Nepal has some of the world’s most fantastic trekking routes. There are thousands of trekkers visit Nepal every year to live their dream adventure on the Himalayan trekking trails. Among all, the most popular and visited trek is the classic Everest base camp leading trekkers to the base camp of Mount Everest.
Nepal is a land of breathtaking landscapes and majestic Himalayan peaks, with numerous hidden trails waiting to be explored. While it is up to you to choose where to trek, either the developed trails of the well-known regions like Everest and Annapurna or the off-beaten paths. Both options offer an equal amount of beauty when it comes to nature and culture. The special thing about the less-known trail is that it offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the pure beauty of Nepal’s nature and culture.
Exploring the hidden gems of Nepal’s trekking trails of Nepal takes you to remote and secluded areas, where you can escape the crowds and truly connect with the natural wilderness. These trails lead you through diverse landscapes, from dense forests and waterfalls to high alpine meadows and glacial valleys. Along the way, you will discover captivating classic villages, where locals greet you with warm hospitality and offer glances into their distinctive way of life.
While trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal, one can discover many bird species, offering excellent opportunities for remark. Danphe, a National bird of Nepal, is one of the unique to explore. This magnificent bird prefers the high-altitude forests and meadows, making it a true symbol of the region’s natural beauty.
While embarking on the trek to the hidden trails, every step will surprise you with a new discovery from the breathtaking scenery to the remoteness of life and the distinct culture. The hidden trails may require a bit more effort and endurance, but the rewards it gives are immeasurable.
Less-known trekking trails of Nepal
There are several less-known trekking trails in Nepal which has yet not been explored by many. If you wish to trek to the off-beaten path then here we have made a list of five hidden gems of Nepal.
Pikey Peak and Dudhkunda Lake trekking trail
Quick Facts:
- Location: Solukhumbu region, eastern Nepal
- Trek Duration: 10-12 days
- Maximum Altitude: Dudhkunda Lake (4,592 meters)
- Best Time to Trek: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
The Pikey Peak trek with Dudhkunda Lake traisl is a hidden gem in the lower Everest region of Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek takes you to one of the best vantage points, Pikey Peak, and the sacred lake of Dudhkund. Offering a blend of natural beauty, and cultural encounters, the trail takes you through dense forests, terraced fields, and scenic Sherpa villages, presenting a glimpse into the traditional Himalayan way of life.
The major highlights of the trek include reaching the summit of Pikey Peak, which offers stunning sunrise and sunset views of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, etc. And visiting the sacred Dudhkunda Lake, which is believed to grant wishes to those who take a dip in its crystal-clear waters.
Khopra Danda and Khayer Lake trekking trail
Quick Facts:
- Location: Annapurna region, central Nepal
- Trek Duration: 10-12 days
- Maximum Altitude: Khopra Danda (4,665 meters)
- Best Time to Trek: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
The Khopra Danda and Khayer Lake trekking trail is another hidden gem that is situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trail offers a unique and less crowded alternative to the popular Annapurna Base Camp trek and other trekking trails of the region. Taking you through lush rhododendron forests, alluring Gurung villages, and terraced farmlands, you will first reach Khopra Danda which is a stunning viewpoint offering scenic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
After that, you will head to another attraction which is the pristine Khayer Lake. It is a sacred lake tucked amidst the snowy peaks, where you can experience serenity and tranquility.
Ama Dablam base camp trekking trail
Quick Facts:
- Location: Everest region, northeastern Nepal
- Trek Duration: 12-14 days
- Maximum Altitude: Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,570 meters)
- Best Time to Trek: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
The Ama Dablam Base Camp trekking trail is a challenging and rewarding trek in the famous Everest region of Nepa. The trek takes you to the base camp of one of Nepal’s most iconic mountains, Mount Ama Dablam. The trail offers you spectacular views of several mountains like Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, along with the majestic Ama Dablam peak.
As you trek through rhododendron forests, Sherpa villages, and high-altitude landscapes, you will get to experience Sherpa culture and hospitality. The Ama Dablam Base Camp is a great option if you want to avoid the crowded Everest Base Camp trail.
Manaslu Circuit and Tsum valley trekking trail
Quick Facts:
- Location: Gorkha district, central Nepal
- Trek Duration: 18-20 days
- Maximum Altitude: Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters)
- Best Time to Trek: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trekking trail is one of the most challenging trails in Nepal that takes you on an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Leading you to the remote and culturally rich regions of Manaslu and Tsum, the trek offers a blend of natural beauty, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and stunning mountain vistas.
The main highlights of the trek include crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass, exploring the hidden Tsum Valley with its antique monasteries, and experiencing the remote wilderness of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Shey Phoksundo Lake and Dolpo trekking trail
Quick Facts:
- Location: Dolpo region, northwestern Nepal
- Trek Duration: 18-22 days
- Maximum Altitude: Kang La Pass (5,360 meters)
- Best Time to Trek: Summer (June to September) and Autumn (September to November)
The Shey Phoksundo Lake and Dolpo trekking trail is an incredible journey that takes you to the remote and mystical landscapes of Dolpo, including the mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo Lake.
The highlight of the trek is reaching Shey Phoksundo Lake, a fresh turquoise lake surrounded by barren cliffs and snow-capped peaks, offering a tranquil atmosphere. The trek also takes you through the magical landscapes of Upper Dolpo, where you can explore antique monasteries, and get Himalayan wildlife, experience.
