Famous Trekking Trails In Nepal

Introduction

Nepal is a landlocked country situated between China to the north and India to the south. Because of its landscape with lots of hills and mountains, many people from other countries come to visit. Most of the famous Himalaya Mountain range is in Nepal, and eight of the 14 highest peaks above 8,000 meters are here.

Consequently, Nepal is renowned as one of the best destinations for outdoor recreational activities, including mountaineering, trekking, hiking, mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, rock climbing, ice climbing, etc. Among these activities, mountaineering and trekking are particularly popular. Talking about the best season, it's autumn (September, October, and November) and spring (March, April, and May).

In this blog, you will discover more about the famous trekking trails in Nepal. Some of them are as follows:

1. Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal is a peak that lies under Nepal’s famous mountain, Machhapuchhre, in the Annapurna region. With a height of 5,587 meters above sea level, it is located in the Kaski district of the Gandaki province. The way to Mardi Base Camp is used as a trekking trail, with enough tea houses along the route for trekkers.

Image Source:Wikimedia Commons

During the Mardi Himal Trek, you will encounter Gurung people for most of the way, providing an opportunity to experience the culture of their community. In terms of difficulty, it is moderate and usually takes 4–7 days to complete the trek. However, the trek duration is also based on individual pace.

2. Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is the world’s highest trekking trail, with its highest point being Thorong La Pass, located in the Manang district of the Gandaki province, standing at an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level. The trekking trail covers parts of three districts in Nepal: Lamjung, Manang, and Mustang. Most tourists begin their trek from Lamjung; however, it is up to the individual's choice whether to start from Lamjung or Manang, and it ends in Mustang. The level of this trek is moderate.

Image: Thorong La Pass; Source: Annapurna Circuit Trek

Tea houses are available along the way for accommodation, all equipped with hot water and Wi-Fi facilities. The trek typically takes 10–14 days to complete. During the journey, you will have the opportunity to visit the famous farm in Bhrathang, Manang, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. As for the people, you will encounter Gurung communities along the way.

3. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is an alternative trekking trail to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Its highest point is Larke La Pass, which is at an elevation of 5,106 meters above sea level. From Larke La Pass, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Manaslu North (7,157 m), Nagadichuli (7,893 m), and Himalchuli (7,193 m).

Image Source: Manaslu Circuit Trek

Speaking of Manaslu, it is one of the 14 highest peaks in the world, located in the Gorkha district of the Gandaki province. It is part of the Mansiri Mountain Range. Regarding the route, the trek begins in Machha Khola, Gorkha, and ends in Dharapani, Manang. The duration and difficulty level of the trek are almost similar to those of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. During the trip, you will also experience the Tibetan lifestyle.

4. Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal, situated at an elevation of 5,364 meters above sea level. It is considered difficult, taking 14–16 days to complete. Its final point is Kala Patthar (5,555 m), from where you can witness one of the heavenly views of the world's highest peak, Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m).

Image Source: NTB

Regarding Mt. Everest, it is located in the Mahalangur Range. As a result, you will also enjoy views of other famous mountains in this range, such as Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m) from Kala Patthar. The entire trek is within the Solukhumbu district of Koshi Province. During this trek, you will meet the Sherpa people and have the chance to learn about their culture.

5. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek

ABC is one of the most famous and commercial trekking trails in Nepal. Many tourists from other countries visit Nepal to experience the majestic view of Annapurna I up close. This trail was first used by the legendary French mountaineer Maurice Herzog and his team during the 1950 French Annapurna expedition. He summited Annapurna I on June 3, 1950, marking the first time in human history that a mountain above 8000 m was climbed. Since then, the trail has gained fame and commercial popularity.

Image Source: nepal8thwonder

ABC is situated at an elevation of 4130 meters above sea level, located in Kaski. The starting point of the trek depends on the trekker, and there are three different points to begin the trek: Jhinu, Ghandruk, and Poon Hill. In terms of difficulty, it is considered moderate and takes 5-7 days to complete.

As it is a commercial trek, you don’t need to worry about overnight stays, as there are plenty of tea houses from the starting point to ABC. Each tea house provides facilities such as hot water and internet. During your trip, you will encounter the Gurung people and have the opportunity to experience their culture and cuisine, similar to the Mardi Himal Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek.