20 Best treks of the Himalayas - The Ultimate Travel Guide (2024)

by Paul Gurung
ON 11 Jan, 2024

Nepal is one of the most renowned trekking destinations in the world and home to several best treks of the Himalayas. From some of the tallest snow peaks to the world's deepest gorge, you will probably not find another region that offers such a geographical gradient as Nepal.

Several reasons make Nepal the country with the best Himalayan treks. In the first place, Nepal's spectacular natural scenery, including snow-capped peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, and dense forests, attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers worldwide.

Secondly, Nepal has a long history of art, music, dance, and religion intertwined with its daily life and customs. Many trekking routes pass through traditional villages where trekkers can experience the local lifestyle, customs, and traditions.

Thirdly, the Nepalese are known for their hospitality and warmth, and trekking in Nepal offers a chance to connect with the local communities and learn about their way of life.

Finally, Nepal offers a wide range of trekking options, from short, easy treks to more challenging and demanding expeditions. This means there is something for all trekkers, regardless of their fitness level or experience.

Overall, Nepal’s stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, welcoming people, and diverse trekking options make the best treks of the Himalayas. Nepal treks and tours are very satisfying and rewarding. 

Benefits of trekking in Nepal

If you are still wondering what makes Nepal the destination for the best Himalayan treks, here are some details.

  • Physical fitness: Trekking in Nepal involves walking several hours a day, often uphill and downhill, which provides a great cardiovascular workout.
  • Mental well-being: Trekking in Nepal is a great way to reduce stress and improve mental well-being. The fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, and peaceful surroundings help you calm your mind.
  • Cultural experience: Trekking in Nepal provides an opportunity to experience the country's rich cultural heritage, interact with local people, and learn about their customs and way of life.
  • Adventure and excitement: Trekking in Nepal offers a sense of adventure and excitement, with the opportunity to explore remote areas, climb mountain passes, and take in stunning views of the Himalayas.
  • Connection with nature: Trekking in Nepal provides a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
  • Personal growth: Trekking in Nepal can push individuals out of their comfort zone and promotes personal growth. Overcoming obstacles, achieving physical and mental goals, and experiencing new cultures leads to increased confidence and self-awareness.

 

Nepal provides countless trek opportunities for all levels of trekkers. In this article, we recommend treks for novice, intermediate, and proficient trekkers while paying enough addition to trek variety. No matter what levels of trek expertise you have, we will suggest a suitable trek for you.

Here are some of the best Himalayan treks for trekkers with different trek experiences. The article also points out the favorable Nepal trekking season for these treks. In most cases, Nepal trekking season is in spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November).


Treks for beginners:

 

 

Treks for Intermediate Trekkers:

 

Treks for Seasoned Trekkers:

 

Honorable mention:

 

Let's talk about each trek in detail.

20 Best Treks of the Himalayas (2024)

For first-time trekkers

As first-time trekkers, we understand that you might be excited, nervous, and a little unsure of what to expect. So, for first-time trekkers, we suggest you the following treks. Here are some of the best treks of the Himalayas suitable for first-time trekkers. Here are some of the easy hikes in Nepal. 

1. Short trek: Poon Hill trek (4 days)

Poon Hill Trek is one of the easy treks in Nepal that takes place in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek is named after Poon Hill, a viewpoint located at 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), which offers a panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

The trek usually starts from the scenic lakeside city of Pokhara and passes through beautiful villages, terraced farmlands, dense rhododendron forests, and charming hamlets inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities. The trek also offers a glimpse into the traditional Nepali lifestyle, culture, and customs.

The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it suitable for novice trekkers. The total duration of the trek is usually 4-5 days, with the average daily trekking time of 5-6 hours. The highest trek point is Poon Hill, which you can reach after a steep climb of about 45 minutes from Ghorepani. The sunrise view from Poon Hill is the climax of the trek and is not to be missed.

Overall, Poon Hill Trek is the perfect option for those who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas and rich Nepali culture without having to endure long and strenuous hikes.

Best trek seasons: Throughout the year

2. Short trek: Nagarkot trek (3 days)

The Nagarkot trek is another of several easy treks in Nepal. Nagarkot, at 2,100m, is a well-known mountain viewpoint near Kathmandu and lies surrounded by verdant terrace farms and dense forests. From Nagarkot, you can see numerous mountain ranges, such as Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Gauri Shankar (7,134m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), Langtang (7,234m), and Rolwaling (7,181m). It is a relatively easy trek that you can complete in 3 days.

The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the small town of Sundarijal. From there, the trail leads through beautiful forests and traditional villages, passing by waterfalls and streams on the way. The trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, making them suitable for hikers of all levels.

Nagarkot Trek is a great way to experience the natural beauty and Nepali culture while enjoying some peaceful time away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can also customize your trek to suit your preferences and time constraints. You can even add other popular activities, such as bird watching, yoga, and meditation to spice up the trek.

Best trek seasons: Throughout the year

3. Long Trek: Annapurna Base Camp Trek (11 days)

If you are a beginner looking for a rewarding trekking experience, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek should be on top of your list. It is one of the best Himalayan treks perfect for those new to trekking.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an easy-grade trek that takes around 7-12 days to complete, depending on your pace. The trek starts from the beautiful city of Pokhara and takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, traditional villages, and picturesque landscapes.

The trek is known for its stunning views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Annapurna Base Camp at an altitude of 4,130 meters, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

One of the reasons why we recommend the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for beginners is that it is a teahouse trek and the elevation is not too high. You can rest and replenish your energy with warm meals and comfortable beds in those hotels/lodges.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

4. Long Trek: Khopra Danda Trek 

The Khopra Danda Trek is a relatively new trekking route in Nepal. It is one of the easy treks in Nepal that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a unique cultural experience. It is an excellent choice for beginners who want to experience a longer trek.

Located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, the Khopra Danda Trek takes you through picturesque villages, dense forests, and pristine mountain landscapes. The trek is renowned for unparalleled views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

One of the main advantages of the Khopra Danda Trek is that it is less crowded than other popular trekking routes in the region, such as the Annapurna Base Camp or Annapurna Sanctuary treks.

The trek starts from Nayapul, which is a two-hour drive from Pokhara. From there, you will trek through beautiful villages like Ghandruk, which offers an insight into the unique Gurung culture and traditions.

As you ascend higher, you will pass through dense forests full of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo. These forests are home to various wildlife, including the elusive Himalayan musk deer and the red panda.

Best trek seasons: February to December

5. Most popular trek: Everest View trek

The Everest View Trek is perfect for those looking to enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Everest without risking altitude sickness. This shorter trek takes you to the renowned Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in Sherpa culture and hospitality while acclimatizing.

Along with Mt. Everest, you will see other towering peaks such as Mt. Lhotse (8,516m) and Cho Oyu (8,201m). The trek covers a substantial altitude, allowing you to enjoy a diverse range of flora and fauna. You will also spend time exploring the Sagarmatha National Park.

The journey begins with a scenic 45-minute flight to Lukla, where you will start the trek via the Dudh Koshi River. On arrival at Namche Bazaar, you can spend a day acclimatizing and exploring the local yak farm, Khumjung, Edmund Hillary-funded school and hospital, and the Everest View Hotel premises. The Khumjung Monastery is also a must-visit, as people believe it contains an ancient Yeti Scalp.

As you continue the trek to Tengboche, you will witness awe-inspiring views of Mt. Everest and other high peaks. A visit to the ancient Tengboche Monastery will allow you to observe the monks offering prayers. From Tanngboche, you will return to Namche Bazaar and trek back to Lukla. The trail allows you to create exciting experiences as you cross high-suspension bridges and dense forests, with opportunities to spot highland wildlife.

Best trek season: February to December

6. Most popular trek: Gokyo Ri trek

The Gokyo Ri trek is an ideal choice for those seeking adventure in Sagarmatha National Park. This trek offers a stunning view of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, as well as tranquil monasteries, diverse cultures and traditions, and diverse flora and fauna.

The trail to Gokyo Lake passes through majestic Himalayas and stunning landscapes. The trek requires a steady and slow pace due to the quick elevation gradient. The journey begins with a peaceful 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a hike to Phakding (2,650m) and Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the gateway to Everest.

After a day in Namche, the trek continues towards Dole, with stunning views of Mount Amadablam (6,812m) and Khumbila (5,761m) en route. Dole is located a little further from Phortse Tenga, and the trek culminates in the beautiful village of Gokyo.

Gokyo is a sight to behold, with its stunning mountains, glaciers, and oligotrophic lakes. More than a day is needed to appreciate all the views of Gokyo, which is why trekkers spend an extra day in the village. The Gokyo Lakes, which consist of six of the world's highest freshwater lakes, are also part of the itinerary. 

From Gokyo Village, we will take you to Gokyo Ri ridge, from where you can enjoy the views of Mount Everest (8,848m/29,028ft), Cho Oyu (8,201m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Mount Makalu (8,463m). After enjoying the stay at Gokyo Village, you will return back to Lukla via Namche Bazaar. From Lukla, you will return back to Kathmandu.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

7. Cultural trek: Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Sites Tour

Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, Kathmandu Valley is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each of these sites has its own unique cultural and historical significance. If you're visiting Nepal, exploring these sites is a must-do experience. The key places we'll take you to during this cultural tour are Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur Durbar squares, Swaymbhunath and Boudhanath Stupas, Pashupatinath and Changunaryan temples.

Best trek seasons: Throughout the year

8. Recommended trek: Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal trek is a relatively new and less-trodden route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It's a short scenic trek that takes you through beautiful forests, traditional villages, and stunning mountain landscapes. This trek starts and ends in Pokhara, the tourist capital of Nepal.

The highlight of the Mardi Himal trek is the stunning views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Annapurna South (7,219m) from the Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trek takes you through the lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo and offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan tahr and musk deer.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

Intermediate trekkers

If you have moderate trekking experience, you can join these treks. Trekking in mountainous regions differs from other treks. Hence, if you are not confident about rigorous treks in Nepal, we advise you to try these best treks of the Himalayas. Here are some Nepal treks and tours that suit intermediate trekkers.

9. Short trek: Poon Hill and Ghorepani Trek

Poon Hill and Ghorepani Trek is less than a week trek that introduces you to mountainous Nepal without taking you to higher elevations and regions that demand physical fitness and determination. You will basically be trekking in the foothills of Annapurna ranges as you make your way to Ghorepani Village and Poon Hill viewpoint. 

The trek begins in Pokhara as you head to Ulleri passing through Tikhedhunga. From Tikhedhunga, you will begin trekking toward Ghorepani. Throughout the trek, you will get a chance to witness rural Nepali life and even interact with the locals. On your second day of trekking, you will reach Poon Hill Viewpoint, one of the most popular viewpoints in Nepal. From here, you can see a panorama of mountain ranges: Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8,091 m), Tukuche (6,920m), Nilgiri (6,940m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and many more. 

After enjoying the view from Poon Hill, you will return to Tadapani and then to Jhinu Danda, which hosts natural hot springs, and you can relax in these hot springs and get rejuvenated. From Jhinu Danda, you will head to Siwa and then return to Pokhara. 

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

10. Long trek: Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek is a unique adventure that takes you to the ancient hidden kingdom of Lo, a remote and isolated region in the Nepalese Himalayas. This trek is among the most unique Nepal treks and tours. 

This trek offers a rare opportunity to explore the rich and ancient culture of the Mustang people, who have preserved their way of life for centuries. You will witness the stunning landscapes of barren hills, deep canyons, eroded cliffs, the moraine valleys, and the majestic views of snow-capped mountains such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. 

You will also visit the ancient monasteries, caves, fortresses, and palaces that dot the region. Upper Mustang Trek is an adventurous but rewarding journey. However, as a restricted trek region, you will need special permits and a local guide. It is suitable for experienced intermediate trekkers who want to see exotic desert-like landscapes due to its position in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. 

The trek begins from Kathmandu to Pokhara, from where you will fly to Jomsom and make it up to Kagbeni for that day. From Kagbeni, you will trek north, passing Syangboche, Samar, and Ghami to reach Lo Manthang, the capital city of the ancient kingdom of Lo. Then you will return via Tsarang and head to Chhuksang and then Muktinath before returning to Jomsom, from where you will fly to Pokhara. It is an exciting trek, and this region has a unique landscape you cannot find in other parts of Nepal.

Best season: summer (June, July, August) and autumn (September, October, November

11. Most popular trek: Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is a popular trekking route in Nepal that covers a distance of about 200 km and takes around 15 to 20 days to complete. The Annapurna Circuit trek starts from Besisahar and ends in Birethanti, passing through diverse landscapes, cultures, and climates. These treks are considered among the best treks of the Himalayas. 

The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and other peaks, as well as the opportunity to cross the Thorung La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416 meters. The Annapurna Circuit is a classic adventure that attracts thousands of trekkers every year who want to experience the beauty and challenge of the Himalayas.

You will experience the beauty of the Himalayas, from lush valleys and forests to barren deserts and glaciers. You will also encounter the rich and varied cultures of the Nepalese people, from Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries to traditional villages. Annapurna Circuit is among the most popular Nepal treks and tours. 

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

12. Cultural trek: Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley Trek is an excellent option for those who want to immerse themselves in Nepalese culture while enjoying stunning mountain views.

The Langtang Valley is located in the northern part of Nepal, close to the border with Tibet. It is an area inhabited by the Tamang and Sherpa people, who have preserved their unique culture for generations. The trek takes you through traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and lush forests, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of these communities.

The trek begins in the town of Syabrubesi, which can be reached by a six-hour drive from Kathmandu. From there, you start a gradual ascent through the Langtang National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, red panda, and langur monkeys.

As you climb higher, the landscape changes, and you will be surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including Langtang Lirung (7,227m), the highest mountain in the area. The trail takes you through the beautiful Langtang Valley, passing through small villages such as Lama Hotel, Langtang Village, and Kyanjin Gompa.

One of the highlights of the trek is the Kyanjin Gompa, a 400-year-old Buddhist monastery located at 3,900 meters. The monastery is adorned with colorful prayer flags and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also visit a local cheese factory, where you can taste delicious Yak cheese made by the Sherpa people.

The Langtang Valley Trek is a moderate trek, suitable for those with good fitness. The hike takes about nine days to complete with an average of five to six hours of walking per day. The best time to go is from September to November and March to May when the weather is dry, and the views are clear.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

13. Recommended trek: Ruby Valley Trek 

The Ruby Valley Trek is a great option for intermediate trekkers who want to explore the natural beauty of Nepal while immersing themselves in the local culture. Located in the central region of Nepal, the Ruby Valley Trek takes you through the remote and unspoiled areas of the country, providing an opportunity to experience the Nepalese way of life and interact with the local people.

The trek begins from the town of Syabrubesi, about 130 km north of Kathmandu. The first few days of the trek take you through lush forests, past raging rivers and waterfalls, providing an excellent opportunity to observe the local flora and fauna. The trail then leads to traditional Nepalese villages, where you can witness the daily life of the local people, including farming, animal husbandry, and handicrafts.

The Ruby Valley Trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the culture of the Gurung and Tamang communities, known for their hospitality, traditional way of life, and rich cultural heritage. You will pass through other villages, such as Gatlang, Somdang, and Chalis Gaon, where you can interact with the locals, taste local cuisine, and learn about their customs and traditions.

As you progress on the trails, you will get stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and Manaslu. You can also visit the hot springs in Tatopani, where you can relax and soak in the natural hot water after a long day.

With its moderate difficulty level, the Ruby Valley Trek is a great choice for those with some trekking experience and looking for a rewarding adventure.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

Seasoned trekkers

Here are the treks for seasoned, physically tough, and mentally determined trekkers.  

14. Short trek: Everest Base Camp Short Trek (10 days)

The Everest Base Camp Short Trek is one of the most iconic treks in the world, attracting thousands of trekkers every year. While the traditional hike takes around 14 days, this package of the Everest Base Camp trek completes in 10 days. For a rapid and challenging trek, this trek is among the best hikes of the Himalayas. 

The 10-day version of the Everest Base Camp trek follows the same route as the traditional trek but with a more condensed itinerary. This trek requires a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience, as you will be trekking at high altitudes and over challenging terrain.

The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town in the Khumbu region of Nepal. From Lukla, you will trek through beautiful Sherpa villages, past Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags, and through dense forests of rhododendron and pine.

As you trek toward the base camp, you will pass through several high-altitude villages, including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep. Each of these villages offers a unique cultural experience, with opportunities to learn about the Sherpa people and their way of life.

The highlight of the trek is reaching Everest Base Camp, where you will have stunning views of the Khumbu Icefall and the surrounding peaks. You will also have the opportunity to trek up to Kala Patthar, a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.

The 10-day Everest Base Camp Trek is a condensed but challenging and rewarding trek that offers breathtaking views of the Khumbu region and the Himalayas. It's a great option for those with limited time who want to experience the beauty and culture of the Everest region. If you're up for a challenge and want to experience one of the world's most iconic treks, the 10-day Everest Base Camp trek is definitely worth considering.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

15. Long trek: Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley trek

The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal, which takes you through the remote and beautiful Tsum Valley as well as around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu. The trek is considered a challenging one and requires a good level of fitness and preparation.

The trek usually starts from the town of Arughat and goes through the Budhi Gandaki river valley, passing through various villages, terraced fields, and forests. As you approach Tsum Valley, you'll pass through the Lokpa, Chumling, and Chhokangparo villages, allowing you to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people.

After exploring Tsum Valley, you will return to Lokpa in the Manaslu Circuit, a popular trekking route that circumnavigates Mount Manaslu. From Lokpa, you will head west to Namrung and then Samagaun. From Samagaun, you can head to Manaslu Base Camp and then continue the Manaslu Circuit.

The next stop is at Dharmasala, just before Larkya La Pass (5,160), the highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking views of several snow peaks, including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kanguru, and Annapurna II.

Overall, the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek that offers stunning mountain scenery, unique cultural experiences, and an opportunity to explore remote and less-traveled parts of Nepal. 

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

16. Most popular trek: Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days)

The Everest Base Camp trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure that takes you through the Khumbu region of Nepal to the base of the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest. The trek typically lasts around 14 days and covers a distance of approximately 130 km (80 miles) round trip.

During the trek, you will find yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayan Mountains. You will pass through picturesque villages, lush forests, and high-altitude deserts. If you want you can interact with local Sherpa communities, famous for their mountaineering skills, and learn about their unique culture and way of life.

One of the most challenging aspects of the trek is the altitude. The trek starts at around 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level and reaches a maximum elevation of 5,555 meters at Kala Patthar. Hence, for proper acclimatization, the trek includes two rest days. You will normally acclimatize in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche for a day each. 

Highlights of the trek include stunning views of Mount Everest and other peaks such as Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. You will also visit the iconic villages of Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, where you can explore monasteries and enjoy the unique Sherpa culture.

Thus, the Everest Base Camp trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers a truly unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful and challenging mountain ranges.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

17. Cultural trek: Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region in Nepal. The trek typically lasts around 16 days and covers a distance of approximately 230 km (140 miles) round trip.

The trek starts with a bus journey from the bustling city of Kathmandu and heads to the picturesque town of Besisahar, where you will begin on the trails. The first few days of the trek will take you through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages. You will also come across several suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River, famous for rafting.

One of the trek highlights is the ascent to Tilicho Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,949 meters (16,138 feet). Tilicho Lake is a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists, and this is a high-altitude lake known for its crystal-clear waters. You can witness fabulous views of several snow peaks from the lake premises. 

After visiting Tilicho Lake, you will rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit trail and continue through the beautiful Manang Valley. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore the ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan-style villages.

The trek then crosses the challenging Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the hike, at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). From here, you will descend into the Kali Gandaki Valley and visit the holy town of Muktinath. From Muktinath, you will take a local bus to Taopani. 

In Tatopani, you can choose to relax your tired muscles in the natural hot springs. The next day’s trek will take you to Ghorepani Village, where you will rest for a night and the following morning, you will enjoy the views from the Poon Hill Viewpoint, perhaps the most popular viewpoint in Nepal. Then, the trek will take you to Birethanti, from where you can take a local bus to return to Pokhara.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek adventure offers a unique insight into the culture and natural beauty of the Annapurna region. The trek allows you to witness stunning mountain views, experience traditional villages, and a chance to challenge yourself physically and mentally.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

18. Recommended trek: Everest Three Passes Trek

The Everest Three Passes Camp Trek is a challenging, adventurous trek that takes you through some of the most incredible landscapes in the Nepali Himalayas. This trek is known for its high passes, rugged terrain, and breathtaking mountain views. In terms of adventure, you can consider this trek one of the best treks in Nepal. 

The Three High Passes trek takes you across three high passes - Renjo La Pass (5,360m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535m) - each of which offers a unique and stunning view of the surrounding mountains. These passes lie at high altitudes and require proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and trekking experience.

The trek also takes you to the iconic Everest Base Camp, from where you can get views of nearby snow peaks. The Base Camp is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. Each year thousands of trekkers/nature lovers come to this region to see Mt.Everest up close.

The Three Passes Everest Base Camp Trek is known for its breathtaking scenery. You will trek through picturesque villages, dense forests, and high mountain passes while enjoying stunning views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. You will also have the opportunity to visit beautiful ancient monasteries.

This trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers and thrill-seekers alike. However, you must be well-prepared for the hike physically and mentally.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

19. Recommended trek: Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes

The Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes trek is another popular trekking route in north-eastern Nepal that takes you to the Everest Base Camp. But instead of the classical route, you will take the path that progresses to Everest Base Camp via the Gokyo Lakes region. As you hike ahead, your route will join the traditional route to the Everest Base Camp at Thukla. This is among the best treks in Nepal and falls in the Everest region. 

After visiting the Gokyo Lakes, you will travel to Thangnak, cross Cho La Pass (5,420m), and head to Thukla. The trek usually takes around 14-16 days to complete and is considered a challenging trek. It involves long days of hiking, with a few steep ascents and descents. The trek culminates in Everest Base Camp (5,384m), but you may also head to the Kalapatthar (5,555m) to enjoy the dawn breaking from behind the world's some of the tallest mountains in the world.

Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to experience the suspension bridges, visit traditional Sherpa villages, see Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags, and take in stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

Honorable mention

20. Nar Phu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a spectacular remote trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal that offers a unique experience not only of the western Himalayan region of Nepal but also of the enigmatic Nar Phu Valley. It is also one of the best treks in Nepal. 

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a relatively strenuous and challenging trek that takes you through high passes, beautiful valleys, ancient villages, and serene landscapes. The trek begins from the beautiful city of Kathmandu and then follows the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek route up to Koto. From Koto, the trail veers off towards the Nar Phu Valley, passing through dense forests, high cliffs, and narrow gorges.

The trek takes you through traditional Tibetan villages that have remained almost unchanged for centuries. You will have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their unique culture and lifestyle. The trek also provides stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including several peaks over 7000 meters.

One of the highlights of the Nar Phu Valley Trek is crossing four tall passes: Phu Pass (5,050m), Naar Pass (5,400m), Kang La Pass (5,320m), and Thorong La Pass (5,416m).

These passes offer panoramic views of the mountains and are a challenging but rewarding experience for trekkers. If you are looking for a unique and challenging trekking experience, the Nar Phu Valley Trek is definitely worth considering.

Best trek seasons: Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November)

Finally

Nepal is a heterogeneous country, not only in terms of culture, traditions, and ethnicity but geographically as well. The extreme geographical gradient in Nepal results in climatic diversity unseen in other regions that cover similar areas. With the climatic variety comes floral and faunal diversity. These factors also make Nepal one of the finest trek destinations in the world.

The welcoming Nepalis will enhance your trek experience as a whole, making several Nepali Himalayan treks the best treks of the Himalayas. Please pay attention to Nepal trekking season for a better experience. 

Discovery World Trekking is a leading Nepali trekking/adventure company focusing on enhancing trek experiences in the Nepali Himalayas. In addition to offering you almost a hundred trip packages, we custom-create itineraries to suit your tastes and interests. 

You can call/Viber/WhatsApp us at +977-9840055491 or email [email protected] and plan your next trek in Nepal amidst the most exciting parts of the Himalayas.  

 

Paul Gurung

Paul has an extensive experience in the tourism industry. Through his blogs, he shares his deep knowledge about the stunning trek regions in Nepal, inspiring trekkers worldwide to explore these regions and enrich their lives. In addition to geography, his writings delve into the human side of the trek regions, including culture, traditions, religions, and etiquette, offering a comprehensive and enriching perspective on the Himalayan trekking and expedition experience.

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