Where to Trek in Nepal for Your First Adventure

[ Nepal Guide ]

Nepal is for all levels of trekkers, be it seasoned adventurers or first-time trekkers, and one of the dream destinations for trekkers. If you are a novice trekker then need to choose a trek that provides a great view without being very difficult. Fortunately, out of all, Nepal shares many beginner-friendly treks that holistically offer brilliant views, culture and easily manageable terrains. The following are some of the best treks for beginners to kick start in Nepal.

Everest Base Camp

Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is good for beginners who want a more adventurous tour without going to extreme altitudes. It is a bit tougher than the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, however, it remains a perfect trek on offer to trekkers with moderate levels of fitness. The trek is of 12 to 14 days and passes via the Larkya La Pass at 5,160m in elevation.

Along the way to Mountain Camp, you will have views of the 8th-highest peak in the world, Manaslu, as well as visits to remote villages. As ethnically diverse region, the unique culture of the region’s Tamang, Gurung and Tibetan cultures can be experienced by the trekkers. Additionally, the Manaslu Circuit Trek provides the opportunity to enjoy the peace of the mountains without the usual crowds of the top treks.

Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most iconic treks in the world for dreamers who wish to reach the base of Mount Everest. It is a 12 to 14-day trek to the base camp, that includes a stunning flight to Lukla where you will start the ascent through Sherpa villages, dense forest and high-altitude landscape. The highest altitude reached by this trek is 5,364 m at Everest Base Camp where trekkers have views of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam.

The Everest Base Camp trek is slightly more challenging than other beginner treks, but it is still possible for fit trekkers if proper acclimatization days are taken. A once is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an awesome place to just stand at the foot of the tallest peak in the world.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Offering an alternative to those who want to experience the Everest grandeur, but not the actual physical challenges of the trekking is the Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour. One aerial adventure from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp in a few hours will get you a beautiful, stunning view of the Himalayan peaks: Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse.

If you are a first-time trekker or running short on time The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is the best opportunity to see up close one of the most exciting and Sherpa villages without having to hike. In addition, it’s a fantastic option for people with a limited time and would prefer to see Everest from a high altitude without doing the complete trek.

Trekking in the Himalayas

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is regarded as short but the most popular one in Nepal. We usually take 4 to 5 days to complete this trek and it is a moderate trek that has well-marked trails which make it a perfect way of introducing yourself to trekking in the Himalayas. Overnight teahouse is the highlight of this trek in which the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri can be seen from Poon Hill (3,210m).

The trek takes this path through some Gurung and Magar villages and dense rhododendrons in forest and shows glimpses of traditional Nepalese village life. It is at a moderate altitude and so altitude sickness risk is reduced making it accessible to most people. There is a special beauty to the trek during spring when the rhododendron forests are at their best bloom.

Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley trek is the best choice for beginners wanting a combination of Himalayan landscape and cultural exposure. The trek is located north of Kathmandu, takes about 7 to 8 days, and gets up to 3,870m at Kyanjin Gompa. It shows vistas of Langtang Lirung and glaciers, and some typical Tamang villages.

The trail crosses both moist forests, open meadows, and yak pastures with cultural points at monasteries and village settlements along the way. The trek is relatively manageable if you are a first-timer after having a relatively low altitude while gradually ascending and the Langtang region has its own charm and culture. This is the trek for people seeking a less packed proposition to the more mainstream Annapurna or Everest regions.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Another brilliant choice for newbies wanting a tougher trek would be Annapurna Base Camp trek. This is a 7 to 10 day trek through to a maximum altitude of 4,120 meters at the foot of the Annapurna massif. Though the hike is steep at times, the trails are well maintained and the teahouses are comfortable enough for people of moderate fitness.

The trek starts at Nayapul and further expectations of wonderful villages like Chhomrong, Sinuwa and Bamboo and then reaching the base camp. This trek is a close encounter with the giant Annapurna I and Machhapuchre and other big-scale peaks. However, the stunning views along with lush forests and terraced fields make it a rewarding experience for first-time trekkers willing for a little bit more of a challenge.

Tips for First-Time Trekkers

Preparation is very important for those new to trekking in Nepal to keep them safe and having fun during the entire trip. It is not pleasant but it is doable.

Training: Although these treks are listed as beginner-friendly, you must be in good physical shape. Cardio and leg exercises before you go are your way to focus.
Packing Wisely: Lightweight clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, a sleeping bag, water purification tablets.
Hydrating and Taking Breaks: This will help keep you energized and remain high without altitude sickness.
Acclimatize Properly: Don’t rush with climbing, take gradual ascents as most treks reach over 3,000 meters which can lead to altitude sickness.
Respect Local Culture: Treat locals with always respect and knowledge of their customs. You can use Nepali phrases like “Namaste” for greetings and “Dhanyabad” for thanking.
Choosing the Right Season: You must pick the right time to trek which happens to be the spring and autumn when the temperatures are moderate and you will also get clear skies.

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