Nepal offers a wide variety of trekking trails. For those who have a limited holiday in Nepal but still, want to see some of the Himalayas, here are what we think are the small best short treks in Nepal ranging from 3 to 10 days.
Please keep in mind that, you can extend days according to your interest in all of these treks, the number of days listed here represents the minimum number of days you need to complete these trails.
When it comes to trekking, Probably Nepal is the most popular destination among trekkers. As we all know best treks in Nepal such as Everest base camp trek & Upper Mustang trek need more than ten days of holidays. What if you don’t have enough holidays?
Here are the list of 10 best short treks in Nepal.
Contents
1. Nagarkot Trek
Three-day Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot trekking is most popular among those who have less time in Nepal. Nagarkot is a favorite hill station for a sunrise & sunset view over white mountains. Short Himalaya & Everest view trek is an excellent choice for a family trip including children to see the nature and experience the cultural and traditional aspect of the people’s lives.
The trek is famous for panoramic views of Langtang and Everest Himalayan ranges including Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishanker and many more. Besides the beautiful views of the mountains, you can also see some wildlife in the jungles between Chisapani and Nagarkot like deer and fowls. Therefore, Chisapani Nagarkot trek is considered as the best short trek near Kathmandu valley.
Trip Duration : 03 Days
Max Altitude : 2,400 m
Trip Difficulty : Very Easy
Best Season : March to May and October to November
3 Days Itinerary From Kathmandu
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Sundarijal and hike to Chisapani | 2,150 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 02 | Hike to Nagarkot | 2,163 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 03 | Hike to Dhulikhel and drive to Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 5 hrs |
2. Poon Hill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a great short trek for those who want to experience trekking. Besides experiencing trekking, you can see a great view of the sunrise and sunset over the snow-capped white mountain. Ghorepani trek is the most popular short trek near & from Pokhara. Rhododendron forest walks, Charming Gurung villages & their hospitality are the highlights of this moderate trek.
Poon hill trek also offers stunning views of the famous mountains like Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Annapurna I, Annapurna South and Fishtail. Besides that, you will get to walk through the rhododendron & green forests accompanied by magnificent waterfalls. So, poon hill trek is known for the best short trek from Pokhara; therefore on peak trekking season such as Autumn, there will be high numbers of trekkers on the way.
Trip Duration : 03 Days From Pokhara
Max Altitude : 3,210 m, Poon Hill
Trip Difficulty : Very Easy
Best Season : March to May and October to November
3 Days Itinerary From Pokhara
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Kyumi and trek to Tadapani | 2,630 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 02 | Trek to Ghorepani | 2,840 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 03 | Hike up to Poon Hill, trek to Hile and drive to Pokhara | 1,400 m | 7 hrs |
3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the beautiful treks in the Annapurna region most popular among foreigner. The fabulous mountain scenery, rich cultural diversity traverses, rural farmlands, pretty villages with locals having smiley welcome faces are the main attractions of the trek. Annapurna Base Camp Trek goes through the villages of Tamang, Thakali, Magar and Gurung People who have a unique lifestyle and have a perfect sense of Hospitality.
As you get nearer to the Annapurna base camp, you will get to see the view of Mount Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I and many more. Annapurna base camp trek takes nine days to finish including Ghorepani & Poon Hill. But, still, if you are seeking for short trek because of the limited holiday schedule, you can do this trek on seven days too without visiting Ghorepani & poon hill you can directly reach base camp via Chomrong.
Trip Duration : 07 Days From Pokhara
Max Altitude : 4,310 m
Trip Difficulty : Moderate
Best Season : March to May and October to November
7 Days Itinerary From Pokhara
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk | 2,600 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 02 | Ghandruk - Chhomrong - Sinuwa | 3,230 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 03 | Sinuwa - Bamboo - Dovan - Himalayan - Deurali | 3,440 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 04 | Deurali - MBC - Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 05 | Annapurna Base Camp - MBC- Deurali - Himalayan - Dovan -Bamboo | 3,110 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 06 | Bamboo - Sinuwa - Chhomrong - Jhinu - Kyumi | 2,170m | 6 hrs |
| Day 07 | Kyumi - Siwai - Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara | 1,400 m | 6 hrs |
4. Everest View Trek
Everest View Trek is located in Khumbu Valley is one of the best short treks in Nepal. Impressive views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Mt. Amadablam from Everest View Hotel (View Point) is the main highlight of the trek. Everest View Trek is known as Everest Panorama Trek & Mini Everest trek. This trek is best for those who wish to dream of looking Mt. Everet once in their life because this trek takes you to the stunning views of the entire Everest range.
You’ll encounter lush valleys, extraordinary views of rivers, hikes over a suspension bridge and Flora and Fauna. Everest view trek begins from Luka, being one of the short and comparatively most comfortable trekking trails of Everest regions. Not only that, you will be able to experience the culture and lifestyle of Sherpas.
Trip Duration : 07 Days
Max Altitude : 3,870 m, Everest View Hotel
Trip Difficulty : Easy
Best Season : March to May and October to November
7 Days Itinerary From Kathmandu
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding | 2,651 m | 4 hrs |
| Day 02 | Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 3,440 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 03 | Acclimatization day, Day trip to Khumjung | 3,700 m | 5 hrs |
| Day 04 | Namche Bazaar to Tengboche | 3,870 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 05 | Tengboche to Monjo | 2,840 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 06 | Monjo to Lukla | 2,860 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 07 | Fly back to Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 40 min |
5. Lower Mustang Trek
Lower Mustang Trek is known as Jomsom Muktinath trek is one of the beautiful trekking in Annapurna and Mustang Region. Anyone with a moderate level of fitness can complete this short trek in Nepal. For those who don’t want to trek up to high altitude, this is an excellent choice. Even though is at a low height, you can still witness numerous Trans Himalayan cultural sites, incredible snow-capped mountain views, and fantastic countryside sceneries.
The trail will go through stunning landscape, rhododendrons forest and world’s deepest Kaligandaki gorge. We pass through Jomsom and Kagbeni, the entry point of upper Mustang Region, Holy Hindu pilgrimage site, Muktinath which equally sacred place for Buddhists too. We can see the beautiful views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and other peaks. Besides, we will also explore the centuries-old monastery, local tribes, and caves along with the beautiful scenic beauty. For this reason, Lower Mustang trek is considered as the best short trek in Nepal.
Trip Duration : 05 Days From Pokhara
Max Altitude : 3,800 m, Muktinath
Trip Difficulty : Easy
Best Season : March to May and October to November
5 Days Itinerary From Pokhara
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni | 2,900 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 02 | Trek to Jharkot; Visit to Red Gompa | 3,520 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 03 | Day trip to Muktinath | 3,710 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 04 | Trek to Jomsom via Lupra Valley | 2,790 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 05 | Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara | 1,400 m | 30 min |
6. Langtang Valley Trek
Trek to Langtang valley is beautiful short trekking in Nepal through forests, villages, and farmlands. Langtang Valley is also known as “the valley of glaciers.” Heartwarming hospitality from the local people Tamang & sherpa community is the main attraction of the trek. The local follow Tibetan Buddhism and the traditional religion. Langtang valley was affected by the devastating earthquake that hit Nepal in 2015. The local villagers are rebuilding their homeland since then.
If you are seeking short, comfortable and want to stay out from the busy cities, Langtang Valley trek is a perfect place. We pass through the Rhododendron, Bamboo, Pine Forests and majestic waterfalls rushing down over Gigantic boulders. We will get some great views of the nearby peaks including Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Lirung, Yala peak and eventually Shisha Pangma, the only 8,000-meter peak in Tibet. Thus, Langtang valley trek is known for the best short trek which also easily assessable by children & beginner trekkers.
Trip Duration : 07 Days
Max Altitude : 4,984 m, Tserko Ri
Trip Difficulty : Moderate
Best Season : March to May and October to November
7 Days Itinerary From Kathmandu
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Syabrubesi | 1,550 m | 5 hrs |
| Day 02 | Trek to Lama Hotel | 2,380 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 03 | Trek to Langtang town | 3,430 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 04 | Trek to Kyanjin Gompa | 3,870 m | 4 hrs |
| Day 05 | Visit Kyanjin Ri Peak and trek back to Lama Hotel | 2,380 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 06 | Trek over to Syabrubesi | 1,550 m | 5 hrs |
| Day 07 | Drive back to Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 6 hrs |
7. Ghandruk Trek
Ghandruk is small Gurung village lying in North West side of lakeside Pokhara at an altitude of 2,010m. It is one of the most popular short trekking routes of Nepal as Ghandruk is the gateway to Annapurna Base Camp too. One can reach Ghandruk after 6-7 hours short Hiking from Nayapool. If you do not prefer trekking, then the vehicle can help you to reach Ghandruk from Nayapool within 1.5 hours and then 1-hour hiking to the village. You can experience beautiful villages like Hyangja, Phedi, Naudanda on the way to Ghandruk.
Ghandruk trekking offers gorgeous landscapes and a magnificent view of snow-capped mountains views. Local Gurung people welcome the tourists with providing them to wear Gurung ornaments make them take photographs. Ghandruk village seems the perfect blend of natural majesty and cultural diversity. You can see Mt. Macchapucchre (Fish Tail) and Annapurna South close from Ghandruk. Due to the Local culture, locally made foods, Ghandruk’s homestays, Ghandruk trek becomes the best place to spend your holiday.
Trip Duration : 03 Days From Pokhara
Max Altitude : 2,010 m, Ghandruk Village
Trip Difficulty : Very Easy
Best Season : March to May and October to November
3 Days Itinerary From Pokhara
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk | 2,015 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 02 | Trek from Ghandruk to Pothana | 1,900 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 03 | Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara | 1,400 m | 6 hrs |
8. Pikey Peak Trek
Pikey Peak Trek is a new trekking route in Khumbu, invites us to explore the Everest and lower Khumbu region. It offers beautiful sunset and sunrise views over the nearby peaks along with the unique experience of Sherpa culture and lifestyle. We will get an opportunity to view the most esteemed Himalayan range in the World includes Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, and many other snow-covered peaks. Being a freshly introduced trekking route, the off-beaten less crowded trekking trail attracts many tourists who don’t prefer to trek on a crowd.
On the other hand, Edmond Hillary’s favorite trekking route to Everest provides mesmerizing views of Mt. Everest (8848m) from a lower elevation. By which, Pikey peak trek considered as one of the best short treks in Nepal to see Everest closer without trekking up to the higher altitude. The journey leads us to the Pikey Base Camp with the thick spread of rich Buddhist culture along the way. The lush valleys, old monasteries, huge Mani walls, beautiful vegetation, rhododendron forests, beautiful sunset and sunrise views are the major attractions of this trek. Pikey peak is famous for its tranquil landscapes, unique Sherpa culture, and stunning mountain views.
Trip Duration : 05 Days
Max Altitude : 3,640 m, Pikey Base Camp
Trip Difficulty : Easy
Best Season : March to May and October to November
5 Days Itinerary From Kathmandu
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Dhap, Trek to Japre | 2,915 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 02 | Trek from Japre to Pikey Base Camp | 3,640 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 03 | Trek to Chaulakharka via Pikey Peak | 2,920 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 04 | Trek from Chaulakharka to Shivalaya | 2,840 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 05 | Drive from Shivalaya to Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 12 hrs |
9. Gosaikunda Trek
Gosaikunda trek known for its spectacular and breathtaking scenic beauty is one of the best trekking destinations in Nepal. This trek will be a good option for those that have limited time. Gosaikunda lake is also a holy lake in the Langtang region. It is considered as a sacred by both Hindus and Buddhist. It is believed that once you bath in this lake all your pain, sorrows and sins will be washed off.
Gosaikunda trek at an altitude of 4,300m offers hiking through the dense forest of rhododendron, oak, bamboo and beautiful villages of Tamang and Sherpa. During Gosaikunda trek we can see dynamic views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal range, Himal Chuli, Manaslu range, and other Tibetan peaks. On a clear day, you could also see Annapurna rising far behind the mountains.
Trip Duration : 07 Days
Max Altitude : 4,380 m, Gosaikunda Lake
Trip Difficulty : Moderate
Best Season : March to May and October to November
7 Days Itinerary From Kathmandu
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Syabru Besi | 1,600 m | 8 hrs |
| Day 02 | Trek to Lama Hotel | 2,410 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 03 | Trek to Thulo Syabru | 2,230 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 04 | Trek to Shin Gompa | 3,330 m | 4 hrs |
| Day 05 | Trek to Gosaikunda | 4,460 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 06 | Trek to Dhunche | 1,300 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 07 | Drive back to Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 6 hrs |
10. Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal trek, a short trek in Nepal follows off beaten trails. Situated just east of one of the most popular treks, Annapurna Base Camp trek, Mardi Himal trek is a hidden gem of Annapurna. The trek was officially opened in 2012 and is still pristine having limited teahouses with basic facilities.
Similarly, Mardi Himal trek is a short relatively easy and unspoiled trek near Pokhara. Cultural insight, beautiful rhododendron forest walks, and alpine landscape make the trek more beautiful journey. Mardi Himal trek is famous because of the beautiful mountain landscape, with fantastic views of Mardi Himal, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Manaslu, Hiuchuli, and entire Annapurna range.
Trip Duration : 05 Days
Max Altitude : 4,500 m, Mardi Himal Base Camp
Trip Difficulty : Moderate
Best Season : March to May and October to November
5 Days Itinerary From Pokhara
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Drive to Kade & Trek to Forest Camp | 2,554 m | 7 hrs |
| Day 02 | Trek to High Camp | 3,980 m | 8 hrs |
| Day 03 | Trek to Viewpoint & Rest at high / Low Camp | 4,500 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 04 | Trek to Siding / Lumre | 1,700 m | 6 hrs |
| Day 05 | Drive to back Pokhara | 1,400 m | 5 hrs |
