Popular Trekking Routes in Nepal

Ask any trekkers if they have heard about Nepal. The answer is yes. And why wouldn’t they? Nepal is home to eight of the 14 tallest mountains in the world, including Sagarmatha (Mount Everest), the highest mountain on earth. Every trekker dreams about trekking to the feet of these Himalayas once in their lifetime. So, every year, these trekkers visit Nepal to achieve their dream, which results in these treks being popular worldwide. 

But there are so many, and which one is the most popular trekking route in Nepal? The answer is not simple. Various factors, like difficulty level, beauty, experience, and accessibility, come into play when determining the most popular routes. After analyzing these aspects, we have encountered a list of popular treks ranging from challenging to easy. This article will list such treks, presented in no particular order.

Top 5 Popular Trekking Routes in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC Trek) in the Everest region is one of the most popular trekking routes globally. This 18-day trek will take you to the foot of Mount Everest, the highest mountain on earth. It starts with a scenic flight to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechhap.

From Lukla, you will take a classical route of Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep, and EBC. The highest point of this trek is Kalapatthar, at an elevation of 5,455 meters. This trek provides an unforgettable trekking experience and a chance to explore life in the Himalayas. 

Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights

• Witness the majestic views of Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m), Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Nuptse (7,855 m)
• Exploring the spiritual side of the trek by visiting monasteries like Tengboche Monastery.
• Traversing through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site. 
• Experiencing the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people and immersing oneself in their culture.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to the foot of the world’s tenth-highest mountain, Annapurna I (8,091 m). Residing in the Annapurna Conservation Area, this trek offers varied landscapes and picturesque Gurung and Magar Villages. It is a moderately challenging trek that doesn’t compromise on any aspect of trekking, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights

• Close-up views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Himchuli as the trek takes you to the Annapurna Base Camp and Machhapuchhre Base Camp. 
• Walk through the diverse landscape, including dense forests and alpine meadows, making it the best hike for exploring nature. 
• Warm hospitality for the Gurung and Magar people in traditional villages like Ghandurk and Landruk. 
• Relaxing in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda relieves all the pain from walking. 

Langtang Gosainkunda Trek

Langtang Gosankunda Terk is a trek that combines the Langtang Valley Trek with the Gosainkunda trek. The scenic journey takes you through the Langtang National Park, known for its biodiversity. This 17-day trek is for those who want to explore the Himalayas of Nepal while also exploring one of the most sacred lakes in Nepal, Gosainkkunda Lake.

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Highlights

• Exploration of the Langtang region along with the Langtang National Park, which is known for the highest number of red pandas. 
• Trek to the Gosainkunda Lake, a sacred lake in Rasuwa that is considered an adobe of Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri.
• Spectacular views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Gang Chenpo, and many more. 
• A cultural expedition of Tamang and Sherpa people through interaction and hospitality. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek is another famous trek in Nepal that lies in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Its popularity is because of the diversity this trek has to offer. From taking you to the traditional villages to one of the highest passes (Thorong La Pass), it allows trekkers to explore the Annapurna Region from every nook and corner. Not only that, but it is also diverse in terms of the various detour treks it offers. For example, you can plan your itinerary and take a detour to do Tilicho Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, or Upper Mustang Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

• Traversing through one of the highest passes in Nepal, Thorong La Pass, at an elevation of 5,416 meters. 
• Witnessing the grandeur of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, and other various mountains.
• Exploring the Manang village on the acclimatization day. Manang is also known as the Crown Jewel of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 
• Visiting Muktinath temple at 3,800 m. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

As the name suggests, the Manaslu Circuit Trek circles Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain. This trek takes you off the beaten path while providing cultural experiences similar to the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Manaslu region’s culture and wildlife are so unique that you must obtain a special permit via a trekking agency to trek. You also need a trekking guide to accompany you for this trek. The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers equal adventure and joy as other treks. It is your destination if you prefer both adventure and solitude while trekking. 

Manaslu Circuit TrekHighlights

• Exceptional views of the world’s 8th-highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), and other peaks like Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and more. 
• Trekking through the Lrkya La Pass (5,160m) is also the trek’s highest point. 
• Exploring the diverse beauty of Manaslu Conservation Area, home to many endemic flora and fauna. 
• A journey to the traditional Tibetan-influenced villages and visiting the Nubri Monastery and Pungyen Monastery. 

Short and Easy Treks in Nepal

The treks listed above are some of Nepal’s most challenging and lengthy. They require a higher budget, longer trekking days, and risk altitude sickness. Although beginners can complete them, rigorous preparation is required.

Shorter treks are perfect alternative routes for beginners and those with limited time. They offer breathtaking views and cultural experiences without requiring extensive physical endurance. Here is a list of some of Nepal’s short and easy treks. 

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a perfect go-to trek for someone who doesn’t have much time to go on an Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. While this trek doesn’t provide you the feel of trekking in the Himalayas, it still grants you the thrill of trekking through the diverse landscape, taking you to the hilltop, which is popular for the sunrise and sunset views.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Highlights

• The stunning sunrise and sunset views from Poon Hill that glistens the various Himalayan ranges. 
• Panoramic view of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna. Himchuli, Machhapuchre (Fishtail).
• Experiencing the rich Gurung and Magar culture while also enjoying their hospitality. 
• Walking through kaleidoscopic rhododendron forests and verdant landscapes. 

Pikey Peak Trek

Pikey Peak Trek in the Everest region often acts as a practice trek for those who want to do an Everest Base Camp Trek or Everest Three Passes Trek but are beginners. It is not as crowded as other popular treks and allows you to immerse yourself in nature and the culture of the people in the region.

Pikey Peak Trek Highlights 

• Get to the summit of the Pikey Peak to witness the mountains like Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse. 
• A less crowded trekking trail that offers a peaceful trekking experience. 
• Experience rich Sherpa culture and visit ancient monasteries. 

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek is relatively newer than others in the Annapurna region. It opened in 2012. This is the least explored trekking destination, but it is getting its due today, with many people choosing it for its diversity and moderately challenging nature.

Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

• Close-up view of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Himchuli. 
• A peaceful and less crowded trekking destination in the Annapurna region. 
• Diverse landscapes range from verdant forests to the alpine meadows in the ridges. 

Why Choose Nepal for Trekking?

Nepal is one of the best trekking destinations in the world because of its mountains. There are eight mountains recognized by an international committee that are above 8,000 meters in Nepal. The path leading to these mountains is challenging and adventurous. Hence, these are the go-to destinations for trekkers. Besides, Nepal is also popular for trekking in the traditional villages, which adds a cultural aspect to the adventure. Below are the benefits of trekking in Nepal. 

Benefits of trekking in Nepal

• Varied Landscape and Mountain Views— Nepal offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The route to the mountains is diverse, ranging from subtropical zones to alpine meadows. 
• Adventure— Hiking through the rugged trails with the risks of altitude sickness and injuries makes these treks adventurous. 
• Cultural Experience— The people who live in the trekking regions are the ethnic groups of Nepal whose traditions and culture are unique. You can experience these cultures while trekking. 
• Biodiversity— Most treks take you through conservation areas or national parks, known for their diverse flora and fauna. 
• Affordability— Compared to other trekking destinations worldwide, trekking in Nepal is budget-friendly. 

Trekking Cost for Nepal

There is no definite way to determine the trekking cost as it depends on multiple factors like permits, food, accommodations, guides, porters, and many more. While some treks are cheaper because of the shorter duration, others are expensive because of their lengthy nature. The cost also depends upon your trekking style, like where you want to stay, what you want to eat during the trek, what you want to carry, and more. Here is an approximate cost breakdown of trekking in Nepal. It provides the expense range from the lowest to the highest.

Trekking Packages of Best Treks in Nepal 

Analyzing the costs in the table above and separating the budget can be a hassle. Our trekking packages include guides, porters, permits, food and accommodations, and transportation expenses. This will leave you with additional travel insurance costs, tips, and visas. The starting price of the above-mentioned popular trekking routes in Nepal are as follow: 

Conclusion

Nepal’s popular trekking routes, like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal, Ghorepani Poon Hill, etc, offer an unforgettable experience while providing breathtaking views of mountains and landscapes. Picking one of these treks can still be confusing as each offers something others don’t. To tell you the truth, you just have to pick one. Whether you choose the most popular Annapurna Base Camp or underdog Mardi Himal for trekking, you won’t be unhappy with your choice.