Nepal must surely be a god-gifted land with lots of scopes to lure travelers to visit the nation in flocks and swarms. The major reason for tourists who visit Nepal is for the spectacular trekking trails in the Himalayan realms. From amongst the numerous trekking packages in Nepal, not all of them are suitable for all travelers. However, there are multiple shorter duration treks that can be undertaken by people of all ages and all walks of life. The best short treks in Nepal are some of the most popular trekking holidays in some of the most remarkable locations in the country. It is a known fact that Nepal attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is also a proven fact that the majority of the visitors come and participate in either one or the other magnificent treks spread in the mountainous arena of the Himalayan territories.
Research analysts have come to a conclusion regarding the number one reason as to why trekking aficionados target Nepal. Trekking on the conventional routes has outnumbered any other reasons for visiting Nepal. Besides, a large cluster of travelers come to indulge themselves in some of the best short treks in Nepal. Here below, we have mentioned some of the most popular trekking destinations that are of shorter duration. These marvelous the best short treks in Nepal offer an extensive range of preferences to its travelers. The options include difficulty level, number of trekking days, the remoteness of the destination, travel season, travel type – group or solo, and finally, the most important one is the amount of money willing to spend.
The Best Short Treks in Nepal List
Langtang Valley Trek
is an adventurous trip for nature lovers – a splendid opportunity to be closer to the Himalayan territory. Located in the northern region of the country, the valley of glaciers, as it is known to be, lies at the southern border of Tibet. Trekking to the Langtang Valley is a feat that can be achieved in less than a week. Partially influenced by Tibetan culture, the villages of the Langtang valley comprise of extended pastures, yak farms, and a renowned cheese factory.
Some consider this destination as one of the wildest trekking destinations in Nepal owing to the diverse flora and fauna, alpine forests, mountainous farmlands, ancient monasteries and a blend of cultural diversities. The expansive views of the Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, Dorje Lakpa and many others can be savored during this groovy trek. A breathtaking hike to Kyanjin Ri rewards trekkers with awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan peaks as well as the surrounding glaciers and icefalls. The 2015 destructive earthquake in Nepal caused substantial damage to the entire region and the trekking route was closed for about a year. But now, the trails have been restored as well as the lodges and teahouses have been rebuilt, making it accessible to visitors once again.
Everest View Trek
As the name suggests, Everest View Trek is a remarkable walk that rewards travelers with amazing close-up views of the massive Everest. It is almost a mini trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal that gives a perfect picture of the mountain lifestyle. The Everest View Trek is best suitable for those trekkers who wish to see the Mt. Everest from close proximity but do not have sufficient time to reach the base camp. The fantastic walk leads travelers towards explorations of the genuine Sherpa settlements sprinkled with colorful prayer flags, chortens, and religious Mani walls.
The magnificent walk at lower elevations and not-so-challenging trails is a good moment for photographers and nature lovers. Views of other Himalayan peaks like Thamserku, Kongde, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and others are dramatic. Like other treks in the Everest region, this trek, also popularly known as the Panorama trek, is a perfect moment to encounter with the local Sherpas. Tourists will get to learn more about the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the mountain people on this trek. The visit to the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region, Tengboche monastery, and the Khumjung village is yet another extravagant experience.
Poon Hill Trek
The Poon Hill Trek is also known as the Annapurna Sunrise Trek or the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. This remarkable is best suitable for those trekkers who wish to spend about a week in the lower Annapurna region. Owing to the moderate elevations and favorable temperature conditions, people of all age groups can take up on the renowned walk in the Annapurna area. The incredible mountain views from close up distance will leave trekkers spellbound during this picturesque short trek in Nepal. In addition, traversing past the ethnic villages of the Gurung and Magar tribes in Ghorepani and Ghandruk are wonderful experiences.
The startling sights of Himalayan peaks such as Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre from Tadapani and Poon Hill are extraordinary. However, the best part of the trek is considered to be the sunset and sunrise views from Poon Hill. Throughout the trek, dense forests of rhododendron and terraced farms are common sights yet impressive. Trekkers have considered the Poon Hill Trek to offer amazing experiences of Himalayan trekking without hassles of altitude sickness. This trek can be taken up at any time of the year while taking extra vigilance during the winter months. The trails during these months could experience snowfalls thereby disrupting smooth passage.
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is yet another interesting trek on the eastern side of the Annapurna region, lesser-known to the tourists. Likewise to some other popular trekking destinations in Nepal, this fabulous trek passes through lush rhododendron forests at the lower altitudes. As a matter of fact, the Mardi Himal Trek is a spectacular off-the-beaten-path trek in the remote corners of Nepal. The tranquil valleys and the fascinating villages on the quieter side of the Annapurna along with outstanding views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli are favorite choices even of the regular hikers. The good thing about doing this trek is that the trail makes a circuit till the base camp of Mardi Himal letting trekkers return through a different trail.
The Mardi Himal Trek provides ample opportunities to a trekker to fully immerse with the local people. It also allows them to stay with them and understand their traditions and culture and enjoy their daily lifestyle and activities. The lesser traversed tracks of the trek are filled with picturesque landscapes and striking terraced fields amid prolific valleys, alpine grazing lands, a myriad of gushing streamlets, and the ubiquitous waterfalls. Trekking all round the year is perfectly fine but extra caution is required while hiking during the cold winter months as temperatures could get really low.
Tamang Heritage Trail Trek
The Tamang Heritage Trail Trek is a popular community-based trekking package in Nepal in the Langtang area. Amidst the glittering Langtang Himal and other pleasing panoramic views, it is a refreshing route with frequent encounters with the Tamang inhabitants of the Langtang area. Culturally rich in Tibetan Buddhism customs and cultures, the trekking destination is a perfect way for magnificent exploration. The remarkable heritage trek is a faultless mix of trekking in tranquil as well as wild conditions in the eco-trekking region of Nepal. This trail is often considered to be an off-the-beaten-path destination highlighted with an ancient lifestyle. The combination of quaint scenery and curative dips in the natural hot springs is something unexpected at such an isolated area.
Settlements in the Tamang Heritage Trail trek are found to be embellished with vague carvings. The local dwellers weave bamboo baskets and other handicrafts and also put it on display for a rummage sale to the tourists. Wonderful hospitality with home-stay facilities in villages of Gatlang, Thuman, and Briddim are unique experiences to take delight in. The ancient monasteries and the awesome views of Langtang and Kerung from the viewpoint at Goljung Pass are other attractions on this trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The most scenic of the treks in Nepal, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an introduction to the well-balanced and brilliant ecosystem. After the most visited EBC Trek, this trek is second to none and allows exploration of the diverse ethnic groups of people and their fascinating cultures. Bringing a traveler to the foothill of the world’s tenth highest mountain amid scenic villages and adventurous trekking trails is an exceptionally fabulous walk that an avid trekker can ask for. The villages in the trekking routes are filled with local communities belonging to the Gurung, Magar and Thakali tribes. Passing through the Ghorepani Poon Hill route or taking the Syauli Bazaar Dhampus route, it is a common route after Chhomrong.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek leads through serene landscapes and plenty of bamboo forests and alpine meadows. Trekkers have ample opportunities to take delight in the spectacular views of the picturesque mountain peaks. Reaching the base camp of Annapurna through the Machhapuchhre base camp is no less than a dream experience for every trekking enthusiast. This trek is considered to be a moderate walk which can be undertaken by any person with a strong determination to walk the rocky ridges and who maintains good physical fitness. Although spring and autumn season could be jam-packed with lots of trekkers, this elegant walking journey can also be done during other seasons when there are fewer crowds.
Rara Lake Trek
The Rara Lake Trek is a scenic adventure walk to the largest lake in Nepal. Walking through some of the most remote areas in the Karnali district of Nepal, it is an ideal short trek for travelers looking for excitement and off-road trails. The awe-inspiring Rara Lake is located in the Rara National Park at the far northwest part of Nepal in Jumla and Mugu districts. The Rara Trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then another short flight to Jumla from where the hiking part begins. During the trek, the pristine coniferous forests of blue pine, black juniper, Himalayan spruce, Himalayan cypress, and Oak surround trekkers almost throughout the walk.
The chief highlights of Rara Lake Trek are Thakuri Baba temple, the rustic terrains of trans-Himalayan mountain peaks, and the remote and traditional villages of Mugu and Jumla districts. Marveling at the spectacular scenery and surroundings in the complete wilderness with perspectives of distant mountains, trekkers return with a sense of accomplishment. While visiting the unruffled wilderness, travelers get chances to observe the ideal habitat of musk deer, black bear, leopard, Himalayan Tahr, wild boar, and various bird species. The most impressive part of trekking to Rara Lake is the trail leading through appealing villages of the Hindu Thakuri Malla and the Tibetan influenced tribes. No matter what, the walk to and from Rara National Park is a splendid experience offering miraculous views of the lofty snow-covered mountains.
Nar Phu Valley Trek
The standard Nar Phu Valley Trek normally comprises of about three weeks of trekking. However, there is a shorter version of this trek which can be accomplished in about 9 days. The shorter version of this spectacular trek can definitely be considered as one of the best short treks in Nepal. The impressive journey into the Nar Phu valley amidst off-the-beaten-trails has begun gaining popularity as a wilderness trek in Nepal. This magnificent hike leads trekkers into a twosome valley tucked between the imposing Manaslu and Annapurna regions of Nepal. Very few other trekkers are usually spotted while trekking in the Nar Phu valley. Unquestionably, the Himalayan backwoods is simply overwhelming to every traveler in this region.
The adventurous Nar Phu Valley trek offers visitors with the soaring snow-clad Himalayan peaks, peaceful Tibetan cultures, and lifestyle, plenty of alpine countrysides and high-altitude villages. There are plenty of Buddhist chortens, prayer stones, deep gorges, and ancient monasteries to encounter while trekking in this secluded corner of Nepal. Some Himalayan giants that peek out their glimpses during this spectacular walk are Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho, Himlung Himal among others. The incredible journey on the rugged trail has so much to offer to its visitors not forgetting the lofty Kang La Pass. It is a perfect walking vacation for those seeking solitude and complete tea-house trekking experience in Nepal.
Conclusion
No wonder why trekkers place Nepal probably as the greatest destination on earth. There has got to be some popular reasons for travelers flocking in massive numbers and the reasons are eminent. The pacific nature of the Nepali people and their spiritual, as well as religious beliefs, are thought to bring internal enlightenment for spiritual travelers. Trekking trails in Nepal, whether short or extended treks have their own kind of characteristic values. While most of the treks showcase amazing views of mountain ranges, there are treks where tourists get to experience typical cultures, landscapes, and indigenous people. In the above write-up, we have tried to incorporate the 8 best short treks in Nepal. However, there are some other popular treks in the mainstream trekking extending from 2 to 3 weeks or more time. These popular treks can be customized and turned into a fabulous short trek by skipping some of the side trips included in the pre-set itinerary. Some other popular treks which have not been mentioned in the list above and could possibly be potential submissions are Gosaikunda Helambu Trek, Khopra Danda Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Dhampus Trek, Kalinchowk Trek, Jomsom-Muktinath Trek, Lower Mustang Trek, Ghandruk Trek, Pikey Peak Trek, and few others.
