Newly Open Trekking Routes In Nepal

Nepal has established itself as the hub for trekking around the world. Many treks in Nepal, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, etc., are extremely popular and attract trekkers worldwide. Besides that, multiple newly discovered trekking trails in Nepal have recently gained attraction in the trekking community. Popular trekking regions such as Everest and Annapurna often tend to become overcrowded during peak seasons. The discovery of these treks has opened the door for alternate trekking routes that take you to witness the serene beauty of the Nepal Himalayas. 

The government restricted several regions of Nepal to protect and preserve those areas’ natural and cultural habitats. Currently, those trails are opened with an initiative to promote tourism in Nepal. If you plan to visit Nepal to witness the majestic views of the Himalayas, these newly opened or found trekking destinations can be the best choice. You will be able to trek in the fresh, off-the-beaten paths, witnessing the mind-blowing natural beauty and the unique local culture of the Himalayan region of Nepal.

8 Newly Open Trekking Routes In Nepal

Dhaulagiri Sanctuary Trek

Dhaulagiri Sanctuary Trek, or the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. This trek takes you to the base of Mount Dhaulagiri, which is the seventh-highest peak in the world and sits at a staggering altitude of 8,167 meters from sea level. This trek will allow you to reach three major base camps: Dhaulagiri Base Camp, Glacier Camp, and Italian Base Camp. One major factor that makes this trek a challenging one is the two high-altitude mountain passes: Dhampus Pass(5,240 meters) and French Pass(5,360 meters). 

The months of spring and autumn are the most preferred and ideal times for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. During these seasons, the weather is stable and suitable for trekking around Nepal. The Tea Houses and Guest Houses run by the locals are the accommodation options available in this region. You may even need to camp, depending on the places you’re in. They provide you with authentic Nepali foods, and the probability of finding multi-cuisine options is rare. The trek begins in Beni and ends in Marpha, and it takes around 17-20 days to complete.

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 5,360 M
• Trek Difficulty: Challenging
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Camping
• Best time to go: Spring and Autumn
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep

Machhapuchhre Model Trek

Machhapuchhre Model Trek is one of the newly opened trails in Nepal. This short trek allows you to traverse through the unexplored Annapurna regions of Nepal. This trekking route covers the seven major villages of the Annapurna region, which have huge potential for trekking and hiking. It is one of the easiest trekking routes in the Annapurna region, which takes to an altitude of 3,700 meters above sea level. The trek begins and ends at Hyamja, which is a 30-minute drive from Pokhara.

The months of Spring and Autumn are the best times to trek in the Annapurna region. The Machhapuchre model trek will allow you to witness breathtaking views of the peaks of the Annapurna region, such as Mount Machhapuchre and Mount Annapurna. It is a short trek that can be completed within 5-7 days. If you’re looking for the peaceful and least crowded trails in the Annapurna region, this should be on your list.

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 3,700 M
• Trek Difficulty: Relatively Easy
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Lodges
• Best time to go: Spring and Autumn
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep

Bhairav Kunda Trek

Bhairav Kunda Trek is one of the newly opened trekking trails in the Langtang region of Nepal. This trek takes you to the sacred lake called “Bhairav Kunda,” where “Bhairav” is the angry form of Lord Shiva and the “Kunda” means Lake. Many Hindu devotees travel to Bhairav Kunda to take a holy bath every year. Bhairav Kunda lies right next to the Panch Pokhari and is closer to the Nepal-Tibet border. Many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims visit the lake every year to take a holy bath and wash away their sins. 

Besides its holy lake, trekking in this region will allow you to witness the majestic views of peaks such as Madiya, Phurbi Ghhyachu, Dorje Lakpa, etc. The months of Spring and Autumn are the best times to trek in this region. It takes you around 10-12 days to complete this trek. It is one of the newly opened trails where you need to camp, as there are only a few places where you can find Tea houses or Guest houses for your stay. 

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 4,364 M
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Camping
• Best time to go: Spring and Autumn
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep

Panch Pokhari

Panch Pokhari Trek is one of the short and adventurous treks near Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. It is one of the newly opened trails that takes you to the beautiful five lakes, which sit at an altitude of 4,100 meters from sea level. The term “Panch Pokhari” is a Nepali word that means “five Lakes.” The trekking route to Panch Pokhari traverses through colorful Rhododendron forests, green hills, etc. 

It is one of the least crowded trekking trails and a family-friendly trek to witness the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This short trek can be completed in around 5-6 days. There are two trekking routes to reach Panch Pokhari, one from Sano Okhareni via Chautara and the other from Bhotang Village via Melamchi. 

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 4,100 M
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Lodges
• Best time to go: Spring and Autumn
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep

Khopra Ridge Trek

Khopra Ridge Trek, or the Khayer Lake Trek, is one of the newly opened trails in the center of the Annapurna region. If you plan to trek in the Annapurna region, these off-the-beaten paths will allow you to trek in a peaceful environment. The Khopra Ridge Trek takes you to the Khayer Lake, which sits at an altitude of 4500 meters above sea level. This lake is considered sacred by Hindu pilgrims. Trekking in this region will allow you to witness the breathtaking views of Annapurna region peaks such as Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Hiuchuli, etc.

The actual trek begins from Naya Pul, which is a 2 hours ride from Pokhara. It takes you around 6-8 days to complete this trek. There are multiple trekking routes available for this trek, but the most popular one is the one via Ghandruk. 

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 4,500 M
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Lodges
• Best time to go: Spring and Autumn
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep

Gaurisankar

The Gaurisankar Himal Trek is one of the newly opened trials that allow you to trek in one of the remote parts of the Rolwaling region. This rowaling region is situated to the west of the Khumbu region. Gaurisankhar Himal, or Gaurisankar Mountain, sits at an altitude of 7,134 meters from sea level. If you’re looking for a unique place to trek in Nepal, this Gaurisankhar Himal Trek is one that has been newly discovered and is rich in biodiversity. The views of the Tso Rolpa Glacial Lake, Rolwaling Glacier, Mount Gaurisankhar, Mt. Melungtse, etc., add extra charm to this trek. 

There might be several steep ascents and descents in this trek, but anyone with decent fitness and strong determination can successfully complete it. You can experience the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions of this region. It takes you around 15-18 days to complete this trek. 

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 4,180 M
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Lodges
• Best time to go: Spring and Autumn
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep

Mahabharat Rhododendron Trek

Mahabharat Rhododendron Trek is a short trekking route that allows you to trek in the Mahabharat range. This trek lies to the east of Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. It is one of the new trekking trails in Nepal. This trek offers you the chance to trek in the dense Rhododendron forests, where you can witness the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks standing tall in the back. Despite being accessible to trek at any time of the year, spring is considered the best time to trek on this trail. Nepal’s national flower, Rhododendron, blooms this month, making all of the trails look colorful. 

The trek begins from Dumja, which is a 5-hour drive from Kathmandu. Moreover, you can always combine this trek with wild rafting over the Sunkoshi River. Besides its natural prospect, you can also experience the local culture and traditions of the people living in the Mahabharat range. It is a relatively easy trek that takes around 5-7 days to complete.

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 2,900 M
• Trek Difficulty: Easy
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Lodges
• Best time to go: Spring 
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep

Badimalika Temple Culture Trek

Badimalika Temple Culture Trek is one of the new Nepalese trekking routes. This trek is named after the Badimalika Temple in the Bajura district of the Far Western region. Trekking in this region will allow you to see the rich biodiversity of the Khaptad National Park. This trek can be done throughout the year, but Autumn is considered the best time to trek in this region. Moreover, you can witness the breathtaking views of the tallest peaks of Far-Western Nepal, such as Mount Api and Mount Saipal. 

This trek is more of a religious trek, and you can visit the Hindu temple, Badimalika Temple. Trekking to Badamalika during the Autumn months will allow you to experience the rich Hindu culture of this region. You can experience people performing different dances such as Deuda, Bhuwo, Hedkeuli, Thadi, etc. It takes around 15 days to complete this trek. 

Trip Facts

• Maximum Elevation: 4,214 M
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Tea Houses / Camping
• Best time to go: Autumn
• Transportation: Bus/ Jeep
• Cost: $ 2,300

Conclusion

Exploring Nepal’s newly discovered trekking routes will allow you to witness the raw beauty of the Himalayas. The small Himalayan nation of Nepal is extremely rich in natural beauty. Trekking in any region of Nepal will allow you to explore beautiful Nepal’s different corners and rims. The new trekking trails will provide you with a unique trekking experience you will cherish forever. Trekking on new trails gives real adventure, boosting your confidence for other challenging treks. 

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