Trekking and Nepal are synonymous. You can’t speak of Nepal without the mention of treks and climbing expeditions. Similarly, when you speak of trekking or popular trekking destinations, the mention of Nepal is indispensable.
The land of the Himalayas has been a magnet for travelers, hikers, adventurers and climbers since ages. The sheer magnificence of the landscape coupled with the beauty of the giant snowy peaks acts as a catalyst for climbers, explorers and trekkers alike.
One of the best ways to explore a place is on foot and thus, trekking is the ideal way to witness the magical sights and sounds of this warm welcoming country. Trekking gets you up close and personal with the fascinating beauty of nature in this land and that’s what attracts millions of travelers from around the world to Nepal. If you really wish to experience the true beauty of Nepal then trekking is the way to go. For your convenience, we have listed out some of the best short treks in Nepal. Have a look.
Ghorepani – Poon Hill Trek
Minimum days: 4-5
If you are looking for a short as well as a popular trek in Nepal, then this one’s for you. The temperature is favorable on this trek and its lower elevations make it suitable for all age groups. The trek starts from Pokhara giving you the best views of the highest peaks in Nepal.
You will get an opportunity to walk through the villages of Gurungs and Magars in the area of Ghorepani crossing the villages of Ulleri and Ghandruk too. On your route, you will be accompanied by the beautiful forests of rhododendron and terraced farms along with the diverse flora and fauna making it a sight to behold.
You will be able to experience the most stunning sunrise and mountain views of Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and more. This trek welcomes you all times of the year but you just need to be careful during the winter season because of the dense snow which may block some of the passes.
Langtang Trek
Minimum days: 7
Langtang Valley Trek has always been a favorite among travelers. You will be left awestruck as you will get a close-up view of the snowy mountains and glaciers. This trek is 19 miles long and offers breathtaking views of the valleys surrounded by mountains and the famous Langtang National Park.
The trek begins from the remote hill station of Syabrubesi taking you up the stunning canyon of the Langtang Khola. You should take a morning hike to Kyanjin Ri to get an out of the world view of the Langtang Himal peaks and the glaciers.
You will head through the Langtang National Park and cross the Tamang villages. If you are looking for a less crowded destination and want to explore the Tibetan culture, then Langtang trek is your calling.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Minimum days: 8
The Annapurna Base Camp is the longest of other short treks but possible to complete within 7-8 days where you will be bestowed with the most spectacular views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhare and other peaks. On reaching the Annapurna Sanctuary you will be surrounded by magnificent mountains with an amazing background of Annapurna I which is the tallest peak in the Sanctuary.
Many tourists who visit Nepal have their first choice as Annapurna base camp trek since the trek is not that difficult and you get to stay in the teahouses. Another plus point of this trek is that you get to encounter the culture and traditions of the Himalayan villages up close and personal.
Everest View Trek
Minimum days: 5-6
This trek is for you if you do not have time to complete the Everest Base Camp trek. The views of Everest and Ama Dablam from above Namche Bazaar are breathtakingly beautiful.
You can take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, and trek to Namche Bazaar, where you can explore the Sherpa culture. Your base will be at Namche, from there you can hike to the village of Thame, which has a monastery high up on the cliffs and keep walking to Tengboche where you can stop to visit the popular monastery of Dawa Choling Gompa. The trekkers visit this place to seek blessings from the Head Lama for a successful trip. You will then hike to the Everest View Hotel to experience Mount Everest in its full beauty.
Dolakha – Kalinchowk Trek
Minimum days: 3-4
Kalinchowk is a Hindu shrine in the hills of Dolakha district, Nepal. If you are looking for a quick trek then this one’s for you as it is a short one which can be completed within 3-4 days.
The trek starts from Charikot of Dolakha district and is famously known for Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple located at the top of the hill. Your eyes will be soothed by the magnificent views of Mt. Gaurishankar, Annapurna, Jugal and Everest.
On your way up, you will get the opportunity to meet people of different cultures. If you visit the place in winter, you will be able to enjoy snowfall here. The mountains offer breathtakingly beautiful views in the winter.
Balthali Village Trek
Minimum days: 3-5
This trek is considered to be one of the best short treks from Kathmandu valley which covers Nagarkot, Panauti, and Dhulikhel village. You will be able to get a panoramic view of the mountains including Mt. Everest.
If you are interested to learn and experience the rural culture, religion, and life of the Nepalese people, then this trek is the perfect bet. You can spend some time with your family on this short trek in Nepal where you can experience the rich heritage and culture of Nepal.
The Balthali village is on a plateau, located at the junction of Roshi and Ladku rivers. You will be able to see snow-dusted peaks of Dorjee Lhakpa, Langtang and a range of mountains. You can also visit the ancient temples and monasteries like Namo Buddha, Brahmayani Temple, Indreshwar Mahadev Temple which you will come across on the trekking trail.
Mardi Himal Trek
Minimum days: 3-5
The route of Mardi Himal trek is moderate where you will walk through the rhododendron forest. It offers a stunning view of Mt. Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Mardi Peak, and other Annapurna ranges. This is considered one of the best treks from Pokhara.
The Mardi Himal Trek will leave you awestruck with it’s out of the world beauty. This trek is less frequented as compared to some of the other popular treks of Nepal. On this trek, you will walk on the beaten trails of the shepherds. The official opening of the trek was in 2012 and there are still limited tea houses that have basic facilities. Not many people walk on this trek which has kept it unspoiled and clean. However, you will have an opportunity to experience the diverse culture, forest walks and landscape of this beautiful place.
Kathmandu Valley Trek
Minimum days: 3-6
This trek goes through the Shivapuri National Park forests and various villages and the rugged paths on this trek has been a favorite amongst travelers for a short holiday in Nepal.
The Kathmandu Valley is mild throughout the winter, which makes it an ideal place to go on some shorter hikes at lower altitudes. The trek will take you from Kathmandu to Nagarkot, from where you will go to Dhulikhel and then down to Bhaktapur.
The towns of Nagarkot and Dhulikhel of Newari offer amazing views of the Himalayas. The highest peaks of the Kathmandu Valley are Phulchoki and Champadevi, which will make your hike fulfilling offering magnificent views of the mountains and the beautiful.
Dhampus Sarangkot Trek
Minimum days: 1-3
Dhampus Sarangkot trek is for the people who cannot climb to higher elevations and still want to experience the Himalayan views. It is an alternative to Annapurna’s view trekking. If you have a few days in Pokhara and want to have the best views of the mountains then this trek will be your favorite choice.
You will get the opportunity to explore the local villages of the area along with the valley of Pokhara and get the best mountain views. You can consider taking your children on this short trek.
Chisapani – Nagarkot – Dhulikhel Trek
Minimum days: 3
This one is one of the most famous treks in the valley designed for people with less time on their hands for trekking but interested in exploring the area. You will begin this trek from Sundarijal which is a one hour drive from Kathmandu.
You will walk uphill along the Bagmati River which will take you around 4-5 hours to reach Chisapani. Reaching there you will cross dense forest and a Tamang settlement. Enjoy the stunning views of sunrise and Chisapani Lake. After walking for around 8-9 hours, you will come to Nagarkot, a famous hill station which offers beautiful views of the mountains.
You will be crossing the various settlements of Tamangs, Chhetris, Brahmins, and Newars before you reach Dhulikhel. You can visit Namobuddha in Dhulikhel which is a famous Buddhist shrine to ask for blessings before going back.
Trekking in Nepal is an altogether different experience. From the rugged mountain paths to the spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks to the simple, friendly locals, the trekking experience becomes a cherishable memory that stays with you for life. Enjoy the outdoors and don’t forget to keep your garbage to yourself. Happy trekking!!!