Trekking in the Himalayas offers breathtaking views of towering snow-capped peaks and serene valleys, combined with the thrill of traversing rugged trails.
This adventure brings you close to nature and the unique cultures of remote mountain communities.
Trek in Himalaya is a journey into one of the world’s most stunning mountain ranges. The trails take you through lush forests and along Himalayan rivers and waterfalls.
As you climb higher, the landscape changes. You encounter steep paths, rugged terrain, and open meadows. The air becomes crisp, and towering mountain peaks come into view.
The true essence of hiking in the Himalayas is in the blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences in Nepal, India, Pakistan, and Bhutan. The Nepal Treks are one of the best ones for views as well as cultural tours. Alongside, India, Pakistan and Bhutan are equally beautiful for the Himalayan Trekking experience.
You pass through the trekking routes with remote villages where local people live close to nature. Prayer flags flutter in the wind, adding colour to the landscape.
Ancient monasteries also stand as reminders of deep spiritual traditions. For example, if you choose Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal, you get to visit even the 8th Century Monastery.
The Himalayan trails offer views of the world’s highest peaks, like Mount Everest, Annapurna, Nanga Parbat, Kanchenjunga, K2, and more.
The world's highest mountains and high mountain passes can be one of the major attractions to people when the Trek in Himalaya. Moving forward, the Himalayan Trek does not just go to the high altitude. The Himalayan Treks can start with short treks to Ghorepani Poon Hill or even the greatest treks near Kathmandu.
The list of trekking options in the Himalayas is made to suit different travellers' needs. It includes easy treks for beginners, some of the best treks in the world for experienced hikers, and short-timed treks for those with limited time.
This way, everyone can find a trek that matches their skill level and schedule.
Here are the top 8 hiking trails of the Himalayas ranging from challenging to easy:
Best for diverse landscapes and scenery
Location: Annapurna Region (Nepal)
Days Taken: 14 to 17 Days
Trekking Grade: Challenging
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the world’s classic walks. It usually starts in the town of Besisahar and ends at Pokhara. However, with roads reaching afar, the trail now starts from Dharapani.
This trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush green valleys and terraced fields to alpine forests and barren, rocky terrains.
Trekkers will encounter diverse cultural experiences as they pass through villages inhabited by different ethnic groups such as the Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali people.
One of the unique features of this trek is the breathtaking view of several towering peaks like Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), and Machapuchare (6,993 meters).
The trek reaches its highest point at Thorong La Pass, which stands at 5,416 meters above sea level.
Major landmarks along the way include the ancient village of Manang, the sacred site of Muktinath Temple, and the stunning Kali Gandaki Gorge (the World’s deepest river gorge).
The major highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is that this trek lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area. The Annapurna region is home to 1,226 species of flowering plants, 105 mammals, 518 birds, 40 reptiles and 23 amphibians.
What sets the Annapurna Circuit Trek apart from others is the incredible diversity of scenery and culture within a single trek.
Tilicho Lake is a stunning add-on to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This side trip extends the trek by around 2-3 days. Tilicho Lake is located at an altitude of 4,919 meters.
It is one of the world’s highest-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. The trek to the lake offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna mountain ranges.
The journey starts from the village of Manang. Trekkers walk through challenging and steep trails.
The trek to Tilicho Lake is more difficult than the main Annapurna Circuit. The high altitude and rugged paths make it tough.
Trekkers see beautiful turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Amazing Everest and Khumbu with Sherpas
Location: Everest Region (Nepal)
Days Taken: 12 to 15 Days
Trekking Grade: Challenging
The Everest Base Camp Trek is world-famous for its iconic trekking experience. It starts from the town of Lukla, which is reached by a short flight from Kathmandu or Manthali.
The trek takes you through the Khumbu region, home to the Sherpa people. Trekkers will pass through villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. Namche Bazaar is known as the gateway to Everest, while Tengboche has a significant ancient monastery.
The Everest Base Camp Trek also goes through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to endangered species like musk deer, wild yak, red panda, snow leopard and Himalayan black bear.
During the trek, trekkers can see some of the world's highest mountains. Mount Everest, at 8,848.86 meters, is the main highlight. Other peaks include Lhotse (8,516 meters), Nuptse (7,861 meters), and Ama Dablam (6,812 meters).
The unique experience of this trek is reaching the Everest Base Camp, where climbers prepare for their ascent of Everest. Another special experience is the view from Kala Patthar, a peak at 5,545 meters, offering stunning views of Mount Everest.
Best for remote trails through diverse terrains and traditional villages
Location: Manaslu Region (Nepal)
Days taken: 14- 16 Days
Trekking Grade: Challenging
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a journey around Mount Manaslu (8163m), the world's eighth-highest peak. The trek starts from the town of Soti Khola and covers a distance of approximately 177 - 180 KM.
Trekkers will pass through lush forests, natural hot springs, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The traditional villages along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, where houses are made with slate roofs and beautifully carved wooden windows.
The trail offers a rich cultural experience as it passes through villages inhabited by the Gurung and Tibetan communities. This trek provides a unique glimpse into their traditional lifestyles and customs.
Trekkers can see several stunning mountains along the way, including Himlung Himal (7,126 meters), and Cheo Himal (6,820 meters).
The trek reaches its highest point at the Larkya La Pass, which stands at 5,106 meters. Major landmarks include the Manaslu Base Camp, the ancient town of Samagaon, Pungyen Gompa, and the Larkya La Pass.
The only experience that makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek unique compared to other treks is its sense of remoteness and untouched natural beauty.
The trek is less crowded, offering a more peaceful and isolated adventure. However, being a restricted area in Nepal, this trekking route needs at least 2 trekkers to start the journey. The trekkers should strictly be accompanied by a trekking guide.
Best for the views of Annapurna Massif
Location: Annapurna Region (Nepal)
Days taken: 5- 14 Days (Depending upon the route)
Trekking Grade: Easy to Moderate
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route. It offers stunning mountain views and rich cultural experiences of Gurung communities.
The trek typically starts from the town of Pokhara and takes you through beautiful landscapes, including terraced fields, dense forests, natural hot springs, and traditional villages.
Trekkers can choose from more than three different routes to reach Annapurna Base Camp, making this trek diverse and flexible based on preferences and time.
Along the trek, trekkers can see some of the highest peaks in the Annapurna range. These include Machapuchhre (6,993 meters), Annapurna I (8,091 meters), and Hiunchuli (6,441 meters).
Major landmarks along the route include the charming village of Ghandruk, the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
The unique experience of this trek is reaching Annapurna Base Camp itself, located at 4,130 meters.
Annapurna Base Camp can be hiked through the various routes. The route ahead of Sinhuwa is always the same. Thus, the trail is changed for the first 2-3 days.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill is a stunning journey that combines the beauty of the Annapurna region with a scenic detour to Poon Hill.
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Ulleri and Trek to Ghorepani (2,840m | 9,317 Ft)
Day 2: Hike to Poon Hill 3,210m (10,531ft ) and Trek from Ghorepani to Chuile (1,874m | 6148ft) via Tadapani
Day 3: Trek from Chuile to Sinhuwa (2,557m | 8,389ft )
Day 4: Trek from Sinhuwa to Deurali (3,200m | 10,498ft)
Day 5: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp 4130m (13,550ft) via Machhapuchhre Base
Camp (3,700m | 12,140ft)
Day 6: Trek from ABC to Sinhuwa (3,200m | 10,498ft)
Day 7: Bamboo or Sinuwa to Jhinu Hot Spring (1,780m | 5,840ft)
Day 8: Hike down from Jhinu to Kyumi and Drive to Pokhara (822m | 2,697ft)
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Jhinu Danda is the shortest adventure through the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and Trek to Sinuwa (2,340 m | 7,677 ft)
Day 2: Trek to Deurali via Himalaya (3,200 m | 10,498 ft)
Day 3: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (4,130 m | 13,549ft)
Day 4: Trek back to Bamboo Village (2,310 m | 7,580 ft)
Day 5: Trek to Jhinu Danda Hot Spring and Drive to Pokhara
ABC via the charming village ‘Ghandruk’ is known for its traditional Gurung culture. Ghandruk is a beautiful village with stone-paved streets and offers stunning views of the mountains.
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk (1,950 m | 6,397ft)
Day 2: Trek to Sinhuwa (2,557m | 8,389ft )
Day 3: Trek to Deurali (3,200m | 10,498ft)
Day 4: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m | 13,550ft)
Day 5: Trek back to Bamboo (2,310 m | 7,580 ft)
Day 6: Trek back to Ghandruk
Day 7: Drive to Pokhara
The Annapurna Base Camp via Dhampus starts from Sarangkot or Phedi near Pokhara. The trek takes you through the traditional village of Dhampus.
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Sarangkot and trek to Dhampus (1,650m | 5413ft)
Day 2: Trek to Landruk via Pothana (1,890 m | 6,200 ft)
Day 3: Trek to Sinhuwa (2,557m | 8,389ft )
Day 4: Trek to Deurali (3,200m | 10,498ft)
Day 5: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m | 13,550ft)
Day 6: Trek back to Bamboo
Day 7: Trek to Jhinu Danda and Drive to Pokhara
Best off-the-beaten route in Annapurna with isolated Tibetan Villages
Location: Annapurna Region (Nepal)
Days Taken: 19 Days
Trekking Grade: Strenuous
Nar Phu Valley Trek stands out for its unspoiled beauty and cultural immersion. It offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure uniquely.
The trek starts from the village of Koto, near the town of Chame. This trek takes you into the restricted area of the Nar Phu Valley.
You need a special permit to enter this area. As you climb through the rugged terrain, you will see stunning views.
Some of the peaks you will see are Kanguru (6,981 meters) and Himlung Himal (7,126 meters). This remote trek is less crowded than other popular routes.
It provides an authentic experience of Tibetan culture and pristine nature.
As you travel deeper into the valley, you will pass through ancient villages like Nar and Phu. These villages have traditional stone houses and Buddhist monasteries.
The Tashi Lhakhang Monastery is a special landmark. It is built in a traditional Tibetan style, with intricate carvings and colourful paintings.
It offers breathtaking views of the mountains around it. The trek also includes crossing the high Kang La Pass at 5,306 meters.
Easiest trek to the High Himalayas
Location: Langtang Region (Nepal)
Days Taken: 10 Days
Trekking Grade: Moderate
The Langtang Valley Trek is a captivating adventure in the Langtang region. It offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
The trek starts from the village of Syabrubesi. The valley is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The trek is known for its breathtaking mountain views. Langtang Lirung, at 7,227 meters, is one of the tallest peaks you will see.
One of the major landmarks on the Langtang Valley Trek is Kyanjin Gompa. It is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery nestled in the mountains.
Another highlight is the viewpoint at Tsergo Ri. This spot offers panoramic views of the Langtang range and surrounding peaks.
The Langtang Valley trek also provides a chance to explore glaciers and yak pastures.
Another highlight is Langtang National Park which is home to endangered species. They are red panda, snow leopard, Clouded Leopard, Himalayan black bear, wild dog serow, Ghoral, and 373 species of birds.
Best for day hike around Kathmandu Valley for views of Langtang ranges, Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, and Manaslu
Location: Shivapuri National Park (Nepal)
Days Taken: 3 Days
Trekking Grade: Easy
The Sundarijal - Chisapani - Nagarkot Trek is a popular short trek near Kathmandu Valley.
The trek starts from Sundarijal, about an hour's drive from Kathmandu. This trek is perfect for families and beginners. It is not too difficult.
The trail passes through the Shivapuri National Park. In the park, you can see lush forests, waterfalls, and many birds.
As you hike, you will also pass through small villages like Mulkharka and Chisapani. These villages let you observe local Nepalese life and culture as well.
A major highlight of this trek is the village of Chisapani. Chisapani offers stunning views of the Himalayas. You can see peaks like Langtang and Ganesh Himal. Both peaks are over 7,000 meters high.
The sunrise and sunset views from Chisapani are breathtaking. The village is also a great place to rest. From Chisapani, the trek the next day continues to Nagarkot.
Nagarkot is another famous viewpoint. It is known for its panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
Another highlight of Nagarkot is that it is a popular spot for both sunrise and sunset views. The town itself is peaceful and surrounded by natural beauty.
Best for the experience of the Ladakh Region
Location: Ladakh, India
Days Taken: 8 Days
Trekking Grade: Challenging
The Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh is scenic and culturally rich in India. The trek starts from the village of Chilling, near the Indus River.
As you begin your journey, you will see barren mountains, green valleys, and flowing rivers. The trek takes you deep into the heart of Ladakh.
Here, you can experience a unique blend of Tibetan and Ladakhi cultures. Along the way, you will pass through small traditional villages. These villages have traditional mud-brick houses and Buddhist monasteries.
Trekkers on the Markha Valley Trek can see the towering peaks like Kang Yatse (6,400 meters), Stok Kangri (6,153 meters).
The main highlight is that the trail also goes through Hemis National Park. This park is home to the elusive snow leopard and other rare wildlife.
Another major highlight is that this trekking is also known as the 'tea house trek' where one can expect accommodation in parachute tents at most of the village en route.
One major landmark is the ancient Hemis Monastery. It is known for its colourful festival (Hemis Festival) and spiritual significance.
The trek also includes crossing the high-altitude Kongmaru La Pass. This pass is at 5,275 meters and offers panoramic mountain views.
Here is the list of permits and fees that one needs to obtain and pay before going for the trek in these regions:
| Trek | Designated Area | Permits | Permits Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annapurna Circuit Trek | Annapurna | ACAP and TIMS |
|
| Everest Base Camp Trek | Everest | SNP, KPLRMEP, and TIMS |
|
| Manaslu Circuit Trek | Manaslu | ACAP, TIMS. MCAP, RAP |
|
| Annapurna Base Camp Trek | Annapurna | ACAP and TIMS |
|
| Nar Phu Valley Trek | Annapurna | ACAP and TIMS, RAP |
|
| Langtang Valley Trek | Langtang | LNP and TIMS |
|
| Sundarijal-Chisapani-Nagarkot Trek | Shivapuri | TIMS and Shivapuri National Park Permit |
|
| Markha Valley Trekking | Ladakh | ILP |
|
Note:ACAP:Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
TIMS: Trekkers Information Management System
KPLRMEP: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
SNP: Sagarmatha National Park
LNP: Langtang National Park
ILP: Inner line Permits
MCAP- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
MRAP- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
RAP- Restricted Area Permit
Starting April 1, 2023, new rules require hikers to have a guide for trails in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. You now need a special TIMS card, which you can only get through a government-approved trekking agency to Trek in Himalaya of Nepal.
Himalayan Scenery Treks and Expedition has 20 years of experience guiding hikes on popular trekking routes like Mount Everest Base Camp and Annapurna. We handle permits, arrange guides, and provide gear, ensuring a smooth and safe Himalayan Trekking.
All you need to bring is your excitement to explore the Himalayas' stunning landscapes and rich culture.
