When you want to relax from a hectic schedule, think of opting for trekking in the Himalayas.
Yes, trekking trails to the Himalayas of Nepal. It is a wonderful choice to travel to the kingdom of the Himalayas. Nepal is always popular as a tourist destination for trekking to the beautiful Himalayan ranges. Step on Himalaya has tailored multiple packages to travel to different regions of Nepal that will surely fulfill the hunger for adventure and fun. These packages are designed in such ways that one will be enjoying the traditional Himalayan cultures and discovering the naïve lifestyles of the Sherpa people of the Himalayas. The trekking trails in the Himalayas are the best times that offer to understand the cultural differences, experience the serenity of nature, and observe the innocence of locals. Other than trekking, hiking, cultural tours, bungee jumping, white water rafting, etc. can add up to your trekking fun. Here is the list of the top ten trekking trails in the Himalayas as trekking is the most selected adventurous activity while visiting Nepal.
#1: Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days)
To conquer the Roof of the World is the greatest lifetime achievement of trekkers but it is not possible for every trekker. So Step on Himalaya has some packages to reach and enjoy the time on the lap of the Himalayas. One of the most selected packages is Everest Base Camp Trek for 14 days. This 14 day-Everest Base Camp Trek allows you to enjoy the closest proximity to Mt. Everest. The majestic views of the mighty Himalayan range like Mt. Everest, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, etc. are awe-inspiring. The trek starts with a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The flight itself is a short scenic experience that offers a glimpse of incandescent mountains. After landing at Lukla, the trekkers will walk ahead to reach their destination. We will cross the suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and the dense forests of rhododendron, pines, and firs.
Everest Base Camp Trek beguiles the trekkers with the fusion of natural beauty and the cultural aspect. The Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and gompas decorated with colorful prayer flags enhance the spiritual feeling. The Tengboche Monastery and the Khumjung Monastery is the exclusive religious place that has a pious environment. The Sagarmatha National Park has protected many endangered species of wildlife, unique floras, and faunas. The vivid complexities of nature in the stunning topography of the mountains in the Everest region are simply extraordinary. Namche Bazaar is known as the “Gateway to Everest” and also is the central hub for trade. The Tibetan and Nepalese merchants and traders do their business. Similarly, the Sherpa Culture Museum has showcased the equipment used in trekking in the past few days. There is a Hillary School (also called the Khumjung School) in the Everest region. Hike to Khumjung Valley is another thrilling spot.
Everest Base Camp Trek is the ultimate destination to achieve the goal of reaching Mt. Everest. Step on Himalaya assists you in every step to reach the Himalayas with all the facilities and safety. Your satisfaction and safety is the main priority of our team. The exhausting but adventurous walk of a lifetime to enjoy the time at Everest Base Camp is unforgettable. The vicinity of Everest Base Camp is always pursuing and inviting to come back here again to enjoy the original hidden beauty. You will never regret choosing this trek as your vacation trip. Step on Himalaya will help with all the documentation, permits, and taxes. You can prepare for the trek once you arrived at the hotel. Necessary equipment can be hired or bought at the local markets if you haven’t brought it. Making sure of every arrangement, a team of Step on Himalaya will escort you to the amazing Everest Base Camp Trek.
Booking Information: Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days)
#2: Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna literally means “the Goddess of crops”. Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most incredible treks in Nepal that follows the Trail of Kali Gandaki River to reach the high altitude of Mt. Annapurna. This challenging Annapurna circuit offers the enthralling experience of a lifetime. This trek usually is planned for 14 – 18 days but as the road's construction has been speeding up properly, now this trek can be accomplished within 8 – 9 days. The trek goes as far north as Manang Valley and ends as early as Muktinath. But if there are not any time constraints, it's better enough to explore the Annapurna Circuit adding an extra 3 – 5 days. This Annapurna Circuit trek offers the chance to explore authentic traditional villages with ancient cultures, friendly local people, and tasty Nepalese food items. The hospitality and decency of the local people give us a homely feeling.
Annapurna circuit trek is nowadays mostly chosen trek. The popularity of this Annapurna Circuit is increasing also because of the Ghorepani Poon Hill which is one of the best vantage points for the scenic views of the snowy mountain peaks. This trek not only provides the opportunity to enjoy the natural diversity but also the modest lifestyle of the local people here. The glory of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan ranges bliss this region. The trekkers will walk through the dense forests which are naturally decorated with jade foliage and amazing jovial brooks. There are temples and stupas on the way. We can feel the pious milieu. The geographical diversity of the Annapurna circuit is striking.
Thorung La Pass is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trek. The maximum elevation is 5416m. The level of difficulty of Annapurna Circuit is more challenging. Tilicho Lake is another highlight of Annapurna Circuit which is located at an altitude of 4915m. Similarly, the Kali Gandaki River of this Annapurna region is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The best season for trekking in this Annapurna Circuit is during Spring and Autumn. You can travel any time of the year, but during the winter the snowfall could be a problem resulting in low temperatures which could be harsh to the health. As fitness must be optimum to walk in the rocky trails of the Annapurna circuit, the trekker must have the capacity to walk at least 5 – 7 hours a day with a bag pack. Step on Himalaya always ahead to make sure this Annapurna Circuit trek is the finest and most amazing one.
#3: Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is famous for being the finest and short trek which is easily accessible from the Kathmandu valley. Situated in the western part of Nepal, near Pokhara Valley, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek begins aiming mainly at the mesmerizing and panoramic views of the sunrise and the sunset among the Himalayas. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, located at an altitude of 3210m, is famous with many names like “Photographer’s Paradise”, “Annapurna Sunrise Trekking”, “Annapurna Panorama Trekking”, etc. The phenomenal view of sunrise from Poon Hill is heart-pounding. This trek usually takes 4 – 5 days to wander around this Ghorepani Poon Hill area. But the surrounding here is so calm and serene; most of the travelers extend their stay to enjoy the exploration. Comparatively, this Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is easier. Even novice travelers can attempt it but should be able to walk for about 4 – 5 hours every day.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is mainly popular as the best vantage point for the Sunrise view. The other highlights of this trek are the beautiful settlements of Birethanti, Hile, Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Ghandruk, and Ulleri villages. There are gorgeous waterfalls on the way. The stunning landscapes, the terraced inclines, the paddy fields, and the dense rhododendron forests with birds chirping please the travelers from the tiring and exhausting walks. The stay in the Ghorepani Poon Hill is very comforting. You have choices to stay in the guesthouses or tea houses or do camping. The amiability of the local people here will surely comfort the stay. You can also enjoy traditional Nepalese food items or fast food items like Sandwiches, Burgers, Pizza, Noodles, etc. Meat products or non-vegetarian food items are not as recommendable as we might not get them fresh. It might hamper your health and thence the trekking.
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can be extended to reach Ghandruk village and end in Dhampus Phedi. Starting to walk from Nayapul, we will follow the trail of the river at the foothills of Mt. Annapurna. The primary inhabitants of this region are Gurungs and Magars. The lifestyle of the local people and the ancient cultures and traditions of this region of the Annapurna circuit are still untouched by modernization. The Gangapurna, the Annapurna South, the Machhapucchre, the Annapurna I, Mt. Nilgiri, etc are the mighty Himalayas that we can see from Poon Hill. That view is simply magical and eye-soothing. Every nature lover will love this place and have an outstanding memory of this trip for a lifetime. Step on Himalaya will organize the trip for you to Ghorepani Poon Hill and do all the necessary documentation. It is very important for us to look after your safety and comfort.
#4: Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered one of the most difficult treks in Nepal. Meaning of “Spirit Mountain or Ghost Mountain”, Mt. Manaslu has a legend that the kind deity stays here secretly. Manaslu Circuit Trek is an untouched trekking route that was opened for foreign trekkers only in 1991 also if you get a special trekking permit. The Manaslu region is situated in western Nepal. As the trek to the Manaslu circuit is strenuous and exhilarating, trekkers need a good physique with strong physical endurance, determination, and daring to accomplish the trek. This is the reason, only a few trekkers achieve this destination without any hindrances. The immense natural beauty and the unique geography of this Manaslu circuit simply awe-inspire the trekkers. The pure and serene environment of the Manaslu region fascinates the trekkers to repeat this trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek offers the stunning sights of Mt. Manaslu and other adjoining snowy peaks like Mt. Cheo Himal, Mt. Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Larkya Himal, Mt. Chuli, etc. The spectacular Laryka La pass is famous for the viewpoint of these aforementioned Himal. The trekkers walk through the green pastures, the unique landscapes, the beautiful hamlets, and the gorgeous waterfalls. This Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Soti Khola and ends at Syange. The blend of cultural, historical, geographical, and natural diversities attracts trekkers. Any time of the year is suitable for trekking but the most preferable time to trek here is during Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September – December) for a clear view of The Himalayas. The rocky trails and the stone-paved paths challenge the trekkers to achieve the destination and the achievement is life-worthy. One will never regret choosing this Manaslu Circuit Trek as a vacation trip in Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit was affected by the devastating earthquake in 2015. The region was restored in a short period of time as trekking was one of the major sources of income for the local people here. Agriculture is not enough for survival in this rural region. The guesthouses, lodges, and teahouses were rebuilt and the roads were reconstructed with acceleration. Manaslu Circuit is the hidden heaven at the base of the vast, mighty Himalayan range. Step on Himalaya is here now to accompany you to reveal the magical secrets of Manaslu. Though it is now open for trekking, there are still some places that are and possibly will be restricted forever to maintain their originality. The areas which can be explored with special permits offer the chance to discover the traditional lifestyle, the ancient cultures, and the pious environment of the Manaslu region. Step on Himalaya here plays the role of the manager to settle down all the arrangements to hike to Manaslu Circuit.
#5: Langtang Valley Trekking
Langtang Valley is a beautiful valley lying in the northern part of Nepal about 19 miles away from Kathmandu. Langtang Valley Trekking is nowadays one of the most preferred routes for trekking in Nepal. Due to its unique landscape and alpine weather, the trekkers are fascinated by the Langtang Valley. The famous Langtang National Park lies here in the lap of the Langtang Himal which embraces the whole Langtang valley. “Lang” means yak and “Tang” means to follow given the word “Langtang”. This trekking is another easily accessible trekking route from the capital, Kathmandu. The roads so far are pitched except in some places. The Tamangs and the Sherpas are the main inhabitants of this Langtang valley. Full of natural and cultural discrepancies, away from the buzzing Kathmandu, this trekking offers a splendid peaceful time here. Experienced or Novice trekkers can trek in this Langtang valley with a positive spirit.
Langtang Valley Trekking provides the chance to explore the valley which has a unique geographical distribution of nature. The swift rivers from the Himalayas, the huge boulders, the green pastures, the amazing meadows, the healing hot springs, the forest full of rhododendron, pine, bamboo, and the cool temperature delight the travelers. The traditional Tamang and Sherpa villages follow Buddhism. They are more influenced by the Tibetan culture as the Tibet border is a few kilometers away from the Langtang valley. Untouched by the modernization of the 21st century, this Langtang valley is very pure. The local Tamang and Sherpa people are very friendly and modest. The local Cheese factory here is very famous here. The cheese made from the milk of the yak is tasty and appealing. Kyanjin Gompa is the highest vantage point of this Langtang valley, offering the winsome sights of Mt. Dorje Lakpa, Kyanji Ri, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung Himal, Tserko Ri, etc.
Langtang Valley is god-gifted with its stunning landscapes and sublime environment. It will be righteously to call Langtang Valley the “Lake of Glaciers”.Gosainkunda, Bhairav Kunda, Parvati Kunda, etc. are the famous lakes here. Langtang Valley trekking is which is full of natural pulchritude. This valley is adorned with incandescent greeneries at the lap of the Langtang Himal. The rich Tamang Heritage Trail is another highlight of Langtang Valley. January – May, and September – December are the best months to travel. Monsoon gives wet, slippery roads and cloudy weather. Acclimatization is essential for the proper accomplishment of the forthcoming trek. Step on Himalaya assures you to have a wonderful and beguiling trip to Langtang Valley. All the necessary papers work, permits, and travel preparations will be done by the team of Step on Himalaya. Just enjoy and experience the mesmerizing Langtang Valley Trekking with the utmost comfort and safety.
#6: Everest View Trek
Wanna reach the base of Mt. Everest without hectic treks? Here is the option for you – Everest View Trek. This Everest View Trek is an exceptional package designed for those travelers who have time constraints but still want to spend some quality time in the lap of Mt. Everest. This trek offers a chance to explore the Everest region at a nearer distance. The mixture of natural and cultural diversities of the Everest region allows travelers to enjoy the unlimited beauty of the surroundings and the beautiful, small villages at the lap of snow-capped mountains. The alpine weather of the Everest region along with the awesome greeneries, the dense forests of pines, firs, and rhododendron, the gorgeous waterfalls, the dazzling rivers and glaciers, and the striking landscapes fascinate and please the travelers. Step on Himalaya prepares the trek for you to step on the enthralling wilderness of Mt. Everest and its environs.
Everest View Trek is the right option to cherish the amazing moments in this Everest Region. The trek will start with an exciting flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Hovering over the Mountains provides the sights of the mighty Himalayas like Mt. Everest, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Amadablam, etc, and the stunning geographical distribution of this region. From Lukla, we will trek towards our destination i.e. Namche Bazaar. It is the central trading hub of the Everest region for Tibetan traders. The antique crafts, the artifacts, the equipment for trekking and mountaineering, and the commodities are available here. The Tengboche Monastery, the Khumjung Monastery, and the Sherpa Museum here are other attractions of the Everest region. After reaching Namche Bazaar, we will hike up to the Everest View Hotel. From here, we can enjoy the marvelous view of the aforementioned peaks. After having lunch and spending some time, we will descend.
Everest View Trek is shorter than Everest Base Camp Trek or Everest Three High Passes or Classic Everest Base Camp Trek. But it equally lets you encounter the amazing blend of ancient customs and traditions, the Tibetan culture, and the simple lifestyle of the local Sherpa people of this Everest region. The friendliness of the local Sherpa people always comforts us during the whole trekking. This intoxicating beauty of the Everest region charms travelers to return and enjoy this exotic milieu again. So, now do the required shopping, get the bag pack and the ticket to Nepal to spend your worthy vacation time at the base of Mt. Everest. Step on Himalaya now appears here to make your dream come true. Opt for a change in your daily hectic schedule, and give yourself a chance to Step on Himalaya to assure your footsteps in the Himalayas and to feel Mt. Everest at its closest proximity.
#7: Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The voyage to Annapurna Base Camp is a rewarding attempt. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking in Nepal. The journey from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp is so exhilarating but still the most selected trek. The decision to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek by adventure seekers and nature lovers is the very correct option. The trekkers get the opportunity to experience the stunning natural and cultural diversities of the Annapurna region. The trail passes through the foothills of Mt. Annapurna and its massifs give you pleasure. The terraced fields, striking landscapes, greeneries, unique floras and faunas, the forests of rhododendron, oaks, junipers, and bamboo, and the rocky, steep trails offer splendid experiences. With the meaning of “Goddess of Harvests”, Annapurna is a female deity in Hindu culture, who never lets anyone die of starvation. There is a shrine of Goddess Annapurna located on the banks of rivers-ghats.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek lets us experience the local lifestyle of the people living in this Annapurna region. Mostly the inhabitants are Gurung, Thakali, Magar, and Manage. Their main source of income is agriculture but tourism has given them additional sources. Annapurna Conservation Area Project was launched in 1986 onwards mainly aiming to maintain the balance between the environment and socio-economic development. Pheasants like Daanfe, Kaliz, Kokilas, Monal, etc, and wildlife like Himalayan Thar, Blue Sheep, etc along with 40 species of reptiles are conserved here. The wilderness of this Annapurna region is exhausting but heart-pleasing. Autumn and Spring seasons are preferable times to attempt Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Not only the experienced ones but also the novice trekkers can dare to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. With the full-on spirit and daring thoughts, the peek into the Nepalese culture, and the walk amidst the valleys on the lap of Annapurna massifs, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is beguiling. Step on Himalaya is always ready to welcome you to Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
#8: Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang of Nepal – a boon of Nature that is a hidden treasure of Nepal. This is the old Buddhist kingdom that was a part of Gungthang, the Tibetan Kingdom until the 1830s. The Upper Mustang is also known as “Lo” meaning God. There are so many myths and stories related to Upper Mustang. There is a tale of a demon who was hunted by a Buddhist Guru Rinpoche and protected the people of Mustang. Guru Rinpoche conquered and the body parts of the demon were scattered on the blood-colored cliffs were red and a wall of prayer stones is built over the intestines of the demon. You can hear such tales as you wander around the Mustang region. They believe in the protector; a deity always has been living in the Himalayas. The local people are very devoted and the environment here is very pious.
Upper Mustang has been a desolate region of Nepal that was opened for trekking to foreigners only in 1992. There is a royal palace in Lo Manthang which was built by the Tibetan kings. The old canyons, mud-brick houses, yak caravans, and caves are the wealth of the Upper Mustang. Traversing the barren landscapes, the dainty glaciers, the high snowy peaks, and the rocky trail, we will enter the unspoiled nature of Upper Mustang. The world’s deepest gorge the Kali Gandaki River is challenging. The impressive formations at the foothills of the Dhaulagiri massif have rugged geography. To explore the Upper Mustang region, travelers usually hire Tibetan ponies for transport. The alleys here are narrow and the long walls are built on both sides. The trail actually starts from Pokhara to Jomson. Kagbeni is one of the beautiful villages on the way to Muktinath. Lo Gekar Monastery is another attraction.
The monsoon months (June – August) is the better option to travel to Upper Mustang as many residents migrate towards lower altitudes for the winter. This sometimes creates accommodation and food problems. The uniquely built walled kingdom of Upper Mustang / Lo Manthang is a lifetime tourist destination to spend a wonderful vacation. You will never regret visiting this Upper Mustang region for a holiday. Enjoying the fabulous taste of the local apple, the travelers make a remarkable travel history of life. Though some of the parts of the Upper Mustang are still restricted to visit, travelers will experience the magical feeling of being in the unique Rainshadow of the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges. Now there is the major part of Step on Himalaya to check and arrange the trip to Upper Mustang securing all the needed special permits for Upper Mustang trekking. Go for the challenge to acquire the Upper Mustang.
#9: Gokyo Ri Trek
Embarking on the Gokyo Ri Trek, the trekkers will achieve the heavenly pleasure of viewing the top 5 highest mountains in the world: Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho-Oyu, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Kanchanjunga and the turquoise glacial lakes at the foothills of these mountains. Ngozumpa Glacier is the biggest glacier situated in the lap of the Himalayas of Nepal. The sublime climate, the adventurous rocky and steep trails, the striking landscapes and meadows, and the dense forests of pine, rhododendrons, and firs amaze the trekkers. The Gokyo Ri Trek starts after landing at Lukla airport. The trekkers will ascend and descend gradually toward the destination to reach Gokyo Ri. This trek will follow the Trail of Dudh Koshi River passing through Phakding village, then Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo and finally arriving at Gokyo. Lying at an altitude of 5357m., Gokyo Ri is the most fascinating area in the Khumbu region.
Gokyo Ri Trek is another moderate type of trekking with the alluring gorges and emerald lakes and glaciers all over the Gokyo valley. The scenic grandeur of the mighty Himalayas and the Gokyo Valley lying at the foothills provides an exclusive sublime view. Also famous as “The Valley of Death”, Gokyo valley is riskier to attempt due to the ignorance of Acute Mountain Sickness the trekkers. Here comes the importance of acclimatization and leisure days in Gokyo Valley. As there is a saying, “Slow and steady wins the race”, so one must not hurry to achieve the destination without understanding the proper climate for further trekking. “Health is wealth”, hence priority should be to attain a fitness level enough to walk about 6 – 7 hours per day. March to May and October to November are the preferable months in the year to travel to Gokyo Ri. Step on Himalaya arranges all the trekking permits and TIMS for you. The itinerary is always flexible for your comfort.
#10: Three High Passes Trekking
Three High Passes Trekking is a challenging trek on its own as the name by itself speaks of high passes in the Everest Region. This Three High Passes Trekking is a complete adventurous package to explore the Everest Region at its highest. A less trodden trail leading to these High passes lets the trekkers encounter the tough and strenuous pathways in the alpine climate. The famous three High Passes are Cho La Pass (5380 m), Renjo La Pass (5388 m), and Kongma La Pass (5535 m). While attempting this trekking, we will also pass through the magnificent valleys of Imja Tse, Gokyo, Bhote Koshi, and Khumbu and 3 striking peaks of Chukung (5550m), Kalapatthar (5545m), and Gokyo Ri (5483m). Namche Bazaar is the gateway to Everest and hence, we will stay a day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and be well-prepared for further trekking to the Three High Passes of the Everest region.
Achieving the destination to reach Three High Passes is very rewarding. Undoubtedly, this trekking is the most daring attempt to embark on. The outstanding scene of the snow-capped peaks with such tranquility is the most gratifying feeling. No, any feeling is comparable to this feat. Walking on the wobbly roads, passing through the moraines, watching the beautiful waterfalls, and enjoying the pious environs of the monasteries and chortens on the way are captivating. The friendliness, simplicity, and hospitality of the local Sherpa people here in the Everest region allure the trekkers. The pure customs and traditions, the ancient Tibetan culture, and the unique lifestyle of the local Sherpa people are the assets of the Everest region. Comfort, satisfaction, and safety of the trekkers are the priority of the team Step on Himalaya. We will always make sure of no loopholes in the itineraries of Three High Passes Trekking. Any changes are heartily welcomed.
Author: Step on Himalaya
Date: 20th March, 2020