10 permit-free trekking destinations for solo trekkers in Nepal

The Nepal Tourism Board has implemented the "Tourist Information Management System (TIMS) Regulations 2079" and has officially prohibited solo trekking, effective from April 1st, 2023. Consequently, the Free Individual Trekkers (FIT) card has been terminated, and all trekkers must now obtain a TIMS card through a registered trekking company and hire a guide to trek in Nepal.

 

Important:

The Everest region does not mandate a "no solo trekkers" rule. However, those wishing to take on a solo trek to iconic destinations of this region, like Everest Base Camp, must obtain a permit called the TREK card. The Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality issues the TREK CARD, which can be easily obtained at the Lukla counter for those traveling by air or in Jorsale for those traveling by land. The trek card costs Rs 2,000 in addition to the entry fee for Sagarmatha National Park (SNP).

 

However, some permit-free trekking destinations in Nepal can still be visited without any permits, TIMS cards, or guides. Here are 10 of Nepal's best permit-free trekking destinations for solo trekkers.

 

1. AmaYangri Peak

2. Pikey Peak

3. Panchase hill trek

4. Panch Pokhari

5. Balthali village trek

6. Khumai danda

7. Kori Danda / Himal

8. Mundhum trail

9. Khopra ridge trek

10. Sailung trek

 

Ama Yangri peak

The Ama Yangri Peak is another trekking destination that does not require any trekking permits. It is located in the Helambu region and has a height of 3771 m / 12372.05 ft. The plus points of the Ama Yangri are it is short (3 days) and beginner-friendly.

 

 

 

Trekkers get to see the beautiful Hyolmo culture and Sherpa tradition. The main mountain ranges visible in the trek are Langtang range, Everest, the Annapurna range, Ama Yangri peak ( it is one of the tallest peaks in Kathmandu ). The trail is full of terrific landscapes and green forests. Since it is not located very high up, there is a low risk of altitude sickness.

Pikey peak (4065 m / 13336.61 ft)

This Solukhumbu region trek is one of the most promising places for the absolute best view of Mt. Everest, along with other Himalayas. Typically the trek is completed within a week. 

 

The Pikey Peak trek is the perfect way to explore the lower region of Everest. One gets to get close to the culture, traditions, and cuisines of the Sherpas. 

 

 

This no-permit trekking destination boasts one of the most magnificent sunrises and panoramic views. The trail of the Pikey Peak trek is filled with rhododendron forests, small rivers, mani stone walls, and a deep valley right below the Jhapre village.

Panchase hill trek

The Panchase Bhanjyang is located 2 to 3 hours away from Banke. The altitude of the trek is 2030 m / 6660.105 ft. 

 

This trekking permit-free trek takes you to the Annapurna foothills. The journey’s highlight is the view of Annapurna Mountain (8091 m / 26545 ft), Machhapuchre Mountain (Fishtail) 6993 m / 22943 ft, Lamjung Mountain (6983 m / 22910 ft), Ganesh Himal (7422 m / 24350 ft), etc. 

 

 

It is one of the easiest treks that is suitable for all age groups and newbies. Many people do the Panchase Hill trek for the golden sunrise from Panchase Hill and Sarangkot. As the trek starts from the” city of lakes,” Pokhara, one gets to explore Pokhara alongside.

 

Panchpokhari trek (Panch: five and Pokhari: lake)

The panch pokhari is situated in the Sindhupalchowk district at an altitude of 4000+ m / 13123.36 ft. These five holy lakes are famous pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists around the world. 

 

The highlights of the panch pokhari trek are the rhododendron forest and the rich and vivid culture of Lama and Tamangs. The most awestruck views of the trek are the Jugal Himal range, Mahalangur range, and Rolwaling range.

 

 

 

 It does not have any provision for trekking permits. The duration of 3 to 4 days is more than enough the trek to be completed. The trails are not crowded as the beauty of Panchpokhari is yet to be well explored.

Balthali village trek

The Balthali village trek’s itinerary is filled with surprises. The trek starts from Dhulikhel and ends in Panauti. Balthali village is just 40 km / 24.8548 miles away from Kathmandu and is located at an altitude of  1730 m / 5675.853 ft. 

 

The trail comprises small villages, forests, and a sneak peek into the Himalayas. While trekking from Dhulikhel to Balthali, Namo Buddha greets you. It has a stupa that is built with respect for the Buddha hence, Namo Buddha is one of the holy sites for the Buddhists. 

 

 

Returning back traveling from Balthali to Panauti, one gets to explore the stunning Newari architecture, Newari cuisine, and traditions. The Balthali village trek is the least tiring trek hence, perfect for family treks beginner friendly.

 

Khumai danda trek

Khumai Danda trek is one of the most underrated treks of Nepal in the Annapurna region. It has started to gain popularity these days for its unreal view throughout the year. 

 

The highest altitude of the Khumai danda trek is 3245 m / 10646.33 ft. Trails are peaceful hence, perfect for people who want solitude. While on the Khumai Danda trek, one gets to prospect the wildflowers and wildlife of the Annapurna. 

 

 

The mountainous view of the trek includes Mt. Machhapuchre (6993 m / 22943 ft), Mt. Lamjung (6983 m / 22910 ft), Mt.Annapurna (8091 m / 26545 ft), Mt.Dhaulagiri (8167 m / 26795 ft), etc.

Kori Danda trek (Kapuche glacier lake)

The Kori Danada trek takes you to central Nepal (Annapurna and Manaslu regions). Even though it is part of the Annapurna region as of now trekking permits are not mandatory. 

 

Kapuche Lake is the Glacial lake with the lowest altitude in the world. The peaceful view of different animals grazing, and the big open fields around are what Kori danda is known for. Gurungs are the most primitive inhabitants of this region therefore, one gets close to Gurung culture and lifestyle. The maximum altitude that one trek to is 3800 m / 12467.19 ft. 

 

 

Kori Danda top flaunts views of mountains like Machhapuchre, Annapurna II, Lamjung Himlal, etc. The Kori Danda Kapuche Lake trek is idle for trekkers with all experience levels from zero experience level to the experts.

Mundhum trail trek (Salpa Silicho trekking)

The Mundhum trek is the least explored gem of eastern Nepal. It is the gateway to the Kirant civilization, so history enthusiasts, this one’s for you. This trekking trail flaunts the sight mountain ranges of Nepal as well as China: Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586 m / 28169 ft), Mt.Everest(8848.86 m / 29031 ft 8.5 inch ), and Mt.Shishapangma (China)  8027 m / 26335 ft.

 

This is probably the best permit-free trek to get in touch with nature as you see forests of Bamboo and rhododendrons, rare animals like Red Pandas, Thar, Musk deer, and many more, small lakes, rivers, etc. The Mudhum trail trek is equally rich in cultural and historical places like Panchadevi, Kalikasath, Bhairavnath, Maratika Gompa, Murdhum Cave, Mahadev Cave, etc. However, this trek falls on the harder side; hence, beginners should be careful before opting for it.

Khopra danda trek / Khopra ridge trek

Yet another Annapurna conservation area trek that is permitless! The Khopra Danda is situated on the border of the Myagdi and Kaski districts at an altitude of 3640 m. The main attraction of the Khopra Ridge trek is the stunning view of Mt.Dhaulagiri (8167 m / 26795 ft), Khayer Lake, tatopani ( if you choose to return through the tatopani trail ), uncrowded trails,etc. 

 

The highest region of the Khopra danda trek is Khayer Lake, which is 4600 m / 15091.86 ft above sea level. Although it is not considered a difficult trek beginners are suggested to be physically active and do small hikes before attempting Khopra.

Sailung trek

Sailung village is located in the Dolakha district of Nepal. It is just about 7 hours drive away from Kathmandu. Silung gets its name from the 100 hills surrounding it as the word sai means 100 and lung means hill.  

 

Sailung trek is not only one of the easiest but also the only trek that offers the sight of 5 different Mountainous regions namely: the Everest region, the Langtang region, the Annapurna region, the Rolwaling region, and the Ganesh Himal region. Mt. Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft ), Mt. AmaDablam (6812 m/ 22349 ft), Mt.Makalu (the fifth highest mountain in the world ) 8481 m / 27825ft, Mt. Dorje Lakpa (6966 m / 22854 ft ), Mt. Gauri Shankar (7134 m / 23406 ft), Mt. Ganesh (7422 m / 24350 ft), etc, are some of the mountains that come into sight on the Sailung trek. 

 

Since you trek to a village itself the trek is a great doorway to the village lifestyle and its different cultural practices and ethnic groups (mainly Tamang and Sherpa).

 

Sailung Trek’s trail does not have ample teahouses or lodges; therefore, you will need to do camping. The trail is full of lush forests, 600-year-old monasteries, farmlands, different animals, etc. The highest altitude that trek takes you to is 3146 m / 10321.52 ft; therefore, there are minimal chances of getting altitude sickness. Therefore an age-friendly and beginner-friendly trek.

There are many other trekking destinations in Nepal that do not require trekking permits, namely Champadevi (  Champadevi hill is situated on the southeast side of Kathmandu and from its top, you see a breathtaking panoramic view), Guerilla trek ( this no-permit trek falls more on the adventurous side and not idle for the beginners ).