.
As much as it is satisfying to have a wide range of choices, it can be hard to determine the trekking destination with so much to choose from. When it comes to choosing the right trek in Nepal, you should consider factors like; Length of the trek, difficulty level, and budget required for the trek. After determining the above factors, ask yourself about how hard and remote you want the trek to be. Which season do you prefer to trek and if you're trekking solo or with other companions? As there are a few trekking regions in Nepal that are restricted to trekking solo and require a special permit. If you are a beginner or skilled trekker, considering trekking in Nepal but not sure where to trek. To help you solve the confusion, we have compiled a list of treks that are likely to be the finest treks in Nepal. Here, is the below list of 23 best Nepal Treks which, includes a brief description of the destination along with the highlights, lowlights, and trip facts you need to know before trekking.
Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in the world, leading you to the base camp of the World's tallest mountain Mt. Everest (8848m). You’ll get to stand face to face with the world’s highest mountain & get a majestic view of several other mountains during this trek. Along with the serene nature in the Lap of Himalayas, you can also experience the renowned Sherpa culture and their warm hospitality during this trek. As one of the most trekked destinations of Nepal, the trekking trail to Everest Base Camp can get a little crowded during the peak trekking season.
Highlights
Lowlights
Trek facts
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the best option for trekkers with less time in their hands seeking diverse scenery and culture in the Himalayas of Nepal. Situated in the heart of the Annapurna region, Annapurna Base Camp takes you to the Base camp of the World's tenth highest mountain Mt. Annapurna (8091m). The trek offers a panoramic scenery of the Annapurna mountain range, Mt. Machhapuchhre, and several other peaks all along the journey. Also, during this trek, you get an opportunity to explore the different cultural sides of Nepal including the culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Tamang communities.
Trek Facts
Often regarded as the best classic trek in the World, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the longest journeys one can commence in the Annapurna region. The trek offers a wide variety of topography from the low drylands to the high passes. You get to cross one of the hardest passes during the trek which is Thorang La Pass (5416m). This is a perfect trek for you if you want a combination of culture, nature, and adventure in one journey. As the trek also takes you to some famous Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites. And you get an opportunity to witness and experience the Tibetan culture and lifestyle of the Himalayan region during this trek.
The off-beaten trail in the North of Nepal near Tibet, the Langtang Valley trek is a short and leisurely journey. Leading you to the valley of glaciers, the Langtang Trek is a great option for people wanting to explore a distinct trail with few trekkers. Passing through the forested trail, open fields, and several small settlements brings you to Kyanjin Gompa, a village surrounded by the Langtang Lirung mountain range. The trek also offers you a significant cultural insight into the Tibetan-influenced Sherpa lifestyle and traditions.
Manaslu Trek is a voyage that takes you around the World's eighth highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu. The trek is considered to be challenging as it is at a high altitude and includes crossing a high pass, Larkye La pass (5106m). It is an ideal trek for adventure seekers looking for an experience in the authentic Himalayan wilderness. Enriched by diverse nature and culture, the trek takes you through forested trails, giant waterfalls, Buddhist sanctuaries, and tiny ethnic villages providing you with an experience of a lifetime.
Officially opened for trekking in 2011, the Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem of the Annapurna region. It is a short and ideal trek offering an impressive side of nature and culture to the trekkers. A lot less crowded than other treks of the region, The Mardi Himal trek offers splendid views of the Annapurna mountain range, Mt, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal all along the journey. Leading you to the lap of Mardi Himal and Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal Trek is an off-the-beaten trail, with diverse nature and culture.
The Upper Mustang Trek is a unique trail offering you a distinct secluded part of Nepal. Leading you to the former Himalayan kingdom, Lo Manthang which is considered the hidden world of the Buddhist kingdom, the trek is filled with unspoiled nature and centuries-old preserved Tibetan culture. You can relish majestic sights of mountains like; Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the other Himalayan giants during the trek. The trek also takes you to the sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, Muktinath temple.
Poon Hill Trek is a classic short trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal that offers splendid views of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. A great option for novices and trekkers with less time in their hands, despite being short and easy the Poonhill trek is diverse in natural aspects. With just a walk of a few days, the trek takes you right in front of the giant peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. You can get a breathtaking sunrise view from Poonhill which is considered to be one of the best viewpoints in Nepal for sunrise.
Nar Phu Valley Trek is a wild and remote trek in the north of the Annapurna region. The off-the-beaten-path follows a similar trail to the Annapurna Circuit Trek and then switches its way to remote parts of Nar Phu Valley. One of Nepal’s true hidden valleys, the trek is full of rough landscapes and ancient villages bordering on Tibet. If you're seeking a wild experience in the remote Himalayas of Nepal with relatively few trekkers, the trek is perfect for you. The trek offers you an authentic adventure, culture, and nature all in one journey.
Gokyo Valley Trek is one of the best alternatives to traditional Everest treks for exploring the hidden side of the Everest region. Passing through the diverse landscapes, forested trail, and small Sherpa settlements, the trek takes you to the combination of the six highest glacial lakes, Gokyo Lakes. It is an off-beaten path compared to other classic treks n the Khumbu region offering an equal amount of natural and cultural magnificence. You can relish the epic sceneries of Gokyo Lakes backdropped by giant peaks during the trek.
Upper Dolpo Trek is a high-altitude trek in the far-western Himalayas of Nepal that takes you to the hidden valleys away from contemporary society. It is one of the best remote adventurous treks in Nepal leading you to the Tibetan-style villages in the barren landscapes and the deepest lake of Nepal, Phoksundo lake. You get an opportunity to get a close insight into the Tibetan culture and lifestyle during the trek as the trekking route is near the Tibetan border. The trek is perfect if you want to traverse through unexplored thrilling trails.
One of the most challenging treks of Nepal, Everest Three Pass Trek takes you on a round trip to the Khumbu region. A perfect trek for the people seeking challenging adventures in the Himalayas of Nepal, the Everest Three Passes Trek is a lengthy & demanding trek with a sum of three passes to climb. The trek includes all the gems of the Everest region linking the four distinct valleys of Bhotekoshi, Gokyo, Khumbu, and Imja Tse. You get to cross the rough high passes of Renjo La (5388 m), Cho La (5380 m), and Kongma La (5535 m) with climbing of peaks like; Gokyo Ri (5483 m), Kalapathar (5545 m), and Chukung (5550 m) during this trek.
If you are short on time and looking for an excursion in the Everest region, the Everest View Trek is a great option for you. This less than a week-long trek offers you spectacular views of Himalayan giants like; Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Kusum Kanguru. Following the route of the classic Everest treks, the trek takes you to Namche Bazaar followed by a hike to Everest View Hotel. You can get an amazing panorama of stunning mountains from the Everest view hotel. A great alternative to long Everest treks, the Everest View trek is short, easy, and rewarding.
A trekking trail that only a few have heard of, Pikey Peak Trek is located in the Lower Solukhumbu region. Considered to be the best vantage point to view Mount Everest along with several other mountain ranges, Pikey Peak is situated at an altitude of 4065m. This is a perfect trek for trekkers wanting to discover the unexplored trekking trail in a short period. Leading you to the obscure lower Khumbu region, the trek offers you an opportunity to witness the majestic sunrise view over the World's tallest Mountain, Mt. Everest along with several ranges of mountains.
The best camping adventure in the Himalayan wilderness, Kanchenjunga Trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. The trek takes you to some of the most remote parts of Nepal offering an absolute adventure of tracing steps on the untouched pristine nature. The trek is perfect for you if you're up for a long adventure in the mountains leading to the diverse landscapes from the tropical lowlands to high passes through the lush forests and hills. Presenting you the lifestyle in the eastern part of Nepal, you can learn about the culture and lifestyle of Rai, Limbu, and Gurung communities during the trek.
Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is a mini escape from the hustle and bustle of the city leading you to the hillsides of the Kathmandu valley. It is one of the popular short treks around the valley. The trek starts from Sudarijal and takes you through the lush green forests and diverse landscapes. Nagarkot is a famous viewpoint for getting majestic sights of sunrise and sunsets which is not far and easily accessible from the city. It is the best option for people who prefer a long walk away from the city topped with some scenic views.
Rara Lake Trek is a trek situated in the secluded villages of the Jumla and Mugu districts of Nepal. A trek to the small piece of heaven, Rara Lake is also known as “Queen of Lakes” providing you with a serene experience in the remote part of Nepal. You get to witness breathtaking views of the lake, forest, and hills with the backdrop of mountains during the trek. Attracting you with their precise beauty, the trek is a suitable option if you're looking for a journey in the remote regions of Nepal that offers incredible pieces of nature and culture.
Panchase Trek is a short off-the-beaten trail from Pokhara city away from the real Annapurna trail. It is a perfect short escape to discover natural beauty around Pokhara offering incredible views over the Annapurna Himalayan Range. Also, if you're looking for a short traditional lifestyle experience in the villages of the Annapurna region, the trek is a great option for you. Prominent for the stunning view of the Annapurna mountain range, the Panchase Trek provides you with an opportunity to get insight into the nature and culture of Nepal in a short period.
Makalu Base Camp Trek takes you to the foothills of the fifth highest mountain in the world Mt Makalu (8481 meters). A trek commenced by only a few, the Makalu Base Camp trek is a challenging trail in unspoiled nature. It is a perfect choice if you want to explore a secluded part of Nepal and have the adventure of a lifetime in the Himalayan wilderness. Passing through the deep forests of Rhododendron and terraces farms, the trek leads you to the small settlements of Sherpa and Rai communities where you get to experience the traditional remote lifestyle.
The Royal Trek is a short trek leading you to the foothills of Annapurna in the north of Pokhara city. The Trek is named so because Prince Charles and his 90 people had explored this route in the early eighties. It is filled with diverse natural and cultural aspects, especially as you get to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the ethnic villages during the trek. Highly recommended for beginners with less time in their hands, the Royal trek is a short but unique and rewarding trek.
An alternative for the Langtang and Gosaikunda Treks, the Helambu trek is a relatively short and low-altitude trek. The trek takes you through peaceful forests, green valleys, Buddhist monasteries, and traditional Sherpa and Tamang villages filled with a rich culture. You can enjoy stunning views of the mountains like; Langtang, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Rolwaling, and Gauri Shankar Mountain range during this trek. The trek is ideal for people looking for the culturally rich less crowded trail.
Situated in the Manaslu region, the Tsum Valley Trek is a virgin and off-beat trail with a Tibetan feel to it. The trail is near the Tibetan border providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the authentic culture and traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a perfect trek for trekkers who want to explore the hidden valleys of Nepal in the remote part. The trail passes through pine forests, giant waterfalls, and long suspension bridges leading you to fascinating villages filled with Gompas and monasteries. You can get majestic views of the mountain ranges like; Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, etc during the trek.
Trek fact
Situated in the Langtang region of Nepal, Tamang Heritage Trek as the name suggests is a trail filled with ethnic Tamang villages. This Heritage trek is one of the remote parts of the region close to the Tibet border “Kerong”. You can witness some of the most beautiful scenery of the Langtang mountain range along with diverse landscapes and ecosystems during the trek. The trek gives deep insight into the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Tamang community which are connected with Tibetan roots.