Nepal is a geographically diverse country blessed with incredible natural heritage. The vast landscapes of the region provide you with outstanding trekking opportunities. You will pass through the foothills of the highest mountains in the world. The rich culture, heritage, and tradition of the local community will enchant you.
Trekking in Nepal ranges from a couple of days to a month in the high mountain valleys and passes. Travelers generally seek out for short treks in Nepal as they want most of the time in the mountains. There are many off the beaten treks available in the region too.
Moreover, the trekking adventure passes through diverse landscapes that range from lush lowland hills to barren desert-like landscapes. The rare sighting of Snow Leopard, Musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, and others is the highlight of trekking in Nepal. If you wish to trek in Nepal and have a limited schedule on your hand, you can always select a brief trek itinerary.
Furthermore, you can take a couple of days’ hike around Kathmandu Valley as well. The popular treks like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and others are well-trodden and sign-posted. There are lodges and teahouses alongside the trail where trekkers can stay, have a meal, and socialize with other locals. Off the beaten treks around the western part of Nepal may require some camping.
If you are seeking a trekking adventure that ranges a maximum of seven days, then you arrived at the right place. Read further to know more about the Top 10 best short treks in Nepal in detail.
Here, we list our Top 10 Best Treks In Nepal:
Top 10 Short Treks in Nepal
1. Mardi Himal Trek – 5 Days
The Mardi Himal trek is one of the beautiful off the beaten short treks in Nepal. This spectacular high altitude trek takes you along the rugged terrains in the foothills of the Himalayas. Mardi Himal Trek provides you with the enticing views of the snow-capped peaks in the Annapurna Region.
You have an opportunity to observe the magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, and others. The scenic natural, as well as the cultural beauty of the region, will spellbind you. You will walk past the traditional Gurung villages where you can observe the ancient Buddhist culture.
Moreover, the trails pass through the village settlements of Kande, Siding, Pothana, Deurali, and others. This spectacular high altitude trek takes you above the height of 4,500 meters. You will arrive at the various camps, including Low Camp, Forest Camp, High Camp, to arrive at the stunning Mardi Himal Base Camp. The five days Mardi Himal Trip takes you at the remote landscapes of the diverse Annapurna region at a reasonable cost.
Mardi Himal Trek – 5 days Itinerary
Day 01: Drive to Kande and trek to Deurali/ Pothana.
Day 02: Trek to the Low Camp.
Day 03: Trek to the High Camp.
Day 04: Hike to the Mardi Base Camp and trek down to Siding.
Day 05: Drive back to Pokhara.
Best Time for Mardi Himal Trek – 5 days
The best time for the trek in Mardi Himal is the Autumn and the Spring season. The remote trails of the Mardi Himal are ideal for trekking in the months of September, October, and November in the Autumn season.
Besides that, trekking in the Spring months of March, April, and May is also favorable. The winter season treks can get challenging due to the cold weather and frigid conditions. However, you can complete the trek in the offseason as well with enough packing and preparation.
2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 6 Days
The six days Annapurna Base Camp trek is a specially designed trek for those who want a quick adventure in the foothills of the majestic Annapurna massif. Trekkers must be physically trained for this strenuous trek in a tight schedule. Annapurna Base Camp trek offers spectacular views of the Annapurna mountain range.
Moreover, this shorter itinerary of the Annapurna Base Camp trek starts and ends at the lake city of Pokhara. The short duration of the trek makes it quite popular among trekkers. You can explore all the natural and cultural diversity of the Annapurna Sanctuary in just 6 days.
Furthermore, the trails pass through the cultural settlements of the Gurung and Tamang community. The lush green Rhododendron and Oak forests of the region will enchant you. The awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Mardi Himal, and others are the highlight of the trek.
Trekkers require Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card for this trek. The Annapurna Base Camp trek of 6 days is one of the best short treks in Nepal.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 6 days Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Jhinu Danda
Day 02: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Bamboo
Day 03: Trek from Bamboo to Deurali
Day 04: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Day 05: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Sinuwa Danda
Day 06: Trek from Sinuwa Danda to New bridge and Drive to Pokhara
Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 6 days Itinerary
This spectacular trek is available all round the year. However, the best seasons to trek the magnificent Annapurna Base Camp are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). The Autumn months have a festive atmosphere in the region with ideal trekking weather in the daytime.
Moreover, the spring months make the environment scenic and has a lovely atmosphere all around. The offseason treks in the winter season are challenging but still doable.
3. Everest View Trek – 5 Days
The Everest view trek is among the popular short treks in Nepal. The trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. We then cross the pristine Dudh Kosi River while observing the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains.
Moreover, the trails also pass through the lush alpine forests, yak pasture, ancient monasteries, mani walls, and others. The Everest view trek provides exceptional views of the mountains, including Mt. Everest, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Khumbila, Khanga, Nuptse, and others.
Furthermore, the short Everest view trek is ideal for trekkers who don’t want to trek the harsh terrains or have a short time on their hands. You will also pass through the unique settlements of the Sherpa community. The 5 Days Everest View trek begins in Lukla. The trail then passes through the settlements of Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, Khundea. We then trek back to Monjo and Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu.
Everest View Trek – 5 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Flight to Lukla & Trek to Phakding (2,652m)
Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Day 3: Trek and Explore Khumjung Sherpa village and Everest View Hotel
Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m)
Day 5: Fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla Airport
Best Time for Everest View Trek
The best time for the Everest view trek is Autumn, Spring, and Winter season. Spring months of March, April, and May provide incredible snow-capped mountain views and scenic environments.
Moreover, the Autumn season brings a festive atmosphere along the trails. The Winter season makes the entire Everest region look like a winter wonderland. Since this is a short trek, it is ideal even in off seasons with proper packing and preparation.
4. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 5 Days
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek begins with a scenic drive to Nayapul from Pokhara. We pass through the picturesque settlements of Ghorepani, Ulleri, and Ghandruk. The trails also pass through the alpine forests of the region and the traditional settlements of the Gurung and Magar community.
We arrive at the Poon hill viewpoint (3210m). The breathtaking views overlooking the snow-capped mountains are the highlight of the trek. We can also spot the rare and endangered wildlife of the region. The trek provides us with the awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Annapurna (I – IV), Mt. Dhaulagiri ranges, Annapurna south, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna, Tukuche Peak, Barasikhar, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and Manaslu ranges.
Moreover, the golden rays of the sun falling over the silver mountains like Annapurna (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) will spellbind you. You can experience the natural beauty of the region in all its glory. The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is among the incredible shorts trek in Nepal and is ideal for those who want a quick trekking adventure.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 5 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1540m)
Day 2: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2860m)
Day 3: Trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210m) and Stay at Tadapani (2660m)
Day 4: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1940m)
Day 5: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
Best Season for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Autumn and Spring is the ideal time for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Autumn season (September – November) provides moderate temperatures in the daytime and stable weather conditions.
Furthermore, the Spring months (March-May) bring a scenic environment with flowers like Rhododendron blooming all over the hills. These seasons are incredibly beautiful, and there is less rainfall in the region. If you love some adventure, you can also take this trek in the off-seasons.
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5. Langtang Valley Trekking – 7 days
The seven days Langtang valley trekking is one of the diverse short treks in Nepal. The trek takes you along the foothills of the majestic snow-capped mountains, serene waterfalls, and Rhododendron and Bamboo forests. Langtang Valley Trek is a popular alternative trek to the Everest and Annapurna regions treks. This short trek lies close to the capital city of Kathmandu.
Moreover, the Langtang Valley Trek is also less crowded with a fewer number of teahouses and trekkers. You will get incredible hospitality along the trail. Nepal’s Langtang region is the scenic and natural region of the country. The rich cultural heritage of the area remains unparalleled. Langtang Trek of 7 days is also ideal for all skill levels. It is a moderately challenging trek but a good training regime is essential.
Furthermore, tea houses and lodges provide meals and accommodation along the trail. The earthquake of April 2015 severely damaged the Langtang valley. This trek has since been duly renovated and is now functional for trekking. You will get to explore the complete cultural and natural aspects of the Langtang valley, including the Kyanjin Gompa.
Langtang Valley Trekking – 7 days Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1550m)
Day 2: Trek to Lama Hotel (2380m)
Day 3: Trek to Langtang village (3200m)
Day 4: Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3870m) and Explore Kyanjin Ri (4500m)
Day 5: Trek back to Lama Hotel
Day 6: Trek back to Syabrubesi
Day 7: Drive to Kathmandu
Best Time for Langtang Valley Trekking – 7 days
March to June in the Spring season and September to December in the Autumn is the ideal time for the Langtang valley trekking. The Langtang region is close to the capital city of Kathmandu.
Furthermore, the Autumn season provides ideal weather conditions in the region. The Spring season is a lovely time for the trek in the Langtang region, with flowers blooming all over the trails.
6. Kathmandu Valley Trek – 3 Days
The Kathmandu Valley Trek 3 days is a short trek in the ancient Kathmandu valley. This incredible trek is ideal for trekkers with a short time in their schedule and do not want to trek in the harsh terrains.
Moreover, the trails of this scenic trek pass through the settlements of Chisapani and Nagarkot. You will also observe the awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped Himalayas, which is the highlight of the trek. The trails pass through the natural landscapes of the pristine Shivapuri National Park.
Furthermore, the trails also let you explore the Tamang community and their unique village lifestyle. These short treks in Nepal are ideal for all skill levels, including kids and seniors. The incredible villages, settlements, and dense forests will spellbind you.
Kathmandu Valley Trek – 3 Days Itinerary
Day 01: Drive to SundariJal and trek to Chisa Pani via Shivapuri National Park
Day 02: Early sunrise at Chisapani, trek to Nagarkot
Day 03: Trek down to the old Hindu temple of Changunarayan, and drive back to Kathmandu.
Best Time for Kathmandu Valley Trek
Kathmandu Valley Trek is ideal for all seasons, as it is just a three-day trek. You can trek in the Autumn months of September, October, and November when the temperature is moderate with stable weather conditions.
The Spring months of March, April, and May is a great time to trek around Kathmandu valley. Winters are also ideal for trekking in the warm sun. However, you need to pack appropriately for the trek.
7. Gosaikunda Trek – 5 Days
The Gosaikunda trek of 5 days is another great addition to the list of outstanding short treks in Nepal. Gosaikunda 4,380 m (14,370 ft) is a freshwater, frozen lake on the premises of the beautiful Langtang National park. You can also observe the various lakes of the region, including the Gosaikunda lake, Bhairabkunda, Saraswatichandra, and Surajkund.
Moreover, there are around 108 lakes in this region sprawling over the area of 1,030 ha (4.0 sq mi). UNESCO listed Gosaikunda as a Ramsar Site in 2007, which is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. Gosaikunda Lake is of great religious and cultural significance for Hindu devotees.
Furthermore, the five days Gosaikunda Trek also allows you to observe the famous Dorje Lakpa range (6,988 meters). Besides that, you can also find the majestic mountain views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Lori Binayak Manaslu ranges. You will trek along the Dhunche-Helambu region, which is not that taxing and strenuous. The trek requires a moderate level of fitness.
Gosaikunda Trek – 5 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche (2100m)
Day 2: Trek to Chandan Bari (3330m)
Day 3: Trek to Gosaikunda (4380m)
Day 4: Trek down to Dhunche (2100m)
Day 5: Drive to Kathmandu
Best Time for Gosaikunda Trek – 5 Days Itinerary
Gosaikunda remains frozen in the winters, and the holy lake melts and flows into the Trishuli River in the summers. August is the month when hundreds of pilgrims visit the lake as there is a big mela in the premises of the lake. Besides, the Autumn season and the Spring are also perfect for the Gosaikunda Trek.
Furthermore, the temperatures remain moderate, with ideal weather conditions all around the trail. In the spring season, you will get an outstanding scenic environment with incredible surroundings all over. Winters are quite cold and frigid conditions in the region, hence avoidable.
8. Dhampus Sarangkot Trekking – 6 Days
Dhampus Sarangkot trekking is a short and comfortable trekking adventure around Pokhara. The incredible trek passes through the majestic Himalayan panoramas and quaint village settlements of the region. Sarangkot and Dhampus are popular viewpoints for the incredible Himalayan sunrise.
The trails of these short treks in Nepal pass through lush vegetation, serene lakes, Himalayan rivers, and unique cultural settlements. Dhampus is a lovely Gurung village along with Ghandruk. You can find many retired Gurkha armies in the region and people busy in agricultural activities.
Moreover, you can do this trek in a limited time and without any previous trekking experience. The trek is ideal for all skill levels, including veterans and amateurs. The Dhampus Sarangkot Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara via flight or bus drive from Kathmandu. And then trek from the Seti river to Phedi and arrive at Dhampus.
Furthermore, the view of the snow-capped mountains, including Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and others, is awe-inspiring. We can also go on a sightseeing tour of the famous tourist hotspots of Pokhara. These famous places include Phewa, Begnas, Bindabasini, and Tal Barahi temple, Buddhist monastery, Mahendra cave, Davis falls, and others.
Dhampus Sarangkot Trekking – 6 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Day 2: Drive to Milan Chowk. Trek to Astam
Day 3: Trek from Astam to Australian Camp
Day 4: Trek from Australian Camp to Sarangkot
Day 5: Drive from Sarangkot to Pokhara
Day 6: Drive to Kathmandu
Best Time for Dhampus Sarangkot Trek
Dhampus Sarangkot trek is another short and quick trek around the lake city of Pokhara. The best time for the Dhampus Sarangkot Trek is the Autumn and Spring season. Autumn season (September – November) is ideal for trekking the vast landscapes of the region as there is minimal rainfall.
Moreover, the Spring months (March-May) is the second-best time for the trek. The environment around the region remains incredibly beautiful, and the temperatures are also warm. Winters are relatively colder, and there are chances of snowfall, but if you prepare well, you will have an excellent time trekking in winters as well.
9. Kalinchowk Trek – 4 days
Kalinchowk Trek is among the beautiful short treks in Nepal. This trek is in close distance from Kathmandu. You will get to observe the snow-capped mountains, including the Himalayas near the Nepal – China border and the holy Kalinchowk Bhagwati shrine. Trekkers will hike the famous pilgrimage along with thousands of Hindu devotees.
Furthermore, the breathtaking mountain range from Langtang to Numbur mountain range is spellbinding. The rich biodiversity of the region also includes rare flora and fauna of the area. You will stay at the local teahouses and the lodges. We walk through the alpine forests of the region of Rhododendron and Hemlock trees. You might also spot the rare and endangered species like the clouded leopard!
Kalinchowk Trek – 4 days Itinerary
Day 01: Trek from Kathmandu to Mude and trek to Charikot
Day 02: Trek from Charikot to Kuri
Day 03: Trek from Kuri to Kalinchowk and trek to Kuri
Day 04: Trek from Kuri to Charikot and trek to Kathmandu
Best Time for Kalinchowk Trek
The best time for the Kalinchowk trek is Autumn, Spring, and the Winter season. The short trek in the Autumn season (September – November) is beautiful due to the festive atmosphere in and around the city of Kathmandu.
Moreover, the Spring months (March-May) bring lush vegetation and active wildlife along the trails. Winters is another favorable time for the Kalinchowk Trek. The snowfall in Kalinchowk makes the region look enchanting.
10. Pikey Peak Trek – 5 Days
The 5 Days Pikey Peak Trek is a quick trek in Eastern Nepal. These spectacular short treks in Nepal provide you with the magnificent views of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Annapurna, Makalu, and Manalsu from the Pikey Peak summit.
Furthermore, the Pikey Peak starts from Kathmandu and is available at a budget cost. The Pikey Peak Trek is beautiful off the beaten trek in the foothills of Everest massif. This 5 days Pikey Peak Trek is a great practice trek before you take on the more challenging Everest Base Camp Trek.
Pikey Peak Trek – 5 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap (2900m)
Day 2: Trek from Dhap to Jhapre (2930m)
Day 3: Trek from Jhapre to Pike Peak Base Camp (3600m)
Day 4: Trek from Pike Peak Base Camp to Dhap (2932m)
Day 5: Drive from Dhap to Kathmandu
Best Time for Pikey Peak Trek
The Pikey Peak trek is perfect for trekking in the Spring, and Autumn season. Winter trek to the Pikey Peak is also a great option as you will get to observe the majestic views of snow-clad Mt. Everest along with the entire Himalayas.
Furthermore, the Autumn season (September, October, November) has excellent weather and perfect daytime temperatures. The Spring months (March, April, May) is another favorable time to trek in the region. You will get warm temperatures and a scenic environment in Spring.
The Final Say
Nepal is a trekker’s paradise with many trekking destinations. Trekking in the foothills of the Himalayas ranges from 2-3 days to a month. There are many best short treks in Nepal that provide a quick adventure. If you have a short schedule on your hand, these short treks will provide you with an incredible experience.
Moreover, trekkers will pass through the lush forests, mountains passes, and barren landscapes in a span of a few days. The prosperous cultural settlements and the heritage, tradition, and lifestyle of the region will spellbind you. The Top 10 best short treks in Nepal listed above are all within the span of seven days. You can choose the one that meets your schedule and requirement.
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