What is more appealing is the existence of centuries-old heritage, unique culture and the welcoming people who go above and beyond to provide the guests with a compelling experience. So, here are some must-visit trekking destinations throughout the country:
Known for colossal mountain ranges and landscapes, Nepal is quite famous for captivating trek routes, especially in the Northern region of the country. From spiritual travelers to hiking enthusiasts, the topography of this place offers enriching experiences to people all around the globe.
Trekking in Nepal has evolved into a substantial industry, attracting people from all around the globe to make this nation their destination and every year thousands of visitors find themselves scaling the mesmerizing routes and enjoying the beauty and diversity of nature. What is more appealing is the existence of centuries-old heritage, unique culture and the welcoming people who go above and beyond to provide the guests with a compelling experience.
So, here are some must-visit trekking destinations throughout the country:
Everest Base Camp Trek
En route to the world’s tallest mountain, the Everest Base Camp is indeed the most famous and alluring trekking destination in Nepal. It all starts with a flight from the capital to Lukla and what follows is 5600 meters of elevation holding awe-inspiring scenes of the antique monastery and enticing Sherpa culture along the way.
This route lets you retrace the footsteps of Late Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Passing through “Sagarmatha National Park”, this is the perfect place to get drawn into nature and savor the breath-taking views of other mountain ranges like “Nuptse” and “Lhotse” simultaneously. The local tea-houses along the way are there to help you quench your thirst and alleviate tiredness to some extent.
• Best Time to Visit – October and November
• Highlights – Sherpa Culture, monasteries, and amazing views
• Average Time Spent – 14 days
• Trekking Permits – Not required
Annapurna Base Camp
If there is something that enhances the appeal of Pokhara, it is the view of this majestic mountain “Annapurna” which roughly translates to “Goddess of Plenty”. Through the alpine forest and into the barren land, you will go past the happy villages of “Gurung” and “Magar”, the locals of these areas.
The lush rhododendron and the elegant mountainscapes are the highlights of this area. This route lets you have a clear insight into the local tradition, various mountain ranges. The city of Pokhara on your way back is known as the capital for adventure sports and other prospects for an adrenaline rush.
• Best Time to Visit – March to May, October to November
• Highlights – Sunrise, diverse landscapes and Tourist hub Pokhara
• Average Time Spent – 8 to 14 days
• Trekking Permits – Not required
Langtang Valley Trek
Lying in the North towards the border of Nepal and Tibet, Langtang Valley is an 8-hour drive away from the capital. Apart from the prepossessing panoramic scenes and mountain ranges, this place is also famous for “Gosaikunda”, an exotic freshwater lake.
Towering at 3870-metre-high, Langtang also boasts its popular cheese factory as well as “Himalayan National Park” along the way. This is the best option for the adventure seeker and the complementary part is the hint of distinctive Tibetan Tradition found en route.
• Best Time to Visit – March till May, October till November
• Highlights – Gosaikunda Lake, Yak Farming and Langtang National Park
• Average Time Spent – 10 days
• Trekking Permits – Required
Upper Mustang Trek
The most unique trekking trail in Nepal, the Upper Mustang Trek is also the passage between Nepal and Tibet which is renowned for its “Salt Caravan” route from back in the day. What makes this place so distinctive yet so famous is the tree-less landscapes that are dry and windy throughout the year. Lying in the shadow of Annapurna, this route offers a captivating view of other mountain ranges like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna itself.
Once a separate kingdom, this place is one of the few places that has immensely preserved the ancient Tibetan-Buddhist culture, duly be being isolated from other places. The journey starts from Jomsom and what lies ahead is the mesmerizing scene of mountain ranges, prayers flag in the monasteries and abundant barely fields spread throughout the 3800-meter height.
• Best Time to Visit – March till May, October till November
• Highlights – Barren land, World’s oldest monasteries and Tibetan lifestyle
• Averaged Time Spent – 14 Days
• Trekking Permits – Required
Ghandruk Trek
This course is one of the popular gets way to Annapurna Base Camp. Ascending at 2000 meters high, the feasibility of viewing the early sunrise is what makes this circuit more appealing compared to others.
It is a typical village inhabiting the Local “Gurungs”. With mountain museums and tea houses along the way, tourists are often found getting submerged into the authenticity this place has to offer. It is a relatively easier trekking and hiking route and most popular among casual enthusiasts.
• Best Time to Visit – September till May
• Highlights – Museums, Short Trek and Close Mountain Views
• Average Days Spent – 5
• Trekking Permits – Not required
Rara Lake Trek
Often called the “Queens of Lake”, Rara is the biggest lake in Nepal. The sparking blue gem is what makes this place stand out and this serene gateway located in the remote district of Mugu and Jumla.
Covering 10sq km and reportedly 167m deep, the surrounding area is the habitation of over 200 species of birds including “Danfe” the national bird. Although it isn’t too popular with the tourist because of its remote location but the effort to get here will certainly be worth it. Lying in the shadow of Annapurna, the journey takes you through breath-taking views of mountain ranges and vast pine forests.
• Best Time to Visit – March till December
• Highlights – Varieties of bird, Himalayan Leopards, and Mixed ethnicities
• Average Days Spent – 10 days
• Trekking Permits – Required
Manaslu Circuit Trek
This trail is situated within the Manaslu Mountain range, the eighth highest peak in the world. The special attribute of this circuit is the numerous suspension bridges along with the ancient wooden planks.
Also known as “Mountain of Spirits” this range is a common hub for spiritual believers and enlightenment seekers. The dominant trait of this route is the valley glaciers and the rapid but serene white water of the “Budhi Gandaki River”. The Manaslu Conservation area also gives an insight into the sub-tropical Himalayan scales as well as the Tibetan floras.
• Best Time to Visit – March till May, October till November
• Highlights – Glaciers, Towering Mountain Ranges and National Conservation Reserve
• Average Days Spent – 15 days
• Permit Required – Yes
Kanchenjunga Trek
The third highest peak in the world located in the Eastern settlements of Nepal is truly a picturesque and vibrant destination. With part of it located in Tibet and Sikkim of India, the trial hosts a mixed and distinctive cultural ethnicity up the road.
The Kanchenjunga is one of the contributors to the “Ganges”, a holy river worshipped by Hindus. The peak of this circuit offers a prominent view of the glaciers and eastern vegetation of Nepal. Home to the “Rai” and “Limbus”, this place is not short of history, beauty and cheerful people throughout the journey.
• Best Time to Visit – March till May, October till November
• Highlights – Distinctive Eastern Vegetation, Mesmerizing peaks, and Wildlife
• Average Days Spent – 20 days
• Permits Required – Yes
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
This is a typical Himalayas trek in the Annapurna Region. The trial commences from “Nayapul”, within an hour drive from Pokhara. Also known as “Annapurna Panoramic Trek”, the journey invigorates through the lush rhododendron forest and ethnic villages of the region.
The appealing view of the sunrise makes this place immensely popular among photographers and the entire route is rather easy to ascend. This place will let you indulge in the local tradition and get a close glimpse of the vast Annapurna Region. Although it is a bit crowded with tourist the landscapes and vibrant villages make this a most sought-after trekking destination within the country.
• Best Time to Visit – March till May, October till November
• Highlights – Diverse vegetation and wildlife, Ancient salt trade routes
• Average Days Spent – 5 days
• Permits Required – Yes
Chisapani – Nagarkot Trek
Offering a scenic view throughout the trial, the Chispani to Nagarkot Trek is one of its kind. Unlike the mountainous region enlisted above, this route is located towards the North of the Capital. The journey commences from “Sundarijal”, a famous tourist hub located within a 45-minute drive from Kathmandu.
Occupied by tourists all around the year, this trial is equally popular amongst the locals who seek a short getaway from the busy city life. The humid and tranquil atmosphere is something that bolsters the aura of this place.
• Best Time to Visit – All around the year
• Highlights – Alluring waterfalls and rivers, Sunrise View
• Average Time Spent – 3 days
• Permits – Required
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