Top 7 trekking routes in Nepal
Top trekking routes in Nepal that you must have on your bucket list
If there’s one thing that anyone should have on their bucket list is trekking in Nepal. The gorgeous nature, gigantic mountains, and dazzling glaciers all make up for an epic trekking experience in Nepal.
Unlike other places, travellers can choose among various trails and routes to kickstart their journey. All thanks to the perfect blend of divine nature and geographical diversity of Nepal. Now you can either go for short treks or challenge yourself with tough mountaineering expeditions.
No wonder Nepal manages to be among the most popular destinations for trekking. So, without further ado, here’s a list of top trekking routes in Nepal that you must have on your bucket list.
A list of Top Trekking Routes in Nepal
Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest base camp is among those trekking routes in Nepal that are loaded with stunning mountain views. This trek takes you to the lap of Everest without all the expediting of the mountain itself.
It is a 2-week trip that starts from Kathmandu to one of the highest airports in the world, Lukla.
During the route, you’ll witness the magnificent beauty of Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche Monastery, crossing breathtaking suspension bridges. The stunning scenery of the highest mountains in the world such as Lhotse, Changri, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse standing at heights of 8414m, 6027m, and 7861m will treat your eyes.
Since it happens to be one of the major trekking routes in Nepal, prepare yourself for a bit of a crowd. You’ll see two Everest basecamps at the endpoints of this trek namely North and South base camps. The best time to make this trip is from March to May and from September to November.
Major Attractions:
- Tengboche monastery
- Namche Bazar-an entrance to Mount Everest
- Khumbu Glacier
- Kala Patthar- the highest point of the trek- panoramic viewpoint of Everest.
Annapurna 7 Passes Trek
You can’t complete the best trekking routes in Nepal without Annapurna 7 Passes Trek. Annapurna 7 passes trek is a 20-day trek that explores part of the Annapurna Circuit.
This trek originated as a great alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trekking route. This is because the original route has transformed into dirt off-road with an increase in the number of people going by jeep to start trekking at any point.
This trek covers 7 passes namely the Kuchurmo, Yarcha, Meta, Phu, Nar, Kangla, and the popular Thorong la. The trail will take you through uncovered forests, and narrow canyons and if you are lucky, you might even get to see Red Panda.
For those of you who are obsessed with mountains, this trek is heaven. The hidden valleys, breathtaking mountain views, and calm surroundings will enhance your trekking experience like no other. You can trek this place throughout all seasons.
Major Attractions:
- Trek alongside the unexplored and hidden Dona Lake
- Stunning view of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna I, and other surrounding mountains.
- Explore the culture of Tibetan Nomadic tribes
Manaslu Circuit Trek
If you’re in the mood for challenging yet less crowded treks in Nepal, then the Manaslu Circuit Trek could be the best option. Unlike other popular teahouse treks in Nepal, Manaslu has a more remote and off-beat village hiking vibe to it.
It is a 14-day trek that starts at Seti Khola and ends at Beshi Sahar. The trail falls under the preservation area of the Manaslu region, which has protected the wildlife and vegetation in their natural state.
So expect authentic and raw natural beauty. You’ll be delighted with visual feasts from rice paddies, widespread green forests, and gorgeous waterfalls to rocky landscapes, rich local tribes, and monasteries to name a few. You can get the best out of this trek during the autumn(September- November) and spring (March-May) Seasons in Nepal.
Major Attractions:
- Cross the highest point with Larkya La Pass at the height of 5125m
- Birendra Tal, a popular lake in the Manaslu Glacier.
- Get in touch with the lifestyle of the Tibet-influenced tribe, Nubri People
- Picturesque view of Mt. Manaslu
- The diverse topography of the Manaslu conservation area
Langtang Trek
Langtang trek takes the title for short treks in Nepal. This is because the trek begins at Syabrubesi within 8 hour’s drive from Kathmandu.
This teahouse trek will transport you to a wonderland with green pastureland, stunning waterfalls, high alpine meadows, and widespread forests of bamboo, oak, and rhododendrons.
The trek takes 11 days of exploring Langtang Valley. If you are running short on time, then you can opt for a helicopter ride from Kyanjin. You’ll also explore the exquisite craftsmanship, culturally significant dresses, and beautifully carved wooden porches of the Tamang and Tibetan people residing in the village.
Major Attractions:
- Stunning view from Kyanjin Gompa and Langtang Gompa
- Langtang National Park
- Tap into the life of local indigenous people and their culture
- Helambu village, Gosaikunda, Vairab Kunda, Surya Kunda, Saraswati Kunda
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
For those of you who expect trekking in Nepal to be more challenging, this could be your sweet spot. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a 21 days trek suitable for advanced trekkers at altitudes above 5,000 m.
The journey begins in Beni, a small town about a 2-3 hours drive from Pokhara. On the route, you’ll travel through the Myagdi Khola River to the Chhonbardan Glacier, at the foot of Dhaulagiri.
You’ll see barren farmland, snow-covered rocky mountains, and a magical view of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiris, and Annapurnas.
Major Attractions:
- Varied terrains, from green villages and barren lands to glacial deposits and snowy mountains.
- Town of Marpha, popular for its monastery and apple orchards.
- Spectacular views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and various other 7000 m-plus peaks.
- Option to ascend Dhampus Peak(6,060 m) for experienced mountaineers.
- Discover less explored places of the Annapurna region with a high-altitude trek.
Gokyo Lake Trek
Since it is located to the west of the Everest Base Camp trek, it is a great alternative to explore the Everest region without the mess of a crowd. The Gokyo Lakes are six bodies of water or lakes located in the Gokyo Valley with altitudes ranging from 4700 to 5000m.
The turquoise water of Gokyo Lake leaves you mesmerised. Gokyo Lake trek is a 12-day trek that begins at Lukla. You’ll be walking for around 5 hours a day and cross Gokyo RI (5,357m) to view Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu.
You can also opt for a helicopter tour in case you’re in the mood for a little fancy. The largest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa, and ice ridges are there to hypnotise you with their beauty.
The best season to trek here is from March to May and October to November.
Major Attractions:
- The hospitality of Gokyo Village
- Explore the calmness of sparking glacial lakes, specifically during the afternoon.
- the Ngozumpa glacier, and the diverse ecosystem of Sagarmatha National Park
- Sunrise and sunset views of Mount Everest and other peaks from Gokyo Ri (5357 metres)
Nar Phu Valley Trek
The Nar Phu Valley trek is one of the major trekking routes in Nepal that lets travellers experience the fascinating villages of Nar and Phu near Chame.
Nar Phu Valley Trek is a 9-day trek that is located between the Annapurna region and Manaslu region. You’ll be familiarised with the lifestyle of the Khampas (Tibetan refugees) by trekking in these less-explored regions of Nepal.
The breathtaking views of snow capped mountains, narrow canyons, dazzling glaciers, and deep gorges will make your short trek in Nepal quite a memorable one. Nar Phu villages are quite popular for their colourful Tibetan Buddhist chortens and will definitely lift up your spirit.
On the route, you’ll travel through Yak Kharka, followed by Thorong Phedi. You’ll then prepare for crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass – one of the highest passes in the world.
Splendid views of Himlung Himal, Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, and the unique blue sheep are a few of the highlights of this trek.
Major Attractions:
- Dip in hot springs at Tatopani
- Himlung Base Camp, Phu, Naar, and Thorong La passes
- Explore Tibetan-derived culture and lifestyle
- Tashi Lhakhang Gompa
- Tilicho Lake and Muktinath Temple
Major Trekking Routes in Nepal- A Summary
| S.No. | Best Trekking Routes in Nepal | Minimum Duration | Trek Permits | Maximum Altitude |
| 01 | Everest Base Camp | 14 Days | TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit | 5600 meters, Kala Patthar |
| 02 | Annapurna 7 Passes Trek | 21 Days | TIMS, ACAP | 5416 meters, Thorong La Pass |
| 03 | Manaslu Circuit Trek | 14 Days | TIMS, MCAP, RAP | 5,160 meters, Larkya Pass |
| 04 | Langtang Trek | 8 Days | TIMS, Langtang National Park | 4,984 meters, Tserko Ri |
| 05 | Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek | 21 Days | TIMS, ACAP | French Pass (5370m) |
| 06 | Gokyo Lake Trek | 12 Days | TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit | 5357 meters, Gokyo Ri |
| 07 | Nar Phu Valley Trek | 9 Days | TIMS, ACAP, NRA | 5416 meters |
The scenic routes, Himalayan trails, and natural wonders of Nepal will make you’re trekking a lifetime experience. Honestly, this land has so many variations that your quest for adventure never really ends. So, make sure to give these top trekking routes in Nepal a shot and embody nature’s magic in your memory lane forever.