Panoramic view of the Himalayan mountains, ideal for beginner treks in Nepal.

20 Best Himalayan Treks For Beginners

20 Best Himalayan treks for beginners in Nepal give you a manageable hiking experience along with breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. Nepal is a country known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. With numerous trekking destinations available, Nepal provides everything for experienced to beginners trekkers. To experience this beautiful country, over 1000 people visit it every year.

All the beginner-friendly trekking destinations in Nepal provide you with well-marked and well-managed trails. With a moderate level of elevation gain, most of the Himalayan treks for beginners are easy to complete. Depending upon your pace and physical fitness, you can consider any of the trekking destinations in Nepal. We assure you that no matter what you choose, you will be amazed by the beauty of Nepal. Also, you can indulge yourself in understanding the local culture and traditions.

Although the beginner trek does not require extensive hiking, it still has some difficulties. You may sometimes get altitude sickness, making you descend quickly. Similarly, the unpredictability of the weather here causes challenges, making your hiking somewhat difficult. Furthermore, most beginner trekking in Nepal takes a few days to hike. You may not get enough chances to have a better immersion in Nepal’s natural beauty and landscapes.

Why the Himalayan Trek In Nepal?

  • Stunning Scenery: You will experience breathtaking views of towering snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and picturesque landscapes that define the Himalayas.
  • Cultural Immersion: Nepal also gives you the best chance to explore diverse local cultures and traditions. Also, the people here are friendly, giving you home-like feelings.
  • Natural Beauty: You will be surrounded by pristine nature, from dense forests and serene lakes to rugged mountain terrain, offering endless photo opportunities and moments of awe.
  • Variety of Treks: Nepal has over 100 trekking destinations catering to all levels. Some of the beginner-friendly treks provide you with manageable trails.
  • Adventure and Challenge: You will have the opportunity to challenge yourself and enjoy the thrill of high-altitude trekking, even on easier routes.
  • Unique Wildlife: You might spot unique Himalayan wildlife, including exotic birds, Himalayan tahr, and possibly even snow leopards.

1. Everest Base Camp Trek

Altitude: 5,364 meters
Trekking Days: 14 days
Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Cost: $1060 per person

Located in the Khumbu region of Nepal, the starting point of the Everest Base Camp Trek is Lukla. It is one of the best Himalayan treks you can choose. Taking this trek, you will pass through a well-defined route, making your way through beautiful Sherpa villages, lush forests, and high-altitude passes. Some of the major stops of this trek are Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep, finally leading up to Everest Base Camp Trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek.webp

The EBC trek is considered to be the best beginner-friendly trek, taking you to the foothills of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. With the moderate level of challenges involved, some of the difficulties include high altitude passes and unpredictable weather. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience Sherpa culture.

Highlights:

  • Iconic trek to the base of Mount Everest
  • Stunning views of Everest and surrounding peaks
  • Cultural experiences with Sherpa communities
  • Visit famous Everest viewpoints like Kalapatthar

2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Altitude: 3,210 meters
Trekking Days: 5 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $290 per person 

The second most popular destination for trekking in Nepal for beginners is the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. It is in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek starts from Nayapul, and you will make your way through picturesque villages like Ghorepani and Tadapani. Throughout the trail, you will witness the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagari mountain ranges.

Taking this trek, you will enjoy the beautiful landscapes and culture of the region without any harsh and extreme challenges. Although the trekking days are short, you will be amazed by the beautiful views the place without any physical strain. Also, the trek allows you to have proper acclimatization days with well-marked trails, thus making it ideal for new trekkers.

Highlights:

  • Stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill
  • Scenic Gurung and Magar villages
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Easy and accessible trek from Pokhara

3. Annapurna Circuit Trek

Altitude: 5,416 meters
Trekking Days: 12 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $870 per person

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, starting in Besisahar and circling around the Annapurna Massif. The route takes you through lush valleys, terraced fields, and high-altitude desert terrain. Key stops include Manang, Thorong La Pass, and Jomsom, with the highest point being Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).

Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna Circuit.webp

This trek is suitable for beginners with some trekking experience due to its gradual ascent and well-established path. Although it involves crossing a high pass, the trek is manageable with proper acclimatization and preparation. If you are a beginner and looking for a relatively long but easy trekking trail, this trekking can be the best option along with great views and friendly people.

Highlights:

  • Crossing the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes
  • Diverse landscapes ranging from lush subtropical forests to arid high-altitude deserts
  • Cultural experiences in various ethnic villages
  • Spectacular views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges

4. Langtang Valley Trek

Altitude: 3,430 meters
Trekking Days: 8 days

Permits: TIMS and Langtang National Park Permit

Cost: $690 per person

The Langtang Valley Trek is a fantastic option if you are looking for a trek close to Kathmandu. Starting from Syabrubesi, you will pass through lush forests, charming villages, and stunning mountain scenery. When you reach the Lama Hotel and Kyanjin Gompa, you will be amazed by the view of Langtang Lirung and other peaks.

This trek is perfect for beginners because it doesn’t reach extremely high altitudes and follows a well-marked path. The trail offers gradual ascend. Thus, the chance of getting altitude sickness is relatively low. Enjoy this trekking trail, which not only offers you with beautiful surrounding landscapes and views of the Himalayas but will also amaze you with the friendly nature of local people.

Highlights:

  • Beautiful valley surrounded by towering peaks
  • Rich cultural experiences with Tamang communities
  • Scenic views of Langtang Lirung and other peaks
  • Lush forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers

5. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Altitude: 4,130 meters
Trekking Days: 8 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $590 per person

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Nayapul and takes you through beautiful landscapes up to the base camp of Annapurna Mountain. Along the way, you will walk through rhododendron forests and terraced fields and stay in friendly mountain lodges. The trek takes you to the base camp of the 10th highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek.webp 2

If you are ever planning to trek to Nepal, then you can opt for this one. After the Everest Base Camp trek, this is another popular trekking route offering you with best trails and better accommodations available. Furthermore, the trek is not overly demanding, and the views are incredibly rewarding. You will get to experience the majestic mountains and local culture without facing extreme challenges.

Highlights:

  • Close-up views of Annapurna and Machapuchare
  • Beautiful terraced fields, dense forests, and alpine meadows
  • Stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna range
  • Relatively short and manageable trek

6. Annapurna Panorama Trek

Altitude: 3,210 meters
Trekking Days: 9 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $810 per person

The Annapurna Panorama Trek starts from Nayapul and showcases stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trek includes beautiful spots like Ghorepani and Poon Hill, known for their panoramic sunrise views over the Himalayas.

As a beginner, you may find this trek more appealing. Although the trek is not very short, with about 11 days of hiking, it is less demanding than other longer trekking routes. With the gentle level of ascends and manageable daily hiking distance, this trek can be the perfect option for newcomers. You can experience the grandeur of the Annapurna region without the intensity of a more challenging trek.

Highlights:

  • Panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Scenic trek through rhododendron forests and traditional villages
  • Ideal for those with limited time but seeking great views
  • Short and relatively easy trek from Pokhara

7. Langtang Gosainkunda Helambu Trek

Altitude: 4,610 meters
Trekking Days: 19 days
Permits: TIMS and Langtang National Park Permit

Cost: $980 per person

The Langtang Gosainkunda Helambu Trek combines three fantastic regions in one adventure. Starting in the Langtang Valley, you will move towards the sacred Gosainkunda Lake and then continue through the Helambu region. The trek offers diverse landscapes, from lush forests to high-altitude lakes.

Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Trek
Gosaikunda Langtang Valley Trek.webp

One of the most attractive features of this trek is the number of different experiences you can get as a beginner. With gradual ascends and relatively easy trails, the trek offers you stunning views of various Himalayan regions and the friendly nature of people. The new trekkers are at ease as you do not require more fitness.

Highlights:

  • Combination of Langtang Valley, sacred Gosaikunda Lake, and Helambu region
  • Rich cultural experiences with Tamang and Sherpa communities
  • Scenic views of Langtang Lirung and surrounding peaks
  • Sacred lakes and Buddhist monasteries

8. Helambu Trek

Altitude: 3,640 meters
Trekking Days: 8 days
Permits: TIMS and Langtang National Park Permit

Cost: $550 per person

The Helambu Trek begins just outside Kathmandu and takes you through the picturesque Helambu region. Similar to other trails, you will walk through lush forests and charming traditional villages while enjoying beautiful mountain views. Some of the major stops of the place include Melamchi Gaon and Tarke Ghyang.

Considered to be a good option for beginner trekkers with no prior experience, the trek offers a relatively short duration and manageable difficulty level. The gentle ascents and well-marked trails make it easier for those new to trekking to acclimate and enjoy the journey. With fewer altitude-related challenges, you can focus on the serene landscapes and rich cultural encounters without feeling overwhelmed by the trek’s demands.

Highlights:

  • Scenic trek through the Helambu region with beautiful mountain views
  • Cultural experiences in Sherpa and Tamang villages
  • Rich biodiversity and lush forests
  • Ideal for those looking for a less crowded trek

9. Pikey Peak Trek

Altitude: 4,065 meters
Trekking Days: 5 days
Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Cost: $459 per person

The Pikey Peak Trek starts from Dhap and offers a diverse trekking experience through terraced fields, dense forests, and charming villages. The highlight of the trek is reaching Pikey Peak. Upon standing here, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, and other majestic Himalayan peaks.

For beginners, this trek stands out because of its quieter, less crowded trails and gradual ascent. It is moderately difficult to make the trek accessible while still providing stunning mountain vistas and cultural insights. The well-defined path and relatively gentle climbs allow you to enjoy the adventure without the intense physical challenges of higher-altitude treks.

Highlights:

  • Breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu
  • Cultural experiences with the local Sherpa community
  • Off-the-beaten-path trek with fewer crowds
  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views from Pikey Peak

10. Ghandruk Trek

Altitude: 2,000 meters
Trekking Days: 3 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $280 per person

The Ghandruk Trek begins from Nayapul and guides you through scenic terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages. Located in the Annapurna region, upon reaching here, you will witness the beautiful views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. Also, the place offers you with a deep understanding of Gurung culture and their traditional village architecture. 

Offering a relatively easy and short trekking route near Pokhara, this trek can be an excellent choice for beginners. If you want to add more adventure to it, you can also extend the trek towards Annapurna Base Camp or even the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. The trek to Ghandruk is well marked and maintained with gradual ascends and many stop points with multiple accommodations options.

Highlights:

  • Beautiful village with traditional Gurung culture
  • Views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli
  • Short and easy trek from Pokhara
  • Ideal for those seeking a quick Himalayan experience

11. Everest View Trek

Altitude: 3,880 meters
Trekking Days: 11 days
Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Cost: $990 per person

One of the most easiest trekking routes in the Everest region, the trek offers panoramic views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan mountains. It is the shortest version of Everest Base Camp Trek. This short hiking days trek will not just amaze you with its natural beauty but also with the friendly Sherpa people and their way of life. Taking this trek, you will make your way through the UNESCO world heritage site, Sagarmatha National Park. Thus, you can get to see diverse flora and fauna.

Everest View Trek
Everest View Trek.webp

Considered to be moderate trek, it is the perfect trekking route if you are new to it and want to explore the Everest Region with the views of the highest mountain in the world. The trails are well marked and also offer you with better accommodations and meal options. Starting from Lukla, you will pass through many remote villages and finally make it to Tengboche. Upon reaching here, you can witness the beautiful ancient monasteries.

Highlights:

  • Stunning views of Mount Everest and other high peaks
  • Cultural experiences with Sherpa communities
  • A short and relatively easy trek with spectacular views
  • Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery

12. Khumai Danda Trek

Altitude: 3,600 meters
Trekking Days: 4 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $340 per person

Located on the north side of Pokhara, the trek lies at the base of Machhapuchre. It is a part of the Machhapuchre Model Trek and can be completed within 3 to 4 days. To add more adventure to it, you can extend the trek to Mardi Himal. The major highlight of this trek is the sunrise over the Himalayas.

Some of the popular villages you will make your way through include Saripakha, Hile Kharka, and Mirsha. You will have a wonderful time taking this trail. With an easy level of difficulty and short hiking days, you can easily complete the Khumai Danda Trek without any difficulties. However, for a safer and more adventurous journey, we recommend you trek during the spring and autumn which are the best seasons. 

Highlights:

  • Scenic trek with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Explore traditional villages and rich cultural heritage
  • Lush forests, terraced fields, and beautiful landscapes
  • Less crowded and off-the-beaten-path trek

13. Mardi Himal Trek

Altitude: 4,500 meters
Trekking Days: 9 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $600 per person

The Mardi Himal Trek is another highly demanded trekking route in Nepal. The trek starts from Pokhara, making your way up to the Annapurna Region. It is a moderate adventure trip. You do not have to worry about any difficulties you may encounter, as they are all manageable. You will enjoy the stunning surrounding views from standing beneath Mount Machhapuchhre. 

Offering beautiful views of the Mardi Himal and Dhaulagiri ranges, you will pass through many remote villages, lush forests, and diverse landscapes. Even though this trekking route is not very popular compared to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, you can consider this trek if you are an adventure seeker and looking for an easy alternative for those two. With proper accommodations available, you will face less difficulty while trekking toward Mardi Himal.

Highlights:

  • Stunning views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna, and Machapuchare
  • Scenic trek through forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude terrain
  • Relatively short and less crowded than other Annapurna treks
  • Unique and diverse landscapes

14. Tamang Heritage Trek

Altitude: 3,300 meters
Trekking Days: 10 days
Permits: TIMS and Langtang National Park Permit

Cost: $600 per person

A little too long compared to some mentioned trekking destinations here, this trek is perfect for you if you want to learn about the culture and traditions of the people. Laying in the north of Kathmandu Valley, this trek is easily accessible from the capital city. The 10 days Tamang Heritage expedition offers you with a magical and attractive landscape while experiencing the cultural heritages. Most of the people residing here are Tamang.

While visiting here, you will witness some of the oldest monasteries, giving you an aesthetic experience. Some of the popular villages you will make your way through include Syabrubesi, Gatlang, Tatopani, Thuman Village, and Bridim Cultural Village. Providing proper acclimatization and accommodation facilities with well-marked trails, this trekking route is perfect if you are a beginner adventure enthusiasts and want to indulge in culture in-depth.

Highlights:

  • Cultural immersion in Tamang villages
  • Scenic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and other peaks
  • Rich local culture and traditional lifestyle
  • Beautiful landscapes with forests, terraced fields, and high meadows

15. Kori Himal Trek

Altitude: 3,800 meters
Trekking Days: 10 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $450 per person

Are you looking for a stunning trekking route in the Annapurna Region, except ABC and Annapurna Circuit Trek? Kori Himal is for you. Discovered recently, this trekking route provides you with stunning mountain views. Taking this trail, you will make your way through oak and rhododendron forests and diverse landscapes. The journey provides you with stunning views of Pokhara Valley, Sikles villages, and Tangting.

Throughout the journey, you will witness the views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Lamjung Ranges. With an easy to moderate level of difficulty involved, you can take this route if you are a beginner and want to experience the best trek along with beautiful views of the surroundings. You can also learn about the culture of Gurung and Ghale people here and understand the Buddhist culture in more detail if you choose this trekking route.

Highlights:

  • Stunning views of Annapurna ranges and Pokhara Valley
  • Diverse landscapes and ecosystems
  • Cultural experiences with Gurung and Ghale communities
  • Remote and less crowded trek

16. Rara Lake Trek

Altitude: 5351 meters
Trekking Days: 12 days
Permits: TIMS and Rara National Park Permit

Cost: $950 per person

Hands down, one of the most beautiful trekking routes in Nepal is Rara Lake. Taking you to the largest lake in Nepal, more than a thousand visitors take this route every year. The lake is beautifully surrounded by green hills and Rara National Park. Located in the northwest part of Nepal, the trekking route is quite remote, giving you the untouched beauty of Nepal Himalayas. The trek also offers you a chance to see animals like Himalayan Black Bear and Musk Deer.

Rara Lake Trek
Rara lake Trek.webp

The water in the lake is considered to be the bluest water in the world. Now, just imagine how beautiful it is. The Rara Lake trek is also the perfect place for you if you are looking for the less crowded and isolated region of Nepal. Also, this trek provides you with the unique culture and traditions of the people. With a moderate level of difficulty, this trek attracts a number of new trekkers. However, the remoteness of the trail can somehow create difficulty, but never mind, the overall trek is quite easy.

Highlights:

  • Visit Nepal’s largest lake with its stunning blue waters
  • Beautiful, remote landscapes and pristine nature
  • Cultural experiences with local communities
  • Ideal for those seeking tranquility and less crowded trails

17. Royal Trek

Altitude: 1730 meters
Trekking Days: 5 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $495 per person

Another most famous and popular trekking route in the Annapurna region is the Royal Trek. This trek earns the word Royal as it is one of the most favorite trekking tracks among the Royal Family of Nepal. The trek offers you with remarkable snow-capped mountain views, blending it with culture. One of the lowest higher trekking routes in Nepal is easy to complete with just a minimal level of fitness. Also, you do not require any prior experience of trekking for this route.

Making your way through lush forests, lakes, and temples, the trek also offers you with glacial lakes. The highest point of the trek you reach is Syaklung, which offers you with the views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. Considered to be the shortest trek around the Pokhara, the trek starts from Begnas Lake. The trek is suitable for all levels of people from all age groups. Also, you can interact with locals and gather more information about the place.

Highlights:

  • Famous for panoramic sunrise views over the Annapurna, Macchapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal.
  • Easy and short trek, ideal for beginners with low altitude
  • Vibrant rhododendron forests and traditional villages
  • Accessible and a quick trek from Pokhara

18. Balthali Village Trek

Altitude: 1,730 meters
Trekking Days: 4 days
Permits: None required

Cost: $280 per person

This is the shortest trekking destination located near the Kathmandu Valley. If you are visiting Kathmandu Valley and looking for a short trekking route with a reasonable price, then this one is the perfect one for you. It takes you to the rural region, making you pass through the off-the-beaten path. Passing through many Gurung, Tamang, and Newar villages, you will finally make it to the top without any extreme physical strains and prior experience.

Also, this isolated village rewards you with a variety of flora and fauna and the friendly hospitality of people. Although this village is not much preferred trekking route, we recommend you to take this one if you want to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the local people. The village also provides you with stunning views of Kathmandu Valley. Try out this trek if you want the short distance trek to take you to the beautiful village near Kathmandu.

Highlights:

  • Beautiful rural landscapes and traditional Gurung and Newari villages
  • Stunning views of the Himalayas and surrounding hills
  • Short and easy trek, perfect for a quick escape from Kathmandu
  • Rich local culture and peaceful environment

19. Mohare Danda Trek

Altitude: 3,300 meters
Trekking Days: 7 days
Permits: TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Cost: $600 per person

The Moahare Danda trek is located near the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek between the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri mountains. The least popular short trekking route in Nepal is a great way to see the Nepalese countryside and get away from city life. You will pass through many villages, remote farmland and a local cheese factory before making your way to Mohare Danda.

Completed within 3 to 4 days, the trekking trails are in the Annapurna Conservation Area. It offers you with a beautiful scenic route that avoids crowds. If you are looking for an easy adventure trek in the Himalayas, this trek can be a perfect choice for you. The trek is generally more accessible compared to other trekking route in Annapurna Region.

Highlights:

  • Sacred lake visited by Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims
  • Stunning high-altitude landscapes and alpine scenery
  • Cultural experiences with local Tamang and Sherpa communities
  • Relatively easy trek with significant cultural and natural rewards

20. Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Altitude: 2,100 meters
Trekking Days: 2 days
Permits: None required

Cost: $220 per person

The shortest 2 days in the whole list trek is one of the nearest trekking destinations near Kathmandu Valley. Taking this trail, you will walk through the peaceful jungle of the Sundarijal to Chisapani to Nagarkot. The trek allows you to walk with the immense range of the Langtang Himal. From the route, you will witness the beautiful Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Gaurishankhar, Dorge Lakpa, and other peaks.

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek
Chisapani Nagarkot Trek.webp

It is one of the easiest trekking trails that cater to every age of individuals. Mainly popular to ba family trek, you can also opt for extending to Helambu Trek if you want more adventure in your journey. The Nagarkot is the best viewpoint, and it is located a short distance from Kathmandu. If you are a beginner and have a relatively short time to explore the natural beauty of Nepal, this trek can be your better option.

Highlights:

  • Short and scenic trek offering views of the Himalayas from Nagarkot
  • Cultural experiences in local villages
  • Beautiful sunrise and sunset views
  • Easy and accessible trek from Kathmandu

Conclusion of Trek in the Himalayas

Overall, Nepal has multiple trekking destinations from which you can choose. The above mentioned 20 best Himalayas treks for beginners in Nepal for are the best lists from which you can choose. For your convenience, we have also added the cost and trekking days you may require for the journey. All the beginner-friendly treks in Nepal are the best options for you. Considered to be the best place for trekking in Nepal, there are multiple options available, from long hiking days to short ones, based on your preferences.

FAQs

Mr. Sappa Lama is a professional tourism expert who runs the entire operations of Nepal Base Camp Trek in the position of an Executive Managing Director. Sappa is a native Nepali, was born and raised in the Mid North West region of Nepal’s Himalayas & began his career in Tourism 20 years ago to this day. His hard earned experience has garnered many accolades for the company & he has trekked the length & breadth of the Himalayas, escorting his clients from around the world to some of Nepal’s most famous Himalayan destinations.

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Sappa Lama

Trekking Guide with experience of 18+ years in tourism
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