Top 5 Routes for Nepal Hiking

When it comes to adventure sports, precisely trekking, no other place can beat the ecstasy of Nepal hiking. The country never disappoints the trek-lovers, thanks to the gorgeous terrain of the Nepalese Himalayas through the various trekking routes which are pure visual treats.

To talk about the best trekking routes would be unfair and difficult to pick from the hundreds of terrains, as each of them is unique and best in their own way. Yet, we try to compile the five top routes for Nepal hiking, varied as per the difficulty in trekking, remoteness, affordability, elevation, and several other things. We leave it to you to pick the one that suits your preference and affordability.

1. Everest Base Camp Trek

Maximum elevation: 5,600m (18,373ft), Kala Patthar
Number of days: 12-15 days
Trekking difficulty: Moderate
Remoteness: Frequented by high number of trekkers every year
Affordability: Moderate
Best visited in: February-May and September-November
Accommodation: Teahouse
Required permit: TIMS
Restricted permit: No

Undoubtedly the best option for trekking and hiking for those who wants to catch the world’s highest mountains real up close and personal! It is the pinnacle of all adventures when you reach the summit of the world’s highest mountain, Mt Everest, we agree. But inching close to it at the base camp is no less adventurous.

The trekking trail takes you to a glorious walk en route the breath-taking high passes and roaring Dudhkoshi River. You get to explore the Sherpa villages and their exclusive lifestyles. Certified as one of the most remarkable Nepal hiking, EBC trek begins after 35 minutes scenic mountain flight to Lukla exploring the enormous Everest range, beautiful explored valleys, unique Sherpa culture, and distinct and rare flora and fauna of the Himalayan region.

2. Langtang Valley Trek

Maximum elevation: 4,984m (16,352ft), Tserko Ri
Number of days: 10 days
Trekking difficulty: Moderate
Remoteness: Not remote, much frequented
Affordability: Cheap
Best visited in: March-May and September-December
Accommodation: Teahouse
Required permit: TIMS
Restricted permit: No

Famous for its diverse vegetation and cultured villages, the Langtang Valley trek is a mesmerizing Nepal hiking. Taking you to the vantage point of Langtang Ri with a spectacular view of the Annapurnas and Makalu, it is a complete panoramic view to stun your senses with. Though quite close to Kathmandu, the region is rough and wild like any other Tibetan highlands with rural landscapes scattered randomly.

The trek route offers you a chance exposing your soul to a lifetime experience to walk past the beautiful glaciers at a quite low altitude. It also lets you to learn the unique Tamang culture. It is a complete package for the one who wants trekking, and at the same time want to dig into the cultural and traditional face of the place. Get going through the lush forest, farmlands, and yak pastures along the thrilling landscape.

3. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Maximum elevation: 5,125m (16,814ft) at Larkya Pass
Number of days: 15 days
Trekking difficulty: Strenuous
Remoteness: Remote and unfrequented
Affordability: Moderate
Best visited in: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Guesthouses & Lodges
Required permit: TIMS, ACAP, MCAP, RAP
Restricted permit: Yes; at least two trekkers accompanied by a Nepali guide or Porter required

Want to treat your eyes with the panoramic view of the peaks on Nepal-Tibet border? Manaslu Circuit trek is exclusively for you. This outstanding trek trail is all about the beauty of the stunning Mount Manaslu, which remains the 8th highest mountain in the world. The trek would take you to the highest at Larkya Pass along with other challenging Mountain Passes while covering some of the most spectacular Hindu and Tibetan-style villages.

Manaslu Circuit trekking route is quite remote and not frequented by many. However, with its diverse and rich topography, the route is guaranteed to allure the nature lovers. No wonder the fabulous experience is a treat for the adventurous ones. You have to be accompanied by another trekker and a Nepali guide or porter is a must as a trekking partner within the restricted area permitted to trek.

4. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Maximum elevation: 5,160m (16,929ft), Lapsang Pass
Number of days: 20 days
Trekking difficulty: Extremely difficult
Remoteness: Very remote
Affordability: Pricey
Best visited in: March-May and October-November
Accommodation: Camping
Required permit: KCA, RAP
Restricted permit: Yes

You are about to kick-start your trekking journey to the base camp of the world’s second highest peak, the amazing Mt Kanchenjunga. The trekking route is difficult, where the journey takes you along the wilderness of high-mountain terrain, and at the same time into the deep of the secluded areas on Nepal’s border shared with Sikkim and Tibet. Nonetheless, the rough terrain does offer you to discover the culture and natural beauty of eastern Nepal.

The entire region en route is the home to some of the most exotic wildlife of Asia. The perfect blend of the untouched local culture and the mind-blowing exotic nature is what makes it a much rewarding adventure. Thanks to the difficult trekking trail, it is a must to take along a Nepali guide or porter and you must be accompanied by a trekking partner.

5. Upper Dolpo

Maximum elevation: 5,250m (17,224ft), Kang La Pass
Number of days: 22 days
Trekking difficulty: Moderate
Remoteness: Very remote and unfrequented
Affordability: Pricey
Best visited in: March-May and October-November
Accommodation: Camping
Required permit: RAP
Restricted permit: Yes

This hidden gem for Nepal hiking is not something everyone knows about. Furnished with Tibetan style villages, mesmerizing barren landscapes, and scenic mountain peaks, this is a region worth trying Nepal hiking. The region is famous for treasuring a centuries-old culture untouched by the modern world.

You will be crossing three high passes through the trekking trail that include Nagdalo La with an altitude of 5,350m (17,552ft), Shey La with an altitude of 5,000m (16,404ft) and Jeng La with an altitude of 5,110m (16,765ft). The journey en route is tiring and involves long climbs and exhausting steeps. The trekking path at Upper Dolpo is not easy and indeed very challenging. Yet, the surrounding is a treat to the senses with some of the most stunning landscapes, exceptional mountain views, and a cultural exposure worth digging into. Mainly for its dangerous trail, it is a must for minimum two trekkers to take the journey accompanied by a Nepali guide or porter.