Going trekking in Nepal? Let’s help you with a snapshot overview of what’s likely the twelve best treks in Nepal. At least, they are currently the most popular treks in Nepal, based on number of trekkers.
Every year Nepal attracts +200,000 trekkers. That also means that every year +200,000 people are faced with the hard choice of selecting which trekking destination to explore in Nepal. Let’s face it – this is not an easy choice.
How odd it may sound the decision of choosing your favorite trek might actually be easier made in your home country (likely with proper internet connection also…) than in the bustling trekking and tourist area, Thamel, where hundreds of trekking agencies inevitably will offer you different opinions as to which trek is the best trek in Nepal.
Worst case, some opinions offered by local trekking agencies might be more profit driven than anything else. Best case, you’ll receive good but likely different pieces of advice from various prudent trekking companies in Kathmandu. Because which trek is actually the best in Nepal?
While some may believe there’s an ultimate answer to that question it does literally come down to your own personal trekking preferences. Let us exemplify with a few relevant aspects of trekking which you need to consider, before being able to zoom in on THE best trek in Nepal, for you personally:
- What level of trekking difficulty are you seeking?
- How many days do you have available for trekking in Nepal?
- Looking for a remote trekking destination, or, will a touristy one be okay as well?
- Are you a budget traveler or is price less relevant for you?
- During which season(s) are you trekking in Nepal? (some treks are not recommended during the monsoon and winter season)
- Looking for remote and hard camping treks (also sometimes named ‘adventure treks’) or the simpler guesthouse treks?
- Are you alone, or with someone? Some treks in Nepal have Restricted Permits and hence requires a minimum of two people, and the company of a Nepali guide or porter.
Below we’re listing the currently 12 most popular trekking destinations in Nepal taking into account the above mentioned trekking parameters, a 3-liner sales pitch, high and low-lights, and finally its Trek Facts.
Hopefully this best treks in Nepal crash-course will assist you further with selecting your favorite trekking destination.
1. EVEREST BASE CAMP – 12/13 days, 25,000 trekkers/year
Great trekking terrain! You’ll stand face-to-face with the world’s highest mountain – Mountain Everest (8,850 m), and see multiple other majestic peaks. You’ll also meet the Sherpa people, renowned for the climbing skills. In short, fantastic trekking experience.
Highlights
- Stand face-to-face with Mt. Everest and experience Everest Base Camp itself.
- Kala Patthar at 5,600 meters, a vantage point providing fantastic views of majestic peaks such as Nuptse, Lhotse, and Mount Everest
- Great trekking trail and excellent mountain landscapes
Lowlight
- You’ll trek up and down on more or less the same trail.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 3 – Medium difficulty
- Remoteness: Not Remote (due to the number of trekkers)
- Pricing: Medium (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: No.
- Max elevation: 5,600 m, Kala Patthar
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes.
⇒ Compare prices for Everest Base Camp or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for Everest Base Camp
2. ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT – 13/15 days, Annapurna Region: +100,000 trekkers/year
Good trekking terrain. Great Himalayan scenery. Comfortable trek with lots of tea-houses. In recentyears road building has taken place along some parts of the trek, unfortunately decreasing the overall trekking experience.
Highlights
- Crossing the world’s widest pass – the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meter
- Diverse trekking terrain as a result of high difference in altitudes – varying from 760 m to 5,416 m
- Developed trek giving a high degree of comfort
Lowlight
- Road building next to the trail at some parts of the trek.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 3 – Medium Difficulty
- Remoteness: Not Remote (due to the number of trekkers)
- Pricing: Cheap (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: No.
- Max elevation: 5,416 m, Thorong La Pass
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes.
⇒ Compare prices for Annapurna Circuit or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for Annapurna Circuit
3. ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP – 9/11 days, Annapurna Region: +100,000 trekkers/year
Annapurna Base Camp (4,320m) will allow you to stand face-to-face with the world’s most dangerous mountain to Climb (not trek…) – Annapurna I (8.091 m). Only having 10 days for trekking this trek is without doubt a great option.
Highlights
- An authentic and real trekking experience, considering the rather short trekking duration.
- Great trail and landscape, the closer you get to Annapurna Base Camp.
- In close proximity to the city Pokhara, also worthwhile exploring after the trek.
Lowlight
- The trail has quite a few stairs
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 2 – Moderate
- Remoteness: Not Remote
- Pricing: Cheap (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: No.
- Max elevation: 4,320 m, Annapurna Base Camp
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): No. Normally too much snow. Risk of avalanches.
⇒ Compare prices for Annapurna Base Camp or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for Annapurna Base Camp
4. POONHILL TREK – 4/7 days, Annapurna Region: +100,000 trekkers/year
Poonhill (3,210 m) offers great views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain Ranges. It’s a great trek for a sneak-peak into the trekking world. Highly recommended if only a few days available for trekking in Nepal.
Highlights
- Sunrise atop Poonhill with a fantastic panoramic view of the Himalayas
- Cultural trek, especially Ghandruk, an antique and culturally rich village
- In close proximity to the city Pokhara, also worthwhile exploring after the trek.
Lowlight
- The trail has quite a few stairs
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level1/2 – Easy to Moderate difficulty
- Remoteness: Not Remote
- Pricing: Cheap (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: No.
- Max elevation: 3,210 m, Poonhill
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes.
⇒ Compare prices for the Poonhill Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Poonhill trek
5. LANGTANG TREK – 7-13 days, 9,000 trekkers/year
The best trek in Nepal, if only having 7-8 days available. Situated in the North towards Tibet. Langtang is a good trek offering cultural insights such as monasteries, local villages, and an opportunity to select and hike you own preferred 4,984 m peak.
Highlights
- Reaching atop Tserko Peak at an altitude of 4,984 m.
- A 100% authentic trekking experience, even if only going for 7 days!
- A culturally rich trek highly influenced by Tibetan traditions.
Lowlight
- The trail is almost the same – up and down.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 3 – Moderate difficulty
- Remoteness: Not Remote-Remote
- Pricing: Cheap (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: No.
- Max elevation: 4,984m, Tserko Ri
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes.
⇒ Compare prices for the Langtang Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Langtang Trek
6. MANASLU TREK – 14 days, 6,700 trekkers/year
The Manaslu trek officially opened for trekking in the early 90s, a cutural trek par excellence, and without a doubt one of the best treks in Nepal. An appropriate name might be ‘Anaslu’ as this trek is likely to take over the popularity of the infamous Annapurna Circuit trek. Highly recommended.
Highlights
- The day of crossing the Larke Pass – a day of challenge and full adventure!
- The entire trail – diverse, remote, and secluded, enriched by very different topography as a result of varying altitudes – 600 m to 5,135 m. You’ll walk in a circuit and hence the trail will keep on changing, until its end.
- The cosy village of Samagaun from where you’ll also visit Manaslu Base Camp.
Lowlight
- The word has spread that Manaslu is indeed one of Nepal’s best treks. Accommodation may be therefore be scarce, especially during high season – Oct and Mar-April.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 4 – Hard
- Remoteness: Remote
- Pricing: Medium (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November.
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: Yes. You have to be minimum 2 trekkers and accompanied by a Nepali Guide or Porter.
- Max elevation: 5,115m, Larke Pass
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): On and off, but mostly Yes. The obstacle is the day of crossing the Larke Pass at an altitude of 5,135 m.
⇒ Compare prices for the Manaslu Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Manaslu Trek
7. EVEREST BASE CAMP 3 PASSES TREK – 16/18 days, 1,800 trekkers/year
Looking for an adventure of a lifetime? This is the ultimate Everest quest. It is a long and challenging trek with 4 passes to climb. ALL efforts are, however, rewarded by stunning peaks, pristine nature, and excellent trails.
Highlights
- Crossing each of the 3 passes is a challenge, and a great adventure. Kong Ma La represents the biggest challenge of the 3 passes.
- Fantastic trekking trail – remote, diverse and secluded. You’ll be walking in a circuit so the trail will just keep on changing.
- Crossing Himalayas’ widest glacier – the Ngozumba Glacier – an exciting trespassing.
Lowlight
- Good question. We’re in doubt ourselves if there is one!
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 4 – Hard
- Remoteness: Very Remote
- Pricing: Medium (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November.
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: No.
- Max elevation: 5,540m, Kong Ma La Pass
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): No. The 3 passes are not passable during Winter.
⇒ Compare prices for the Everest Base Camp 3 Passes Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Everest Base Camp 3 Passes Trek
8. GOKYO LAKES TREK – 10/12 days, 1,000 trekkers/year
Situated just west of the Everest Base Camp trek the Gokyo trek is a great alternative if looking for fewer tourists and more remote nature. The five Emerald Lakes together with majestic mountain peaks is at the core of this trek.
Highlights
- The cozy and beautiful village of Gokyo. If possible, spend an extra day there!
- The 5 emerald green lakes of the Gokyo region.
- Gokyo Ri – a peak and vantage point providing the best panoramic view of the Himalayas! (compared with all other treks in Nepal)
Lowlight
- Unless also crossing the Renjo La Pass, it’s almost the same trail up and down.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 3 – Medium difficulty
- Remoteness: Remote
- Pricing: Medium (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: No.
- Max elevation: 5,357m, Gokyo Ri
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes.
⇒ Compare prices for the Gokyo trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Gokyo Trek
9. UPPER MUSTANG TREK – 14 days, 4,300 trekkers/year
Mustang, a former Himalayan Kingdom, is considered a last bastion of Tibetan culture. An otherwise traditional camping trek which is now available via conveniently spaced guesthouses. A great option if looking for unique Tibetan culture together with beautiful landscapes. Recommended!
Highlights
- The Mustang area’s capital city – Lo Manthang
- Treeless and barren landscapes
- A journey full of cultural inputs and Tibetan traditions
Lowlight
- Relentless afternoon winds can be a challenge.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 3,4 – Medium-Hard
- Remoteness: Very Remote
- Pricing: High (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Guesthouses & Lodges
- Restricted Permits: Yes. You have to be minimum 2 trekkers and accompanied by a Nepali Guide or Porter. The Restricted Permit for Upper Mustang costs USD 500 for up to 10 days and USD 50 for each day hereafter.
- Max elevation: 3,810 m, Dhakmar
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Yes.
⇒ Compare prices for the Upper Mustang Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Upper Mustang trek
10. UPPER DOLPO TREK – 21/22 days , 1,400 trekkers/year
It’s a hidden gem filled with cultural impressions – Tibetan style villages, barren landscapes, mountain peaks, and fertile rice terraces. It’s expensive but also fantastic. The mystique and uniqueness of the Upper Dolpo region was manifested by Peter Matthiessen in ‘The Snow Leopard’ written in 1979.
Highlights
- The secluded Shey Phoksundo lake and the Shey Gomba monasteries
- High and secluded Himalayan valleys, resembling the Tibetan plateau
- Superb view of the Kanjirowa Himal mountain
Lowlight
- It’s a very remote area and as a result you will spend up to 4 days travelling to and from the trek, having Kathmandu as a starting point.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 3 – Medium difficulty
- Remoteness: Very Remote
- Pricing: High (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Accommodation type: Camping
- Restricted Permits: Yes. You have to be minimum 2 trekkers and accompanied by a Nepali Guide or Porter. The Restricted Permit for Upper Dolpo costs USD 500 for up to 10 days and USD 50 for each day hereafter.
- Max elevation: 5,250 m, Kang La Pass
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Not advisable. Too remote and too cold. Crossing the Kang La Pass is likely not possible.
⇒ Compare prices for the Upper Dolpo Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Upper Dolpo Trek
11. KANCHENJUNGA – 20 days, 1,010 trekkers/year
Camping adventure trek of a life time. You’ll be visiting one of the most rural regions in Nepal, surrounded by absolute pristine nature. It’s a hard and long trek and should only be done by rather fit trekkers. Go there!
Highlights
- The day of crossing the Lapsang La Pass at an altitide of 5,160 m
- Great trekking trail, in a very secluded area of the Himalayas
- Splendid views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Makalu, the world’s 3rd and 5th highest mountains in the world, respectively.
Lowlight
- Transportation to and from the Kanchenjunga trek may take up to 3-4 full days.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 4 out of 5 – Hard
- Remoteness: Very Remote
- Pricing: High (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November. Not recommended during winter
- Accommodation type: Camping
- Restricted Permits: Yes. You have to be minimum 2 trekkers and accompanied by a Nepali Guide or Porter. The Restricted Permit for Kanchejunga costs US$ 10 per person per week.
- Max elevation: 5,160 m, Lapsang Pass
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Not advisable. Too cold and too remote.
⇒ Compare prices for the Kanchenjunga Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Kanchenjunga Trek
12. MAKALU BASE CAMP – 17 days, 1,500 trekkers/year
Mt. Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world, presents you with challenging trails and unspoiled nature. Do not expect to meet other trekkers but do expect 100% communion with nature. A trek for the fit and adventurous.
Highlights
- Unspoiled trails and landscapes during the entire trek.
- Stunning mountain scenery, inter alia the lofty vantage point Shersong ridge at 5,250 m
- 100% authentic trekking in terms of self-sufficiency and and self-equipped
Lowlight
- It’s the same trail up and down.
Trek Facts
- Trekking Difficulty: Level 4 out of 5 – Hard
- Remoteness: Very Remote
- Pricing: High (#USD spent/day)
- Best Season: March-May and October-November. Not recommended during winter
- Accommodation type: Camping
- Restricted Permits: Yes. You have to be minimum 2 trekkers and accompanied by a Nepali Guide or Porter. The Restricted Permit for Makalu Base Camp costs US$ 10 per person for the first four weeks. After four weeks US$ 20 per person.
- Max elevation: 5,250 m, Shersong ridge
- Accessible during Winter (Dec-Jan): Not advisable. Too cold and too remote.
⇒ Compare prices for the Makalu Base Camp Trek or Get 5 Free Trekking Offers for the Makalu Base Camp Trek
The above article is based on thorough research, people on the treks, and contains the latest information.
what an amazing and interesting website, thanks to share your beautiful post.
Excellent information. Really Himalaya is a great place to visit. Lovely shots and a fantastic narration.
what is Trekking Difficulty: Hard? vs Moderate?
what makes a trek Hard?
I’m asking because I think I’m in good shape but I don’t want to be overwhelmed by the difficulty. I also don’t want to make it too easy on myself.
Hi Marta,
Hard implies longer days, more up hill, and generally a longer trek. That said, if you are okay fit and can walk up to 8 hours a day then you have nothing to fear :).
We hope above was helpful.
Best,
Jane
Customer Care
Bookmundi
Trekking is all about walking. If you are capable of walk on altitudes which differs from place to place, you will enjoy the trek.
Greetings…. thank you for sharing all this wonderful information. I ha e been quite fascinated by the mustang trek. This will be my first visit to Nepal, but I love being in remote areas and in contact with more untouched destinations and culture. Do you thing that this trek would be good first visit to Nepal ? Thank you
Hi Howard
The Mustang trek is definitely great. It is more expensive as the trekking permits are expensive, and you also need to be 2 people. You can check out our group tours here if you wish to join a group tour for Upper Mustang: https://www.bookmundi.com/upper-mustang-trek/d13-bm?grouptours=1
If you haven’t been to Nepal before there are many other great treks though. Personally, I would highly recommend both the EBC and Gokyo trek (the combined trek) and the Manaslu trek. These are both very good as well.
Upper Mustang has barren landscapes with mountains looming in the background. EBC and Gokyo has great mountain landscapes. The Manaslu starts in low altitude with lush green forest and as you ascend higher the landscapes gets ever more mountain-alike.
I hope above helped 🙂
Best
Bookmundi
Mainly the altitude sickness makes a trek hard. Or else its cool No problem amigo
For best and cheap travels like 21 days Kanchenjunga south base camp trek, Island peak climbing 6119m
plz visit Bookmundi, it’s a great site.
Thanks for the kind comments Jawane.
Really informative about Nepal Himalaya thanks bookmundi.com it is supporting to promote Nepal tourism
Much appreciate. Good information about Nepal and Trekking in Himalaya .
Thank you bookmundi.com
If your are looking for varieties of trips and great tour packages, then indeed Bookmundi is a great place to visit! Well done.
Hello All,
I m planning to start AC from 27 september. I need some advices and suggestions;
* Do I need to go to Kathmandu or Pokhara is fine… As I see Besisahar is almost located at the same distance from both the cities.
* Also… Is september 27-28 little early. I read somewhere that if one starts lil early, there will be comparatively less crowd on the trails.
* Is the whole classic route worth walking now… Besisahar to Ghorepani?
* Which NATTs are good and worth the effort and time invested?
Dear Sushil,
Thanks for your enquiries. Please find answers to your questions below:
1. You can go both from Pokhara and Kathmandu directly to Besisahar/Bhulbhule. If you are in Pokhara, going directly to Besisahar is fine.
2. 27-28 Sep is the beginning of high season which is during October. You can therefore expect some crowd, but less compared with going in the middle of October. That said, the Annapurna Circuit is a large trekking trail so you will never feel that it’s crowded. On the contrary, you will probably appreciate it, as there will then be a few people in the guesthouses during the evenings.
3. There is some debate as to how high it is recommended to take the Jeep, pending safety etc. Normally, we recommend going up to Chame, but going all the way up to Chame is not recommended during monsoon season. Since you are coming end September it should therefore be okay to take a jeep up to Chame. Do expect some stretches with steep falls though.
I hope above answers your questions. Wish you a great trek!
you must already be through the route I guess, what you might leave out are the first couple of days on foot in the varmer climate of the valleys, could suggest to start walking from just around Tal/Karte, though the view while walking into these villages, the mountain road that leads there are very beautiful, so maybe start the walk 15 kilometers before Tal to get that mountain road as well, it is where the feeling of the AC starts building up. On the other side of the pass you may walk/take a bus directly to Jomsom, but I would suggest that you go over Kag Beni, it takes an extra day or two, but is worth the walk, beautiful villages to pass through just outside of Muktinath in the direction of KB. You could also rent a mountainbike in Muktinath and go downhill all the way to Tatopani, which is a three days bike ride, you can also walk that distance in three days, but I would advice you to take it easy and spend an evening or two in Kagbeni. If you rent a bike your luggage will be transported down to tatopani, we paid 7000 npr for that service, meaning: you get a bike in Muktinath, you get a small backback and off you go, you get your stuff in Tatopani and give back the bike…, if you decide to walk from Jomson and do the original AC instead of the short one where you fly out of Jomson…, then remember to walk the path, not the road, the road is good for driving in a bus, jeep, on a motorbike or on the mountainbikes, but not a thrilling experience on foot, as there will be a lot of traffic on the road beneath Jomson, not that much, but to much for a trekker anyway…, so stick to the path and remember to leave the road every time the path bends away. the small city of Syang is shown as a blue side trek just after jomson, again, a good way to get off the beaten dusty road. Do take all those small blue side routes, and go over Sauru and Sirkung, the path is beautiful there, but not accessible on bike, only foot…, the walk from kokhethanti to tatopani is also beautiful, but remember to walk the path, not the road, I have seen many people walk the road on that part, which is foolish. Underneath tatopani you may walk on to ghorepani/poon hill, which is also a nice trek. So in short: cut off a few days in the beginning, remember to go side trekking, dont rush through the scenery, dont rush towards the pass, do tilicho ice lake or braga ice lake or do both, better see kagbeni than relaxing in jomson, stick to the path as much as possible, avoid the road (unless you are biking downhill), do lots of breaks towards the pass, dont ruin the crossing of the pass by stressing upwards, you wont make it from thorung phedi to see the sunrise at the pass anyway, have no experiences sleeping at the high camp, therefore I wont recommend it, but people tend to sleep those extra meters higher so they can have a shorter day uphill before the downhill towards muktinath, I understand that point of view, but imagine a bad nights sleep at a higher altitude…, besides the high camp can be reached from thorung phedi within an hours walk…so what is there to win, well…the view from the high camp in the mourning, but the view is also nice if you leave thorung phedi at 5.30 or 6.30, you may leave as late as nine am, you will make it before the day ends, the walk downhill towards muktinath on the other side of the pass is hard though, several hours of downhill ruins your feet that day…, the best advice is not to see the Annapurna Circuit as an obstacle that you need to make it around as fast as possible, you are impressing nobody by stressing and when it comes to altitude sickness it hits often the fit individual who does not know how to enjoy the slow elevation. Have been there 3 times, decided to call it off the last time because I had some stomach problems round Pisang, several days of feeling down is not the way “into thin air”…, guess your trip is over by now, but because you had a good question I wanted to contribute to the chat as well… cheers!
Hi, are the paths very narrow? I have a bit of a problem with heights, but I am planning to go to Nepal and I would like to go trekking.
Thanks in advance,
Hi Suyumna,
The Annapurna Circuit has a lot of wide and good paths, but yes, there are also places with more narrow paths having steep falls. That is, however, the nature of walking in the Himalayas, I guess :).
I hope above answered your question. All the best.
Kind Regards
Rasmus
Thanks for the information
I have a problem with hights also, but did two treks in Annapurna. Also to Annapurna Basecamp. Some paths are narrow but I had no problem with it. Just relax and enjoy!
Thank you very much for the info.
PS: Your website is fantastic, thanks!!
I am interested in doing the ABC trek next year with my friends. This might sound lame but I have question with regard to the backpack. Do we do the trek with the backpack on us or do sherpas / porters help carry my backpack through the trek ?
Dear Sidd,
That’s not at all a lame question, but a very good one. In fact, you can decide yourself, as in addition to the guide who will make sure that you get on the right trail, avoid altitude sickness etc, you can also hire a porter at fairly cheap cost who can carry up to 30 kgs for you. Since an ideal backpack should not weight more than 15 kgs, in fact 13 kgs is optimal, one porter can easily be shared between two people.
I hope above answered your good question. If anything else, please do not hesitate to let us know. I would be more than happy to help you out.
Kind Regards,
Jane Andersen
Thanks Jane..I guess i will need to plan and pack with a little care 🙂
Welcome Sidd, any time. Actually, yes, do plan with care, especially if you do not hire a porter. A good rule of thump, is max 13 kgs on your back. I wish you a fantastic trekking adventure! 🙂
Hi guys, great website, thank you! One question: I heard it is not possible to do the Langtang trek at the moment still due to the consequences of the earthquake last year. Is that true? I would love to do the trek in the middle of October… Thanks a lot in advance!
Dear Nadine,
Thanks for your question. There are probably a number of rumours about the trek. It was closed for a long time after the magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck on 25th April last year. Rumours aside however, I am glad to inform you that the trekking trail is open. Be aware that in all likelihood construction can still be seen many places, as the area was hard hit at the time.
Above said, if you only have 7 days available, the Langtang trek is definitely a great option! 🙂
Kind Regards,
Jane
Yes it was not possible for long time, but after the locals effort from the valley we are able to re-conduct the Langtang trek. Now you can enjoy trekking around Langtang without facing any problems thank you.
Thank you for the fast response, Jane! Actually there arose more questions :))
1) I cannot decide between the Goyko and Langtang trek. Will the prices automatically increase in October or can I take my time to decide until I arrive in Kathmandu (9 Oct)?
2) what does “3 – medium difficulty” mean? I did some treks in Peru, Bolivia, Colombia and Bali in the last months but never more than 3 days…
3) Shall I plan days of acclimatization before a trek or do guided treks provide enough time during the trek to get used to the altitude?
Thank you so much in advance for your feedback 🙂
Hi Nadine,
No problem, would be happy to help you 🙂
Answers to your questions per the following:
1. If you have time for the Gokyo trek, I would choose that as the landscapes are more impressive in the Everest region. Please however always keep 2 buffer days in, before a potential international flight, as flights to Lukla may get delayed. Prices may indeed rise, as there may be shortage of guides. I’d therefore recommend to book the trek as soon as possible to lock-in your price, guide, and also flight tickets to the Everest region, if you end up choosing the Gokyo trek.
2. Medium basically means that you should be able to walk 6-7 hours per day, up and down. If you’re reasonably fit, and as you’ve trekked elsewhere before, don’t worry. Duration does not do much, other than make you in an even better shape. 🙂
3. Guided treks provide enough time for acclimatization. Please read more about altitude sickness, and how to avoid it, here: https://www.bookmundi.com/info/health-and-safety-while-trekking
I hope above helped Nadine 🙂
Kind Regards,
Jane
Perfectly helpful, Jane 🙂 thank you very much!
Hello! This is a great article, thank you for all the information. I am curious about the more remote treks, but see that most of them are over 20 days. Is it possible to shorten these days (eg the Makalu one) and are we able to rent tents out etc so we don’t have to take our tents all the way from the UK?
Hi,
Thanks for your question. Indeed, the remote treks are rather long, however, the Makalu Base Camp trek can be done in 15 days. Tents etc will be supplied by the local trekking agencies, including porters to carry some of the gear that is otherwise needed as you will need to bring food, cooking gears etc as well, in order to do these treks. I would advise you to go here: https://www.bookmundi.com/receive-offers/makalu-base-camp-trek-8/trekking-1 and submit a request mentioning that you would prefer an itinerary of e.g. 15 days. Qualified companies who has the capability to perform the Makalu trek will then each come back to you with an individualised itinerary, price etc. Be aware though that since these remote treks are more like small expedition treks, they’re also more expensive. For an idea about pricing, please check the following link: https://www.bookmundi.com/makalu-base-camp-trek/d8-bm
Any further questions, please do not hesitate to let me know. I would be happy to help out.
Best,
Rasmus
Very helpful for planning a trek, thanks a lot !
Hi
Visage
Thankyou for your question,.Makalu Base Camp trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations which offers an adventure of a lifetime. It offers an exceptional opportunity to explore high-altitude terrains, snow-clad landscapes and ethnic Himalayan lifestyle.Known for its rural farming villages and a diversity of flora and fauna, the area receives few trekkers due to its relative inaccessibility. The remote treks are long it takes 19 days to 22days. If you would like to planning to trek to Makalu base camp please find this link. I found this article very useful https://www.royalmountaintrekking.com/tours/makalu-base-camp-trek-19-days/
I will do the EBC trek in November and the wealth of information provided by Bookmundi is unmatched. The communication with agencies and booking process were very smooth. I am now training everyday to improve my fitness levels to avoid bad surprises in the mountain.Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
hi Richard,
Great to hear thanks! If you Planning to trek to Everest Base Camp? Here are some things that you should know . I found this blog very useful Please see the following Everest Base Camp trek
https://www.royalmountaintrekking.com/blog/
Great article! Do you think it is possible to do Annapurna Circuit in mid or late December? Are there additional risks for a relatively inexperienced trekker? Thanks
Hi Mary,
It’s perfectly possible to do the Annapurna Circuit during the middle of December, as long as you bring enough warm trekking clothes. As for the inexperience, that’s no problem at all. Risks aren’t higher for inexperienced trekkers as you will be trekking with a professional and certified guide. If you trek alone, however, the risks are invariably higher. Trekking is generally not dangerous as long as the necessary precautions are taken.
Best Regards,
Rasmus
Outstanding blog about Nepal! Very clear info about Nepal and learn so many new and amazing things. Actually, we are thinking to visit Kathmandu next year and I don’t want to miss any special places. Check out my blog too: http://travelgeekbd.com/tour-item/coxs-bazar-tour/
I have a question as well:
according to your list the following treks are
for trekkers without special permits or
the company of a trekker or guide:
gokyo trek, ebc 3 passes, ebc, langtang trek, poonhill, annapurna base camp, annapurna circuit…
Is that correct?
besides…are there other treks in Nepal that I may walk alone or together with a friend…, would love to
see a restricted zone like Upper Mustang, but I do not have the money for to hire guides/porters at the moment 🙁
three times on the AC makes me want to see other parts of Nepal as well, returning this winter,glad to see that all the listed routes:
gokyo trek, ebc 3 passes, ebc, langtang trek, poonhill, annapurna base camp, annapurna circuit
are open in that season, but are there other routes as well? and are all of these still open for solo trekkers, that is, are all your informations concerning treks updated after the earthquake and blizzards?
– kind regards JM
*porter or guide, not trekker or guide
Hi JM,
Thanks for your questions, appreciate it. First of all, yes, the above article is fully updated, also after the earthquake which struck Nepal on April 25th 2015.
As to your question regarding restricted permits, any trekking area requiring a restricted trekking permit also implies that a guide or guide porter must accompany you during the trek. Looking e.g. at Upper Mustang, then since that is a restricted trekking area you unfortunately have to be accompanied by a guide. As for all the treks which are not restricted, i.e. EBC, Gokyo trek, Langtang, Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Poonhill etc itself etc, you can do these treks solo and hence without being accompanied by a guide or porter. That said, we always recommend bringing a guide on the longer trekking routes since they know the routes, weather and trekking area much better. Thus, in case of emergency, they are normally able to make the right decisions. Also, when trekking e.g. the Gokyo and EBC trek, which is also not a restricted area, you will have to cross a glacier. Crossing that alone and for the first time is not without risks, if you’re doing it alone.
As for other routes which are also open and not restricted, I suggest to take a look at the following list as well, giving you input on some great, but shorter treks in Nepal: https://www.bookmundi.com/blog/top-6-best-short-treks-in-nepal-snapshot-overview/
The above list also includes Langtang and Poonhill, but also has some new candidates.
I hope above was helpful. Anything else, please do not hesitate to let us know. We’d be happy to help you out.
thank you for the answers, as for the phrase “trekking alone/solo” it was merely to state that my travels are neither with guides nor porters…, sometimes I hook up with others for hours/days/weeks, the dangers of trekking alone are easy to grasp, and, although I am a trekking guide myself, I would not cross a dangerous passage of a trail alone, safety first, although I have knowledge of landscapes similar to the nepali, you should never underestimate a vast and strange setting, respecting the unknown is a good rule of thumb. My income and the months of travels I do, when in Nepal leaves me with carrying the gear along myself and plan my travels by reading up on certain topics for months before arrival, at home Im testing the equipment as well…going to sleep outdoors when the first snow arrives in a couple of days. So yeahr, Im on a budget due to the character of my doing, I appreciate the informations on this site, both from your side and the information spun off of the socratic dialogue between bookmundi and its users…cheers for all, apart from that, my last stay in Nepal actually involved a lot of guides :), of sleeping outside, on beaches whilst rafting, there we slept on the beaches in the lowlands, now for my question…: how about those wild predators of Nepal, have been reading about lions and leopards in the tabloids, have not found anything in the lonely planet, nor rough guide, but are they actually a danger to be considered in the mountains, say in the zone above 2500 meters, along the trekking trails? how are the statistics for animal attacks if you are sleeping in a tent in the pine forests? Having invested in a new backpack that has the room for my tent I am considering bringing it along and would like to experience the thrill of having the stars out an evening or two whilst trekking, again, if I do go tenting I would go with somebody, but are animals something to fear? saw the footage of snow leopards from camera traps 🙂 but would be extremely lucky to see one I guess, and have even more bad luck to get eaten by one, unless the reports of missing people all put together in fact refer to leopards only ;), but any remarks on predators and camp life?
Hi Jens,
Thanks for again for the questions raised. There aren’t any lions in Nepal, only tigers. However, the tigers are only present down in the warm Terai area, not near Kathmandu or any of the trekking areas. They are also a very rare species to see, as they are nocturnal animals.
As for leopards and snow leopards, there are many leopards in Nepal, but they are afraid of humans. If you see one, you should just consider yourself very lucky, but not be afraid, as they do not pose any danger towards you, neither when you are camping in a pine forest. You can thus safely be camping in Nepal’s beautiful nature. 🙂
Kind Regards,
Jane
Really great site. I noticed a lot of the treks you left out June, July and August for best season. Is this because of the weather? I was hoping to do a medium difficulty trek in august.
Hi Eion,
Thanks, appreciate the compliment.
Yes, it’s becauae of monsoon season in Nepal which lasts from mid June to mid September. Some treks like the Manaslu trek, Annapurna Circuit and Upper Mustang are less prone when reaching around 2500 meters of altitude.
That said, you can easily trek in Nepal during that time but you need to bring a good poncho or rain jacket, and you can expect to see several leeches on the trekking trails.
Some days it’ll just rain an hour. Worst days, rain half a day.
Kind regards,
Jane
Thank you So much Bookmundi for your supporting and promoting Nepal tourism with good information
I am glad with bookmundi to help promotion Nepal tourism with lot of information from different destination thanks a lot.
There are many great adventures in India out of which Everest Base Camp is most popular one. As the trekker list is increasing every year timely booking is very must to enroll for this expedition.
The Everest Base Camp trek on the south side is one of the most popular trekking routes in the Himalayas and is visited by thousands of trekkers each year. The trek is not only scenic, but also challenging, as it gives you the perfect sense of adventure, right from the moment you land in Lukla. For years, this has been a path trodden by mountaineering greats and at the end of it, you can say you were one of the fortunate ones to follow in their footsteps.
thinking of everest 3 pass trek this year , should i deal with the crowds in October to enjoy clear weather or go in March- April and take a chance on cloudy days?
also I would want to Join a group, is it possible to have my own room at the lodges?
thanks
Dear Ezio,
March to May and late September to November, no doubt are recommended time for trekking in Nepal that includes Everest Base Camp with 3 passes trek. You can visit bookmundi.com to find fixed departure date and join with group to spend your wonderful holiday. It is possible to find room in the teahouses for single use. There are always many trekkers in the high season and they may need accommodation. Therefore, it is requested on condition of availability.
Hi, if I wanted to do the Gokyo trek and the Renjo La Pass so it was not the same route up and down. How long would it Take? And are the permits the same?
Dear Garth,
We, hereby send you Gokyo and Renjo La trek outline itinerary for your reference. It is 12 days trip which can be shorten 1 or 2 days, if necessary. It depends on your time frame.
Day 01: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding
Day 02: Phakding – Namche Bazaar
Day 03: Namche Bazaar – Fee day
Day 04: Namche Bazaar – Dole
Day 05: Dole – Machhermo
Day 06: Machheromo – Gokyo Lake
Day 07: Gokyo Lake – Gokyo Ri day hike.
Day 08: Gokyo Lake – Renjo La – Lunden
Day 09: Lunden – Thame
Day 10: Thame – Namche Bazaar
Day 11: Namche Bazaar – Lukla
Day 12: Lukla – Kathmandu
It is possible to complete trek route with same permit. You need to obtain TIMS and Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
With best regards!
Dil Pahari
Thank you very much. I sent a different email. Is it possible to email me the information again to this email.
Kind regards. Garth
Dear Garth,
Please send us your inquiry here. We are pleased to share our experience with you. We appreciate your trust on us.
With best regards!
Dil Pahari
Hello,
Is Chandrashila Trek for beginners.. I mean for first-time visitors??
Hello Jenny,
Chandrashila Trek is in India. It is not in Nepal.
ok thank you..
Hi jenny,
An ideal trek for the nature as well as adventures lovers,the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is the outstanding option at the Garhwal Himalayas.Chandrashila Trek is one of the popular treks,that can be undertaken round the year,in Garhwal Himalayas except during snowbound months of December & January.
I am hesitating between Manaslu and Gokyo-lake-everest trek, in April. I thought Gokyo would be harder, but according to your article Manaslu is the hardest one. Why is this?
Hi Nicole,
Honestly, there isn’t much difference between Manaslu and Gokyo and EBC in terms of hardness. The Manaslu trek is more remote and has less luxury lodges – that’s one of the reasons why we put added it as harder. In terms of trekking, they are more or less at the same level – Manaslu has the Larke Pass to cross which is a rather hard day and Gokyo EBC has the Cho La Pass to cross which is also a hard (but good day). Both are great treks!
Thanks for the reply!
One more question:. Many organisations take 20 days for these treks, but I would like to hike about 16 days in order to leave some spare days in KTM to visit friends, Are both treks possible to shorten or is it more easy to do that with the Manaslu trek?
Hi Nicole,
The EBC and Gokyo trek takes 15 days on average. The Manaslu trek can be done in 14 days. The Upper Mustang trek also takes 14 days, so you have plenty of time. Please see the following links:
– Manaslu – https://www.bookmundi.com/manaslu-trek/d9-bm
– EBC and Gokyo – https://www.bookmundi.com/gokyo-and-everest-base-camp/d24-bm
– Upper Mustang – https://www.bookmundi.com/upper-mustang-trek/d13-bm
I hope above helped.
Nicole, I’m planning to do the Manaslu Trek from mid April, are you still planning to go there?
Hi Gaston,
No I decided to do the Gokyo EBC trek and leave Manaslu for next time.
Thanks, this information is very useful.
However I do not understand why there are such huge differences in prices for the tekkings (Manaslu: from 900 euro to 1800 euro for almost same trek).
Hi Nicole,
The companies set their own pricing level so it’s simply a matter of the companies pricing differently. Bookmundi only works with qualified companies so you can easily book the 900 euro tours and still be assured of getting a high service level. Always check the ‘Included’ section as well where you can see exactly what’s included in each package.
I hope above clarifies.
Very clear.
I tryed to contact one of the company’s shown on your site, for further questions, but the link brings me to bookmundi, not ot the company. Why is this? Is the booking of the trekkings one by bookmundi and not with the agency?
The bookings are done with the agency. However, for the ease of user experience online, each company has a company page on Bookmundi as well. Please contact us at customerservice@bookmundi.com for further queries. Thanks 🙂
This site is extremely helpful.
I’ll be in Nepal for 22 days from mid April through to May, it will be my first time to Nepal, I’m not an experienced trekker, been trekking in Ethiopia, lived in the mountains on my gap years in America, Canada and New Zealand, but keep very active, football, gym and run lots of marathons etc. I’ve been looking at Manaslu Circuit or The Everest 3 Passes but cannot decide which one.
I’m a little concerned by the altitude, it normally take a me few days to acclimatize, I’m a low lying Londoner and also concerned about the internal flight, I read about safety issues a few years ago.
I like the sound of the Everest 3 passes, it seems a more challenging adventure, but is it a circuit?
For my travels I tend to go for the more off the beaten track type experience and struggle with mass tourism
Any advise / feedback would be amazing.
Thanks
Peter
Hi Peter,
Thanks for your compliments. We strive to make the site as good as possible so if anything is missing, please do let me know and we’ll see what we can do about it.
As for Manaslu and EBC 3 Passes – both are great and remote treks! The EBC 3 Passes is a little more adventurous as you’ll be crossing 3 passes, and will therefore get beyond 5,000 meters several times, with 3 tough days when crossing the passes. Thus, if you’re looking for adventure I’d take the 3 passes.
As for flights, yes, flights in Nepal aren’t the safest. However, it’s probably still more dangerous driving a car, comparatively. Also, road conditions in Nepal aren’t optimal due to all the hills and mountain regions so a flight to Lukla is as good as a drive to Arughat where the Manaslu trek starts. That said, if I were you, I would’t worry too much about a flight as it is seldom that something goes wrong and statistically you’ll be safe.
The EBC 3 Passes is more remote than the Manaslu trek, especially when not being on the EBC trek, which is only a small part of the EBC 3 Passes trekking route. Lastly, confirm, the EBC 3 Passes trek is a circuit route.
We hope above helped :).
Best
Bookmundi
Hi Peter,
Thanks for your compliments. We strive to make the site as good as possible so if anything is missing, please do let me know and we’ll see what we can do about it.
As for Manaslu and EBC 3 Passes – both are great and remote treks! The EBC 3 Passes is a little more adventurous as you’ll be crossing 3 passes, and will therefore get beyond 5,000 meters several times, with 3 tough days when crossing the passes. Thus, if you’re looking for adventure I’d take the 3 passes.
As for flights, yes, flights in Nepal aren’t the safest. However, it’s probably still more dangerous driving a car, comparatively. Also, road conditions in Nepal aren’t optimal due to all the hills and mountain regions so a flight to Lukla is as good as a drive to Arughat where the Manaslu trek starts. That said, if I were you, I would’t worry too much about a flight as it is seldom that something goes wrong and statistically you’ll be safe.
Lastly, EBC 3 Passes is more remote than the Manaslu trek, especially when not being on the EBC trek, which is only a small part of the EBC 3 Passes trekking route.
We hope above helped :).
Best
Bookmundi
I am reading over your shoulders, and have almost similar questions. And indeed very useful information here.
What is the EBC 3 Passes trek exactly?
Hi Nicole,
Very sorry for the belated reply – I simply missed out on your question, just saw it. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.
The EBC 3 Passes trek is a circuit trek that takes place in the Gokyo and Everest region. Alike the EBC trek is starts and ends in Lukla, the airport and main gateway to the Everest region. It’s called the EBC 3 Passes trek as you will traverse 3 high passes each above 5,000 meters, starting from East to West the Kong Ma La Pass at 5,545 m (this is the most challenging pass), the Cho La Pass at 5,420 m (leading to the Gokyo region from the Everest region), and finally the Renjo La Pass at 5,340 m, leading from the Gokyo region and down towards Namche Bazar in the Everest region again.
Some EBC 3 Passes treks also includes a small detour to EBC itself including hiking Kala Patthar and while in the Gokyo region also hiking Gokyo Ri. If you add EBC, Kalapatthar and Gokyo Ri you will then have trekked beyond 5,000 meters six times during this trek which is quite extraordinary.
I hope above clarified what the EBC 3 Passes entails Nicole.
All the best
How is it to start from Phaplu, instead of Lukla?
How often is it that people get stuck a day or more in Lukla or KTM because of the plane not being able to fly ( in April)?
Hi Nicole,
The flight to Kathmandu – Phaplu and return may have less chances of cancellation compare with Kathmandu – Lukla and return. However none cannot guarantee the weather. If the weather is bad, the flight Kathmandu – Phaplu and return cancel too.
If you can add few extra days in trekking, you can start and end trekking in Phaplu instead of Lukla. You will have chances of explore lower part Solukhumbu.
With best regards
Hi Nicole,
Normally, it has very less changes of cancellation of Kathmandu – Lukla and return flight during the month of April. But none can promise.
A fantastic summary , thank you . I have 20 days to spend in Nepal and want to do either the Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp . However I also want to see Mt Everest . What do you suggest ?
Hi Clarence, Great to hear, thanks! If you wish to do either the Annapurna Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit trek, you could always take a separate mountain flight to the Everest region per the following: https://www.bookmundi.com/kathmandu/1-hour-scenic-mt-everest-flight-4334
Alternatively, perhaps skip the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp and instead do the combined Everest and Gokyo trek – it’s a very nice and scenic trek: https://www.bookmundi.com/gokyo-and-everest-base-camp/d24-bm
I hope above helped.
Hi, Planning to do a ~10 day trek in Nepal in October’17 with my kids – 16 and 12. Both are sturdy and have done two good treks in the Garhwal Himalayas earlier. While EBC is our first preference but would like to know more about the feasibility of EBC or other options.
Hi Abhinav Goel,
We wish you a memorable family trip to Everest Base Camp. We suggest you to plan your trip for 12 days to go to Everest Base Camp. 10 days trekking to go to Everest Base Camp trek is too top. I hope can extend duration of trek in order to enjoy the beauty of landscape and excellence view.
With best regards!
Hi Abhinav,
Thanks for your question. If your kids are sturdy and have done treks before, they should have no problem with completing the Everest Base Camp trek. Please of course make sure that you take an altitude friendly itinerary. All itineraries at Bookmundi takes into account proper altitude acclimatisation. As also indicated by Dil, 10 days is unfortunately not enough for the EBC trek, if you wish to ensure proper acclimatisation. At minimum, we recommend a 12 days duration. Please be aware, however, that sometimes flight delays to/from Lukla airport can happen so we always recommend having 1-2 buffer days also. It’s most likely that there won’t be delays in Lukla so you can estimate with a 12 days duration, but delays to/from Lukla do sometimes happen.
If you only have 10 days available, another option would be to trek up the EBC trek and then fly-out by helicopter. Please see the following Everest Base Camp trek having a fly-out by helicopter: https://www.bookmundi.com/kathmandu/9-day-everest-base-camp-trek-with-chopper-return-8079
Other alternative and recommended treks which can be done in 10 days are:
– Langtang trek – 7-8 days
– Annapurna Base Camp Trek
– Poonhill trek (but then we’d recommend the ABC and Langtang trek, as you have sufficient time for those)
– Even the Annapurna Circuit trek can be done in 10 days, if you fly to/from Pokhara and from Jomsom to Pokhara (but adding those flight tickets will of course increase the costs).
We hope above was helpful.
Best,
Bookmundi
Maybe some one has asked this already, but could you give some information about doing the EBC- Gokyo trek in one direction or in the opposite direction? Is there any advantage of starting in eather direction?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Nicole
You can do the EBC and Gokyo trek in both directions, i.e. clock-wise and anti clock-wise. Doing it clock-wise, i.e. via Gokyo first is great because there is less people – so you will feel more remote and amidst nature. When you walk down, can you can walk faster as you do not have to consider altitude anymore. Thus, doing Gokyo firstly allows for more days in the trek in communion with nature, amidst fantastic nature, compared with doing the Everest firstly and then Gokyo subsequently (where you would then rush through the Gokyo trail, as you are on the way down).
The downside of doing Gokyo firstly is that acclimatisation is a bit harder as there is some altitude between a few of the guesthouse stops. However, this normally works out well so I would not worry about it. Simply, don’t walk too fast, drink enough water, eat garlic soup as it improves your acclimatisation, don’t drink alcohol, and generally eat enough food, and get a good nights sleep.
Another advantage of doing Gokyo firstly is that you will have Everest in front of you while trekking towards the Everest region.
We hope above helped Nicole. Best, Bookmundi
Very helpful! Thanks a lot Bookmundi.
Seems that the Gokyo EBC trek is my choice. I just want to know if there are enough side trips possible at the Gokyo side in case I would like more acclimatisation days.
Hi Nicole,
There is definitely a few side trips available on the way. Alternatively, if you get issues with altitude, the best way to overcome that, aside from the tips we gave yesterday, is to hike up to the next guesthouse on the route, and then back down again. Your body will then get used to higher altitudes, while you still give it time to rest at lower altitudes during your sleep. The following day, you should easily be able to hike up to the next guesthouse and stay there over night. Also, please do make use of Diamox pills as they do increase your ability to acclimatise (and they are not dangerous in any way). And please do not worry, as long as you walk slowly and follow the tips we gave you yesterday, you should be fine. 🙂
Hi there,
Wen have never been to Nepal. We love hiking. We are both in our early 60s but are both quite fit. Walk ng up to 12 hours in a day is not an issue, if necessary.
The 2 treks that appeal to me are Gokyo and Langtang.
Questions
1. Which of the 2 treks would give us a more authentic Nepal experience?
2. Which of the 2 treks would give us better scenery?
3. How big are the groups, or can we have our own guide for just the 2 of us?
4. Do we need to carry much stuff with us?
5. What are the best months of the year to do these treks?
And my name just happens to be almost the same as the trek name.
Hi,
Physical and capacity that you can walk up to 12 hours a day is seems that more than enough to walk on Gokyo Trek or Langtang Trek route.
Langtang Trek is more authentic and cultural as well as less touristic.
Gokyo Trek has better scenery in regards of high mountains views.
The group size depends on different company’s norms. We do not suggest bigger than 10 people in group. Some trekking company put up to 16 – 20 people in the group. It depends on your preference either you can trek only you two people in private group with guide or porters or you can join on group.
The best months for trekking are: March, April, May, September, October, November and December.
You have to carry warms clothes other stuffs depend on the month you trek. You need warmer clothes if you trek during cold season and less of you choose to trek in warmer months.
I hope this information will help you to plan your trip. We remain at your disposal if you need any further information.
With best regards
Dil Pahari
How do I go about booking a guide for just the 2 of us?
If we decide to go a private tour with a private guide, what is the best way of organising accommodation and food along the way?
Or we better off going with a reputable touring company?
I am leaning towards Gokyo Trek. The standard time it takes seems to be 14 days. There are some very short days. Could we do it in less time if we choose? The reason I am asking is that we did a trek in NZ recently and there was no flexibility. We had to do it in 4 days even though we could have easily done it in 3 days.
Thank you for your help so far.
Hi Goyko,
Indeed, quite funny that you’re name is that close to the Gokyo region’s :). If you’re looking for normal accommodation along the way, I think the best way is to buy a trekking package including food and accommodation (as the local companies get it cheaper than if you pay yourself on the trek). We always only recommend going with a reputable company as that often implies better communication, better accommodation, and a better guide. You can’t expect a level of guiding like e.g. in Europe, but for sure, going with a more reputable company, will give you a better guide service. Bookmundi only works with qualified operators to ensure that you get a quality tour (we’ve screened more than 250 companies and still keep on screening and evaluating). In our view, saving you 50-75 bucks to buy a cheaper tour is not worth it, when you anyway have to pay a substantial amount to go on a trek in the first place. It’s better spend a bit more then, and also get a quality experience.
The Gokyo trek can be done in 10-14 days, pending the trekking itinerary. Please see the following link showing several Gokyo tours: https://www.bookmundi.com/gokyo-trek/d7-bm
Doing the Gokyo trek in less time is not recommended, at all, since you will greatly increase the risk of altitude sickness. This will also become apparent to you once you do the trek, I think. On the way down, however, you may be able to skip one night, but then you have to wake up really early and push very hard for 13-14 hours straight.
Best
Bookmundi
Thank you for your speedy response.
I have given it more thought and it is almost certain that we will be doing it at the end of September to avoid the monsoon season. How confident can we be that there won’t be much rain at the end of September? Is this the best time of year to do it if we want as warm weather as possible? We don’t like cold at all. I understand that it will still be freezing cold at night even in late September. Are we likely to have to trek through snow at that time of year?
Also, we would like to do Gokyo/Mt Everest Base Camp combo. I assume enough companies offer this.
Regards
Goyko
Welcome. 🙂 Normally, monsoon lasts until mid-September. However, during these years with global warming the weather is more unpredictable, also in Nepal, so there are no guarantees. Personally, I’d be okay with end-September, but if you want to increase the chance of better weather mid-October has higher chances of even better weather. That said, it’s warmer in end September (where the monsoon also ought to be gone). Snow will normally be gone during end September, except for near Everest Base Camp where there will be some snow here and there. Please see our best time to visit Nepal article for more input: https://www.bookmundi.com/nepal/travel-guide/best-time-to-visit-nepal-260
The Gokyo and EBC combo is excellent, and in our view, certainly one of the best treks in Nepal. Please see the following link for more tours: https://www.bookmundi.com/gokyo-and-everest-base-camp-trek/d24-bm
This tour is one of our best sellers: https://www.bookmundi.com/kathmandu/everest-base-camp-chola-pass-gokyo-trek-288
All the best Goyko
Thank you again fro all this information. That best seller looks exactly what we want to do.
I am still confused about the temperatures. In one website I am seeing that minimum overnight temperature in October is -10 degrees C. The attachment in your response says 7 average 7 degrees C. As I said previously, we don’t like very cold and -10 degrees C is very cold for us. Which is more accurate, your attachment or the other one in your opinion.
Also, the tour provider we are thinking of offers sleeping bags amongst other things. Why do we need sleeping bags? I thought that accommodation is provided in tea houses or guest houses with proper beds.
Sorry for so many questions, but trekking in Nepal is all very new to me. I have done a lot of hiking, but not in Nepal and not for such a long period in one go.
Regards
Goyko
Hi Goyko – in some sense both these temperatures are correct understood in the way that we report the temperatures in Kathmandu. Thus, if you e.g. take the nightly temperature of 12 degrees in Kathmandu you also have to take into account the altitude. Kathmandu is located at 1300 meters. Everest Base Camp is located at roughly 5400 meters. That’s an altitude difference of 4100 meter. The temperature drops 0.5 degree per 100 meter. Thus it will be a total drop of 20.5 degrees further when taking the altitude into account, i.e. 12 degrees at Kathmandu minus a further 20.5 when at Everest Base Camp = -8.5 during nights in Everest Base Camp. This is also the reason that you’re given a proper sleeping bag. The guesthouses have only blankets, as people normally bring a sleeping bag, to make sure that you are kept warm. Beds in the guesthouses are fine – they not of excellent quality, but you can expect a good nights sleep.
I am very impressed with your post are satisfied i just open by keyword nepal trekking, and this post have the number one position on Google. Cen you give me some suggestions?
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Thank you very much for that explanation.
As much as we would love to do the trek, the cold might be a deal breaker for us. If guesthouses were heated, we wouldn’t have a problem. It is one thing to hike in cold temperatures and even sleep wiht god sleeping bag. However, being cold during the evening between the hiking and going to sleep, is what is putting us off. That is many hours being cold and uncomfortable with lots of clothes on.
Thanks again. I have enough information now and will just have to make the decisions one way or the other.
Very amazingly explained. 5 stars. 🙂
Great website and explanations!
I had a question – we are a family of birders and nature lovers and we are interested in treks that will give us the best access to birds, animals and wild flowers. I noticed that most of the treks you have listed are mountain-oriented which is great, but do you have any recommendations for someone like me who is interested in perhaps the slightly lower elevations where the flora and fauna can be explored? Thanks!
Hi Sam,
Thanks for your good question!
Below I am listing a few options available:
1. Chitwan National Park is home to many bird species and the local chitwan guides can easily take you on a bird walk inside the jungle.
2. Another option is to explore Shiva Puri National Park, located only 15 kms from Kathmandu. Once inside the park you’ll feel completely away from all the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, and the park has many bird species as well. You can e.g. stay at Shiva Puri High Cottage, if you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay.
3. Another great place for birds will be Bardia National Park. It’s a remote jungle hosting a great number o birds as well. Please see the following tour for that: https://www.bookmundi.com/kathmandu/bardia-national-park-5-days-4-nights-4308 You can easily make an enquiry with the tour operator and get them to tailor-make a tour for you.
4. Lastly, you could also explore the Poonhill trek, but there will be more birds in the national parks such as Chitwan, Bardia and Shivapuri.
We really hope above helped.
Thanks for posting your valuable thoughts with us & our readers. Please keep coming & continue commenting on this blog.
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Nice places to visit i am very excited to visit these places during my vacations or free time. Great article for those who really want a beautiful place to visit and make fun with adventure activities. thanks for sharing https://goo.gl/RcP7ab
I would like to trek to the Everest Base camp. I’ve never ‘trekked’ before. I’m in fairly good shape but I certainly don’t walk for 8 hours a day. I saw the difficulty level…How many miles/km do you walk in a day? What are the accommodations on the trail? My travel plans are open…What would be the very best time to do a trek for a novice? I will be traveling light so what kind of equipment-clothes do I need. Do I fly into Katmandu? Any additional information would be appreciated.
Hi,
Myself and my partner are coming to Nepal for the first time in April 2018. Very excited!
I have bought the lonely planet trekking book but already a bit overwhelmed with the choice of treks!
We have 21 days in total (including flights from UK). We don’t want to do Everest base camp, but would rather be away from tourists and experience more of the culture as well as still having a challenge and accomplishing some big mountains/medium-hard treks. My partner wants to rough it and camp which I’m keen to do too but also open to stay in tea-houses along the way.
Suggestions please! Top 3 hikes over 18 days…
thanks!
Namaste J 0,
sound is hearing great! we have so many still remote and forway from city and town. if you like to do more adventure and remote area . you will visit bookmundi side about lumba samba trek .its really beautiful geography ,ethic group lifestyle,culture ,nature flora and fauna and kanchenjunga and makalu himalaya range.
There are more than two thousand Trekking agency in Kathmandu. it will be difficult to choose the agency you can find the at http://www.taan.org.np/members/trek-into-thin-air-pvt-ltd-1302. we highly recommended you TAAN Registered Company.
Hi Jo,
If you are interested to trekking in off the beaten track, we suggest you following trekking area.
– Makalu Base Camp Trek
– Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
– Manaslu – Tsum Valley, which is less touristic than Everest and Manaslu but still touristic.
You can go through Bookmundi.com for further information of trekking trips and choose one of them.
With best regards!
Lumba sumba is one of most beautiful and very new trekking tril in nepal. Lumba Sumba pass 5151 m lies in-between Kanchenjunga and Makalu Barun national park. This pass offers magnificent views of mount Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, Makalu and Kanchenjunga range.
Hey Bookmundi,
My friend and I have a question. We will be traveling through India and Nepal next July and were wondering if it is possible to schedule a short trekking in Nepal.
We are staying in Pokhara for 2 nights and in Kathmandu for 3 nights, but the travel agency hasn’t really planned any trekking activities, eventhough we would like to do that.
Our question was if it is possible to go hiking near these cities in the mountains for just 1 or maybe 2 days?
Kind regards
Hey Bookmundi, my question is about the weather (cold/snow). Are there any treks that do not encounter the cold snowy atmosphere? I am interested in about 5-8 day trek.
Thanks!
Hi Bookmundi, we have already done EBC a couple of years ago and are now considering Annapurna. Just trying to get an idea of what the main difference is between the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek – other than the distance? Which one is better to do? Thanks Mary
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This is the detailed blog that I have ever read. Thanks Bookmundi for promoting Nepali Trekking Activities globally. For more: https://mountmania.com
we are a family with kids (7,12,13,18) living everyday on 3000m; kids are fit and so are we, the parents; we would like to do Himalayan trek, seeing Mt. Everest would be awesome; please advise which treks you recommend for us?
Hey Bookmundi Thank you for great information for best 12 trekking in Nepal. Nepal Tour Organizer
thanks for your good information bookmundi. its 12 best amazing trek in Nepal. any body wan’t Guide and Porter you can see there profile Your Guide yoursguide.co.uk
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Relevant post along with awesome photographs. I preferred to read this blog in comparison to others. It has got all necessary information needed to all those trekkers who pursue thrilling adventure in Nepal.
Highly recommended post to everyone.
Appreciate it for sharing your ideas.
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