Nepal is a trekker’s paradise, from day hikes just outside Kathmandu to legendary multi-week treks in the Himalayas. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, here’s a curated list of 15 unforgettable hiking and trekking routes in Nepal with all the practical details you need!
1. Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC)
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 1,00,000 – 1,50,000
- Duration: 12–14 days
- Transportation: Flight to Lukla + hiking
- Altitude Range: 2,800m – 5,364m
- Total Distance: 130 km (round trip)
A classic bucket-list trek offering jaw-dropping views of Everest, Khumbu Glacier, and Sherpa culture.
2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC)
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 60,000 – 90,000
- Duration: 7–10 days
- Transportation: Drive or flight to Pokhara + drive to Nayapul
- Altitude Range: 1,070m – 4,130m
- Total Distance: 70 km (round trip)
Experience the heart of the Annapurna Himal with hot springs and diverse terrain.
3. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 30,000 – 50,000
- Duration: 4–5 days
- Transportation: Pokhara to Nayapul by jeep
- Altitude Range: 1,070m – 3,210m
- Total Distance: 40 km
Perfect for beginners! Enjoy panoramic sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
4. Langtang Valley Trek
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 40,000 – 70,000
- Duration: 7–9 days
- Transportation: Bus/Jeep from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi
- Altitude Range: 1,550m – 4,984m (Tserko Ri)
- Total Distance: 75 km
A serene alternative to the crowded trails with lush forests and Tamang culture.
5. Mardi Himal Trek
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 35,000 – 55,000
- Duration: 4–6 days
- Transportation: Drive from Pokhara to Kande
- Altitude Range: 1,070m – 4,500m
- Total Distance: 50 km
A lesser-known gem with majestic views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.
6. Kalinchowk Hike (Dolakha)
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 5,000 – 8,000
- Duration: 1–2 days
- Transportation: Jeep or bus from Kathmandu
- Altitude Range: 1,500m – 3,842m
- Total Distance: 8 km hike
Popular winter hike known for snow and the sacred Kalinchowk Bhagwati temple.
7. Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Hike
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 500 – 1,500
- Duration: 1 day
- Transportation: Local bus or taxi
- Altitude Range: 1,400m – 2,175m
- Total Distance: 16 km
Easy ridge walk with views of the Himalayas and green valleys.
8. Phulchowki Hike (Godawari, Lalitpur)
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 500 – 1,000
- Duration: 1 day
- Transportation: Local bus or taxi to Godawari
- Altitude Range: 1,400m – 2,782m
- Total Distance: 12 km (round trip)
Highest hill around Kathmandu valley, great for bird watching and nature lovers.
9. Shivapuri Hike
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 300 – 1,000
- Duration: 1 day
- Transportation: Public bus or private vehicle to Budhanilkantha
- Altitude Range: 1,350m – 2,732m
- Total Distance: 13 km
One of the best day hikes near Kathmandu with a peaceful forest trail.
10. Rara Lake Trek
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 90,000 – 1,30,000
- Duration: 8–10 days
- Transportation: Flight to Nepalgunj and Jumla
- Altitude Range: 1,800m – 3,710m
- Total Distance: 50–55 km
Explore the largest lake in Nepal surrounded by pine forests and alpine meadows.
11. Pikey Peak Trek (Lower Everest Region)
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 35,000 – 60,000
- Duration: 6–8 days
- Transportation: Jeep from Kathmandu to Dhap
- Altitude Range: 1,800m – 4,065m
- Total Distance: 55 km
Enjoy one of the best views of Everest without the crowds and altitude risks.
12. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 1,20,000 – 1,80,000
- Duration: 14–18 days
- Transportation: Bus/jeep to Beni from Pokhara
- Altitude Range: 900m – 5,360m
- Total Distance: 130–150 km
A remote and challenging trek for experienced adventurers. Raw wilderness.
13. Tamang Heritage Trail
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 35,000 – 50,000
- Duration: 6–7 days
- Transportation: Bus to Syabrubesi
- Altitude Range: 1,500m – 3,165m
- Total Distance: 40–50 km
A cultural trek that immerses you in the life of the Tamang people.
14. Chisapani – Nagarkot – Dhulikhel Trek
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 1,000 – 2,500
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Transportation: Bus to Sundarijal, return from Dhulikhel
- Altitude Range: 1,300m – 2,175m
- Total Distance: 40 km
A perfect multi-day hike close to Kathmandu with mountain views and scenic villages.
15. Gosaikunda Trek
- Estimated Trip Cost: NPR 40,000 – 70,000
- Duration: 5–7 days
- Transportation: Bus/Jeep to Dhunche
- Altitude Range: 2,030m – 4,380m
- Total Distance: 70 km
Sacred alpine lakes nestled in the Langtang region – popular among pilgrims and trekkers alike.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re up for a quick day hike or an intense high-altitude journey, Nepal has something for every adventure soul. Choose based on your stamina, budget, and curiosity — and don’t forget to respect local cultures and carry back only memories!
