Nepal is home to many of the world’s tallest mountains which makes it an ideal place for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. Diverse terrain, wild landscape, and beautiful mountain vistas make the Himalayan country of Nepal a favorite destination for trekkers.
With so many incredible trekking options it’s sometimes become difficult to choose the best one for you. Thus, the below list of 5 best treks in Nepal will help you decide which trek is best for you and make your trekking in Nepal experience memorable.
1. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
If you want to experience the stunning Himalaya mountains in Nepal but are too short on time then Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal. It takes around 3-5 days to complete the whole trek. The starting point of the trek is the small town of Nayapul.
The one of the main reason to add Poon Hill trek in the best trek list is incredibly beautiful mountain scene and diverse culture. During the trek, you’ll pass through several villages like Tirkhedhunga, Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk. The trek passes through a variety of landscapes and different ethnic community with the majority of Gurung and Magar people.
The Poon Hill trek is suitable for anyone and if you wish to do it independently then it is completely doable. The trail is well-marked and dotted with teahouses. Thus, there will be no any issue regarding the accommodation and food on the whole trail.
Best Time To Go
The best seasons for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are Spring- March to May, and Autumn, September to November. The weather will be warm and mountain views are outstanding.
What You Will Experience
Poon Hill is one of the best vantage points for sunrise and sunset view over the Himalayas. When the sunrise strike on the mountain it shine like gold. You’ll witness stunning views of some highest peak including Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Machapucchre, Mt, Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak.
Difficulty Level
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the easiest short trek in Nepal. You’ll need a basic level of fitness as you’ll be walking a few miles for at least 5 days. Therefore, prior to your trek you can do some physical exercise like jogging, running, cycling, and swimming.
Essential Tips
A trekking pole is generally recommended as there are some steep sections and tons of the stairs in the trail. So, the pole will help you walk up and down in these steps. Before going on this trek remember to check in with your doctor. You may want to pack a packable rain jacket for your trip.
2. Everest Base Camp Trek
Trekking to the base of the world’s largest peak Mt. Everest is the legend. You’ve been hearing about it for your entire life. Everest Base Camp trek is the worldwide famous treks for its awesome views of the world’s highest mountains. Throughout the trek you’ll see the magical landscape amidst the stunning mountain backdrops. The unique Sherpa culture is another highlight during the whole trek.
Taking a most adventurous flight to Lukla you’ll begin your trekking expedition. With the great views of near sky touching peaks you’ll pass through several Sherpa settlement and reach Everest Base Camp (5,380 m) and Kala Patthar (5,555 m). From the top of the rock, you’ll see the Khumbu Glacier which is the world’s largest glacier.
Best Time to Go
Like many other popular treks, the best seasons for Everest Base Camp trek is Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). The true time to summit Everest is in April and May, so you’ll see colorful backpacking tents with mountaineers preparing themselves for the climb. During these seasons the skies are clear and the surrounding mountain views are outstanding.
What You Will Experience
You’ll get majestic views of the world’s largest peak including Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche Peak, Meera Peak, and Island Peak. So, have your camera lens ready to capture those breathtaking mountain vistas. Visit one of the ancient monasteries of the Khumbu region i.e, Tengboche Monastery.
Difficulty Level
Trekking to the foothill of the highest mountain in the world is an adventure of life but it is not an easy task. Though there are not steep climbing throughout the trail the biggest issue most of the trekkers face is the altitude. So, let your body to acclimatize by walking slow and staying hydrated.
Essential Tips
Due to its popularity, the trail is a bit crowded especially during the peak trekking seasons like spring and autumn. So, it is a good idea to do advance booking for flights and accommodations. Also, make sure to get travel insurance which covers at least 5,445 m altitude and helicopter rescue as well.
3. Annapurna Circuit Trek
One of the reasons to add Annapurna Circuit Trek in the list of the best treks in Nepal is a diverse landscape with good mountain views. The lower land of the trail is rich in the dense rhododendron forests and greenery hills.
Due to the diverse scenery and culture, the Annapurna Circuit is one of our top picks of best treks in Nepal. Basically, it takes 17-19 days to complete the entire circuit. The trek starts at 800 meters altitude and climbs every day until you reach the Thorong La Pass at 5,450 meters above the sea level.
Best Time to Go
In general, March-May and September-November mark the best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Treks. During this time, the pleasant weather eases your walk. There is a very low chance of rainfall.
If you visit in Spring, you’ll have a blissful walk along beautiful dense rhododendron forests. And the clear sky offers greater views of snow-clad mountains, lush forests, and surrounding landscapes. Besides, trekking in the off seasons means you’ll get enough time with nature. You’ll get a chance to walk in the peaceful trails.
What You Will Experience
Annapurna Circuit trail offers you stunning views of Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Annapurna II, Mt. Annapurna III, Mt. Gangapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manaslu, and Himchuli. Get a close insight of diverse ethnic communities including Brahmins, Chhetris, Magars, Tamangs, Gurungs, and Thakalis.
Difficulty Level
Annapurna Circuit Trek is basically considered as a moderately difficult trek. The trek traverse through the varied terrains including rocky, steeply, and slippery. The trek also involves a lot of staircases which can add difficulty than walking on a straight path.
Additionally, the high and varying altitude also causes some difficulty during the trek. But with the appropriate training, mental preparation, and the positive attitude you can complete this trek.
Essential Tips
The weather of the Annapurna region, especially at the higher altitude, is totally unpredictable. So, you must prepare yourself for changing weather conditions. Also, bring plenty of cash with yourself as most of the teahouses, cafes, restaurant rarely accepts credit cards. Also, ATMs machines along the trails are not reliable.
4. Manaslu Circuit Trek
If you’re looking something remote and quiet trekking trail then consider Manaslu Circuit Trek. This trek is far peace and tranquil than the Annapurna or Everest region. You’ll trek around Mt. Manaslu which is the 8th highest mountain in the world. Though the trail is entirely challenging for avid trekkers it would be a bundle of fun enjoying various type of terrain.
Due to its remoteness, Manaslu Circuit Trek is in our list for trekking trails in Nepal. The major highlight of the trek is passing over the Larkya La Pass which stands at over 5,000 m above sea level. This pass is often considered as one of the most dramatic passes in Nepal and offers spectacular mountain vistas. Thus, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek in Nepal.
Best Time to Go
The major time for Manaslu Circuit Trek is from March to May and September to November. This is due to the stable weather condition, neither the temperature will be hot as summer or cold as the winter. The sky remains clear and you can enjoy the stunning mountain views. Besides, the spring is a perfect time to see the whole forests trail turning into a beautiful garden blooming with colorful rhododendrons flowers.
What You Will Experience
Glorious mountain views world eight highest peak Mt. Manaslu. You’ll also get the awesome view of other highest peak including Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Annapurna South, Mt. Annapurna III, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, and Ganesh Himal.
Difficulty Level
It is normally graded as the strenuous trek. Though it doesn’t require previous trekking or mountaineering experience you need to be physically and mentally fit. Crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 m above sea level is challenging as well as adventurous part of this trekking route.
During the trek, daily you’ve to walk for several hours on different terrains which demand strong physical determination. So, prepare yourself before the trek with enough physical exercise like jogging, running, cycling, hiking, and swimming.
Essential Tips
If you’re planning to do this trek especially during the peak season it’s wise to book ahead of time as accommodation can get scarce. Likewise, you should carry water purification tablets as a bottle of water will be expensive as you go high and also it adds pollution.
5. Langtang Valley Trek
When peoples say trekking in Nepal, most people automatically think about Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp. Nonetheless, Nepal is filled with lots of amazing treks. Among all of them, one is Langtang Valley Trek. Actually, most of the trekker prefer to combine Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Trek.
Langtang Valley Trek is one of the best options for those who are limited on time. Located in the north towards, Langtang Valley is famously known as the “Valley of Glacier ”Also, it is one of the great trek because it’s less touristy. You will find less trekkers than on other famous trekking trails. So you’ll get tons of chances to be the only one staying at the teahouse and enjoy the hospitality of the local people.
Best Time to Go
The best seasons to trek Langtang are spring and autumn. Spring stretches from March to May and autumn is from September to December. The weather conditions are in your favor.
What You Will Experience
The trail of Langtang Valley will mesmerize you with the stunning view of Langtang range. You’ll hike to the summit of peak called Tserko Ri, which is also the highest point of the trek. From the top of the peak, you’ll get stunning Himalayan views of Mount Langtang Living and surrounding peaks.
Difficulty Level
The trek is normally graded as a moderate sometimes with longer walks and higher altitudes. In some place there are steep ascends and descends. You will require a basic level of fitness to enjoy the trek. So, train your body a few weeks before the trek. Also, get the best trekking backpack and pack light really light!
Essential Tips
If you are doing trekking for the first time, it is a good idea to opt for a trekking guide. Guides are always helpful as they know the region and locals. Also, if you have altitude sickness problem, consult with your doctor before trek.
The Final Words
Trekking is a fantastic way to get close to nature and learn about culture, and way of life of a country. No matter, whichever trek you choose to do from the above list of best treks in Nepal, you’ll get enthralling and lifetime memorable experience.