Nepal is a dream destination for all the adventure fanatics who are tempted by the spectacular beauty of the Himalayas and the adrenaline thrill that it offers. Listed by top travel portals bazillion times, Nepal always stands on top for trekking, climbing, and tours. The possibilities this Himalayan nation offers for an adventure trek are endless, which often make it hard for travelers to choose the best trekking trails for them.
There are numerous blogs out there that talk about the top 10 trekking destinations in Nepal or the top 5 places to go for trekking in Nepal. But still, it can be confusing as the views are fantastic wherever you go, so does the experience.
Then, what exactly should you consider before booking your lifetime adventure in the Himalayas?
There are a few questions that you should honestly ask yourself before booking a trip-
- What level of trekking difficulty you can endure, and what is your physical fitness?
- Are you looking for a guesthouse trek (moderate-difficult) or a camping trek (difficult-strenuous)?
- Are you trekking alone or in a group? (Some regions in Nepal require at least two trekkers in the group, not including the guide/porters)
- Either you are looking for a touristy trekking trail, which is generally crowded and offers many services, or a less-crowded remote trail with limited tourist infrastructure?
- In which season you are trekking in Nepal? (In monsoon and winter many trails get close)
- What is your budget? Are you going for a budget-friendly trip, or you are okay with getting the best available services on the trail in exchange for an expensive package?
The above questions will help you a lot while choosing the best trekking trail or for you. You can also chat with our representative, who will help you to find an ideal trekking package.
Every trek that the Himalayas has to offer is special in its way, and we do not want to choose the five best or the ten best treks in Nepal. Despite that, in this blog, we want to tell you about the 10 Most Popular Trekking Regions in Nepal.
Every region has its distinct values and specialty. One thing is sure wherever you choose to go, the scenery will be breath-taking.
Everest Khumbu Region
Khumbu region houses the world's highest mountain, Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m), and the very famous route to its lap, Everest Base Camp Trek (5,360 m). Enchanted by the mesmerizing beauty of the region and its serene surrounding, thousands of travelers from all over the world have traversed this region. Besides the base camp, there are stunning Gokyo Lakes (5,000 m) and three high passes- Cho La Pass (5,420 m), Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), and Kang La Pass (5,306 m) that offer equally adventurous excursions. If you want to be bolder, you can go for the hidden and strenuous venture to the Rolwaling Valley.
You will get to observe some of the marvelous landscapes while trekking in the Khumbu region. Several world's highest mountains like Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 m), and Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,486 m) illuminates the trail with their mighty presence. Along with that, the lush greenery, exotic flowers, and rare Himalayan wildlife enhance the routes. And, how can we forget the cultural richness and the friendly people of this region? Home to the strong Sherpas and other ethnic communities like Rai, Limbu, etc, the locals of this place have won the hearts of millions of trekkers & climbers over the years.
The three reasons to trek in the Khumbu region
- Stand face to face with Mt. Everest- the highest mountain in the world
- Get to see the daily lifestyle and traditions of Sherpas along with people from other communities
- Most of the facilities are available on the trail
Famous treks
Everest Panorama Trek, EBC Trek with Heli Tour, Everest Base Camp Trek, Three High Passes Trek, Gokyo Valley Trek
Annapurna Region
Annapurna base camp trek region is another very famous trekking region in Nepal. The region offers both easy and adventurous ventures. Depending upon your availability, you can join from a short three days trek to more than two weeks trek. And the best thing is, both options let you have an equally rewarding experience. It is what we love most about the Himalayas, regardless of the time you spent on the trail, every moment holds a very distinct memory and leaves you with impressions, which is incomparable.
The Annapurna region houses the western Himalayas like the seventh highest mountain- Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and the tenth highest mountain in the world- Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) along with other snow-capped mountains like Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Tukuche (6,920 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), etc. From the lower part of the region to its highest point, the views are marvelous. The trail passes through lovely rhododendron forests and picturesque villages resided by people from many communities. Spend time with locals, cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)- the highest pass in Nepal, explore remote valleys, unwind around Tilicho Lake (4,949 m) or dwell in the divine premises of Muktinath (3,800 m)- a sacred temple, the options are limitless.
The three reasons to trek in the Annapurna region
- Some of the best options for a short trek
- Enjoy breath-taking views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains without going on long and difficult trekking
- The region has got a good balance of touristy and less-crowded trails
Famous treks
Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Tilicho Lake Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, Mardi Himal Trek
Langtang Region
The best known as the "Valley of Glaciers," the Langtang Region is a very promising part of the Himalayas that is on the way to gain fame among global travelers. Located north of the capital, Kathmandu, the Langtang region is the only one that has quicker access to the trail than all the famous trekking regions of Nepal. Only a few hours of smooth drive, and you will join the trail right away. Trust us, the views here are unlike any other place in Nepal. The region itself is very calming, with less-crowded routes. You will be trekking through the Langtang National Park, which is home to numerous vegetations, floras, and rare wildlife.
Trekking in the Langtang region is for those who want to see and live the typical mountain lifestyle. Mostly resided by the Tamangs- believed to be the descendants of the Tibetans, you will find many similarities with them. Guesthouses are the main accommodation on the trail, which obviously lets you have a close glimpse into the life of locals. You will be shocked, looking at how the locals are so deeply attached to their antiquated norms and values.
You can see beautiful views of a mountain range like Langtang Lirung (7,246 m), Langshisha Ri (6,370 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Dorje Lhakpa (6,966 m), Yala Peak (5,520 m), Gaurisankar (7,134 m), and many others along with numerous stunning glaciers. The region is somewhat famous for short and moderate treks, but you can also spice up the journey by adding an excursion to Ganja La Pass (5,130 m) or Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m) to the trip.
The three reasons to trek in the Langtang region
- Quick access to the trail
- Get to see the lifestyle and culture of the Tamangs
- A very unique perspective of the Himalayan nature
Famous treks
Langtang Valley Trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, Ganja La Pass Trek, Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu Trek, Langtang Heli Tour
Manaslu Region
Trekking in the Manaslu region is like leaving the crowd behind. The region got opened for foreign travelers in 1991, crazy right? The Manaslu region was closed to the outside world for a very long time, which played an incredible role to preserve the unspoiled nature and the distinct lifestyle of the locals. The opened trekking routes offer gorgeous sceneries, heart-warming encounters with the locals, and ancient culture. You will be trekking in the vicinity of the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu.
The Manaslu region is closely located to the Annapurna region, therefore you will see one of the best views of Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m). Likewise, the trail also offers views of glistening Manaslu Glacier and other mountains like Mt. Himlung (7,126 m), Kang Guru (6,981 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), etc. Most parts of the trail are off beaten and fall under the difficult trekking routes in the Himalayas. The accommodation along the way is also very basic, which makes the trek in the Manaslu region overall strenuous.
The three reasons to trek in the Manaslu region
- Unspoiled nature and less-crowded trail
- Off the beaten trekking routes with several challenges
- Long and adventurous trekking
Famous treks
Manaslu Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Trekking
Ruby Valley Region
One of our favorite parts of the Himalayas, which we exclusively recommend to the travelers who are in quest of something different, something raw that only a handful of people have traversed, is trekking in the Ruby Valley. Chances are high you have not heard about this name before, or even if you know Ruby Valley, you might not have considered trekking there yet. So, let us give you more insight into this beautiful hidden region and see where Ruby Valley trekking stands for you.
Located between the Manaslu Conservation Area and Langtang National Park, Ruby Valley is one of the least visited trails in the Himalayas. The trail is very remote, with almost no infrastructure that keeps most of the tourists away. Moreover, most parts of the terrain are off beaten- challenging, steep & rugged. The available services are basic, therefore your endurance should be high, or you can go for a camping trek (not that expensive in a group). The views along the routes are exceptionally astonishing, and you get to immerse yourself in the tranquil daily life of the locals.
Imagine lush green hills, snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, fine valleys, and remote villages altogether; can you get the picture? This is what Ruby Valley Trek offers.
The three reasons to trek in the Manaslu region
- The trail is adventurous but challenging and less crowded. You will barely see fellow trekkers on the way
- The unspoiled, pristine, and serene surrounding
- Stunning landscapes and live a very simple lifestyle for a few days
Famous treks
Ruby Valley Trek, Ruby Valley Ganesh Kunda Trek
Helambu Region
Helambu region is located nearby Kathmandu, only a few kilometers of drive, and you will stand at the starting point of the trail. Despite the close proximity of the trail from Kathmandu, lowkey, not many travelers know about this beautiful trekking trail. We can also say, those who have heard, are not fully aware of the views and the adventure this region has to offer. The trail goes along the Shivapuri National Park and buffers zone of Langtang National Park. With the blink of eyes, the drive from Kathmandu showcasing bustling city life shifts to calming views of lush green hills and snow-crusted mountains.
As you will hit the trail, numerous floras, diverse vegetations, exotic birds, and wildlife begin to appear in front of you. The villages along the trekking route get remote as the elevation increases. Old wooden and brick houses amidst the simple lifestyle of the people from Tamang and Sherpa Hyolmo will leave you with awe. The Helambu region has a very rich cultural heritage and beliefs that have been passed from generation to generation over centuries. And those are worth observing and appreciating. The views you will get to see on the trail are blissful, and the tranquility of the routes adds a zest of solitude to the journey.
The three reasons to trek in the Helambu region
- Quick access to the trail, however less crowded
- Not many travelers have explored the beauty of this region
- Good options for a family trek
Famous treks
Helambu Circuit Trek, you can extend the trip to Ganja La Pass or Gosaikunda Lake to make the trek adventurous and challenging
Mustang Region
Mustang Region, a popular name among travel enthusiasts but less visited because of all the restrictions and expensive permits (USD 500 for the first ten days and USD 50 every day after that) that the Nepal government has issued on the region. This has maintained the crowd of travelers from the day the upper part of the region got opened to welcome trekkers from all around the world. With that being said, it takes us to the fact that the Upper Mustang was closed for the outside world until 1992. Before we dive deeper into the Mustang region, you should know it is divided into two parts- Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang.
Everything in this part of Nepal is different whether we talk about geography, views, climate, or culture. Known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," Upper Mustang trekking is a privilege that only a handful of tourists get every year. The region is situated in the rain shadow of the Himalaya that allows you to trek in Upper Mustang during monsoon when all the trekking trails are closed. The views along the route are breathtakingly captivating, and the rich culture of the region presents the ancient beliefs of the locals. Everything here is still intact.
The best thing about trekking in Upper Mustang is that most parts of this region are still undiscovered, from high caves to natural minerals and hidden monasteries. The region has got highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and resembles Tibetan landscapes.
The three reasons to trek in the Mustang region
- Exclusive trekking trails that are allowed to a handful of travelers every year
- Numerous undiscovered caves, natural minerals sites, monasteries
- Centuries-old monasteries, unique lifestyle, rich cultural heritage, and stunning sceneries
Famous treks
Upper Mustang Trek, Lower Mustang Trek, Island Peak Climbing
Makalu Region
The Makalu region is one of the remotest parts of the Himalayas and is a protected area under the name of Makalu Barun National Park. Like other trekking regions of Nepal, the Makalu region has got its distinguishing traits that make trekking here a lifetime experience. The trail is wild as you will walk from lush subtropical Arun Valley and dense forests of rhododendron & fir that further leads to the alpine meadows and giant Barun Glacier. The region houses the fifth highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu, and offers panoramic views of other highest mountains like Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m).
Usually, trekkers trek to the Makalu Base Camp (5,250 m) and cross the difficult Shipton La Pass (4,127 m). The sceneries are heavenly, with isolated villages and the unique lifestyle of the locals. Sherpani Col (6,135 m), West Col (6,143 m), Salpa Bhanjyang (3,350 m), and Salpa Pokhari (3,443 m) are the names not heard commonly, are the places in the Makalu region. Trekking in Arun Valley is magnificent and lets you behold an extraordinary perspective of the Himalayas, not seen by many travelers.
The three reasons to trek in the Makalu region
- Off beaten and adventurous trail
- Long challenging journeys for those wanting to have a different perspective of the Himalaya and leave the crowded famous trails
- Get to see a diverse range of flora and fauna, including breath-taking mountain landscapes
Famous treks
Makalu Base Camp Trek, Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
Kanchenjunga Region
Kanchenjunga region covers the far East part of Nepal and borders Sikkim, an Indian state. The region houses Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), which stands alone from other Himalayan mountains like an alpha. It is the third highest mountain in the world and a very complex mountain to scale. The region is one of the remotest parts of the Himalayas, not touched by the bustle of tourism. Today, trekking in the Kanchenjunga region is like a privilege that demands strong physical fitness and high endurance. The trekkers have to have previous trekking experience as the terrain is challenging and offbeat.
Even in the peak season, you will barely see tourists on the trails. The views are pristine and unspoiled. The trail goes through dense forests and isolated villages. You can see exclusive Himalayan wildlife like snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red panda, and many others along the way. Likewise, numerous flora, herbal plants, and alpine vegetations will become your companion. Talking about the culture and tradition of the locals, you will be observing the communities of Olangchun Gola and Yangma. The people here follow the Bon religion that predates Tibetan Buddhism.
The three reasons to trek in the Manaslu region
- An exclusive trekking route that is traversed by only a handful of travelers
- Full of adventure, off beaten paths, and challenges
- Not crowded routes at all, an ideal option for a long trek, and spectacular views of the Himalayas
Famous treks
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek (you can choose to trek to either south base camp (4,780 m) or north base camp (5,100 m) or combine both of them)
Dolpo Region
If you want to travel back in time, then traverse the Upper Dolpo region, Situated in the far western part of Nepal, the Dolpo region stands high and alone from the rest of the country. Everything here is the same, from the lifestyle of the locals to their ancient beliefs. Trekking in the Dolpo region can be quite challenging and requires a well-planned itinerary. The trail is not developed at all, and camping is required. The almost non-existent tourist infrastructure makes the Dolpo trekking expensive, but the reward you will get in exchange is nothing compared to.
This region is part of restricted areas of Nepal, which demands expensive permits, a compulsory guide, and at least two people in the group (not including the guide & porters). The region has the jewel of the Himalayas, Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,611.5 m), and centuries-old Shey Gompa (4,320 m). Likewise, you will see Crystal mountain, whose cliff is covered with quartz and marine fossils. Moreover, the locals still practice shamanism and Bon Po. This is the place that is mentioned in the book called "The Snow Leopard" by Peter Matthiessen and the oscar-nominated movie "Himalaya" by Eric Valli.
The three reasons to trek in the Manaslu region
- You will follow the footprints of the ancient trans-Himalayan traders
- Sleep under the sky full of stars and rejuvenate your soul with the novelty carried in the air
- Travel back in time and get to see the unique lifestyle of the locals, shamanism & Bon Po practices
What is the best time to trek in Nepal?
The best time to trek in Nepal is during the autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry, with pleasant temperatures.
What is the highest altitude reached on these treks?
The highest altitude reached on these treks varies depending on the region. The Everest Base Camp trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,545 meters, while the Annapurna Circuit trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,416 meters.
How difficult are these treks?
The difficulty level of these treks varies. Some treks, such as the Langtang Valley trek and the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, are relatively easy and suitable for beginners. Other treks, such as the Everest Base Camp trek and the Manaslu Circuit trek, are more challenging and require a higher level of fitness and experience.
Are permits required for these treks?
Yes, permits are required for all these treks. The cost and type of permits vary depending on the region. For example, the Annapurna Circuit trek requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
Is it safe to trek in Nepal?
Yes, trekking in Nepal is generally safe. However, it is important to take necessary precautions and follow the advice of your guide. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so it is important to acclimatize properly and know the symptoms.
What kind of accommodation is available on these treks?
The accommodation on these treks varies from basic teahouses to more luxurious lodges. In some regions, camping is also an option. It is important to note that the quality of accommodation may vary depending on the location and season.
Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter?
It is not necessary to hire a guide or porter, but it is highly recommended. A guide can provide valuable information about the region and culture, while a porter can carry your luggage and make your trek more comfortable.
Can these treks be done solo?
Yes, these treks can be done solo, but it is not recommended for inexperienced trekkers. Solo trekking can be dangerous, and having a guide or porter can provide added safety and support.
Are there any age restrictions for these treks?
There are no specific age restrictions for these treks, but it is important to consider the difficulty level and altitude before embarking on a trek. It is also important to consult with your doctor before trekking, especially if you have any medical conditions.
What kind of gear is required for these treks?
The gear required for these treks varies depending on the region and season. Basic gear includes sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, and a backpack. It is important to check with your guide or tour operator for a comprehensive packing list.
