10 Best treks in Nepal [2021 UPDATED]

Let’s embark on the top trekking destinations of Nepal around the foothills of the Himalayas witnessing centuries’ old religious shrines, unique cultures interacting with very hospitable people, and following the classic trekking routes. The adventurous yet delightful treks allow you to explore the ethnic, cultural, regional, and religious diversity with the mesmerizing mountain ranges all around. Each day reaches new places and explores new things, places, and ways of living that knocks you with the feeling of great lifetime memories.

Ranging from Kanchenjunga in the east, trekkers can choose the bases of Mt. Api and Saipal in the west. From a day hike near the city of Kathmandu or Pokhara, you can choose 120 days long “The Great Himalayan Trails” for trekking. Along with that 415 summits are already opened for mountaineering and thousands of people move towards the summits each year. Adventure seekers can organize several adventure sports including sky diving, paragliding, and mountain biking in the Himalayas as well for more enthralling experiences.

You must have seen the spectacular combination of nature and culture of Nepal virtually and many of you are dreamed to be there as well. There might be a vast difference between seeing and being in those destinations. Don’t just see it virtually but embark on Nepal for your next vacation to witness the unmatched natural beauty that this beautiful country Nepal has to offer.

Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be smacked with a dizzying array of shops, cafes, small shops, religious shrines like temples and stupas, chaotic workings of airy streets thronged with travelers alongside hotels and bars in Thamel-a tourist hub of Kathmandu. From the window or balcony of the hotel, sightsee the dazzling mountain peaks or lustrous green hills filled with rhododendrons and other trees. Trekking in any region, you will be welcomed with the never-ending treasure of hospitality by the kind, helpful and smiling locals.

If we try listing the best hiking routes in Nepal, there will be a long list, However Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and Upper Mustang come in the topmost position. However, Dolpo, Humla, Rara, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu regions less-visited yet perfect off the beaten trails and cannot be ignored. I have listed the top 10 best treks in Nepal for your next holiday.

1. Everest Base Camp Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• A scenic flight to and from Lukla (Tenzing Hillary Airport)
• Namche Bazaar- the largest Sherpa town and great trading hub entire the Khumbu region.
• Trek passing charming Sherpa settlements of Lukla, Phakding, Monjo, Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Pheriche, Gorekshep, and many others tasting their cultures and lifestyles.
• Trek passing serene alpine woods soaking up the spectacular views of mighty peaks of the world.
• Hike to Kala Patthar and savor the perfect views of notable mountains as Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho-Oyu, Makalu, and several neighboring peaks.
•  The religious shrines as monasteries, Chortens, gompas, prayer flags, Mane walls, prayer wheels, and others throughout the journey.

Let’s hike to the base of the tallest peak- Mt. Everest (8848.86m), one of the best treks of Nepal which is the dream of every adventure enthusiast from the entire planet. Beginning the cultural and religious tour of the vibrant city of Kathmandu, the actual trek commences after a 35 minutes short flight to Lukla. Walking alongside the rivers, passing the diverse landscapes, terrains, ethnic settlements, you reach the foot of Everest.

Standing at 5545 at Kala Patthar, one can witness the panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Lobuche, and Khumbu Glacier vividly. The first rays of sun over those peaks look astonishing. Surrounded by the mighty peaks, and viewing in front, trekkers feel the best moment of their life. The stone steps, narrow paths, great changes in elevations, steep ascends and descends, deeply forested lands may create some challenges during the trek. However, trekkers forget all of them once they step toward their dreamed destination.

Being the high elevated journey, you need to acclimatize properly for Everest Base Camp Trek. Generally, trekkers acclimatize in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche villages before embarking ahead.

2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• The captivating Annapurna Base Camp proposing overwhelming sights of Annapurna I, II, III and South, Gangapurna, Gandharva Chuli, Machapuchare, and their neighboring peaks.
• Begin the journey with an overnight stop at the gorgeous city of Pokhara.
• The journey follows the charming settlements settled on the Annapurna massifs.
• A short hike to Poonhill to capture the magnificent sunrise over Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri massifs.
• As the trek is a gradual ascends and descends, trekkers have adequate chances to accommodate the surroundings.
• Visit two mountain base camps; Annapurna and Machhapuchre.
• Trek under an awning of mixed woods through the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Annapurna Base Camp trek is another best trek of Nepal after Everest Base Camp that commands awe-inspiring popularity and fan following amongst the adventure seekers as well as occasional hikers from the entire planet. The journey passes through the blossoming rhododendron woods, beautiful ethnic settlements of different tribes, terraced fields of rice, wheat, buckwheat, millet, potatoes, and mustard along with magnificent views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges, Machhapuchre, Mardi Himal, and their neighboring peaks.

During the trek, you can walk to two of the mountain base camps viz. Machhapuchre and Annapurna Base Camps. As the maximum elevation of this trek is only 4130m, there will less probability of acute mountain sickness compared to other high elevated journeys. Standing at Poonhill, Annapurna Base Camp, and Jhinu Danda, one gets perfect mountain sceneries.

It is an ample opportunity to soak in the sheer beauty and diversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, cultural performances of locals, traditions, religious shrines, natural scenery, and many others. Pokhara, a scenic valley offers a lot to explore. From the beautiful lakes, trekkers can explore different caves, temples, and other religious shrines. Hiking to the World Peace Pagoda situating atop, you can get both natural and religious flavor. The valley view, view of Annapurna and Machhapuchre massifs from here is astonishing. Without much ado, let’s explore every nitty-gritty about the ABC Trek.

3. Annapurna Circuit Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• Hike passing Thorong La (5416m) - one of the highest passes of the world viewing the panoramic valleys of both Manang and Mustang districts, and amazing mountain peaks.
• Embark the exciting journey on the bottoms of the world’s 7th and 10th tallest peaks namely Annapurna (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m).
• Ghyaru- one of the most favored vantage points offers panoramic views of the Himalayas including Annapurna ranges, Gangapurna Mountain, Lamjung Peak, Pisang Pak, and Tilicho peak.
• Side trips of Gangapurna Lake or Braga monastery while acclimatizing at Manang village
• Several apple orchids, sub-tropical to alpine forests, dazzling waterfalls, and torrential rivers as Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki.
• Tilicho Lake, Poonhill, Meso-Kanta Pass, some of the side trips which can be combined with this trek.
• Witness the world’s deepest gorge at Kali Gandaki River and refresh yourself in the natural hot spring at Tatopani.
• With a diverse climatic variation and rich biodiversity spread throughout the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki River valleys.
• Explore diverse cultures and lifestyles of different ethnic groups including Brahmins, Chheteries, Manangi, Gurungs, and others.
• Explore religious spots; Braga Monastery, Tal Barahi temple, Bindawasini temple, and Muktinath Temple are major ones.
• Explore Pokhara valley; get insights into religious, natural, and cultural shrines around.

Annapurna Circuit Trek, one of the classic yet the best trek of Nepal and one of the most beautiful high-elevated hiking trails winds its way via the foothills of Nepal’s 7th and 10th tallest peaks namely Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Annapurna. An astounding journey of the Annapurna region, this trek crosses an elevation of 5416m/17769ft at Thorong La pass.

Starting the journey from lower elevation around 800-900m above sea level, it reaches above snowline delivering expansive views, diverse environments, and magnificent mountain sceneries.

A great teahouse trek of Annapurna Circuit has plenty of accommodation accessibility. It is possible to trek solo or in a group, with a guide/porter or without. Trekking such a highly elevated and long journey with a guide and porter will be more enjoyable, hassle-free, and easier.

4. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• Trek around the 8th tallest peak of this planet-Mt. Manaslu (8163m/26781ft)
• Explore wildlife, changed vegetation, local cultures, rituals, and traditional practices of Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area.
• Pass Larkey-La one of the high passes of Nepal viewing the dramatic views peals of Mansiri range.
• Experience a combination of Nepali and Tibetan culture.
• Make your journey passing the charming villages of Khani Gaun, Setibas, Nyak, Namrung
• Pass through the villages of Soti Khola, Machha Khola, Jagat, Philim, Deng, Ghap, Lho Samagaon, and Samdo to cross the Larkya La reaching Bhimthang before reaching Dharapani-the ending point of the trek.
• Walk on the border of Nepal and Tibet.
• Trek in the restricted area; you are not allowed without guides and porters.
• Rocky trails, unspoiled and unparalleled routes, low populations, quaint and secluded environment; a truly thrilling experience.

We cannot do away with Manaslu Circuit from the best trek in Nepal. Embark your journey around the 8th highest peak, the Manaslu experiencing one of the best mountain walking entire the planet. A great alternative to Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base camp trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek passes the villages which are still far from modernization and development.

Beginning the journey from the sub-tropical atmosphere, you gradually ascend to the alpine climatic zone during your trek. Trekkers shall eyewitness the plains and rocky ridges, large pasturelands, with awe-inspiring mountain views of Himalayan ranges from Mansiri to Annapurna.

The actual trek starts at Soti Khola. Soti Khola can be reached via an 8-9 hour drive from Kathmandu. Following the Budi Gandaki Valley passing a distinct forest of pines, oaks, fir, and seasonal flowers. In the spring, the entire hill looks colorful as the rhododendron and other spring flowers bloom throughout. With the gradual incline, you reach the highest point of Larkey-La (5106m/16752ft). During your acclimatization days, you can have plenty of side trips and exploration of local rituals and cultural practices.  

5. Langtang Valley Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• An-awe inspiring views of snow-capped peaks, as Langtang Ri, Ganesh Himal, Ganjala Peak, Langsisa, Jugal Himal, and Langtang Himal.
• A stunning scene of Langtang valley, glacier, and mountain ranges while climbing Kyanjin Ri or  Tsergo Ri.
• Authentic experience of Tibetan Buddhist cultures and the way of living.
• Trek passing the Langtang Valley- the valley of glaciers.
• Deep rhododendrons, pine, fir, and oak forests, crossing alpine pastures and observing the diverse range of flora and fauna of the Langtang National Park.
• Old religious shrines as Kyanjin Gompa, Langtang Gompa, Mane walls, Chotrtens, and monasteries.
• Small teahouses throughout the route with accommodation and food amenities.
• Nearest and lesser-visited trekking destination from Kathmandu valley.
• Seasonal wildflowers, rhododendron blooms.

One of the nearest yet the best trekking destinations from Kathmandu valley- The Langtang Valley Trek is characterized by steep, jungle-covered vales in the lower altitudes trek passes via barren alpine valleys, wide meadows/pastures reaching the Langtang valley. In the spring months, you get the entire hills filled with rhododendron and other wildflowers.

You can get in the Langtang region after a 6-7 hours’ drive from Kathmandu. Entering the Langtang National Park, you can continue trek passing deep woods, wildlife, and distinct fauna including some rare species with spectacular views of Langtang mountain ranges.

Langtang was severely affected by the devastative earthquake of 2015. The village of Langtang was destroyed completely by an avalanche and hundreds of locals and some foreigners lost their lives. Most of the houses were affected and the trekking trail was destroyed. However, most of the teahouses are rebuilt, the reconstruction of the shrines is almost done, the trekking trails have been repaired and everything is being back in its original position.

6. Upper Mustang Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• Centuries-old monasteries, caves, chortens, stupas, prayer walls, and settlements.
• High-elevated deserted lands, multi-hued gorges, prayer flags, fairy tale gompas, blood-red fortified monasteries, and river valleys.
• Iconic settlements of Chele, Geling, Tsarang, Lho-Manthang, Drakmar, Syangmochen, Chhusang, Muktinath, and Jomsom.
• Spectacular views of colossal Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri mountain ranges.
• Trek on the high Tibetan plateau witnessing centuries’ old Tibetan cultures and religions.

Trekking Upper Mustang is to discover several centuries’ old monasteries, gompas, chortens, caves situated behind the legendry Himalayan peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. A restricted area of Nepal was isolated for centuries and was officially opened in 1992 for foreign visitors.

As the journey begins, following the riverside of Kaligandaki passes pocket-sized small ethnic settlements, semi-deserted lands, large caves, and untouched areas of the Mustang region. You will be a lucky guy among many to discover the magnificent, well-preserved treasure.

The walled city of Lho-Manthang, a monastery of Tsarang, Namgyal Monastery, Muktinath temple, apple orchids of Marpha, and some steep passes are some of the core attractions. Most of the areas of the Upper Mustang trek is dry and barren as it receives very little rainfall where trekking is possible even in the monsoon periods (June to August).

7. Gokyo Lakes Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• Eye-witness the exceptional beauty of Gokyo Valley and pristine Gokyo Lakes (five lakes)
• The best alternative of Everest Base Camp Trek.
• The extraordinary sight of some infamous ‘eight-thousanders together with  Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho-Oyu, and Mt. Makalu and mesmerizing sunrise view from the vantage point of Gokyo Ri.
• Cultural performances and the way of living of Sherpas in the settlements of Lukla, Namche, Dole, Macchermo, and Gokyo.
• Sagarmatha National Park, the highest elevated national park on the planet, and witness protected flora and fauna.
• Visit a very sacred region of Gokyo Lake, the shrine to worship by many Hindu and Buddhist believers around the globe during Janai Purnima- A full moon day falls in August/September according to the lunar calendar.

The best alternative of classic Everest Base Camp Trek, this Gokyo Lakes trek is best for viewing the mountain peaks, glaciers, valley, and pristine lakes. 4 of the 14 tallest peaks of the world can be seen from this single trip including the highest peak of the planet- Mt. Everest. Gokyo Lake. One of the most remarkable features is the view of the tremendous ice ridge between Cho Oyu and Gyachung (2922m) located in the Khumbu region

The journey continues leaving the main trail of Everest Base Camp Trek towards Dole from Namche Bazaar. Continuing the trek passing the village of Macchermo, we reach the valley of Gokyo. You can either return following the same route or pass Cho-La and visit EBC and Kalapatthar.  Interacting with the locals, visiting the religious and cultural monuments, you can explore the Tibetan-influenced Himalayan Sherpa cultures and lifestyles.

Passing through Sagarmatha National Park, the remarkable sight of diverse flora and fauna shall amaze you. Airy suspension bridges, deep river gorges, thick rhododendron forests, and authentic Himalayan wildlife add the beauty of Gokyo Lakes Trek.

8. Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• Poonhil, the popular vantage point for picturesque mountain vistas including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal as well as Manaslu.
• Climb more than 3300 steps
• Best sunrise and sunset views over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.
• Pass via the Himalayan trail filled with seasonal flowers including rhododendron in spring.
• Visit Gurung village- Ghandruk, Gurung museum and explore cultures they follow.
• Magnificent villages, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, torrential rivers, rice fields, cultivated lands, terraces, meadows, and rhododendron forests.

Popular as Annapurna Panorama or Annapurna Sunrise or Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, the Ghorepani Poonhill trek is a short, easy, family and one of the best treks in Nepal. Stepping at the viewpoint of Poonhill, trekkers will be amazed by the mesmerizing views of the high mountain peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu mountain ranges. Standing at 3210m above sea level, the adjacent villages, hills, rivers, and valleys can be witness vividly.

Being the lower elevated journey, there will be no risk of Acute Mountain Sickness et.al. Exploring the scenic beauty of Pokhara, you start journey passing thickly forested lands, tiny settlements changed vegetation, you reach Poonhill. This trek can be organized almost every month of the year which does not receive extreme cold and heavy snowfall. In the monsoon (June-August), the heavy participation may add a bit of challenge.

9. Everest High Passes Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• Mesmerizing views of the Himalayan ranges; can be witnessed in 4 mountains above 8000m.
• Hiking the entire Khumbu region; covering most of the dreamed destinations.
• Stunning views of Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo valley from Gokyo Ri.
• Religious shrines; monasteries, Chortens, prayer wheels, Mane stones, high airy suspension bridges.
• Crossing three adventurous passes; Renjola, Chola and Kongma-La
• Antique Tibetan Monasteries and Tibetan culture.
• Views of Khumbu Icefall, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Thanserku, Ama Dablam, Khumbu Glacier.

Another best trip of Everest region Nepal, Everest High Passes Trek crosses three high passes of Everest region viz. Renjo La (4790 m), Cho La (5300 m), and Kongma La (5540 m). This single trip covers all the core attractions of the Everest Region and is the best choice for adventure enthusiasts. The view of the Himalayas' entire Everest region can be witnessed during the trek.

Isolated valleys, tiny settlements, terraces, hills, and several other snowcapped peaks enclosed by memorable mountains will be explored in the trek. Gokyo valley, pristine holy lakes of Gokyo, Khumbu valley, dynamic Namche Bazaar, Bhotekoshi river valley, Imja Tse Valley are some of the other attractions of this journey.

Passing the adventurous passes via shifting glaciers and lunar landscapes, get close to Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and Ama Dablam and their neighboring peaks from the different vantage spots. Trekkers shall reach higher than the Alps during their three passes.

10. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Major Highlights of the Trek

• Explore the territory of the 3rd highest peak of the world-Mt. Kanchenjunga.
• Is perfect for adventurers seeking long and thrilling experiences.
• High mountain cultures, traditions, and lifestyles far behind this post-modern society.
• Dramatic views of the mountains nestled in the northern side of eastern Nepal.
• Trek passing sub-tropical valleys to alpine meadows via rhododendron hills.
• Interact with the locals, get a glimpse of their daily life.
• Explore wildlife including the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and rare snow leopard in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. 

Popularly known as the “Five Treasures of the Great Snow” viz. Gold, Silver, Precious Stones, Grain, and Holy Scriptures, Kanchenjunga is the third tallest peak in the world also shares the border with India and China (Tibet). Walking on the foot of it gives the best hiking experiences.

The trekking route for Kanchenjunga Base Camp passes via the Arun Valley, the deepest valley of the planet and one of the most beautiful regions of Nepal. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is another highlight of the trek that covers 2035 square kilometers of territory and is the home of diverse rare flora and fauna.

En route, trekkers can explore changed landscapes, river valleys, wide pastures, glacial moraines, rocky ridges, and thick rhododendron forests. Stunning views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and others can be seen from the various vantage spots. The culture mixture of Sherpa, Rai, Gurung, and Limbu communities can be witnessed during the trek.