If you’re thinking about visiting Nepal, this snapshot overview of some of the best treks that the country has to offer is everything you’ve been searching for. From the most popular trekking destinations to hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered, from grueling encounters to short and scintillating journeys, this guide of the best short treks in Nepal has everything that you could possibly imagine.
Nepal attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year and more than 200000 of these visitors come to the country to become a part of one if its magnificent treks through the Himalayan region. If you’re still wondering which trek suits your preferences and your lifestyle, take a look at some of the most popular trekking adventures below.
We believe that choosing the ultimate short trek in Nepal ultimately boils down to answering a few basic questions and then finalizing a trekking experience that offers everything you’re looking for. Here are some of the questions you need to be asking yourself before taking a plunge into the Himalayas.
- The level of difficulty that you’re most comfortable with. There are easy, moderate and difficult treks you can choose from, so choose carefully.
- The number of days you’d like to spend on a trek in Nepal. Short treks usually range from 5 to 10 days.
- The remoteness you’re looking for. Some treks can be incredibly remote, but others are fairly commercialized. Remember, the remote treks might not offer luxury lodges and fully developed accommodation options either.
- The amount you’re willing to spend on a trek.
- The season you choose for trekking. Most treks in Nepal usually feel the best between September to November and March to May.
- Whether you’re traveling alone or in a group. Some treks have restricted permits, which means that you need at least 2 people and a guide to do that trek.
Here are some of the best short treks in Nepal to choose from. Each of these treks offers a wide range of options, ensuring that you always have something perfect right in front of you.
Poonhill Trek – 5 to 7 Days
Those looking for a short trek that lets them explore the beauty of the Himalayas won’t find a better option than the Poonhill trek. Rising to a height of 3210 meters, Poonhill presents some of the best views of the surrounding mountainside, and despite the number of stairs you have to climb in this trek, the experience is well worth it. The trek requires moderate fitness, and is usually a great option for all kinds of travelers. There’s no real risk of altitude sickness, and the beauty all around is simply spell-binding.
Highlights
- Fantastic sunrise views from Poonhill
- Close to the city of Pokhara
- Great cultural insights into the region’s heritage
Lowlight
- The trek can be quite strenuous
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy Difficulty
- Remoteness: Not Remote
- Pricing: Cheap
- Best Season: October to November and March to May
- Accommodation type: Basic tea houses, luxury lodges
- Restricted Permits: No
- Max elevation: 3,210 m (Poonhill)
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes
Langtang Trek – 7 to 13 Days
The Langtang trek is easily the best short trek in Nepal. Located close to the Tibetan border, this mind-blowing journey not only introduces you to scintillating scenery, but also presents ancient Buddhist culture at its eloquent best. The trek passes through a number of monasteries and villages and lets you visit a peak that rises to heights of more than 4900 meters.
Highlights
- Trekking to the top of Tserko Peak (4984 m)
- An authentic experience in a short time
- Culturally rich region
Lowlight
- The trek feels the same while going up and coming down
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 3 – Moderate difficulty
- Remoteness: Not Remote
- Pricing: Cheap
- Best Season: October to November and March to May
- Accommodation type: Tea houses, luxury lodges
- Restricted Permits: No
- Max elevation: Tserko Ri (4984m)
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes
Kathmandu Valley Trek – 4 to 7 Days
The Kathmandu Valley trek offers an exquisite trekking experience right outside the city. It brings you closer to fascinating natural beauty and rural cultures, all the while keeping you close to the majestic mountains that make this region so popular. The valley is surrounded by a number of 7000 and 8000 plus mountains, so you can always expect phenomenal views and enjoyable experiences. The Kathmandu Valley rim is sure to be the highlight of this trek as it lets you enjoy 180-degree views that stretch from the Everest in the east to Annapurna in the west.
Highlights
- Explore the stunning Kathmandu Valley
- Enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside
- Visit ancient villages and become a part of age-old cultures and traditions
Lowlight
- The trek usually covers the foothills of the mountains, so don’t expect to get close to stunning peaks and alpine scenery
Trek Facts
- Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy difficulty
- Remoteness: Not Remote
- Price/ Cost: Cheap
- Best Season: October to November and March to May
- Accommodation type: Basic tea houses, luxury lodges