If you are looking for your next adventure break, you really need to consider planning a trip to Nepal. Expect friendly people, a facsinating culture, historical cities, temples and some of the most impressive mountain ranges on the planet.
There are so many trekking trails in Nepal perfect for all levels and abilities which provide a great array of experiences ranging from challenging high mountain passes to scenic valleys and sporting excursions.
Each route guarantees stunning landscapes, glimpses into local cultures, epic adventures and memories to last a lifetime.
But which trekking destinations in Nepal are best? View our guide to the top places to go hiking and start planning your next adventure today.
1. Everest Base Camp Trek
Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas on the China–Nepal border. This is one of the most iconic destinations in Asia and the world, and somewhere to tick off your bucketlist for any adventure traveller.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic, globally famous and sought after trekking routes that attracts explorers from all corners of the globe. The trek is approximately 12-16 days long and spans over 130 kilometers. It starts with a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Lukla followed by a hike in the legendary Khumbu region.
Travelers go through Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, and Tengboche to know about their culture and life style. In addition to viewing breath-taking mountains like Lhotse, Everest or Nuptse on its way to reaching an altitude of 5,364 meters at the base camp of Everest.
Besides getting you to Kala Patthar for an unforgettable sunrise over Mount Everest; it’s not only reaching this base camp but also mingling with fellow trekkers who are heading towards them and being treated well by people of Sherpa’s community.
2. Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is popular for its variety of landscapes and cultural diversity. It normally takes between 15-20 days to complete, spanning approximately 160-230 kilometers depending on the route chosen. Starting at Besisahar, it rises gradually through dense sub-tropical forests, terraced fields, and beautiful villages that are home to various ethnic communities including Gurungs and Thakalis.
One of the interesting features of this trek is crossing Thorong La Pass at an altitude of 5,416 meters which offers stunning wide-ranging views that include Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. On the way, trekkers will come across tranquil lakes like Tilicho Lake as well as picturesque towns such as Manang and Muktinath with their Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples.
With its combination of nature’s beauty, culture immersion, and rugged terrains; the Annapurna Circuit Trek has become a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.
3. Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a more remote and less crowded alternative to the Annapurna and Everest regions. This 15-20 day trek circumnavigates Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak globally, providing stunning mountain views and cultural experiences. The trail traverses through diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced fields to high-altitude alpine meadows and glacial valleys.
Highlights of this trek include crossing the Larkya La Pass at an elevation of 5,160 meters, encountering traditional Tibetan-influenced villages like Samagaun and Lho, and visiting the tranquil Birendra Tal (Lake). Trekkers also get insights into the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture prevalent in this region, with monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa offering spiritual retreats.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is ideal for those seeking a challenging and less commercialized trekking experience amidst pristine natural beauty and cultural authenticity.
4. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, as many refer to it as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, is definitely a more compact yet still enjoyable trek than the Annapurna Circuit. The trek which is approximately 10-14 days long and covering around kilometres, will lead to the base camp of Mount Annapurna, ranking tenth on World Globe.
Starting from Nayapul or Phedi, you are welcomed by the forest path covered in colourful Rhododendrons. You climb by the tiny charming villages called Chhomrong and Bamboo and you will also see the terraced fields. The end of the trek will be at Annapurna Base Camp, located at about 4,130 meters altitude, with the whole world of high mountains and glaciers right in front of us.
Walkers get to see mesmerising Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), go to the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda and get to the bottom closer of the local Gurung culture. “The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is right for those, who want to have a shorter, though exciting trek in the Annopurnic region.
5. Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang Valley Trek offers an unspoiled taste of the Himalayas and cultural interaction. This 10-12 day long trek entails a distance of about 90 kilometers beginning from Syabrubesi to Langtang Valley located near the border with Tibet.
This trail goes through rich rhododendron forests and bamboo, beautiful Tamang villages like Lama Hotel and Kyanjin Gompa, plus various vantage spots that offer views of the entire mountains. Alternatively, trekkers can go up to Tserko Ri which is famous for its spectacular sunrise view of Langtang range.
The reason why the region has such a diverse fauna population including rare wildlife species like red pandas and Himalayan tahrs is revealed in this article. In addition trekkers can experience Tamang culture where they will come across Tibetan Buddhism, traditional handicrafts and lovingly encounter with people.
To sum up, this is an unhurried journey through high-altitude Himalayan terrain that rewards visitors with an enriched understanding of Nepali culture making it ideal for those who are after experiencing real Nepal.
Plan a Trekking Trip to Nepal
These adventure hiking trails in Nepal provide a great array of experiences ranging from challenging high mountain passes to peaceful valleys as well as cultural knowledge. Each route guarantees stunning landscapes, glimpses into local cultures, and epic adventures. Book your trip and enjoy one of the best things to do in Nepal.
