Trekking in Nepal in 2020: The Definitive Guide

Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is the best option for trekking experience in the country for those looking to savor the spectacular close up views of the world’s highest peaks. The trek provides trekkers and hikers a chance to explore the most wonderful scenery of the Sherpa villages and their lifestyle in the Khumbu region. 

Trekking through the trails of destinations like the famous Namche Bazaar- also known as the “gateway to Everest”, Tengboche and Dingboche, the Everest Base Camp Trek are the best elements and aspects of trekking in the Khumbu and to the base camp of the world’s tallest peak Mount Everest where you get to pass on the footprints of legendary mountaineers, the Sagarmatha National Park, view sights of beautiful mountain peaks like Nuptse, Lhotse, and the Ama Dablam among many others.

This is an exclusive trekking experience that also offers the trekkers to enjoy the presence of Khumbu Icefall and the Khumbu Glacier with the Tengboche Monastery as its spiritual hub. En route, you pass through beautiful High Passes and roaring Dudhkoshi River.

The viewpoint of Kalapatthar presents absolutely amazing views of the Everest massif. Thus, it is considered as one of the best trekking journeys to do in the country, with thousands of trekkers participating in it every year.

Gokyo Lake Trek

Gokyo Lakes is an adventurous journey to the alluring Gokyo lakes and Gokyo Ri which offers one of the most amazing viewpoints for great views of Everest, other Himalayas and the Oligotrophic lake in the Sagarmatha National Park. The Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek is an alternative to classical treks in the Everest region. 

The Gokyo Lakes are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. We also get to marvel at the massive Ngozumpa Glacier and the Gokyo valley from Gokyo Ri. The view is of the landscapes dramatically change, offering panoramic views of the spectacular Cho Oyu, Everest, Gokyo lake that is comprised of the six other lakes. 

It is a 14-day trip which begins in Kathmandu. The trek starts from Lukla after half an hour mountain flight from Kathmandu following up the Dudh Koshi River towards Namche, the gateway of Khumbu region. This is a perfect trek for those wanting to try something new in the Everest region.

This trek diverts from the regular route taken by most of the trekkers and instead, takes you along a less traveled trail in the Everest region, allowing you to cherish the beauty that lies in the sapphire lakes of Gokyo. It gives an alternative to the traditional Everest base camp trekking. 

Gokyo Lakes trek from Machhermo offers the view of the landscapes dramatically changing to broad pastures, narrow clefts with steeply climbing trails an icy stream to cross stony wastes and the banks of turns. As you ascend up the Gokyo RI, you will be rewarded by the best views of the mountains like Cho Oyu, Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse. Climbing Gokyo Ri is the major highlight of this trek. 

Cho La Pass Trek

Cho La Pass Trek offers you the fusion of all the Everest region treks. It gives the grand trip of the Khumbu valley leading to Gokyo Lake, over Cho La, Tawache and Cholatse. The trail passes through renowned regions like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and other regions of the Khumbu district.

As you follow these trails, you get to explore the charming landscapes that change empathetically, the lush green forests, monasteries, Colorful prayer flags, Mane, vibrant cultures and lifestyle of the people living in this region and many more. Crossing the Cho La Pass is an achievement you’ll be able to cherish for your lifetime. 

The trek begins from the bustling town of Kathmandu, where you take a 40 min flight to Luka, enjoying the splendid views of the scenery. From Lukla, you hike up to the Khumbu region following the trial to the Cho La Pass.

The trek is continuously rewarded with getting the sight of the endangered flora and fauna, glaciers, magnificent views of the Himalayan vistas including Cho Oyu (8,201), Makalu (8,463m), Lhotse (8,516m) and Everest (8,848m) that are four among the world’s highest 8 mountains, e.t.c. It includes some brief climb to the Kalapathar, Gokyo Ri, Everest Base Camp etc that offers a chilling and laborious excitement to reach the destination and thrills your emotions.

The significance of the cultures and religions blending perfectly with nature will mesmerize you. Overall, Cho La Pass Trek is a nerve shaking experience of being in the top of the world with a climb along the Gokyo Ri. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna is a massif in the Himalayas in north-central Nepal that includes one peak over 8,000 metres (26,000 ft), thirteen peaks over 7,000 metres (23,000 ft), and sixteen more over 6,000 metres (20,000 ft). Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the second most famous trek after the Everest Camp in Nepal.

It provides superb views of Annapurna South and Mt Fishtail, Typical Gurung villages, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Panoramic views of Annapurnas, terraced rice paddies, lush rhododendron forests, and natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to the base of Mount Annapurna that is above 8000 meters, passing through the hospitable villages and delightful valleys in a short period of time. 

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a brilliant way to enjoy the vibrant culture and tradition of the local inhabitants of the mountain people along with the chromatic peaks of Mount Annapurna. This is the best alternative to fulfill the wish of being in the base of Annapurna for those having only a short time.

Annapurna region has much diversity of the country and the trek takes you to the heart of the mountains sooner than any other mountain treks. The tea house and lodges in the Annapurna Trekking Region are well equipped with a variety of menus ranging from the typical Nepali dahl bath to pizza and chow mein. Hot showers are readily available as well.

If you are planning to trek in the winter months please check with a travel agency to confirm which lodges are open.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trekking journey in the Annapurna region that has often been voted as the best long-distance trek in the world. The diverse ethnic-culture, mountain scenery, lifestyles and landscape of this region are incredibly amazing and worth exploring.

The mountain scenery along the circuit includes the Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak and the Paungda Danda. Numerous other peaks of 6000-8000 meters in elevation also rise from the Annapurna range. 

The trek begins at Besisahar or Bhulbhule in the Marshyangdi river valley after a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu and terminates at the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The trail follows bamboo and tropical vegetation as we climb up through the green lush hills into the alpine forest and higher.

You can visit Muktinath temple on your way down to the Kali Gandaki gorge. The way while descending follows pine and rhododendron forest to natural hot springs. You can rejuvenate yourself and cleanse yourself from the dust of the long trekking, in the hot springs. Annapurna circuit circles the majestic Annapurna massif in an anti-clockwise direction and takes you to explore a variety of low-altitude and high-altitude landscapes. 

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is the ultimate short trek in the Himalayas that is suitable for people of all ages. It is 4-5 days of trek and the ultimate destination of this trek is Poonhill (3,210m), from where you get to view the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Lamjung Himal, etc.

You can either follow the Ghandruk trail and explore Gurung community on your way to Ghorepani or follow the Ulleri trial, nevertheless, both trail offers you splendid views and excitement. Spending a night at Ghorepani after trekking through the trail following the stone staircases, village settlement, rhododendron forests and mountain views along the way, we leave for Poonhill viewpoint early in the morning the next day when it’s still dark, to view the sunrise from between the mountain massifs.

The sunrise seems spectacular and feels surreal when the aureate rays of the sun fall on the mountain peaks. 

Trekking Ghorepani Poon hill allows your body to get adjusted and accustomed with a high elevation and keeping your body fit as a fiddle. Ghorepani Poon hill trek is a great introduction to the Himalayas, especially if time is short. The lodges and tea houses are impressive even in the higher villages and offer you good variety of menus for fooding.

Some of the places also have Wi-fi services. And of course, the breathtaking mountains never disappoint you either in their fully photogenic beauty!

Manaslu Larke Pass Trek

Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is the “untarnished” natural paradise Nepal trekking located on the border between Nepal and Tibet. This trek flaunts the amazing panoramas of the mountain peaks on the Nepal-Tibet border. Mount Manaslu is the highest peak in the Gorkha district and the eighth highest peak in the world. This trek also provides close interaction with the different ethnic groups who live in the higher villages scattered along the route. 

Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is an incredible experience for those looking for daring adventure. The Manaslu Conservation Area established in this region embraces sub-tropical Himalayan foothills to arid Trans-Himalayan pastures bordering Tibet. The trek follows a hidden and enriched topography trail crossing Hindu and Tibetan-style villages with diverse cultures of ancient Buddhist monasteries.

Crossing the Larke La Pass 5215 m is the Biggest Challenge of this trek which provides spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains. This trek also offers spectacular views of Himal Chuli 7893m, Ganesh Himal 7422m, Shringi Himal 7161m and Manaslu Himal 8156m including the Flora and Fauna en voyage. 

Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek is a rare privilege in the dry and windy landscape where you will get to experience a way of life of true mountain people, who have had very little contact with the rest of Nepal for centuries and cherished their rich cultural heritage.

It is one of the most exotic locations in the country with one of the most well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist religion practice in the whole world with whitewashed houses and firewood tucked on the roof.

This region lies in the rain-shadow zone of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges on an ancient trade route between Nepal and Tibet capitalizing on the lowest pass of the Kora La through the Himalayas of West Sikkim. 

LoManthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, is the goal of this trek. It is a medieval old town, surrounded by a huge town wall where you get to wander through the narrow valleys. The journey starts from a flight to Jomson from Pokhara and trek onwards following the famous Kagbeni river upstream to Kagbeni with a special trekking permit and accompanies of a government-appointed official.

Few accommodation facilities available above Kagbeni as some villagers nowadays have opened some small guest houses where you can spend the overnight.  Mustang has a remarkable terrain of a semi-arid desert with deep ravines and rock shelves, decorated with snowy peaks. Upper Mustang Trek is the best option for one craving to explore the fascinating landscape and the rich Tibetan culture.

Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley Trek is a pleasant short trek that offers spectacular close-up views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers of Langtang Lirung (7246m), Kimshung (6781m) and Langshisha Ri (6370m). The trail encompasses some of the most prepossessing natural sceneries found in the country. This trek also passes through the Langtang National Park, which is the first Himalayan National Park in the country.

The trekking begins from the lower region of the Langtang Valley through small villages, farmlands lush green forests to Kyangjin Gompa. The trail ascends the Langtang Valley from just 1470m at Syabrubesi to hit 3870m at Kyanjin Gompa, following the rushing Langtang Khola river past lush forests and bamboo groves to a collection of high alpine pastures, glaciers, and peaks on the border with Tibet.

The high altitude sacred lake of Gosaikunda falls within the National Park in this region. You get the sight of Langtang Lirung Himal while trekking with the other mountain peaks like Ganesh Himal, Tserko Ri, Dorje Lakpa and the Kyanjin Ri which makes your journey exciting. 

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal is a mountain with a height of 5587 m in the Annapurna area in Nepal. It lies less than 20 km north from Pokhara. It is a newly opened trail in the Annapurna region. Mardi Himal base camp is 4500 meters above sea level. It is an unspoiled yet short and easy trek in the Annapurna region. The trek follows beaten trails of shepherds as it still provides summer grazing.

Mardi is highly diverse with cultural insight, beautiful forest walk and alpine landscape. The trial turns out to be beautiful and captivating during the cold when it starts snowing. The majestic view of Mt. Machhapuchhare and Annapurna range can be seen best from Mardi.

It takes one and a half hours from Pokhara to reach Phedi. The trekking starts from Phedi and trek to Deurali with further trials to Forest camp, Low camp, High camp, Sidhing village, Lumre and back to Pokhara. The natural beauty of Mardi is distinctly scattered throughout the region.

The valleys and mountain ridges at the foot of the Mardi Himal are steep and strongly overgrown with bamboo and rhododendrons. Mardi Himal Trek is best for nature lovers who want to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region, away from the bustling crowds. 

Trekking in Nepal FAQ

Why should I go Trekking in Nepal?

Nepal is the world’s top-ranking destination for trekking. It possesses a lot of trekking spots ranging from the short and easy trek to difficult and lengthy ones. It is a naturally and culturally blessed country with fertile plains, subalpine forest and eight of the world’s tallest mountains, including Mount Everest.

The trails offer spectacular viewpoints making every second being in the Himalayas of Nepal worth it. It is also comparatively cheaper than other countries, making it perfect for trekking.

Do I need a guide or I can go on my own?

Some of the hiking routes in Nepal Himalayas can trek without a guide. However, in particular areas such as restricted regions, it is compulsory to hire a Guide. These places can only be visited after completing certain paperwork for the government is keen on preserving the beauty and culture of the place.

Hiring guides is worth it as they are awesome to trek with and are full of knowledge.

Will I have to carry my own stuff?

You won’t have to carry much as there are local lodges along the way. But it’s beneficial if you hire one. If you are going for Trekking with a trekking company, they will manage a porter for you and if not, you will have to carry your stuff yourself.

Is it expensive to go to Nepal?

Nepal is one of the countries where trekking costs the lowest. You can enjoy either luxury or budget travel in accordance with your choice and money. The cost varies according to the place you’re planning to trek to. For example, Everest Base Camp costs a bit more than the other trekking packages. The food and lodging in the remote Himalaya areas will cost more than in the lower city areas.

Will you get altitude sickness?

There are chances of getting altitude sickness when you are trekking in the higher altitudes above 3000 m. But it can be prevented if you have prepared well before going for trekking. Have a full medical checkup with a qualified medical doctor and purchase any recommended medicines. Also, walk slowly at your usual pace while trekking and spend a day for acclimatization. Then you will not have to worry about getting altitude sickness.

How long should I go to Nepal for trekking?

If you are planning for a short trek on the Kathmandu valley rim, one week is sufficient. But trekking to the Annapurna base camp, Langtang valley, or trek into the Everest region for views of Mt. Everest can take about two weeks. Three weeks will allow you the opportunity for an extended trek to the Everest Base Camp or a trek around the Annapurna Circuit, allowing you to spend a few days in Kathmandu.