The sight of the giant Himalayas from the front row seat is forevermore euphoric. There is nothing as blissful as witnessing the white snow-covered mountains shimmering under the vivid sun. These knife-edge peaks crease over the blue sky making one feel close to it and yet so far to reach. Only the brave hearts can take in the crisp mountain air that fills their lungs as they walk past the dramatic passes and quaint villages through the spectacular trekking routes. Nepal is known to offer such experiences to every keen trekker.
While Nepal offers ample trekking routes for avid trekkers to choose from, here are the 12 best trekking destinations in Nepal. A journey along these trekking routes can never go wrong.
- Khopra Ridge Trek
Following the trekking route of the Annapurna region is always ecstatic. Drifting away from the teeming trails of the Annapurna region, the Khopra ridge trek takes you through the remote trails. You will pass through the quaint villages making your stay in the community tea houses along the way. As you pass through the Gurung villages, you will enjoy the spectacular views of Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. The solitary trails of Khopra ridge allow you to relish the panoramic views of these giant mountains as you delve deeper into the uncanny trails of the Annapurna region.
Another attraction of the Khopra Ridge trek is the trail leading up to the Khayer lake which is just a few hours’ walks from the Khopra Ridge.
Makalu is the 5th highest mountain in the world with an elevation of 8,481m, and trekking up to its base camp is not just challenging but is also equally rewarding. The trial along the way is surely strenuous but the diverse terrains and the wilderness allows you to savor the natural beauty of Nepal. Different from other popular trekking routes, the trek to Makalu base camp is remote and less frequently visited. This will allow you to appreciate the terraced farms, waterfalls, and glaciers in solitude.
On the way, you will move past dense jungles, and even high passes – Shipton La and Keke La. As you will be trekking in the Makalu Barun National Park, you might catch a glimpse of exotic musk deer or even a red panda. This trek is topped with an astounding view of Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and even a rare view of the Kangshung face of Everest.
- Dhaulagiri Circuit trek
Dhaulagiri circuit trek takes you from tended farmland on the foothills of the Himalayas to the high alpine pastures and uninhibited valleys. Along the way, you will witness a close-up view of several 8 thousand peaks which is both enthralling and breathtaking. The trails pass through lesser-visited areas of the Annapurna region into the wilderness. You will pass through Magar villages that grow thinner as you gain altitude.
From the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, you will make your way towards French Pass into the hidden valley. You then make your way down to Jomson through Dhampus pass and head towards Mustang. While the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal, it is just as rewarding and a worthwhile experience.
- Kanchenjunga circuit trek
Kanchenjunga, meaning ‘five treasures of the great snow’, stands tall as the third highest mountain in the world. While the mountain itself attracts intrepid trekkers, the trail along the way is exuberant. This less trodden route takes you through the remote part of Nepal allowing you to marvel at the magnificent views of soaring Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Mera Peak.
Along with the natural grandeur, the Kanchenjunga trek allows you to have a first-hand experience of the cultural diversity of Nepal. This trek takes you through the remote villages of Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu and experiences their unique culture and traditions.
- Upper mustang trek
Unlike other trekking trails of Nepal, Upper Mustang trek has distinct landscapes found in shades of brown and crumbling sandstone cliffs. This arid desert-like terrain resembles the Tibetian plateau. This region lies on the desert rain shadow of the Himalayas making it a perfect place to trek during summer and monsoon season. During the trek, you will be able to witness the spectacular views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna.
Mustang was once a kingdom of its own sealed off from the outside world. It wasn’t open to tourists until 1992. This remote terrain retains its ancient culture and tradition even today casting off a spiritual vibe to all the visitors. Trek to upper mustang not only allows you to immerse in its diverse terrains but also soaks you up in its intense Tibetian-influenced culture.
- Manaslu circuit trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek has been made popular with newly added accommodation since 2010. This trail takes you to the foothills of the world’s 8th highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu. This trek has all the great features that you would expect on a Himalayan trek. From lush valleys to amazing views of 8,000m peaks, you and marvel at it all. Also, you will circumnavigate Mt. Manaslu while relishing in the close-up view of the neighboring Himalayan peaks.
This trek is perfect if you are looking for a more isolated and adventurous trail and travelers must obtain permits. The trekking route passes through Manaslu Conservation Area teeming with flora and fauna. With this trail, you will get a chance to delve into the unique cultures of the remote villages around this most prized Himalayan peak. Well, for the souls willing to meander around the remote villages of Nepal and marvel at the ravishing views of the Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit Trek will be a remarkable pick.
Langtang valley trek is a classic trekking route of Nepal towards the northern side of Kathmandu. Through the trodden path, the trails of this trek offer panoramic views of majestic mountains in the lesser-explored region of Nepal. Langtang valley is famous for its glaciers which are around 70 in number. These glaciers are of different sizes and a sight for a sore eye. This is comparatively a short trek but leaves a lasting impact on its visitors.
During your Langtang valley trek, you will be walking through Langtang National park which is a habitat for snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and even red pandas. This trek begins from Syabrubesi through the leafy forest towards culturally rich typical Nepali villages. During the trek, you will not only be able to cherish the astounding natural vistas but also relish the unique cultures of Tamang ethnic groups.
If you are looking for a short trek with breathtaking views Mardi Himal Trek is the way to go. Mardi Himal, lying on the lap of Mt. Machhapuchhre, is a remarkable beauty that leaves anyone spellbound with its mystical aura. Mardi Himal Trek is much easier compared to the Annapurna Base Camp trek or the Everest base camp trek but is equally fascinating with gorgeous views of snowy mountains like Mardi Himal, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Hiunchuli. It hasn’t been long since its official launch but has been made a top pick by visitors from all around the world. This week-long trek has all the plus points of trekking in the Annapurna region with many isolated and adventure routes passing through dense forest.
Walking past hillside villages, visitors can experience the cultures and traditions of different ethnic groups like Gurung, Ghale, and Brahmins. It allows visitors to have unique local experiences. Mardi Himal Trek provides remarkable accommodation with the most hospitable locals waiting with warm food and a cozy bed.
Trekking trails in the Everest region are often teeming with avid trekkers resulting in crowded trails but for a very good reason. None of the other treks can beat the experience one can have while trekking in the Khumbu region. While Everest is most popular for its Everest Base camp trek, walking past the high passes of this region is equally rewarding. The Everest high passes trek requires you to cross over the three high passes – Cho La Pass, Renjo La pass, and Kongma La pass. This trek rises to an altitude as high as 5535 meters.
Annapurna region is another famous trekking region in Nepal after Everest. Trails in the Annapurna region take you through diverse terrains with a view of the mighty Annapurna range throughout the trails. The Annapurna circuit trek takes you around the Annapurna massif through the highest pass in the world and across the deepest gorge. You will cross the Thorong La Pass at 4,600 meters and the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki gorge. Along the way, you will marvel at the magnificent views of majestic mountains and drench in the cultures and traditions of ethnic settlements.
Annapurna base camp trek takes you to the foothills of Annapurna south. Along the way, you will come across several tranquil trails and outlandish villages of the Annapurna region. The trail passes through a dense jungle of rhododendron trees in the shadow of the towering mountains. Trekking to the Annapurna base camp is much like a snowy wonderland of Annapurna massif and its neighboring glaciers. Throughout the entire trek, you will find yourself mesmerized by the ravishing mountains towering right above you.
Trekking to the Everest base camp is on every avid trekker’s bucket list. After all, nothing is as inspiring as reaching the foothills of the world’s highest mountain, Everest. The journey is thrilling on its own not to mention the remarkable views of Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam from the vantage viewpoint of Kala Patthar.
While the views are spectacular, you will also get immersed in the Buddhist culture and the hospitality showed as you step into the backyards of Sherpas. You will even catch some spiritual vibe visiting the sacred Tengboche monastery. Even though the trail often tends to get busy, the view and experience it offers are worthwhile.
Tags: 12 Best Trekking Destinations in the Himalayas, 12 Best Trekking Destinations in the Nepal