Nepal is a beautiful country which offers incredible experience with its stunning landscapes , rich culture and majestic mountains. With so many amazing places to Trek , choosing the perfect trekking destination can be quite challenging. To help you with deciding , in this blog there are some essential factors which you need to consider before embarking to your dream destination.
1. Determine your fitness and Experience level:
Beginners Trek
If you’re new to trekking , Nepal has some fantastic option to offer which are perfect to the beginners. These trek are shorter ,less challenging and most importantly offers the stunning scenery without experience or high level of fitness.
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is an ideal trek for those who are beginners and have very short time ,the trek usually takes 4-5 days , making it short trek. It involves gentle ascents and descents which are comfortable for mst of the people, including families and those who are moderately fit.
Starting from the lakeside from Pokhara , the journey begins with a scenic drive to the Nayapool where the trekking path unfolds the diverse landscapes, villages and terraced fields . As you ascend climbing up stone steps and passing through the forest with colourful flowers. You’ll spend the cozy night in villages like tikhedhunga and ghorpanin where you will be amazed with the mountain view . One of the main attractions of the trek is the sunrise from the poon hill 3210m . You can witness the breathtaking view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri bathed in golden lights. It’s a magical sight that you’ll remember forever .
After enjoying the sunrise, you’ll trek through the forest to Tadapani and then Ghandruk, a village known for Gurung people where you will experience the culture and hospitality before heading back to Pokhara.
- Location : Annapurna region
- Duration: 4-5 days.
- Difficulty : Moderate , suitable for beginners with basic fitness.
- Max altitude : 3210 m( 10,531 ft)
Langtang Valley Trek , located in the northern part of Nepal is a perfect choice for beginners who want to trek in Nepal. This trek usually takes 7-8 days. However you can customized it according to your time ., starting from Syabrubesi , which is accessible by bus or jeep from Kathmandu. The trails are well-marked and generally manageable . though it can be rocky and steep in some sections. The highest point of the trek is Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870m (12,697 ft) offering the stunning views of Langtang Lirung , Langshisha Ri and Gangchempo. Along the way , trekkers will pass through the lush forest , meadows and trekkers will also have the chance to see the red panda, monkey and various types of birds.
The best season for the trek is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the skies are clear.Highlights of the trek include exploring Kyanjin Gompa , sampling local cheese and optional day hikes to Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri for even higher views.
- Location : Langtang region
- Duration : 7-8 days
- Difficulty : Moderate , suitable for beginners
- Maximum altitude : 3,870m (12,697 ft)
The trek which is close to the Kathmandu valley is also another perfect beginner trek . The trek spans for like 5-6 days,starting from Sundarijal where the trail is well-maintained making it accessible for those with basic fitness level. The highest point on the trek is Tharepati 3,650M (11,975 Ft) , offering stunning views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges The terrain varies from Lush green forest and terraced fields to very beautiful sherpa and tamang village ..
As per best season like every other trek Spring and Autumn are considered as the best whereas the trek is accessible for the whole year . Spring ( March to May ) and Autumn ( September to November) , when the weather is mild and the skies are clear allowing for the beat mountain views . Winter ( December to February ) , perfect for those who can handle the closer temperature and want to avoid the crowds. Monsoon season ( June to August ) brings heavy rain and slippery trails so we don’t recommend this season. Highlight of the trek include a scenic village of Tarkeghyang , visiting ancient monasteries and interacting with local Sherpa and Tamang communities.
- Duration : 5-6 days
- Highest point : 3,650 m (11,975 ft)
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Starting point : Sundarijal
Moderate Treks:
Nepal, known for its stunning landscapes and majestic mountains , offers the trekking routes with various levels of difficulty . Moderate treks are perfect for those who have some trekking experience and wish to explore the country’s beauty undergoing extreme physical challenges .
Moderate treks in Nepal balance adventure and comfort , allowing trekkers to enjoy the journey and the destination.
The Annapurna Base Camp ( ABC ) trek is one of the most popular moderate treks in Nepal, offering a blend of both cultural and natural experiences. The trek takes you to the foot of Annapurna , one of the world’s highest peaks . The trek usually takes 7-12 days , depending upon your customized itinerary and pace. The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp which is situated at an altitude of 4,130m(13,550 ft) which provides the stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges , including peaks like Machhapuchhre (fishtail ) , Hiunchuli and Annapurna South.
When you arrive at Jhinu Danda , you can relax in natural hot springs. Like every other, the best season for this trek is also the Spring and Autumn season. The trek usually begins with the drive from Pokhara to Nayapul . The trail then goes through the Modi Khola involving steep ascent, especially the stone steps to Ulleri. Then reaching Poon Hill offers a breathtaking sunrise view . The trek then continues to Tadapani and Chomrong filled mixed ascents and descents through lush forest and suspension bridge to Dovan/ Bamboo and then to Deurali and then you will reach to Annapurna Base Camp passing through the Machhapuchhre Base Camp witnessing a stunning views of towering peaks.
- Duration : 11-12 days
- Maximum Altitudes : 4,130 m ( 13,550 ft)
- Best season : spring and autumn
- Starting point : Pokhara
Makalu Base Camp trek is a journey that will take you to the Makalu, the fifth highest peak in the world at 8,485 m (27,838 ft) . The trek known for its stunning natural beauty , diverse landscapes , remote ,less traveled paths typically takes 15-20 days to complete . The trek requires a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experiences due to its length and high altitude. The journey begins with the city of Tumlingtar which is accessible via domestic flight from Kathmandu .
The trek begins with a beautiful setting of scenery and progresses through the varied terrains including Lush subtropical forests , alpine meadows and high altitude deserts . Trekkers will be rewarded with the stunning views of Makalu , L horse along with the barun glaciers . As the route passes through the Makalu- Barun National Park where you can find the different species as well as rare wildlife such as red panda and snow leopard. The best time to undertake the trek are during the spring and Autumn season for stable weather and clear skies.
Overall, the Makalu Base CampTrek offers an off beaten path combining the spectacular natural view as well as rich culture
The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a captivating journey through the Lantang National Park offering the perfect blend of cultural and natural aspects. This moderate trek , typically last for 7-9 days , starting from Dhunche or Syabrubesi , which is accessible by a scenic drive from Kathmandu . Trekkers will traverse through the diverse terrain from lush forest and terraced fields to rocky highlands, ultimately reaching to the sacred alpine lake, Gosaikunda at 4,380 m which is believes to have been created by lord Shiva and attracts many pilgrims especially during the Janai Purnima.
Along the way trekker can expect to see the panoramic view of Langtang Himalayan range and also have the chance to spot the different wildlife , including the elusive red panda . Key highlights of the trek includes exploring cheese factory and Sing Gompa monastery in Chandabari
It’s best to undertake this trek in spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November ) season as the weather is stable and the sky is clear offering the best views of Langtang Himalayan range . During these times, the temperatures are moderate making the trek more comfortable and enjoyable . The terrain varies from well-trodden paths and steep ascents to rugged and rocky sections .
- Duration : 7-9 days
- Best Season : March to May , September to November
- Starting point : Dhunche or Syabrubesi (both accessible by road from Kathmandu )
Challenging Treks :
Nepal offers some of the most challenging and rewarding trekking experiences in the world. These treks are suitable for experienced trekkers with high level of fitness andpassion for adventure. Here are some of the most challenging treks in Nepal:
Everest Three High Pass Trek
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding trek in Nepal. It takes you through three high passes in the Everest region: Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La . You’ll get the stunning views of the world’s highest peaks including Mt. Everest , Lhotse , Makalu and Cho Oyu .The trek offers diverse landscapes from the lush forest and alpine meadows to rugged mountain terrain and glacial valley .
You’ll walk through the picturesque villages , cross the high mountain passes and also get to experience the turquoise glacial lakes like Gokyo Lake . The trek not only offers the breathtaking mountain views but also a chance to experience the rich Sherpa culture and Hospitality . Trekkers will pass through the famous Sherpa village such as Namche Bazar and visit the monasteries like Tengboche
- Duration : 18-21 days
- Maximum altitude : Kongma La Pass (5,535m/18,159 ft )
- Best season : March to May , September to November
Lower Dolpo Trek
Lower Dolpo Trek is another captivating adventurous journey that will take trekkers to the remote and unspoiled region of Nepal. Located in the far west of Nepal, the trek takes you through the Dolpo region , known for its rugged landscapes, pristine beauty and Tibetian- influenced culture. Trek typically takes 14-18 days depending upon your customized itinerary and pace , starting with a scenic flight to Juphal via Nepalgunj.
This Trek offers a challenging yet rewarding experienced , with diverse terrains ranging from dense forests and alpine meadows to highlands and deep river gorges . The trail passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park and is home to the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake , Nepal’s deepest and second largest lake renowned for its turquoise water . The trek also includes high passes such as Numa La Pass (5,190m ) and Baga La Pass (5,070m) . The trek is classified as challenging due to its remote location , high altitudes and rugged terrains, requiring good physical fitness .
Culturally the lower Dolpo region is rich and diverse with strong Tibetan influence. Trekkers will encounter ancient Buddhist monasteries , traditional villages and the warm hospitality of the locals. Key highlights of the term includes the visit ti the centuries old-Shey Gompa monastery , interacting with yak herders, and witnessing the traditional salt trading caravans.
- Duration : 15-18 days
- Maximum altitude : Numa La Pass (5, 190 m/ 17,028 ft)
- Best season : Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty level : challenging
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
- Duration : 20-25 days
- Maximum altitude : Lapsang La Pass (5,160m/16,929 ft)
- Best season : April to May , October to November
Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Duration : 14-18 dyas
- Maximum altitude : Larkya La Pass (5,160 meter/16,929 ft)
- Best season : March to May , September to November
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Duration : 18-21 days
- Maximum altitude : French Pass (5,360m / 17,585 ft )
- Best season : April to May , September to November
Upper Dolpo Trek
- Duration: 24-30 days
- Maximum altitude : Kang La Pass (5,240 m/ 17,191 ft)
- Best season : May to October
Ganja La Pass Trek
- Duration : 14-16 days
- Maximum altitude : Ganja La Pass (5,122 m/ 16,800 ft )
- Best season : April to May , October to November
2.Consider the duration of the Trek
Short Treks(3-7 days)
Ghorepani Poon Hill
- Trek Duration : 5 days
- Difficulty : Easy
- Maximum Elevation : 3,210m(Poonhill)
- Best season : Spring and Autumn
- Starting point : Pokhara
- Permits : TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit )
- Major Attractions: Poon Hill sunrise, Ghorepani, Pokhara, Ghandruk.
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek : Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7973 m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Dhauligiri I(8167m), Machapuchare (6993m), Nilgiri (7061m), Himalchuli (7893m).
Langtang Valley Trek
- Trek duration : 6 days
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Maximum Elevation : 3,850m( Kyanjin Gompa)
- Best season : Spring and Autumn
- Starting point : Syabrubesi
- Permits : Langtang National Park and TIMS
- Major Attractions: Kyanjin Gompa, Langtang Village , Kyanjin Ri.
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek:Langatng Lirung (7246 m) , Langtang II (6575 m ), Langtang III (6547 m), Gang Chhenpo (6388 m ), Dorje Lakpa (6966 m), Shishapangma (8013m).
Panch Pokhari Trek
- Trek Duration : 5 days
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Maximum Elevation : 4,300m (Panch Pokhari Viewpoint).
- Best season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attractions: Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes ) Chimti villages
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek: Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa (6966 m ), Madiya (6650m), Langtang Lirung (7246m).
Everest View Trek
- Trek Duration : 6 days
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Maximum Elevation : 3,864m (Hote; Everest View)
- Permits : Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality
- Best Season: Spring and Autumn
- Major Attractions : Namche Bazar , Hotel Everest View, Mount Everest and Lukla Airport
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek: Mount Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Nuptse (7861m), Ama Dablam (6812m), Thamserku (6623m), Kantega (6783m), Pumori (7161m).
Helambu Trek
- Trek Duration : 6 days
- Difficulty : Easy
- Maximum Elevation : 3,650m(Thadepati)
- Permits : Langtang National Park and Shivapuri National Park
- Best Season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attraction: Thadepati Pass, Monasteries, Langtang National park , Shivapuri National Park.
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek: Langtang Lirung (7246m), Dorje Lakpa (6966m), Gang Chhenpo (6388 m ), Jugal Himal (7319m), Shishapangma (8013m), Gaurishankar(7145m).
Medium- Length Trek (8-14 days )
Annapurna Base Camp
- Trek Duration : 13 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Elevation : 4,130m
- Permits : TIMS Card and ACAP
- Best season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attraction : Machapuchre Base Camp, Jhinu Danda Hot Spring,Ghandruk Village
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek: Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Machapuchare (6993m) , Gangapurna (7455m), Annapurna III (7555m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Tukuche Peak(6920), Barahi Shikhar (7647m)
Mardi Himal Trek
- Trek Duration : 9 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Elevation : 4500m
- Permits : TIMS Card and ACAP
- Best season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attraction : Siding , Pitam Deurali , Mardi Himal Viewpoint, Annapurna Range
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek : Mardi Himal (5553m), Machapuchare(6993m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219m), Annapurna III (7555m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Tukuche Peak (6920m)
Jomsom- Muktinath Trek
- Trek Duration : 10 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Elevation: 3710m
- Permits :TIMS and ACAP
- Best season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attraction: Muktinath Temple, Jomsom, Kagbeni Village, Marpha Village, Kali Gandaki Gorge,Thorong La Pass view.
- Mountains that are seen during the Trek :Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Nilgiri(7061m), Tukuche Peak (6920m), Machapuchare(6993m).
Everest Base Camp Trek
- Trek Duration: 14 Days
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Maximum Elevation : 5364m (Everest Base Camp)
- Permits: TIMS and Sagarmatha Nationa Park
- Best Season: Spring and Autumn
- Major Attractions: Everest Base Camp,Kala Patthar, Namche Bazar, Tengboche Monastery, Lukla , Phakding and Dingboche.
- Mountains That Are seen during the Trek : Mountain Everest (8848m), Lhotse(8516m), Nuptse (7861m), Ama Dablam (6812m), Makalu (8485m).
Gosaikunda Trek
- Trek Duration : 8 days.
- Difficulty : Moderate.
- Maximum Elevation: Gosaikunda (4380m).
- Permits : TIMS and Langtang National Park .
- Best Season : Spring and Autumn.
- Major Attraction : Gosaikunda Lake, Helambu region, Laurebina Pass, Langatang Valley Views, Cultural Experiences.
- Mountains That are seen during the Trek: Langtang Lirung (7246m), Dorje lakpa(6966m), Ganesh Himal(7406m), Gaurishankar (7145m)
Long Trek (15-20 days)
Makalu Base Camp Trek
- Duration : 15 to 20 days
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Maximum Elevation : Makalu Base Camp (4870m)
- Permits : TIMS and Makalu Barun National Park
- Best Season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attraction : Makalu Base Camp , Barun Valley and High altitude passes
- Mountains That are seen During the Trek: Makalu (8845m), Chamalang (7319m), Baruntse(7129m), Lhotse(8516m)
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
- Trek Duration : 20 days
- Difficulty : Challenging
- Maximum Elevation : 5140m (Kanchenjunga Base Camp)
- Permits: TIMS and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Best season: Spring and Autumn
- Major Attractions: Kanchenjunga Base Camp,
- Mountains that are seen during the trek : Kanchenjunga (8586m), Makalu (8485m), Kumbhakarna(7710m), Pangpema Peak(6650m) .
Dolpo Trek
- Trek Duration : 18 days
- Difficulty : Challenging
- Maximum Elevation : Shey Phoksundo Lake (3611m)
- Permits : TIMS and Dolpo Restricted Area Permit
- Best Season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attractions: Shey Phoksundo Lake, Traditional Tibetan Culture , Remote Wildreness
- Mountains that are seen during the trek : Kanjiroba (6883m), Dhaulagiri(8167m), Nilgiri (7061m)
Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Trek Duration : 16 days
- Difficulty : Challenging
- Maximum Elevation: 5106 m (Larkya La Pass)
- Permits : TIMS , Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Best Season : Spring and Autumn
- Major Attractions: Manaslu Base Camp , Larkya La Pass, Traditional village
- Mountains that are seen during the trek : Manaslu (8163m ) , Himalchuli (7893m), Ganesh Himal (7406m) , Shringi Himal (7187m) and many more.
3.Evaluate the Scenery and Terrain
When choosing the trek in Nepal or anywhere it’s crucial to consider the scenery and terrain to ensure that matches perfectly with your preferences and physical abilities. Nepal offer the wide variety of landscapes from the lush forests and terraced fields to high alpine deserts and glacial peaks.Here is the list of the trek focusing on their scenery and terrain to help you choose the perfect destination:
Everest Base Camp
Scenery : The trek offers the iconic views of the highest peaks in the world including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Trekkers can expect to pass through the dense forest, glacial rivers and traditional Sherpa villages which are adorned with the colorful prayers flags.
Terrain: The terrain might be quite challenging with steep ascents and descents, rockypaths and areas with snow and ice especially as you get closer to the base camp . The altitude and thin air add to the difficulty.
Best for: Adventure seekers looking for challenging trek with stunning mountain views.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Scenery : This trek is known for its diverse landscapes from subtropical forest ,terraced rice paddies to the high-altitude deserts.Trekkers will see the majestic peaks ranges like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri as well as the world deepest gorge, kali gandaki.
Terrain: The terrain varies from lush lowland villages to high altitude passes. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass which is physically demanding due to its height.
Best for : Trekkers seeking for a variety of landscapes and cultural experiences and those looking for a longer amd more diverse trekking route.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Scenery : The Manaslu trek offers the remote and untouched scenery with the view of the Manaslu ranges, deep valley ,high mountain passes and lush forests. The trek also passes through the Tibetian and Gurung villages.
Terrain : The terrain is rugged and remote with challenging high passes like Larkya La Pass. It involves steep ascents and descents and can be physically demanding.
Best for : Experienced trekkers looking for solitude , unspoiled nature and a challenging trekking route.
Gokyo Lakes Trek
Scenery : The trek features stunning lake , vast glaciers and panoramic views of peaks like Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. The Gokyo Ri viewpoint offers one of the best view in the Everest region.
Terrain : The terrain includes steep climbs , moraine trails and high passes like Cho La. It can be physically demanding due to the altitude and rugged paths.
Best For : Trekkers seeking spectacular lake and mountain vistas and those looking for an alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp.
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Scenery : The trek offers pristine and remote valley, diverse ecosystems and views of towering peaks like Makalu and Everest . The scenery includes the dense forests , high alpine meadows and glacial valley.
Terrain : The terrain is challenging with high passes, dense forests and rugged trails. The remoteness of the area addsto its difficulty.
Best for : Trekkers seeking a remote and challenging adventure with unspoiled natural beauty.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Scenery : The trek features remote villages, dense forests and expansive views of Kanchenjunga range. The area is known for its biodiversity and pristine landscapes.
Terrain : Long and strenuous with high passes and remote , rugged paths . The trek involves significant altitude gain and physical endurance.
Best for : Experienced trekkers seeking isolation, dramatic mountain scenery and physically demanding trek.
4.Consider the Altitude
When planning a trek in Nepal, altitude is a key factor that influences both the difficulty and overall experience. Different altitude levels require varying degree of preparation and accilimatization . Here’s a detailed at trekking in Nepal based on altitude:
Lower to Moderate Altitude Treks :
Elevation : Up to 3000 meters(9,842 ft)
Examples
- Ghorepani Poon Hil Trek : Reaching a maximum height of about 3,210m(10,531 ft) this trek offers stunning sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Langtang Valley Trek : With an elevation up to 3,800 m(12,467ft) , this trek is ideal for experiencing the cultural and natural beauty of the Langtang region.
- Helambu Trek : Generally staying below 3,600m (11,811 ft) this trek provides a mix of Tamang and Sherpa culture along with stunning landscapes.
Characteristics :
- More accessible and suitable for beginners and those with moderate trekking experience.
- Reduces the risk of altitude sickness compared to higher altitude treks although acclimatization is still beneficial.
- Rich cultural interaction with local communities and easier access to teahous and accommodations.
High Altitude Treks
Elevation : Above 3000m(9,842ft)
- Everest Base Camp Trek : Reaching an elevation of 5,364m (17,598 ft), this iconic trek provides breathtaking views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks.
- Annapurna Circuit Trek: At its highest point, Thorong La Pass , the trek reaches 5,416 m(17,769 ft)offering
- Diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.
- Manaslu Circuit Trek : With a maximum elevation of 5,135 m (16,847 ft), this trek is known for its remote beauty and challenging trails.
- Makalu Base Camp Trek : Reaching 5,000m (16,404 ft), this trek is less crowded and offers the stunning trekking experience.
Characteristics :
- Significantly more challenging due to thinner air and lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes.
- Higher risk of altitude sickness proper acclimatix=zation is very essential.
- Terrain varies from forests and meadows at lower altitudes to rugged, snow-covered landscapes at higher elevation.
5. Choose the right season
Spring (March to May ) : Ideal for almost every trek, with moderate temperature, blooming rhododendron and clear view
Autumn(September to November) : Another perfect season for every trek offers clear skies and excellent visibility perfect temperature.
Winter (December to February) : Suitable for lower altitude treks. Higher altitude treks can be challenging due to snow and cold temperatures.
Monsoon(June to August): Best to avoid high altitude treks due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails . Suitable for rain shadow areas like upper mustang and Dolpo.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect trekking destination in Nepal involves considering your fitness level, the trek’s duration , the type of scenery you prefer, altitude , season and necessary permits. By taking these factors into account , you can select a trek that matches your interests and abilities.
Ensuring an unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.At Nature Explore Trek , we understand that each trekker has unique preferences and requirements. That’s why we provide customized itinerary considering your preferences . Our team of experienced professionals is flexible and dedicated to ensuring you have a safe , enjoyable and unforgettable trekking experince in Nepal.
