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	8 Best Trekking Routes in Nepal By Sanjib Nepal, the land of mountains, fast-flowing rivers, high hills, lakes, and different ethnic groups, is a perfect destination for trekking, mountaineering, and tours. No doubt, Nepal offers some of the world's most stunning treks. The Everest Base Camp trek, the Annapurna Base Camp trek, and the Annapurna Circuit trek are popular trekking routes in Nepal. Or actually, in the whole world. But there are other, lesser-known trails that are just as amazing. No matter if you love nature, photography, or discovering the mountains by foot: A journey through the Himalayas is one of the best ways to get to know the country. It not only allows you to get in touch with nature. It also helps to recharge the body, the mind, and the spirit in a breathtaking setting. The Himalayas in Nepal await you for a lifetime adventure. You just have to pick the trek that suits you most. Everest Base Camp Trek The Everest Base Camp trek (5,400 m) is not only the most popular but also one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. Every year, countless nature and mountain enthusiasts aim to reach the foot of the highest mountain in the world. On this trek, you experience the fantastic world of giant Himalayan peaks. Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Lobuche. The 130 km long trek offers many highlights along the way. Discover traditional villages, the natural beauty of the Sagarmatha National Park, and ancient monasteries. Stay in teahouses that offer accommodation and the opportunity to connect with fellow trekkers from all over the world. The Everest Base Camp trek is rather moderate, but you need to be fit, healthy, and well prepared. Annapurna Base Camp Trek The Annapurna Base Camp trek (4,130 m) is a perfect first trek if you haven't been to the Himalayas yet. Enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Machapuchare, and Himchuli. Get a glimpse into the traditions of the mountain communities. On top of all, experience the most diverse flora and fauna from tropical jungle to snow-capped peaks. Your journey takes you through spectacular valleys, over long suspension bridges, and past beautiful waterfalls. You will climb thousands of stone stairs to finally reach higher altitudes. That requires stamina and strong leg muscles, but the beauty of the scenery is worth every step. To recharge, local teahouses serve all kinds of dishes from traditional to western food. On the way down, take a break at the relaxing hot springs of Jhinu Danda. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek If you are looking for an easier trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek could be your perfect choice. This trek in the Annapurna Sanctuary is also called the Annapurna Sunrise Trek. As the name suggests, it offers beautiful sunrise views of the Himalayas. The risk of altitude sickness is rather low because the maximum altitude is only 3,210 meters. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is great for acclimatizing or a shorter trek without compromising on the views. Consider this trek if you are on a tight schedule because you can reach the top within a few days. For accommodation, there are plenty of guesthouses on the way. Technically, the route is not difficult. In a nutshell: The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is accessible, easier than other treks, but still offers stunning views. Three good reasons why this trek is among the best trekking routes in Nepal. Gokyo Lake Trek This trek is your choice if you are a mountain enthusiast who loves a challenge. The extended version of the Everest Base Camp trek takes around 16 days and requires stamina. During the first part of your journey, you will discover Gokyo village, Gokyo valley, and the spectacular Gokyo lakes. Those lakes at 5,000 meters above sea level are the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Leaving the lakes behind, climb the peak of Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m. From there, stunning views of Everest and other peaks await. Your next destination is Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep. Enjoy more amazing views at the foot of Mount Everest before heading to Kala Patthar for sunrise panoramas. With its mesmerizing blue lakes and breathtaking views, this Himalayan journey is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. Makalu Base Camp Trek The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes you into the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area. Mount Makalu (8,481) is the world's fifth highest mountain. Nonetheless, this 16-days-trek is less crowded than other famous treks. There is a reason for it: The tour to an altitude above 4,500 meters is rather difficult and remote. In other words, the trails are steep, the terrain is wild and the ascents and descents are long. But the efforts pay off: Get in touch with nature, discover the unique culture, and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Mount Makalu, and Mount Lhotse. For food and accommodation, tea houses offer all you need. This journey is a dream come true for nature lovers who want to discover the wilder side of the Himalayan mountain world. Because of its natural beauties, this trek is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. Langtang Valley Trek Langtang Valley or the so-called "valley of glaciers" is located north of Kathmandu on the border to Tibet. Langtang Valley is the closest trekking area from Kathmandu. Compared to other treks in the Khumbu or Annapurna region, the altitude is lower (up to 3,800 m). Hence, the Langtang Valley Trek (around one week) is not as challenging as other treks in higher altitudes. At the same time, it offers wonderful views of the Langtang mountains. Trekkers can discover the culture of the Sherpas and Tamangs, as well as the influence of Tibetan Buddhism. The flora and fauna is varied and very rich, as the area is home to species like black bear, red panda, or Himalayan Tahr. The Langtang valley trek is a rather easy trek. Nonetheless, you need some stamina to walk for 5 to 6 hours a day. Manaslu Circuit Trek The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an almost 2 weeks long trek to the base of Mount Manaslu. Many trekkers choose it as an alternative to the Annapurna Circuit because it is less busy. The views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and glacier lakes are breathtaking. The trail, a former salt trading route, takes you through traditional Tamang and Sherpa villages. You will walk along the Buri Gandaki river, crossing countless bridges and walking long stretches up and down before reaching steeper trails. The goal of this journey is the crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,135 meters. The Manaslu area used to be a restricted zone, but it has been opened to trekkers in recent years. Please note though that a special permit is necessary to trek in this region. Its natural beauties, wilderness, and stunning views make this trek one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. Annapurna Circuit Trek The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a world-famous trek and amongst the best trekking routes in Nepal. In fact, it is known as one of the best long-distance treks in the world. For a good reason: On this trek, you go through all climate zones from tropics to arctic at Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). The long trek is challenging, but the majestic views of the Annapurna Range (8000 m peaks) are worthwhile each and every step. Take an acclimatization day in Manang, a picturesque village with magical mountain panoramas. Discover areas like Mustang and Kaski. Get a glimpse into the Tibetan and Hindu culture. Enjoy nature to its fullest. To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, most trekkers do the circuit anti-clockwise (the altitude gain is slower in that direction). First published on ArticlesFactory.com 17 Jan 2021. Sanjib works as a tour guide and trekking/tour operator in the Nepalese tourism industry, and has been to several of the Himalayan Nepalese base camps and places of historical heritage. He writes about his travel experiences in Nepal and loves photography. \| Planning a cruise, a tour for yourself and your loved one (or a big group of family and friends), or a personal pilgrimage? Maybe just seeking hotel accommodations, airline flights, travel insurance, or transportation rental? We can arrange any and all of that for you anywhere on the globe, so you don't have to do the heavy-lifting yourself. We cater to small or big groups, couples, families, and individuals — and we can tailor-fit the services just for your needs. For more information, contact us now.