Best Trekking Places in Nepal: My Personal Experience with Additional Trekking Tips
categories: asia travel
Renjo La Pass
Are you an avid hiker who loves discovering new trekking areas? If you are, then I have some exciting news for you. Today, I will share some of the best trekking areas in Nepal that will spark your interest. But before going ahead with the blog, let me give you a brief introduction to the country of Nepal.
Nepal is a country situated in South Asia, surrounded by the gigantic great Himalayas.
The country is blessed with exceptionally stretched valleys, stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and temples. It is also an embodiment of Hinduism and Buddhism. As astonishing as it sounds, Nepal has an abundance to offer. It is a country widely popular for being home to the world’s highest mountains. Aside from those white giants, this country has many hidden treasures that need to be discovered, including trekking routes.
Each trekking area has a unique touch that’ll inspire and keep you astonished.
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Everest Base Camp Trek
It was in 2018 when I set off on the Everest Base Camp Trek with my friend from America. Everest Base Camp was a big deal, and I was thrilled.
The Everest Base Camp trek became popular after the summit of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. Continuing the legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, many brave hearts have conquered this mighty peak and have popularized this trek.
Me and my friend Bethany
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a wonder in itself. It is the most popular trek among all the other trekking areas. The standard trek typically takes around 12-14 days and covers a distance of approximately 130km. The stunning landscapes and close-up view of the mountain ranges are something to look forward to.
As I hopped on the plane from Kathmandu to Lukla, I was scared out of my wits. Why? Because the plane was landing at one of the deadliest airports in the world – the Tenzing Hillary Airport at Lukla. I don’t want to scare anyone, but the plane ride, with frequent turbulence, was scary. Once we reached Lukla, we started our journey to Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep, and then to the Everest Base Camp.
Thinking about the Everest Base Camp takes me back to the days when I crossed those high suspension bridges and the steep uphill while on the way to Lobuche. It took me hours to reach just the top. Nevertheless, on the day of reaching the base camp, I walked through rocky terrains and saw glaciers for the first time. The camp was on the top, so as I walked, I could see many tents full of people from around the world.
It was indeed an accomplishment. In the morning, I woke up with ice on my beanie. I shooked it off and opened the tent. And I was stunned to see the glorious sunrise slowly rising from the mountains. I recall that day even today as it was picture-perfect, and the moment was magical.
Words aren’t enough to describe the beauty of the trek; hence you need to be there.
Don’t Miss Out on:
- Visit Tengboche Monastery at Tengboche.
- Grab a bite at Sherpa Barista Bakery.
- Japanese cuisine at Tomo Dachi.
Annapurna Base Camp
Sweet 16 is about parties and celebrations, isn’t it? My sweet 16 was all about trekking in Nepal. In 2016 I joined a group trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. They were a group of 16 members all the way from Quebec. I was happy to be a part of this fantastic journey.
The ABC trek is memorable in my heart because it was my first time seeing snow. My favorite moment from this trek was on the day when we reached Jhinu Dhanda. Jhinu Dhanda is a small village where you’ll also find a hot spring. After many days of walking, taking a dip in the hot spring was a sweet reward.
Muldhai View Point 3637m
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is yet another marvel. After the Everest Base Camp Trek, this trek holds the title of the second most popular trek in Nepal. I recommend the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for young adults looking for an easy trek to complete with their friends.
The trek is the most interesting, full of fun activities. While on the trek, you can visit the Gurung museum in Ghandruk, join in for a dip in the hot spring, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare ranges from the poon hill viewpoint.
Don’t Miss Out On:
- Jhinu Danda Hot Spring
Mera Peak Trek
2022 was all about conquering high peaks and unlocking new heights. In 2022, I was off to a completely different region, the Makalu region of Nepal. It was my first camping trek, and they are the best!
Mera High Camp 5800m
The Mera Peak Trek is a challenging trek where the ultimate destination is the summit of Mera Peak ( 6476m). This peak is considered the highest trekking peak, meaning it is a non-technical climb.
There are many alternative ways to start the Mera Peak Trek. You can either start from Phaplu or Lukla. The route beginning from Lukla is the best option, as it is easier than that from Phaplu. We started the trek from Lukla, Chetra La, Kothe, Khare, and then to Mera High Camp, situated at 5800m. I hiked to Mera High Camp but didn’t attempt the Mera Peak summit. You’ll find everyone saying that Mera Peak Trek is easy, but it is not. The altitude is a severe issue in this region and can be fatal. Therefore, you must maintain a good physical fitness level for the Mera Peak Trek.
The Mera Peak Trek is the best trek that I’ve ever done. I have created beautiful memories in the Makalu region and met someone who is the most important person in my life. Life is truly a fantastic journey; you never know what it has for you.
Don’t Miss Out On:
- Coffee at Hotel Mountain View Khare
- Thongba ( Sherpa Drink) at Kothe
Everest High Pass Trek
After returning from the Mera Peak Trek, I took a day’s rest, packed my bags, and set off to the Everest High Pass Trek. My legs were sore, and my face all sunburnt, but I was determined and clung to this big opportunity.
In November, I embarked on the Everest High Pass Trek with two women, a Brazilian and a French woman. The Everest High Pass Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging treks. On this trip, you cross three high passes, all above 5000m, Cho La Pass( 5335m), Renjo La Pass ( 5420m), and Kongma La Pass ( 5540m).
I faced the most challenging time while I was crossing the Cho La Pass. We started the hike from Thagnag at around 5 am. I packed my bags with half-closed eyelids and ate the bread and jam. Then, off we went. When I reached the foothills of the pass, all I could see was the top of the pass and one person standing there wearing a red down jacket. The red dot on the top of the hill made me question my ability. How am I going to get there? Neither could I return nor stay there because both options meant I would suffer. So I grabbed my backpack and walked.
The most exciting highlights of this trek were visiting the Buddhist monastery at Thamo, passing the three passes, and just walking around Gokyo Lake.
I loved spending my time in Gokyo. It was surreal near the lake. We could see the crystal clear waters and the stunning reflection of the mountains.
Don’t Miss Out On:
- Visiting Thamo Monastery
- Hike to Gokyo
Quick Tips While Trekking In Nepal
As an enthusiastic trekker, I have faced quite harsh situations and have taken them as lessons for the future. If you are trekking in Nepal, there are some things or quick tips that I want to share. These tips can come in handy when you are either trekking or just visiting Nepal.
Find a trekking agency or a private guide
Recently, the tourism board of Nepal has issued a new law prohibiting foreign travelers from trekking alone in Nepal. If you want to trek in any area of Nepal, you must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide.
So, you need to find good and trustworthy trekking agencies in Nepal or even hire a private guide while trekking in this country. I must say that I have trekked with Nepal Hiking Team multiple times, and they provide excellent services. If you want to choose this agency, you can contact them right away.
Trek only in the best season
To experience the best of Nepal, you must choose only the best seasons to trek. As a local, we consider the Spring and Autumn season the best times for trekking.
Plan in advance
It is best to book the trip in advance. This can help you save time and money and ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Pack the Essentials
While trekking in the Himalayan region, you must carry the correct clothing, trekking gear, electronic products, toiletries, first-aid kit, purification tablets, and accessories.
Don’t Drink Tap Water
Tap water is non-drinkable in Nepal. Hence, it is best to stick to bottled water to avoid stomachaches and other diseases or carry water purification tablets with you.
Carry Nepalese Rupees
ATMs are only accessible in the city. Hence, it would be best to carry cash while trekking in Nepal.
Pro Tip: Exchange foreign currencies in Kathmandu. The best area is Thamel.
Beware of the Altitude
Altitude sickness is a severe issue. In areas above 3000m, there is a high chance of altitude sickness.
Carry tablets and plan itineraries with many acclimatization days. If you want your body to acclimate at that level of altitude, you must walk gradually.
Try out Nepalese cuisines
Skip the continental dishes in the guesthouses, and try some Nepalese cuisines. My favorites are Rikikur (potato pancakes), Rildok, Thongba, and Dal Bhat Thali.
(Rice, Lentils, Vegetables/Meat, and Tibetan Bread).
Dal Bhaat Chicken Thali at Lukla
Accommodations
While you are trekking in Nepal, you’ll be staying at teahouses. Teahouse trekking means you’ll be lodging at small guesthouses owned by the local villagers.
The guesthouses in the Everest and Annapurna regions are maintained well and have many facilities like lodging, food services, Wi-Fi, and also hot showers. Below is a guesthouse in Taksindhu, a small village in the Solukhumbu region. The owner was super friendly and served delicious meals.
Guesthouse at Taksindhu
To talk about rooms in towns like Namche Bazaar, Gokyo, Lukla, and Khare, there are standard rooms where you can also find en suite bathrooms.
In other guesthouses, you’ll only find rooms with a common bathroom. The bathrooms are western-style or Indian squat-style toilets. Below is a picture of a single room in Nirvana Home, Namche Bazaar. The rooms were clean, and the food service was excellent.
Nirvana Home, Namche Bazaar
Conclusion
So these were the best trekking areas in Nepal that I’ve completed. Aside from these, there are many other trips like the Langtang Valley Trek, Mustang Trek, Manaslu Trek, and many more. These treks are on my bucket list and should be on yours too!
Trekking in Nepal is impressive. If you are looking for vacation spots, consider visiting Nepal. The Nepalese will welcome you with open hands and make your trip memorable.
If you visit Nepal, you can always contact me for assistance.
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Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal – Episode 492
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Travel to Nepal – Episode 861
