At this point, it is obvious to say Nepal is a beautiful country with incredible trekking expeditions, cultural richness, welcoming locals, unexpected history, lush forests, gorgeous river valleys, unsurpassed landscapes, and more than half of our planet's 8,000 meters plus mountains.
Whether you want to participate in a trek in Nepal or looking to do a short and easy hike, the options are unlimited.
Given the geographical diversification of this country, there is a lot to explore alone in the hills and mountains. Mountains, the Himalayas, give life to some of the highest lakes in the world, rivers, streams, and verdant valleys. Whereas hills have created the perfect one-day hikes to multiple days of leisurely excursions around famous tourist cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Before you decide to do a trek in Nepal, you have to understand the Himalayas and how it is scattered around the northern part of the country (stretching from east to west) and offer quite a different trekking experience from one region to another. Likewise, you have to pick the best trek to suit your health, fitness, time, budget, comfort level, and previous trekking experience.
Do not worry, it's not that complicated, you just have to ask yourself a few questions and answer them genuinely.
The Himalayas have separated into different regions. The most famous trekking regions in Nepal are Khumbu (Everest), Langtang & Helambu, Annapurna, Mustang, and Manaslu. Whereas, trekking routes in Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Far West regions are less popular and very strenuous. All these regions are protected under national parks and conservation area regulations. Some of them are also restricted areas and demand a special permit to enter.
Below we have made a quick fact list for each region that will give you an overall look into these trekking regions.
Khumbu region (Everest)
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Langtang & Helambu region
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Annapurna region
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Mustang region
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Manaslu region
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Makalu region
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Kanchenjunga region
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Far West region
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The above chart will help you clear about trekking regions in Nepal, what they are, and the famous trekking trails in those regions. Now We are going to run down the top 10 trekking places in Nepal.
Everest base camp is a world-class trekking destination that offers a lifetime journey to travelers. It is the ultimate trek to the foot of Mount Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), the highest mountain in the world. Within the boundaries of Sagarmatha National Park, the EBC trail goes through lush forests and beautiful river valleys.
There are many small and big villages scattered around the Everest region. The Everest base camp trek offers intimate encounters with Sherpas, breathtaking mountain views, and a huge sense of achievement. The highest point of the trek is Kala Patthar, at 5,545 meters (18,192 ft).
The three high passes trek is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding trekking experiences in the Everest region. This trek takes hikers on a journey through the heart of the Khumbu region, home to some of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft).
Trekkers are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and high-altitude passes. The three passes themselves, Kongma La (5,540 m/18,176 ft), Cho La (5,420 m/17,782 ft), and Renjo La (5,360 m/17,560 ft), offer particularly breathtaking views and a feeling of triumph upon reaching the top.
The three high passes trek is not for the faint of heart. The trek is challenging, with steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and unpredictable weather. However, for those up to the challenge, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Annapurna base camp trek is a very popular trekking destination in the western Himalayas. The ABC trek explores the picturesque villages of the Annapurna region and beautiful rhododendron forests. This trek takes trekkers through a diverse landscape, from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude alpine meadows.
The trek offers a chance to experience the unique culture of the Gurung and Magar communities who inhabit the region. The Annapurna base camp trek is a moderate trek, suitable for hikers of all levels of experience. It is an adventurous journey to the foot of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft).
The Annapurna circuit trek is a classic trek that takes you around the Annapurna massif, which includes some of the highest peaks in the world, such as Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft). The trek starts in the lush lowlands of Nepal, where you will pass through traditional villages and terraced fields of rice paddies.
As you ascend, the landscape changes dramatically, and you will find yourself trekking through the arid desert of the Manang region. One of the highlights of this trek is Tilicho Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 ft), making it one of the highest lakes in the world. The trek to Tilicho Lake is a challenging one. You will need to ascend steep and rocky terrain.
After this lake comes the highest mountain pass in Nepal, Thorong La (5,416 m/17,769 ft). Crossing it is very strenuous and requires professional guidance. The trail then drops to Muktinath (3,762 m/12,343 ft), one of the significant holy sites, and further goes along the Kali Gandaki gorge to Tatopani. Our itinerary explores Ghorepani (2,874 m/9,429 ft) and Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,531 ft) before dropping down to Nayapul, where the trek ends.
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is widely known for its easy trekking route. It is one of the shortest treks near Pokhara, the city lakes. Also known as the Poon Hill trek, the trekking route explores the lower part of the Annapurna region. You will be trekking through dense forests, crossing many suspension bridges. The trail offers a peek into authentic Nepali village life.
The maximum altitude of the Ghorepani Poon hill trek is 3,210 meters (10,531 ft). It is a Poon hill viewpoint from where you can see gorgeous sunrise along with an expansive view of western Himalayan mountains. If you are looking for a quick gateway into the Himalayas, this trek is the one for you.
Langtang valley and Gosaikunda trek offer a unique blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking mountain views, and adventurous treks in the Langtang region. This trek takes you through the Langtang National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and is surrounded by the towering Himalayan mountain ranges.
The Langtang Valley is located just north of Kathmandu and is inhabited by the Tamang and Sherpa communities. The trail ascends through lovely villages like Lama Hotel (2,470 m/8,103 ft) and Langtang village (3,400 m/11,155 ft) to Kyanjin Gompa (3,860 m/12,664 ft). You will hike to Tserko Ri (5,033 m/16,512 ft)and descend to Lama Hotel. From here, the trail then ascends to Gosaikunda Lake.
Gosaikunda is a beautiful holy lake at 4,380 meters (14,370 ft). The Langtang Gosaikunda trek is a bit difficult, so it is best for experienced trekkers. The trek offers you a good insight into the daily lifestyle, culture, and beliefs of the Tamang communities. You will enjoy the guesthouse stay on this trek.
Manaslu circuit trek is a classic trekking route that circles around the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft), the eighth-highest peak in the world. This trek is considered one of the best off-the-beaten trekking routes in Nepal. The trek offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure.
Following the Budhi Gandaki river, the Manaslu circuit trail passes through terraced fields, waterfalls, rhododendron forests, and remote villages. As you trek higher, the landscape changes dramatically, and you are greeted by snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and alpine meadows. It is a restricted area trekking that comes with an expensive permit price tag.
The trail is less-crowded and secluded compared to the popular Everest and Annapurna regions. The route was opened for trekking in the 1990s. Since then, the Manaslu circuit trek has become popular among trekkers seeking a raw trekking experience in the Himalayas. To make the journey more adventurous, you can combine Tsum valley in the itinerary.
This trek crosses the Larkya La pass (5,106 m/16,752 ft), which is also the highest point of the trek. The Manaslu trek is strenuous and only advised for experienced trekkers.
On the Upper Mustang trek, you will travel to the hidden kingdom of Mustang, Lo Manthang (3,840 m/12,598 ft), which is also known as the last forbidden kingdom and the walled city. Located in the rain shadow area of the Himalayas, this trek is approachable in monsoon season too. Upper Mustang trek is considered one of the most exotic and adventurous trekking and offers an unparalleled experience.
One of the main highlights of the Upper Mustang trek is the cultural experience it offers. The region was once an independent kingdom and has its own distinct language, culture, and traditions. The area has remained isolated from the rest of Nepal and the world, which has allowed the people to preserve their unique way of life and traditions.
This trek is all about ancient monasteries, sky caves, chortens, and long mani walls. It is also a restricted area because of a number of reasons and offers landscapes, unlike any other trekking route in the Himalayas.
Located in the eastern part of the country, the Makalu base camp trek is known for its pristine natural beauty and remote wilderness, which makes it a great adventure for those seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience. The trek takes you through the Arun Valley, one of the deepest valleys in the world, and then up to the base of Mount Makalu (8,481 m/27,825 ft), the fifth-highest mountain in the world.
The trail passes through the Makalu Barun National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and snow leopards. The Makalu base camp trek is also known for its cultural diversity. The trail is remote and isolated.
Unlike the famous base camp treks, you will only encounter a handful of trekkers on the trail. This makes for a more peaceful and authentic experience, as you can truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings without the distractions of crowds and commercialization.
The Kanchenjunga circuit trek is named after the third-highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga (8,586 m/28,169 ft), which is located on the border of Nepal and India. The trek follows a circuitous route around the Kanchenjunga massif, which offers spectacular views of the mountain and the surrounding peaks, as well as an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.
This trek is a strenuous one, with some steep ascents and descents, high-altitude passes, and challenging terrain. The trail explores the unspoiled natural beauty of the region. The trek takes you through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear. It is another great trek for an experienced trekker with a maximum elevation gain of 5,143 meters (16,873 ft).
Apart from these packages, we also have many short treks in Nepal. You can pretty much customize any trekking package with us at Mountain Ram Adventure and make it a short trek. Likewise, we winter treks in Nepal packages too that will let you enjoy the surreal beauty of the Himalayas at its best.
Whether you want to do a short trek in Nepal, a 1-week trek in Nepal, or a long trek, we have every option for you. Get in touch with us now to book your trekking in Nepal 2023 adventure at the best price.