The Best 5 Hiking and Trekking Routes in Nepal
Once upon a time, Nepal was part of the Tethys Sea and then it rose with the Himalayas as a paradise on earth. Owing to geographic history, Nepal exhibits a great variety of topography spanning from lowland forests to ice-clad mountain peaks. Though, Mount Everest is what attracts most people to visit Nepal, there is much more to explore throughout the country in terms of nature, adventure, history, spirituality and culture. It is one of the most beautiful places to explore, a genuine treat for the eyes.
Several people from across the world are drawn to this mountainous nation for a variety of adventure activities. Hiking, Mountaineering and Trekking in Nepal has gained huge popularity over the years. The trails for hiking in Nepal vary as much as the topography of the country. You can enjoy forests, rivers, plains, waterfalls or the mountains. There are even trails for trekking in Nepal which encompass all of these. People love to explore the physical challenge and breathtaking scenery during Nepal trekking trip.
Some of the best treks in Nepal are those which encompass natural beauty, physical challenge, cultural exploration and a varied topography. In this article, we have handpicked 5 awesome Nepal trekking routes. While we are on it, you can check out Alpine Ramble Treks. These are good folks, who can help you with hiking, trekking and other arrangements as well.
1. Everest Region Trekking
People enjoy trekking for the challenges and the adrenaline rush which is consequent of the challenge. That is why Mount Everest is the most popular destination for trekking trips in Nepal. The tallest mountain in the world is also home to some of the most beautiful sights to behold during an adventurous hike. Everest sits in a region known as Khumbu. While you are hiking in Nepal towards Everest, you also get to explore Sagarmatha National Park, which is popular for tahr and musk deer. The trail towards Everest also passes through several settlements of hillside communities. Here, you can enjoy comforts and explore the local culture. The teahouses at these settlements are especially popular during Nepal hiking trips.
The trip to Everest Base camp allows you to explore a variety of experiences in terms of culture, nature and adventure. You can check out some of the packages offered for Everest Base camp trips here.
2. Annapurna Region Trekking
The Annapurna region is the name given to collection of 6 mountain peaks. The highest among these stands at about 8 thousand meters and is the tenth highest mountain in the world. This peak is also known as Annapurna. This trail is very different from Everest Base Camp as it offers a different variety of scenery. The snow capped mountains and rivers rushing down from their glaciers look very picturesque. Some of the best treks in Nepal can be found in this region.
To explore Annapurna region, you will first have reach Pokhara, which is a beautiful city situation 200 kms northwest from Kathmandu. Trekking in Annapurna region is at relatively low elevation as compared to Everest Base Camp. The difficulty level of this trek is also moderate, hence it is also suitable for hikers without much experience. Another major advantage of choosing Annapurna is that you won’t be limited by the season. The trails in region are open all year. You can also choose to explore this trail around local festival days, which is the best time to trek in Nepal as you get to engage with their traditions and culture. You will come across several small villages during this hiking trail in Nepal and make sure you make the most of it. Though there are numerous options to choose from, we recommend 5 day Annapurna Base Camp trek and 2 week Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. These two allow to explore maximum colors of the region in any season.
3. Langtang Valley Trekking
This trek is lesser known among best treks in Nepal. It is a hidden beauty in a way, located just outside Kathmandu. This region also holds several historic trading routes which connected Nepal to its neighbor Tibet. You will see many villages and settlements of Tibetan ethnicity while exploring Langtang Valley. It is among the best places for trekking in Nepal, Himalaya to see a mix of Tibetan and Nepali culture.
This train also offers the sight of ice clad mountain peaks and scenic beauty of mountains and plains. Langtang Valley is also home to the Gosaikunda Lake, which holds great religious significance. If you wish to explore the region thoroughly, you can go for Langtang Vallery Trek and if you are only looking to explore only pastures and plains on lower altitudes than try out Helambu Circuit Trek.
4. Manaslu Trekking
Manaslu is the 8th highest mountain in the world and has one of the most challenging places for trekking in Nepal. You get to experience an entirely new side of the Himalayas while exploring Manaslu. Unlike popular trails for trekking in Nepal or Himalayas, this one doesn’t see much crowd owing to its difficulty level. You get to explore the unspoiled natural beauty here. There are small villages and settlements along the trail, but the tourist crowd here is scarce. You get to see the cultural aspects of Tsum, Nubri and Gurung folks along the trail and even learn about historical association of the region with Tibet and Tibetan culture.
Manaslu trail runs along Buri Gandaki river and covers Manaslu Conservation Area as well. If you are lucky, you would come across Himalayan blue sheep grazing along the mountains. Depending on how many days you want to explore the region, you can choose from 12 day Manaslu Circuit Trek, 15 day Tsum Valley Trek or a grand 26 trek exploring the entire region.
5. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking
If you don’t have the time to climb a mountain, you can climb a hill while trekking in Nepal. Ghorepani Poon Hill is situated among the Annapurnas, which we talked about earlier. The trail to this hill is also known as Annapurna Panorama Trek as the hilltop gives a great view of the mountains and valleys around. This point is also popular for sunrise view. The morning breakthrough the mountains, you can see peaks of Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Annapurna and others glow with golden light.
The trek is not that long either. You begin your journey from a quaint little town called Nayapul, which is close to Pokhara. This trek then takes you on a tour of mountain valleys, rivers and forests of bamboo and oaks. On the way, you will come across Tikhedhunga, Tadapani and Ghorepani communities. It will give you an insight into the lives of these people, their culture and traditions. There are several options to explore the Poon Hill trek ranging from 2 days to 7 days. Each of these trails have something unique to offer, the more you stay, more you can explore and enjoy.
