8 Trekking Routes in Nepal for Physical and Mental Wellbeing. To embark upon the noble pursuit of trekking isn’t just to go on long walks into remote elevations for capturing “sceneries”, absolutely not. Let’s try putting it like this: It is to fill the heart with a sense of wonder and awe, to revere the creation of nature as one beholds the majestic peaks and their summits piercing the azure skies, to fall in love with the forests teeming with life and with the sound of the rushing waters as they tumble down the slopes in an incessant cascade of utter beauty.
So, to tune in, Here’s a little list of trekking routes in Nepal that you’d absolutely LOVE!
Everest Base Camp Trek
Arguably the number 1 trekking route in the world, this is the adventure of a lifetime. This trek to the 5,364m high base of the highest mountain peak of the world, the Sagarmatha, shall fill you with the most ecstatic and memorable of experiences, taking you away from all the chitter-chatters and everyday amenities. As you walk alongside adventurers like you from all over the world, you’ll get to see not only the breathtaking views of glaciers and Himalayan cliffs, but the Sherpa-Lama cultures thriving deep within.
There are also other peaks including the Choyuu, the Lhotse, the Makalu, the Amadablam, etc. that you’ll see along the long trek, so save your breath, and hike along! The trek will give you a never-preceded test of your physical prowess and endurance, and refreshen you with the vitality of the Himalayas.
Annapurna Base Camp
An euphoric trek to the foothills of the Annapurna Range, this is the adventure that’ll leave you reminiscing back for years, if not decades, after you’re done. Not only are you greeted by the blissful and breathtaking views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Langtang, Dhaulagiri, and other skyscraping mountains, but the cultures hiding deep within these mountains that’ll have you falling for them in seconds.
The winding streets and the quaint stone buildings of the Braga village that take the traveler to a world of centuries past, the bustling bazaars of Jomsom that serve as testaments to the ingenuity of traditional Nepalese life, the wooden houses and the terraced fields of Manang where the rhythms of daily life seem to harmonize perfectly with the pulses of the natural world; all are sure to allure your heart with enchantment and wonder.
Another highlight that can be attributed for the influx of more than 5,000 trekkers from all over the world every year, is the crossing of the Thorong Laa pass, which is one of the world’s highest mountain passes(5416m high), from where you can observe a panoramic view reaching as far as the wide Tibetan plateaus in the north.
Langtang Valley Trek
An enchanting 8-10 day long trek along stunning pines and rhododendrons, bamboo forests alongside the massive waterfalls, streams, extensive meadows and pastures, wooded valleys and high ice-wall ridges to elevations as high as 5,000m, this trek is equally likely to have you become absolutely infatuated with the beauty of creation. Every time you think you’re growing weary, the sight of the rare arboreal red panda, or the Himalayan tar, the musk deer, or the snow leopard is sure to revitalize you!
As you venture deeper, the Langtang Valley reveals its true splendor, earning its moniker as the ‘valley of glaciers.’ The air whispers with tales of ancient ice formations, a testament to the enduring power of nature’s beauty. Ascending to new heights, the trek presents the opportunity to conquer Tserko Ri, a vantage point that rewards with unparalleled scenic views. Gazing upon the snow-capped peaks of Langtang Ri, Langtang, Langsisa, and Ganjala, one can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of awe and wonder. The very essence of romance permeates the crisp mountain air, as if nature itself conspires to awaken the passion within you.
Gosainkunda Trek
This trek to the heights of Gosainkunda takes you 4,300m high, getting you to pass through pristine forests full of blooming rhododendrons, drifting streams and small villages. Be it that you’re just looking for a physically stimulating trek, or want to immerse yourself into the hospitable cultures of Nepal, this trek is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you.
An important highlight of this trek, The Gosainkunda Lake, of which the crystalline waters mirror the embrace of heaven and earth, glistening like a million stars and reflecting the majesty of the Towering Himalayas, is a sight we truly dare you to forget!
The local monasteries, notably the Sing Gompa, the majestic ponds, including Bhairav Kunda and Dudh Kunda, the high and scary mountain passes, all shall mold themselves into memories you’ll always cherish. If you do happen to come across a Red Panda, which is a speciality of this region, do say Hi for us!
Mardi Himal Trek
How about a mesmerizing journey through the captivating Mardi Trek, where the majestic Annapurna(8,901 m) and the Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) peaks stand as witnesses to your love affair with the mountains? Because, as you ascend to the breathtaking heights, cross the High Camp at 3,859m and behold the panoramic vistas that leave you spellbound, and as you make your way to the Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4.5 km and unveil the unreal world where the snow-capped peaks mirror the azure sky, it’s hard to say that it won’t be a love affair.
Here at Mardi, the vibrant rhododendrons and the white cascading waterfalls will take your breath, and yet the peaceful Kande lake and the wildflowers that grow around it will be right there to save you. So yes, the trek is full of surprises.
Overall, This trek definitely weaves together the beauty of the Himalayas, the cultural tapestry of the Gurung people, and the serenity of untouched landscapes, creating an unforgettable journey that’ll stay etched in your heart forever.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a heavenly enchantment as one traverses along meandering rivers, lush forests, and vibrant flora that paint a vivid portrait of Mother Nature. Not only will this trek allow your spirits to ascend to new heights as you reach to the pinnacle of your journey, i.e. the Larkya La Pass(5,617 m), but in this very magical summit, an absolutely divine panorama of Manaslur, Himlung, Annapurna II shall bestow upon your very hands the essence of lush greenery.
From the graceful Tahr to the elusive Snow Leopard, from playful Agali to charming Himalayan Marmots, each encounter will ignite the wonder within you, as you embrace the untamed treasures that nature bestows.
Lose yourself in forests that whisper songs and in the rivers that serenade your soul. Engage with the Tibetan and Nepalese locals, immerse yourself in their traditions, and be captivated by the untamed wilderness that unveils its secrets along the way!
Upper Mustang Trek
In the ethereal realm of Upper Mustang, nestled amidst the Himalayas, lies a trek of unparalleled romance. The region itself is devoid of rain, as it rests in an embrace of the rain shadow, yet it is drenched in spirituality; with every step forward, you’ll traverse a sacred path adorned with chortens, Gompas and caves.
At the heights of 2,800 to 3,800, you’ll experience the generations-old Tibetan culture blending seamlessly with everyday life, with the smiles and hospitality of the locals making you feel at home.
As you wander through the ancient city of Lo Manthang, history dances in the air, and the grand palace of the king beckons you with its intricate carvings and timeless beauty.
Above and over that, Majestic mountains like Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri grace the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold and purple, igniting a love for nature’s grandeur in your heart.
Rara Lake Trek
Rara is the hidden jewel of Nepal. Every step here is like stepping into a dream, stepping closer to a paradise untouched by time. Nestled at an elevation of 2,990m, and yet unrequiring of planes to reach, this place is sure to transport you to true serenity.
You’ll go along meandering through picturesque valleys, charming villages and dense forests, and gradually, the trek unravels a world where you’ll find that time stands still. As you wander along, you may even encounter the rich tapestry of Himalayan Wildlife, black beers to red pandas and pheasants, and a few more creatures that call this region home. And finally, at the very heart of this landscape lies Rara, a shimmering gem, its turquoise waters reflecting the deep blue sky above, and the surrounding mountains. Be sure to take a soothing breath of the atmosphere in, it’ll feel like cleansing every impurity off your skin.
As you ascend to vantage points like the Murma Top(3,715m), it’ll be a true bird’s eye-view. These lofty heights shall offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Chuchemara Peak, Ruma Kand and Malika Kand. Furthermore, as you go along the highs and lows, you’ll also encounter the Thakuri, the Malla and Khasa communities that have inhabited these lands for centuries, and be sure to take a glimpse into their customs: perhaps you’ll learn a thing or two about life being lived with deep connections to nature and the universe itself!
Author
Samridhi Shrestha
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