13 Best Short Treks in Nepal

We do have lots of short treks in Nepal as well, where you can feel the Himalayas in a very short period.  People with families and business holders can’t afford long holidays and it’s also not possible for them. Even if you can’t plan for longer treks in Nepal, here are the 13 best short treks in Nepal. We have designed these 13 best short treks after 13 years long Himalayan guiding experience in Nepal. Please have a look! One of them would definitely be suitable for your short holiday in Nepal.

Short Everest Base Camp Trek

With a limited holiday duration, and a bucket list item waiting to be checked off, our Short Everest Base Camp Trek package is a perfect choice. We take the same path as normal Everest Base Camp trekkers, but with a little more pep in our step. Also, acclimatization days are not built into our itinerary, though we will take them as needed. Become awestruck by the rapidly changing scenery, as it changes from the lush forests around the Dudh Koshi River to the barren, yet heavenly landscape surrounding the Khumbu Glacier.

Trek Highlights:

• Amazing view of the Top of World, Mt. Everest
• Everest Base Camp
• Sunset view of Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar
• Beautiful Sherpa Settlements
• Sherpa Culture and their lifestyle
• Namche Bazar
• Khumbu Valley
• Tengboche Monastery

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 10 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Lodges and Guesthouses
• Maximum Elevation: 5540 meters (18,175 feet)
• Starting Point: Flight to Lukla, 30 min.
• Ending Point: Flight to Kathmandu from Lukla, 30 min.
• Best season: March-May and September-December
• Accessibility in Winter (Dec-Feb): Would be cold but it is possible to go in December/ January. These two months offer clearer weather, blue sky and an awesome view of the Himalayas.
• Accessibility in Monsoon (June-August): The flight to Lukla is not available due to the bad weather. But it is possible to take a jeep to Phaplu and go for the trek.

Everest Panorama Trek

If you can’t devote time for the Everest Base Camp Trek, this majestic Everest Panaroma Trek, a jaunt into the Khumbu region is the next big thing. After a quick flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, traverse the high suspension bridges up to Namche Bazaar, a lively village with stellar mountain views. There is one day built into the itinerary to check out Namche market and to explore Khumjung, a peaceful village with an overlooking monastery that houses what is alleged to be a Yeti scalp! Trek back down, enjoying the steep canyon of the Dudh Koshi River and its rickety suspension bridges once more.

Trek Highlights:

• Awesome view of Mt. Everest from Namche
• Namche Bazaar
• Sherpa culture and their lifestyle
• Highest suspension bridge of Khumbu region
• Phakding and Monjo village with Agriculture fields
• Yaks

Trek Facts:

• Trek Duration: 08 days.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• Maximum Elevation: 3790 meters (12,434 feet).
• Best Season: March-May and September- January.
• Accessible in Winter: Winter would not affect the short trek to Namche Bazar.
• Accessible in Monsoon: No, because of the flights to and from Lukla and Kathmandu. But it is possible to drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu and continue the trek to Namche Bazar.
• Accommodation Type: Lodges/ Guest House.
• Starting point: Kathmandu, flight to Lukla, 30 min.
• Ending Point: Lukla, flight to Kathmandu, 30 min.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Within roughly a week, it is possible to make it to the base of the 10th highest peak in the world – Annapurna I (8090 meters/ 26,545 feet). Hike up along the Modi Khola canyon and through rhododendron and bamboo forests, which are teeming with wildlife. Climbing higher, the ominous peak of Machapuchare greets you. As you trek to Annapurna Base Camp, find yourself enclosed by a fortress of jagged peaks. To ease the aches from the grueling climb and descent, take a dip in the healing hot springs at Tadapani before ending the trek. 

Trek Highlights:

• Gurung Settlements and their culture
• Amazing 360’ view from Annapurna Base Camp
• Machhapuchre Base Camp
• Annapurna Base Camp
• Natural Hot Spring at Jhinu Danda.

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 08 days.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Maximum Elevation: 4130 meters (13,550 feet).
• Best Season: March-May and September - January.
• Accessible in Winter: Possible until January.
• Accessible in Monsoon: Yes. But the trail would be a bit muddy and weather would be partly cloudy and rainy.
• Accommodation Type: Lodges/ Guest House.
• Starting Point: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, 1 hour.
• Ending Point: Drive from Nayapul to Pokhara, 1 hour.

Short Langtang Valley Trek

The most accessible of the treks, the Short Langtang Valley Trek, starts with a scenic 6-hour drive from Kathmandu and takes no longer than a week to complete. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Langtang Valley, which has long been considered a sacred valley due to its spectacular natural wonders. If the stunning Langtang range views are not enough, the warm hospitality of the local Tamang ethnic group and their culture are sure to fascinate you. Also, in the forests of Langtang National Park, there is a rich biodiversity. You may even cross paths with the elusive Red Panda!

Trek Highlights:

• Langtang Valley
• Kyanjing Gumba Village
• Kyanjing Ri
• Tamang culture and their lifestyle
• Langtang Himalayan Range

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 07 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 4985 meters (16,355 feet)
• Best Season: March-May and September- January.
• Accessible in Winter: Yes, This trek would be possible to do in winter but it would be a bit colder.
• Accessible in Monsoon: No, because after the Earthquake in 2015 all the rocks have been moved and during the monsoon, the rocks might fall down while trekkers walking on the trail. Also, the Langtang River would be bigger and the trail might be destroyed by it.
• Accommodation Type: Lodges/ Guest House.
• Starting Point: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, 6 hours.
• Ending Point: Drive from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu, 6 hours.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is almost always mentioned when the topic of the world’s best trekking trails is brought up. The full version lasts almost three weeks, however, our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek package take a mere 11 days without missing the best parts. Climbing through the desolate, yet captivating scenery to Thorong La Pass (5416 meters/ 17,769 feet) is a true thrill. After the pass, the trail descends to Muktinath Temple, a famous pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Buddhists alike. Here, devotees bathe in the 108 fountains, ring bells, and show respect to their gods.  For people with a history of trekking or a passion for adventure, the Short Annapurna Circuitis the go-to choice. 

Trek Highlights:

• Upper Pisang Village and Monastery
• Manang Village
• The sunrise on Annapurna II and IV from Upper Pisang
• The Manang Valley view from Nawal
• Thorang La Pass (5416m)
• Upper Mustang view
• Muktinath Temple

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 10 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Maximum Elevation: 5416 meters (17,769 feet)
• Best Seasons: March-May and September-January
• Accessible in Monsoon: Not recommended. The trail would be very muddy and walking in the rain every day is not enjoyable.
• Accessible in Winter: No, Thorang La pass (5416 m) would be blocked by the heavy snow.
• Accommodation Type: Guesthouses/Lodges.
• Starting Point: Drive from Kathmandu to Chame, 10 hours.
• Ending Point: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara, 9 hours.

Short Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trek

The Short Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trekoffers a lifetime experience for the nature lovers. Gokyo valley is a less crowded trek in the Everest region through more natural and beautiful compared to the Everest Base Camp trek. This trek starts with a short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and continues the same trail of Everest Base camp until Kyanjuma village.

Then, the beautiful and peaceful Gokyo valley welcomes with an amazing view of the Himalayas. The Gokyo Lakes are amazing. Every single person falls in love with the Gokyo lakes behind the beautiful Himalayan view. Hiking up to the Gokyo Ri is another most beautiful part of the Gokyo Trek. The beautiful view of Village with the green, pristine blue waters of Gokyo Lakes and the white Himalayan range fills your heart with joy.

This Short Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes trek are for those who have a very short vacation in Nepal but still want to do this trek. This trek requires a good level of fitness and altitude experience. This is such an amazing trek so even if you are in the normal shape, add some more days and do it at least once in your life!

Trek Highlights:

• Mt. Everest
• Gokyo Lakes
• The Panoramic view from Gokyo Ri
• Sherpa culture and their lifestyle
• Lukla Airport
• Crossing the Highest suspension Bridge of Khumbu Region
• Namche Bazaar
• Gokyo Village

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 08 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Maximum Elevation: 5483 m (17,989 feet)
• Best Seasons: March-May and September- January
• Accessible in Monsoon: No, the flight to and from Lukla is not sure due to the bad weather. But, if you add more days and drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu, it’s possible.
• Accessible in Winter: Would be a bit cold; it is possible until January.
• Accommodation Type: Guest House/ Lodges.
• Starting Point: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu, 30 min.
• Ending Point: Fly to Kathmandu from Lukla, 30min.

Short Mardi Himal Trek

Short Mardi Himal Trek is a minimized trek for those who have a very short time to spend in Nepal and still want to feel the Himalayas. Within 3 days, this trek takes us from Pokhara to the lap of the Annapurna Himalaya range. Mardi Himal trek lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area which offers us the best view of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchre, Mardi Himal, and many more. The highest altitude of this trek is 4700 m, so this trek doesn't require a very good mountain experience for the trekkers.

The short Mardi Himal trek starts with a short drive to Kande and takes the trek into nature. The beautiful Rhododendron forest and a gorgeous view of Annapurna range is the unforgettable part of this trek.  This trekking trail is on the ridge so we can have a gorgeous view of Annapurna Himalayan Range and the Pokhara valley at the same time. The sunrise and sunset view from the Badal Dada would be a lifetime of experience for all the trekkers from the world.

Trek Highlights:

• Sunset on the Annapurna South from Badal Dada
• Sunrise view from the viewpoint
• Mardi Himal Base Camp
• Gurung culture and their lifestyle
• Delicious Dal Bhat
• Rhododendron Forest

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 5 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 4500m (14764 feet)
• Best Season: March-July and September-January
• Accessible in Monsoon: Yes, it would be a bit muddy but the trail is safe for Monsoon.
• Accessible in Winter: No, it is dangerous to walk on the ridge on the snow.
• Accommodation Type: Lodges/ Guest Houses.
• Starting Point: Drive from Pokhara to Kande, 45 min.
• Ending Point: Drive from Siding Village, 2-3 hours.

Short Nar Phu Valley Trek

Short Nar Phu Valley Trek takes us into the lost valley Nar and Phu in the Annapurna region. The two sacred villages Nar and Phu have a very ancient and untouched pure natural culture. The old houses and their lifestyle takes us back to the 5th century. The pure happy people from these two villages are seldom seen on other treks. This trek follows the ancient Annapurna circuit trail until Koto and from this point, we follow Nar Khola.

This trek in the Annapurna region is very peaceful and beautiful. Phu village is located on the lap of the Himalayas from where we can see an amazing view of Himlung Himal, Pokhar Kang and the old monastery on the other hill. Nar Village is a beautiful ancient village with big farmland below the village. The farmland looks very colorful in September with buckwheat flowers. Kang La Pass offers surprise views of Annapurna II and IV, Pisang Peak, Chulu East, and many more.

I am 1000% sure that, 8 days Nar Phu valley trek will give an awesome experience to all trekkers from the world. If you have a long vacation you could do the normal Nar Phu valley trek (by spending extra days in Phu and Nar villages).

Trek Highlights:

• Lost Nar Phu Valley
• Ancient Phu and Nar Villages
• Old Monastery at Phu village
• Night stay at Gumba with Monks and Lama. (Nar Phedi)
• Kang La Pass (5320m)
• Annapurna Region view from Kangla Pass
• Very pure local culture
• Happy people from Nar and Phu Village

Trip Facts:

• Trek duration: 8 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 5320 m
• Best Season: September-January and March-June.
• Accessible in Winter: No, Kangla pass is not possible to cross while there is heavy snow.
• Accessible in Monsoon: No, the river would be flooded and landslide might occur on the trail (Koto to Meta)
• Accommodation Type: Very Basic teahouses.
• Food: The menu has different choices for food, but they cook by using local vegetables and herbs which give you unique local taste.
• Starting Point: Drive to Koto from Kathmandu. (9 hours)
• Ending Point: Drive from Ngawal to Besishar/ Kathmandu. 6 hours/ 5 hours.

Khopra Dada Trek

Khopra Dada trek is the best option for all trekkers who are looking for a short trek with the best view of the high Himalayas in a short time. This trek is connected with Ghorepani Ghandruk route. This trek offers an amazing sunrise and sunset view of the Annapurna South and Machhapuchre Himal. Khopra Dada trek is also known as Khayer Lake Trek. The trail leads us with the beautiful views of the Himalaya and the little villages.

This trek route goes mostly through the forest which gives us an experience of the high Himalayan forest walk with an awesome Annapurna Himalayan range. In March-April, all the forests would be very colorful with the different verities of Rhododendron flowers. The combination of the colorful forest and the white Annapurna Himalayan range would look unreal.

This trek starts from Ulleri and ends at Ghandruk. This trek includes the 3 very popular places, Ghorepani. Poonhil, and Ghandruk Village. We can have a very beautiful sunrise view from Poonhill and visit one of the biggest Gurung Cultural Village “Ghandruk Village”.

Trek Highlights:

• Sunrise from Poonhill
• Ghorepani Village
• Khayer Lake
• Sunset from Khopra Dada and Dobato.
• Khayer Lake
• Ghandruk Village
• Rhododendron Forest

Trip Facts:

• Trek duration: 8 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 4600m (15092 feet)
• Best Seasons: March-May and September-January.
• Accessible in Winter: Yes, there is not any high passes on this trek. It is possible to do with Crampons and stick in winter.
• Accessible in Monsoon: No, it would be rainy and the weather would be cloudy, hard to see the mountains.
• Accommodation Type: Guest houses/ Lodges.
• Starting Point: Drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, 3 hours.
• Ending Point: Drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara, 3 hours.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Ghorepani Poon hill trek is being very popular among beginners and retired trekkers. This very short trek offers an awesome Himalayan experience to all trekkers from the world. This 4 days Ghorepani trek starts from Pokhara with 3 hours jeep riding to the Ulleri village and we start to trek from there.

We walk through the rhododendron forest. The spring season is very popular for flower lovers. The different varieties of Rhododendron flowers make the forest very colorful. Ghorepani Poonhill trek is suitable for the families who want to experience the Himalaya with their kids.

Also, their kids will see, feel and experience the basic Nepali lifestyle which will make them happier compared to their life back home. The altitude is not very high so the family could carry their kids with them along the way. The little village and their lifestyle are the highlights of this trek.

Trek Highlights:

• Early Morning Sunrise view from Poon Hill
• Ghorepani Village
• Beautiful and old Gurung Village “Ghandruk Village”
• Amazing view of Annapurna Himalayan Range
• Gurung Culture and their lifestyle
• Walking into the Rhododendron Forest

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 4 days
• Difficulty: Easy.
• Maximum Elevation: 3210m (10532 feet).
• Best Seasons: March- July, and September-January.
• Accessible in Winter: Yes, it is possible with crampons and sticks.
• Accessible in Monsoon: Yes, but the weather would be a bit cloudy and muddy trail.
• Accommodation Type: Lodge/ Guest House.
• Starting Point: Drive to Ulleri from Pokhara, 3 hours.
• Ending Point: Drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara, 3 hours.

Mohore Dada Trek

Mohore Dada would be the best for those who are looking for a short, peaceful and cultural trek. This short and beautiful trek starts from Beni and ends at Nayapul. This Trek leads to the Annapurna Region just nearby the Poonhill but this hill offers a wider Himalayan range. Mohare Danda  trek offers an awesome sunrise view of Annapurna HImalayas. The Sunrise on Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range is the most beautiful part of this trek. Walking through the little village by observing their lifestyle is the best part of this trek.

We spend Couples of the nights at the local homestay. Staying with local people and experiencing their local lifestyle is a great part of this trek. Mohore Dada is located at the top of the Ulleri Village and the Beni city. A short trek to Mohore Dada will refresh every person and gives very good vibes from the local people and the Himalaya.

Trek Highlights:

• Local Villages and their lifestyle
• Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range.
• Sunrise view from Mohore Dada.
• Gurung and Cheetris Culture.
• Panoramic view from Mohore Dada.

Trek Facts:

• Trek duration: 5 days.
• Maximum Elevation: 3300m (10827 feet).
• Best Seasons: March-June, and September-January.
• Accessible in Winter: Yes, it is possible with crampons and trekking pole, because of being low elevation trek.
• Accessible in Monsoon: Yes, but it would be a bit muddy trail and partly cloudy.
• Accommodation Type: Homestay/ Lodges/ Guesthouses.
• Starting Point: Drive from Pokhara to Beni, 3-4 hours.
• Ending Point: Drive from Ulleri to Pokhara, 3 hours

Pikey Peak Trek

Pikey Peak Trek is a short trek in the Everest region which offers an amazing view of the top of the world Mt. Everest without flying to Lukla from Kathmandu. This trek is very popular for the people who love the local culture and their lifestyle. Pikey Peak Trek offers an awesome Khumbu Himalayan range.

This trek is for all ages and also very good for the beginners and retired trekkers from around the world. We can experience the local lifestyle and local food on this trek. Also, the monastery is very beautiful. This trek could be done with the little kids who want to see Mt. Everest without taking high altitude risk.

Trek Highlights:

• Mt. Everest view
• Sherpa and Tamang culture with their lifestyle
• Panoramic view from Pikey Peak
• Old Monastery
• Local villages with agriculture fields
• Local fresh food prepared by local people

Trip Facts:

• Trek duration: 7 days.
• Maximum Elevation: 4070m (13353 feet)
• Best Seasons: March-May and September-January
• Accessible in Monsoon: No, the road to Bhandar and the trail will be muddy. Also, the weather is mostly cloudy and rainy.
• Accessible in Winter: Yes, it is not a high elevation trek. There won't be snow and won’t be so cold.
• Accommodation Type: Lodges/ Guesthouses.
• Starting Point: Drive from Kathmandu to Bhandara, 7 hours.
• Ending Point: Drive from Phaplu to Kathmandu, 8 hours.

Gosainkunda Lake Trek

Gosainkunda Lake Trek is situated northeast of Kathmandu in the Langtang National Park. The beautiful Gosainkunda Lake is located at 4230 m from the sea level. There are 108 different Lakes in the region! Among them, we can see Bhairab Kunda, Saraswati Kunda, Surya Kunda, and Gosainkunda. Gosainkunda is the largest and beautiful lake among 108 lakes. The Gosainkunda viewpoint offers an amazing view of the Langtang valley and Gosainkunda Lake.

Gosainkunda Lake is a very popular holy lake in Hinduism and Buddhism religion. In every August there is a very big festival for the Hindus and Buddhists. Lots of people from all over Nepal go there to celebrate “Janai Purnima” festival. This Lake is very popular because the story is connected with our Lord Shiva. The Old generation still tells a fairy to the kids about the lake and Lord Shiva.

Once upon the time, Lord Shiva was running to the Himalaya with really bad pain, then he dug a hole there with his trident, and got very cool water, and drank that water to relieve himself from the pain. After that time, the water started flowing from the spot and became a lake. The 5 days Gosainkunda Lake Trek would be an awesome experience of the Langtang Himalaya with beautiful Gosainkunda Lake.

Trek Highlights:

• Langtang Valley views
• Gosainkunda Lake
• Langtang Himalayan Range.
• Bhairab Kunda, Saraswoti Kunda, and Surya Kunda
• Annapurna Himalayan range view from Lauribina.

Trek Facts:

• Trek Duration: 5 Days
• Maximum Elevation: 4380m (14370 feet)
• Accessible in Winter: Possible until January before snowing in the Himalaya.
• Best Seasons: March-May and September-January
• Accessible in Monsoon: Yes, it is possible in the Monsoon. But the trail would be a bit muddy and weather would be partly cloudy.
• Accommodation Type: Guest House/ Lodges.
• Trekking Starting: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche. 6 Hours
• Trekking Ending Point: Drive from Dhunche to Kathmandu. 6 hours.

So, go for these short holiday options if you want to experience the Himalayas, but lack the required time. It’s a guarantee that you’ll have a great time in the journey, and you’ll definitely make a lot of memories. Have a great trip! Remember Breeze Adventure for reliable trekking arrangements for trekking in Nepal.