Top 10 Best Treks in Nepal

11

May

Top 10 Best Treks in Nepal

 

1: Everest Base Camp Trek

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Himalayas lies Everest Base Camp, a destination that beckons adventurers from around the globe. The trek to Everest Base Camp is not just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual and cultural odyssey that leaves a lasting impression on all who undertake it. This article will guide you through the experience, from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the awe-inspiring heights of the world’s highest mountain.Everest Base Camp Trek, one of the grandest treks in the world, is an unparalleled opportunity to trek in the Himalayas where Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay set off on their epic journey in 1953.

 

Acclimatization and a cultural trek into the Sherpa heartland of the Khumbu Valley are also included in a trip. You can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Himalayan range near the Khumbu region with four of the world’s six tallest peaks of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Trekking in the Himalayan range not only offers you a glimpse into the life of world-famous climbers, the Sherpas, it further provides an immense opportunity to explore the highest Buddhist monasteries and can survey the world heritage site of the Sagarmatha National Park, which hosts a variety of Himalayan flora and fauna.

 

The trek to Everest Base Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will challenge you physically and mentally, but the rewards are beyond measure. From the stunning landscapes to the rich culture and warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, every moment of the journey is a reminder of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. So lace up your boots, pack your bags, and embark on an adventure that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

 

Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to hotel (1350m)

Day 2 : Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2,610m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Day 3 : Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,445m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 4 : Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3,445m) Hike to Everest View hotel Duration: 3-4 hours.

Day 5 : Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 6 : Trek to Dingboche (4,360m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Day 7 : Acclimatization at Dingboche (4,360m) Hike to chhukung Duration: 4-5 hours.

Day 8 : Trek to Lobuche (4,930m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 9 : Trek to Gorakshep (5160m) & to Everest Base Camp (5360m) – return to Gorakshep. Duration: 7-8 hours.

Day 10 : Trek to Kalapathar (5,550m) & return to Pheriche (4,280m) Duration: 7-8 hours.

Day 11 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,500m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 12 : Trek back to Lukla (2,860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 13 : Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu Duration: 30 minutes flight.

Day 14 : Departure home from Kathmandu Airport.

 

2. Annapurna Circuit:

One of the most popular treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit offers a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to high mountain passes, with stunning views of the Annapurna range.

The Annapurna Circuit is a renowned trekking route in the Annapurna mountain range of central Nepal. It’s considered one of the most beautiful treks in the world, offering a diverse range of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to alpine meadows and high desert landscapes. The trek typically takes about 15 to 20 days to complete, depending on the starting and ending points chosen.

 

Along the way, trekkers are treated to stunning views of several Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and, of course, Annapurna I, which stands at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet) and is the 10th highest mountain in the world. The trail also passes through charming villages inhabited by a mix of different ethnic groups, including Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali people, offering a rich cultural experience.

 

One of the highlights of the trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass, which sits at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) and is one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The pass is challenging due to its altitude and the potential for adverse weather conditions, but the sense of achievement upon reaching the top is unparalleled.

 

In recent years, road construction has reached many parts of the Annapurna Circuit, which has altered the trekking experience for some. However, efforts are being made to preserve the natural and cultural integrity of the route. As such, it remains a popular choice for trekkers looking for a challenging and rewarding adventure in the Himalayas.

 

Itinerary

Day 01  Arrival to Kathmandu hotel check-in
  Day o2  Drive to chame 2670m by jeep 9 Hrs
  Day o3  Trek to Pisang 3200m 6 Hrs
  Day 04  Trek to Manang 3540m 7 Hrs
  Day 05  Acclimatize at Manang
  Day 06  Trek to Yak-kharka 4030m 5 Hrs
  Day 07  Trek to high-camp 4540m 6 Hrs
  Day 08  Trek to Muktinath 3710m via thorong-la pass 5416m 8 Hrs
  Day 09  Drive to Jomsom 2743m 10 Hrs
  Day 10  Jomsom to Pokhara via flight
  Day 11  Pokhara sightseeing
  Day 12  Pokhara to Kathmandu 25 min-departure

 

3. Langtang Valley Trek:

This trek offers a less crowded experience compared to the Everest and Annapurna regions, with beautiful landscapes, Tibetan-influenced culture, and close-up views of the Langtang range.

The Langtang Valley Trek is another popular trekking route in Nepal, located to the north of Kathmandu near the Tibetan border. This trek is known for its stunning mountain scenery, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. The Langtang region is home to the Langtang National Park, which is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive red panda.

The trek typically takes about 7 to 10 days to complete, depending on the starting and ending points chosen. The trail takes you through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, with the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through several Tamang villages, where you can experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Tamang people, who are of Tibetan descent.

One of the highlights of the Langtang Valley Trek is the opportunity to climb Kyanjin Ri, a 4,773-meter (15,659-foot) peak that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters/23,711 feet) and Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters/24,350 feet).

The Langtang region was severely affected by the 2015 earthquake, and while much of the infrastructure has been rebuilt, the trekking trails have largely remained intact. Trekking in the Langtang Valley not only offers a breathtaking adventure but also helps support the local communities in their recovery efforts.

Itinerary;

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu with transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Drive to Syabrubesi by sharing jeep 1,503 m -07 hours
Day 03: Trek from Syabrubensi to Lama Hotel 2,450 m – 06/07 hours
Day 04: Trek From Lama Hotel to Langtang Village 3,430 m – 07 hours
Day 05: Trek from Langtang village to Kyanjin Gompa 3,830 m – 04 hours
Day 06: Optional Hike to Tserkuri Viewpoint (4984m) Explore the Langtang Himalayas with Tibetan Himalayas Ranges
Day 07: Trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel 2,450 m – 07 hours
Day 08: Trek from Lama hotel to Syabrubesi – 06 hours
Day 09: Drive to Kathmandu by local sharing jeep and transfer to hotel – 07 hours
Day 10: Final departure to homeward bound or to respective destinations.

 

 

4; Manaslu Circuit Trek

A remote trek that circles the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu, offering pristine mountain scenery, rich cultural experiences, and challenging high passes.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and challenging trekking route in Nepal that circumnavigates Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. This trek offers a less crowded alternative to the Annapurna Circuit and takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude alpine meadows.

 

The trek typically takes about 14 to 18 days to complete, depending on the starting and ending points chosen. The trail passes through remote villages inhabited by the Gurung and Tibetan ethnic groups, offering a unique cultural experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the ancient Buddhist monasteries that dot the region, such as the famous Mu Gompa.

One of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass, which sits at an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet) and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The pass is challenging due to its altitude and the steep ascent and descent, but the breathtaking views make it well worth the effort.

The Manaslu region was also affected by the 2015 earthquake, but much of the infrastructure has been rebuilt, and the trekking trails are in good condition. Trekking in the Manaslu region offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, with fewer trekkers and a sense of wilderness that is hard to find on more popular routes.

 

itineary;

Day 01: Reach Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (1340m) – 09 hours
Day 03: Trek to Jagat 1,410m – 07 hours
Day 04: Trek to Dyang 1,800 m – 07 hours
Day 05: Trek to Namrung 2660 m – 07 hours
Day 06: Trek to Samagaon 3,530 m – 06 hours
Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon ( Hike to Birendra Lake or Tibet Border)
Day 08: Trek to Samdo 3,860 m – 04 hours
Day 09: Trek to Dharmasala / Larkya La Phedi 4,460 m – 04 hours
Day 10: Cross Larkya la 5,106m and decent to Bimthang 3,720 m – 08 hours
Day 11: Trek to Gho Village 2,560 m – 05 hours
Day 12: Trek to Dharapani 1,860 m – 04 hours
Day 13: Drive back to Kathmandu via Bensisahar – 09 hours
Day 14: International departure for homeward bound.

 

 

5; Upper Mustang Trek

 

This trek takes you to the ancient kingdom of Mustang, a remote and culturally rich region with Tibetan Buddhist influences, unique desert landscapes, and cave dwellings.

The Upper Mustang Trek is a fascinating journey into the hidden world of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang, also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal. This trek takes you to the remote region of Mustang, nestled between Nepal and Tibet, offering a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and traditional Tibetan culture.

The trek typically takes about 10 to 14 days to complete, depending on the starting and ending points chosen. The trail takes you through barren, windswept valleys, eroded canyons, and majestic rock formations, with the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you’ll visit ancient villages such as Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Mustang, which is home to the historic King’s Palace and several beautiful monasteries.

One of the highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek is the opportunity to explore the rich Buddhist culture of the region. You’ll have the chance to visit ancient monasteries, including the 15th-century Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Gompa, which are adorned with beautiful frescoes and statues. The region is also known for its vibrant local festivals, where you can witness traditional dances and rituals.

The Upper Mustang region was opened to foreigners in 1992, but access is still restricted, and a special permit is required to enter. This has helped preserve the region’s unique culture and environment, making it a truly special destination for trekking enthusiasts looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Itineary:

Day 1; Welcome to Kathmandu!
Day 2 ; Explore Kathmandu
Day 3; Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, Trek to Kagbeni 2,847 m
Day 4 ;Trek from Kagbeni to Chele 3,050 m 5-6 hours
Day 5 ;Trek from Chele to Zhaite 3,730 m 7-8 hours
Day 6; Trek from Zhaite to Charang via Dhakmnar and Lo Gekar 3,575 m 5-6 hours
Day 7 ;Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (explore the ancient city) 3,820 m 5-6 hours
Day 8 ;Stay in Lo Manthang (Namgyal Gompa and Thinggar Valley) 3,780 m (rest day)
Day 9 ;Stay in Lo Manthang (the Chosar Valley) 3,780 m (rest day)
Day 10; Trek from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar via Lo Gekar 3,730 m 6-7 hours
Day 11 ;Trek from Dhakmar to Geling 3,570 m 4-5 hours
Day 12 ;Trek from Geling to Chuksang 2,950 m 7-8 hours
Day 13 ;Trek from Chuksang to Jomsom 2,750 m 5-6 hours
Day 14 ;Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara 853 m (25-minute flight)
Day 15 ;Depart Kathmandu

 

 

 

6; Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It’s known for its stunning mountain scenery, especially at sunrise when the peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna are bathed in golden light. The trek usually takes around 4-5 days and is relatively easy, making it suitable for trekkers of all levels of experience. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages, lush rhododendron forests, and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas.

 

Poon Hill, the highest point of the trek at 3,210 meters, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s a trek that combines natural beauty with cultural experiences, as you’ll have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their way of life.

 

ITINERARY

Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu & transfer to hotel (1350m)

Day 2 : Drive to Pokhara (850m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 3 : Pokhara to Tikhedhunga (1,480m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 4 : Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,750m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 5 : Ghorepani to Poon Hill viewpoint (3210m) & to Tadapani (2710m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 6 : Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (2,012m) Duration: 3-4 hours.

Day 7 : Ghandruk to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 8 : Drive back to Kathmandu (1,350) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 9 : International departure from Kathmandu Airport

 

 

 

7: Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek

The Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek is a lesser-known trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience compared to the more popular routes in the region. The trek usually takes around 8-12 days, depending on the itinerary and side trips taken along the way.

The trek starts from Nayapul and passes through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and dense rhododendron forests. The highlight of the trek is the Khopra Ridge, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

From Khopra Ridge, trekkers can also opt to hike to Khayer Lake, a sacred lake located at an altitude of about 4,500 meters. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers a peaceful and serene setting for trekkers to enjoy.

Overall, the Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek is a great option for those looking for a less crowded trekking experience in the Annapurna region, while still being able to enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery and unique cultural experiences.

 

ITINERARY

Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu & transfer to hotel (1,350m)

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 3 : Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070m) & trek to Purna Gaun (1,780m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 4 : Trek from Purna Gaun to Lespar Village (2,060m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 5 : Trek from Lespar to Nangi Village (2,260m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 6 : Trek from Nangi Village to Mohare Danda (3,300m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 7 : Trek from Mohare Danda to Swanta Village (2,200m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 8 : Trek from Swanta to Chhsitibang (3,020m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 9 : Trek from Chhsitibang to Khopra Danda (3,660m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 10 : Khopra Danda (Ridge 3660m) to Dobato (3,350m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 11 : Trek from Dobato (3350m) to Ghandruk (2,012m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 12 : Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul then drive to Pokhara; Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 13 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 14 : International departure from Kathmandu Airpor

 

 

 

8: Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range, including peaks like Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.

 

The trek usually starts from Kande or Phedi, near Pokhara, and takes around 5-7 days to complete. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, charming villages, and high alpine pastures. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp, located at an altitude of about 4,500 meters, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. It’s a great alternative to the more crowded trekking routes in the Annapurna region, offering a quieter and more peaceful experience in the mountains.

ITINERARY

Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu & transfer to hotel (1,350m)

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 3 : Drive from Pokhara Phedi & trek to Dhampus (1,600m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 4 : Trek from Dhampus to Forest Camp (2,480m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 5 : Trek from Forest Camp to Mardi Himal Low camp (3,150m) Duration: 3-4 hours.

Day 6 : Trek from Low Camp to Mardi Himal High Camp (3,580m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 7 : Hike to Mardi Himal base Camp (4,500m) & trek Low camp (3,150m) Duration: 7-8 hours.

Day 8 : Trek to Siding Village (1,280m) & drive to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 9 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 10 : International departure from Kathmandu Airport

 

 

9: Gokyo Lakes Trek:

Located in the Everest region, this trek offers stunning views of the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, as well as the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.

The Gokyo Valley Trek is a beautiful and less crowded trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It’s known for its stunning glacial lakes, particularly the emerald-colored Gokyo Lake, which is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world.

 

The trek usually takes around 12-14 days to complete and starts from Lukla, like the Everest Base Camp Trek, but diverges towards the Gokyo Valley. Along the way, trekkers pass through Sherpa villages, lush forests, and high alpine meadows. The highlight of the trek is the ascent of Gokyo Ri, a peak overlooking the Gokyo Valley that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among other peaks.

The Gokyo Valley Trek is considered a moderate to strenuous trek, as it involves some steep ascents and high altitude trekking. However, it’s a great alternative to the more popular Everest Base Camp Trek, offering equally stunning views and a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

 

ITINERARY

Day 1 : Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Guided Sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley.

Day 3 : Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2610m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Day 4 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m) Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 5 : Rest day at Namche Bazaar. (Hike to Everest View hotel) Duration: 3-4 hours

Day 6 : Trek to Dole (4190m) Duration: 5- 6 hours.

Day 7 : Trek to Machhermo (4470m) Duration: 3-4 hours.

Day 8 : Trek to Gokyo (4790m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Day 9 : Trek to Gokyo Ri (5357m) and on to Machhermo (4470m) Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 10 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 11 : Trek to Lukla (2,860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 12 : Fly back to Kathmandu (Duration: 30 minutes flight)

Day 13 : Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.

 

 

 

10. EVEREST THREE HIGH PASSES TREK

 

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most challenging and adventurous trekking routes in the Everest region of Nepal. As the name suggests, the trek involves crossing three high passes: Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters), Cho La Pass (5,420 meters), and Renjo La Pass (5,340 meters), along with visits to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

The trek usually takes around 16-20 days to complete and is suitable for experienced trekkers with a high level of fitness. It offers stunning views of the Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and other peaks, as well as the opportunity to explore remote valleys, high alpine passes, and Sherpa villages.

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is a challenging adventure that requires proper acclimatization and preparation. However, it’s a rewarding experience for those who are up for the challenge, offering a unique perspective of the Everest region and its majestic mountains.

 

We steep up all the way to Dingboche 4410 m for Kongma-La Pass 5535 m via Tengboche 3860 m. Khongma-La pass gives a lifetime memories of panoramic views of the spectacular Himalayas. Kongma-La Pass is the highest pass among these three passes with an altitude of 5535 m. From Dingboche, we again ascend up and after crossing Khongma-la via High Camp we reach to Lobuche 4910 m. From Lobuche, we continue our trek to Gorekshep situated at the height of 5140 m. Gorekshep is a junction point to Kalapathar and Everest Base camp. For the close and unbeatable view of Mt. Everest we take our way to Kalapathar. Later we descend through the same route to Gorekshep and from Gorekshep we take the ascending trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing the trek, we climb up toward The Everest Base Camp 5365m from where we can see the hazardous route of Everest i.e. Khumbu Icefall by which brave climbers pass through.

 

itineary:

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

Day 2 : Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2850m) and trek to Phakding (2610m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Day 3 : Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 4 : Rest day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization.

Day 5 : Trek from Namche(3440m) to Tengboche (3,867m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 6 : Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,260m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Day 7 : Rest day at Dingboche for acclimatization.

Day 8 : Trek from Dingboche to Chukhung (4,750m) Duration: 2-3 hours.

Day 9 : Trek from Chukhung to Kongoma-la 5,535m and to Lobuche (4,928m) Duration 7-9 hours.

Day 10 : Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5170m) & Everest Base Camp (5364m) & return to Gorakshep Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 11 : Trek from Gorakshep to Kalapatther (5643m) & then to Dzongla (4830m) Duration 6-7 hours.

Day 12 : Trek from Dzongla to Cho-la pass (5367m) & down to Thangnak (4750m) Duration: 7-9 hours.

Day 13 : Trek from Thangnak to Gokyo (4,750m) Duration: 3-4 hours.

Day 14 : Gokyo rest & visit the fifth lake then climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 15 : Trek from Gokyo to Renjo-La Pass (5360m) & descend to Marlung or Thame (4210m/3880m) Duration 7-9 hours.

Day 16 : Trek from Thame /Marlung to Monjo (2860m) via Namche Bazaar (3,440m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Day 17 : Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2,860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Day 18 : Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to respective hotels

Day 19 : International departure & homeward bound.

 

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