From Everest Base Camp to Remote Himalayan Trails: The Nepal Treks Every Adventure Lover Should Experience

Introduction

Nepal has earned its spot as the world’s trekking capital, and that is completely justified. Hiking in Nepal is good for your eyes and your soul. You come across beautiful villages, surrounded by the gorgeous Himalayas. And while you trek through them, you find hanging bridges, glacial rivers, and centuries-old monasteries along the way. This makes the best treks in Nepal some of the most memorable you will ever have.

Nepal is very popular among Indian trekkers. Geographically, it is quite close and relatively affordable. You don’t need a visa to enter Nepal, which makes it further accessible. There are several Nepal base camps, including the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp and the Everest Base Camp. For Indian trekkers, these allow for convenient international adventures.

Best Treks in Nepal

Before we explore the details, here’s a quick look at some of the  best treks in Nepal:

Famous trekking routes in Nepal

1. Everest Base Camp Trek

When you think about Nepal, you automatically think of the mighty Mount Everest. And if there is one trek that characterises trekking in Nepal, it has to be the Nepal Everest Base Camp trek. It is a dream for trekkers across the globe. You climb towards the highest peak in the world. Every step you take gets etched in history, while you get mesmerised by the beauty around.

The Everest Base Camp trek takes about twelve to fourteen days and is challenging. You fly into Lukla and then walk through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche before reaching Gorakshep. From there you head to Everest Base Camp and then climb Kala Patthar, which sits at 5,545 metres and gives you the best view of Mount Everest. Along the way you will pass Sherpa villages, cross suspension bridges, visit Buddhist monasteries, walk past glaciers, and catch the iconic sunrise from Kala Patthar. You need a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit to do this trek. The best time to go is March to May or September to November when the weather is stable, and the views are clearest. Although the trail is not technically difficult, the high altitude and long trekking days make acclimatisation very crucial.

2. Annapurna Base Camp

If the EBC Nepal trekking option feels too intimidating, the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp trek is your friendlier alternative. The trek begins from Pokhara, which is one of the most popular vacation spots in Nepal. This automatically puts you in a jolly mood and removes all your apprehensions. You then trek through beautiful forests, terraced farmland, and hot spring villages.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes about seven to twelve days and is moderately difficult. You start from Nayapul and pass through Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali before reaching Machapuchare Base Camp and finally Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres. Along the way, you will walk through the Annapurna Sanctuary, get clear views of Machapuchare, pass rhododendron forests, see waterfalls, stop at hot springs, and stay in traditional Gurung villages. You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and a TIMS card. The best time to go is March to May or September to November when the weather is good, and the trails are clear. Annapurna Trek Nepal is the perfect pick for first-time Himalayan trekkers.

3. Langtang Valley

The Langtang Valley is often considered to be a hidden Nepal trekking route. It offers incredible mountain scenery, but is much less crowded compared to the Annapurna Trek Nepal and the Nepal Everest Base Camp trek.

The Langtang Valley trek takes about 7 to 10 days and is moderately difficult. You start from Syabrubesi and pass through Lama Hotel and Langtang Village before reaching Kyanjin Gompa. If you are up for it, you can climb Kyanjin Ri, which sits at 4,773 metres and gives you a proper view of the snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you will walk through alpine meadows, see glaciers, pass yak pastures, and get a real feel for Tamang culture. You need a Langtang National Park Entry Permit and a TIMS card to do this trek. The best months to go are March to May and October to November when the weather is clear, and the trails are in good shape.

4. Poon Hill

Poon Hill may be Nepal’s best gateway to trekking in the Himalayas. The Poon Hill Trek is famous for many things, but among them, the unforgettable sunrises always hold top position! Lots of trekkers climb to the viewpoint before dawn every day, as sunlight slowly lights up the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare peaks, giving you some truly unreal views.

The Poon Hill trek is one of the best Nepal treks if you do not have a lot of time. It takes about four to five days, and the difficulty is easy to moderate, so most people can handle it without too much trouble. You start from Nayapul and walk through Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani before heading up to Poon Hill at 3,210 metres. The sunrise from the top gives you a full panoramic view of the Himalayas, and it is genuinely worth the early wake-up call. Along the trail you will pass through colourful forests, stop in charming Gurung villages, and sleep in comfortable tea houses that make the whole thing feel a lot easier than it probably should. You will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and a TIMS card before you set off. The best time to go is March to May or September to November when the skies are clear, and the walking conditions are at their best.

Poon Hill is ideal for beginners hiking in Nepal, or for travellers with limited time who still want breathtaking mountain views.

5. Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang feels completely different from the rest of Nepal. You won’t find the deep, green forests here. Rather, you’ll see colourful cliffs next to the steep canyons. You will also find ancient caves and centuries-old monasteries. The region remained closed to outsiders until the early 1990s, helping preserve its Tibetan culture. A truly remarkable region, offering some of the best treks in Nepal.

The Upper Mustang trek takes about ten to fourteen days and is moderately difficult. You start from Jomsom and pass through Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, and Tsarang before reaching Lo Manthang, which sits at 3,840 metres. That is your highest point. The landscape out here is dry and desert-like, nothing like the green hills you see in other parts of Nepal. You will come across ancient monasteries, cave dwellings, and the walled city of Lo Manthang itself, which feels like you have stepped back a few centuries. To do this trek, you need a Restricted Area Permit and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. The good news is you can go from May to October, and it works even during the monsoon because this region sits in a rain shadow, so it barely gets any rain.

If you are looking for a truly unique trek through beautiful landscapes and old Tibetan cultures, then the Upper Mustang trek is tailor-made for you.

Trekking Tips & Preparation

Before exploring the various Nepal base camps, you must prepare well for your excursion. Here are some handy tips for you:

1. Altitude sickness prevention

Altitude sickness is the one thing that can ruin a Nepal base camp trip regardless of how fit you are. To get past this issue, you have to be clear about one thing – stay hydrated, rest well and acclimatise very well before you begin your trek. Do not take this lightly, as altitude sickness can make you very ill, very soon. The common symptoms include headache, dizziness and nausea. If you experience any signs of altitude sickness, seek medical help immediately.

2. Essential gear

You need to be dressed properly before leaving for the Nepal treks. Carry your waterproof trekking boots, as they will be essential for all the treks. Also, carry some layered clothing, thermal jackets, headlamps, etc. Additionally, carry some water purifying tablets, essential medicines, and so on. Being prepared is the key, so you cannot skip this part.

3. TIMS card and other permits

Paperwork is simple but non-optional. The TIMS card covers most treks. National park permits depend on where you are headed. Carry passport photos and cash, as ATMs vanish fast once you leave the cities, and card machines are basically mythical above 3,000 metres.

4. Preparation

Prepare well for the trip. Train as required, undergo medical tests and get the green signal from your doctor. Also, do all the bookings. Consider a Thomas Cook Nepal package, as that helps getting to the region easier. Thomas Cook has some wonderful packages, so explore them before you book your trip.

Conclusion

Nepal is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. It is close to India, so a quick trip to Nepal is always feasible. And if you are a trekking enthusiast, this tiny Himalayan nation will give you every reason to plan a trip. So what are you waiting for?