Trekking is one of the best things you can do in Nepal. Here you will be fully connected with nature, its amazing views and local fauna. Most people heard about Mount Everest but there are a lot of different options to explore.
In this article we will tell you about the best hikes in Nepal, their duration and the best time to do it so that you enjoy this experience to the fullest. You will be able to choose the trekking that suits your plans the best. Keep in mind that for most of them you will require a guide.
Everest Base Camp
With this trek you will reach the base of Mount Everest, where climbers prepare for their ascent to the world’s highest mountain. It is considered not only one of the top treks in Nepal but one of the most iconic in the whole world because of how beautiful the views are. Many people travel here just to be able to experience it.
The duration of this incredible adventure is 12 to 16 days and be sure that in everyone you will find views of different picturesque villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and Dingboche. As you ascend, you will see breathtaking scenery of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam.
One of the great things about this hike is that it offers an immersive experience into the culture and landscapes of the Khumbu region. It is challenging because of the high altitude but it is also well-supported by guesthouses and teahouses along the way. There you can find food and accommodation.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
This Nepal Trekking is one of the most famous and diverse. It is a less challenging experience than Everest and it has better access to it. In this 14 to 21 days experience where you will cover around 160 to 230 kilometers, you will find an incredible connection not only with nature but with the local culture.
While circling the Annapurna massif, you will pass through lush green forests, terrace fields and traditional villages where you will experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Gurung and Thakai communities. You will also see stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre and other peaks.
Manaslu Circuit
The Manaslu Circuit is one of the less crowded and more secluded treks you will find in the country. You will walk around Manaslu, the eight – highest mountain in the world. In the 12 to 14 days that it lasts, it will take you through lush forests, suspension bridges over rivers and traditional villages. When you reach the highest point of the trek, you will see the most amazing views of the surrounding peaks.
The hike leads to the border area of Nepal and China and even though it’s gaining popularity, it is still very secluded so you will definitely encounter the untouched beauty of the rugged landscapes and the local cultures of the Tsum and Nurbi communities.
Makalu Base
This challenging adventure is one of the top treks in Nepal. It takes you into the heart of Makalu National Park, known for its biodiversity and landscapes you can’t find in any other place. It lasts 15 to 20 days and as you ascend the eight-highest peak in the world you will be rewarded by the views of forests, remote villages and the other surrounding peaks like Lhotse and Everest.
Upper Mustang Trek
If you consider yourself an explorer and adventurer then this is the trek for you! Upper Mustang is also known as “Last Forbidden Kingdom” because it takes you to a remote and restricted section of Nepal that was once a forbidden Buddhist kingdom.
It was opened in 1992 and it still preserves its ancient language and culture that you will experience in the 10 to 17 days that it takes you to complete it. It is also a moderate trekking, so if you don’t want to make so much effort, then you should also consider this option. The rugged terrains and red cliffs and hills will give you a unique perspective of Nepal.
Once you reach Lo Manthang, with a height of 3,840 meters, you will be able to explore the ancient caves, monasteries, and fortresses that hide the region’s rich history and Tibetan culture.
Langtang Valley
Langtang Valley trek is an easier option, really popular among first-time trekkers that want to experience the amazing views of Nepal and also for those that want to warm up before a more challenging one.
The trail runs through bamboo forests, alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. All of that, with stunning views of the Langtang Himalayas in the background. At a height of 3,830 meters you will find Kyanjim Gompa, the landmark village of the region. The locals are Tibetan and Lama ethnic groups. Another great thing about this trek is the local fauna you will encounter, like deer, bears and red pandas.
Gokyo Lakes
This trek goes around the turquoise waters of Gokyo Lakes. You will go through Gokyo Valley where you will see glacial lakes and stunning views of Cho Oyu and Everest. You will also pass the picturesque Sherpa villages, so you will be able to immerse yourself in the local culture. Like other treks, you will find cozy teahouses along the trail where you will find shelter and food in the 14 to 15 days that this adventure takes.
Ghorepani Poon Hill
Ghorepani Poon Hill is the ideal trekking in Nepal for people with limited time and it is also suitable for beginners. It takes between 4 and 5 days and will take you to a maximum elevation of 3210 meters.
You will be led through rhododendron forests, charming villages and terraced fields. If you are able to reach Poon Hill before dawn you will be able to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This trek is very rewarding but keep in mind it is one of the most crowded ones.
The best time for trekking in Nepal
In Nepal there are four very delimited seasons. The best ones for trekking are autumn (September through November) and spring (March through May) because then you will have the best temperatures and hiking conditions.
In Autumn you will find temperatures of around 22 to 27 degrees Celsius and people say it is the perfect weather. Spring brings temperatures that go from 16 to 23 degrees and you will also be able to enjoy the flowers that bloom at this time.
In summer (July and August) it rains a lot so the paths are usually flooded and the trek becomes more dangerous. At this time, something you could do is the Upper Mustang Trek because the area remains dry.
Winter (December through February) is the season for trekking enthusiasts who visit Nepal to experience the most incredible views of the snow-capped peaks. Due to the cold, it is less crowded than in other seasons.
