Nepal which is home to the pristine Himalayas is a dream destination for trekkers and mountaineers from all around the globe. This Himalayan nation boasts some of the most picturesque and adventurous trekking routes on the planet. From the legendary Everest Base Camp Trek to the diverse Annapurna Circuit Trek and the off-beaten Manaslu Circuit Trek every trekking journey here offers a unique experience. Whether you are seeking to admire the breathtaking mountain views and diverse landscape up close or you are curious about the cultural and spiritual side of the mountain, Nepal has something to offer for every trekker.
In this article, we will delve into the five popular treks in Nepal exploring their highlights, and challenges and understanding what makes them an unforgettable experience.
Everest Base Camp Trek
Duration: 12 to 16 days
Maximum Elevation: Kalapatthar (5,644m/ 18,517ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
The Everest Base Camp Trek is without any doubt one of the most popular and beloved trekking adventures in the Himalayas. Every year thousands of trekkers from across the globe embark on this iconic journey to reach the foothills of the tallest mountain in the world Mount Everest (8,848m). This eastern Himalayan adventure offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture and stunning landscape. You will get started on this trekking trail after a scenic and exhilarating flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Then you will traverse across the heart of the Khumbu Valley admiring the breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Pumori and other surrounding peaks.
Along the trekking route you will also get the opportunity to experience the traditional Sherpa culture, explore significant Buddhist monasteries and high-altitude glaciers. Thus Everest Base Camp Trek is ideal for explorers who are aiming to experience the whole of Everest without climbing it.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Maximum Elevation: Thorong La Pass (5,416m/ 17,769ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
After the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek is another major trekking route in Nepal. In fact, it ranks as the second most beloved trekking route among the adventures. This circumnavigating journey of the tenth-highest peak in the world, Mount Annapurna (8,091m) offers unparalleled diversity. Trekkers will get the opportunity to explore a wide range of landscapes from the subtropical forest, terraced farms and lush woodlands to high-altitude arid landscapes and rugged mountain passes. Like the landscape, you will also get the opportunity to admire the cultural diversity in the region.
During this circuit trek, you will travel through the beautiful traditional settlements of Magar, Thakali, Tamang, Brahmin and Chhetri. The trekking journey starts at the lowe-altitude region of Besisahar or Ngadi. Then, you will trek across the terraced farms, picturesque villages, soaring rivers, dramatic cliffs and dense rhododendron forest. The real thrill of this circuit trek comes at Thorong La Pass, one of the major trekking passes on the planet.
Langtang Valley Trek
Duration: 8 to 12 days
Maximum Elevation: Tsergo Ri (4,985m/ 16,354ft)
Difficulty Level: Relatively easy to moderate
Best Season: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
If you find high-altitude trekking adventures like Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek challenging, Langtang Valley Trek is another best alternative for Himalayan exploration that doesn’t push to significant altitudes. This is a short and rewarding trek near Kathmandu where you will get the opportunity to witness the stunning combination of lush forest, pristine snow-capped peaks and ancient Tamang culture. The main highlight of this trek is Kyanjin Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery that is surrounded by towering peaks.
For thrill-seekers, Tsergo Ri is a popular viewpoint art elevation of 4,985 meters (16,354ft) is a popular prospect. This trekking journey starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Sybarubesi. You will then follow a steady ascent across dense rhododendron and bamboo forests that are home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears and exotic bird species.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Duration: 12 to 19 days
Maximum Elevation: Larke La Pass (5,106m/ 16,751ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Going beyond the mainstream trekking route, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a renowned trekking adventure that is popular for the off-beaten experience. If you want to trek farther from the crowd of the mainstream routes like Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek, the less-traveled alternative, Manaslu Circuit Trek, offers an authentic Himalayan experience. This circuit trail circles the eighth-highest snow-clad wonder of the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m) and passes through the untouched landscape and traditional villages of the Himalayas. Manaslu Circuit Trek holds a special place in the heart of the adventures because of its remoteness and exclusivity.
As this trekking route requires a special trekking permit and is completely isolated for the most part, the trail has a significantly lesser crowd. Thus, this journey guarantees a pure and undisturbed connection with nature and the ancient Himalayan culture. You will travel through the lush forest, cascading waterfall, suspension bridges and ancient settlements while taking this route. This is an ideal option for trekking in the Himalayas if you are looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures with diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Duration: 7 to 11 days
Maximum Elevation: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/
Difficulty Level: Relatively easy to moderate
Best Season: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Besides Annapurna Circuit Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is another popular trekking adventure in the central Himalayan region. This trekking journey takes you to the foothills directly below the tenth-highest mountain on the planet, Mount Annapurna (8,091m). Unlike the long-route treks, this classic base camp adventure is a short and incredibly rewarding journey that leads to the heart of Annapurna massif. As the Annapurna region is known for its incredible diversity during the trek, you will travel through dense forests, terraced farmlands and high-altitude glaciers enjoying the panoramic mountain views.
Along the trek, you will explore the major highlights of the Annapurna region like Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Chomrong and Jhinu Danda. This relatively easy journey to the central Himalayas is perfect for those who are seeking a combination of adventure and comfort.
