Trekking in Nepal sounds quite advanced for some travellers but with the right planning there are options for all levels. Trekking here provides you the opportunity to explore the beauty of Nepal from a different perspective and really get out there and be with nature. But where do you start? Here are some ideas on how to choose your route and the top visited trails when in Nepal.
How to choose the right trail for you?
If you are planning a trekking holiday in Nepal you must do some research first. But you also need to think about your own capability and what you want to achieve or get out of your holiday. How long do you want to spend walking? Do you only have a few days or do you have a few weeks to spend exploring? The time will make a big difference on which trek you choose to complete.
Your fitness is also a big factor. If you are unfit then you should avoid the more difficult and remote routes as you put yourself and your fellow group members in danger. Conversely, if you are ready for a challenge you will want to stay away from the easier, busier trails.
There’s also the cultural side of your visit to consider. If spending time learning about the local culture is important to you, choose a trek where you can explore and stay in local mountain villages and spend time with the people who live here.
Now you have thought about what kind of trek you want to complete, here are five examples of some of the best trekking holidays you will find in Nepal.
Everest Base Camp
Probably the most well known and popular trek in Nepal. A trek to Everest base camp in an awesome feat. Spend between 12 and 15 days in Nepal to complete this trek depending on route and acclimatisation days all with the help of the experienced Sherpa people.
Nothing will prepare you for the amazing sight of being so close to the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. As well as the height of your trek Kala Patthar standing at a breath-taking 5,600 meters, providing fantastic views across the valleys are nearby peaks.
During the trek you will stay in guesthouses and lodges along the route and the area is surprisingly connected due the number of trekkers who are visiting at any one time.
If you are looking for a moderately difficult trek to tick off your bucket list then this is a great one to choose. Just remember this is about the achievement about reaching base camp rather than the variety of the trek as you will usually take the same route up and down.
Annapurna circuit
This trek really showcases the amazing scenery the Himalayas has to offer. Averaging at 14 days, it is quite a long trek but there’s plenty to see and many stops to make. The terrain is excellent for trekking and there are plenty of tea houses and lodges along the route to make your experience more comfortable.
Highlights of the Annapurna trail include Crossing the world’s widest pass, the Thorong La Pass standing at 5,416 meters, and tackling varied altitudes along the route. You’ll also see the Kali Gandaki gorge, which is the world’s deepest gorge.
Start in Beshishar and trek to Bulbule making stops in Pisang, Manang and Josoman amongst many others. Then finish your trek viewing sunrise at Poonhill before making your way back to Nayapool. to Pokhara.
This trek is excellent for all abilities even beginners and offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll enjoy local culture, amazing diverse wildlife and absolutely stunning views including the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri.
Poonhill Trek
If you want to dip your toe into the trekking world in Nepal then this is the trek for you. Only spend a few days walking here but experience what its like to explore the gorgeous routes Nepal has to offer. Poonhill trek is an easy to moderate trek which regularly fit beginners will easily complete.
Highlights of this short trek includes the cultural experience of Ghandruk village, the beautiful sunrise and views from Poonhill and the nearby city of Pokhara to explore after you complete.
The treks rough route for 5 days is as follows: start in Kathmandu to Pokhara then make your way through Nayapul to Ulleri. The third day you will trek to Ghorepani then on to Tadhapani on day 4. Complete your trek on the last day to Ghandruk then back to Pokhara.
As this is a shorter trek it can be very busy especially in peak season so you must remember the trails will be full of other trekkers just like your group.
Langtang Trek
If you have a shorter time frame then this is the best trek to choose. Taking about 7 days to complete, this route reaches the peak of Tserko at an altitude of 4,984 m. You’ll trek through traditional villages and Tibetan monasteries and have an authentic cultural experience.
To the north of Kathmandu, the Langtang valley is found between mountainous peaks to both the north and south. Trek through rhododendron and bamboo forests and see animal wildlife, beautiful waterfalls and amazing hot springs.
The area is not too remote and the trek is described as moderately difficult. So, if you are looking for a place to get away from it all and experience an authentic trek in Nepal and Tibet this is the one for you.
Your itinerary includes visiting Syabrubesi, trekking from Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa, exploring this area, then on to Rimche before returning to Kathmandu.
Manaslu Trek
This is a challenging trek which usually takes around 14 days to complete. Get ready for a fantastic and relatively newly opened route which takes you through some tough remote landscapes. It may be tough but this trek affords you some fantastic views.
Manaslu is the 8th highest mountain peak in the world and is found near to the border between Nepal and Tibet. The area has an amazing cultural heritage which is almost untouched by tourism and unique and diverse scenery to explore.
Highlights of the trek include the climb to Shyala for an astonishing panoramic view of Himalchuli. The chance to explore Tibetan monasteries and meet local people. Not to mention the walk across the exceptional bamboo bridge.
The trek starts at Arughat and ends following the Marshyangdi River to reach Tal village. Taking you through villages such as Lho, Larkya Phedi and Bimtang. Accommodation is varied during this trip, including lodges, camping and local village houses. Overall this is a tough but exciting trek that offers a different way of seeing this diverse part of the world.
Which trek will you choose?
As you can see there are many routes and trails to choose from, some more challenging than others. So, if you are planning to try trekking in Nepal there’s a trek out there to suit you. Which trek would you choose? An epic climb to Everest Base Camp, a short trek to see the sunrise from Poon hill or something in between?