Three Great Short Treks In Nepal

Nepal’s Best Short Treks

Mads Mathiasen, a seasoned travel expert, possesses a particular passion for short treks. These meticulously crafted adventures offer visitors an invaluable opportunity to escape the bustling cities and immerse themselves in the authentic heart of Nepal. Short treks provide a gateway to experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the country’s diverse landscapes and the genuine warmth and hospitality of its people. Mads has curated a selection of his all-time favorite short treks, each offering a unique and unforgettable flavor of Nepal.

Dhorpatan Trek: Get Off the Beaten Path (7-14 Days)

The Dhorpatan Trek leads you to a remote and stunning high-altitude plateau situated in the western region of Nepal. This hidden gem is a destination frequented by only a select few trekkers, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking an authentic and undisturbed experience. Historically, reaching Dhorpatan, the proud home of Nepal’s exclusive hunting reserve, presented a significant logistical challenge. It necessitated either a costly helicopter ride or an arduous three- to four-day trek. However, thanks to the extensive network of new roads that have been constructed throughout Nepal in recent years, accessing Dhorpatan has become significantly easier. It is now achievable with a long day’s drive in a sturdy four-wheel-drive vehicle originating from Pokhara.

Despite the improved accessibility, Dhorpatan remains a destination ideally suited for the adventurous and intrepid trekker. The statistics speak volumes: in 2013, only a mere 88 foreign visitors ventured into this region. Mads assures us that the numbers have not increased dramatically since then, underscoring the area’s unspoiled and pristine nature. This limited exposure translates into a region where little has been altered by mass tourism. The local Magar people, the indigenous inhabitants of the area, are genuinely intrigued by outsiders and extend a warm welcome to visitors, often inviting them into their homes. Small trekking groups can anticipate spending cherished moments sipping traditional tea and sharing a hearty meal within the cozy confines of a local kitchen. However, due to the limited availability of in-home accommodations, larger groups should be prepared to embrace the experience of camping along the scenic trails.

Embarking on a week-long trek through Dhorpatan allows you to fully immerse yourself in the unspoiled landscape, savoring the breathtaking vistas of Dhaulagiri, a majestic mountain whose name translates to “White Mountain.” Furthermore, this trek presents a unique opportunity to encounter rare and elusive wildlife, including the magnificent snow leopard and the elusive forest leopard, creatures that roam freely in this protected area. The Dhorpatan trek is an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

After approximately seven or eight days of trekking through the stunning landscapes of Dhorpatan, you will find yourself only a few hours’ drive away from the vibrant city of Pokhara. This trek is not considered extreme, making it accessible to first-time trekkers who are in reasonably good physical condition and possess a spirit of adventure. It offers a rare glimpse into parts of Nepal that few other foreign visitors have had the privilege to witness. The Dhorpatan Trek is a truly rewarding experience for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

The Kalinchowk Temple Trek, conveniently accessible from Kathmandu, can be completed in as little as four days, yet it offers an abundance of incredible sights and cultural experiences. Just a short half-day’s drive from the bustling metropolis of Kathmandu lies this wilderness trek, which meanders along a high ridgeline that elegantly weaves in and out of verdant forests. During the day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views stretching westward towards the majestic Annapurna range of the Himalayan Mountains. As night descends, you’ll find yourself sleeping comfortably in a tent, thoughtfully carried and expertly set up for you by dedicated support staff, who will also prepare your evening meal. This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

As you traverse the trail, keep a watchful eye out for elusive leopards and the shy Himalayan Black bear, creatures that roam these forests. Your ultimate destination is the renowned Kalinchowk Bhagwati temple, a revered Hindu shrine. This temple holds immense significance for locals, who undertake pilgrimages to this sacred site. It is highly probable that you won’t encounter another soul along the trail until you reach the temple, unless you happen to trek during the summer months. During this period, Nepali villagers move their cattle to their summer settlements, where the herds graze on the lush pastures during the monsoon season. The Kalinchowk Temple Trek is a unique opportunity to experience both the natural beauty and the spiritual essence of Nepal.

Once you’ve had the opportunity to explore the temple and soak in its spiritual atmosphere, the journey from there is literally all downhill. You’ll embark on a descent towards the town of Charikot, where you can conclude your trek in style. Consider indulging in a night or two at the remarkable Charikot Panorama Resort, a haven of comfort and relaxation that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Kalinchowk Temple Trek is an experience that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation in a truly unforgettable way.

It’s almost impossible to contemplate Nepal without immediately conjuring up images of the world’s grandest and most iconic mountain: Everest. The Solu Trek is specifically designed for visitors who may not have the desire to climb Everest itself but are eager to witness its majestic presence from the ground, rather than merely catching a glimpse from an airplane window. This trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the grandeur of Everest without undertaking a challenging climb.

Furthermore, the Solu Trek stands out as the premier pathway to gain an intimate understanding of Sherpa culture. Enhanced transportation options in the area, including a paved runway in Phaplu and a newly constructed road, have significantly simplified the logistics of undertaking treks of varying durations, even those as short as four days. This improved accessibility allows visitors to tailor their experience to their specific time constraints and preferences.

The Solu region lies along the traditional Everest trail originating from Jiri, which means that trekkers can take advantage of comfortable tea houses that provide accommodation and sustenance along the way. With the majority of Everest climbers now opting for the trek from Lukla instead, Solu has experienced a decline in tourist traffic, allowing Sherpa culture and villages to remain largely untouched and authentic. As you trek through this region, you can anticipate encountering ancient monasteries and enjoying breathtaking vistas of Everest from a lower elevation, meaning you don’t need to be in peak physical condition to fully appreciate this trek. The Solu Trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and accessibility, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of travelers.