Family-Friendly Trek and Hiking Trails in Nepal

Going out on an adventure, exploring personal limits, and experiencing a different worldview is some of the best things about traveling. This experience, when shared with family is nothing less than a prodigious journey. 

While we often dream of someday spending time on the pristine landscape of Nepal, we are taken aback by whether the Himalayan adventure is family-friendly or not. Traveling to Nepal can be a concern due to problems such as acute mountain sickness (AMS) and fatigue. However, a trek conducted with proper planning by Places Nepal can turn any trek into a family-friendly trek in Nepal. 

Nepal offers an extraordinary combination of adventure and natural beauty, making it a prime destination for hike and family-friendly treks with kids. The Himalayan country presents adventurous opportunities for family trekking amid its challenging terrains, such as Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking, Langtang Valley Trek, Upper Mustang, Everest Base Camp (5,364m), and the Great Himalayan Trail which is a comprehensive route traversing most of the country.

However, for families trekking with young children, it is advisable to remain below an altitude of 4,000m - 5000m, with treks ranging from 3 to 10 days being suitable for easy treks in Nepal with kids.

If you are planning a family trekking expedition in Nepal, it is advisable to target the middle hill region, or treks with easier terrain. Make sure the itinerary for a family trek in Nepal has a gradual ascend and descend, and do not travel higher than 5500m. This altitude range would be ideal for a kid-friendly hike and trekking experience. Some beginner-friendly treks in Nepal you can go with your children are: 

Everest Base Camp Trek

While the full Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek may be too strenuous for young children, there is a shorter alternative route through the Sagarmatha National Park around Mount Everest that provides a more relaxed and easier trekking experience. 

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most iconic treks, making it an excellent option for an adventurous family trip. Although reaching elevations around 4,000 meters, this route offers the luxury of staying in comfortable lodges with soft beds to ensure proper rest.

The family-friendly Everest Base Camp trek takes between 14 -15 days, depending on the chosen path, and rewards trekkers with some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It's an excellent option for families with children, as the kids can proudly claim they walked around and witnessed the world's highest peak, Mount Everest. You can also opt for a one-day Helicopter ride around the Everest Region with Kalapathar landing.

Additionally, trekkers can make stops at Sherpa villages along the trail, allowing both parents and children to gain a deeper appreciation for the unique culture and way of life of these remarkable mountain people. This immersive experience enriches the overall journey, creating lasting memories for the entire family.

Best time to trek

The autumn (September-November) and spring (February-May) seasons are considered the best times for families to embark on this journey. During these periods, the stable weather conditions and pleasant temperatures in the Everest region create an ideal trekking experience.

However, it is also possible to undertake the trek during the off-season (monsoon and winter) if proper preparations are made beforehand. Trekkers, especially families, should be mindful of their ability to adapt to high altitudes and ensure they have adequate insurance coverage for the trek.

While the Everest Base Camp Trek presents challenges, it remains a popular choice for families seeking an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas, provided they are well-prepared and take the necessary precautions.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is likely the second most popular trekking route in Nepal after the Everest Base Camp (4,130 m). Many people traveling with families for a trek in Nepal choose the ABC trek because it is less demanding with easier terrain throughout the trek.

Elevation through the trek can be managed between 500m to 700m, making sure that everyone is enjoying the trek without thinking much about health.

Best time to trek

Spring and autumn are considered the best seasons to undertake this trek in the Annapurna region due to the favorable weather conditions. However, the Annapurna region is known for its unpredictable climate, and there is a risk of altitude-related difficulties, making proper preparation crucial before embarking on the trek. 

Accommodation in the region is renowned for its tourist-friendly lodges and teahouses, providing a comfortable experience for families. Food costs tend to vary along the trail, becoming more expensive at higher altitudes.

This trek offers breathtaking views of towering peaks such as Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and other majestic mountains of the Annapurna range. Additionally, trekkers can immerse in the traditional Gurung villages, interact with local communities, and experience their rich cultures. 

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek undoubtedly provides an ideal family trekking experience, allowing remarkable memories to be created amidst the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region.

The Poon Hill trek

The Poon Hill Trek spans four days around the Annapurna Range and serves as an excellent introduction to the exhilarating world of trekking in Nepal, especially for young adventurers. With a maximum altitude of around 3,210 meters above sea level, this trek minimizes the risk of altitude sickness for children.

While the route features some challenging steeper sections that will test and entertain the little ones, the trek also offers opportunities to explore beautiful rhododendron forests and quaint local villages, allowing kids to discover and immerse themselves in the surroundings.

Accommodation

The lodges along the trail are basic yet comfortable, catering to a wide range of meal options suitable for most children's palates. This trek strikes a balance between providing an authentic trekking experience and ensuring a family-friendly environment for young explorers to embark on their first thrilling Nepali trekking adventure in the Annapurna Region.

The Royal Trek

Widely known as the Royal Trek, this route gained its name after being traversed by Prince Charles, the British Prince of Wales and heir to the throne, in the 1980s. With a maximum elevation of just 1,700 meters, this four-day trek eliminates the risk of altitude sickness for both adults and children.

Beginning at the northern end of the Pokhara Valley, the trail winds through several local villages, providing an opportunity for kids to immerse themselves in the unique Gurung village culture and way of life. 

Along the way, trekkers are treated to stunning distant views of the snow-capped Mount Annapurna. The trek culminates at the tranquil site of Begnas Lake, renowned for its well-developed lakeside villages that cater to the many tourists who complete the trail there. This family-friendly trek not only offers scenic beauty but also a chance for cultural exploration, making it an ideal introduction to trekking in Nepal for children and adults alike.

Mustang Trek

The Mustang Region of Nepal is one of the must-visit places in the world. The beauty of the region and how people have survived for thousands of years is simply inspiring. And the best part is this region can be explored with kids and families. One can choose to trek, ride, or drive in the Mustang region.

The Mustang trek curated by Places Nepal will lead you to the most beautiful places like Kaligandaki River Gorge, the deepest canyon on earth (5,500m), and Lo Manthang (3,800m), the timeless capital. You can wander with your families among a tapestry of Buddhist temples, Chortens, and caves (3,700m), where peace envelops you like a sacred balm. 

While there is an increased risk of altitude sickness in this region, families have the option to hire horses for younger trekkers if the trek becomes too strenuous for them. A strong journey only hardens the bond between the families. 

Langtang Trek

Primarily centered around the Langtang area, this trek is ideal for stunning mountain vistas, as you’ll be surrounded by peaks of altitude 6,000-7,000 meters. The views are equally impressive, especially when the Langtang Valley opens up, revealing its majestic beauty. 

Langtang trek is one of the best trek suitable for children and families in Nepal. One of the highlights for children on this trek is the opportunity to spot yaks as they traverse through the valley, adding to the excitement and sense of adventure.

For anyone up for an adventure, this trek will take you up to about 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), and if you're feeling even more adventurous, you absolutely can't miss catching the sunrise from Tserko Ri, which stands tall at a whopping 5,000 meters (16,404 feet).

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal's top short hikes. The Mardi Himal, which opened in 2012, is a hidden treasure in the Annapurna area with an easy to moderate-level walk. All travel enthusiasts can do it.

This trail, previously uncharted by explorers, offers an unforgettable journey to an altitude of 4,500 meters above sea level.

The Short Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek offers a sacred journey to the base camp of Mardi Himal at 4,500 meters. This trail presents multiple options for trekkers, including extensions to Annapurna Base Camp, the Ghorepani-Poonhill trek, and the Ghorepani-Ghandruk trek via Landruk.

As you embark on this adventure, you'll traverse lush meadows and enchanting forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna. The trail rewards you with breathtaking vistas of Mt. Annapurna (8,091m/26,546ft), Machhapuchre (6,997m/22,957ft), Hiuchuli, Gangapurna, Mardi Himal (5,587m/18,330ft), and more.

The Short Mardi Himal Trek is an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the Annapurna region within a limited timeframe and with families. It's also perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of reaching an altitude of 4,500 meters at the Mardi Himal Base Camp, where you can relish awe-inspiring 360° panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Shivapuri National Park Trek

For those seeking a taste of Nepal's natural wonders without the commitment of multi-day treks, the country offers an array of short hikes suited for families and casual adventurers. The Kathmandu Valley itself provides easy access to trails like the Shivapuri National Park hike, winding through forests and Buddhist monasteries. 

The Shivapuri National Park is located on the northern side of the Kathmandu Valley. It offers a great opportunity to experience local hiking within the valley itself. This trek is perfect for children and provides an opportunity to learn about the Buddhist culture in Nepal, which is predominantly a Hindu country. 

The route takes you through ancient forests and along fast-flowing rivers, leading to Buddhist monasteries that are often visited by playful groups of monkeys. It's a delightful experience for children to witness the amusing antics of these mischievous primates around the temple grounds.

The Shivapuri National Park Trek can range from three to thirteen days, depending on how long you want to trek. With Kathmandu nearby, trekkers have the flexibility to return to the capital at any point along the trail. Although the trail features a few steep sections that may challenge younger trekkers, the altitude remains below 2,400 meters, so there are no concerns about altitude sickness.

This trek not only introduces children to the wonders of Nepal's natural landscapes but also provides a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the country's rich Buddhist heritage. It's a well-rounded and family-friendly trekking experience.

In conclusion, Nepal offers a plethora of family-friendly trekking options amidst its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. From the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek to the serene paths of Shivapuri National Park, there's an adventure suited for every family. With careful planning, moderate altitudes, and opportunities to immerse in local culture, embarking on a trek in Nepal becomes not just a journey, but a cherished memory for families to treasure for years to come.