3 Easy Treks in Nepal

April 24, 2018

Nepal is a Himalayan kingdom that offers a range of adventure activities including trekking, tours, rafting, paragliding, bungee, and more. There are several easy and short treks suitable for less experienced travelers such as families, kids, students, and those who are not physically fit. We recommend three easy treks that you can choose from based on your budget and time.

While Nepal is famous for adventurous treks like the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley Trek, and Annapurna Circuit Trek, these trips usually take over two weeks to complete and are recommended for seasoned adventure travelers.

However, there are numerous options available for travelers who are not as experienced. Short and easy treks offer ample opportunities to explore Himalayan vistas, local cultures, and lifestyles. The most popular, short, easy, and affordable trekking routes include:

1. Poon hill trekking
2. Langtang valley trekking
3. Short Everest trekking

Poon hill trekking

Poon Hill Trekking is one of the most popular and breathtaking treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek is named after Poon Hill, a famous viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

The trek starts from the beautiful city of Pokhara and passes through lush forests, rhododendron flowers, and traditional villages. The trail is well-marked and passes through various villages inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities. These villages offer a glimpse into the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people.

The trek is relatively easy and suitable for novice trekkers, families, and senior citizens. The highest point on the trek is Poon Hill at an altitude of 3210 meters, which can be reached after a short hike from the Ghorepani village.

The sunrise view from Poon Hill is a highlight of the trek, with the majestic Himalayas illuminated in golden light. The view of the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) is truly breathtaking.

The trek can be completed in 4-5 days and can be extended or shortened based on the traveler’s preference. The best time to undertake this trek is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is favorable with clear skies and mild temperatures.

Overall, Poon Hill Trekking is a perfect way to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Nepal’s Himalayas in a short and easy trek. It’s a highly recommended trek for those looking for a memorable adventure without pushing themselves to their physical limits.

Best time to go on the Poon hill trek

The best time to go on the Poon Hill trek in Nepal is during the autumn season, which is from September to November, and during the spring season, which is from March to May.

During the autumn season, the weather is generally clear and dry, providing excellent views of the Himalayan mountains. The temperature is also moderate, making it comfortable for trekking. In addition, the autumn season is also the time for several festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, which add to the cultural experience of the trek.

During the spring season, the weather is mild and dry, making it another great time to trek in the area. The temperature is also pleasant, and the blooming rhododendron flowers add to the beautiful scenery. Additionally, the spring season is also a good time for bird watching as many migratory birds come to the area.

However, it is important to note that the Poon Hill trek can be done year-round, but during the winter months (December to February) it can be quite cold and during the monsoon season (June to August) the trail can be slippery and muddy due to rain.

The top 10 highlights of the Poon Hill Trek include:

• Spectacular sunrise views from Poon Hill
• Panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchhre and Dhaulagiri
• Stunning views of the terraced hillsides and villages along the route
• Visit the high-altitude lake of Phewa Tal
• Visit the Gurung villages of Ghandruk, Ulleri, and Ghorepani
• Enjoying the local cuisine and culture
• Trekking through dense rhododendron forests
• Experiencing the unique Magar culture
• Exploring the various temples along the route
• Admiring the unique Nepalese architecture and art.

Poon hill trek Itinerary:

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga

• Start early from Pokhara and drive to Nayapul (1.5-2 hours)
• Begin the trek from Nayapul and walk through small villages and farmlands
• Trek uphill to Tikhedhunga (1,570m) and stay overnight

Day 2: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

• Start early in the morning and climb steep stone steps to Ulleri village
• Continue through the forest and walk uphill to reach Ghorepani (2,850m)
• Enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges
• Stay overnight at Ghorepani

Day 3: Hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani

• Wake up early in the morning and hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) to see the sunrise over the mountains
• Spend some time taking in the panoramic views and taking pictures
• Return to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue the trek to Tadapani (2,610m)
• The trail passes through rhododendron forests and offers scenic views of the mountains
• Stay overnight at Tadapani

Day 4: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk and drive back to Pokhara

• Descend through the forest and walk downhill to Ghandruk village (1,940m)
• Explore the village and learn about the local culture and lifestyle
• Drive back to Pokhara (2-3 hours) and conclude the trek

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted based on your preferences and physical abilities. It’s always a good idea to consult with a licensed trekking agency or guide before embarking on a trek in Nepal.

Langtang valley trekking

Langtang Valley Trekking is a popular and rewarding trek in the Langtang region of Nepal, which lies to the north of the Kathmandu Valley. The trek is known for its scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and cultural attractions.

The trek starts from the town of Syabrubesi and follows the Langtang River, passing through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. The trail offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Langtang Lirung (7,227 m), Gang Chhenpo (6,387 m), and Dorje Lakpa (6,990 m).

The Langtang Valley is inhabited by the Tamang people, who have a unique culture and tradition that is distinct from other ethnic groups in Nepal. The trek passes through several Tamang villages, where visitors can experience the local lifestyle, cuisine, and hospitality.

The highlight of the trek is Kyanjin Gompa, a Buddhist monastery and cheese factory located at an altitude of 3,870 meters. The monastery offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to explore the local culture and religion.

The trek can be completed in 7-10 days, and the best time to undertake the trek is from March to May and from September to December when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

Overall, Langtang Valley Trekking is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive cultural experience and stunning mountain vistas. It’s a moderate trek suitable for all fitness levels, and the route is less crowded than other popular treks in Nepal, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a quieter and more peaceful adventure.

Best time to go on the Langtang valley trek

The best time to go on the Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal is during the autumn season (September to November) and the spring season (March to May).

During the autumn season, the weather is usually stable, dry, and clear, providing excellent visibility and great views of the surrounding mountains. The temperatures are also pleasant, making it comfortable for trekking. Autumn is also the time when many festivals are celebrated in Nepal, including the biggest Hindu festival, Dashain, and the Tihar festival, which can add to the cultural experience of the trek.

The spring season is another great time to trek in the Langtang Valley. The weather is usually mild and dry, with blooming rhododendron flowers adding to the beautiful scenery. The temperatures are pleasant and it is a good time for bird watching as many migratory birds come to the area.

It is worth noting that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, and occasional snowfall even during the best times to trek. It is always advisable to check weather forecasts and consult with experienced trekking guides before embarking on the trek. Additionally, the Langtang Valley Trek can be done during the winter months (December to February), but it can be quite cold and snowy, and during the monsoon season (June to August), the trail can be slippery and muddy due to rain.

Langtang valley trek Highlights

The Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal offers a unique and stunning trekking experience, with several highlights including:

• Spectacular Mountain Views: The Langtang Valley Trek offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Gang Chhenpo (6,388m), and Dorje Lakpa (6,990m). The trek also offers panoramic views of the Langtang range and the Tibetan plateau.
• Cultural Experience: The Langtang region is home to the Tamang people, who are known for their unique culture, language, and way of life. Trekking through traditional Tamang villages and interacting with the locals provides a fascinating insight into their customs and traditions.
• Beautiful Forests and Scenery: The trek takes you through lush forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine, providing stunning scenery along the way. The Langtang National Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and musk deer.
• Kyanjin Gompa Monastery: Kyanjin Gompa is a Tibetan-style monastery located at an altitude of 3,870m. It is a spiritual center for the local Tamang people and offers a unique insight into their religious beliefs and practices.
• Tserko Ri Summit: A highlight of the trek is the opportunity to climb Tserko Ri (4,984m) for stunning panoramic views of the Langtang range. The climb is challenging but rewarding, and the views from the top are truly unforgettable.

Overall, the Langtang Valley Trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experience, and adventure, making it one of the most popular treks in Nepal.

Langtang valley trek Itinerary

Here is a sample itinerary for the Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal:

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi

• Depart early from Kathmandu and drive to Syabrubesi (1,550m)
• The drive takes around 7-8 hours and passes through scenic landscapes
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Syabrubesi

Day 2: Trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel

• Begin the trek and cross the Bhote Koshi River
• Trek through forests of oak and rhododendron and climb uphill to reach Lama Hotel (2,380m)
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Lama Hotel

Day 3: Trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village

• Trek through dense forests and cross several suspension bridges
• Reach the Langtang Valley and walk through traditional Tibetan-style villages
• Reach Langtang Village (3,430m) and stay overnight at a teahouse

Day 4: Trek from Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa

• Trek uphill and pass through yak pastures and glacial moraines
• Reach Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
• Explore the Kyanjin Gompa monastery and cheese factory
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Kyanjin Gompa

Day 5: Hike to Tserko Ri and back to Kyanjin Gompa

• Wake up early in the morning and hike to Tserko Ri (4,984m) for spectacular sunrise views over the Langtang range
• Descend back to Kyanjin Gompa for breakfast
• Spend the rest of the day exploring the area and resting
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Kyanjin Gompa

Day 6: Trek back to Lama Hotel

• Trek back down the Langtang Valley and pass through Langtang Village
• Descend through the forest and reach Lama Hotel
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Lama Hotel

Day 7: Trek back to Syabrubesi

• Trek back to Syabrubesi, passing through small villages and farmlands
• Reach Syabrubesi and celebrate the completion of the trek
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Syabrubesi

Day 8: Drive back to Kathmandu

• Drive back to Kathmandu and reflect on the amazing journey
• Reach Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted based on your preferences and physical abilities. It’s always a good idea to consult with a licensed trekking agency or guide before embarking on a trek in Nepal.

Short Everest Trek

The Short Everest Trek is a popular and convenient trekking option in the Everest region of Nepal. It is considered one of the three easy treks in Nepal, making it an ideal choice for trekkers who are short on time or who prefer an easier trekking experience.

Starting from the beautiful Sherpa village of Lukla, the trek takes you through the picturesque Phakding village, which is surrounded by rolling green hills and pine forests. As you trek, you will be greeted with spectacular views of the Everest region, including the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest.

Despite being in the Everest region, the Short Everest Trek is a relatively easy and short trek with a low altitude. The trek can be completed in a few days, making it accessible to inexperienced trekkers or those who are traveling with their families.

The highest point of the trek is Syangbuche hill, which is located at an altitude of 3780 meters. From here, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other popular mountains in the region.

During the trek, you will also have the opportunity to visit the Sherpa Museum, which offers a unique and interesting insight into the Sherpa culture and way of life.

Although there are many trekking regions and paths in Nepal, the Short Everest Trek, along with the Poon Hill Trek and the Langtang Valley Trek, are considered the three easy treks in Nepal. These treks are safe, offer easy access to food and accommodation, and provide trekkers with the opportunity to experience the Himalayan vistas, local life, culture, and flora and fauna of Nepal.

You can embark on a short and effortless trek in Nepal, either in the Everest region, Langtang region, or Annapurna region. For instance, a budget-friendly and brief trekking option in Nepal is the Annapurna & Langtang trek.

Best time to go on the Everest view trek

The best time to go on the Everest View Trek in Nepal is during the autumn season (September to November) and the spring season (March to May).

During the autumn season, the weather is usually stable, dry and clear, providing excellent visibility and great views of the surrounding mountains. The temperatures are also pleasant, making it comfortable for trekking. Autumn is also the time when many festivals are celebrated in Nepal, including the biggest Hindu festival, Dashain, and the Tihar festival, which can add to the cultural experience of the trek.

The spring season is another great time to trek in the Everest region. The weather is usually mild and dry, with blooming rhododendron flowers adding to the beautiful scenery. The temperatures are pleasant and it is a good time for bird watching as many migratory birds come to the area.

It is worth noting that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, and occasional snowfall even during the best times to trek. It is always advisable to check weather forecasts and consult with experienced trekking guides before embarking on the trek.

Major highlights of a short Everest Trek:

• Scenic Flight to Lukla: The short Everest trek begins with a thrilling 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan range.
• Trekking through Sagarmatha National Park: The trek takes you through the stunning Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard.
• Namche Bazaar: Namche Bazaar is the gateway to the Everest region and the main trading center for the Sherpa people. It’s a fascinating blend of traditional Sherpa culture and modern amenities.
• Tengboche Monastery: The Tengboche Monastery is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the region and offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
• Khumbu Glacier: The trek takes you past the Khumbu Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the world, and the source of the famous Khumbu Icefall.
• Everest View Hotel: The Everest View Hotel is located at an altitude of 3,880m/12,730ft and offers stunning views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan range.
• Kala Patthar: Kala Patthar is a popular viewpoint located at an altitude of 5,545m/18,192ft, offering unparalleled views of Mount Everest and the Khumbu Glacier.
• Sherpa Culture: The trek offers a unique opportunity to learn about Sherpa culture, including their religion, language, and way of life.
• Local Cuisine: The trek offers a chance to savor delicious local cuisine, including momos, dal bhat, and Sherpa stew, among others.
• The hospitality of the Sherpa People: The Sherpa people are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, making the trek a truly unforgettable experience.

Short Everest Trek itinerary

Here’s a sample itinerary for a short Everest Trek:

Day 1: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,562ft)

• Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m/9,315ft)
• Start trekking towards Phakding, a small village located on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Phakding

Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft)

• Trek through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Cross several suspension bridges and climb uphill to reach Namche Bazaar, the main trading center of the Khumbu region
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar

Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

• Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude
• Explore the local market, visit the Sagarmatha National Park Museum, or hike up to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar

Day 4: Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft)

• Trek toward Tengboche, a small village famous for its monastery and stunning mountain views
• Visit the Tengboche Monastery, the largest gompa in the Khumbu region
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Tengboche

Day 5: Trek back to Namche Bazaar

• Trek back downhill to Namche Bazaar
• Rest and explore the town
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar

Day 6: Trek back to Lukla

• Trek back downhill to Lukla
• Celebrate the completion of the trek with your trekking team and guides
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Lukla

Day 7: Fly back to Kathmandu

• Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu
• Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day exploring the city or relaxing

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted based on your preferences and physical abilities. It’s always a good idea to consult with a licensed trekking agency or guide before embarking on a trek in Nepal.