Without a doubt, Nepal is a popular trekking destination with some of the best treks in the world. If you are a mountain enthusiast, you have probably heard of treks like the Everest Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Base Camp trek. But besides the famous routes, there are many other options that are just as beautiful and worth a closer look. A trek in the Himalayas is a great opportunity to discover the country, its culture and its breathtaking mountain panoramas. Leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind, reconnect with nature and enjoy a trek of a lifetime. The Himalayas offers a great variety of tours and treks for all kinds of adventurers. All you have to do is pick the option that suits you most.
Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek (5,400 m) is often considered one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. Every year, Mount Everest attracts countless trekkers following their dream: standing at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain. This trek offers a fantastic journey through the world of the Himalayas. Highlights include beautiful views of Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche and, of course, Mount Everest. The 130 km long trek takes you through Sagarmatha National Park, across thrilling suspension bridges and through traditional villages. Teahouses offer rooms, food and a convivial setting inviting you to connect with other trekkers from all over the world. The Everest Base Camp trek is technically moderate but requires fitness, health and good preparation.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp trek (4,130 m) is a great choice for a first Himalayan experience. On this trek, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Machapuchare, Himchuli and, of course, Annapurna South and Annapurna 1. Connect with the mountain communities and learn about their traditions. Walkthrough diverse landscapes from jungle to snowy terrain. Cross deep valleys over thrilling suspension bridges and admire majestic waterfalls. To reach higher altitudes, you will climb countless stone stairs. Hence, you need stamina and strong leg muscles, but the beauty of your surroundings make up for every step. Local teahouses offer a place to rest and recharge with different dishes from traditional to international food. To finish your adventure, visit the hot springs of Jhinu Danda where you can take a relaxing bath.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
You don’t have much time or you want to see the Himalayas, but you are not up for a long trek? The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in the Annapurna Sanctuary could be your perfect option. The so-called Annapurna Sunrise trek offers stunning sunrise views of the Himalayas. Because the altitude on this trek is comparatively low (3,210 meters), the risk of altitude sickness is very low too. This trek is great if you want to acclimatize for an upcoming adventure. It can be done within a few days. Therefore, it is also ideal if you are on a tight schedule. There are plenty of guesthouses on the way of offering accommodation and food. Technically, the route is not very challenging. Nonetheless, it offers fantastic views and an authentic Himalayan experience. In other words: This trek is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal.
• Gokyo Lake Trek
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a challenging trek for true mountain lovers. It is an extended version of the Everest Base Camp trek requiring stamina on a 16-days adventure. The first highlights of the journey are Gokyo village, Gokyo valley and the famous Gokyo lakes. At 5,000 meters above sea level, those lakes are the highest freshwater lakes worldwide. Your next destination is the peak of Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m. From there, majestic views of Everest and other snow-capped peaks await. Finally, head to Everest Base Camp passing Gorakshep. Stand at the foot of Mount Everest and continue to Kala Patthar for even more panorama views. Thanks to its green-blue lakes and magical mountain views, this journey through the Himalayas is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal.
• Makalu Base Camp Trek
The Makalu Base Camp Trek lets you discover the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area. Mount Makalu (8,481) is the fifth highest mountain worldwide. But that doesn’t mean this 16-days long trek is as busy as other popular treks. For a good reason: The trek to an altitude above 4,500 meters is more remote and challenging. To be more specific: Expect steep trails and long uphill and downhill walk through wild terrain. But the efforts are worthwhile ever step: Discover nature at its best, the local culture and mesmerizing views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu. Basic tea houses offer food and a place to rest. Taking you to the wilder side of the Himalayas, this trek is the perfect option for adventurers. Because of its beautiful setting, it is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal.
• Langtang Valley Trek
Langtang Valley or the “valley of glaciers” is on the border to Tibet, north of Kathmandu. It is the closest trekking region from Kathmandu. Compared to other popular treks in the Himalayas of Nepal, the altitude is a little bit lower (up to 3,800 m). In other words, the Langtang Valley Trek is less challenging than high altitude treks. At the same time, it is a great opportunity to enjoy pure nature and wonderful views of the Langtang range. The 1-week-trek gives you an opportunity to discover the Sherpa and Tamang culture. The area has a rich flaura and fauna and is home to many different species. If you are lucky, you might even spot a black bear, Himalayan Tahr or red panda. The Langtang valley trek is an easier trek, but beware: Fitness and stamina are still required because you will walk for 5 to 6 hours a day.
• Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek (around 2 weeks) takes you to the base of Mount Manaslu. It is a more remote alternative to the busier Annapurna Circuit. The views of giant peaks and spectacular valleys are breathtaking. Follow a former salt trading route through Tamang and Sherpa villages. During the first days of your trek, walk along the majestic Buri Gandaki river. After crossing many bridges and long stretches up and down, you finally reach steeper trails. Those will take you to your goal: the crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,135 meters. The Manaslu area is open to trekkers, but you need a special permit to trek in this region. Its wild beauty and stunning views make this trek one of the best trekking routes in Nepal.
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is known as one of the best long-distance treks in the world. Without a doubt, it is also one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. What makes this trek special is that you will pass all climate zones from tropics to the arctic. The long journey to Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) is a challenging, yet beautiful adventure. Tired muscles will be forgotten as soon as the breathtaking Annapurna Range appears at the horizon. For acclimatization, you can take a rest day in Manang. The picturesque village offers fantastic Himalayan panoramas. On this trek, you will also discover regions like Mustang and Kaski. In addition, you get the chance to learn about the Hindu and Tibetan culture. Do the trek anti-clockwise, because the altitude gain is slower. That way, you can reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Author's Bio: 

Purushottam Timalsina is a blogger, SEO specialist, and a motivational influencer in Nepal. He is now working as Project Manager at Webmandu Nepal PVT. LTD. Completed bachelor degree in BSC CSIT from Tribhuban University. Started career while pursuing his bachelor degree dreaming to become a professional in his passion, interest, and career.