Top 5 Must-Do Treks In Nepal for Every Adventure Seeker
Everyone knows that Nepal is home to Mount Everest and eight of the world’s ten highest mountains.
However, the best treks in Nepal are now more than just exploring the Himalayas or conquering the mountains. There has been a paradigm shift focusing on sustainable trekking or eco-trekking in Nepal.
Now, the eco-tourism market in Nepal is growing and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% between 2023-2033. Further, the said market will reach USD 1,383.8 million by 2033.
This growth is a wonderful telltale of how the best treks in Nepal contribute to bolstering Nepal’s position as an eco-tourism hub.
Moreover, as a conscious traveler or trekker, you must choose the trekking practices that align your travel experiences with environmental values.
So, you may be a beginner, or you may have years of trekking experiences. It’s time to raise a toast to the top 5 must-do treks in Nepal for every adventure seeker and more. These trekking routes are going to play a critical role in shaping an environment-friendly future for Nepal.
The mountains are calling. Let’s hit the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Annapurna Circuit, and Gokyo Lake Trek.
Top 5 Best Treks In Nepal: Living Your Mountain Dreams
The shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, are ideal for exploring the best treks in Nepal. So, you must plan your trekking expedition in Nepal between late March to April and September to early November.
So, make haste and visit these best trekking routes in Nepal.
1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek stands out with its heavenly views and cultural richness.
The moderate trek, which takes about 70 kilometers, ascends to 4,130 meters at the base camp.
Further, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts in Pokhara and moves through forests, rice terraces, and small villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong. Also, throughout the trekking route, you will experience the stunning views of Mount Annapurna, Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
The trail also passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, where the different vegetation and wildlife add to the experience.
Furthermore, you will love the hospitality of the Gurung and Magar tribes in residing in genuine teahouses.
Moreover, Annapurna Base Camp now has an expanded telecom service thanks to the Nepal Telecom. It was started in 2024. So, now, you can experience better connectivity as you explore this trek in Nepal.
2. Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal and the world. It takes you to an elevation of 5,364 meters above sea level. Your trek to the Everest Base Camp will begin from Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region.
Then, you can plan acclimatization at Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. Here, you will find beautiful monasteries that offer meaningful spiritual and cultural experiences.
Further, during your trekking expedition, you will meet the Great Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse blessing you with their great views.
Also, the Everest Base Camp is much beyond an opportunity to soak in the greatness of the Himalayas. Here, the warmth of the Sherpa culture will make you feel at home.
In addition, the trek passes through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and home to Mount Everest. The Sagarmatha National Park also has diverse wildlife.
3. Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to Mount Manaslu, the eight-highest peak in the world. This challenging trek begins at Machha Khola and ends at Dharapani, covering about 180 km in 13 days.
The trek on this route continues through dense forests, and the trails are quite haphazard, adding to the difficulty level of the trek.
Furthermore, you will meet Budhi Gandaki Gorge on your way. Here, the rivers turn blue, and cascading waterfalls create a stunning landscape.
However, for me, the high point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is crossing Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, where the spectacular view of Manaslu and Annapurna II will leave you awestruck.
4. Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is a 131-km circular trail that surrounds the Annapurna Massif. It passes through two river gorges and reaches its highest point at Thorung La Pass.
Further, it is located at an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level, and the journey begins from Besisahar and ends at the Kali Gandaki Gorge.
Here, you will walk through various landscapes filled with stepped fields, subtropical forests, and high-altitude desert plains. Also, the views of Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre will offer you a humbling experience.
Like most trekkers, you can take an anticlockwise route here so that your body gets enough time to acclimatize.
On your way, you will find villages practicing a fusion of Hindu and Tibetan cultures. The people here are very hospitable, and they have fascinating stories to share.
5. Gokyo Lake
The Gokyo Lakes in Sagarmatha National Park are the world’s highest freshwater lake system, ranging between 4,700 and 5,000 meters in elevation.
Further, the Ramsar site, spanning 7,770 hectares, has 19 lakes. Six of them are the most significant, and Thonak Cho is the largest lake, covering 65.07 hectares.
However, Gokyo Lakes or Gokyo Cho, Dudh Pokhari, is probably the most popular one. It stretches 42.9 hectares, and it has a depth of 43 meters.
The crystal clear and aqua-blue water of the lakes looks tranquil, and it is the main source of water for downstream communities.
Moreover, these lakes serve as a habitat for rare wildlife, including snow leopards and Himalayan tahrs.
Treks In Nepal: The Stories Do Not End Here
Treks in Nepal started in the mid-20th century, and since then, the saga has continued. Along with the top five treks I have mentioned here, you can also explore the Upper Mustang Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Helambu Trek, etc.
All these treks offer a wonderful fusion of Himalayan beauty, rich wildlife, spiritual immersion, adventure, and a rich cultural experience.
So, enjoy the best of nature and achieve the highest personal adventure milestone by planning a trek to Nepal.
The mountains are calling!
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