Trekking in Nepal for beginners with Nepal Treks and Tour is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it requires some preparation and knowledge to ensure safety and enjoyment. Nepal offers a wide range of trekking options, from easy and moderate treks to more challenging routes. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or relatively new to hiking, there are several beginner-friendly trekking routes in Nepal that offer stunning views, cultural immersion, and a memorable adventure.
Here’s a complete guide for beginners to trekking in Nepal:
1. Best Beginner Treks in Nepal
These trekking routes are well-suited for those who are new to hiking or trekking, offering moderate difficulty and shorter durations.
1.1 Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Duration: 4–5 days
Max Altitude: 3,210m (Poon Hill)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly treks in Nepal. The route is relatively short, and the elevation gain is gradual, making it perfect for first-time trekkers.
You’ll experience stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and see the famous Poon Hill sunrise, a highlight of the trek.
The trail is well-maintained, and there are plenty of teahouses (lodges) along the way, making it a comfortable trek.
1.2 Langtang Valley Trek
Duration: 7–9 days
Max Altitude: 3,870m (Kyanjin Ri)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
The Langtang Valley Trek offers beautiful scenery, a relatively low altitude, and a chance to experience Nepali culture and the Tibetan way of life.
It’s a moderate trek with gradual ascents through lush forests, past waterfalls, and alongside rivers.
You’ll also visit Kyanjin Gompa, a Buddhist monastery located at the base of Langtang Lirung (7,227m), and can hike up to Kyanjin Ri for incredible mountain views.
1.3 Everest View Trek
Duration: 5–7 days
Max Altitude: 3,880m (Syangboche)
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
If you want to see Mount Everest but don’t want to trek all the way to Everest Base Camp, the Everest View Trek is perfect for beginners.
This trek doesn’t take you all the way to Everest but provides breathtaking views of Everest and other peaks like Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.
The trek is relatively short and begins from Lukla. You'll stay in Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Syangboche, experiencing Sherpa culture along the way.
1.4 Australian Camp Trek
Duration: 2–3 days
Max Altitude: 2,100m (Australian Camp)
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
The Australian Camp Trek is ideal for those who want a short and easy trek in Nepal. It’s a low-altitude trek, perfect for beginners or people who are limited on time.
The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and passes through beautiful villages and forests.
It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Pokhara.
1.5 Dhampus Sarangkot Trek
Duration: 3–4 days
Max Altitude: 1,600m (Sarangkot)
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
This is an easy and short trek near Pokhara, offering great views of the Annapurna Range and Machapuchare (Fish Tail).
You’ll pass through lush forests, traditional Nepali villages, and enjoy a peaceful environment away from crowds.
Sarangkot is famous for its sunrise views over the mountains, making it a perfect trek for beginners looking for a shorter adventure.
2. Basic Preparation for Beginner Trekkers
Trekking in Nepal can be an incredible experience for beginners, but it’s important to prepare ahead of time.
2.1 Fitness Preparation
While these treks are not extreme, a basic level of fitness will make the experience much more enjoyable. Focus on building cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina.
Cardio exercises like running, cycling, or swimming will help you build stamina for the trek.
Leg strength is important, so focus on exercises like squats and lunges.
Practice hiking on local trails with a backpack to simulate trekking conditions.
2.2 Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is a risk when trekking in Nepal, even at moderate altitudes. It’s important to give your body time to adjust to higher altitudes.
Take rest days to acclimatize if trekking above 2,500m.
Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and ensure you eat well to help your body adapt.
2.3 Essential Gear
For beginner treks, you’ll need appropriate gear to ensure your comfort and safety:
Trekking Boots: Comfortable, waterproof boots with ankle support.
Clothing: Layer your clothes for warmth. A moisture-wicking base layer, fleece or down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer are essential.
Backpack: A comfortable backpack (30-40L) for carrying essentials.
Sleeping Bag: A 3-season sleeping bag for trekking above 3,000m.
Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle and a water purification system (filter or tablets).
First Aid Kit: Basic supplies such as pain relievers, bandages, and any personal medications.
Sunscreen & Lip Balm: Protect your skin and lips from high-altitude sun exposure.
3. Other Considerations for Beginner Trekkers
3.1 Trekking Permits
Trekking in Nepal requires permits, especially in protected areas or national parks. You will need to get the following:
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) for popular trekking areas.
National Park Permit: For areas like Annapurna and Langtang regions.
3.2 Guide and Porter
While guides are not mandatory, they can be very helpful, especially for beginners. A guide can help with navigation, explain local culture, and assist in case of any emergency.
Hiring a porter to carry your heavy bag can help you focus on the trek without overburdening yourself.
3.3 Health and Safety
Trekking Insurance: Make sure your travel insurance covers trekking at high altitudes (above 3,000m) and potential emergencies (including evacuation).
Carry some snacks (like energy bars, nuts, or chocolate) to keep your energy levels up throughout the trek.
4. Best Time for Beginner Treks in Nepal
The best seasons for trekking in Nepal are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and temperatures are moderate.
Winter (December to February) can be very cold at higher altitudes, and Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rain, which can make trekking difficult and dangerous.
Conclusion
Trekking in Nepal for beginners with Nepal Treks and Tour offers a variety of beginner-friendly routes that showcase the beauty of the Himalayas, Nepali culture, and serene landscapes. By choosing the right trek, preparing adequately, and taking necessary precautions, you’ll be able to enjoy the adventure safely and with confidence. Whether you’re taking the easy-going Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek or exploring the Langtang Valley, trekking in Nepal will leave you with unforgettable memories!