Nepal isn't just home to Mount Everest; it's the heartbeat of the Himalayas. A land of towering peaks, ancient trails, and time-honored traditions, Nepal welcomes trekkers from around the world to explore its spiritual mountains, warm villages, and mind-blowing landscapes. Whether you're a first-timer dreaming of the Annapurna views or a seasoned adventurer ready for the remote wilderness of Dolpo, 2025/26 is the perfect year to step into Nepal's trails. With new infrastructure, smoother routes, and sustainable trekking initiatives, there's never been a better time to go.
Table of Contents
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek
- Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Poon Hill Panorama Trek
- Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Trek
- Mardi Himal Trek
- Upper Mustang Trek
- Tsum Valley Trek
- Everest Three High Passes Trek
- Khopra Ridge Trek
- Makalu Base Camp Trek
- Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek
- Pikey Peak Trek
1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC)
A classic for a reason. The Annapurna Base Camp trek combines terraced farmlands, Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, and up-close views of Annapurna I (8,091m). The final push into the amphitheater-like base camp is nothing short of magical. Perfect for moderate trekkers seeking high rewards without extreme altitude.
Duration: 7–12 days
Max Altitude: 4,130m
Best For: First-timers who want high-altitude beauty with manageable challenge
2. Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek
If you want Everest views without the crowd, Gokyo is your answer. This quieter Everest trail takes you past shimmering glacial lakes, traditional Sherpa villages, and the majestic Gokyo Ri viewpoint, offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.
Duration: 12–14 days
Max Altitude: 5,357m
Best For: Nature lovers seeking solitude, lakes, and Everest without the EBC crowd
3. Nar Phu Valley Trek
A raw and untouched journey into a restricted region of Annapurna. Nar Phu is characterized by remote Tibetan villages, ancient monasteries, and dramatic mountain landscapes that seem frozen in time. You'll cross high Kang La Pass and walk trails few have tread.
Duration: 10–15 days
Max Altitude: 5,320m
Best For: Cultural adventurers craving isolation and authentic Himalayan life
4. Manaslu Circuit Trek
Often referred to as the "new Annapurna," the Manaslu trek offers wild, remote, and culturally rich landscapes. Circumnavigating the eighth-highest peak in the world, you'll cross suspension bridges, pass through Tibetan-influenced villages, and cross the Larkya La Pass (5,160m).
Duration: 14–18 days
Best For: Those looking for EBC-level beauty but fewer crowds and more cultural immersion
5. Poon Hill Panorama Trek
Short on time but want Himalayan magic? The Poon Hill trek is perfect. Ideal for families and beginner trekkers, it rewards you with one of the best sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Duration: 4–6 days
Max Altitude: 3,210m
Best For: Beginners, families, and anyone looking for a short Himalayan fix
6. Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Trek
This combined trek gives you both the tranquil Langtang Valley and the sacred lakes of Gosaikunda. Along the way, you'll discover Tamang heritage, alpine forests, yak pastures, and spiritual charm that touches your soul.
Duration: 10–13 days
Max Altitude: 4,610m (Gosaikunda)
Best For: Trekkers seeking peace, spirituality, and fewer crowds
7. Mardi Himal Trek
Hidden in the shadows of Machhapuchhre, this short and steep trek climbs through rhododendron forests and open ridges to reveal jaw-dropping views. It's becoming a popular alternative to ABC and is still relatively uncrowded.
Duration: 5–8 days
Best For: Hikers wanting a quieter trail with dramatic alpine scenery
8. Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang is not just a trek; it's a time travel experience. Enter the rain-shadow kingdom of Lo, a Tibetan-influenced region of red cliffs, sky caves, and walled villages. With a restricted area permit, it's an exclusive journey few get to experience.
Duration: 10–14 days
Max Altitude: 3,800m
Best For: Explorers intrigued by culture, history, and desert-like landscapes
9. Tsum Valley Trek
Known as the "Hidden Valley of Happiness," the Tsum Valley is a remote, sacred, and stunning destination. You'll pass ancient Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, and welcoming villages untouched by modernization.
Duration: 14–18 days
Best For: Spiritual seekers and trekkers craving authenticity and isolation
10. Everest Three High Passes Trek
The ultimate Everest challenge. This trek includes EBC plus three dramatic passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. It's intense but gratifying for seasoned trekkers.
Duration: 18–21 days
Max Altitude: 5,535m
Best For: Experienced trekkers seeking thrills, solitude, and complete Everest immersion
11. Khopra Ridge Trek
A hidden gem in the Annapurna region. This newly popular trail offers panoramic mountain views without the crowds. You can even detour to the sacred Khayer Lake.
Duration: 7–9 days
Best For: Off-the-beaten-path hikers looking for scenic ridges and authentic villages
12. Makalu Base Camp Trek
Remote, raw, and wild. Makalu is Nepal's fifth-highest mountain and one of the least-visited base camps. It's an arduous trek that passes through Barun Valley's rainforest, waterfalls, and finally to arctic-like alpine terrain.
Duration: 18–22 days
Max Altitude: 5,000m+
Best For: Wilderness trekkers who want true isolation
13. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
One of the most challenging treks in Nepal, it circles Dhaulagiri (8,167m) with high passes, glaciers, and overnight stays at base camp. Wild, strenuous, and remote, this one's for serious trekkers.
Duration: 18–20 days
Best For: High-altitude pros ready for technical terrain and camping treks
14. Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek
Welcome to the trails less traveled. Kanchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world, and its remote trek is a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.
Duration: 20–25 days
Best For: Hardcore trekkers wanting remote alpine wilderness
15. Pikey Peak Trek
A short Everest region trek with incredible views of Everest, Makalu, and Numbur Himal. This is the trek that Sir Edmund Hillary himself preferred for the best views of Everest.
Duration: 5–7 days
Best For: Short Everest-region trek with amazing sunrise views
Why Trek with Hiking Nepal?
At Hiking Nepal, we don't just take you to the mountains—we guide you through them with care, safety, and a deep respect for the land. Our local guides are born in these hills. Our trips are flexible, budget-friendly, and customizable. Whether you want a solo experience, a private group trek, or to join others, we've got a trail just for you.
2025 Booking Benefits:
- Early Bird Discounts
- Free rental gear
- Expert itinerary consultation
FAQs
Which is the best trek for beginners?
Poon Hill or Mardi Himal are great for beginners—short, scenic, and not too high.
What's the best time to trek in Nepal?
March to May and September to November offer the clearest skies and best weather.
Do I need a guide?
For most treks, yes. Restricted areas, such as Upper Mustang or Manaslu, require a licensed guide and special permits.
Can I do these treks solo?
Some hikes, such as ABC or Langtang, can be done solo, but we recommend hiring a guide for safety and local insight.
