TOP 10 BEST TREKS FOR THE BEGINNERS IN NEPAL
Nepal is a mountainous country where there are more than 1300 peaks altogether. Among 10 of the highest peaks of the world, Nepal has 8 of them. Interesting, isn’t it! Especially, the top of the world - Mount Everest. Nepal offers you the countless trekking opportunities to enjoy the beautiful Himalayas and the Himalayan landscapes with a glimpse of the local cultures, traditions and the lifestyles. There are varieties of treks for all types of trekking enthusiasts. From the most extreme trekking ‘The Great Himalayan Trail’ to one day pleasant trek, Nepal can satisfy the desire of every trekking enthusiasts. Most of the trekking destinations are designed to admire the beauty of the Majestic Himalayas.
Trekking is the physical adventure that needs stamina for walking multiple days. Especially in Nepal, most of the trekking routes are above 4000 meters from the sea level. Alongside, there are other amateur treks as well with beautiful views and can be accomplished within short days. If you choose to trek in the Himalayan paradise but cannot afford any such type of physical strains, Nepal still offers you a number of choices which meet the demands of a beginning trekkers or the beginners. Here are the top 10 short and easy treks of Nepal for the beginners, where you can enjoy the village walks along with beautiful nature’s paradise and enjoy your time with no fear of altitude sickness at all:
1. Panchase Trek
Panchase trek is one of the best trekking highly recommended for the beginner trekkers. It is the ideal trek to take before heading to a longer challenging trek. It lies in the Annapurna region still unbeaten trail with close views of the Himalayas, inhabited with different ethnic groups, full of wildlife experiences and surreal natural landscapes. It is an old trekking destination which does not demand any permits. Panchase trek is the pleasant enjoyable trekking on low altitude through a forest area, farmland and some small scattered settlements. Panchase hill, standing about 2500 meters above sea level, has the splendid Himalayan views of Machapuchare, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Lamjung, Gangapurna, Manaslu, Hiunchuli and other peaks. There are several viewpoints on the trail where you can enjoy the view from different perspectives. During the journey, you will walk through the settlements of mixed ethnic communities of Brahmin, Magar and Gurung showcasing the mid-hill culture, with their own rural lifestyles.
Panchase trek is wonderful trek in Nepal which begins and ends in the Pokhara, a city of lakes. It begins with boating from Phewa Lake of Pokhara. The trail follows up and down through the paddy fields, open grasslands and the lush forests. This short trekking can be finished within around 3 to 4 days and is a very easy trek. It is highly recommended for the elderly, family, beginners and travelers on budgets. Bird watching sites and the untouched remarkable locations with amazing vista are the key attractions of Panchase trekking.
Langtang trek has been the favorite trekking destination for many trekkers due to its ancient Tibetan Buddhism culture and open wide views of snowcapped mountains from many points. Last destination of Langtang trek is Kyanjin Gompa which is at the altitude of 3,817 meters which is surrounded by absolutely beautiful mighty mountains. Some of the renowned peaks of Langtang region are Langtang Ri, Langtang Lirung, Yala peak, Kyanjin Ri, Tserko Ri, Dorje Lakpa and many more which can be observed in the trail. The trail passes through the tropical forest in the beginning and as the altitude gradually increases, the way leads to the rocky area with meadows of Himalaya. It is one of the easiest trekking in Nepal. Although, the initial part of trekking has some ascents but most of the parts are easier and straight. So, it is very suitable for the beginners. Throughout the journey you can find teahouse facilities managed by the local Tamang and Sherpa community. You can learn and experience ancient Tibetan culture with local people. If you are able to acclimatize well and still have strength you can hike to Kyanjin Ri (4,300 meters), the best view point of Langtang trek. Langtang region itself falls under the Langtang National park, so it has unique bio-diversities and wild lives. On the way, you can have a close encounter with Langur monkeys, yaks, deer, thars, huge falcons, colorful lizards and many other floras and faunas. If you are lucky enough, you can also see Snow Leopard and Red Panda which is the gift of Langtang National Park.
Langtang trek has the one way trekking route. The starting point of the trek is from Syabrubesi which is also the ending point of trek. It almost takes 7 to 8 hours of long drive from Kathmandu to reach Syabrubesi. Usually 7 to 10 days of trekking, Langtang trek is different from any other trekking trails. Once you start trekking, you can experience different sorts of hospitalities from local charming people. Likewise, its unique bio-diversity has huge impact towards the attraction of travelers. Langtang trek can be the perfect introductory Himalayan journey to the beginners as well as the ]first timers in Nepal.
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is the trending as well as the leading trekking route of Nepal. This trekking lies in the Annapurna region which serves the special taste of Himalayan vista. Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is categorized as an easy trek and very suitable for all the beginner trekkers. Ghorepani is not as close to the mountains but it offers the unforgettable images of the mountain panorama. Poon Hill is the mountain viewpoint, only about an hour away from the Lower Ghorepani. There is not any single human who doesn’t love the stunning view from Poon Hill. Visitors make their way to Poon Hill very early in the morning for the breathtaking sunrise view. Poon Hill shares the skyline view of majestic mountains like Dhaulagiri range, Nilgiri, Dhampus, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare and many more other peaks. The hills surrounding Poon Hill is totally covered with rhododendron forest. The trail that goes all the way to Ghorepani is through the tropical dense forest full of rhododendron trees and some water streams along with Magar and Gurung settlements. The trekking is very pleasant and easy, only on the stairs of the Ulleri is slightly difficult which can create hard time for some beginners but not quite often. The stone stairs have more than 3,000 stone steps, one of the world’s longest stone steps.
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek begins from the Nayapul which is around 2 to 3 hours of drive from Pokhara. Leaving Nayapul, you will follow the dirt trail leading to the entry of Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail passes through some famous lodging areas like Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani and Ghandruk. This trekking is also famous as sunrise hiking due to its magnificent sunrise view. The trek ends in the Ghandruk village of Gurung ethnic community. Ghandruk is also the central attraction of this trek. This is a very good opportunity for anyone to learn the local culture, tradition, festival and lifestyle of this wonderful village. You can also make a short visit to the village museum. Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can provide you one of the most wonderful lifetime experiences which you cannot ever forget.
Mohare Danda trek takes you to the untouched and peaceful viewpoint of the Annapurna region. This is a newly introduced trekking route aiming for the sustainable ecotourism in Nepal. So, it is also known as ‘Eco Community Lodge Trek’. The main purpose of the initiation of this concept is to uplift the lifestyle of local people. Mohare Danda is the alternative choice for the Poon Hill as well. It is just few kilometers away from the Poon Hill but has different and unique route. The trail is similar and easy too which means it is the perfect choice for the beginner trekkers. Mohare Danda stands at the elevation of 3300 meters. It shares the closest view of Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri range. Also the view of sunrise and sunset still remains one of the best. For sure, off beaten trail has surprisingly magnificent view. This short trekking offers you the unlimited experiences of the culture and nature. The main attraction of the trek is to interact with the local people of Magar ethnic community also supporting village tourism. There are multiple homestays and community lodges where you can enjoy your time of staying by sharing culture and living their local lives with friendly inhabitants.
Mohare Danda trek is the off beaten trail in Annapurna region. However, it can be easily accessed. The journey begins with the 3 to 4 hours of drive from Pokhara to Galeshwor then trekking to Bans Kharka. The trail passes through the lap of hills, forest covered with rhododendron, oak, bamboo and pine, through some rivers and streams with a magnificent view of landscapes. Mohare Danda trek has almost everything that Nepal has to offer. On the way you can visit organic farm school in Nangi. When you reach Mohare ridge, you can enjoy sunset view at the end of the day and the next day in the very morning the mesmerizing first light of the day. The trek ends in the Nayapul via Deurali. If you want to extent extra days or spend more days in the Himalaya, you can stay in Ghandruk village en route.
The most popular Mustang is also a part of Annapurna region. It is the largest protected bio-diversity area of Nepal by Annapurna Conservation Area Project. It has different desertified landscapes with ancient Tibetan history. It is believed that Mustang has had long past historical and cultural relationship with Tibet. Similar to other trekking areas, Mustang has beautiful Himalayan views additionally with barren dry land landscapes. It is different than any other trekking routes.
Lower Mustang trek is specially designed for the short interval of time i.e. 3 to 6 days, and due to its moderate elevation and easy route, it is highly recommended for the beginners. Altitude of trekking area is not so high and the trekking route is a piece of cake for anyone. This is a short trek but has a multiple of activities you can do in Lower Mustang. Marpha is an ancient village of Mustang which is very famous for fresh apples. Also, you can have a short visit in the apple gardens. Kagbeni is another main highlight of the trek and gateway to Upper Mustang. You can visit King’s palace of 100 rooms, 800 years old red Sakya Gompa. The trail leads to the Muktinath, one of the largest touristic spot. This place is very famous for the Muktinath Temple, which has one hundred and eight waterspouts. There are many Buddhist monasteries and gompas in Muktinath. Everyday thousands of Hindu and Buddhist devotees visit Muktinath for religious purposes. No one should miss the gorgeous Himalayan views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho, Manaslu, Nilgiri and many more peaks with Kali Gandaki River flowing deep between the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, making it the deepest gorge in the world.
There are two options to reach Lower Mustang. One is by a long drive from Pokhara and other one is by flight to Jomsom. Most of the travelers choose flight due to time-saving and the convenience. There is also road facility all the way to Muktinath. Throughout the journey, enjoy every possible views that Lower Mustang can offer because every view is priceless at the end of the day. Finally, if you take a vehicle don’t miss to take a bath in the natural hot springs of Tatopani.
6. The Tamang Heritage Trail Trek
Tamang Heritage Trail lies in Langtang region and on the northern part of the Kathmandu valley. Tamang heritage trail trekking is a community based trekking of well-preserved indigenous Tamang culture and people similar to Tibetans. The Tamang people originally came from Tibet to trade horses about hundred of years ago. They got settled in hilly region of Nepal among which Tamang heritage trail is one of them. It is the best trekking combination of simple trail, beautiful landscape, snowcapped mountains and the ancient villages. Throughout the journey, you will be rewarded with the matchless hospitality of Tamang people and the amazing view of mighty Himalayas. You can enjoy the spectacular view of Ganesh Himal, Langtang range and Gosaikunda range. Local Tamang people are the warmest, most cheerful and welcoming people of Nepal. This trek combines the picturesque scenery and the healing bathing in hot spring. The trail welcomes all you with the beautiful landscapes of alpine terrains, flat meadows and rhododendron forests.
The journey of Tamang heritage trail begins with the scenic long drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi which almost takes 7 to 8 hours. The next in the route is Gatlang where you can observe the first glimpse of Ganesh Himal and Langtang Lirung. On the way you pass through many Buddhist chortens and mani walls. The next day stop is Tatopani, known as ‘which means hot water’, where you can enjoy the healing hot bath in hot spring. En route, you can enjoy panoramic views of hills in the vicinity of luring snow Himalaya. Every village or camp of this trekking is filled up with the Tamang people. During the end of the trek, the last stop is Bhriddim. This village is filled with 43 houses providing homestay service in the whole village. This is the best opportunity to closely observe the culture and lifestyle of Tamang people. Following the trail by Bhote Koshi River leads to Syabrubesi where the trek ends. Getting wondrous hospitality of Tamang people, enjoying the beautiful scenario of old monasteries, walking through an easy trail along with the panoramic views of Langtang ranges can be the best trek that Nepal offers.
The Royal trek is one of the shortest and easiest treks of Nepal. It is a less traveled trail of Annapurna region, north of Pokhara valley. The Royal trek got its name after Prince Charles and his 90 men explored the route on early 1980’s. It is also known as the ‘Skyline Trek’. This trekking provides best opportunity for relevant cultural village life experiences. The easy uphill walking offers the view of mountain ranges of Annapurna massif including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III and Annapurna south, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Langtang, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Lamjung Himal passing through terraced farming fields, lakes and settlements of Magar and Gurung ethnic people. This trail has less crowds and still unknown to many travelers. But this is the best option for the peace seekers and those who need private treks of their own. Due to its low elevation and painless trail, it is highly recommended for the beginners. The trek takes about 4 to 5 days to complete. It does not require any technical knowledge and not fear of any altitude sickness.
The royal trek starts from the Pokhara city, from where you can take bus to Kalikasthan. The trail goes gradually through the paddy fields. Trekking below the lap of Annapurna range is overwhelming. The best part of the trek is that you can explore the untouched and tranquil lakes like Rupa Lake and Begnas Lake. You can enjoy boating in Begnas Lake too. This short trek is enough to experience pretty much everything about Nepal. The last stop of trekking is Chisopani, where you can get a chance to stay with locals and enjoy quality time with them.
8. Helambu Trek
Helambu trek is one the closest treks from Kathmandu valley. Despite being close to the capital city of Nepal, it is still unspotted. This trekking route of Langtang region has specialty of being unique; offering journey through rhododendron and bamboo forests, beautiful waterfalls and the snowcapped Himalayan landscapes. The local inhabitants of the Langtang region as well as Helambu people follows the Tibetan culture. This is a less busy trekking route in comparison to other routes. The trail passes through the Tamang and Sherpa villages and many Buddhist monasteries. The view of mountain is stunning and unforgettable that includes Langtang range, Manaslu, Ganesh himal, Rolwaling and Gauri Shankar. Most of the people from Helambu follow Buddhism so people around there are warm, welcoming and cheerful. This is one of the easiest and effortless trekking that run throughout the year. Helambu trekking is an ideal choice for the beginners. Some attractions for the travelers can be the statue of Guru Rinpoche, Sakyamuni, Chenrezig.
A week long trekking starts with an hour of drive to Sundarijal. The trail passes through the forest of Shivapuri National Park. The trail takes you to the Shivapuri watershed and unique habitats of wildlife and birds. And the Helambu trek ends in the Melamchi Bazaar of Helambu region. This trek is comparatively easier one with low elevation offering warm temperature. Certainly, trek to Helambu helps any beginners to escape to the adventure mixed with nature and culture.
9. Sikles Village Trek
Sikles village trek is another perfect destination for the beginners around Annapurna region. This is a vintage village of Gurung people with well-preserved culture, tradition, religion and beliefs. Sikles village trekking can be an ideal choice for anyone because of the beautiful mountain landscapes, rocky terrains and the rich cultural habitats. You can enjoy everyday walking through green forest while breathing fresh air. Sikles village is the village of Gurung ethnic people, also the second largest Gurung village of Nepal. So it is also known as ‘Sikles Gurung Cultural Heritage’. In the village, you can learn daily lifestyles of Gurung people and interact with them. Recently, due to the increasing flow of visitors the community organizes cultural program showing their rich cultures and traditions. Save your stamina and energy to dance in Gurung songs with them. This village shares one of the most majestic mountain views of Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. Sikles trek is the short trek of 4 to 5 days suitable for any kinds of travelers while they can also enjoy several days in Sikles village experiencing the local lives, learning and producing handicrafts and doing a lot more sightseeing.
Sikles village is easily accessible from Pokhara. You can drive to Lambagar and start trekking to Sikles via Chansu. It takes a couple of days to reach Sikles village. After spending quality time at Sikles, the trail leads to the Ghale Kharka passing through some villages Bhaisi Kharka and Diprang. From Ghale Kharka, you can take a bus back to Pokhara.
10. Pikey Peak Trek
Pikey peak trek is a recently introduced trekking route in the Solu region of Nepal which provides the fascinating views of the mountains. The name Pikey is derived from the Sherpa clan deity which represents the sky over the nature. This newly opened trekking route is less preferred since they don’t know but you can enjoy the best panoramic views of the Mount Everest with less crowd. Pikey peak has the unspoiled view that only the lucky ones has been able to admire so far. You can enjoy the outstanding view of mountains namely Mt Everest, Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Makalu, Gauri Shankar, Annapurna massif, Mt Lhotse, Mt Thamserku and many more. It is one of the best scenic short trekking of Nepal. Apart from the majestic views, you can also discover the Sherpa culture and lifestyle of Solukhumbu region. Interacting with people as you pass through many villages will help to learn more about them. Moreover, you can see many monasteries and stupas on the way. Plus, walking through the lush valleys and green forests with the amazing views, it is one of the best trekking experiences. Even Sir Edmund Hillary stated that it was his favorite spot to enjoy Mt Everest.
Pikey peak trekking is a short trekking which starts with the short scenic flight above the Himalaya of the Solukhumbu region. Then the trail passes through the settlements and rhododendron forest until it gets to the Pikey Danda. The spectacular mountainous view will follow you throughout the journey. Pikey Danda has the most spectacular sunrise and sunset views. This the best short trekking near Kathmandu valley to admire the Mt Everest. If you are short in time but still want to encounter Mt Everest this is the best trekking to recommend for you. Trekking can be completed in a week and there is no doubt that Pikey peak trekking will make you happy in every possible ways.
.jpg "Visa Card")
