Top 15 Hiking & Trekking Trails in Nepal, Himalayas

 Last Updated: 19 May, 2025 By Arun Joshi

Nepal is a place where the dreams of trekking and adventure lovers come true. Here, you can scale incredible heights and explore surreal destinations that leave lasting memories. Experience the real thrill of trekking in Nepal, where towering peaks, rugged terrains, and the unparalleled beauty of nature offer an adventure of a lifetime.

With trails ranging from easy to challenging, Nepal caters to every type of trekker. Some routes are surrounded by lush green vegetation, others traverse tough barren landscapes, and many offer jaw-dropping views that take your breath away. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, trekking in Nepal is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Breathtaking mountains, stunning scenery, rare wildlife, and exhilarating heights—all these elements make Nepal one of the best trekking destinations in the Himalayas. Here is a list of the top 15 hiking and trekking trails in Nepal where you can create memories that last a lifetime.

Top 15 Trekking Destinations in Nepal

• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Langtang Valley Trek
• Dhampus Trek
• Tamang Heritage Trail
• Upper Mustang
• Mount Kanchenjunga Trek
• Gokyo Ri Trek
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• Upper Dolpo Trek
• Helambu Trek
• Rolwaling Trek
• Three Passes Trek
• Island Peak Trek in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek

• Difficulty: Medium
• Maximum Elevation: 5,600 m
• Duration: 12–13 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

Dreaming of seeing the highest peak in the world, Mt. Everest? Then the Everest Base Camp Trek should definitely be on your list of must-do treks in Nepal. This iconic trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, taking you through breathtaking landscapes and famous Sherpa villages.

The Sherpa people, native to this region, are renowned for their exceptional mountaineering skills and have long supported climbers in their summit attempts of Mt. Everest. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their rich culture and unique way of life.

The trek’s highest point is Kala Patthar, a famous vantage spot offering panoramic views of Everest and its surrounding peaks. The route includes challenging and less conventional trails such as Kala Patthar and Nagarkarsang. You’ll also pass through Sagarmatha National Park, and witness the rapidly melting Imja Glacier, which is turning into a lake due to the effects of global warming.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding treks in the Nepal Himalayas.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 5,416 m
• Duration: 14–15 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

Starting from the town of Besisahar, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most famous trekking routes in Nepal, stretching over 160 to 230 kilometers depending on the specific trail taken. This scenic trek offers an immersive experience of Nepal’s diverse landscapes and rich natural beauty.

Along the journey, trekkers are treated to stunning views of towering peaks, including Annapurna II and IV, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Langtang Himal. The trail reaches its highest point at Thorung La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,416 meters, offering awe-inspiring panoramas.

This trek showcases dramatic changes in terrain—ranging from lush jungles and alpine meadows to arid hills. Along the route, one also encounters culturally significant sites, such as Hindu temples and Buddhist villages, providing a glimpse into the spiritual life of the region.

After summiting Thorung La, trekkers descend to Charabu, another picturesque stop along the trail. The Annapurna Circuit is among the most popular treks in Nepal and attracts countless adventure enthusiasts every year.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Difficulty: Hard
• Maximum Elevation: 5,135 m
• Duration: 15–16 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

Often regarded as one of the best trekking trails in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers breathtaking views and an exhilarating trekking experience. It provides adventurers with the chance to witness the stunning panorama of the Himalayan mountains along the Nepal-Tibet border.

Beginning at an altitude of just 700 meters, the trail becomes increasingly challenging as it ascends. Trekkers pass through lush green forests, remote villages, and diverse landscapes before reaching the summit at Larkya Pass (5,135 m), the highest point of the trek. From here, the view of Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak, is truly spectacular.

Opened to trekkers in the 1990s, the Manaslu Circuit has continued to attract thrill-seekers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters, the trek delivers both physical challenge and a powerful adrenaline rush.

It’s important to note that the Manaslu region requires trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed Nepali guide, with a minimum of two trekkers per group.

Langtang Valley Trek

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 4,984 m
• Duration: 8–10 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

If you’re looking to trek in the Nepal Himalayas, the Langtang Valley Trek is one of the best options. This beautiful and relatively shorter trail is renowned for its diverse vegetation and culturally rich villages. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.

One of the main starting points of the trek is Syabrubesi, from where trekkers follow the Langtang River eastward until they reach Kyangjin Gompa, situated at an altitude of 3,049 meters. The valley offers exceptionally stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is ideal for those wanting to experience the well-preserved Tamang culture, scenic landscapes, and rich flora of the Langtang region.

The trail takes you through rose tree forests, dense bamboo groves, and onward to snow-capped peaks such as Kyangjin Ri (4,350 m), Dorje Lakpa, and Shisha Pangma—the only 8,000-meter peak located in Tibet. Along the way, trekkers are also treated to mesmerizing views of the Annapurna Range.

As you ascend to Kyangjin Ri, you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Langtang mountain range. In addition to Kyangjin Gompa, several other monasteries can be seen along the route, adding spiritual depth to this remarkable trek.

Dhampus Trek

• Difficulty: Easy
• Maximum Elevation: 1,700 m
• Duration: 2–4 days
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round

Showcasing spectacular scenery and diverse terrain, the Dhampus Trek is a classic short trek in Nepal. Though relatively brief, it offers a rewarding experience—especially with its stunning views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).

This trek gives you the opportunity to explore the inhabited rural landscapes of Nepal and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trail passes through serene stretches of forest, making it one of the best short treks for nature lovers.

The Dhampus Trek also includes a visit to a traditional Gurung village, where trekkers can admire the local culture and soak in breathtaking mountain views from the village viewpoint.

Tamang Heritage Trail

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 3,870 m
• Duration: 12–13 days
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round

Experience one of Nepal’s most exciting treks—the Tamang Heritage Trail. This culturally rich and scenic trek runs between the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges and is ideal for beginners, thanks to its easy to moderate difficulty level.

More than just a trekking adventure, the trail offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Tamang people, who inhabit this beautiful and lesser-explored region of Nepal.

With its combination of natural beauty and cultural depth, the Tamang Heritage Trail is a rewarding journey for those looking to experience the heart and soul of rural Nepal.

Upper Mustang Trek

• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
• Maximum Elevation: 3,810 m
• Duration: 13–14 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

A picturesque and geopolitically sensitive region, Upper Mustang was opened to trekkers only in 1992. The trek begins on moderate terrain and becomes more challenging as you ascend to higher altitudes. Nestled in the mighty Himalayas, Mustang is often described as a paradise-like destination in Nepal.

The Upper Mustang Trek takes you through barren, treeless landscapes shaped by the region’s location in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri Mountain, resulting in its distinctive, rugged terrain. Despite its arid look, the scenery is stunning and captivating.

Trekkers follow an ancient salt caravan route, crossing alpine mountain passes such as Lo (3,950 m), one of the trek’s highest points. The highest point of the trek is Dhakmar, home to the world’s oldest Tibetan monastery. The second-highest point is Lo Manthang, a historic walled city known for its unique architecture and cultural heritage.

One of the most fascinating attractions is the Royal Palace, along with several monasteries, including Thugchen Gompa, and the Amchi Museum, which offers insights into traditional Tibetan medicine and local history.

Mount Kanchenjunga Trek

• Difficulty: Difficult
• Maximum Elevation: 5,143 m
• Duration: 20–21 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

If you’re a true adventure enthusiast, you can’t miss the opportunity to take part in the Mount Kanchenjunga Trek—one of the most challenging trekking expeditions in Nepal. Widely regarded as one of the most difficult treks in the world, this route is best suited for seasoned trekkers looking to add another remarkable achievement to their list.

The trek begins at Suketar and winds through lush green forests, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape. The highest point of the trek is Pangpema, located at an elevation of 5,143 meters. The combination of rugged terrain, high altitude, and harsh weather conditions makes this trek both demanding and deeply rewarding.

The Kanchenjunga region is home to the Rai and Limbu communities—ethnic groups of Tibetan descent—whose traditional villages can be seen along the way. Trekkers journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine regions, where the natural beauty remains largely untouched.

This trek offers not only physical challenge but also cultural richness, giving adventurers a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in local traditions while surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.

Gokyo Ri Trek

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 5,357 m
• Duration: 12–13 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

From towering mountain peaks to mesmerizing high passes, the Gokyo Ri Trek offers breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences throughout. Many trekkers consider this route an alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek, as it provides equally stunning views from points that rival Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp’s highest viewpoint.

Though comparatively easier, the Gokyo Ri Trek remains an exciting adventure and one of Nepal’s top trails. It rewards trekkers with spectacular views of iconic peaks such as Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and Makalu.

A major highlight of the trek is the magnificent Khumbu Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal’s Himalayan region. Another attraction is the crystal-clear Gokyo Lake, whose serene beauty makes this trek a must-do for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Difficulty: Easy
• Maximum Elevation: 3,210 m
• Duration: 5 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

The breathtaking sunrise view of the snow-clad Annapurna Range at 3,210 meters is a highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Compared to other treks in Nepal, this is an easy and short trek that takes you through terraced farmland and offers warm hospitality from the Gurung community.

Because of its accessibility and cultural richness, it is considered one of the best treks in Nepal to experience the beauty and hospitality of the Annapurna region in a short amount of time. This trek is especially ideal for travelers interested in exploring different cultures alongside stunning natural scenery.

Upper Dolpo Trek

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 5,250 m
• Duration: 22 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

Upper Dolpo is one of the most remote regions in Nepal, and trekking here offers an experience of a lifetime. Although the trek is moderate in difficulty, it provides truly stunning sights along the way. The highest point of the trek is Nagdalo La, but trekkers also cross other high passes such as Jeng La (5,110 m) and Shey La (5,350 m).

As you traverse the mesmerizing landscapes, observe local cultures, and take in the majestic mountain views, you’ll find the Upper Dolpo trek truly enchanting. This 21-day expedition is filled with excitement and breathtaking scenery.

Along the route, you’ll also visit the beautiful Phoksundo Lake, the ancient Shey Gompa monastery, and the historic trans-Himalayan trade route. This trek offers a deep connection with Nepal’s wild and untouched wilderness, making it a rewarding journey for any adventurer.

Helambu Trek

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 3,650 m
• Duration: 8 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Helambu is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Nepal. It is also a perfect destination for trekking and similar outdoor adventures. If you’re ready to embark on an exciting journey, this trek is the right choice for you.

Helambu is famous not only for its trek but also for its sweet apples and its artistic Buddhist pilgrimage sites. This region of highland villages is located about 80 km from Kathmandu.

Rolwaling Trek

• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Maximum Elevation: 6,272 m
• Duration: 18 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

Nestled between the Gaurishankar Himal and Rolwaling Himal, the Rolwaling Trek is considered one of the most beautiful trekking trails in Nepal. As you ascend this trail, you will catch glimpses of the Sherpa community and be treated to spectacular views of the Himalayan range.

This adventurous trek offers plenty for nature lovers, with the trail passing through stunning landscapes featuring rhododendron and juniper forests. Known for its difficulty, the Rolwaling Trail was first discovered during the preliminary surveying of Mount Everest. Often referred to as Nepal’s finest high valley, Rolwaling promises a challenging yet rewarding experience.

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Three Passes Trek

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Maximum Elevation: 5,550 m
• Duration: 19–20 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

This trek gets its name because it crosses three high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. The Three Passes Trek is considered the ultimate journey in the Everest region, promising a blend of spectacular mountain views and heartwarming local culture.

The trek’s main highlight is Kala Patthar, standing at an elevation of 5,335 meters. The highest point of the trek is Chokhung Ri, located at 5,550 meters, where trekkers can stand face to face with the mighty Mt. Everest.

Island Peak Trek in Nepal

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Maximum Elevation: 6,160 m
• Duration: 15–16 days
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November

Situated at a soaring height of 6,160 meters above sea level, Island Peak is a breathtaking destination to savor in Nepal. Trekking around this stunning peak is an experience no adventure enthusiast should miss.

Island Peak is mostly a non-technical trek, requiring only basic snow climbing skills for the ascent. It is a challenging trail that combines trekking with elements of mountaineering. The journey begins in the Khumbu Region at Lukla town, situated at an altitude of 2,850 meters, where the views of the Himalayan Mountains are truly exceptional.

Along the way, trekkers pass through quaint villages nestled in remote valleys and high mountain passes. You will encounter the unique local culture, visit Buddhist monasteries, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Dudh Kosi River.

One of the key stopovers is the Tengboche Monastery, which offers spectacular views of Mount Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.

The thrill and excitement are waiting for you—so don’t hold back! Let your adrenaline rush and enjoy your trekking holidays in Nepal to the fullest. If you want to learn more about trekking and hiking in Nepal or wish to avail yourself of our expertly crafted Nepal trekking packages, simply give us a call at +91-9212553109 or send an email to info@peakadventuretour.com. Peak Adventure Tours guarantees the best trekking experiences in Nepal to make your adventure truly unforgettable.

Published: 23 Jan, 2018By Arun Joshi