10 Best Short Treks in Nepal

Apart from its natural beauty, Nepal is also well-known for its hiking trails, be it short treks or longer treks. Short treks in Nepal have gained immense popularity for a variety of reasons. Firstly, they offer a perfect balance for those who wish to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas without committing to the time and physical demands of longer expeditions. Short treks typically span from a few days to a week, making them ideal for travelers with limited vacation time. These treks are often easier for beginner trekkers or those who might find the longer, more challenging treks too hard. 

Why do People Prefer Short Trek?

• Time-Saving: Short treks usually last a few days to a week, perfect for those with limited vacation time.
• Easier on the Body: These treks give you a taste of the Himalayas without the tough physical challenges of longer treks.
• Great for Beginners: Short treks are often easier and better suited for those new to trekking or who find longer ones too difficult.
• Less Gear Needed: You don’t need as much equipment or preparation, making these treks more spontaneous and convenient.
• Lower Risk of Altitude Sickness: These treks usually stay at lower altitudes, which means less chance of getting altitude sickness.
• Beautiful Scenery: Even on short treks, you can still enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas and beautiful landscapes.

Top 10 Short Treks in Nepal

Normally, Short treks in Nepal range from 3 days to 11 days and are considered less challenging than other longer treks. Here are the lists of the best 10 short treks in Nepal.

• Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek
• Three Days Chisapani Nagarkot Trek
• Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Langtang Valley Trek
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• Annapurna Foothill Trek
• Lower Mustang Trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Australian Camp & Sarangkot Trek 
• Tamang Heritage Trek

1. Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek

Gosaikunda Trek is one of the popular short-trekking destinations for all beginner and pro hikers. The destination normally attracts domestic hikers for cultural significance. The Gosaikunda and Helambu Trek combine cultural and natural beauty. Helambu offers the charm of local villages, while Gosaikunda lets you explore 108 sacred lakes. The Gosaikunda and Helambu Lakes offer a short trek and exciting adventure in the Langtang region of Nepal. The trail starts north of Kathmandu and leads to Gosaikunda Lake. 

Highlights of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: 3 days  
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging  
• Maximum Elevation: 4,380m (Gosaikunda Lake)  
• Required Permits: Langtang National Park Permit  
• Restricted Permits: None  
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges in local villages  
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)  
• Major Attractions: Gosaikunda Lake, Helambu region, 108 sacred lakes, cultural significance for Hindus and Buddhists, views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Hiunchuli, traditional Tamang villages, ancient monasteries, Laurebina Pass, Langtang and Shivapuri National Parks, endangered wildlife, and lush forests filled with rhododendrons, pine, fir, and oak trees.

How to get there?

To start the Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek, take a drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, the trek’s starting point, which is approximately 117 kilometers away and takes about 6-7 hours by road. From Dhunche, follow the trail that ascends to Gosainkunda Lake and continues through the Helambu region, passing through lush forests, traditional villages, and sacred lakes.

2. Three Days Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

The Three Days Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is one of the best short treks from Pokhara for those who want to experience the beauty of Nepal in a short time. This 3-day trek in Nepal offers stunning views of the Himalayas and takes you through charming villages and lush forests.

Starting from Kathmandu, the trek leads you to Chisapani, a peaceful village known for its natural beauty. The journey continues to Nagarkot, a popular hill station famous for its sunrise and sunset views over the mountains. 

Highlights of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: 3 days  
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate  
• Maximum Elevation: 2,175m (Nagarkot)  
• Required Permits: Shivapuri National Park Permit  
• Restricted Permits: None  
• Accommodation: Guesthouses and lodges in Chisapani and Nagarkot  
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)  
• Major Attractions: Chisapani village, Nagarkot hill station, sunrise and sunset views over the mountains, Shivapuri National Park, forest paths with dams, ponds, and waterfalls, Changu Narayan Temple (UNESCO World Heritage site), intricate carvings, distinctive pagoda style, historical sculptures, and statues.

How to get there?

Begin the Three Days Chisapani Nagarkot Trek with a short drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, which takes about an hour. From Sundarijal, trek through the Shivapuri National Park to reach Chisapani on the first day. Continue your trek to Nagarkot, a popular hill station known for its sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas, completing your journey with a drive back to Kathmandu.

3. Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Short Annapurna Base Camp is one of the common hiking trails for hikers seeking a thrilling adventure. This trek takes you through some of Nepal’s most stunning landscapes, including majestic mountain ranges, beautiful forests, and charming villages. This short Annapurna Base Camp route includes the travel upto five exciting days, allowing trekkers to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna region without committing to a long time. 

Highlight of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: 5 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 4,130m (Annapurna Base Camp)
• Required Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges along the trekking route
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Annapurna Base Camp, snow-covered mountains, stunning views, rhododendron forests, picturesque villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, and breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region.

How to get there?

To start the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, travel from Pokhara to Nayapul, a drive that takes about 1.5 hours. From Nayapul, trek through picturesque villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, ascending through beautiful rhododendron forests and terraced fields. The journey continues up to the Annapurna Base Camp, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

4. Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley Trek is perfect for those looking to explore Nepal in a short time. This trek in Nepal offers stunning views of the Himalayas, charming villages, and lush forests. Starting from Kathmandu, the trek leads you to the Langtang Valley, known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage.

Highlight of the trek:

• Trek Duration: 3 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 4,984m (Tserko Ri)
• Required Permits: Langtang National Park Permit
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges in Langtang Valley
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Langtang Valley, panoramic views from Tserko Ri, snow-capped peaks like Langtang Himal, Ganjala Peak, and Langtang Ri, century-old Buddhist monasteries (Langtang Gompa and Kyanjin Gompa), Langtang National Park, diverse flora and fauna, and the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture in local villages.

How to get there?

The Langtang Valley Trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, which is approximately 122 kilometers away and takes about 7-8 hours by road. From Syabrubesi, trek through the lush landscapes of Langtang National Park, passing through traditional Tamang villages, dense forests, and open meadows. The trek culminates in the beautiful Langtang Valley, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.

5. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a fantastic short trek in Nepal that offers incredible views and cultural experiences. The trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill provides access to Nepal’s classic viewpoints of the Annapurna Mountain range and takes you through local Gurung and Magar communities. 

Highlight of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: Variable (depends on itinerary, often around 4-5 days)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 3,210m (Poon Hill)
• Required Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses in local villages
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Phewa Lake in Pokhara, monasteries and temples, bungee jumping, 3,381 steps to Poon Hill, views of Dhaulagiri Peak and the Annapurna range, sunrise at Poon Hill, rivers, alpine lakes, Gurung and Magar villages, and local customs and traditions.

How to get there?

Start the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, which takes about 1.5 hours. From Nayapul, begin your trek through lush forests and charming villages like Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani. The highlight of this trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill, where you can witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

6. Annapurna Foothill Trek

The Annapurna Foothill Trek is one of the best short treks in Pokhara, offering an easy yet enriching experience in Nepal. This trek provides breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and takes you through lush green hillsides and traditional villages. As you trek, you’ll enjoy the majestic Himalayas up close and pass through subtropical forests and cultivable lands, capturing the essence of Nepal’s natural beauty.

Highlight of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: Variable (typically 3-5 days)
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Maximum Elevation: Around 2,000m (varies by specific itinerary)
• Required Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges in traditional villages
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Views of the Annapurna range, lush green hillsides, traditional villages, subtropical forests, cultivable lands, adventurous activities in Pokhara (rafting, monasteries, temples), interaction with locals, customs of Gurung and Magar communities, sunrises over the Annapurna range, and panoramic valley views.

How to get there?

To begin the Annapurna Foothill Trek, take a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, which is about 1.5 hours away. From Nayapul, trek through beautiful rhododendron forests and terraced fields, passing through traditional villages like Ghandruk. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality.

7. Lower Mustang Trek

The Lower Mustang Trek can be managed as a 3-day short trek in Nepal, perfect for those with limited time but looking for a rewarding adventure. It’s categorized as moderate and is ideal for families. The trek takes you through the Kali Gandaki Valley’s historic trade route to Tibet, offering stunning vistas of peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Himchuli. Mustang’s landscape, resembling the Tibetan plateau, is dry and barren, falling in the Himalayan rain shadow. 

Highlight of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: 3 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: Around 3,800m (Muktinath)
• Required Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges in local villages
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Kali Gandaki Valley, peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Himchuli, Tibetan plateau-like landscape, deepest gorge, traditional villages, sunrise and sunset views, rich biodiversity, Tibetan Buddhist culture, the ancient trade route to Tibet, Muktinath (sacred site for Hindus), and stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

How to get there?

Jomsom, the starting point of the Lower Mustang Trek, can be reached either by roadways or by airways. The easiest way is to fly: take a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a 20-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. Alternatively, you can drive from Kathmandu to Jomsom, which takes about 10 to 12 hours. If you choose to drive, be prepared for rough and muddy conditions after Beni. A private jeep or flight is recommended for a more comfortable journey.

8. Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek is a less-traveled and unexplored destination in Nepal. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri. Start your adventure by enjoying Pokhara, where you can try rafting, and visit local attractions such as Davis Falls and Mahendra Cave. 

Highlight of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: Variable (typically 7-10 days)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
• Maximum Elevation: 4,500m (High Camp)
• Required Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges in local villages
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Views of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Pokhara attractions (Davis Falls, Mahendra Cave), diverse trails with rich flora and fauna, villages with Buddhist prayer flags, wheels, temples, Mani walls, local Buddhist culture, interaction with villagers, and stunning views from High Camp and Mardi Himal Camp.

How to get there?

Accessible from Pokhara, this trek is ideal for those looking for a unique adventure. If coming from Kathmandu, you can drive to Pokhara in about 6-7 hours or take a 30-minute flight. From Pokhara, continue your journey to Phedi by a 30-minute drive, where your trek begins.

9. Australian Camp & Sarangkot Trek 

Australian Camp sits at 2,060 meters above sea level, providing breathtaking views of the Annapurna massifs, including Annapurna South, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, and the Dhaulagiri Himalayas. This trek highlights the natural beauty of the Annapurna range and showcases picturesque villages, lush green hills, and a rich cultural heritage, making it ideal for adventurers of all ages and experience levels.

Highlight of the Trek: 

• Trek Duration: Variable (typically 2-3 days)
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 2,060m (Australian Camp)
• Required Permits: None
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges in local villages
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Views of Annapurna South, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri Himalayas, picturesque villages, lush green hills, Gurung and Magar villages, wildlife spotting (birds and animals), beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayas, and convenient access from Pokhara.

How to get there?

To reach the Australian Camp & Sarangkot Trek, start from Pokhara, a charming city in western Nepal. From Pokhara, travel west on the Pokhara-Baglung Highway to Kande, the trek’s starting point, which is approximately 30 kilometers away and takes about 45 minutes by car. A private vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in Pokhara, and from Kande, follow the foot trail leading through picturesque villages and into the heart of the trek.

10. Tamang Heritage Trek

The Tamang Heritage Trek is a culturally enriching short trek in Nepal, perfect for those who want to explore the traditions and landscapes of the Tamang people. This trek, situated near the Langtang region, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the Tamang community, known for its Tibetan-influenced traditions. The trek combines beautiful natural scenery with cultural exploration, making it a rewarding adventure.

Highlight of the Trek:

• Trek Duration: 3 days
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
• Maximum Elevation: Approximately 3,000m (varies by specific itinerary)
• Required Permits: Langtang National Park Permit
• Restricted Permits: None
• Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges in Tamang villages
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
• Major Attractions: Tamang villages, verdant forests, terraced fields, views of Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal, interaction with local Tamang families, ancient monasteries, traditional dances and customs, and the cultural heritage of the Tamang community.

How to get there?

To begin the Tamang Heritage Trek, start your journey in Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, take a scenic drive to Syabrubesi, the trek’s starting point, which is approximately 122 kilometers away and takes about 7-8 hours by road. The drive offers picturesque views of the countryside and the Trishuli River. Once in Syabrubesi, follow the trail that leads through Tamang villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, immersing yourself in the cultural and natural beauty of the region.

Conclusion

Nepal offers a range of stunning short treks that allow you to experience its natural beauty and cultural richness in just a few days. From the culturally immersive Tamang Heritage Trek and the spiritually significant Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek to the quick yet rewarding Three Days Chisapani Nagarkot Trek and Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you choose the breathtaking Langtang Valley Trek or the picturesque Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, these short treks in Nepal ensure a memorable adventure. Even with limited time, the Annapurna Foothill Trek and other short treks from Pokhara offer unparalleled views and cultural experiences, making Nepal trekking in 3 days an unforgettable journey.

FAQs on Short Trek in Nepal

Which treks are easy in Nepal?

If you’re looking for easy treks in Nepal, consider the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek for stunning sunrise views with minimal difficulty. The Three-Day Chisapani Nagarkot Trek offers scenic landscapes and local village experiences without strenuous hiking. The Annapurna Foothill Trek provides gentle trails through lush forests and charming villages. For a cultural touch, the Tamang Heritage Trek is an accessible option that immerses you in the Tamang community’s traditions.

Which is the Shortest Trek in Nepal, in the Himalayas?

The Three-Day Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is among the shortest treks in the Himalayas in Nepal, offering a quick escape with rewarding views and cultural experiences. This trek provides a compact yet fulfilling adventure, allowing you to enjoy stunning landscapes and traditional villages in just three days.

Which Trekking Destination is Less Crowded in Nepal?

For a less crowded trekking experience in Nepal, the Tamang Heritage Trek is an excellent choice. Located in the Langtang region, this trek offers a unique cultural immersion with fewer trekkers than popular routes like the Annapurna or Everest regions. It provides a serene adventure through traditional Tamang villages and picturesque landscapes.

Is it Possible to Trek Alone in Nepal?

Yes, it is possible to trek alone in Nepal, but it’s important to be well-prepared and informed about your chosen route. Popular short treks in Nepal, like the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the Annapurna Foothill Trek, are manageable solo, provided you follow safety guidelines and local regulations. Hiring a guide or joining a small group can enhance safety and provide local insights.