The Best Trekking Routes in Nepal: An Overview

Nepal offers the best trekking routes worldwide, from breathtaking mountains to serene, peaceful, winding valleys. It is known as the trekker’s paradise and offers something for every trekker, whether you are an experienced hiker or just starting.

In this article, we’ll explore five of the best trekking routes in Nepal, giving beginners an overview of the options, what to expect, and how to make the most of their trekking adventure.

Everest Base Camp Trek: An Adventure on the Roof of the World

What could be more fascinating than chatting face-to-face with the world’s tallest peak, Everest?

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is one of the most famous and rewarding trekking routes in beautiful, calm Nepal. It is an iconic trek that every trekker around the world dreams of. The trekkers get to experience lush green forests and towering nearby peaks. They will be pleased with the Sherpas’ hospitality and bravery.

Here is the list of the peaks that the trekkers can experience during their Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek:

SN	Peak	Height	Short Detail
1	Mount Everest (Sagarmatha)	8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet)	The highest mountain in the world, visible from various points along the trek, especially from Kala Patthar.
2	Lhotse	8,516 meters (27,940 feet)	The fourth-highest mountain globally, located immediately south of Everest.
3	Nuptse	7,861 meters (25,791 feet)	Known for its massive south face, forming a dramatic ridge with Everest and Lhotse.
4	Ama Dablam	6,812 meters (22,349 feet)	Renowned for its striking pyramid shape, often considered the most beautiful peak in the Himalayas.
5	Thamserku	6,623 meters (21,729 feet)	Visible early in the trek, adding to the stunning backdrop of the Khumbu region.
6	Kangtega	6,782 meters (22,251 feet)	Also called “The Snow Saddle,” often seen alongside Thamserku.
7	Pumori	7,161 meters (23,494 feet)	Located near Everest, offering spectacular views from Gorak Shep and Kala Patthar.
8	Cholatse	6,440 meters (21,129 feet)	Known for its steep faces, visible from the village of Dingboche.
9	Taboche	6,495 meters (21,309 feet)	Adjacent to Cholatse, contributing to the scenic panorama.
10	Khumbutse	6,636 meters (21,772 feet)	Lies on the border between Nepal and Tibet, near Everest.
11	Lingtren	6,749 meters (22,142 feet)	Located close to Khumbutse, visible from higher points on the trek.
12	Island Peak (Imja Tse)	6,189 meters (20,305 feet)	A popular trekking peak that can be seen from Dingboche and surrounding areas.
13	Makalu	8,485 meters (27,838 feet)	The fifth-highest mountain, visible from certain viewpoints like Kala Patthar.
14	Cho Oyu	8,188 meters (26,864 feet)	The sixth-highest peak, glimpsed from parts of the trek, especially at higher elevations.
15	Gyachung Kang	7,952 meters (26,089 feet)	The highest peak between Cho Oyu and Everest, occasionally visible along the route.

Though the trek is challenging, it’s suitable for beginners with some preparation. The route covers approximately 130 kilometers, and you can expect to trek for about two weeks, with plenty of rest days to acclimatize.

You’ll need to be mindful of altitude sickness as you gradually ascend to over 5,000 meters. Maintaining a steady pace and keeping yourself hydrated will improve your chances of reaching Everest Base Camp safely.

The EBC trek is well-equipped, with numerous teahouses providing comfortable accommodation and local meals. While the journey will test your stamina, it also allows you to experience Sherpa culture, taste delicious Nepali cuisine, and walk amidst some of the tallest mountains on earth.

Read more about the Everest Base Camp, including itinerary, cost, preparation, etc.

Annapurna Circuit: One of the Most Beautiful Trekking Routes in the World

The Annapurna Circuit is a classic trekking route that showcases the beauty of the Himalayas like no other. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, this route is perfect for beginners who want a mix of nature, culture, and adventure. The Annapurna Circuit passes through lush forests, arid deserts, and alpine meadows, all while offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

This trek takes 10 to 15 days, depending on your pace and how much time you spend acclimatizing. The route takes you to the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world at 5,416 meters. While it might sound intimidating, the Annapurna Circuit is manageable for beginners, especially if you take time and give yourself enough days to adjust to the altitude.

Your Essential Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Map

Along the way, you’ll visit villages inhabited by different ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis, each with its own unique traditions and culture. The diversity of landscapes and cultural experiences makes this trek one of the most beloved trekkers worldwide.

Annapurna Circuit Trek: Full Guide 2024

Langtang Valley Trek: A Hidden Gem in Nepal

If you’re looking for a less crowded trekking experience, the Langtang Valley Trek is a great choice. Located just north of Kathmandu, the Langtang Valley is a hidden gem that offers an amazing trekking experience without the hustle and bustle of more popular routes. This relatively short trek, taking around 7 to 10 days, makes it an excellent option for beginner trekkers.

The Langtang Valley Trek takes you through beautiful forests and picturesque villages and offers panoramic views of the Langtang Himal range. This trek also provides a unique opportunity to explore the culture of the Tamang people, who have a rich heritage closely linked to Tibetan traditions. The trek ends at Kyanjin Gompa, a stunning monastery surrounded by snow-capped peaks, where trekkers can also visit a cheese factory and taste locally made dairy products.

Beginners will appreciate the Langtang Valley Trek’s relatively moderate difficulty level and the warm hospitality of the locals. The trail is well-marked, and there are plenty of teahouses along the way, ensuring comfortable accommodations and access to fresh meals throughout the journey.

Upper Mustang Trek: A Journey into the Forbidden Kingdom

The Upper Mustang Trek offers a unique trekking experience in a once-forbidden kingdom region, with its distinct Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and dramatic desert-like landscapes. Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang is characterized by its arid terrain, colorful rock formations, and barren cliffs, unlike any other trekking route in Nepal.

The trek usually takes around 12 to 14 days and begins in Jomsom, which a short flight from Pokhara can reach. From Jomsom, trekkers follow the Kali Gandaki River, passing through picturesque villages, ancient caves, and historic monasteries. The highlight of the trek is reaching Lo Manthang, a walled city once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. Here, you can explore the royal palace, visit traditional monasteries, and learn about the unique customs and culture of the local people.

The best time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is stable and the skies are clear, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Despite being in a remote part of Nepal, the trek is relatively moderate in difficulty, with gradual ascents that make it suitable for beginners who are physically prepared for long walking days.

This trek also provides an opportunity to witness traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture, which has been preserved for centuries. The Tiji Festival, celebrated in Lo Manthang during the spring, is a highlight for many trekkers, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The Upper Mustang Trek is an incredible journey for those seeking a different side of Nepal, one that is steeped in history, culture, and striking natural beauty.

For more detailed information on the Upper Mustang Trek, visit this page.

Short and Easy Trekking Routes for Beginners in Nepal

For beginners who want to start small, Nepal offers several short and easy trekking routes that are perfect for getting a feel for trekking in the Himalayas without committing to a long journey. Some popular shorter treks include the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, the Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Trek, and the Chisapani Trek.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is perhaps the most well-known of the shorter treks. It typically takes 3 to 5 days and offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trek is famous for the early morning hike to Poon Hill, where you can watch a mesmerizing sunrise over the mountains. It’s a rewarding experience that doesn’t require extensive trekking experience, making it ideal for beginners.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek: 4 days Trek

The Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Trek is another easy route that takes a day or two. Located near Kathmandu, this trek offers beautiful views of the Himalayas and takes you through terraced fields and quaint villages. It’s perfect for those who want a short trek with stunning vistas.

The Chisapani Trek is another great option for beginners. It takes you through the lush Shivapuri National Park, where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes, forests, and views of the Langtang range. These shorter treks are a great way to ease into trekking and build your confidence for longer adventures in the future.

Plan Your Trek with Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd.

Ready to start your trekking adventure in Nepal? Himalaya Safety Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. is a trusted trekking company based in Pokhara, dedicated to providing safe and unforgettable trekking experiences. Visit our Google My Business page to learn more about our services, read reviews from fellow trekkers, and get in touch with us to plan your next journey into the heart of the Himalayas!