Are you afraid by the high altitudes that people normally go through in regular treks in Nepal? Don't worry, because in this article, we discuss the 7 best low-altitude trekking options in Nepal, which are just as rewarding and memorable as other treks.
Trekking has been one of the most popular outdoor activities in Nepal to this day. Over 200,000 tourists visit the Nepal only for trekking and Hiking each year. Most of these adventurers choose popular treks such as the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Langtang Valley Trek.
Ever since Col. Jimmy Roberts who is known as "the father of trekking in Nepal", started trekking in the 1950s, millions of foreigners have visited Nepal for adventures activities. Nepal is the best trekking destinations in the world for every visitor no matter what they are looking for.
Almost every major trekking region of Nepal offers short trek adventures that come with low risks and high reward, such as Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Foothill Tea House Trek, Pikey Peak Trek, and Tamang Heritage Trek.
If you are troubled with a limited stay in Nepal, are an elderly traveler, have no prior trekking experience, or are prone to altitude sickness, these treks are ideal for you. Now let's learn more about these treks:
Note: *They are not in ranking order
1. Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang Valley Trekis a perfect choice for you if you're seeking stunning landscapes without the extreme altitudes. It is one of the oldest and most accessible treks in Nepal that you can find which is located near Kathmandu. Your journey starts at Syabrubesi (1,503 meters), going through the trail ascending to Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870 meters, which offers you a manageable elevation gain.
Langtang Valley is nestled between the Himalayan range to the north and a range of lower snow-capped giants to the south. It not only offers breathtaking views with less altitude struggles but it is also rich in cultural and authentic experiences, and has diverse wildlife. In this 7-10-day trek, you will be walking for 6 to 7 hours on average. However, it can vary based on your itinerary, walking pace, and frequent breaks.
In addition to offering breathtaking views, this trek lets you in the rich Tamang culture, allowing you to visit traditional Tamang villages, engage with the locals people, and experience their traditions. The ancient Kyanjin Gompa and the many monasteries around give your walk a more spiritual feel. The Langtang Valley's varied flora and fauna provide you the opportunity to see uncommon animals including Himalayan tahr, red pandas, and a varieties of other bird species.
Langtang Valley trek is a moderately difficult that requires not much prior experience at all, so if you want to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas without high-altitude struggles, then this trek is perfect for you.
2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
If you are a big fan of panoramic sunrise views, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the best short trek for you. This destination is popular for its golden sunrise views over the iconic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It lasts for 2 to 5 days, depending on your chosen itinerary and starting point at the desired pace.
Your journey starts from Nayapul at 1,070 meters high, then the trek ascends to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, where you will gain a moderate elevation. The hike offers a stunning sunrise vista from Poon Hill and passes through charming villages, terraced farms, and verdant rhododendron forests.
It’s a popular choice among visitors because of the quick access to the Annapurna region with a relatively easy hiking experience. You will hike along the Annapurna massif’s foothills, Gurung and Magar villages and have a chance to see the vibrant Himalayan lifestyle. You will witness a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural encounters on this trek. Therefore, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is one of the best low-altitude trekking routes in Nepal.
3. Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is a great low-altitude trekking option for you if you are trying to do less crowded trekking destinations and enjoy tranquil views of the Annapurna range and the Machhapuchhre Himal.
This hidden gem in the Annapurna region can be reached in 4 to 10 days, depending on the itinerary and walking pace. Your journey comemences from Kande or Phedi at 1,770 meters, then ascends to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters. Along the trail, you will pass through traditional villages and experience the local culture and lifestyle. If you are a big fan of a visually captivating trek, then the Mardi Himal Trek is best for you as it offers you lush forests to rugged mountain terrain, an overall diverse trekking experience.
If you are a beginner trekker with a good fitness level and want to travel in solitude and tranquility, the Mardi Himal trek is absolutely compatible with your taste.
4. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Many trekkers want to visit popular trekking destinations in Nepal and experience them. At the same time, not everyone can handle the challenging high altitude. In this case, the popular Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is the right choice for you.
This traditional 12-day trip offers a thorough understanding of Nepal's varied landscapes and cultures. Your trek starts from Nayapul at 1,070 meters, but the trek itself reaches its highest point at Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. This lower elevation hike offers a distinctive trekking experience with stunning views of famous peaks like the Annapurna massif. It passes through alpine meadows, rhododendron woods, and terraced farmlands.
Surprisingly, you don't need prior trekking experience to do this moderately difficult trek, as long as you have good physical fitness and preparation even beginners can successfully complete the trek.
There are several highlights of this trek, such as visiting Annapurna Conservation Area, exploring Gurung villages and traditional houses, enjoying local cuisine, and witnessing cultural performances, and witnessing the majestic scenery of Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre.
A breathtaking 360-degree view of snow-capped giants welcomes you at the end of the climb to Annapurna Base Camp. Are you prepared for an exciting and diverse trekking trip in Nepal? If so, ABC Trek is essential.
5. Everest Foothill Tea House Trek
If you have always wanted to experience the culture and intensity of the Everest region, but because of how physically demanding, challenging, and lengthy the trek is, you never got a chance? Then the Everest Foothill Tea House trek is a must-do trek for you.
At 3,930 meters, Everest Foothill trek lasts for around 10 days, if you can walk for 3 to 7 hours each day, so make sure you have a moderate fitness level. It is one of the most underrated short treks in Nepal, which offers you enough time to explore the surroundings, observe the local Sherpa culture and lifestyle, and witness the mountainous panorama of some of the highest peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam.
Your trek starts at the mountainous town of Lukla and gradually moves upstream alongside the Dudh Koshi River. During the journey, you will witness the majestic Sherpa villages of Phakding, Monjo village, Tok-Tok, and Namche Bazaar en route to Tengboche. This is a perfect Everest experience in a less challenging version.
You will have a chance to explore Sagarmatha National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and visit Tengboche monastery. You can do this trek even if you have no prior trekking experience; however, maintaining a good level of physical fitness is always recommended.
6. Pikey Peak Trek
Are you a culture and nature enthusiast trekker looking for short and easy yet rewarding trek? Then Pikey Peak Trek is the perfect trek for you. Doesn't matter if it's your first time trekking, because you can swiftly complete this trek and everyone deserves to enjoy panoramic views of iconic peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu etc. Sir Edmund Hillary himself has said that the view from Pikey Peak is one of the “best he had ever seen”.
Pikey Peak serves as a local landmark in the Solukhumbu district of Eastern Nepal at 4,065 meters. This short Himalayan adventure lasts for 3 to 7 days where you traverse through forested ridges and small settlements including a climb through Sigane and Jhapre to reach Pikey Peak Base Camp. After a short hike from the base camp you will reach Pikey Peak.
You will also have a chance to visit the 19th Century Thupten Choling Monastery, witness the beautiful sight of the sunrise and sunset from Pikey Peak and explore ethnic Sherpa villages of Eastern Nepal. So, are you down for this quick adventure? Let us know in the comments below.
7. Tamang Heritage Trek
Last but not the least, Tamang Heritage Trek is perfect for you if you are looking for cultural immersion opportunities while enjoying mountain views within a short period, even if you have no prior trekking experience. This trek is not overly technical or demanding in regards to altitude but a good level of physical fitness is always recommended.
The Tamang Heritage trek lasts for approximately 6 to 9 days and offers a unique cultural experience, showcasing the rich heritage of the local Tamang people of the region. Your trek commences from Syabrubesi at 1,503 meters and the trail ascends to the highest point in Nagthali Ghyang at 3,165 meters.
You will traverse through traditional Tamang villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, allowing you to enjoy the warm hospitality of the Tamang people, interact and learn about their customs and traditions.
Besides the rich cultural experience, it also offers stunning views of the Langtang valley and Ganesh Himal. On the trail, you will have a chance to visit ancient monasteries, hot springs, and scenic viewpoints. The Tamang Heritage Trail is a community-based trek, so your visits directly benefit the local businesses, supporting sustainable tourism and cultural preservation at the same time.
So does this trek sound like your next adventure? Let us know in the comments below.
Conclusion
These are just some of the many Low-altitude treks in Nepal. Honorable mentions are Chisapani Nagarkot Trek, Kathmandu Valley Trek, Lower Dolpo Trek, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek.
For many tourists, Nepal offers equally stunning views, lively cultures, and unforgettable memories without the risk of altitude sickness and strenuous trekking. The country is not simply about high-altitude expeditions.
It doesn't matter if you’re a first-time trekker, short on time, or simply seeking a gentler and quick adventure, you are bound to be rewarded with breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and the true essence of Himalayan trekking in these treks.
So, pack your bags and get ready to trek in Nepal’s most rewarding short treks with us!
Feel free to reach out to us for more travel information and arrangements on www.ammoniteadventure.com where we make your journey effortless.
Happy Trekking!!!
