The idea of heading away on a month-long expedition into the mountains is tempting. But as much as we hope for it to happen, often it is not feasible. The daily chores of life is a barricade to your dreams.
However, Nepal offers a wide range of trekking options. From strenuous to effortless, this small country has something for everyone. For the time-bound travelers, there are many short treks that are customizable.
The trails might be short but they are glorious where you can collect millions of memories. These short treks will be an ideal introduction into Nepal trekking for beginners. Plus, they fulfill your dream of trekking on the spectacular hillocks through lush forests and vegetation.
Without further ado, here are the 6 popular short treks of Nepal.
1. Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek
Every year, more than 40,000 trekkers walk the Everest Base Camp trail, be it beginner trekkers or experienced trekkers.
It is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. It takes you to the base of the highest mountain in the world. You can reach to Base Camp of Everest in many ways such as via Jiri, classical routes, via helicopter and so on.
People who are short on time and want to travel in conform, they opt for Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek.
The EBC Trek places a high emphasis on the comfort aspect of the trek. It takes you to the best hotels and lodges and also offers the best cuisines in the region.
The luxury trek is accompanied by some of the best guides and porters to assist you. Along with that, you are also provided with sleeping bags, down jackets and medical items. In case of an emergency, a helicopter will transport you to a safer place.
The Everest Base Camp Luxury Trekking starts with an exciting flight to Lukla airport. Theron, you trek to the Everest Base Camp via Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep. Upon reaching the Base Camp, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu via helicopter. Hence, this trek is done in 8 days.
Mt. Everest is without a doubt the biggest highlight of the EBC Trek. Apart from this, you can also witness 4 of the 6 highest peaks in the world. There are various viewpoints along the trail. The 360-degree panoramic view of Everest from the summit of Kala Patthar is breathtaking. From here, you will take a pleasant flight back to Kathmandu via Lukla airport.
The Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek lets you experience both trek and helicopter tours of the Everest Base Camp. The Yeti Mountain View which is the finest hotel in the region is another highlight of this trek. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to December), are the two most popular times to trek. The weather during these times are pleasant and the views are majestic.
2. Ghorepani Trek
Ghorepani is a Gurung village in Myadhi District in the Dhaulagiri zone. The place used to be a stopping point for the ancient trader to fetch water (pani) for their horse (ghore). Hence the name Ghorepani. The Ghorepani Trek is one of the most preferred treks in Nepal which lures thousands of trekkers each year.
The Ghorepani Trek starts from the beautiful city of Pokhara. The 51 km long trail takes you through Gurung and Magar villages along with lush rhododendron forests. You can complete this trek in 3 days starting from Pokhara. But this trek is customizable to make it a week’s trek as well.
The trek is popular for the stunning vistas of the Himalayas. Poon Hill provides the best viewpoint in the entire Annapurna region. You can witness more than 20 peaks from up there. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, and Himchuli being some of it. The sunrise and sunset view from Poon Hill is simply surreal.
Well marked with comfortable guest houses, the trail offers some of the best accommodation. Even at such a far and remote place, you can always enjoy a hot shower and a delicious meal. You also have access to a decent internet connection to talk to your families.
Ghorepani is also one of the most popular Gurung villages. You can experience their unique culture, enjoy delicious cuisines and listen to their amazing tales.
The easy nature of the trek makes it perfect for everyone. There is no real risk of altitude sickness. Casualties are unlikely but in case of emergencies, you can head to Pokhara with ease.
Due to its lower elevation, winter trek is also possible. November is the most ideal time to walk on this trail because of the pleasantness in weather and surrounding. During this time you can avoid the summer, monsoon, and the cold winter. The mountain views are clear and majestic.
The trek starts and ends in the glamorous city of Pokhara. The added option to explore this beautiful city makes this trek even more appealing.
3. Kalinchowk Temple Trek
The Kalinchowk Temple Trek is an increasingly popular trekking destination. Kalinchowk is located in the eastern region of Nepal in the Dolakha district. It is named after the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple.
At 3,780 m, the holy Hindu Temple is devoted to the goddess Kali. The Kalinchowk Temple Trek starts with a four-hour drive from Kathmandu to Charikot. The trail takes you through rhododendron forest as you ascend to the top of the hill.
The Bhagawati temple at the top of the hill is the central attraction. Besides that, panoramic Himalayan views from the temple are astounding. You will see the Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal and Gauri Shankar from there.
Apart from the pilgrimage, the trek takes you through Newar, Tamang, and Brahmin communities. So, this trek is a unique opportunity to experience such a diverse culture in close vicinity. The route from Deurali to Kuri provides wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers with a diverse form of wildlife.
While Kalinchowk is more famous among domestic tourists, this short trek is for everyone. This trek provides a perfect mixture of cultural and geographical marvel. It offers all the fundamentals of making your trek memorable.
The terrain can be quite challenging. Most of the trail follows a high ridgeline which can be thrilling and electrifying. Especially when you are trekking in winter, you need to have a proper pair of boots with a good grip with traction. For extra safety, you can use crampons while walking in the snowy trails.
This is a short trek of 4-5 days where you can either stay in the local teahouses. Or, you can also spend your nights inside a camping tent.
4. Ghandruk Trek
Ghandruk is a Gurung village located to the northwest of Pokhara. At an altitude of 2,010 m, the famous Gurung village is set beautifully in the backdrop of the Himalayas.
The trek starts with a one hour drive to Phedi from Pokhara. The trail takes you through rhododendron forests, stone-paved path, and traditional villages. The Ghandruk trek is a family-friendly trek and can be done by people of all age-group. The whole trip can be completed in 3-5 days.
The Ghandruk Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal. A perfect blend of scenic and trekking heaven, it takes you to some of the most beautiful villages while offering great Himalayan views. You can enjoy alluring views of the deadly Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare along the trail. The view of Machapuchare from Ghandruk is heavenly.
Moreover, the main attraction of this trek is the Ghandruk village. The rich culture and tradition of the place will mesmerize you. The small village has over 20 lodges and inn. Almost all the house you see looks identical with bright colored lime white-top, ochre-red bottoms, and slate roofs.
There is also a museum in the middle of the village. The museum provides a rare glimpse into the old lifestyle of the place. It exhibits traditional Gurung clothing, jewelry, weapons, colors, tools.
Another reason contributing to the popularity of the Ghandruk Trek is its weather. Ghandruk boasts a pleasant climate without extreme heat or cold all year round. Monsoon (July to early September) is the only exception, other than that you can trek all year round. The trek concludes at Pokhara, giving you the option to explore the beautiful lakeside city.
5. Balthali Village Trek
Balthali is an old village located in Kavrepalanchok district in the Bagmati zone. Just 40 km from Kathmandu, you can complete this trek in 3-4 days. The Balthali Village Trek is rated among the short duration trek without altitude.
The trek starts with a short drive to Dhulikhel from Kathmandu. Thereon, the route goes over the hill and down to the river valleys. You walk through open fields and suspension bridge as you head to Balthali.
The main attraction of the trek is the Balthali village. Situated at the convergence of Roshi and Ladku rivers, this beautiful village seems to have been left untouched by modernity. The isolated village offers a spectacular Himalayan view in the north. Surrounded by green forest, it hosts a wide array of wildlife. Particularly famous for bird watching, the region is also famous for its greenery.
Panauti is another major attraction of this short trek. Built-in the signature Newari style, it is the oldest town of Nepal. This historic town consists of many temples that date back to the 15th century or earlier. The Indreshwar temple is one of the largest and tallest pagoda style temples in Nepal.
Namo Buddha at 1,750 m is the highest point in the trek. An important Buddhist monastery, it is very quiet and peaceful. As you walk through the narrow path amidst thousands of colored prayer flags you will feel ecstatic.
One of the most important factors contributing to the popularity of this trek is its weather. The winter is warm and summer is cool, making this trek trekkable all year round.
6. Dhampus Sarangkot Trek
Dhampus is a beautiful Gurung village. Whereas, Sarangkot lies on the outskirt of Pokhara and can be seen from the lakeside. The Dhampus Sarangkot Trek is a short trek to experience a different culture and Himalayan scenery. You can customize this trek to fit within 3-5 days.
The trek starts with a one hour drive to Phedi from Pokhara. Thereon, the trek follows the high ridge point between different beautiful villages. The trail takes you to two of the most famous mountain viewpoint: Dhampus and Sarangkot.
Dhampus at 1,650 m is the gateway of the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is the entry point of some of the most famous trekking trail: ABC Trek, Ghorepani Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, etc. The route to Dhampus will take you through beautiful countryside, lush forest and terrace fields.
You’ll have a majestic view of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna range along with other towering mountain peaks. Apart from this, Dhampus is a living museum to experience Nepalese lifestyle and culture. The village maintains its pristine character and stunning old architecture albeit the flow of tourists in the area.
Sarangkot at 1,600 m, is one of the most popular hill stations in Pokhara. It is the best viewpoint to overlook the beautiful Pokhara city. So, this is the point where you can play with your photography skills to capture the unique views of mountains and Pokhara valley.
The highlight of the place is its picturesque mountain views. You’ll gaze upon a panoramic view of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri and more. Apart from that, the spectacular sunrise and sunset views are equally enticing.
The Dhampus Sarangkot Trek provides a perfect blend of cultural diversity and mountain views. And the best thing is that anyone can trail the trek, regardless of fitness and age.
Final Word
Trekking is good for the mind and body. But not every trekker can go on high altitude and longer treks. Due to this reason, there are many short treks which fit all kind of trekkers. You can plan these short treks as per your preference and can customize them to fit your vacation.
These popular short treks in Nepal are sure to offer you the best memories without the real hardships of the trek.