When you think of trekking in Nepal, you probably jump to the mighty Everest or Annapurna Circuits, spanning weeks. But did you know Nepal offers dozens of short treks—ranging from 2 to 10 days—that still pack the drama, beauty, and adventure of the longer trails?
Whether you’re on a tight schedule, new to trekking, or just looking for a quick escape into the Himalayas, Nepal’s short treks offer stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and diverse terrain in a fraction of the time.
From panoramic sunrise points to hidden valleys and remote villages, here are Nepal's 30 best short treks for 2025.
Top Short Treks in Nepal (Sorted by Region)
1. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- Duration: 4–5 days
- Max Altitude: 3,210m
- Start/End: Nayapul
- Highlights: Sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, rhododendron forests, stone staircases at Ulleri.
- Reasons you should consider: One of the most scenic and beginner-friendly treks.
2. Mardi Himal Trek
- Duration: 5–7 days
- Max Altitude: 4,500m
- Start/End: Kande
- Highlights: Machhapuchhre views, alpine ridges, peaceful off-beat trail.
- Reasons you should consider: Feels like a secret trek with massive mountain views.
3. Dhampus Village Trek
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Max Altitude: 1,650m
- Start/End: Phedi
- Highlights: Gurung village life, Annapurna range views.
- Reasons you should consider: Short and scenic with cultural interaction.
4. Australian Camp Trek
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Max Altitude: 2,060m
- Start/End: Kande
- Highlights: Wide open meadows, peaceful sunrise point.
- Reasons you should consider: Great for families and beginners.
5. Ghandruk Trek
- Duration: 3–4 days
- Max Altitude: 2,012m
- Start/End: Nayapul
- Highlights: Traditional Gurung village, Annapurna views.
- Reasons you should consider: Rich culture, perfect short cultural hike.
6. Panchase Trek
- Duration: 3–5 days
- Max Altitude: 2,500m
- Start/End: Pumdi Bhumdi
- Highlights: Sacred Panchase Hill, less-trekked route.
- Reasons you should consider: Spiritual forests and panoramic views.
7. Mohare Danda Trek
- Duration: 5–6 days
- Max Altitude: 3,300m
- Start/End: Beni
- Highlights: Community lodges, eco-tourism, fewer crowds.
- Reasons you should consider: Great alternative to Poon Hill with a local experience.
8. Royal Trek
- Duration: 3–4 days
- Max Altitude: 1,730m
- Start/End: Kalikasthan
- Highlights: Named after Prince Charles’ trek, cultural villages.
- Reasons you should consider: Less elevation, royal history.
9. Sikles Trek
- Duration: 5–6 days
- Max Altitude: 2,000m
- Start/End: Pokhara
- Highlights: Untouched Gurung villages, views of Lamjung Himal.
- Reasons you should consider: Rarely explored but rewarding.
10. Pikey Peak Trek
- Duration: 6–8 days
- Max Altitude: 4,065m
- Start/End: Dhap
- Highlights: Everest views, Sherpa villages, monasteries.
- Reasons you should consider: Great Everest view without the crowd.
11. Chisapani Nagarkot Trek
- Duration: 3–4 days
- Max Altitude: 2,175m
- Start/End: Sundarijal
- Highlights: Kathmandu Valley rim, sunrise at Nagarkot.
- Reasons you should consider: Quick escape close to Kathmandu.
12. Helambu Trek
- Duration: 5–6 days
- Max Altitude: 3,650m
- Start/End: Sundarijal
- Highlights: Tamang villages, monasteries, rhododendron forests.
- Reasons you should consider: Peaceful and culturally rich.
13. Langtang Valley Short Trek
- Duration: 6–7 days
- Max Altitude: 3,800m (Kyanjin Gompa)
- Start/End: Syabrubesi
- Highlights: Tamang culture, alpine meadows.
- Reasons you should consider: Less commercial but visually stunning.
14. Kalinchowk Trek
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Max Altitude: 3,800m
- Start/End: Charikot
- Highlights: Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, snow-covered trails.
- Reasons you should consider: One of the best winter treks.
15. Balthali Village Trek
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Max Altitude: 1,730m
- Start/End: Panauti
- Highlights: Ancient temples, lush valleys.
- Reasons you should consider: Tranquil is a culturally immersive trek near Kathmandu.
Remaining Notable Short Treks
Here's a rapid-fire list of more incredible short treks worth exploring:
- Thulo Syabru Trek
- Tatopani Hot Spring Trek
- Namobuddha Trek
- Shivapuri Nature Trek
- Kori Trek (Lamjung)
- Khopra Ridge Trek (Shortened Version)
- Tamang Heritage Trail (Mini Route)
- Rupina La Short Trek
- Hattiban Monastery Trek
- Champadevi Hike
- Phulchowki Hike
- Daman Hill Trek
- Tindhare Waterfall Hike
- Chumling Day Trek
- Sundarijal–Shivapuri Circuit Trek
Best Seasons for Short Treks in Nepal
The best time for short treks in Nepal typically falls in two main trekking seasons: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months bring the clearest skies, comfortable temperatures, and the most reliable trail conditions—ideal for capturing stunning views without worrying about rain or snowfall. In spring, rhododendron forests come alive with blooming colors, making treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mohare Danda feel extra magical. Autumn offers crystal-clear panoramas of the Himalayas, from Everest to Annapurna, and the mild weather makes even higher elevation short treks more accessible.
Winter (December to February) is also a surprisingly good time for short treks—especially those at lower elevations like Dhampus, Kalinchowk, or Balthali. Expect chilly mornings, cold nights, fewer crowds, and peaceful trails dusted with snow. Monsoon (June to August), while lush and green, brings heavy rains and slippery paths, so most treks are not recommended unless you go to rain-shadow areas like Mustang or Dolpo.
Planning Tips
Short treks may be brief in days but still demand thoughtful planning for a safe and enjoyable experience. Start by choosing the right trek based on your fitness level, available time, and interests—panoramic mountain views, cultural immersion, or quiet forest trails. Next, the necessary permits, such as the TIMS card and relevant National Park or Conservation Area permits, should be secured, even for treks under 3 days. Teahouses support most treks, so you won’t need to carry tents or food, but it’s smart to pack light layers, a rain jacket, a headlamp, and essentials like snacks, power banks, and reusable water bottles.
If you're trekking solo, stick to popular short routes like Poon Hill or Ghandruk for safety and access. However, hiring a local guide adds cultural value and ensures support during unpredictable trail conditions—especially in less-traveled areas like Sikles or Pikey Peak. Lastly, plan your budget wisely. Short treks cost less, but expenses can add up with transport, permits, and gear. Group treks can help lower costs, while private ones offer flexibility and comfort. Always check the weather forecast, inform someone about your plans, and trek responsibly to respect local communities and nature.
Why Trek with Hiking Nepal?
At Hiking Nepal, we specialize in crafting treks tailored to your time and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a two-day cultural walk or a seven-day ridge trek, we handle logistics, permits, and safety so you can focus on the experience.
✅ Expert Local Guides
✅ Small Groups or Private Trips
✅ Sustainable & Community-Based Tourism
Short on time but big on adventure? Nepal’s short treks prove you don’t need weeks to witness Himalayan magic. These trails are perfect for those who crave nature, culture, and elevation, without the long commitment.
