Nepal is a beautiful country with stunning mountain scenery for trekking in Nepal. Trekking has become especially popular among visitors since it allows you to see the beautiful Himalayas up close and engage yourself in the rich culture and scenery of this hilly country. With remarkable biodiversity ranging from lush rhododendron forests to high-altitude deserts, Nepal offers an unparalleled trekking experience found nowhere else on Earth.
At Royal Vacation, we are experts on trekking in Nepal and want to share our top trekking destinations with you. There are many incredible options for all ability levels, from short and moderate treks to extremely challenging multi-week expeditions into remote regions of the mighty Himalayas.
Everest High Pass Trek
One of the most famous and challenging treks is the Everest High Pass Trek. On this trek, you get to see the mighty Mount Everest, which at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) is the highest mountain on Earth. The traditional Everest Base Camp trek just goes to the base of Everest, but the High Pass version adds three high mountain passes for extra adventure – Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Kongma La Pass.
This trek starts and ends in the mountain village of Lukla, which you fly to from Kathmandu. It takes less than 3 weeks but you need to be very fit and mentally prepared as you’ll be hiking up to 5,368 meters (17,598 feet) at Everest Base Camp. The high passes make it even more challenging, with steep climbs and descents as you cross over the mountains. However, you don’t need prior hiking experience, just fitness and determination.
Around Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake
Another world-renowned trek is the Annapurna Circuit which loops around the entire Annapurna mountain range. What makes this trek so unique is the dramatic changes in scenery every day as you hike through deep valleys, across high passes, along ridges, and into a dry desert-like landscape.
The full Annapurna Circuit typically takes 2-3 weeks. We recommend adding in a side trip to Tilicho Lake which at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) is one of the highest lakes in the world. From Tilicho, you can optionally continue trekking to Jomsom rather than backtrack, but this requires camping gear.
Also Read: Protected Areas in Nepal
The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) which borders the edge of the Tibetan plateau, providing breathtaking views. We’ve designed an itinerary that includes Tilicho Lake at a relaxed pace with proper acclimatization days. At the end, you can fly out from Jomsom which saves about a week of hiking back.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Recently, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has grown in popularity as an alternative to the overcrowded Annapurna Circuit since the new roads were built. This trek circles the eighth highest mountain in the world, the 8,163 meter (26,781 feet) Manaslu peak.
The full Manaslu Circuit takes around 2 weeks but can be extended by adding the sacred Tsum Valley. One unique aspect is that this trek requires taking a guide, unlike other routes where you can hike independently. This is to limit crowds and preserve the culture of the area.
The highest point on this trek is Larkya La Pass at 5,167 meters (16,952 feet), often covered in snow. From the pass, you get unreal views of Manaslu and other Himalayan giants. The trek starts in Arughat and finishes in Besishahar, passing through Nubri Valley along the way where you’ll experience amazing hospitality from the locals.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
For those looking for a shorter, easier trek, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is perfect, especially for families with children. This trek is in the Annapurna region and can be done in just 3-5 days, with the highest point being 3,200 meters (10,500 feet). You’ll stay overnight at lodges around 2,700 meters (8,850 feet).
The highlight is hiking up to Poonhill at sunrise, which gives you a panoramic view of the entire Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Fishtail, Tukuche Peak, and more. Over 16 different snowcapped mountains are visible from this special viewpoint. It’s a relatively easy trek suitable for kids, but still incredibly scenic in the Himalayas.
We can arrange family-friendly guides and porters to make this trek smooth and enjoyable. It’s a taste of trekking in Nepal without the high elevations or extreme difficulty.
Langtang Valley Trek
In the Langtang region just north of Kathmandu, you’ll find the Langtang Valley Trek. Parts of this area were damaged in the 2015 Nepal earthquake, but the popular trails to Kyanjin Gompa village are open and safe with some re-routing.
Rather than staying in the Langtang Valley itself, most trekkers now head straight to Kyanjin Gompa after 2-3 days of hiking. This is a beautiful village with incredible views of the Langtang Range. You can taste the local yak cheese and hike up to the Chirku Ri viewpoint. The scenery is spectacular with glaciers, icefalls, and towering peaks surrounding you.
You may also like: Ultimate Luxury Bucket List Experiences in Nepal
This trek can be extended by adding the sacred lakes of Gosaikunda on a side trip. No camping gear is required as you stay in basic teahouse lodges, but these need to be booked in advance due to limited availability after the earthquake damage. Let us help you plan this stunning trek filled with culture and natural beauty.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
For trekkers searching for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Dhaulagiri Circuit is an incredible choice. This challenging trek circles the 8,167m (26,795 ft) Dhaulagiri massif, the seventh highest mountain in the world.
Compared to other famous treks, the Dhaulagiri Circuit sees far fewer visitors due to its remoteness and rugged land. The full circuit takes around 18-22 days and requires camping gear as there are limited teahouse accommodations.
The highest point is the difficult French Pass at 5,360m (17,585 ft), where you’ll be amazed by the huge peaks of Dhaulagiri I, Tukche Peak, and others in the central Himalayas. The landscapes range from lush rhododendron forests to glacial valleys and high altitude desert.
Only the most passionate and physically fit trekkers should attempt this wilderness circuit. However, those ready to face the Dhaulagiri challenge with guided help would be rewarded with remoteness and spectacular alpine views.
Khopra Ridge Trek
If you’re looking for stunning mountain vistas without extreme high altitudes, the Khopra Ridge Trek is a perfect choice. This “off the beaten path” trek takes you to a attractive ridge below the Annapurna South at a maximum elevation of just 3,660m (12,008 ft).
Beginning near Pokhara, you’ll trek through picturesque ethnic villages, lush rhododendron forests, and have continuous views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri and other Himalayan giants. Yet you’ll never climb above 4,000m where altitude sickness becomes a concern.
The highlight is reaching Khopra Peak, which is stunning and extends the peak with a tiny teahouse settlement and free panoramic views in all directions. Choose a trek to Khayar Ridge for even more breathtaking views.
With its moderate elevation and jaw-dropping scenery, Khopra Ridge is perfect for families, seniors or those wanting to experience trekking in the Himalayas without extreme difficulties. Let us plan your culturally immersive 9-12 day Khopra trek.
Other Trekking Options
These treks are some of the most famous for trekking in Nepal, but barely scratch the surface of the incredible trekking options in Nepal. In total, there are over 30 distinct trekking routes to choose from, each offering a unique perspective on the majestic Himalayas.
Perhaps you’d prefer the remote Kanchenjunga region near the Indian border. Or exploring the wildlife and ethnic culture of the Far West Nepal trails. The Mustang area is like trekking through a medieval Buddhist kingdom. And the Helambu and Ghandruk regions are just a short drive from Kathmandu.
With so many options, every trekker can find their perfect trail matched to their interests, timeframe and ability level. From a few days to a few weeks, tea house trekking or camping, high mountain passes or simple valley hikes, the choices are endless in Nepal.
Guided Trekking Tours
While some expert trekkers may want to plan an independent trek, the majority of visitors prefer a professionally guided and arranged tour package from a trusted local company like Royal Vacation. We customize each itinerary to include private guides, porters, accommodation, transportation and all trekking permits and logistics.
Our guides are all licensed and trained in mountaineering skills, and wilderness first aid and have intimate knowledge of the routes and culture. They’ll make sure your trip is safe, educational, and enchanting from start to finish.
Simply tell us your preferred trek, ability level and group size and we’ll plan every detail for an unforgettable adventure through the Himalayas of Nepal. Our strengths are luxury service, small group sizes and creating unique experiences you couldn’t find anywhere else.
How to Prepare
While trekking in Nepal should be on every nature lover’s bucket list, it’s important to be prepared physically and mentally. The high altitudes make even simple hikes difficult, as there is less oxygen available.
We recommend beginning a cardiovascular exercise regimen of hiking, cycling, or running at least 2-3 months before your trek date. You’ll also want to strengthen your legs and work on stamina. Coming to Nepal in good physical shape is crucial.
Trekking at high altitude also requires a positive mindset and patience. The impacts of altitude sickness, fatigue and extreme conditions test your mental fortitude. Having an open, go-with-the-flow attitude will maximize your enjoyment.
Another tip is to pack light for trekking. You’ll only need lightweight trekking clothes, good boots, basic toiletries and accessories. We provide plenty of porters to carry larger bags, food, tents and gear.
Plan Your Adventure
Hopefully this overview has inspired you to take on the challenge of trekking in Nepal’s incredible Himalayan mountains. From the highest peaks to sacred valleys, every trail offers a unique window into the unforgettable natural and cultural wonders this country is famous for.
At Royal Vacation, our team of trekking specialists is standing by to answer any questions and help craft your ideal Nepal trekking adventure. We’ll ensure you have an amazing, seamless, and safe experience exploring the roof of the world.
Contact us today and let’s start planning your dream Nepal trek! The mountains are calling, we’ll make sure you have the experience of a lifetime.