Nepal's trekking routes fall into nine main regions. Everest (Khumbu) and Annapurna carry most of the traffic, with teahouses all the way and treks from 4 to 21 days. Manaslu and Langtang are quieter teahouse regions. Dolpo, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Dhaulagiri and the far west are remote, long and mostly permit-heavy. For a first trek, choose Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill or Everest Base Camp. Langtang reopened on 22 October 2026 after the August flood, and treks now start from Thulo Syabru, so check the latest access before booking.
- Main regionsEverest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Dhaulagiri, Dolpo, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Far West
- BusiestEverest and Annapurna
- Highest common passThorong La, 5,416 m
- Guide ruleLicensed guide required on most routes since 1 April 2023
- Best seasonsMarch to May, October to November
- Monsoon optionsUpper Mustang, Dolpo (rain shadow)
Nepal's trekking routes span every landscape the Himalaya can produce, from subtropical foothills to 5,000-metre passes. There are short courses and long courses, easy treks and extremely difficult treks, famous courses and remote courses. There are gentle routes for first-timers and families, and remote, weeks-long circuits for veterans.
These days, there are treks offering introspection, yoga and social visits to conventional Nepalese towns also. Here we have classified different treks as per the regions in Nepal.
Most first-timers end up in Everest or Annapurna, and with good reason. Teahouses run the whole way, flights and roads are reliable, and rescue is close. Manaslu and Langtang are a step quieter. Dolpo, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and the far west are a different kind of trip: long walks in, restricted area permits, and some nights in tents. The tables below set the regions side by side before the region-by-region notes.
Nepal's Trekking Regions Compared
| Region | Signature treks | High point | Best season | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Everest (Khumbu) | Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, Three Passes, Island Peak | Kala Patthar 5,545 m | Mar to May, Oct to Nov | Busy |
| Annapurna | Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Poon Hill, Jomsom Muktinath | Thorong La 5,416 m | Mar to May, Oct to Nov | Busy |
| Upper Mustang | Lo Manthang | Lo Manthang about 3,840 m | Mar to Nov, monsoon too | Moderate |
| Manaslu | Manaslu Circuit, Tsum Valley | Larke La 5,106 m | Mar to May, Sep to Nov | Moderate |
| Langtang | Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, Helambu | Kyanjin Ri about 4,773 m | Mar to May, Oct to Nov | Quiet |
| Dhaulagiri | Dhaulagiri Circuit | French Pass about 5,360 m | Apr to May, Oct to Nov | Quiet |
| Dolpo | Upper Dolpo, Lower Dolpo, Phoksundo Lake | Passes above 5,000 m | May to Oct | Quiet |
| Makalu | Makalu Base Camp | Base camp about 4,870 m | Apr to May, Oct to Nov | Quiet |
| Kanchenjunga | North and South Base Camps | Pangpema about 5,143 m | Apr to May, Oct to Nov | Quiet |
| Far West and Karnali | Rara Lake, Khaptad, Limi Valley | Rara Lake about 2,990 m (Limi higher) | Apr to Jun, Sep to Nov | Quiet |
Crowd ratings describe the main trails in peak season. Langtang is rated quiet for 2026 because of the flood closures.
How High Each Region's Classic Trek Goes
| High point | Altitude | Scale (to 6,500 m) |
|---|---|---|
| Kala Patthar (Everest) | 5,545 m | |
| Thorong La (Annapurna Circuit) | 5,416 m | |
| French Pass (Dhaulagiri) | 5,360 m | |
| Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North) | 5,143 m | |
| Larke La (Manaslu) | 5,106 m | |
| Makalu Base Camp | 4,870 m | |
| Kyanjin Ri (Langtang) | 4,773 m | |
| Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m | |
| Lo Manthang (Upper Mustang) | 3,840 m | |
| Poon Hill | 3,210 m | |
| Rara Lake | 2,990 m |
Anything above about 2,500 m calls for acclimatisation days. On the treks that go over 5,000 m, plan two rest days at least.
Permits by Region (2026)
| Region | Permits | Cost per foreign trekker | Licensed guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everest (Khumbu) | Khumbu municipality card + Sagarmatha National Park | NPR 3,000 + NPR 3,000. No TIMS | Rule not enforced in the Khumbu |
| Annapurna, Dhaulagiri | ACAP + TIMS | NPR 3,000 + NPR 2,000 | Required |
| Upper Mustang | Restricted area permit + ACAP | USD 50 per day + NPR 3,000 | Required, via agency |
| Manaslu | Restricted area permit + MCAP + ACAP | USD 100 first 7 days (Sep to Nov) + NPR 3,000 each | Required, via agency |
| Langtang | Langtang National Park + TIMS | NPR 3,000 + NPR 2,000 | Required |
| Upper Dolpo | Restricted area permit + Shey Phoksundo NP | USD 500 for 10 days + NPR 3,000 | Required, via agency |
| Lower Dolpo | Restricted area permit + Shey Phoksundo NP | USD 20 per week + NPR 3,000 | Required, via agency |
| Makalu | Makalu Barun National Park + TIMS | NPR 3,000 + NPR 2,000 | Required |
| Kanchenjunga | Restricted area permit + KCAP. No TIMS | USD 20 per week + NPR 2,000 | Required, via agency |
| Humla (Limi) | Restricted area permit | USD 50 first week, then USD 10 a day | Required, via agency |
SAARC nationals pay lower rates. A licensed guide has been compulsory on most routes since 1 April 2023, and restricted areas also need a registered agency. Since 22 March 2026 a single trekker can get a restricted area permit, though the guide is still required. Our trekking permits guide keeps the full list up to date.
Trekking Routes in Nepal by Region
1. Dolpo Region
Photo Credit: Flickr
The Dolpo region is another remote and staggeringly beautiful place in Nepal. Dolpo, also known as Hidden Valley, resides beyond the Himalayas. Dolpo conjures up visions of mysterious monasteries, snow leopards, and blue sheep. The region is famous for the isolated high Himalayan valleys across northern Nepal, which is home to one of the last remnants of traditional Tibetan culture.
A perfect blend of rustic villages, culture dating back to 1000 years, and impressive landscapes, Dolpo is a restricted area and invites only a few visitors. Still, it leaves a permanent impression on those people.
Upper Dolpo is one of the dearest permits in Nepal, USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 a day after that. Lower Dolpo costs USD 20 a week. Both also need the Shey Phoksundo National Park fee of NPR 3,000, a licensed guide and a registered agency. Flights from Nepalgunj to Juphal (about 2,475 m) are often held up by wind and cloud, so build in a spare day at each end. Our Dho Tarap guide covers the Lower Dolpo route in detail.
Most trekkers enter the Dolpo by means of Juphal and after that pursue different courses either in the Lower Dolpo area or further North and West in the Upper Dolpo or Mustang.
Upper Dolpo trekking route passes gigantic mountain ranges - Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Kanjiroba. Upper Dolpo Trek serves some of the most impressive highlights of Dolpo like Phoksundo Lake, ancient monasteries such as Yangtze Gompa and Shey Gompa. Toward the east are the Khyaklum and Dhaulagiri Himal which make a fringe with the Mustang and Annapurna locale separately and give Dolpo a feeling of disengagement from the remainder of Nepal.
Likewise, the Lower Dolpo Trek takes you on a trail meandering around the woods of pine, oak, and juniper which homes the endangered animals like the Himalayan musk deer, blue sheep and snow leopard and ancient villages like Dho Tarap, where people practice centuries-old traditions and customs.
2. Dhaulagiri Region
The Dhaulagiri Region houses the seventh highest mountain in the world, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), and is one of the more remote territories of Nepal.
The area is perfect for experienced high altitude trekkers hoping to evade the regular groups in the Annapurna, Langtang and Khumbu districts. The high section is best crossed in October and November or in April and May. Deep snow closes French Pass in winter, and the monsoon brings cloud and landslides lower down.
The most well-known climb in the district is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek (18-21 days). The trek isn't for the timid. It incorporates strenuous climbing at high elevations and the potential utilization of ropes on the moraines close to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Crossing French Pass (about 5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass (about 5,200 m, figures vary by source), the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is, as we would like to think, one of the best in Nepal!
Several nights above 4,500 m are spent in tents, with no lodges between Italian Base Camp and Yak Kharka. Permits are the ACAP fee (NPR 3,000) and a TIMS card (NPR 2,000), and a licensed guide is compulsory.
3. Annapurna Region
Annapurna region falls under one of the most popular trekking regions in Nepal. Annapurna flaunts the 55-kilometer long mountain ranges, protected by the largest conservation area in the country- Annapurna Conservation Area (7,629 km2). The amphitheatre of peaks around Annapurna Base Camp is called the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The region itself is very diverse with varying landscapes of lush green meadows, dense forests to close up views of Annapurna mastiffs. Passing through Gurung villages, the shorter trails here are less strenuous than most Everest routes. Anyone reasonably fit can complete the Poon Hill or Base Camp treks.
Altitude is often less of a problem while in this region. The Base Camp trail tops out at 4,130 m, so with a sensible pace the risk of altitude sickness is lower than on the Everest routes. The Annapurna Circuit is the exception. It crosses Thorong La at 5,416 m and needs proper acclimatisation in Manang.
Below are some treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal:
Annapurna Circuit (12 to 21 days)
A long, high and demanding route, the Annapurna Circuit Trek runs counter-clockwise through the Lamjung, Manang and Mustang districts, crossing Thorong La (5,416 m) between Manang and Muktinath. Roads now reach both sides of the pass, so many trekkers use the alternative NATT trails to stay off the jeep track. Ideal for trekkers with two to three weeks to spare.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek (7-14 days)
The Annapurna base camp trek is the complete blend of the relatively easy trail with beautiful landscapes leading to spectacular scenery. Within the few days of the trek, you will be able to view the marvellous range of Himalayan vista, including Annapurna III (7,555 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m),Gangapurna (7,454 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Singu Chuli (6,501 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m) and Baraha Shikhar (7,647 m). If you add Poon Hill on the way in, you also get Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Tukuche (6,920 m) and Nilgiri South (6,839 m).
Like any other trip in the Annapurna region, ABC trek also begins from Pokhara. On the way it passes through cascading waterfalls, beautiful villages, terraced farmlands, lush rhododendron forests, and amazing mountain vistas. Finally, reaching the base of the mighty Annapurna.
Our 14-day Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from USD 1,000, and a 7-day version from USD 565 suits short holidays. If you are torn between this and Everest, read ABC or EBC first.
Jomsom Muktinath Trek (5-13 days)
A moderate to simple trek in the Mustang district, north of the Annapurna Range. The trek has striking views of Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri and follows the Kali Gandaki, often called the world's deepest gorge. Muktinath temple sits at about 3,710 m.
The Royal Trek (3-4 days)
One of the shortest and most straightforward treks in Nepal, the Royal trek follows the route walked by Prince Charles in 1980 and gets its name from that trip. It stays below about 1,800 m. Incredible for trekkers who have restricted time and are searching for a light and simple trekking background.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (3-5 days)
A short, yet excellent trek that now usually starts with a drive from Pokhara past Nayapul to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri. A generally simple trek, with a highest point of 3,210 meters at Poon Hill, above Ghorepani (2,860 m). Our 4-day trip starts from USD 300.
Upper Mustang Trek (10-17 days)
The Upper Mustang Trek heads north from Jomsom and Kagbeni into the old kingdom of Lo, ending at the walled town of Lo Manthang (about 3,840 m). Perfect for those hoping to see the Tibetan culture of Mustang, closed to foreigners until 1992.
It is a restricted area. The permit costs USD 50 per person per day, plus the ACAP fee, and a licensed guide is required. Because it sits in the rain shadow, Upper Mustang is one of the few treks that works in the monsoon. See our Upper Mustang permit guide and monsoon trekking guide.
4. Manaslu Region
Arranged in the focal point of Nepal, the Manaslu Region includes both the Manaslu and Ganesh Himals. The Ganesh Himal is a cluster of peaks that forms a natural border with Tibet to the north. Further west is the huge summit of Manaslu (8,163 meters), the eighth highest mountain in the world.
Aside from the striking normal magnificence of the locale, the region is culturally varied, from Gurung villages in the lower Budhi Gandaki to Tibetan Buddhist settlements such as Samagaon (3,530 m) higher up.
Various trek varieties and trails are accessible, yet the most popular is the Manaslu Circuit Trek, usually 12 to 16 days, which crosses Larke La at 5,106 m. Some consider the Manaslu Circuit the best trek in Nepal. Perfect for fit trekkers who already have a teahouse trek behind them.
Manaslu is a restricted area. In autumn (September to November) the permit is USD 100 for the first 7 days and USD 15 a day after that, and USD 75 plus USD 10 a day the rest of the year. On top of that come the Manaslu and Annapurna conservation area fees (NPR 3,000 each) and a compulsory licensed guide. Our 14-day Manaslu Circuit trek starts from USD 1,235. More in the Manaslu permits guide and how hard the Manaslu Circuit is.
5. Langtang Region
Gosaikunda Lake- Langtang Region
Access in October 2026: the 26 August 2026 Rasuwa flood took out bridges at Betrawati and Syabrubesi and closed the road to the usual Langtang trailheads. A Bailey bridge at Betrawati has reconnected the road to Dhunche and Thulo Syabru, and TAAN reopened the region for trekking on 22 October 2026. Check the latest in our Nepal flood 2026 trekking update before you book. Helambu, reached from Sundarijal on the Kathmandu side, is not affected.
Langtang Valley Trek (7-12 days)
Langtang Valley is a narrow sandwich valley, north from Kathmandu. Also known as the valley of glaciers, it is one of the few glorious treks in Nepal. Langtang valley offers pine woodland, swift mountain streams, rugged rocks, and snow-capped pinnacles, and grassy meadows with daisies and wild animals. It offers great mountain scenery along the way with the beautiful forest of Rhododendron and bamboo, gorgeous waterfalls, and the colossal Langtang river.
A well-known trek through the Langtang National Park (1,710 km2, the second biggest national park in Nepal). This trek commonly starts from Syabrubesi (about 1,460 m) and climbs the valley to Kyanjin Gompa (about 3,870 m), with a day hike up Kyanjin Ri (about 4,773 m), before retracing the way back. Perfect for amateur or moderate trekkers.
Gosainkunda Trek (10-14 days)
Gosaikunda Trek is one of the famous treks in Nepal due to the proximity it shares with the capital city – Kathmandu and the astounding landscapes it offers.
Gosaikunda is an alpine freshwater lake in Nepal's Langtang National Park, located at an altitude of 4,380 m (14,370 ft) in the Rasuwa District of Nepal. It is regarded as a popular trek that boasts impressive views of mountains and pristine lakes.
This trek displays perfectly placed terraced slopes, the diversity in ethnic groups, splendid waterfalls flowing over massive boulders, rare wild animals and a wide range of flora and fauna.
The trail traverses through the thick forest of rhododendron, oak, bamboo and fascinating villages of Tamang and Sherpa people. This trek offers alluring views of Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Naya Kanga and Langshisa Ri.
Helambu Trek (7-10 days)
About 80km far from Kathmandu, Helambu is a region of highland villages in Nepal. Because of its proximity to Kathmandu and exquisite beauty, it is quite popular among the trekkers traveling in short time.
It is simple yet one of the finest trekking routes which introduce us to the Hyolmo culture of high mountain and transverse through the scenic trail full of green rhododendron and bamboo forests, cascading waterfalls, and outstanding Mountain views making it one of the most rewarding treks near Kathmandu. Along the way, you will enjoy the famous sweet apples of this region and Buddhist monasteries.
You can also enjoy spectacular panoramic views of mountains including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, waterfalls and snowcapped great Himalayans at the border of Tibet and monasteries alongside the distant views of peaks in the Everest region make the Helambu trek more interesting.
6. Khumbu/Everest Region
Photo: Gateway to Mera Peak
The Everest district, or Khumbu, is situated in the Northeast of Nepal and its Sagarmatha National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. A large portion of the region lies above 3,000 meters.
The district is excellent on all scales. Three of the six highest mountains in the world stand on its rim (Everest, Lhotse and Cho Oyu), and Makalu, the fifth, is in plain view from the high ridges.
Everest Base Camp Trek (14-16 days)
A very famous trek for evident reasons, the Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate but high trek passing through the Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) and Tengboche Monastery (3,867 m), the most important Buddhist centre in Khumbu.
Everest base camp trek falls under one of the most popular treks in Nepal. Gateway to the highest mountain in the world, it is the most sought-after trekking destination in the world. The base camp flaunts a magnificent up-close view of Mount Everest. In addition, it also opens up to the splendid views of other peaks such as Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu and Ama Dablam.
Our 14-day trek, from USD 1,620, starts from the classic starting point of most treks in the Everest region, Lukla (2,860 m). The trek itself is very diverse with varying landscapes of lush green meadows, dense forests to close up views of pristine mastiffs. Passing through Sherpa villages, the difficulty of the trek depends upon the number of days and the route.
Anyone physically fit can complete the trek to Everest base camp. Altitude is often the problem while on this trek. Base camp sits at 5,364 m and Kala Patthar, the usual viewpoint, at 5,545 m. Risks of altitude sickness are very high in case the length of the trek is inadequate without ample time for acclimatization. People with respiratory problems must consult their doctor before heading out on this trek while others on the trek must remain adequately hydrated.
Permits here are the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality card (NPR 3,000) and the Sagarmatha National Park fee (NPR 3,000). The Everest region does not use TIMS. For the full rules, see our permit hub and the note on solo trekking in the Everest region.
Makalu Barun Trek (18-22 days)
A long and strenuous climb (particularly the subsequent half) takes trekkers through the Makalu-Barun National Park east of the Khumbu, which houses the fifth highest mountain in the world, Makalu (8,485 meters).
Makalu Barun is the third largest national park in Nepal, about 1,500 square kilometres, and runs from about 400 m in the Arun valley to the 8,485 m summit of Makalu. Few people live inside the park, and it is one of the least visited trekking areas in Nepal. Makalu Base Camp sits at about 4,870 m.
The Makalu Barun National Park, established in 1992, is located in the Barun Valley. This park spreads in two districts Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha. The Makalu Barun park also takes in Mera Peak (6,476 m), one of the most famous trekking peaks in Nepal. Makalu Barun area is home to rhododendrons, orchids, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Musk Deer, Wild Boar, Himalayan Tahr, and around 440 bird species.
Birders also look for the spiny babbler, the one bird found only in Nepal, in the scrub of the lower hills. Entry is NPR 3,000 and a TIMS card, with a licensed guide. Our guides on Makalu Barun National Park and how to reach it have the detail.
Anyone intending to head for this trek must be physically fit. For people with respiratory problems, it is advisable to consult a doctor before heading for this trek, as with the increase in altitude risk of altitude sickness also rises.
Mera Peak
Mera peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal. Mera Peak, at 6,476 m, is one of the most sought-after peaks for beginner mountaineers in Nepal. Our Mera Peak climbing guide covers the routes and the NMA permit.
After a quick flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the Mera peak adventure gets underway. We ascend from Lukla over steep hills and valleys to the chilly mountain range. Climbing Mera Peak, which is arduously located on the edge of the Khumbu area, is a fantastic way to experience trekking in Nepal's Himalayan region.
It comprises a culturally enlightening journey through hidden lovely villages and beautiful woods, which is followed by the ascent of the magnificent Mera peak. The climb of Mera comes after a week or more of trekking through the Hinku valley. It is not technically demanding, but the altitude makes this a thrilling and tough journey.
One must be in good physical condition to do this excursion because the path varies in difficulty from moderate to challenging. The likelihood of getting altitude sickness rises as the height does as well. Before doing this walk, anyone with respiratory conditions should speak with their doctor. Altitude sickness will be less of an issue with enough time to acclimate and with good water.
Island Peak
Island Peak is an exhilarating experience in the Himalayas of Nepal, designed for energetic and physically fit trekkers with little or no experience in mountain expedition.
Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) also known as Imja Tse is one of the main climbing peaks in the Everest Region of Nepal with an impressive West Face rising from the Lhotse Glacier. Being one of the 'trekking peaks' with very little technical aspects, Island Peak is not a difficult undertaking for a beginner climber wishing to enter the incredible world of mountain climbing.
The trek to Island peak starts from Lukla, which is also known as the gateway to the Everest region.
Our 18-day itinerary follows the Everest Base Camp trail and visits base camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) to acclimatise before the summit day. It starts from USD 2,495. This climb to Island peak is full of excitement, thrill, adventure and memories that last forever.
7. Kanchenjunga Region
Home to immense rhododendron timberlands and the third most astounding mountain on the planet, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), this far eastern locale of Nepal is remote, tough and delightful.
Kanchenjunga region is known for big mountains and valleys divided into two sections. The southwest face and edges, around Yalung, and the north face where the Kanchenjunga Base Camp is arranged.
Treks vary in the region, but most trekkers enter through Taplejung. The most well-known trek in the district is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the remotest treks in Nepal, it is considered an ideal trekking route in eastern Nepal. Kanchenjunga is the world’s third-highest peak at 8,586 m, and the area opened to foreign trekkers in the late 1980s (most sources say 1988). The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area followed in 1997. This trek is rather long and requires an abundance of time and a sense of adventure. Kanchenjunga trek is a natural haven for those who seek diversity in flora and fauna besides the flabbergasting sceneries of the mountain.
This is one of the longest standard treks in Nepal, usually 20 to 28 days for both base camps. It runs from cardamom farms at the lowest altitude to a panoramic view of the mountains and the Yalung Glacier higher up. Besides Kanchenjunga, you see Kumbhakarna (Jannu), Kirat Chuli, Nepal Peak, Pathibhara and Chang Himal along the way.
North Base Camp at Pangpema sits at about 5,143 m, and the South Base Camp viewpoint at Oktang at about 4,730 m. Permits are a restricted area permit of USD 20 per person per week for the first four weeks and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area fee (NPR 2,000). No TIMS is needed, a licensed guide is, and single trekkers can get the permit since 22 March 2026. Our Kanchenjunga permit guide has the full rules.
8. Far West and Karnali Region
Probably less heard of due to its fairly remote geography and poor infrastructures, the far west region is one of the most exemplary and off the beaten trekking route in Nepal.
The Far West Region of Nepal is regularly ignored because of its fairly remote geographic area and poor framework. That is slowly changing as roads push further in.
The area offers a kind of trekking that is hard to find in the other regions.
It takes in Humla in the north, Nepal's second largest district, which belongs to Karnali Province, and Darchula, Bajhang and Bajura in Sudurpashchim Province.
Trekking courses are as yet undeveloped and rural in the area, with little in the method for built-up convenience and accessibility of staples. These qualities give the area the feel that travellers must have known in the mid-1950s, when Nepal first opened to the outside world.
In the event that you are hoping to get away from the groups and experience an immaculate situation, at that point the Far West district is for you. The Limi Valley Trek in Humla is the most well-known in the area. Humla is a restricted area (USD 50 for the first week, then USD 10 a day).
Rara National Park
Rara National Park, established in 1976, is an area of incredible natural beauty. It lies in the North-west of the country in a remote area called Karnali and houses Rara Lake (about 2,990 m), Nepal’s largest lake at about 10.8 km2. The park fee is NPR 3,000.
Alike to the treks in the Far Western Region, there are a number of trek variations, but the most popular is the Rara Lake trek, a 7 to 14 day hike that provides an ‘off-the-beaten’ track experience characterized by pristine natural beauty, snow-capped Himalaya peaks.
The route is very close to the untrodden and explores a widely different culture and scenery from the rest of Nepal. The park also provides the best opportunity to view wildlife like musk deer, thar, Himalayan black bear, leopards, ghoral and, if you are lucky, the red panda.
Khaptad National Park, in Sudurpashchim, is a gentler option: grassy plateaus at about 3,000 m and the ashram of the late Khaptad Baba. Our Khaptad trek and Rara Lake trek pages list departures.
Willing to take one of these treks? Remember Swotah Travel for your trek partner.
Whichever region you choose, sort the paperwork first: our complete trekking permits guide lists every TIMS, conservation, and restricted-area fee for 2026, and the complete guide to trekking in Nepal covers gear, guides, and seasons.
Nepal Trekking Routes: FAQs
Which trekking region in Nepal is best for beginners?
Annapurna. Poon Hill takes 3 to 5 days and tops out at 3,210 m, and Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) is a good next step. Everest Base Camp is also fine for fit beginners, but it goes higher, to 5,364 m, and needs more acclimatisation.
What is the most remote trekking region in Nepal?
Dolpo and the far west, including Humla and the Limi Valley. Both need flights to small airstrips, restricted area permits and, on some routes, camping. Kanchenjunga and Makalu are close behind.
Which Nepal treks can you do in the monsoon?
The rain-shadow treks north of the main Himalaya: Upper Mustang, Dolpo and Nar Phu. Our monsoon trekking guide compares them.
Do I need a guide to trek in Nepal?
On most routes, yes. A licensed guide has been compulsory since 1 April 2023, and restricted areas such as Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo and Kanchenjunga also need a registered agency. In the Everest region the rule is not enforced on the ground.
Is Langtang open in October 2026?
The road still does not reach Syabrubesi, which the 26 August 2026 flood cut off, so Langtang treks start from Thulo Syabru. Access is on foot across the Betrawati crossing and then by jeep, or through Helambu from Sundarijal. Read the flood trekking update for the latest.
