1. Ghorepani/Poon Hill
2. Royal Trek
3. Ghandruk Trek
4. Dhampus/Sarangkot
5. Tamang Heritage Trail
6. Helambu Trek
7. Narphu Valley
8. Mardi Himal
9. Jomsom Muktinath Trek
10. Pikey Peak
Ghorepani/Poon Hill
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a delightful and highly regarded short trek known for its breathtaking beauty in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It has gained popularity as an accessible and visually stunning trek, attracting a significant number of hikers. The trek does not require advanced fitness levels, as walking is safe and easy, making it suitable for retirees and children. To lighten the load, trekkers can stay in tea houses along the route instead of carrying excessive equipment. The landscape is constantly changing, encompassing lush green forests, mountainous areas, and expansive rice fields.
Throughout the trek, the magnificent Machhapuchhare, also known as Fishtail Peak, dominates the scenery. The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly Poon Hill, offering one of the most impressive views in Nepal. From the viewpoint of Poon Hill, you can witness the grandeur of two towering 8,000-meter peaks, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I. If you choose to ascend the hill during sunrise, you will be rewarded with the spectacular sight of the golden sun ascending over the mountain summits. With an altitude of only 3,210 meters, altitude sickness is rarely a concern on this trek.
Royal Trek
Royal Trek derives its name from King Charles III, who embarked on this journey in the early 1980s. It is an ideal trek for beginners, featuring a gradual incline that allows for a leisurely walk along the foothills of the Annapurna range. This trek is relatively short, and the areas surrounding the route are inhabited by various ethnic tribes with vibrant cultural traditions. The Royal Trek commences from Bijapur, a locality located about a thirty-minute drive from Pokhara. Along the trek, you will encounter unique viewpoints such as Syaglung Danda and Pachabhaya Danda, offering captivating vistas. The trek concludes in the vicinity of Begnas and Rupa Lakes, creating a picturesque ending to the journey.
Ghandruk Trek
Embark on the Ghandruk Village Trek, a highly popular trekking route in the Annapurna region. This trek takes you to the charming mountain village of Ghandruk, which has been recognized by CNN as one of Asia's most picturesque towns. Marvel at the breathtaking views of majestic mountains like Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Himchuli. The region is predominantly inhabited by the Gurung people, who have a renowned history of serving in the British Army's Gurkha regiments. Explore the Gurung Museum to delve into their rich culture and traditions.
The Ghandruk trek offers a relatively easy experience, making it ideal for beginners and families. The journey commences with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande, followed by a trek to Ghandruk via the village of Landruk. Enjoy the captivating views from the village nestled amidst the mountains. Wake up early to witness the enchanting sunrise over Ghandruk village before descending to Modi Khola and trekking up to Pothana via Deurali. On the following day, your trek concludes as you trek to Nayapul via Siwai, from where you will be driven back to Pokhara.
Dhampus/Sarangkot
Dhampus Sarangkot Trek takes you to three popular viewpoint locations in Pokhara: Sarangkot, Dhampus, and Naudanda. Enjoy the panoramic view of mountains such as Annapurna I, II, Fishtail, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, and others. Sarangkot is well-known for its spectacular dawn over the Himalayas, as well as its breathtaking views of Lake Phewa and Pokhara City. From the peak of Sarangkot, several paragliders take off and fly across the Pokhara sky. Sarangkot is home to the Damai village, whereas Dhampus is home to the Gurungs. Discover the local culture and enjoy the wonderful local friendliness. During the hike, you will get to witness Nepal's rural life. It is one of Nepal's easiest hikes, ideal for beginners.
Tamang Heritage Trail
The Tamang Heritage Trail is titled after the ethnic community that lives in the region. As a result, you will have the opportunity to experience and understand Tamang culture throughout the trek. The indigenous Tamang people arrived from Tibet, taking their language, religion, and attire with them. Tamang Heritage is a six-day trip that begins at Syabrubesi 2,380m. Syabrubesi is also the starting point for the Langtang Valley trek. The trail continues past several terraced fields and river basins. Moreover, you will look gorgeous with views of Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Langtang Ri (7,205m), and the Gosaikunda range (4,380m) along the walk. Similarly, you may relax in the natural hot spring Tatopani. You will also reach a peak height of only 2,400 meters on this hike. As a result, the Tamang heritage trip is an easy and enjoyable journey in the high Himalayas.
Helambu Trek
The Helambu village trek is a beautiful stroll across the countryside on high ridges and lovely hills. The trip follows the northern rim of the Kathmandu Valley. Helambu village is in a pristine setting with breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung (7,245m) and the Jugal Himal range (3,800m). The walk is a 6-day fascinating excursion, thus it is a reasonably simple hike. At 3,600m, you will reach the highest point of the journey. As a result, it is one of the most popular treks for beginners. The trek to Helambu village begins with a short drive from Kathmandu (1,350m) to Sundarijal (1,380m). Eventually, you will ascend a route on the Shivapuri ridge, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It's a peaceful walk through the gorgeous woods flowering with rhododendron and magnolia. Following your investigation of Helambu village, you will travel north to Thare Pati and Melemchi Gaon. You will next visit the famed Shermathang before descending to the Melamchi River. The trek ends with a journey return to Kathmandu from Melamchi Bazaar.
Narphu Valley
Mardi Himal
An easy hike in Nepal's Annapurna area is the Mardi Himal climb. The Mardi trip is perfect for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path trekking adventure in the serene areas of the stunning Annapurna range. You may experience tranquil and crowded-free pathways because the hike isn't very popular. You will reach High Camp at 3,580 meters and Base Camp at 4,500 meters via the wonderful trek paths. Most of the routes meander through lush forests and charming small communities. You will be on solo, easy routes for 5-7 hours each day. The paths, however, might be challenging in the winter because of the significant snowfall. The best time to start the Mardi Himal walk is thus in the autumn or spring. During the spring and fall seasons, the weather is clear and crisp. As a result, you may delight in the brilliant rivers and breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna 8,091m, Machhapuchhre 6,993m, and Hiunchuli Mountains 6,441m.
Jomsom Muktinath Trek
The Jomsom Muktinath Trek, also known as the Lower Mustang Trek, offers a peaceful journey through the desert-like terrains of the Tibetan Plateau. This thrilling trek takes you through a deep valley surrounded by steep landscapes and the magnificent Annapurna range. It is an excellent choice for a shorter trek to experience the beauty of the Mustang Valley. The trek is relatively easy, as it traverses the regions between Annapurna and Mustang, providing stunning views of the towering Annapurna (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) mountains. Following the ancient trade route that connects to Tibet, you will hike alongside the majestic Kali Gandaki river, encountering off-the-beaten-path trails adorned with cozy teahouses run by Gurung and Thakali families.
Furthermore, this trek offers the opportunity to witness renowned pilgrimage sites that hold significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath (3,817 meters) is one such holy site you will explore during this remarkable journey. Additionally, you will have the pleasure of immersing yourself in the beauty of the Jomsom Valley while undertaking the Lower Mustang Trek.
Pikey Peak
Pikey Peak Trek is for individuals who wish to see Everest in person but choose a less strenuous and quicker path than the main demanding journey. Indeed, this path is easily accessible from Kathmandu through a brief 25-minute flight or an 8-hour drive. According to the great Sir Edmund Hillary, this low-altitude hiking location is the best site to see Mt. Everest, and he is right. Furthermore, this eight-day journey brings hikers through pristine natural landscapes, beautiful Sherpa towns, and their distinct cultures and traditions. Furthermore, this off-the-beaten-path in the Lower Everest region offers visits to several majestic monasteries, stupas, and gompas at various stopovers. Observing beautiful sunrise and sunset over towering peaks from the summit of Pikey Peak is one of the highlights of this expedition. It is a fun trek that offers spectacular views of the Everest region while requiring less energy and time. As a result, it is one of the best short treks in Nepal for beginners.
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