Trekking in Nepal Overview
Nepal has always remained a heartthrob among the people of the world for it is a widely popular trekking destination with immense natural beauty and naturally friendly people.
The country is extensively acclaimed for being the home of world tallest peak Mt. Everest accompanied by many other high snow-capped peaks. Adventure and the diverse culture, history and lush natural landscape intertwined together is what makes Nepal such a popular destination among the tourists that surge in at staggering amounts every year.
Among all those things that Nepal has to offer, Trekking is by far the most popular choice among the adventure-seeking tourists of this tiny nation. Hundred of thousands of foreigners just flock to the mountainous region of the country for the tranquil views of the snowy peaks that enrich one’s life phenomenally.
To get to know the real way of the Nepali people while indulging in their day to day life, culture and tradition also are one of the major reasons that make trekking in Nepal so popular.
If you are planning on a trip to Nepal, don’t worry folks there are a lot of trekking journeys with splendid vistas that Nepal has in store for you.
Passing along many religious sites and spiritual destination, you are bound to have a once in a lifetime experience.
The wholesome experience of culture, picturesque views and religiousness makes trekking in Nepal a wholesome affair.
The best of the best treks that the small yet diverse country of Nepal has to provide are listed down below.
Best 10 Treks that You Should NOt Miss in 2024
#1 Everest Base Camp Kalapathar Trek in 2024
The trek that hosts its destination at a staggering elevation of 5600 meters often remains the choice of the adventure seekers wanting to get a glimpse of the starting point of the summit to the highest peak in the world.
Its maximum point is Kalapathar, where the trek sees its final form.
This 14 days long trek is one of the most popular selections among the tourists visiting Nepal.
The selection is quite obvious as the region provides the visitors with the maximum amount of beautiful views along the way while also providing them with a glimpse into MT. Everest.
The moderate Everest base camp trek’s best season to visit is March-May and October-November.
However, while embarking on the trek the accommodation services sure get expensive. As a matter of fact, you would have to adjust in a teahouse based accommodation while on the course of the trek.
The trek commences as you make the flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Accompanied by enticing Sherpa culture and antique monasteries, you will undoubtedly be spellbound by the landscapes you come across along the way.
With the glaciers, hanging icicles and glamorous landscapes crossing your path time and again the level of awe will just surge through your veins.
Talking about prices, the range of US $1200 to $5000 is applicable on an individual basis depending on the type of amenities you want during your time on the journey.
The prices generally incorporate the costs of accommodation, meals, permits, round trip flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and so on.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 5600m, Kalapatthar
Trek Duration: 10-16 Days (Medium Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Medium Hard Level 3, Rocky and Himalayan Glacier Trails
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in Kathmandu
Best time to trek: March-May, Mid September-Mid December
Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Highlights of Trekking
- Kathmandu-Lukla Flight
- Tengboche Monastery
- Namche Bazar
- Kalapathar – the viewpoint for Mt. Everest and other 8000ers Mountains
#2 Annapurna Base Camp Trek in 2024
The Annapurna Base Camp wins the second spot on our list as it is a awesome blend of adventure, scenery, and fun.
The trek lets you explore the cultural Gurung villages such as Tadapani, Poon Hill and Deurali.
The far off locations of the villages make them hard to access which entails that modernization has not touched the village just yet and they provide a unique traditional flare to their way of life.
The 12-days trek is a great way to indulge in the local way of the people in the region while also enjoying the views that the mountainous region has to offer.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 4320m, Annapurna Base Camp
Trek Duration: 7-12 Days (Medium Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Moderate Level 2
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best time to trek: March-May, Mid September-Mid December
Permits: TIMS, ACAP
Highlights of Trekking
- Gurung Culture
- ABC, glimpses of mountains
#3 Upper Mustang Trek in 2024
The Upper Mustang Trek has something very different in store for your adventurous soul, something you have never expected.
Detaching from the greenery of the rest of the country, Mustang has a windy and dry climate almost like a desert.
Although the climate is different this region seems to be widely popular among the tourists. Formerly known as the kingdom of Lo, this destination sure is one of the exotic ones.
The orthodox Tibetan Buddhist culture of the people is quite a fascination among the people of the world.
This region is also a historic hub for trade between Nepal and Tibet right from the inception of the trade routes.
Mustang once was an independent kingdom and reciprocates the culture as well as the language of Tibet.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 3810, Dhakmar
Trek Duration: 14-18 Days (Longer Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Medium Hard, 4 Level
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best time to trek: March-May, October-November, the trek can be accessible during monsoon and winter.
Permits: TIMS, ACAP, restricted permit required
Highlights of Trekking
- Lo-manthang capital of Mustang
- Sahara desert of Nepal
- Unique Tibetan influenced culture, history and vegetation
- Kaligandaki river valley
#4 Manasalu Circuit Trek in 2024
The Manasalu Circuit Trek gives you a firsthand taste into the splendid nature of mount Manasalu and its surrounding region. Often referred to as the mountain of souls Mt. Manasalu is the eighth highest mountain peak in the world.
Featuring long ridges and glaciers, the mountain has a major edge in the department of view.
Passing through the off beaten path we are greeted by a variety of majestic glaciers, lush green forests and cultural villages along the way.
This is also the route for traditional salt trading, so you can take in thousands of years of tradition as you walk through these paths.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 5,160 meters, Larkya-La Pass
Trek Duration: 14-18 Days (Longer Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Medium Hard Level 4
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in cities
Best time to trek: March-May, October-November
Permits: TIMS, MCAP, RAP
Highlights of Trekking
- Crossing Larkya-La Pass
- Diverse topography and vegetation
- Tibetan influenced culture
- Less crowded trekking
#5 Annapurna Circuit Trek in 2024
Annapurna Circuit Trek will take you to the maximum elevation of 5416 meters. The final destination of Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the trek.
The foothills of the entire Annapurna range are for your senses to grasp in those 15 days amidst the mountainous terrain.
Thorong La Pass, Kali Gandaki Gorge(the deepest in the world), Muktinath Temple, Tilicho Lake, the local villages and communities of Gurungs and Magars remains the major highlight of the package offered.
However, the peak season sees a lot of influx of the tourist in this circuit which makes it quite hard to appreciate the beauty of the splendid vicinity surrounding you.
With the best times to visit being March-May and October-November, the price of this particular package requires your greens at the range of USD 800 to 2000.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 5416 meters, Thorong-La Pass
Trek Duration: 13-16 Days (Medium Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Moderate Level 3
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best time to trek: March-May, Mid September-Mid December
Permits: TIMS, ACAP
Highlights of Trekking
- Crossing Thorong-La Pass
- Kaligandaki River valley
- Muktinath temple, kagbeni
- Hot spring at tatopani
- Gurung and Magar villages
#6 Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in 2024
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of those few treks which especially focuses on the views rather than the destination. The vistas that are at your disposal through the trek shall enrich your life phenomenally.
One of the easiest treks to embark upon, Annapurna Panorama Trek lets you indulge in a wondrous view of the Annapurna range up close without any complication of altitude sickness.
The serene view that Poon Hill (3210m) has to offer is the major attraction of this trek.
Generally, over sunrise, this place just lights up with the bright view of the mountains reflecting the morning sun.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: Poon Hill (3210m)
Trek Duration: 3-7 Days (Short Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Easy Level 1
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best time to trek: All the year round
Permits: TIMS, ACAP
Highlights of Trekking
- Poonhill, hilltop viewpoint for mountains
- Annapurna sunrise
- Rhododendron forest trek route
- Magar and Gurung villages and ethnic culture
#7 Everest Gokyo Lake Trek in 2024
The Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is a gem on its own as it takes you through the less-traveled roads leading to the base of the highest mountain peak of the world, Mt. Everest.
With that being said there is a lot less influx of tourists at these off beaten paths.
The trail also allows you to cherish the splendid views of the highest freshwater lake in the world.
There are six such lakes that let you indulge in the view of their turquoise water reflecting the splendid view of the snow-capped mountains.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 5,357 m, Gokyo Ri
Trek Duration: 14-18 Days (Longer Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Medium Hard Level 3
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in cities
Best time to trek: March-May, October-November, Accessible also in winter
Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Highlights of Trekking
- Beautiful gokyo village and Lakes
- Himalayan views from Gokyo-Ri
#8 Langtang Valley Trek in 2024
Langtang Valley Trek always remains in a high priority list of the tourists as it is one of the nearest trekking routes to the city of Kathmandu. In fact, the trek commences from a place named Syabrubesi which is only 8 hrs of driving away from Kathmandu.
As you undertake the walking, you come across many pine forests, stormy streams, boulders, grassy magical meadows and wide pastures that would just fill your soul with the highest level of fulfillment.
Not to miss, the spellbinding views of Mt Langtang-Ri, Langtang Himal and Ganjala Peak that will greet you along the way.
There are a lot of trekking options available in the country but it is upon you to choose a suitable package for you.
The trekking packages that perfectly intertwine with your needs is worth all your spending. After all, it’s all about that experience!
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 4,984 meters, Tserko Ri
Trek Duration: 8-12 Days (Medium Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Moderate Level 3
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in cities
Best time to trek: March-May, Mid September-Mid December, Accessible in monsoon and winter
Permits: TIMS, No entry permits required
Highlights of Trekking
- Kyanjin Gompa
- Langtang Valley
- Exploration of Mt. Langtang, Ganjala peak
- Tamang culture
#9 Kanchenjunga Trek in 2024
Rated as one of the finest terrains to trek on by many, Kanchenjunga stands as one of the finest destinations for trekking in the Himalayan region of Nepal.
Serenity and adventure intertwined into one experience, the trek takes you through the lush green forests of Nepal while also making sure of a tete-a-tete with the rocky and slippery trails.
As the mountain lies in the eastern region of Nepal the culture, as well as the vegetation, have quite a lot of variety.
There are a lot of glaciers as well in the region generating off of 4 major streams of the mountain of Kanchanjunga. As you walk through the less-traveled path of the region, you get a major chance to be acquainted with the villages of Rai and Limbu community.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 5,200 meters, Pang Pema
Trek Duration: 21-25 Days (Longer Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Hard level 4
Accommodation: Camping
Best time to trek: March-May, October-November
Permits: TACAP, RAP
Highlights of Trekking
- Kanchenunga Conversation Area, wildlife and vegetation
- Ghunsa, Lonak, and Pang Pema Base Camp
- Mt. Kanchenjunga north and south views
#10 Makalu Base Camp Trek in 2024
At the tenth spot of our list is the splendid yet adventurous trek to Makalu Base camp. The trek to the base camp of the fifth highest mountain in the world provides you with the most serene of views.
The tranquil mount Makalu is located in the Mahalangur Himalayan Range which is located on the southeastern side of the Mahalangur Himalayan Range located southeast to Mt. Everest right near the border of Nepal and China.
The pyramid-shaped mountain peaks at a height of 8481m. Makalu is a rather new trekking destination which recently opened its gates for the expedition.
Being said that, there are a lot fewer tourists in the area compared to other destinations. The trek to the base camp is made a spectacular one as it passes by the charming Arun valley.
Given its remote nature of associability and off the beaten path the views are more crisp and untouched by urbanization in any way.
The trekkers shall experience firsthand the culture of people who live in the village of Tumlingtar as that one of the major spots while on the trek.
The uneven terrains take you to the Makalu Barun Park which covers a surface area of 1500 sq.km. Alongside the lush tropical forests filled with flora and fauna, you shall have a wonderful experience as you reach the base camp of Makalu.
Trek Facts
Maximum Elevation: 5250 meters, Shersong ridge
Trek Duration: 19-22 Days (Longer Trekking)
Trek Difficulty: Hard
Accommodation: Teahouse on trekking, hotel in cities
Best time to trek: March-May, October-November
Permits: TIMS, Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit
Highlights of Trekking
- Makalu Barun National Park
- Remote area trekking
- Rare view of Panda lifestyle
- Eastern view of Mt. Everest
Most Remote Trek in Nepal
- Number Cheese Circuit Trek
- Indigenous People Trail Trek
- Lapchi Kang Milarepa Cave Trek
- Mundum Trail Trek
- Manaslu Trek
- Pikey Peak Trek
- Mohare Danda and Khopra Trek
- Lamjung Himal Trek
- Namun La Pass Trek
- Baglungpani and Ghanpokhara Trek
- Rolwaling Valley Trek
- Tashi Lapcha Trek
- Khaptad National Park Trek
- Jumla to Rara Lake Trek
- Bigu Gompa Trek
- Nar Phu Circuit Trek with Four Passes
- Churen Himal Base Camp Trek
- Gurja Himal Trek
- Limi Valley Trek
- Gurja Himal Dhorpatan Trek
- Nagi Village Trek
- Muldai View Point Trek
Nepal Trekking Information
Visa Processing – Entering in Nepal
When you land at the only international airport of Nepal, Tribhuwan International Airport the Nepali vibes just greets you with open arms. As you enter the TIA, you need to fill in a arrival card followed by a online tourist visa form in order to obtain a Visa On Arrival. After going through the forms you must make payment at the bank depending on the length of your stay. The prices are determined as US$25/40/100 for 15 days, 30 days and 90 days respectively.
If you choose to obtain your visa prior to following the process at the airport (might be a good idea as the crowds of tourists are just staggering during peak seasons) you would rather prefer to visit the nearest Nepalese Diplomatic Missions with the required documents.
Accommodation During Trekking
There is a variety of services that are available at your disposal when it concerns the housing aspect of your stay. While in Kathmandu there are a huge plethora of hotels, hostels and home stays that are waiting to cater your needs. While the cheapest of hostels will cost you somewhere around $10 to $23 the 5 star hotels with the state of the art amenities decrease your cash holdings by $140 to $700, depending on your taste.
Although there are a lot of options you can choose for in the city areas, the variety is pretty bleak when it comes to the hilly and mountain region. Mostly the mountainous region where access is quite hard people charge more for the living facilities they provide charging extras for facilities like hot showers and charging your electronic devices. Per night stay will cost you around $50-$100.
Tea House Trekking
Tea House Trekking is also known as lodge trek. Teahouse trekking along the main trails is the most common style, with decent lodges in every settlement (and between), it is possible to trek in comfort with minimal preparation, and equipment and support.Trekkers are dependent upon many teahouses and locally available inns along the trails. Along the trek you will have some best facility available and some are very basic so it requires compromising with your consideration and keeping in mind sense of adventure. Trekking in this way minimizes the costs and is less affected by diverse weather conditions.The main areas for these treks are Everest/Khumbu Langtang and Annapurna. Since 2010, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has become possible without camping in tea-houses; it also offers some comfort on some of the harshest terrain on earth. All of our treks are accompanied by local guides who lead trekker/s in the regions where there is access to local inns. A porter is also arranged if & when necessary to carry equipment relevant to the trip. Teahouse is popular choice of trekkers and very easy too but best option to observe Nepalese lifestyle. There are frequent lodges / teahouse in the most popular trekking routes where trekkers can stop where ever they want for meals / accommodation according with their timeframe. On trek you are guided by an English-speaking Sherpa guide, assisted by Sherpa staff. All main baggage is carried by porters, yaks or horses / mules.
Camping Trekking
Camping Trek is one of the classic styles of trekking in Nepal also known as fully organized trek. Trekkers are fully dependent on locally hired staff which makes up a pretty large outfit since not only the trekkers’ personal gear needs to be carried but also the group equipment and food. The classic style of trekking in Nepal and can be conducted almost anywhere in the country. Camping trekking is fully organized and supported with a team of guides, cooks, Sherpa and porters to accompany you. Camping treks, however expensive they may be, has its own unique rewards offering a truly enjoyable experiences for visits to more remote regions where no tea houses or local infrastructures are available. The cook will prepare all the meals during the camping trek. Trekkers need to carry only a small bag as required for the day. At night, tents for dining, sleeping and ablution are provided and set up. Mattresses, sleeping bags, tables and seating are arranged by staff. All the necessary trekking gears; food, fuel and other goods are carried by the porters. Camping treks are typically done in the regions of Kanchenjunga, Dolpa, Makalu, and Manaslu. The typical days of camping trek also follows the same as teahouse trekking as timetable and the foods will we cooked by well trained cook. At camping spot some of our staff team likes to sing song and dance too or some places mother group of local community may come to perform their local culture show. Food on trek is a mixture of Western and local dishes and there is plenty of it, and plenty of choice. Foods are so good that even sometimes our trekker’s warned us to take our cook to their home.
Transport and How to Get Around
You can either book a taxi inside the airport after you arrive at the airport counter or you can make the booking beforehand. Depending on the location of the place you are staying at from the hotel, the prices can stand somewhere in the range of $8-$5. If you’re in a group or like your spaces free, there are options of rental services as well.
If you happen to be in Kathmandu, the capital of the country, you can easily get your way around town as people are very friendly. As a matter of fact, everyone would help you out if you just ask for it. However, you are advised to get a map of the city or even hire a tour guide if you need some assistance to explore the city of Kathmandu.
If you need to travel to other parts of the country choosing a tour packager suitable to your need is a viable option. Yet, if you desire to get to other part of the countries yourself, you might consider heading to the central bus station of Kathmandu or the Tribhuwan International Station.
You can also make booking of the buses through various online sources. The travel to any part of the country might set your cash down in the range of $5-$45.
What is Trekking?
Trekking is an Afrikaan word that literally meaning “pull, travel”. Trekking is an adventure activity involving multidays walking holidays in the Himalayas. Trekking can be done walking on a variety of terrains, through the rugged trails, jungles, villages, terraced fields and valley.
Depending upon the altitude how much high you go, trekking can be easy or challenging. Simply, it’s a challenging hiking that requires to be physically and mentally fit walking a long days across the Himalayan path. It is also known as backpacking which involves carrying your own bag packs with a guide or independent.
Trekking Grades – Difficulty in Trekking
Trekkers without previous experience are offered a diverse range of easy treks. The easy trek involves no difficult climbing or ascents to high altitudes and is usually less than a week & suitable for everyone.
Medium treks are more challenging than easy at this altitude; you will be rewarded with close-up views of bigger mountains. The medium treks are also considered to have full access to tea houses at altitudes less than 4000m.
Medium-hard these treks ascend to altitudes up to 5000m and involve some steep climbing, although it is never necessary to use ropes.
Hard Trek All expeditions are based on camps and will go above the tree-lines where the snow-line is fully evident up to altitudes above 5000m. One needs to be fully fit for ventures of this kind & the rewards are phenomenal.
Wilderness treks these are the most challenging treks with some technical climbing to peaks above 6000m. One must have experience of climbing above 5000m levels to perform these types of treks Wilderness Treks are for trekkers who wish to explore the unseen and unspoiled regions of Nepal.
Trekking Permits
A trekking permit issued by the Department of Immigration is required to trek in any part of Nepal, except the most popular areas of Annapurna, Khumbu and Langtang/Helambu.
Those areas were declared permit-free in 1999. The joy was short-lived, though, as a new system called TIMS (Trekker Information Management System) was recently created for those three areas. Be sure you have a TIM’s card with you when trekking independently or organized.
Several National Parks and Conservation areas like ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and Sagarmatha National Park (Everest area) require trekkers to pay an entrance fee.
Restricted areas require the old trekking permit (but not the TIMS card), which are obtainable only through the organizing trekking agent for areas like Dolpo, Mustang, Manaslu, Kanchenjunga and other similar areas.
Nepal trekking fee is not requiring for regular routes of Everest, Langtang and Annapurna. Trekking to these region is only requires TIMS fee (Trekkers Information Management System) and conservation fee.
TIMS fee costs about US $ 10 for the organized trek through the recognized agency and US $ 20 for individual trekkers.
Trekking fee can be paid in Nepalese currency. Not with standing anything written above the Indian Citizen can pay in Nepalese currency equivalent to US Dollars and to get a group trekking permit an application form with other relevant document should be submitted through any registered trekking agency of Nepal.
4 Useful Tips for a successful trekking holidays in Nepal
According to the variation in geographical altitude, trekking in Nepal has categorized as the easy, moderate and challenging treks. Trekking in Nepal itself an adventure holiday activity popular in Nepal.
While going for Trekking to Nepal Himalayas, you need to know some tips that may be useful to you for your successful trekking holidays in Nepal.
Keep Walking
While going for trekking to Nepal Himalayas, you need to be physically and mentally fit. Trekking in Nepal involves walking about 6-7 hours a day on a Himalayan rugged path so the first step for trekking will be stretching of your legs and walking that gives you physical strength to hike up to Mountains.
Get a health check up
Before making decision to trek in Nepal, you need to check yourself physically and mentally. If you have heart diseases, asthama, you cannot hike to Himalayas or walk for long time so physical check up is needed to get rid of high altitude sickness risk.
Choosing of best hiking shoes/boots
When you are physically and mentally fit for trekking, you need to have the good shoes that will be comfort and easy to wear. You can buy the good boots in Kathmandu and Pokhara shoes store.
Hire a government certified and experienced Trekking guide
Trekking solo is banned in Nepal and for successful trekking holiday, you can hire an experienced trekking guide either independent/freelancer or from a trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
10 Things Not to Miss While Trekking in Nepal in 2024
Magnificent Mountain views
Nepal being a Himalayan country, the magnificent views of Himalayan ranges is seen even in the short and medium treks. The world’s greatest mountain ranges can be viewed in the short trekking distance from Kathmandu and Pokhara at the classical viewpoints like Nagarkot and Sarangkot. So, you better not miss it. In long treks you get to reach at the base of those enormous mountains and experience its beauty and greatness.
Himalayan Sunrise and Sunset
The enormous beauty when the first ray of sun strikes the mountains and evolving sunrise through the hills cannot be explained in words. Many people go the classical view-points near Kathmandu and Pokhara to experience the sunrise. So, do not miss it while trekking in Nepal. Early morning trek of 2-3 hours can reach to the viewpoint with the tantalizing view if sunlight. Kalapatthar, Gokyo Ri, Nagarkot, Poon Hill, Sarangkot are the best viewpoints for sunrise over the Himalayas.
Art and Culture
Experiencing the ancient art and culture can be an important aspect of your trek. Trek in Nepal is full of Hindu and Buddhist art and culture which have great historical and religious importance. Most of the trek in northern Nepal is full of ethnic Tibetan culture with lots of monasteries where you can rest and meditate during the trek.
Lifestyle of People
Nepalese are poor but very hardworking people. During the trek you encounter typical Nepalese village. You can observe the day to day lifestyle of people. What do they do for living. You can also observe the unique culture and tradition of people. Homestay programs—which is available in most of the treks, helps a lot in understanding lifestyle of people.
Local Food
The widely taken food in Nepal is rice and roti with daal and vegetables and many local veg and non-veg dishes. Moreover different villages have something unique variety of dishes to offer. So, do not limit yourself to the western food during your trek. Delicious Nepali dishes are there in your way. Grab it!
Homestay
In lots of the trek in Nepal there are homestay programs in which you eat and stay in the house of local people during your trek. This type of programs helps you to have the opportunity to experience the new lifestyle, new types of dishes and moreover you can observe the socio economic and cultural aspect of Nepalese society.
Biodiversity— Plants
Nepal has a unique biodiversity unforgettable for every nature lovers. Magnificent landscapes and the juniper and rhododendron forest on the way make your trek more valuable. Different species of trees as you ascend in the dense forest can be one hell of an experience. If you are interested in botany Nepalese forest consist of a lot of rare medicinal herbs which you may encounter during your trek.
Biodiversity—Animals
As Nepal is Himalayan country rich in biodiversity, lots of the rare Himalayan animals can be encountered during your trek. Do not expect that level of biodiversity in animals in short treks. But in the long and rarer type of trek you may encounter with the various Musk deer, Blue sheep, and Red panda and if you are lucky enough you may also encounter the tracks of snow leopard on your way.
Paragliding
If you are searching for more adventure than paragliding can be the best option. You can trek all the way to the top and glide down through paragliding. This can give you a new experience and lot easier than walking all the way down. But the facility is not available everywhere. It is available in Godhawari and some hills of Kathmandu valley as well as Sarangkot and some hills of Pokhara valley.
Festivals and Events/Ceremonies
Nepalese have a lot of festivals which differ according to the ethnicity and society. Generally Nepalese culture and festivals have certain level of uniqueness in it which you cannot find anywhere else. The various ceremonies like marriage are also very unique and different. So you might as well experience some level of uniqueness from our festival and ceremonies. For this you can consult your guide about it or do some research man!
How to prepare for trek in Nepal?
Trekking is all about enjoying and refreshment. So, there is no hard and fast rule for the list of preparations you need to do while trekking. But some level of physical and mental preparations is needed. You are about to walk on the steep hills, snowy areas, high altitudes so you need to be mentally prepared as well as some level of physical preparations are needed. So, continual physical exercise and aerobics can aid a lot. In addition to this the proper shoes and clothes should be taken according to the duration and type of your trek. Most importantly make sure the books you take during the trek is not completely new. As the new boots may cause blisters which may ruin your trek.Some treks have fluctuation in the day and night temperature so you have to take your clothes accordingly. And remember taking more of your accessories may become heavy cause you difficulty during your trek.
Altitude Sickness Information
The major problem that the trekkers face in the high altitude treks is altitude sickness. It is sue to the deficiency of oxygen in your body due to the thinness in air due to the high altitude .The symptoms include Headache, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue, dizziness, which may lead to blurred vision, severe headache and constant vomiting. Be aware of the symptoms and immediately after the symptoms is seen stop your ascend and contact to the trained medical personnel and take the required medicines. But some of the preventive measures can be performed beforehand. Drinking water frequently, ascending slowly, Proper sleep, warm clothing during the trek can be the preventive measures for the altitude sickness problem.
Nepal Activities Other Than Trekking
Nepal is trekkers paradise and the home to the world’s 8 eight thousander Himalayan peaks including Mount Everest standing at 8848m from sea level. This small Himalayan landlocked country sandwiched between two giant nations China (Tibet) and India, offers much for the travelers who want to spend their holidays exploring culture, monuments, wildlife, rivers, lakes, remote villages, valleys, green lush jungles and mountains. Most of the travelers visiting Nepal go for either trekking or mountain climbing but Nepal is the heaven not only for trekkers but also non-trekker. There are many other things that gives you adventure of lifetime or peace to your eyes visiting the sightseeing places like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Nagarkot, Pokhara, Lumbini, Daman, Chitwan, Bandipur and Gorkha.
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nagarkot, Chitwan and Lumbini are the most visited places for historical and cultural sightseeing, wildlife safari, sunrise and sunset, pilgrimage tours and soft adventure holidays.
Historical, Cultural and Natural Sightseeing
Kathmandu is the hub for tourism in Nepal as it owns the one and only international airport named as Tribhuvan International Airport and offering all the services of international quality in the valley, tourist can roam around 2-3 days in and around it. Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan Temple are the popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites cultural sightseeing. These monuments resemble the year’s long history and evidences of old palaces, temples and monasteries. You can even witness the local cultural events, festival, road show and street festival during your visit in these places. Visit and meet with the local ethnic Newar community, their culture, taste the Newari cuisine and feast in and around Kathmandu valley.
Witness the Sunrise and Sunset Views
Nepal is the mountainous country and apart from the high elevation mountains, it consists of small hilltops from where you can witness the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, glimpses of remote villages, vegetation, valleys, lakes, rivers and jungles. Nagarkot, Sarangkot, Antu Danda, Bandipur, Daman and tansen are the best places for sunrise and sunset views in Nepal. If you are interested in short hiking, these places are the best option for you.
Everest Mountain Flight
If you not interested in Mountain climbing or trekking but want to explore the mighty Himalayas, you can go 1 hour mountain flight from Tribhuvan International airport to the Himalayas. During this hour, you can touch the pristine Himalayas with the naked eyes, take photographs and videos.
Jungle Safari and Bird Watching
Nepal is rich in flora and fauna and popular destination for jungle safari in the world as it is the home to some of the endangered animals like one horned rhinoceros, royal bengal tiger, gharial crocodile and many other. Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park and Koshi Tappu Wildlife reserve are some popular wildlife conservation area for wildlife safari and bird watching in Nepal.
Bungee Jumping
Imagine about the adventure free falling from a bridge over a 160m high tropical gorge, its Nepalese style bungee jumping. Bungee jumping in Nepal probably the most adventurous activity and popular for those who want to make an thrilling experience. Nepal boasts the second highest bungee jumping site in the world. The bungee jumping sites are Kathmandu (The Last Resort) and Pokhara (High Ground Nepal).
Paragliding
Want to fly like a bird, do you think it is possible. Yes, it is possible in Nepal with the paragliding over the cities, valleys, mountains and jungles. Paragliding is truly a wonderful, exciting and fulfilling experience for discovering the natural sceneries. It is getting popular as the major adventure activity in Nepal. This great activity, you can do from Sarangkot, Pokhara.
River Rafting
Nepal has several ragging rivers best for white water river rafting that originates from Himalayan glacier. Among the rivers, Trishuli and Bhotekoshi are the most popular rivers for rafting in Nepal. Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for doing rafting in Nepal.
Zip Flyer
Located in pokhara, Zip flyer is the new adventure sport promoted by High Ground Adventure in Nepal. It is the tallest zip line in the world with an inclination of 56 degree, total length of 1.8km and vertical height of 600meters. Along with the beautiful natural scenery of Pokhara city, this adventure activity offers the panoramic mountain views of Mount Annapurna and Fishtail ranges. It is the best option for mountain, rivers, lakes and villages views with the 100 mph speed down. You can take photos and videos along with the zip flyer packages cost.
Everest Skydiving
Mount Everest is the highest peak of the world and flyer over this majestic mountain is the thrilling experience that you have never thought about. But it is possible in Nepal with the name Everest skydiving. By the name itself, it is clear that this the ultimate adventure sports just fly over the Mount Everest like a bird. During the Everest skydiving, you will jump off the plane and take a lunge into the heart of picturesque into the Khumbu region.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is the outdoor sports in Nepal that involves climbing up on a rock to have a climbing test, endurance, agility and balance. Rock climbing can be done from Nagarjun Forest, Namche Bazaar, Nagarkot and Hattiban in Nepal.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is the most popular adventure activity in Nepal that involves pedaling to Mountain road on the single track.
News and Updates 2020
Maurice Herzog Trail Came into Operation
A new trekking route, named as Maurice Herzog Trail has been brought into operation targeting the Visit Nepal 2020.
The trekking trail is named after the French citizen Maurice who was the first mountaineer to climb Mt. Annapurna 70 years ago.
He along with his team did Annapurna expedition in 1950 for the first time.
The Maurice Herzog trekking route starts from Annapurna Rural municipality – 4 Narchyang and reach to the base camp of Mt. Annapurna.
Threat of Corona Virus in Nepal
The corona virus has drawn the attention of the people of world today. It affected the tourism industry throughout the world and in Nepal also. With the starting of Visit Nepal 2020, a global campaign of Nepal to attract the 20 million tourists to Himalayas, we are hearing the news of corona virus getting viral throughout the world.
The corona virus was first detected in Wuhan state of China and spreading worldwide through victims. About 349 people died in mainland China and the number might be increasing. As being the neighbor country to china, Nepal is stepping to prevent the spread of the disease, no negative results till date.
If you are planning for Nepal holidays, do not cancel your trip. You need not to worry about this disease as Nepal is completely safe to visit. For more to know about Corona virus, visit this blog.
Nepal Border to Border Through Hike New Trekking Route in Nepal
A New trekking route has been prepared connecting the neighboring countries China and India through hiking.
The trekking route will cover the lower part of Nepal connecting khunuwa pass in India to Kerung pass in China.
This trekking route was searched by the vetran tourism entrepreneur and chairman of Earthbound Expeditions, Rajan Simkhada including this team American hiker Mike Overster, biker Chetan Rai and Kazi Sherpa.
Nepal Border to Border Thru Hike covers the 440 km long trekking route following from Khunuwa at India border, Kapilvastu Taulihawa, Ramapithecus Park, Palpa Tansen, Aryabhanjyang, Keladighat, Ghiring, Rising to Tanahun Bandipur, Gorkha, Dhading, Nuwakot, Rasuwa to Kerung pass in China.
The hiking route will be completed in about 20 days. The trekking route will focus the local rural villages, hills and mountains.
Conclusion/Final words
There are other many trekking routes in Nepal which you can’t miss while you are in Nepal. These are short listed trips that receive high number of visitors yearly. We may have missed some popular trekking routes here in these lists.
Please comment your views on the listed trips and suggest us your experience here on the comment box. We will cover your suggestions in our next blog. Thank you for reading Top 10 Best Treks in Nepal blog article.
- Treksbooking.com Team
This is great! My fiance is a big fan of trekking and he would love to visit any one of these!
Thank You Norafquin. Please contact us if you need help planning a trek in Nepal.
All of these treks sound incredible. The scenery must be out of this world. I suffer terribly with altitude sickness – even at relatively ‘low’ altitudes, so I don’t think it is something I’d be able to do unfortunately
EBC would be absolutely amazing to do one day! Definitely a bucketlist adventure!
Thank you Heather, adding a comment. Yeah, Everest Base Camp trek is one of the world’s most fascinating trek in Nepal. EBC trek is the most popular and top treks in Nepal. If you have any plans to visit EBC, please drop your inquiry to us.
Very informative post. Even more so for adventure junkies like me. Seeing all these pics make me want to go there right now!
[…] the hailstones, thunderstorms and windy days can occur. Trekking accommodations in all parts of the trekking trail will be open during the month, somewhere the tea houses may be […]