10 Best Short Treks in Nepal

Short Treks in Nepal should be at the top of your travel bucket list if you crave adventure and excitement. This incredible destination offers unforgettable opportunities for trekking and exploration. This country is fortunate to have various exceptional trekking trails covered by majestic snow-capped peaks, vibrant green forests, and constantly changing landscapes.

Introduction To Best Short Treks in Nepal

If you want to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas in a limited timeframe, short treks in Nepal are a perfect choice. A short trek in Nepal spans from 3 to 11 days. When choosing a trekking destination, consider your physical fitness, the activities you want to experience, and the time you have.

If visiting Nepal for the first time, you should go on short treks. They are a great way to explore the beautiful landscapes. Short treks are also perfect for families, couples, and friends looking for an easier adventure.

Benefits of Short Treks

• Short treks offer a fantastic opportunity to witness the country’s amazing landscapes and wide cultural variety.
• They are ideal for limited-time travelers who still want to experience Nepal’s stunning scenery and diverse cultural heritage.
• They provide a glimpse into the Himalayan adventure without the expensive preparation or high-altitude acclimatization.
• They offer the chance to explore traditional villages, interact with local communities, and gain insights into Nepali culture and lifestyles.
• They cost less than longer treks in permits, equipment, and guides.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Short Trek

When it comes to short treks, the main thing you should consider is season. The best seasons for trekking in Nepal are autumn and spring. During the autumn (September to November), you can enjoy stunning mountain views, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures. 

During spring (March to May), trekking in Nepal becomes even more appealing as the hillsides come alive with vibrant rhododendron blooms. This season is generally favorable for temperature and wildlife sightings. 

You should be able to hike for 4 to 6 hours with breaks. You’ll need decent strength, especially in your legs and core. It is important to be flexible when hiking in uneven terrain to avoid injuries.

Equipment and Gear

• Sunscreen, wet wipes and hand sanitizer
• Sunglasses, sun hat, or woolen cap
• Inner and outer gloves
• Down jacket
• Wind/ waterproof light jacket
• Tourch, power bank, and extra batteries
• Sleeping bag liner
• Trekking pants and waterproof trousers
• T-shirts or shirts
• Water bottles and water purification tablets
• Inner thermal

Best Short Treks in Nepal

Everest View Trek

Everest View Trek, aka Everest Panorama Trek, is a must-try if you want to go for a short adventure. It’s a popular choice for those who have limited time in Nepal. It allows you to visit the spectacular Himalayan territory of the Sherpas. This region is also known for its beautiful mountain views and different varieties of plants and animal life, attracting many tourists. You can take a walk around Namche Bazaar, a famous tourist spot.

During the trek, you may learn about the Sherpa communities’ fascinating ancient history, culture, and religions. The Tengboche Monastery is surrounded by the majestic Ama Dablam, which creates a peaceful and calm atmosphere. This beautiful trek is truly unforgettable because of the magnificent panoramic views of the Nepal Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Thamserku, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

The trek to Everest Base Camp trek begins in Lukla. One of the most common ways to reach Lukla is by direct flight from Tribhuvan International Airport, which takes about 25 – 30 minutes.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a well-known trekking destination in Nepal. It is one of the best treks, providing an exciting journey through traditional Gurung villages, lively forests, breathtaking landscapes, and captivating mountain vistas. The moderate challenge of this trek makes it the best trek for couples and families with kids. You can reach altitudes of 4,130m in just a few days.

The route provides stunning views of Annapurna I, III, IV, Machhapuchhre, and Gangapurna, giving you the feeling of being on the summit of mountains. You will walk across suspension bridges and interact with the local Gurung community, which offers insights into their rich cultural heritage.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) can be easily reached from Pokhara. If you’re beginning your journey from Kathmandu, you must go to Pokhara. You can travel by flight, which takes about 30 minutes, or by private jeep or car, which takes about 6 to 7 hours. Continuing the journey from Pokhara, you will make your way toward Ghandruk.

Ghandruk is the ideal starting point for the ABC trek. However, you can also begin your trek from Landruk or Kimchi. The road in Landruk can be quite challenging and slippery, so it’s best to avoid this trail.

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal trek is a less popular trekking route in Nepal. It lies on the eastern side of the famous Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This region opened in 2012 for tourists and remains a remote and untamed destination, providing a unique glimpse into the charming villages and their way of life.

The trek passes through enchanting rhododendron forests, revealing breathtaking views of majestic peaks such as Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, and Machhapuchhre. When you reach the High Camp, you can see a clear view of the glorious Annapurna Range and an amazing view of Mardi Himal Base Camp.

The Mardi Himal Trek is a beautiful hike that can be completed from Pokhara. If you plan to go from Kathmandu, your first stop should be Pokhara. You will continue your journey towards Phedi after leaving Pokhara.

Annapurna Foothill Trek 

Annapurna Foothill Trek is an incredible short trek from Pokhara. This trail offers you the best view as you pass through beautiful subtropical forests and lovely mountain villages, providing an unforgettable trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

This trek is ideal for those who want to explore natural and cultural beauty. The highlights include enjoying calm surroundings and breakfast while admiring the valley scenery. 

The Annapurna Foothill Trek starts from Pokhara. Your net stop after Pokhara should be Nayapul, the starting point of this incredible adventure. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Nayapul, where your trek to Birethanti will begin.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

If you’re looking for a fantastic trekking experience in Pokhara, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a great option. This trek is the best for showing the breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas. You can experience the amazing beauty of traditional villages, lush forests filled with rhododendrons and pine, and the incredible presence of Nepal’s majestic mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Annapurna I.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek can be easily reached from Pokhara. So, if you start your trip from Kathmandu, your first stop should be Pokhara. From Pokhara, your next destination is Ulleri, as a starting point for Poon Hill Trek.

If you’re looking for the most convenient way to get to Ulleri from Pokhara, take a private car or jeep. Due to the dust and muddy roads, you should avoid starting your trek from Nayapul. The route from Pokhara to Nayapul is smooth and easy to drive, but the unpaved road from Nayapul to Ulleri becomes difficult and bumpy.

Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the easiest and shortest treks for beginners. It is easily accessible from Kathmandu. The trails pass through forests filled with bamboo, rhododendrons, waterfalls, and snow-capped summits. A few remarkable peaks, such as Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Lirung, and Langtang Ri, stand out.

For those who love adventure and breathtaking views, an exciting climb up to Tserko Ri, at 5,000m, is a must. This trek offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Nepal’s ethnic Buddhist culture.

The Langtang Valley Trek starts in Syabrubesi, about 120km from Kathmandu. Traveling by private jeep or car typically takes 7 to 8 hours to reach your destination. The road starts well but gets worse as you get closer.

Lower Mustang Trek

Lower Mustang is one of the shortest and best treks in Nepal. It offers breathtaking views of peaks such as Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, and Mt. Himchuli. This trek is best for people looking for a moderate adventure. It takes you along the historic training route to Tibet in the beautiful Kali Gandaki Valley.

The Lower Mustang landscapes are similar to those on the Tibetan plateau. The trek offers experiences of traditional villages, breathtaking sunset and sunrise views, diverse wildlife, and a fascinating mix of cultures. 

Jomson is the starting point of a trek. It can be easily reached by road or flight. Flights are the most convenient option. It takes a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by another 20-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom.

Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers within a few days. It is the less-traveled route that was opened to foreign tourists in 2003. This remarkable region shows towering peaks, majestic glaciers, lush forests, roaming yak herds, century-old monasteries, and ancient villages. It is one of the best short treks for 2024.

As you travel through the trail, you will encounter narrow paths and deep forests with glimpses of vibrant Tibetan chortens, Mani walls, prayer flags, and rock paintings. The trek also includes crossing Phu Pass and Nar Pass, making it an exciting destination. 

The Nar Phu Valley Trek begins in Koto, and it takes 9 hours by private jeep or car to reach Besisahar, which is 146 km from Kathmandu. The road to Koto is difficult and bumpy. 

Gosaikunda and Helambu Trek

Gosaikunda and Helambu Trek is the best short trip in Nepal. The hike in the Langtang region is popular among adventurers. It provides the best views of unexplored villages, vibrant forests, and tranquil landscapes within a short time. During this trek, you can explore the diverse flora and fauna in Langtang National Park and Shivapuri National Park.

This short trekking trail offers a fascinating glimpse into the Tamang and Sherpa communities’ rich culture, traditions, and way of life. 

Gosaukunda and Helambu Trek begins from Syabrubesi. You only have one option to reach Syabrubes: a road trip. It is 120 km from Kathmandu and takes 7 to 8 hours to reach by private jeep or car.

Pikey Peak Trek

Pikey Peak Trek is a hidden gem among the short and easy treks in Nepal. It lies in the lower Khumbu region. Pikey Peak trek is the best as it allows you to experience the breathtaking views of the Everest region in a limited timeframe.

Along this trekking adventure, you can witness the amazing beauty of the Himalayas, with iconic peaks like Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and Mt. Makalu in clear view. In addition, you can explore the Sherpa villages and gain insight into their various ethnic cultures and traditions.

The Peaky Peak Trek begins in Dhap. You can easily reach it from Kathmandu by private car or jeep. The route goes through the Sunkoshi River and Okhaldhunga. Phaplu is an alternative route offering daily flights from Nepal Airlines, Tara Air, and Summit Air. It takes around 30 minutes by flight.

Preparation and Tips for Short Trek

• You should be in good physical condition to walk on uneven terrain.
• While packing, make sure you bring only essential items.
• Take your time to acclimatize to the altitude and drink plenty of water. 
• You should check if you need permits for the area and follow local regulations.
• You should hire a local guide to enhance your experience and safety.

FAQs

Conclusion

Short treks in Nepal generally come with fewer trek days and more views. Each short hike in Nepal has to offer its unique qualities. Some treks take you over massive mountains, while others allow you to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the local communities. You can also do short hikes starting from 3 days to 7 days, which provide some of the best memories in your life.