Nepal is home to some of the most spectacular treks in the world. Ranging from classics like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang to up and coming treks such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Nar Phu Valley Trek, Nepal’s best treks are listed below. If you plan on going trekking in Nepal, read on to decide which trek is best for you.
## The 10 Best Classic Treks in Nepal: An Expanded Guide
This list has been carefully updated as of **May 2018** to provide you with the most accurate and current information, especially concerning trail conditions and accessibility. A significant update is the welcome return of the Langtang Trek, which has been joyfully re-opened to trekkers. The classic treks featured here typically require a commitment of 2 to 3 weeks to fully experience. Each of these Himalayan journeys promises not only breathtaking and unforgettable scenery, but also unparalleled opportunities for intimate encounters with the vibrant and resilient local cultures that call the Himalaya home. The following overview is designed to assist you in determining which trek best aligns with your personal preferences, fitness level, and available time, ensuring that your adventure is as rewarding as possible.
Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home?
## #1 Everest Three Passes Trek
Imagine standing atop a Himalayan pass, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs, as you gaze upon the majestic Mount Everest. This is the promise of the Everest Three Passes Trek, a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience for seasoned trekkers.
The Three Passes Trek is an exceptional undertaking, designed for those with the time and stamina to dedicate approximately 3 weeks to exploring the heart of the Everest Region. This trek takes you across not one, not two, but three high-altitude passes, each soaring above 5,000 meters. This is undoubtedly the most comprehensive way to truly immerse yourself in the splendor of the Everest Region. The route incorporates sections of the well-known Everest Base Camp Trek, but it elevates the experience by offering even more awe-inspiring and panoramic views of the colossal peaks that dominate the Himalayan skyline. As you traverse the Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La passes, you’ll be treated to vistas that are simply unmatched. The Three Passes Trek also provides the flexibility to be combined with other fascinating variations of the Everest Base Camp Trek, allowing for a truly personalized adventure.
**Getting to the trailhead:** Your journey begins with an exhilarating 30-minute flight from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the mountain airstrip of Lukla.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** Allow at least 18 days to fully appreciate the wonders of this trek and acclimatize properly to the high altitude.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The highest point you’ll reach is the Kongma La pass, standing tall at an impressive 5,535 meters (18,159 feet).
* **Start/Finish:** Your adventure begins and concludes in the vibrant town of Lukla, the gateway to the Everest Region.
* **Difficulty:** This trek is classified as challenging, demanding a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience at altitude.
* **Trek Style:** Enjoy the comfort and convenience of teahouse trekking, staying in local guesthouses along the route.
## #2 Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, largely due to the construction of new lodges along the route in 2010, making it more accessible and comfortable for trekkers. This trek encapsulates all the quintessential elements of a classic Himalayan trek: traversing deep, verdant valleys at lower altitudes, witnessing breathtaking panoramas of towering 8,000-meter peaks, and conquering a challenging 5,000-meter+ pass crossing. What sets the Manaslu Circuit apart is its relative isolation and unspoiled character, offering a more authentic and less crowded trekking experience.
Despite its increasing appeal and the recent development of roads in certain sections, the Manaslu Circuit retains a feeling of remoteness, with significantly fewer trekkers compared to the more established and well-trodden routes in Nepal. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a more solitary and immersive Himalayan adventure.
**Getting to the trailhead:** The journey to the starting point involves an 8-hour drive from the vibrant capital city of Kathmandu.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** Allocate a minimum of 13 days to complete the Manaslu Circuit and fully appreciate its diverse landscapes and cultural richness.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La pass, which reaches an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
* **Start/Finish:** The trek commences in Soti Khola and concludes in Besisahar, providing a diverse range of landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.
* **Difficulty:** Rated as challenging, the Manaslu Circuit requires a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience at high altitude.
* **Trek Style:** This trek is a teahouse trek, where you will stay in local guesthouses (teahouses) along the way, providing a comfortable and culturally immersive experience.
## #3 Langtang Trek
The Langtang Trek is a journey that resonates with the very soul. This trek holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially after enduring a period of hardship following the devastating earthquake of 2015. For a couple of years, the valley was devoid of travelers, but the resilient spirit of the local people has shone through. The trails have been painstakingly rebuilt, and the guesthouses have been lovingly restored, welcoming trekkers once again with open arms.
The Langtang trek leads you through a tapestry of magnificent forests, alive with the sounds of nature, before gradually ascending to the high alpine meadows and the serene yak pastures that surround Kyangjin Gompa, a venerable Buddhist monastery. From Kyangjin Gompa, you have the option of embarking on a rewarding day hike to the summit of Kyangjin Ri, a prominent peak that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Langtang Valley and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
**Getting to the trailhead:** The adventure begins with a scenic 7-hour drive from Kathmandu.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** A minimum of 7 days is recommended to experience the highlights of the Langtang Trek.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The trek reaches an altitude of 3800 meters at Kyanjin Gompa, with an optional day hike to Kyanjin Ri at 4773 meters.
* **Start/Finish:** The trek starts and finishes in Syabru Besi, a bustling village at the gateway to the Langtang National Park.
* **Difficulty:** The Langtang Trek is generally considered to be an easy to moderate trek, suitable for trekkers of varying fitness levels.
* **Trek Style:** As a teahouse trek, you will stay in comfortable guesthouses along the way, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
## #4 Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an unforgettable journey that leads you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Massif, bringing you to the very foot of the majestic Annapurna South. The scenery along this trek is remarkably distinct from many other classic treks in Nepal, characterized by its imposing verticality. Unlike the expansive vistas found elsewhere, the views here are more intimate, as you find yourself gazing almost directly upwards to witness the towering mountains that surround you, creating a sense of awe and wonder.
**Getting to the trailhead:** There are two options for reaching the starting point of the trek. You can take a short 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a 2-hour drive to Nayapul. Alternatively, you can opt for a longer but equally scenic 8-hour drive directly from Kathmandu to Nayapul.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** It is advisable to allocate at least 12 days to fully appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The trek reaches a maximum elevation of 4130 meters (13,550 feet) at Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks.
* **Start/Finish:** The trek starts and ends in Nayapul, a charming village that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region.
* **Difficulty:** The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is classified as moderate, making it suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
* **Trek Style:** The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a teahouse trek, where you will stay in comfortable and welcoming guesthouses along the route.
## #5 Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek presents a truly unique and captivating experience, showcasing an arid landscape that stands in stark contrast to almost all other treks in Nepal. The valley, adorned with its diverse shades of brown and crumbling sandstone cliffs, lies within the rain shadow of the mighty Himalaya, resulting in a desert-like environment. Historically, Mustang was an independent kingdom, and its distinct Tibetan-influenced traditions and culture make this trek a fascinating journey through both the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
**Getting to the trailhead:** Reaching the starting point requires a combination of flights. You will need to take two connecting flights: first, a 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a shorter 20-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** A minimum of 12 days is recommended to fully immerse yourself in the unique culture and landscapes of the Upper Mustang Trek.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The trek reaches a maximum elevation of 3810 meters (12,500 feet), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding arid landscape.
* **Start/Finish:** The trek starts and finishes in Jomsom, a bustling town in the Mustang region with an airport connecting it to Pokhara.
* **Difficulty:** The Upper Mustang Trek is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
* **Trek Style:** This is a teahouse trek, with accommodation available in guesthouses along the way.
## #6 Gokyo Lakes Trek
The Gokyo Lakes Trek, similar to the Three Passes Trek, shares significant portions of its route with the popular Everest Base Camp Trek. However, it veers off into a distinct valley situated to the west of Everest, offering a different perspective on the region’s beauty. The main attraction of this trek is undoubtedly the stunning Gokyo Lakes, a series of pristine glacial lakes nestled at an altitude of approximately 5,000 meters. From the shores of these turquoise waters, trekkers have the opportunity to ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357m /17,575 ft), a rocky peak that boasts some of the most expansive and unforgettable views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants.
**Getting to the trailhead:** As with the Everest Base Camp Trek, your journey begins with a thrilling 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** Allow a minimum of 12 days to fully explore the Gokyo Lakes region and acclimatize properly to the high altitude.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The highest point of the trek is the summit of Gokyo Ri, reaching an elevation of 5357 meters (17,575 feet), providing unparalleled views.
* **Start/Finish:** Your adventure begins and ends in Lukla, the bustling town that serves as the entry point to the Everest region.
* **Difficulty:** This trek is classified as challenging, requiring a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience at altitude.
* **Trek Style:** The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a teahouse trek, offering comfortable accommodation and meals in local guesthouses along the route.
## #7 Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is widely recognized as one of the most demanding and challenging treks in Nepal. This reputation stems from its sustained high-altitude nature, with trekkers spending three consecutive days traversing snow-covered terrain above 5,000 meters without readily available options for descent. However, for experienced and well-prepared trekkers who are seeking an unparalleled adventure, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek offers an unforgettable journey into the very heart of some of the world’s highest and most majestic mountains.
**Getting to the trailhead:** Reaching the trailhead requires a combination of transportation methods. You can opt for a 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a 2-hour drive to the starting point. Alternatively, you can choose a longer but equally scenic 8-hour drive directly from Kathmandu.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** It is recommended to allocate a minimum of 14 days to complete the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek and allow for proper acclimatization.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The highest point of the trek is the French Col, reaching an elevation of 5360 meters (17,585 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
* **Start/Finish:** The trek commences in Darbang and concludes in Marpha, providing a diverse range of landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.
* **Difficulty:** The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is classified as very challenging, requiring significant trekking experience at high altitude and excellent physical fitness.
* **Trek Style:** This trek is considered a remote camping trek, meaning that you will primarily be camping throughout the journey.
## #8 Nar Phu Valley Trek
The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers a genuine and immersive Himalayan wilderness experience, one that is as spectacular as it is unforgettable. This relatively isolated region was opened to visitors only recently, in 2002, adding to its allure and untouched character. Nestled between the more frequented Annapurna and Manaslu regions, Nar Phu is a true hidden gem, providing trekkers with a rare opportunity to explore pristine valleys that showcase a harmonious blend of raw Himalayan landscapes and ancient Buddhist traditions.
**Getting to the trailhead:** The journey to the starting point involves a full-day drive from Kathmandu via Besisahar to Koto.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** A minimum of 9 days is recommended to experience the highlights of the Nar Phu Valley Trek.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The trek reaches a maximum elevation of 5240 meters (17,200 feet), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
* **Start/Finish:** The trek starts in Koto and finishes in Pisang, providing a diverse range of landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.
* **Difficulty:** The Nar Phu Valley Trek is classified as challenging, requiring a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience at high altitude.
* **Trek Style:** This trek is considered a remote trek with rustic lodges, offering a more basic but authentic experience.
## #9 Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek holds a well-deserved place among the most renowned treks in the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its rich history, the stunning vistas it offers, and the unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant Sherpa culture that thrives in the region. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the trek’s very popularity has led to overcrowding on its main trails. This is the primary reason why other treks in the Everest region, such as the Three Passes Trek and the Gokyo Lakes Trek, are ranked higher on this list. Despite the crowds, the Everest Base Camp Trek remains a remarkable adventure that rightfully earns its place among Nepal’s best trekking experiences.
**Getting to the trailhead:** The adventure begins with an exhilarating 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** Allocate a minimum of 14 days to fully experience the Everest Base Camp Trek and acclimatize properly to the high altitude.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The trek reaches a maximum elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) at Everest Base Camp, the ultimate destination for many trekkers.
* **Start/Finish:** Your adventure begins and concludes in the vibrant town of Lukla.
* **Difficulty:** This trek is classified as challenging, demanding a good level of fitness.
* **Trek Style:** Enjoy the comfort and convenience of teahouse trekking, staying in local guesthouses.
## #10 Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek stands as another quintessential Himalayan trek, though it has experienced some changes in recent years due to both increased tourist traffic and the construction of roads in certain sections. While these roads have, to some extent, reduced the “unspoiled” character of the trek, approximately 12 days of hiking remain untouched by vehicular access, preserving the essence of the original adventure. Despite these changes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek remains a magnificent journey, highlighted by the challenging crossing of the 5,416-meter Thorong La pass. Consider including a side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest lakes, situated at an altitude of over 16,000 feet.
**Getting to the trailhead:** There are two options for reaching the starting point of the trek. You can take a short 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a 2-hour drive. Alternatively, you can opt for a longer but equally scenic 8-hour drive directly from Kathmandu.
**Fast facts in Detail:**
* **Minimum Duration:** A minimum of 12 days is recommended.
* **Maximum Elevation:** The trek reaches a maximum elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) at the Thorong La Pass.
* **Start/Finish:** The trek starts in Bhulbule and finishes in Jomsom, providing a diverse range of landscapes and cultural experiences.
* **Difficulty:** This trek is classified as challenging.
* **Accommodation:** This trek uses teahouses for accommodation.
If you are looking for shorter treks that still offer incredible Himalayan experiences, be sure to explore our curated list of the Best Short Treks in Nepal.
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