The Indigenous People Trail trek is the best way to experience Nepal’s authentic spirit. Taking this trail, you will pass through several remote villages and experience the village life nearby. You will visit the communities of the Newar, Tamang, Sherpa, Majhi, and Thami people. Stopping by these villages, you can watch their daily lives and how they survive. Even though culture and customs are changing, each place you visit will greet you with warm hospitality and a pleasant atmosphere.
On this trek, you will see a blend of Buddhism and Hinduism in a short time, from old traditional temples to ancient monasteries. You will see everything reflecting these two communities’ people. Walking along this trail, you will witness the natural beauty of the place and the people residing here. Each spot you will pass by shows the different cultures of the people. Furthermore, you will also see the beautiful views of the Annapurna region, Dhaulagiri, and Kanchenjunga peaks while taking this trail.
Taking this trail helps you understand the diversity the place offers. It offers a balance between nature and culture immersion. You can go on this hike any time of the year, but the best experiences are between September and May when most festivals happen. Want to make a booking for this trek trail? Choose us. We offer a short 5-day Indigenous People Trail trek for you.
See glimpses of Newar, Tamang, Sherpa, Majhi, and Thami communities’ villages.
Study the Hinduism and Buddhism fusion of culture.
See how culture and tradition are evolving.
Through the villagers, take the roads you’ve created.
Reside in homes operated by locals.
Sample the food of the region and learn about native Nepalese culture.
suitable for novices and lone travelers.
Nature and culture in harmony.
The full cultural experience of the area.
Extraordinary encounters from September to May.
Trek Difficulty For Indigenous People Trail
The difficulty level of the Indigenous People Trail varies from easy to moderately challenging. It depends on the specific route and terrain. The trail unwinds through mixed landscapes: dense forests, sun-drenched meadows, and the occasional steep climb that gets your heart racing. Hiking durations each day can range from 4 to 6 hours, with elevation gains requiring a reasonable fitness level.
While some sections may be more challenging due to altitude changes and terrain variations, the trail is generally accessible to trekkers. You can complete this trek with a moderate level of physical fitness. Prior experience is optional. Pacing and preparing yourself for varying weather conditions and trail surfaces is advisable. To enhance your safety, you can also hire a guide.
January
2°C to 10°C
February
3°C to 11°C
March
5°C to 14°C
April
8°C to 17°C
May
11°C to 19°C
June
14°C to 20°C
July
5°C to 21°C
August
15°C to 20°C
September
14°C to 20°C
October
11°C to 18°C
November
7°C to 14°C
December
4°C to 11°C
Best Time To Trek The Indigenous People Trail
The best time to trek the Indigenous People Trail is during the autumn months of September to November and the spring months of March to May. During these periods, the weather is generally dry and stable, offering clear skies and pleasant temperatures for trekking. With spring’s warmth, the trail comes alive. You will see vibrant hues as rhododendrons and wildflowers bloom in tandem. In autumn, you will have clear views of the Himalayan peaks against the backdrop of blue skies, perfect for taking memorable photographs.
Avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June to August), when the trail can be slippery and prone to landslides. Winter (December to February) can bring cold temperatures and snow, especially at higher elevations, which may limit visibility and trekking opportunities. Planning your trek during the recommended months can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience. You can explore the natural wonders and experience the local culture firsthand.
5 Days Indigenous People Trail Trek Day-to-day-Itinerary
Day 1
Drive to Dhunge
Day 1 Facts
Trekking Time Average
170km./07 hours drive
Accommodation
Homestay at Dhunge
Altitude
(2500m./8250ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dhunge. The journey takes us through Nepal’s most picturesque landscapes. We will pass through villages like Banepa and Dhulikhel and terraced fields, leaving the bustling city behind. The drive offers comfort and excitement as we approach the starting point. Taking this drive on the 1st day, we will glimpse traditional village life.
Day 2
Trek to Kholakharka
Day 2 Facts
Trekking Time Average
12km./04 hours walk
Accommodation
Homestay at Kholakharka
Altitude
(2948m./9278ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a hearty breakfast in Dhunge, our trek officially starts as we head towards Kholakharka. Imagine the satisfaction of trekking through dense, vibrantly green forests, then suddenly finding yourself in a vast, open expanse of meadowland. Along the way, we will pass through small settlements like Khola Kharka, where we can observe traditional farming practices. We will also see the splendid views of Mount Gaurishankar, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal from Thulo Sailung.
Day 3
Trek to Surkey
Day 3 Facts
Trekking Time Average
13km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Homestay in Surkey
Altitude
(1840m./6072ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will trek to Turkey at 1,840 meters above sea level on the third day. This part of the journey is about five hours long and offers stunning views. Picturesque villages and tranquil countryside scenes unfold along the winding trail. In villages like Pasiban and Khani Gaon, we will get to mix with the locals, observing their customs and traditions up close, all set against the charming backdrop of their time-honored houses. We will catch glimpses of local life while learning their traditions as we explore.
Day 4
Trek to Doramba
Day 4 Facts
Trekking Time Average
12km./04 hours walk
Accommodation
Homestay at Doramba
Altitude
(2055m./6781ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The fourth day’s goal is to reach Doramba at an elevation of 2,055 meters. The 4-hour hike is moderately challenging but rewarding. We will encounter two vastly different landscapes on our ascent: dense, vibrant forests and fields carefully crafted into terraces. We will walk through villages like Tek Sing and Dhade to witness local customs and perhaps join in some village activities. The higher altitude will offer even more spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Stepping into the terraced fields of Doramba village is like entering a living, breathing tapestry of traditions.
Day 5
Drive to Kathmandu via Dhulikhel.
Day 5 Facts
Trekking Time Average
180km./07 hours drive
Altitude
(1295m./4273ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch
On the final day, we will drive back to Kathmandu through Dhulikhel. This route will allow us to enjoy the incredible scenery one last time. Dhulikhel provides a breathtaking mountain panorama, surrounded by the echoes of a centuries-old cultural legacy. We will stumble upon hidden gems where historic architecture tells the story of a bygone era. As the miles fly by on our way back, we will have ample time to replay the best moments of our adventure.
What do you get in the Trip?
Included
Tribhuwan International Airport ( Airport – Hotel – Airport )  transfer in Kathmandu .
Lodge/ Home Stay (Twin share) accommodation during the trekking.
All meals ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ) during trek.
One experienced, well trained, fluent English speaking, friendly, specialized in Pikey Peak Region and government authorized trekking guide and required porters (One porter for two persons).
Guide and porter’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance and transportation etc.
Necessary permits and documents.
Overland transportation as per mentioned in itinerary.
A trekking map, duffel bag, first aid kit box, Oxygen saturation check up everyday, water purification, company T-shirt and trekking completion certificate .
Assistance for emergency rescue evacuation.
All kind of service charge and government tax .
Public Liability Insurance.
Not included
Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, mineral water, beer, hot shower, hot water, laundry, phone bill etc.
Personal Travel insurance.
Tips for guide and porters .( Highly suggested).
Book the Trip
Available dates..
Currently, we do not have any scheduled group trips, but you are welcome to embark on the journey on a date that suits you best.
The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.
A 5-day trekking route on the Indigenous People Trail offers a captivating journey through Nepal’s diverse landscapes and indigenous communities. The trek begins amidst picturesque villages and terraced fields, starting with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dhunge. From Dhunge, the trail leads to Kholakharka and showcases stunning views of Mount Gaurishankar, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal. Moving forward, we will traverse picture-perfect villages like Pasiban and Khani Gaon.
Ascend The journey proceeds to Doramba. We will ascend through dense forests and terraced fields, with glimpses of local villages such as Tek Sing and Dhade. Our trek comes full circle as we rewind to the Kathmandu Tour. We will take a day break in Dhulikhel, where majestic mountain vistas and rich cultural heritage blend. On this path, the splendor of Nepal’s mountains and valleys takes a backseat to traditional life’s even more outstanding beauty.
Meals And Accommodations
On the Indigenous People Trail, accommodations vary from basic lodges and guesthouses to homestays. You will find cozy beds and essential amenities such as hot showers and shared dining areas at our lodging options. For a more indigenous experience, staying in homestays lets you experience age-old traditions and warm hospitality firsthand.
In terms of meals, you will enjoy hearty meals that showcase local Nepali cuisine. You can expect dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), often served with vegetables, meat (if available), and sometimes pickles or chutneys. Having local dishes in every place you visit will give you a better understanding of the local people.
Do I need a permit to hike the Indigenous People Trail?
Yes, you do need a permit to hike the Indigenous People Trail. You can get the permits through a registered trekking agency or directly from the Nepal Tourism Board. This permit allows you to trek through the designated areas and ensures that you can enjoy the trail.
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is the Indigenous People Trail?
The Indigenous People Trail is a hiking path in Nepal. It lets you learn about the culture and traditions of local indigenous communities. The trail offers a unique experience of Nepal’s diverse heritage.
Where is the Indigenous People Trail located?
The Indigenous People Trail is in the mid-western region of Nepal. It is in the foothills of the Himalayas. This location offers stunning mountain views and rich cultural experiences. The trail passes through many villages, letting you see the daily lives of local people.
What is the length of the Indigenous People Trail?
The length of the Indigenous People Trail spans from 3 to 6 days. However, it can vary based on the route you choose. This allows hikers to explore different villages and landscapes along the way.
How physically demanding is the Indigenous People Trail?
The Indigenous People Trail can be physically demanding, involving hiking through rugged terrain at high altitudes. You should be in good physical shape and prepared for long, steep ascents and descents.
What kind of flora and fauna can be seen on the Indigenous People Trail?
The flora and fauna along the Indigenous People Trail vary depending on the altitude and season. Still, hikers may encounter rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and a variety of bird and animal species.
What is the cultural significance of the Indigenous People Trail?
The Indigenous People Trail is culturally significant. It allows you to learn about the unique traditions and lifestyles of Nepal’s indigenous communities.
How can I prepare for the Indigenous People Trail?
To prepare for the Indigenous People Trail, you should focus on building their physical endurance, bringing appropriate gear and clothing, and researching the local customs and traditions of the Indigenous communities.
Is it safe to hike the Indigenous People Trail?
While the Indigenous People Trail is generally safe, you should take precautions to avoid altitude sickness. Be aware of potential hazards such as slippery trails and inclement weather.
Can I hire a guide for the Indigenous People Trail?
Yes, you can hire a guide for the Indigenous People Trail. Hiring a guide ensures a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Guides know the local terrain, culture, and customs, enhancing your journey.
Are there any cultural practices that visitors should be aware of while hiking the Indigenous People Trail?
Visitors should respect local cultural practices while hiking the Indigenous People Trail. You can remove shoes before entering homes and avoid clothing that may be deemed inappropriate.
Can I visit Indigenous communities along the trail?
Yes, you can visit indigenous communities along the trail and engage in cultural activities such as traditional dance and music performances. This provides a wonderful opportunity to interact with local people and learn about their customs.
Are there any rules or regulations that I should follow while hiking the Indigenous People Trail?
While hiking the Indigenous People Trail, it’s important to follow local rules and regulations. This includes respecting the environment by not littering and disposing of waste responsibly. You should also obtain the necessary permits and permissions.
We thank our guests for trekking with us, reviewing our services, and making us eligible for the prestigious awards. We also sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment and continuous support of our company. Without their hard work, dedication, and passion, the awards and achievements we have received wouldn’t be possible.
My friend and I were lucky to find Tej online before visiting Nepal. We knew we wanted to do a trek, but we weren’t sure exactly which trek. Tej sent us a bunch of itineraries for different treks and we chose the Manaslu circuit. When we arrived our guide, Kumar, was waiting for us at the airport and Tej was able to get us all our permits for the trek done in less than 2 hours which was great. The manaslu trek was absolutely amazing! We were super happy with our whole trip and we were lucky to be able to make the pass even though we saw dozens of other people who had to turn back because of the weather. We are already looking forward to going back next year at the same time to trek Everest and we will definitely use Tej again!
“Nepal Alternative Trek addressed my needs according to my schedule and agenda. I stayed most of the time at his home-stay, shuttling between home and the places that I wanted to visit. Tej, the boss behind Nepal Alternative Trek, helped to make my stay in Kathmandu comfortable and productive. He walked me to the monasteries that I wanted to visit and even picked me up when I needed a ride back home.
The home-stay is hosted by his wife and I got to experience living with a Nepalese family, sharing their food, space and laughter.
For the home-stay:
1) Meals available upon request
2) Family get together and chats
3) Regular change of bed-sheets and towels
4) Free WIFI
5) Near Swayambhu and Thamel
6) Safe environment
7) Mountainous forest behind home
8) Walking distance to beautiful monasteries
9) Away from hustle and bustle of towns yet easy to get to town
Goal was achieved 4130 meter and 0 degree celsius, Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It was 6 months of preparation. It was challenging target for us. We had dense forest, mountain, and completely wilderness above the treeline, it was windy and terrain . There is a huge support team. Without them it would not be possible. We can do it , we just have to give time and practice. Mr. Gurung Ji, you with your entire 7 of team were wonderful. They were always ready to help us.
Thanks Mr. Gurung ji for all the support, and guidance that made the trip successful. While all of us focused on Mountain, big thing but there were so many beautiful things along the way, stream, flowers, flora, so many birds I took pictures. So, in summary, phenomenal, success and our confidence there. We know, we can do more and higher in next what bigger thing.
8 days non trek city tour and 21days trek to EBC and chola pass
We love nepal and made 3 time visit to this beutiful country and rich culture. This time last year we came with 6 pax and visited Kathmandu , Pohkara and chitwan with a stay of 2 night in each place. We flew to Pohkara and got the van to chitwan and flew to Kathmandu. Tej arranged all transports overland and flights for us. We did not asked for a local guide but it was all smooth and no problem. We are happy with the service provided by Tej and he made all efforts to make us happy. His company performed professional with the very reasonable pricing. We encountered some small problem with the van transporting us back from nagarkot to kathmandu airport. This van was quite small and it came to pick up quite late that we almost missed the flight to pohkara. We told Tej about this and he must take care of this outsourced van company. Anyway the van in pohkara and to chitwan was excellent , big and comfy. So he has corrected the mistake.
Part 2 was our trek to EBC and chola pass for 21 nights. Tej arranged for flight and guide plus porter. For this trekking it was only me and my wife travelling together. We are about 50 years and used the service of 2 porters cause we bought a lot of dry food plus chocolate. We are difficult persons in terms of foreign food. Our guide Ammer and 2 porters are fabulous. They took care of us very well like we are part of their family.
Overall we strongly recommend this company. They are good and not high expensive tag. We will use their service again in June to trek in Langtang. Rocky
We had a fantastic experience on the Annapurna Circuit with Nepal Alternative Treks. Tej, the manager, was helpful, professional and efficient in dealing with our requirements and amendments, the arrangements worked smoothly and the information provided to us was excellent. Our guide Kul was brilliant. He was friendly, knowledgable and experienced and took changes in our itinerary in his stride. Our trekking experience was much better with his help in everything from planning the stages of the route to organising our food and accommodation. Just one warning: he is an ace card player and will probably beat you hands down!
A wonderful & interesting trek overall. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances ( heavy snow fall & Lie ping with a bad cold) we were unable to cross the Ganja la pass. However, our guide Simbir offered us as alternative trek which took us on a difference journey of Nepal. We had the opportunity to visit & stay in many local villages and meet Tamang, Gurung people experience, their lifestyle and culture. We visited our guide’s home town of Chalishgaun and timed it right to join in with Diwali celebrations!
Attempting Everest base camp trekking for me & my group was taking it to the next level. Before this, our limits were Kedarnath, MadMaheshwar & Tunganath with max distances of 18-19 kms spread over 2-3 days. Moreover, these tracks are such that people doesn’t necessarily have to trek. They have the option of ponies. EBC involves a lot for people like us (acclimatization to altitude, strength etc.), but above all, you need someone to provide logistical support, moral support that it can be done. This is where Nepal Alternative Treks does a great job. They organized it very well, guides and porters provided were very reliable and cost is reasonable when you compare to others. They can customize your travel plan according to your need.
A few weeks ago we went on a trip to Nepal, accompanied by a couple of friends who were on their second trip with Nepal Alternative Trek. Our first goal was to trek to the village of Chalish in Ruby Valley. We decided to go with the services of Nepal Alternative Trek to take us up there. We went there partly by jeep, partly walking through the cultivated terraces, meeting the inhabitants of the different communities who worked there.
I must say that the service that Tej offered us was perfect on all lines. First of all, before our departure, months before, Tej always answered our many questions (luggage, temperature, route to be revised, etc.) Always within 24 hours, he answered with a lot of patience.
All the equipment we thought we would need was available at his office.
Our guide Ammar led us to destination with confidence and professionalism. He knew all the trails, and especially all the shortcuts to avoid us having to go up or down too much along our road. He has managed all the difficulties we have encountered: due to personal reasons, we had to change and our itinerary, and our calendar, and he made everything possible. The whole team adapted to our changes. Our guide contacted Tej who orchestrated the changes without us even having to deal with anything.
The porters were attentive and were always in front of our needs.
Our journey continued towards Bandipur with the driver who made us know the various interesting points, from sunrise to sunset, making detours to take us to the most famous places. Then a 2 days stay in Chitwan, and return to Kathmandu again where the driver carried us without calculating from one place to another – God knows that traffic in Kathmandu, Bakhtapur and Patan can be complicated.
Thanks to Tej, and the whole Nepal Alternative Trek team. We will remember forever that amazing experience.
Many thanks to Tej – well organized, Dhan + hal worked Hard, we could not have done it without there Help, they were always there when needed, worked extra to help us when we were sick. Always kind and cheerful
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