Treks in Nepal has grabbed the attention of thousands of trek lovers who seek to explore the nature. Every year a huge number of trekkers visit Nepal and garner the best trekking experience in the Himalayas. Knowing at least 12 best treks in Nepal will allow you to pick your favorite trekking destination to enjoy your holiday.
Known as the home for several highest peaks like Mt. Everest, Makalu, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna range, and many more, Nepal is gaining popularity as one of the best destinations for adventure trekking.
Tourism in Nepal is massively reinforced by the adventurous trekking journeys. Each trekking in Nepal has unique trekking trails. Diverse geography and culture makes trekking in Nepal more alluring. Trekkers get to experience the warm hospitality of local people and trekking in Nepal is the best opportunity to explore the distinct cultures of different ethnic groups of people.
People are often curious about the various trekking destinations in Nepal. Some trekking destinations are quite famous, some are slowly gaining popularity while some are still unknown to the world. There are countless trekking destinations in Nepal but here are 12 best treks in Nepal, in no particular order, that you should have in your bucket list.
1) Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp trek is located in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Everest Base Camp trek, famous as EBC, is one of the oldest and incredible classic treks in Nepal. Everest Base Camp is one of the best treks in Nepal to have a closer glimpse of the world’s highest mountain Everest aka Sagarmatha.
Mount Everest carves its name at the top in the list of world’s highest mountain in the world. The number of trekkers visiting Everest Base Camp is the highest compared to other treks in Nepal. Trekkers are fascinated with the unmatched beauty of Mount Everest.
The trekking trails of Everest Base Camp trek are not offbeat but hiring an experienced guide is recommended. The guide will communicate through problematic situations and make your journey less risky. Porters will carry your heavy bags during trek making you easy to walk hours long uphills, so hiring a porter is recommended.
The trek can be completed with an average level of physical fitness within 13-15 days. During the best time of the year, you can achieve a spectacular view of high peaks, tranquil villages, and dense rhododendron forest. It will be convenient to cross the remarkable Khumbu glacier during Spring and Autumn.
The Everest Base Camp trek commences with an exotic direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From Lukla, our trekking to Everest Base Camp officially starts. Our final trekking destination during Everest Base Camp is Kalapatthar viewpoint (5,643m) which is located at the base of Mount Everest.
The view of Mount Everest from Kalapatthar is incredibly beautiful. Trekkers get up early in the morning to witness Everest Base Camp sunrise which is one of the highlights of Everest Base Camp trek.
2) Everest Chola Pass Trek
Everest Chola Pass Trek acquires a different trekking trail than the classic Everest Base Camp Trek. Everest Chola Pass Trek encompasses Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass. Chola Pass, situated at a height of 5,420m, is regarded as the highest Pass in the Everest region.
Everest Chola Pass Trek is a massive 19 days trek in the Everest region of Nepal. Everest Chola Pass Trek is tough because the trekking trails are rough and rocky. To accomplish this trek, trekkers should visit Everest Chola Pass at the best time of the year. Everest Cholas Pass trek is favorable during Spring and Autumn.
Following the same trekking route as the classic Everest Base Camp that leads to Kalapatthar, crossing Kalapatthar, we move ahead to reach Chola Pass. This trek offers a stunning view of some of the high peaks of the Khumbu region such as Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho Oyo, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Gokyo Ri.
The major attraction of Everest Chola Pass trek is the visual of the serene Gokyo Lake. Gokyo Lake sits at an altitude above 4,700m. At the lap of Mt. Cho Oyo resides the longest glacier in the world called Ngozumpa glacier. It has a massive length of around 36km.
Everest Chola Pass trek takes place within the Sagarmatha National Park. The trekkers require two types of permits to be eligible for Everest Chola Pass trek. One is the Sagarmatha National Park permit which you can easily acquire from Namche Bazaar. Another is the TIMS permit which you can easily have access in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
3) Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the amazing trekking in Nepal popular among youths and trek lovers. If you are looking for a short trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is suitable for you.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an easy trek that is achievable by anyone with an average level of physical fitness. Youths mostly visit Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek during snowfall to play with snow. The view of thick snow blanket covering the villages of Annapurna region is loved by the trekkers.
It is a preferred holiday destination of travelers who want to view the majestic Mountain ranges including Annapurna, Huinchuli, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Mardi Himal within a short period.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is attainable within 5-7 days. Besides the picturesque view of mountain ranges, the major attraction of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the Ghandruk village. Ghandruk village is a beautiful village blessed with amazing landscape. It is located at an altitude of 2,012m and is the residence of mostly Gurung and Magar people.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an amazing opportunity to explore the Ghandruk village, Ulleri village, and Ghorepani village. Behold the 3,300 staircases that lead to Ulleri village. Stepping 3,300 staircases is going to be the most exciting part of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Tek is favorable in all the 12 months but the trekkers mostly visit Ghorepani Poon Hill trek during spring and autumn. Trekkers require ACAP and TIMS card to go for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
There are nice hotels and guesthouses for accommodation. You can choose your accommodation according to your budget. You can find internet facilities, charging facilities, hot water, spacious bedrooms with attached bathrooms in Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
4) Annapurna Base Camp Trek
One of the popular trekkings in Nepal is Annapurna Base Camp trek. Annapurna Base Camp trek is located in the beautiful Annapurna region of Nepal. Annapurna Base Camp trek is designed in such a way that it can be completed either as a short trek or long trek. Annapurna Base Camp Short trek completes within 7 days whereas Annapurna Base Camp long trek requires around 12 days.
Annapurna Base Camp is located at a maximum elevation of 4,130m. This trek is categorized as a moderate level trek as it only requires an average level of physical fitness and can be completed by first-timers too. The best time to conquer Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered during Spring and Autumn in March-May & September-December.
Annapurna Base Camp lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area so trekkers require two permits to be able to trek within the conservated area. One is Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and another is TIMS permit.
The trekking trails of Annapurna Base Camp encompasses the mesmerizing Ghandruk village which settles at an altitude of 2,012m. Ghandruk village has a distinct yet stunning landscape and the view of mountains like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and other high peaks is also clearly visible from Ghandruk village.
Gurung and Magar’s people have a thick settlement in the Annapurna region giving you the best opportunity to explore their lifestyle with a closer glimpse. Solo trekkers might have queries about Annapurna base camp solo trekking. Annapurna base camp solo trekking is a good way to be close to nature but hiring an experienced guide is highly recommended to tackle problematic situations during the trek.
5) Annapurna circuit trek
Trekkers love to venture into one of the breathtaking trekking in Nepal and that is Annapurna Circuit Trek. Annapurna circuit trek is a journey to the lap of Annapurna mountain by following a slightly different trekking trail than Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Annapurna Circuit Trek kicks off from Lamjung and encompasses Ghorepani, Marsyangdi valley, Manang village, and Muktinath region during the trek. The major highlight of Annapurna Circuit is the dangerous Thorong La Pass. Crossing Thorong La Pass at an altitude of 5,416m is thrilling for many trekkers. It is the highest point reached in the Annapurna circuit trek.
This trek can be categorized as a moderately difficult trek as this trek requires some level of stamina and strength to accomplish it. It is not recommended to beginners as they may face difficulties while crossing Thorong La Pass.
Annapurna Circuit trek is a long trek that requires about 21 days to complete. Annapurna Circuit trek promises a spectacular mountain view of highest peaks like Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho peak, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre.
Annapurna Circuit trek takes place in the Annapurna Conservation Area so it requires two permits for trekkers. One is the ACAP permit and another is the TIMS permit. The trekking trails of Annapurna circuit trek encompasses several suspension bridges, narrow rivers, dense rhododendron forest, bamboo forest, continuously accompanied by the astonishing views of mountains in the vicinity.
Annapurna circuit trek can be visited during spring and autumn which are regarded as the best time to go to Annapurna circuit trek. During the months of March-May, trekking will be favored by the clear weather. During the months of September-December, frequent rain will keep the weather moist and slight snowfall can be encountered.
6) Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang resides at the border of Nepal and Tibet. Both Nepali and Tibetan influence can be seen in the lifestyle of the local people of Upper Mustang. Upper mustang trek is located in Mustang region. The maximum elevation attained in Upper Mustang trek is 3,800m. Upper Mustang Trek can be categorized as moderately difficult trek so it requires some level of physical fitness which can be acquired with few months of fitness training.
Upper Mustang appears like a deserted land with not much greenery around. You will mostly see barren fields and rivers. Kali Gandaki, known as the deepest gorge in the world, is one of the stunning attractions among trekkers in the Upper Mustang Trek. The trekking trail also encompasses a long narrow suspension bridge which takes you to Dargarjong.
Trekking in Upper Mustang starts from Jomsom. Jomsom is a beautiful valley in the mountainous region of Nepal which is a major tourist attraction. The unconventional trekking trail of Upper Mustang trek takes probably 17 days to accomplish. There is a settlement of Thakali people in majority.
Muktinath, which is also listed as UNESCO World Heritage site, is a sacred temple for both Hindu and Buddhist. Located at a high altitude of 3,710m, Muktinath lies in the zenith of Thorong La Mountain Pass. There is a belief among the pilgrims of Muktinath that bathing in the freezing water at Muktinath is said to clear the sins.
The dry terrains of Upper Mustang are also popular for mountain biking. Mountain biking will also take around 17 days to complete if you follow the designed route. Another adventure sport, rock climbing is also available in Upper Mustang. Climbing those huge barren hills is an adventure in itself.
7) Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu circuit trek is located in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It is a remote trek in the isolated region at high altitude. Manaslu is positioned eighth in the list of world’s highest mountains with a stunning height of 8,163m.
Manaslu circuit trek belongs in the list of difficult trekkings in Nepal. The trekking trails of Manaslu circuit trek is long, circular, and rough. Though the trekking trails of Manaslu circuit trek is off-beaten, you won’t be able to ignore the enchanting beautiful rhododendron forest, thrilling suspension bridges, beautiful waterfalls, and the distinct geographic landscape view.
It is a long trek to the lap of the Mount Manaslu which takes around 15-17 days to complete. To accomplish the Manaslu circuit trek, trekkers must acquire a high level of physical health. Trekkers should not have a breathing problem and should have a capacity of walking for hours.
Manaslu circuit trek is highly recommended to experienced trekkers who have accomplished moderate treks. Accomplishing this type of trek requires trekking experience. Manaslu circuit trek is not recommended to beginners.
One of the major attractions of the Manaslu circuit trek among the adventure lovers is the dramatic Larkya Pass (5,140m). Besides classic Manaslu circuit trek, Manaslu circuit trek with Tsum valley is also gaining popularity. Nepal Manaslu circuit trek via Tsum valley wasn’t into existence till 2008. The pristine village of Tsum is located at a high altitude where the local people called ‘Tsumbas’ follow the Tibetan culture of lifestyle.
Since this trek is in an isolated area and due to its difficulty level, the group size mandatorily requires at least two trekkers. The essential permits required for Manaslu circuit trek are ACAP, MCAP, and MRAP.
8) Langtang valley trek
Langtang valley trek is a remote area trekking destination in Nepal. Langtang valley trek is situated in the isolated region of Langtang in Nepal. There are various trekkings in Nepal with various levels of difficulties and Langtang valley trek can be classified as a moderate trek.
Synonymous as “Valley of Glaciers”, Langtang valley trek is a classic trek that touches the Nepal-Tibet border. It is a short trek which can be completed within 8-12 days. Langtang valley is barren land with less greenery. The trekking trails of Langtang valley trek is rocky and steep. So Langtang valley trek demands some level of physical strength.
Langtang valley trek is a high altitude trek in which trekkers hike to a maximum elevation of almost 5,000m. At such high altitude, trekkers are prone to altitude sickness. Trekkers should be careful of their health while choosing Langtang valley trek.
The highlight of Langtang valley trek is Tserko Ri viewpoint (4,984m) from where we get a 360-degree Himalayan view from the top. Tserko Ri is probably the best place to view the majestic mountains Dorje Lakpa (6,990 m), Langtang -II (7,227 m), Langtang Lirung (7,200 m), and Ganesh Himal (7,429 m).
Another highlight of Langtang valley trek can be considered as Kyanjin viewpoint (4,600m). Delve into the sea of colorful prayer flags that will be flattering as a strong wind blows up there. You can observe the panoramic view of the mountain range, accompanied by the picturesque view of the “Valley of Glaciers”.
Trekkers should acquire two permits: Langtang National Park Fee and TIMS card. There are various Langtang treks in Nepal that you can explore such as Helambu valley trekking, Langtang Gosaikunda trek, and Tamang Heritage Trail.
9) Everest Gokyo Ri Trek
Everest Gokyo Ri trek is a challenging trek in the Everest region compared to the classic Everest Base Camp trek. Everest Gokyo Ri trek is one of the high altitude trekking in Nepal that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Gokyo valley is slowly gaining popularity as an amazing trekking destination in Nepal due to its unmatched beauty. Everest Gokyo Ri trek is a difficult trek that requires almost 12-15 days to complete. The trekking trails of Everest Gokyo Ri trek is slightly rough so trekkers should be physically capable of trekking those rocky paths.
Expect cold temperature at high altitudes. So avoid visiting Everest Gokyo Ri trek during winter and monsoon. Everest Gokyo Ri trek is not recommended to beginners as it is a difficult high altitude trek that elevates up to 5,483m. There is a high possibility of suffering from altitude sickness.
Gokyo Ri valley is a fantastic viewpoint to observe the scenic view of Mount Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyu and the poised Gokyo Lake. If you are lucky, you might encounter snowfall. The view of snowfall over the Gokyo Lake will be a treat to your eyes.
Everest Gokyo Ri trek also offers a fabulous view of Khumbu glacier as well as Ngozumpa glacier. The trekking trail of Everest Gokyo Ri trek is basically the trekking trails of Everest Base Camp that diverts from Namche Bazaar and heads towards Machherma (4,470m). The path then stretches up to Gokyo valley and Gokyo Ri viewpoint.
10) Everest Panorama Trek
Everest Panorama Trek is the best trekking destination in Nepal if you want to view Mount Everest with a closer glimpse. Everest Panorama trekking takes place in the Everest region.
You can have a spectacular panoramic view of Mount Everest by trekking for 8-10 days. It is a short trek and is easily attainable. Solo trekkers are highly recommended for Everest Panorama trek. Group trekkers can spend their short holidays with nature by choosing Everest Panorama Trek.
Everest Panorama trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Then, trek up to Phakding and stretch up to Namche Bazaar where you will stay for acclimatization. Then, we cover a massive trekking distance in 6-7 hours to reach Tengboche which is located at an altitude of 3,860m.
You can visit a famous Tengboche monastery there which is architecturally rich from inside and out. Explore the monastery thoroughly and then trek up to Monjo. The trekking trail will be filled with exciting suspension bridges, flora and fauna, rivers and gorges, and scenic view of the distinct landscape. So you will not be bored walking.
Don’t forget to explore Sherpa village as there is a thick settlement of Sherpa people at Everest region. Sherpa people have been successfully preserving their culture and tradition for many years and you can experience them first-hand while you are there.
There will be several teahouses and guesthouses for accommodation where you will be offered meals too. Try some ethnic foods and explore their traditional kitchen as well. Enjoy the cultural dances of Sherpa people. You can learn some moves of Sherpa dance with them.
11) Langtang Gosainkunda trek
Langtang Gosainkunda trek is a long trek to the holy Gosainkunda lake. Langtang Gosainkunda trek is a remote area trek located in the northern part of Nepal. Langtang Gosainkunda trek takes place within the Langtang National Park so trekkers should acquire Langtang National park Fee and TIMS card to trek in his area.
Langtang Gosainkunda can be classified as a difficult trek which needs 14-16 days to complete the trek. It is a high altitude trek in an isolated area in the Langtang region of Nepal. There is a sacred lake named Gosainkunda which is situated at an elevation of 4,380m.
It is a difficult trek that requires a high level of physical fitness. First-timers might be able to conquer the trek but it’s going to be difficult. Experienced trekkers are highly recommended for this Langtang Gosainkunda trek as this trek offers an irresistible scenic view of Gosainkunda lake.
Gosainkunda Lake is considered as a holy lake by Hindu pilgrims. There exists a belief among the pilgrims that Lord Bishnu is resting deep below inside the Gosainkunda Lake and dipping in the Gosainkunda Lake purifies our soul and clears all our sins. You can also visit some lakes like Bhairabkunda, Nagkunda, Saraswatikunda, and Suryakunda that resides nearby Gosainkunda.
This courageous trek starts from Syabrubesi. The trek continues to Langtang valley (3,500m). We will acclimatize at Kyanjing valley then, in a few days, we will reach Gosainkunda Lake.
One of the highlights of Langtang Gosainkunda trek is the Laurebina Pass which elevates to a height of 4600m. The view of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Ganesh, and Mt. Langtang from Laurebina Pass is spectacular.
12) Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is a trek to the zenith of majestic Mardi Himal. Avid trekkers who are looking for short treks in Nepal are highly recommended to go for Mardi Himal trek. Mardi Himal trek lies in the Annapurna region of Nepal.
Mardi Himal trek can be completed within 5-7 days without much toil. Mardi Himal Solo trekking is also gaining attraction these days. Hire a guide, obtain a Mardi Himal Trek route map and you are ready to go on solo trekking to Mardi Base Camp.
Mardi Himal Trek offers a fantastic view of some snow-capped mountains like Mount Annapurna South, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal and Mt. Hiunchuli. The trekking trails of Mardi Himal trek is mostly elevated uphill and we are meant to reach a maximum altitude of 4,500m.
The wonderful journey to a height of 4,500m includes the view of distinct flora and fauna, dense rhododendron forest, and Gurung villages. The best time to visit Mardi Himal trek is during March-May & September-November. Spring and Autumn are the ideal seasons for Mardi Himal Trek.
Mardi Himal trek starts from Kande to Deurali. The trek from Deurali stretches up to Low Camp at an altitude of 3,150m. From Low camp, trekkers will climb up to a height of 3,700m to reach the High camp and finally, we reach Mardi Base Camp from where we can get a picturesque view of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hunchuli.
You don’t have to worry about accommodation as this region is filled with nice and comfortable teahouses and guesthouses. You can find them providing typical Nepali meals and facilities like internet, charging, hot water, etc.
