Hiking Nepal: Unparalleled mountain trails

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal is a much-loved destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The region offers the perfect combination of outdoor adventure opportunities, potential wildlife encounters and immersive cultural experiences.

The mountainous landscape offers unparalleled hiking trails, including the journey up the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. For those in search of less-intense hiking heights, there are thousands of hiking trails to choose from, including plenty of low-level paths that don’t require the guidance of a local Sherpa.

From its awe-inspiring natural beauty to the learning opportunities awaiting in the traditions and customs of local village communities, Nepal has a huge amount to offer hikers. Let’s take a look at some of the top hiking routes and the benefits you can expect from a hiking holiday in Nepal.

Take on the classic Everest Base Camp trek

Of course, the iconic Everest Base Camp trek comes top of the list. No trip to Nepal would be complete without a visit to the world’s highest mountain, and if you are up for the challenge, a trek to the base camp is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not to be missed. It might sound daunting, but the trek to basecamp isn’t an extreme hike. For those who have a good level of fitness and stamina, it is a realistic challenge, with relatively well-established paths (and suspension bridges!) along the way.

The trek to the base camp is usually completed over nine days, giving hikers time to acclimatise to the altitude (which reaches 5500m at the high point). There are two rest days, where hikers can experience Sherpa culture and hospitality at the small villages with comfortable lodges called teahouses. There is plenty of time to stop, soak up the atmosphere and appreciate the breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse during the trek.

Cross forests and deserts with the Annapurna Circuit

The next top choice for hikers in Nepal is often the Annapurna Circuit. This trek encircles the Annapurna Massif and usually takes trekkers between 12 and 21 days, depending on the route they opt for. It is a classic route that takes visitors from lush subtropical forests to arid alpine deserts, with rivers to cross and villages to pass through on the journey. The views are simply phenomenal and there are plenty of opportunities to interact with local communities during the hike. At 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), you will pass the Thorong La Pass, that is one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

Like many routes in Nepal, it is a teahouse trek, which means visitors stay in guesthouses at villages along the way, instead of camping. Because of its popularity, visitors will likely be sharing the paths with other hikers. Be aware that the trucks in the region have very loud horns that play tunes – something that not all hikers have appreciated on their adventure, yet!

Reach new heights at Langtang Valley

For a less crowded experience, consider the Langtang Valley trek. This route, considered moderate difficulty, is less challenging than the longer hikes and usually takes between five and seven days. Also, it is quite close to the capital city Kathmandu. The region is renowned for its pristine forests and alpine meadows, and winds around picture-perfect lakes and glaciers. The high point is around 5,000m (a little more or a little less, depending on which viewpoint you aim for) and it involves a fairly quick ascent.

One of the highlights of the Langtang Valley trek is Kyanging Gompa, a picturesque Buddhist monastery located at an altitude of 3,870 meters. Like with other treks in the region, hikers stop again at teahouses in the villages along the way, and enjoy the luxury of a bed and blanket at night, and even showers for the morning. Thanks to its route through Langtang National Park, it offers fantastic opportunities to experience Nepal’s unique plant and animal life – you might even get a glimpse of the elusive red panda!

Bask in the beautiful sunrise at Poon Hill

For those looking for an easier trek in Nepal, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek might be the perfect choice. With incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, the trek takes you through rhododendron forests and traditional mountain villages before reaching the viewpoint of Poon Hill. It doesn’t require significant hiking experience and, in total, it usually takes four or five days to complete.

Like other treks in Nepal, hikers on the Ghorepani Poon Hill route will rest in teahouses at villages along the route, so no camping equipment is necessary. At Poon Hill, visitors can experience panoramic views over the mountains at sunrise, as the light paints a jaw-dropping landscape of golds and pinks.

Making your Nepal trip a conscious one

The world’s highest mountain range is a natural wonder worth protecting. The incredible ecosystem is home to a great array of unique flora and fauna and, given the sheer number of visiting tourists, it is vital that visitors take care to leave no trace of their travels to ensure the species’ survival. In the recent past there has been a lot of uproar about pollution and overcrowding.

Whatever you are taking on your trek in Nepal, you must bring it back with you. Bins are few and far between but to protect the precious ecosystems, taking your litter with you until you can dispose of it responsibly is one of the most important steps you can take to minimise your impact on the environment when hiking in Nepal.

Here are some top tips for an environmental-friendly trekking experience in Nepal:

• Take a refillable water bottle
• Use eco-friendly cosmetics and toiletries
• Respect the local traditions and customs; ask permission before taking photographs of people and dress modestly
• Learn some Nepali phrases so you can communicate with local people
• Support local communities, but don’t buy plastic bags and other products that are damaging to the environment
• Conserve water, particularly at higher altitudes where supply might be limited
• Always stick to the designated paths and keep your distance from all wildlife

Reach the top of the world hiking in Nepal

Hiking in Nepal is an unforgettable experience, guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime. With numerous routes of varying difficulties to choose from in the heart of the Himalayas, hikers are spoilt for choice. Wherever they venture, they are sure to experience unparalleled natural beauty over the towering snow-capped mountains. Whether you’re circumnavigating the Annapurna Massif or watching the sunrise from Poon Hill, Nepal has something to offer for every outdoor enthusiast.

The pristine landscapes are appreciated by many thousands of visitors from around the world every year. To support the local ecosystems and ensure the unique trails can be enjoyed by future generations, it is vital that hikers prepare for their trip with the planet in mind. Prepare for a mindful hiking trip and leave no trace on the majestic mountains.