7 Popular Treks in Nepal

The sensational Himalayan range and stunning geographical diversity is a unique feature of Nepal. The uniqueness offers many popular trekking destinations in Nepal that attract many tourists around the world.

Nepal offers a wide range of amazing treks as it lies on the laps of the Himalayas. Some trekking routes are best for beginners, families or even individual adventure seekers. Meanwhile, some treks are special for real adventure seekers.

Various trekking trails in Nepal overview the scenic paradise of nature and mesmerize every traveler. These trails pass through many other attractions that add to the experience.

You get to see the ethnic cultures of the Himalayas full of cultural heritage. Not to forget the warm hospitality of Nepalese people that pleases every visitor.

Nepal's exquisite beauty and geographical diversity is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. So grab your rucksacks and head on your way to Nepal.

Now, the big question is “Where to trek in Nepal?”.

You might still not be sure about which trek is the most ideal for you. Don’t worry, we have got you covered. We have gathered a list of the 7 popular treks in Nepal.

1. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Duration: 17-19 days
Difficulty: Hard
Accommodation: Teahouse and camping

A trek with less crowd and nature beside you, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a walk into heaven. Manaslu circuit is one of the best yet untouched trekking routes in Nepal as it was a restricted area till 1992.

The trek is among the most challenging treks in Nepal. For the adventure seekers, the trek falls on the top of their bucket list.

This trek takes you to the wild and arduous side of the Himalayan world. As the name suggests, this is a trek around the base of Manaslu peak through harsh terrains that test you to your limits.

The trek lets you witness the diverse local, ethnic communities of people. These communities have a blend of the Gurung and the Tibetan culture. You also come across several monasteries, rhododendron forests, breathtaking mountain views and many more.

On your way around Manaslu, you go through the Manaslu Conservation Area. This area protects endangered animals like Snow Leopards, Himalayan Thar, and many others. So, you may even get a small glimpse of these rare beasts.

The highest point in the trek is Thulo Larkye which is the best spot throughout the trek. From this point, you get to see the best views of the snow-capped mountains and the great Manaslu peak.

Lastly, the Manaslu trail is fully dotted with tea houses but if you want to spend a night in the wide open world of nature then you can also do camping. But for this remember to carry sleeping bag your overnight kit.

Since temperatures in the mountains are quite a bit colder than at lower elevations so make sure to pack right sleeping bag with appropriate temperature rating. Especially during winter season, the nights are chill cold so you need a bag which provide enough warmth.

Highlights

• Scenic view of Mt. Manaslu and other peaks like Annapurna range, Mount Machhapuchchhre, and Ganesh Himal
• Dense rhododendron forests, rocky and snowy route
• Communities of Nubri people with mixed Gurung and Tibetan culture
• The highest point on the trek, Thulo Larkye at 6,249 meters

2. Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC Trek)

Duration: 12-19 days
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Accommodation: Teahouse

Everest Base Camp is among the most famous trekking destinations of Nepal. You get to experience the finest views of the world’s tallest peak, Sagarmatha. Likewise, panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, and other neighboring peaks mesmerize every admirer.

On this trek, you find yourself observing the local cultures of the ethnic Sherpa communities. You also pass through various monasteries and cultural sites on your trail to the base camp.

The trek takes you through the Sagarmatha National Park. If you are lucky enough, you may get a glance of the rare wildlife of this area!

During the trek, you will stay in the tea houses run by friendly and loving people. They provide basic comforts like hot food, a comfortable bed, and heart-warming hospitality.

The route to the base camp has many things to offer. You visit Namche Bazaar, the prime town of this region. Namche is very famous for various monasteries, ethnic communities, and the flamboyant market.

On your way to the base camp, you will reach the Tengboche village, the oldest Sherpa village in the Khumbu region. At Tengboche, you will also find the Tengboche monastery. It is the largest in the Khumbu region, which displays ancient Buddhist culture at its best.

This is a 14 days high altitude trek where you will walk to the basecamp at a height of 5,380 meters. From the base camp, you reach the highest point of the trek, Kala Patthar at 5,555 meters. Kala Patthar is the highlight of the whole trek. From there, you get to capture breathtaking views of Everest and its neighboring peaks.

Highlights

• Scenic view of Mt. Everest and other peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu along with other peaks as well
• Khumbu Glacier, Sagarmatha National Park, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery
• Ethnic Sherpa community and amazing hospitality
• The highest point on the trek, Kala Patthar at 5,555 m

3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC Trek)

Duration: 13-15 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Teahouse and homestay

A person into trekking knows that Annapurna Base Camp sits on the pinnacle of treks in Nepal. ABC trek takes you along the beautiful landscapes of the mountains. The wide variety of vegetation is also an influential highlight of this trek.

The best thing about the ABC trek is the beauty of the place. The highest point of the trek is the base camp at 4,130 meters. From here, you see jaw-dropping views of peaks like Mt. Annapurna, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre.

Annapurna Base Camp is very popular among travelers as it is a moderate trek. The trail leads from Nayapul through different villages rich in the Gurung and Magar communities. There, you can treat yourself with a delicious Nepali dinner along with a warm bed in one of the teahouses.

Highlights

• Mesmerizing scenery of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre
• The diverse landscape and a wide variety of vegetation
• Ethnic Gurung and Magar communities in Ghandruk and Ghorepani
• Hot spring at Jhinu Danda
• Spectacular sunrise and sunset views from Poon Hill
• Homestay services at Ghandruk villages

4. Upper Mustang Trek

Duration: 14-17 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Teahouse and lodges

Upper Mustang is a beautiful gem among the popular trekking destinations in Nepal. It is like a different world, masked behind the magnificent Himalayan range!

Reaching the Upper Mustang is very satisfying due to the stunning landscapes. The dry barren landscapes are unique which provides an amazing backdrop for your selfies. While the strong, gusty winds refresh you during the journey.

The Upper Mustang is like a secret Tibetan paradise. The rural Nepalese and Tibetan cultures bind together into one sacred land. These people were not in touch with the modern world and technology for years. So, you get to observe the cultures that have been prevailing for decades.

This is a trans-Himalayan region on the other side of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. So, you can trek to this region even in the monsoon season, as the region experiences no rainfall. Along with the unique geography, the land has typical culture and traditions that attract many trekkers.

Highlights

• Tantalizing view of the barren, rocky landscape as well as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
• The forbidden Tibetan Kingdom in Lo Manthang, a walled Kingdom in the Himalayas
• Beautiful & historical monasteries and caves
• The highest point on the trek, Dhamkar at 3,810 m
• Explore the trans-Himalayan Buddhist cultures and practices

5. Mardi Himal Trek

Duration: 7-9 days
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Accommodation: Teahouse and lodges

Some people want a calm and serene journey through a landscape full of natural beauty. If you are one of these people, Mardi Himal awaits you! This trek is sure to make you fall in love with Nepal’s natural heritage.

Mardi Himal is not like other treks where the trail is almost similar throughout the journey. You get surprises after each step towards the Mardi Base Camp. As you travel, you find yourself on an easy trail during the start. And as you go up, your trail goes converges into an uneven and rugged path of the mountains.

This trek goes through a trail covered in lush rhododendron and pine forests. Your journey will become a whole lot better with flowers throughout the path. You can find teahouses and small lodges run by locals, and you will fall in love with their hospitality.

As you go up, you leave the rhododendron forests and start walking on a rocky Himalayan trail. Leaving the lush forests will bring you with the majestic views of various mountains. The Mardi Himal lies towards the east of Annapurna Base Camp, so you get the best views of the Annapurna range.

Highlights

• Astounding view of the Annapurna range, the beautiful Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal
• Stunning natural trail converging into rugged mountainous terrain
• Cozy and warm accommodation facilities
• The highest point on the trek, Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m

6. Rara Lake Trek

Duration: 9-12 days
Difficulty: Hard
Accommodation: Camping

The trek to Rara Lake is one of the most challenging trekking routes in Nepal. The lake sits within the rural villages of Mugu and Jumla. And the trail to the lake is quite rugged with very scarce accommodation facilities.

For those who can take the challenge, Rara Lake is awe-inspiring. The beauty of the lake, the natural habitat, the wildlife, all sum up to make this treks a walk that you will never forget.
Rara is the largest and the deepest lake in Nepal, surrounded by stone walls known as the Malla stones.

The magical view of the lake gives you a once in a lifetime experience of solidarity and peace. Make sure to capture amazing pictures of the lake. Also, you should know that the off-beaten trail to Rara may cause difficulty to carry your stuff. Make a habit of carrying all your necessary gears and gadgets in proper, sturdy backpacks.

People who trek to the lake get a chance to observe over 100 species of birds. The pristine water of Rara Lake and the beautiful mountain peaks make this place heaven on Earth. Since this trail lies in the remote area you may not find tea houses on the way. So, camping gears like sleeping bags, lightweight mattresses, and other stuff is very important while trekking to Rara Lake.

Highlights

• Amazing wildlife views with over 100 species of birds
• Rugged and adventurous trail
• Panoramic view of the lake and peaks like Dhaulagiri & Annapurna
• The highest point on the trek, Gurchi Mara at 3,710 m

7. Langtang Valley Trek

Duration: 9-10 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Teahouses

The trekking trail leading to the Langtang Valley is like nature’s finest piece of art. Langtang Valley Trek takes you through the rich alpine vegetation and scenic meadows. The large waterfalls, ethnic Tamang habitat are some highlights of the trek. You will forget all the stress of busy urban life and relive your best memories on this trek.

The valley is quite near Kathmandu. Yet, it is not very crowded and is best for those who want a short trek with family and friends. Your journey goes through bamboo jungles, rhododendron forests and the amazing wildlife.

On your way, you also get to visit the Gosaikunda lake- a very popular lake that carries religious importance. The lake is also among the popular trekking locations in Nepal, so it's a win-win scenario for any traveler.

This wonderful trek will also take you to the famous Kyanjin Gompa and Kyanjin Ri. This place is one of the best vantage points for the spectacular views of mountain peaks that borders Nepal and Tibet.

On this trek, you can see the remnants of the Gorkha earthquake 2015 and the change the place has faced in recent years.

Highlights

• Spectacular sunrise view from Tserko Ri
• Beautiful trail covered in pine jungles and views of the valley & mountains
• Feel up close with the Gosaikunda lake and Langtang National Park
• A scenic hike to Kyanjin Ri at 4,773 m to witness mountains on Tibetan border

Conclusion

Nepal is full of hidden wonders and beauties. Many places are still unexplored. Some treks bring out the adventurous side of Nepal, while others portray nature’s beauty.

So, if you seek an adventure of a lifetime, you can choose the high altitude strenuous treks. While if you are looking for some short and family-friendly treks, then you can choose easy treks that do not demand much physical fitness. Or, you can plan short treks if you are under time-constraints while trekking in Nepal.

Also, don’t forget to be well prepared for your trek. You need to carry the basics like first-aid kits, sleeping bags, and strong trekking boots.

Having said that, Nepal is a beautiful place that you should add to your bucket list. So, which trek are you planning for your next venture in Nepal?

This is a contribution from one of our contributing writers.

FOLLOW MY ADVENTURES ON YOUTUBE @PinoyAdventurista

Thank You For Sharing!