5 Places to Trek or Hike in Nepal for Beginners

Nepal is a trekker’s paradise and a photographer’s muse. Many who have begun trekking with a hike in Nepal have fallen in love with this adventure sport. However, before we delve into the magical world, we must know the basic difference between trekking and hiking. While both of them are similar, they have differences that set them apart. 

A hike typically lasts a few hours or a day and is more casual, requiring less specialized equipment or extensive planning. Unlike hiking, trekking requires more planning, preparation, and sometimes the assistance of guides or porters, especially in challenging terrains.

If you're new to trekking or seeking a more manageable adventure, here are five places to trek or hike in Nepal that are perfect for beginners:

1. Langtang National Park Trek

Located directly north of Kathmandu, the Langtang region is the geographically closest Himalayan area to the capital city. It is dominated by the formidable Langtang Himal, a massive ridge of snow and ice that forms a natural barrier exceeding 7000 meters in height and shares its border with Tibet.

The Langtang National Park, the first designated national park across the entire Himalayan Range, is nestled within the embrace of these majestic mountains and the valley beneath. It is a refuge for elusive creatures such as the red panda, the mountain goat known as choral, and the enigmatic snow leopard.

The Langtang trek starts in Syabrubesi, located at the base of the Langtang Valley, where trekkers pay their entrance fee to the Langtang National Park. 

The route follows a slender trail that meanders along the banks of the occasionally tumultuous Langtang Khola, and the landscape gradually reveals itself as trekkers move forward beneath the cooling shade of rhododendrons and pine trees, offering respite from the heat in the lower reaches of the valley. 

As Langtang Village comes into view, the imposing wall of Langtang Himal's highest peak, Langtang Lirung (7234m), captivates the gaze to the north. Progressing six kilometers further up the valley, Kyanjin Gompa emerges, housing a venerable 300-year-old monastery. 

This welcoming village starkly contrasts its austere surroundings and is the highest overnight stop on the Langtang trek. For the brave, there's the option to ascend Tsergo Ri, a non-technical climb exceeding 1000 vertical meters. 

Although challenging, it leads to a grand Buddhist stupa. Reaching the summit at 4985m rewards trekkers with panoramic vistas of Langtang Lirung and the world's 14th highest peak, Shishapangma, standing tall at 8027 meters.

2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Heading to Annapurna Base Camp is a real classic in Nepal, and it's not hard to see why! Kicking off from 1300 meters, this trek takes you through seriously varied terrain – from dense Rhododendron forests to the high-alpine world of colossal rock faces and tumbling glaciers. 

The first big moment? Hiking up to Poon Hill, where you get killer views of the chunky Dhaulagiri (8176m), the whole Annapurna Massif, and the holy grail of mountains, Machhapuchhare, aka Fish Tail Mountain. After soaking in the Poon Hill glory, you head northeast, making your way to the famous Annapurna Sanctuary.

Now, picture this: Annapurna Base Camp is perched on a ledge, surrounded by many peaks over 7000 meters. From your cozy lodge, you might catch avalanches tumbling down those steep slopes. No worries – the base camp is a safe spot, set up by the French pros who conquered the first 8000-meter peak in 1950 and have stayed put ever since. 

What's cool about ABC is that it sits at a relatively chill altitude of 4130 meters, making it more doable than its high-flying counterparts like the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp, both playing in the 5000-meter league. Still, let's not kid ourselves – with nearly 3000 meters of ups and downs, this trek is no walk in the park. Get ready for an epic adventure amidst the mind-blowing beauty of the Himalayas!

3. Pikey Peak Trek

The Pikey Peak Trek stands out as a hidden gem in the Everest region, a less-trodden path that promises an incredible journey through breathtaking landscapes. 

Boasting stunning views of iconic peaks like Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Annapurna, Gaurishankar, Lhotse, and more, Pikey Peak (4067m) offers a panoramic spectacle that even Edmund Hillary, the first conqueror of Everest, hailed as the best vantage point for admiring the majestic Everest.

What makes this trek truly special is its accessibility and the diverse cultural experiences it provides. Unlike the more challenging Everest Base Camp Trek, Pikey Peak Trek offers a condensed Everest region experience within a week. 

As you traverse through Solu Khumbu, you witness the grandeur of the Himalayas and gain a unique perspective on Sherpa culture. The warmth and kindness of the Sherpas, known for their ever-smiling faces, add a special charm to the journey.

Beyond the Sherpa culture, this trek exposes you to the lifestyles of other ethnic groups in Nepal, including Tamang, Chhetri, Gurung, and Rai. Each village along the trail tells a story of traditions, and you can savor various local cuisines that reflect the region's diversity.

Moreover, the trek unfolds as a feast for nature enthusiasts. You'll encounter rare plants and animals, making it a vital area for natural and biological diversity. The trail is adorned with monuments like stupas and vibrant Tibetan prayer flags, adding a spiritual touch to the journey.

One of the perks of the Pikey Peak Trek is its manageable altitude, reaching a maximum height of 4070 meters. This feature minimizes the risk of altitude sickness, offering a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

Additionally, the trek allows you to bypass concerns about flight cancellations by providing the option to start and end the journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dhap and back from Phaplu.

As you venture from Dhap through charming villages like Jhapre and Junbensi and finally reach Phaplu, the trek showcases lush valleys, enchanting forests of pine and rhododendron trees, and the captivating Thupten Choling Monastery. The trek culminates in a visual extravaganza during sunrise when the changing light bathes the snow-capped peaks in a mesmerizing glow.

4. Gosaikunda Lake: A Spiritual Trek

Picture this: a week-long adventure that's not just a trek but a journey into the heart of Langtang National Park—the Gosaikunda Lake trek. It's all about soaking in the magic of Gosaikunda Lake at a cool 4,380 meters. Yeah, we're talking about a serious altitude and serious views of the Manaslu range, Ganesh Himal range, Tibetan peaks, and Langtang Lirung. Plus, you get the holy trio of Gosaikunda, Saraswati Kunda, and Bhairab Kunda thrown into the mix.

Now, why is Gosaikunda a big deal? Well, it's not just some lake; it's a Ramsar site (yeah, that's a big deal for wetlands) and a spiritual spot for Buddhists and Hindus. Legend has it that Lord Shiva made this lake by sticking his trident into the mountain to grab a drink. And in August, during the Janai Purnima festival, this place buzzes with thousands of pilgrims doing their thing.

But the trek isn't just about high-fives with the gods; it's about taking in those mind-blowing views, navigating through cool suspension bridges, and strolling through rhododendron, oak, and pine forests. And let's not forget the cultural vibe—you're not just a spectator; you get to live a bit of the local life.

So, this Gosaikunda Lake trek is not just a trek; it's an adventure that taps into nature's tranquillity and the spiritual vibe of the Himalayas. And if you're feeling the groove, you can stretch it beyond a week to soak it all in. Whether it's the shimmering lakes, towering peaks, or the daily buzz of the locals, this trek is a real deal that connects you to the heart of it all in a way that sticks with you.

5. Paanch Pokhari Trek

Nestled in the Sindhupalchowk District of Nepal, Panch Pokhari is a cluster of five sacred lakes, the 9th highest altitude wetland globally. This hidden gem, a secret of nature, lures Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, drawing them into its pristine and unexplored embrace. 

Surrounded by Himalayan mountain panorama, Panch Pokhari offers inexplicable sceneries and a truly magical natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in the remote mountainous terrain of Nepal.

As a prominent feature of Langtang National Park, spanning the Nuwakot, Rasuwa, and Sindhupalchowk districts in the central Himalayan region, Panch Pokhari holds a special place in the heart of nature lovers. 

In recognition of its significance, the Nepalese Postal Series Department issued a stamp featuring Panch Pokhari in 2011. Sitting about 4100m above sea level, this location is a visual delight and a revered Hindu pilgrimage site.

Two trekking trails lead to Panch Pokhari: one starting from Sano Okhareni via Chautara and the other from Bhotang via Melamchi. The latter, known for its ease and popularity, is the preferred route. The adventure begins in Bhotang, accessible by a scenic drive from Kathmandu. En route, you'll encounter charming settlements of diverse cultural groups, stunning natural landscapes, and picturesque vistas.

Continuing the trek from Bhotang to Deurali and Nasempati, you'll traverse beautiful valleys, cross-country rivers, and water streams. The journey unfolds with captivating terraced farmlands and diverse flora and fauna, leading to Laure Bhanjyang, the last stop before reaching Panch Pokhari.

Panch Pokhari is a mesmerizing destination where you'll immerse yourself in the incredible beauty of the wetland. Upon exploration, the trek retraces its steps, returning to Tangu and then Bhotang. 

From Bhotang, a return drive to Kathmandu via Melamchi completes the adventure, leaving you with memories of a truly enchanting journey through the heart of Nepal's mountainous wonders.