Top 10 Best Short treks to choose in Nepal for your lifetime experience

The combination of the awe-inspiring scenery of mighty mountains and people living in diverse cultures makes Nepal the top destination for trekking. Nepal, a small country in the Himalayas, offers numerous short trekking trails. The following list represents the top 10 best short treks in Nepal for your ultimate experience:

1. Khopra Ridge Trek

2. Mardi Himal Trek

3. Short Everest Trek

4. Annapurna Short Trek

5. Langtang Valley Short Trek

6. Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

7. Short Everest Base Camp Trek

8. Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

9. Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

10. The Royal Trek.

In fact, you don’t need to be short in time to try a short trek. People have misconceptions about short treks. Normally, trekking can take around two weeks or more to complete a single trail. However, short treks minimize the time, so you can explore other various trails in the same amount of time. 

Without wasting any time let’s get right into the top 10 short treks to choose in Nepal for a lifetime experience. 

1. Discover the Majestic Khopra Danda Trek- Unveiling the Hidden Gem of the Himalayas.

Max. Elevation: 3,660 meters

Accommodation: Tea Houses

Duration: 5-10 Days

Location: Annapurna Region

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trip Highlights.

• Magnificent view of Dhaulagiri range and Annapurna massif from Khopra Ridge.
• Walking through the ridge is different from other trekking routes.
• Off-beat trail - less crowd.
• Hiking to the holy Lake ‘Khayar Lake’.
• Mesmerizing sunrise and sunset over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range.
• Experience the typical culture of Magar and Gurung ethnicities.

Khopra Ridge Trek, also known as Khopra Danda Trek, is one of the best off-beat trails situated in the Annapurna region. The trail is basically a ridge that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Annapurna and South, Nilgiri, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, and many more which are not mentioned here. Let’s not forget the majestic view of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) which seems like you are just standing right in front of the mountain.

Another attraction of the Khopra Ridge trek is Khayar Lake which is a great destination for hiking. It is the holy lake where Hindu people visit on the occasion of Janai Purnima for blessing. Likewise, there is Barahi Temple where devotees sacrifice sheep too. On the way to the lake, you may encounter shepherds with a flock of sheep and cashmere goats.

Khopra Ridge Itinerary can be around 5-10 days. For your best experience, 10 days will be an excellent choice. The initial trail passes through the famous route of Ghorepani. Then, the path split up from the Tadapani. The path takes to the wilderness of the Annapurna Conservation Area. 

For more information about Khopra Ridge Trek just click on the link. 

2. Embark on a Serene Journey- Mardi Himal Trek - Unveiling the Splendor of the Himalayas

Max. Elevation: 4,200 meters

Accommodation: Tea Houses & Homestay

Duration: 5-10 Days

Location: Annapurna Region

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trip Highlights

• One of the finest and close-up views of Mt. Machapuchare (Fishtail).
• Walking through the rhododendron forest.
• Mardi Himal Viewpoint with a bird-eye view.
• Natural and cultural diversity.

The Mardi Himal trek is another gem of the Annapurna Sanctuary. This recently opened trekking route has won the hearts of many travelers. The close encounter with Mt. Machapuchare and the exotic trekking trails are the prime reason behind the success of this trekking route. If you are hunting for short treks in Nepal then make Mardi Himal Trek one of your targets.

The Mardi Himal trek was first introduced in 2012. It has multiple access to the trail but the path afterward Deurali follows a single route. The trail passes through the ancient rhododendron forest. If you travel around March and April, then you can lay eyes on beautiful forests covered with rhododendron flowers.

The view from the trail is spectacular. The more you get to the upper altitude the view gets more and more beautiful. The last destination of the trek is Mardi Himal Viewpoint from where the northern and western part is blessed with majestic mountains and the eastern and southern have a never-ending horizon. 

3. Short Everest Trek- A Brief but Breathtaking Himalayan Experience.

Max. Elevation: 3,880 meters

Accommodation: Hotels and lodges

Duration: 7 Days

Location: Everest Region

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trip Highlights

• Admire the highest peak in the world- Mount Everest.
• Finest accommodations and hospitality with Sherpa culture.
• Chance to visit Tengboche Monastery also known as Dawa Choling Gumba.
• Lukla - A gateway to Everest. 
• Namche Bazaar- a famous Sherpa town.
• A scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa.
• Sagarmatha National Park - UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you ever wanted to admire Mt. Everest, the highest peak in the world, with your own eye. But, you are short on time or do not want to go to a higher altitude. Don’t worry! We got your back. Short Everest Trek is specially designed for the short and relevant trek for you. 

The short Everest trek, usually known as Everest Panorama Trek, is an alternative choice to avoid altitude sickness and long lousy days. In this short trek, you can almost experience everything that the Everest region has to offer you. Still, the trek ends halfway through the Everest Base Camp, you can carry all those unerasable memories. 

As usual, the trip begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The following days also remain the same as the route follows Namche Bazaar ‘Sherpa Hub’. The trek ends in Tengboche where the largest monastery of Khumbu is located - ‘Tengboche Monastery’. 

From the start of the trek with a scenic flight, you will never miss incredible landscapes and panoramic views along with Sherpa culture. Undoubtedly, the Short Everest Trek is the best of the 10 best short treks to choose from in Nepal. 

4. Annapurna Short Trek- Embark on a Scenic Journey to the Himalayan Majesty

Max. Elevation: 3,210 meters

Accommodation: Tea Houses, Hotels, and lodges

Duration: 4-8 Days

Location: Annapurna Region

Difficulty: Easy. 

Trip Highlights

• Spectacular sunrise and sunset over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range from Poon Hill.
• Easy and Short trekking route with picturesque scenery.
• Chance to visit the famous Gurung village ‘Ghandruk’.
• Welcoming the hospitality of Magar and Gurung people. 

Talking about Annapurna Short Trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek ending through Ghandruk village has been dominating for ages. The trek introduces multiple Magar and Gurung villages living with their unique cultures and traditions. Likewise, no words can describe the beauty of landscapes throughout the route (especially, from Poon Hill).  Plus, with an easy trekking trail, it has been the number one choice of Backpackers. 

The Annapurna short trek starts with the bus or jeep drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Birethanti. Also, you can take a jeep ride all the way to Ulleri in case you want to skip the steep stone stairway. Then, the trail follows the lush forest of Rhododendron leading towards Ghorepani. Get ready for an early morning hike to Poon Hill to admire the classic view of the Annapurna Massif and Dhaulagiri range along with the sunrise. The name Poon Hill becomes Pun Magar ethnic group, who live in Ghorepani. 

Finally, the trek ends in Ghandruk village. No idea about Ghandruk village? It is a famous village situated in the Annapurna region mostly inhabited by indigenous Gurung people. The village is preserving its culture and tradition by adopting modern technology and innovation.

If you are a beginner, Annapurna Short Trek is the best choice, to begin with. Never hesitate to get connected with us. Know more about 

5. Langtang Valley Short Trek- Immersive Himalayan Experience in a Compact Journey.

Max. Elevation: 4,773 meters

Accommodation: Tea Houses, Homestays, and lodges

Duration: 5-9 Days

Location: Langtang Region

Difficulty: Easy. 

Trip Highlights.

• Scenic view from Kyanjin Ri/ Tserko Ri
• Experience the welcoming culture of the Tamang people.
• Ancient Tibetan culture is still in practice.
• Easy and less crowded trail.
• Langtang National Park. 

Langtang Valley Trek is a comparatively easy trek. The trail is different from any other trekking route. The trekking route falls inside Langtang National Park which results in diverse flora and fauna. In addition, Langtang offers unspoiled Tamang culture whereas the majority of residents are Tamang people. The ancient culture and tradition are still practiced by the Tamang people. Somehow, a trip to Langtang can share a glimpse of Tibetan culture too.

This short trek begins with a 6-7 hours long drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. Don't worry, the drive passes through multiple cities and villages along with beautiful scenery. The trek starts after Syafrubesi following some small settlements like Bamboo, Rimche, Lama Hotel, and many more. The valley gets wider after Ghodetabala and the view gets more rewarding. Meantime, the trail even gets easier. 

Afterward, the trail takes to the Langtang Valley. Due to the devastating earthquake in 2015, Langtang Valley was completely demolished by Landslide, leaving only one house. The valley now you see is newly constructed. En route, you will never miss the spectacular view of Langtang Lirung, Yala Peak, Langtang Ri, and many more. Likewise, you can encounter many manes (ancient graveyards), Gumbas, and Stupas on the way. 

The last destination of the trek is Kyajin Gompa which is also the central attraction of the trip. The village features a cheese factory that produces organic yak cheese. Moreover, the village offers a couple of hiking trails i.e. Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri. The hiking spot offers 360 panoramic views of the mighty mountains. 

6. Chisapani Nagarkot Trek: A Scenic Himalayan Journey to Remember.

Max. Elevation: 2,195 meters

Accommodation: Hotel and Lodge

Duration: 3-6 Days

Location: Kathmandu Valley

Difficulty: Easy. 

Trip Highlights

• Nearby trekking trail from Kathmandu Valley.
• Have one of the best views of the mountain range.
• Trekking inside Shivapuri National Park.
• Nagarkot- is one of the best tourist hubs.

Unquestionably, Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is the best trekking trail near Kathmandu. This trek is designed to accomplish a short and sweet trek around Kathmandu Valley. To be honest, the trail has one of the iconic skyline views of mountains. The trek can be extended for a couple of more days to Namo Buddha and Panauti. This trekking is perfect to escape the crowd of the valley and appreciate what nature has to offer.

The initial trek of Chisapani Nagarkot Trek begins inside Shivapuri National Park beginning from Sundarijal waterfalls on the way. Plus, the national park is renowned for bird watching. You may witness varieties of birds while ascending to Chisapani. The waterfall you pass by is not an ordinary waterfall; it is also Sundarijal Water Reservation. The water reservation covers the majority of the scarcity of water in the valley.

Let’s dive into trekking again; it can take 5-6 hours of walking to reach Chisapani from Sundarijal. Or, you can take a direct bus or jeep to reach Chisapani. As soon as you step into Chisapani, the view gets surreal. The place is framed with a classical view of the Manaslu Range, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Range, all the way to Mt. Everest too. 

The next destination after Chisapani is Nagarkot. Nagarkot is a famous hill town, recognized for its best of best Mountain View extending from Annapurna to Kanchenjunga (on a clear day). In addition, the town hosts the most beautiful sunrise reflecting a ray of the sun on the White Mountains. After Nagarkot, the trail descends towards Dhulikhel from where you take a ride to Kathmandu. As mentioned before there are other alternative ways to end this trek. Either you can extend to Namo Budhha or can end from Historical Hindu Temple Changu Narayan. 

If you have limited time and want to go trekking then, Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is simply the best option to choose.

7. Short Everest Base Camp Trek- A Compact Adventure to the Roof of the World.

Max. Elevation: 5,644 meters

Accommodation: Hotels and lodges

Duration: 10 Days

Location: Everest Region

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trip Highlights

• Kalapatthar and Everest Base Camp in fewer days.
• Visit the ancient Tengboche monastery.
• Lukla and Namche Bazaar- Famous towns in the Himalayas.
• UNESCO World Highest National Park- Sagarmatha National Park.
• Natural and cultural diversity. 

The short Everest Base Camp trek follows the same route as the classic EBC trek. The only difference is the trek is completed in short days. The trek takes you to the Sherpa town of the Himalayas, outstanding viewpoints, the highest monastery in the Khumbu region, the world’s highest National park, and many attractions of the place. Moreover, you can witness 4 of the top six highest mountains in the world that are Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Cho Oyu. 

If you want to try the Short Everest Base Camp trek then, you must be mentally and physically prepared. If you have any questions on “How to prepare for Everest Base Camp?”. Well, we have answers to your questions just click on the link. 

The trek begins with a scenic flight to Lukla. As usual, we descended to Phakding for an overnight stay. The following day, the trails head towards the Sherpa town which is Namche Bazaar. It is the town where you never get bored. All you do is have fun. Remember! there is no acclimatization day in the short Everest Base Camp trek. 

As you trek and go further, you will never notice that you have been walking inside Sagarmatha National Park. En route, you may encounter rare wild animals like Blue sheep, Red Pandas, Himalayan Tahr, Snow leopards, and so on. In Tengboche, Tengboche Monastery (Dawa Choling Gompa) is proudly standing as the highest monastery in the Khumbu region. The next stop is Dingboche where there are multiple choices for a day trip. 

Leaving Dingboche, the trail takes to Lobuche passing through Dughla. After staying overnight in Lobuche, the next stop is Gorak Shep which is also the final destination of the trek. From Gorakshep, you can have access to Everest Base Camp and Kalapattar. Normally, travelers take a day hike to Everest Base Camp after lunch whereas Kalapattar is an early morning hike. Kalapattar has the classic view of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. 

Short Everest Base Camp trek is the ultimate choice for short treks in Nepal. This trek allows admiring EBC and Kalapattar in a short period. 

8. Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek- Embark on a Remarkable Himalayan Journey to Annapurna's Heart 

Max. Elevation: 4,130 meters

Accommodation: Tea Houses, Hotels, and lodges

Duration: 5-8 Days

Location: Annapurna Region

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trip Highlights

• Annapurna Base Camp in fewer days.
• Chomrong village with a spectacular view.
• Annapurna Conservation Area with diverse flora and fauna.
• End of the trek with Jhinu Danda Natural Hot Spring.

Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most famous trekking trails in the world. Every backpacker has dreamed of conquering the Annapurna Base Camp. Is it too long for you to trek ABC from Ghorepani? Let us present to you the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek which can only take around 6 days. The trail has beautiful landscapes and cultural values. This trekking can be an ideal choice where you can have a week's worth of quality time.

The Short Annapurna Base Camp trek introduces you to the magnificent mountains, divine culture, and welcoming hospitality. The committee of Annapurna has a dense majority of Magar and Gurung ethnicities along with other ethnic backgrounds too. Also, they have been preserving their ancient cultures and norms in this era of modernization. On the way, you may notice locals decorated in cultural dress.

The trail of Short Annapurna Base Camp passes through Annapurna Conservation Area. That means you can encounter rare and endangered animals like Langur, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Musk Deer, and much more hiding behind the dense forest of Rhododendrons, Pine, and Oak.

The trail shares a splendid view of towering mountains. You can admire all those humongous mountains from different perspectives and still, it can be beautiful as always. Chomrong village has iconic close views of Machapuchhare, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Gangapurna, and so on. Don’t worry! The marvelous view will never leave your sight.

As you reach Annapurna Base Camp you will be blessed with complete 360 views surrounded by mountains. The mountain range includes Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna II & III, Machhapuchhare, and Himchuli along with the 10th highest mountain in the world Annapurna I(8091 m).

Yes, you can have all those experiences in just a week. Can Short Annapurna Base Camp be your next trek? Let us know. 

9. Short Manaslu Circuit Trek- Discover the Enchanting Himalayan Wilderness on an Epic Journe.

Max. Elevation: 5,106 meters

Accommodation: Tea Houses, and lodges

Duration: 11-12 Days

Location: Manaslu Region

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trip Highlights

• Amazing culture, inspiring lifestyle, and tradition.
• Off-beaten trail with outstanding landscapes.
• Explore Manaslu Base Camp, Glacier Lake, and Glacier.
• Crossing Larke La Pass (5,106 m)
• The 8th highest mountain in the world Mt Manaslu (8,163m)
• Chance to visit Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area. 
• Various Buddhist monasteries.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is getting more popular day by day as the trail has a fascinating lifestyle, a culture that reminds of Tibetan culture, and of course, Mt Manaslu (8,163m) standing as the 8th highest mountain in the world. In terms of the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is famous among adventure lovers that can accept any challenge that comes across the trek. It sounds a little bit dramatic that it might be a tough trek. Although if you are a beginner, it can be a piece of cake if you are mentally and physically prepared.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a tea house basis trek that circles around Mt. Manaslu. The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Arughat. The initial phase of the trek starts from the lower altitude village with warmer weather. As the altitude rises the trail takes you to more wildernesses and got to know what Manaslu is all about. Throughout the trek, you may meet people of different ethnicities. As you go further to higher altitudes, the majority of people are from the Gurung community.

After the devastating earthquake in 2015, Short Manaslu Circuit Trek was highly affected. But, it turns out to be a positive result for the trial. As new Tea Houses were built afterward. This off-beaten trail gets a second chance to rise again. With the glorious view of Mt Manaslu and Ganesh Himal along with the thrilling Larke La Pass (5,160m), it has been the favorite spot for trekking.

There is more about Short Manaslu Circuit Trek. The trail is rich in religious value. You can give a visit to century-old monasteries from Nubri Valley. The valley consists of Lho Gomba, Sama Gaun Gomba, Prok Gomba, and many more which are not mentioned here. On your visit to monasteries, you can meet with Lamas and Monks. The strong belief in Buddhism of the inhabitant cannot be breached by anyone. 

We are not finished yet; the “Short” Manaslu Circuit trek’s wilderness and ecosystem are incomparable. Whereas the trail touches both Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area. Moreover, Conservation Area has been protecting endangered animals like Snow Leopards, Red Foxes, Jackals, and Brown bears, and their prey species like Himalayan Tahr, Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Himalayan Serow, and many more. 

10. The Annapurna Royal Trek- Exploring the Scenic Himalayan Majesty on a Regal Journey.

Max. Elevation: 1,750 meters

Accommodation: Tea Houses and Homestay

Duration: 5-9 Days

Location: Annapurna Region

Difficulty: Easy

Trip Highlights

• An easy and short trek of the Annapurna region.
• Patle Danda with an overwhelming view of the Annapurna range and other mountain ranges.
• Syaklung village- key attraction of the trek.
• Chance to visit Rupa Lake and Begnas Lake.

The Royal Trek is one of the best shorts to choose from in Nepal that takes you closer to the Annapurna range. The Royal Trek has an interesting history as it was first explored by Prince Charles and his 90 entourage in the early 80s. So the trail was named after the visit of the Royal family. The trek is easy and does not take you to a higher altitude. So, it can be an excellent choice for beginner trekkers.

The Royal Trek is situated on the northern side of Pokhara city which takes you to the unspoiled and less crowded countryside of Pokhara. If you are seeking privacy and peace this trek can be an ideal choice. The trek starts from Bajyapur Khola after taking 2 hours of drive from Pokhara. As the trek starts the trail passes through small settlements working with their traditional primitive methods. 

The trail of The Royal Trek leads to the virgin landscape and scenery which you have not seen before. The trek offers an untouched view of the Annapurna Range, Machapuchhare, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal. Likewise, the trial presents you with the unchanged tradition and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar ethics which they have been following for thousands of years. 

Talking about the difficulty of the trek, it might be the easiest trek on the list. As mentioned before, this trek does not take you to a higher altitude but indeed it will take you to beautiful destinations. More than that, the trail passes through Rupa Lake and Begnas Lake too as a bonus. 

Conclusion

The list above of the Top 10 best short treks to choose from in Nepal is presented by Nepal Mother House for your ultimate experience. There are other interesting short trekking trails that are not listed here. Stay connected with us for more info.