18 Best Hikes in Nepal, from Himalayan Passes to Hilltop Shrines

Nepal’s hiking routes vary in length, altitude and access. A day hike above Pokhara can fit between other plans; a pass crossing or remote base-camp trek needs a longer itinerary, acclimatization and room for weather delays. The routes below draw on the country’s mission catalogue, from well-known trails to less-travelled districts.

Before choosing a route, check the current guide, TIMS and protected-area rules for that exact area. Nepal Tourism Board says specific protected areas require a licensed trekking guide and an agency-issued TIMS card. Restricted areas have additional permits. Conditions can change with snow, rain and landslides, so confirm trail status locally.

Nepal hikes at a glance

The best hikes in Nepal

Trek to Everest Base Camp

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi valley through Sherpa settlements and into the Khumbu. Build in rest days as you gain height; the route is a substantial trek even before the final approach to Base Camp.

Climb Kala Patthar

Kala Patthar is a high viewpoint above Gorak Shep, with a close view toward Everest and the Khumbu Glacier. Most trekkers reach it as a side trip from the Everest Base Camp route. The early start is cold, and altitude makes the short-looking climb slow.

Climb Gokyo Ri

The climb above Gokyo village looks across the chain of lakes and toward the Ngozumpa Glacier. It is a steep, high-altitude outing, best attempted after time to adjust to the Khumbu.

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Village paths and stone steps lead through forest into a high basin surrounded by the Annapurna range. The changing terrain makes this a varied multi-day walk; leave room for weather and a steady ascent.

Hike the Mardi Himal ridge to Base Camp

The Mardi Himal route climbs from forest to an exposed ridge beneath Machhapuchhre. It is shorter than many Nepal treks, though the upper camps still sit high enough to make a gradual itinerary important.

Climb to the Tilicho Lake viewpoint

The route to the viewpoint above Tilicho Lake branches from the Annapurna Circuit. The high approach crosses open mountain terrain, where wind, snow and altitude can set the pace.

Cross Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit

Thorong La is the high point of the Annapurna Circuit, connecting the Manang side with the descent toward Muktinath. Treat the pass as a full mountain day and follow local advice if snow or wind moves in.

Climb Kyanjin Ri

From Kyanjin Gompa, a steep trail reaches a viewpoint over Langtang’s high valley. It makes a strong day hike after acclimatization in the valley, with a quick change in weather possible above the village.

Trek to Gosaikunda

The trail climbs from the hills north of Kathmandu to a group of high lakes revered by Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. The ascent is sustained, and the route’s elevation calls for a measured pace.

Hike to Murma Top above Rara Lake

Murma Top gives a high view across Rara Lake in western Nepal. Reaching the region takes planning of its own, so build extra days around transport and avoid a tight onward connection.

Cross Larkya La on the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit passes villages and glacial valleys before climbing to Larkya La. It is a remote, high route. Arrange the restricted-area permits and guide through a registered trekking agency before setting out.

Trek to Pang Pema beneath Kanchenjunga

Pang Pema sits below the north face of Kanchenjunga, at the end of a long approach through eastern Nepal. This is a trip for hikers with time for remote travel and a careful acclimatization plan.

Hike to Sarangkot before sunrise

The climb from Pokhara to Sarangkot is a manageable hill walk with a popular dawn viewpoint. Start with a headlamp, check the weather and allow time to descend after the light reaches the valley.

Climb Poon Hill before sunrise

From Ghorepani, a steep staircase climbs to Poon Hill for a broad view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The early start is easier after a night nearby; bring warm layers and a headlamp.

Trek to the outlet of Tsho Rolpa

The trail reaches Tsho Rolpa, a glacial lake in the Rolwaling valley. Its remote setting means fewer convenient stops than on popular routes; plan food, lodging and transport before leaving the main road.

Trek to Makalu Base Camp

The route to Makalu Base Camp enters a quieter eastern Himalayan region beneath the world’s fifth-highest mountain. It takes time to reach and rewards a flexible schedule, since weather and trail conditions can interrupt plans.

Climb Tserko Ri

Tserko Ri rises above the Langtang valley and makes a demanding high-altitude day from the trekking route. Spend time adjusting to the elevation first, and turn back if conditions or symptoms make the descent uncertain.

Trek to the Khopra Danda ridge

Khopra Danda is a ridge route in the Annapurna region, reached by a quieter trail than the main circuit. Ask locally about current lodging and trail conditions before committing to the route.

Planning a Nepal hike

High routes need time to acclimatize and a buffer for weather. Use a registered agency to confirm permits and guide rules, especially for restricted areas. For current entry fees and trekking requirements, check the Nepal Tourism Board’s trekking information and TIMS guidance.