Embarking on the best short treks in Nepal is an unforgettable adventure, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. Each step unveils stunning landscapes, from lush forests to towering peaks, while encounters with local communities enrich the journey with cultural insights. Among the plethora of options, Pokhara stands out as a gateway to some of the most captivating trails. Himalayan Asia Treks and Expedition P Ltd curates exceptional experiences, showcasing the region's diversity. From the serene beauty of Ghorepani Poon Hill trek to the mystical allure of the Annapurna Base Camp trek, each expedition promises awe-inspiring panoramas and rewarding challenges. Other notable treks include the culturally rich Ghalegaun trek, the scenic Dhampus trek, and the adventure-packed Mardi Himal trek. With expert guidance and unparalleled hospitality, these short treks epitomize the essence of Nepal's mountainous splendor.
Perfect for first-time visitors or families, Best Short treks in Nepal is longtime been at the top of things to do in Nepal. Easier than long or regular treks, Short treks in Nepal take you through the Himalayas in just a few days. For those short on time but still want to experience the Nepalese Himalayas at their best, short treks are the perfect solution! While the trekking packages in Nepal stay the same as the full treks, shortcuts can be made by further driving or starting the trek from further up the trail. Short treks in Nepal are also a great option to get used to trekking in the high altitudes and can be very rewarding in terms of views, culture, and experience.
Our Best 5 Short Treks in Nepal
- 12 Days Short Everest Base Camp Trek
- Short Everest View Trek
- Short Upper Mustang Trek
- Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Short Langtang Valley Trek
12 Days Short Everest Base Camp Trek
The most popular trek in Nepal, trekkers and mountain enthusiasts head out every year to visit Everest Base Camp. While most trekking packages start from Kathmandu, the short Everest Base Camp trek starts and ends from Lukla airport. This short trek in Nepal cuts some days of the itinerary, making the short Everest Base Camp trek into 11 days only. Therefore, you need to get your flight ticket from Kathmandu and start the hike as soon as you land in Lukla. The trail is the same as the classical Everest Base Camp and begins with a short trek to Phakding. The next day goes to Namche Bazaar, the most significant Sherpa settlement of the entire region. An extra day for acclimatization is held. Followed by a trek to Tengboche and Dingboche, another day for acclimatization is planned. From here, it's just a two days trek to reach Base Camp going via Lobuche and Gorakshep. The way back to Lukla airport goes via Pheriche to Namche Bazaar.
What can you expect from the 12 Days short Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal?
Besides the excellent mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and back, the short Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days is the same as the regular Everest Base Camp. This Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Day means you can expect the same incredible sights and experience but in a shorter time frame! So what can you expect from the short Everest Base Camp trek? Well, first of all, you get to go to the world's most popular base camp Everest Base Camp, secondly, a beautiful sunrise view at Kala Pathar over Mt Everest. Besides this, you also get to experience the Nepalese Himalayas at their best! See some of the enormous mountains in the world, such as; Mt Everest (8,848m), Mt Lhotse (8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and Mt Makalu (8,485m).
Short Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary:
Day 01: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,652m)
Day 02: Phakding trek to Namche Bazaar (3,443m)
Day 03: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
Day 04: Namche Bazaar trek to Tengboche (3,860m)
Day 05: Tengboche trek to Dingboche (4,410m)
Day 06: Acclimatization hike to Nangkartseng Hill (4,900m)
Day 07: Dingboche trek to Lobuche (4,910m)
Day 08: Exploring Everest Base Camp and back to Gorekshep (5,181m)
Day 09: Sunrise hike to Kala Pathar 5,545m and trek down to Pheriche (4,371m)
Day 10: Trek back to Namche Bazaar.
Day 11: Trek back to Lukla and end the trek.
Day12: Fly to Kathmandu and Departure.
It is even possible to shorten this trek by taking a helicopter ride from Pheriche back to Lukla. Although this can increase your cost, it is worth it as the views are extraordinary on this flight!
Short Everest View Trek
The short Everest View Trek is a seven days short trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal. In just a couple of days of trekking, you visit during this short trek Namche Bazaar and the famous Everest View Hotel in Syangboche. With the short Everest View trek, you can expect incredible picturesque landscapes and some of the enormous mountains of the world in the distance. As a short trek, the Everest View trek can be done by anybody and is a great experience for first-time trekkers in Nepal. With a few ups and downs, the trails of this short trek go through the Sagarmatha National Park up to Namche Bazaar. In this cultural and Sherpa inhabited settlement, there are some great activities. The village itself is located on a mountain ridge with incredible views of the Everest region. Besides that, this trekker's prominent spot is also filled with intriguing shops and charming restaurants to enjoy the scenery from an outdoor terrace. But the main highlight of the short Everest View Trek is a hike up to the famous Everest View Hotel. In just a few hours of hiking, you can reach there and enjoy the afternoon with some of the best mountain views of Nepal.
What can you expect from the short Everest View trek in Nepal?
The short Everest View trek is especially famous for its incredible views of the Nepalese Himalayas. The fact that it's a short trek makes it also very popular amongst families and couples. The most you can expect from the short Everest View trek are incredible views, adventurous trails, and seeing the Sherpa culture up close. The Everest View Hotel, Namche Bazaar, and the short hike through the Sagarmatha National Park are great highlights for Nepal's one-week adventure. Make sure to bring your camera as there will be many fantastic click opportunities! The guest houses in Phakding during the first night of the trek are standard and offer enough comfort to face the next day. As Namche Bazaar is more significant, the option of accommodations is somewhat better than at Phakding. Lukla then has even a small mountain resort available. The best times to do Trek in Nepal, like the short Everest View trek, is during the autumn or spring seasons in Nepal, this means from September to the end of November and from March to starting June. During these times the weather will be clear and the views at their best. Don't forget that although going in the spring season, the weather can still be cold during the night, so always pack some warmer clothes before going on the trek.
Short Everest View Trek Itinerary:
Day 01: Kathmandu arrival
Day 02: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2,652m)
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,443m)
Day 04: Explore around Namche Bazaar and hike up to Everest View Hotel
Day 05: Trek back down to Lukla (2,860m)
Day 06: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 07: End of the trek
With seven days of adventure, it's helpful to know that the Short Everest View Trek follows many other treks in the Everest region and can be made longer as per your choice.
Upper Mustang Short Trek in Nepal
The short Upper Mustang trek is the perfect gateway into the forbidden trans-Himalayan Kingdom of Lo. This entire valley is filled with beautiful picturesque landscapes and ancient Tibetan Buddhist shrines. By making this a cultural experience into the forbidden kingdom to the stone-walled city of Lo Manthang. Mostly regarded as a "mini Tibet in Nepal," the Mustang area resembles a barren land with a few pastures and settlements. Some famous mountains can be viewed in the backdrop, such as Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. During the short Upper Mustang trek in Nepal, the main highlight takes place at Lo Manthang. This old capital city is incredible and filled with ancient palaces and temples. After exploring Lo Manthang, you can both hire a jeep or motorbike and drive over the barren plains of Mustang to the Nepal, China, and Tibet border. And for those comfortable with horses, it's always possible to make the border trip on horseback and experience the best of Mustang! The rest of the short Upper Mustang trek consists of a few days hiking back to Jomsom, where the next day, a flight goes back to Pokhara. As there are only a few days of trekking, this short trek in Nepal can be done by young or old and is most popular with families or bigger groups. The hike from Lo Manthang back to Jomsom takes place at 2,500 meters, so be prepared for higher altitudes.
What can you expect from the Short Upper Mustang trek in Nepal?
Fantastic culture, architecture, and trans-Himalayan landscapes combined with a short adventure are what you can expect from the short Upper Mustang trek Nepal. This trek takes place after arriving in Jomsom, a riverside village at the foot of Mt Nilgiri (7,061m). The route follows the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni, a small town famed for its apple orchards. Then a jeep ride takes you over the river into the Mustang region up to Lo Manthang. Suppose you want to expect the most of the short Upper Mustang trek, then it's helpful to know that the Tiji festival takes place in the stone-walled city once a year. As the date of every year changes, you might want to consult your travel agent before booking your trip to Nepal. Inside and around Lo Manthang, there is a lot to discover, from ancient palaces to shrines and monasteries. As the area is perfect for jeep, motorbike, or horseback the trip to the border is also incredible and perfect for views of the region and neighboring countries. The two days trek back towards Jomsom via Ghime and Sarang is a mini adventure in itself and a great outdoor activity. The way has its ups and downs following the trail, but you are rewarded with incredible and unique views!
Short Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary:
Day01: Arrival.
Day02: Fly to Pokhara.
Day 03: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom
Day 04: Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Day 05: Drive by jeep to Lo Manthang (3,840m)
Day 06: Visit the four palaces at Lo Manthang
Day 07: Explore around Nepal, China, and Tibet border by jeep, motorbike, or on horseback
Day 08: Trek to Ghimire (3,520m)
Day 09: Trek to Sarang (2,980m)
Day 10: Trek to Jomsom
Day 11: Fly to Kathmandu via Pokhara.
Day 12: Departure.
As the Short Upper Mustang Trek goes through some significant parts in the western Annapurna region, such as Jomsom and Kagbeni, it's entirely possible to make this short trek in Nepal longer. By adding a few days on your hike, you can visit the famous temple at Muktinath or explore around Jomsom!
Short Langtang Valley Trek
Ideal for a short experience or trip in Nepal, the short Langtang Valley trek is just 19miles away from the capital Kathmandu. Located near the border of Tibet, the Langtang Valley is a great way to see culture and incredible landscapes with snowcapped Himalayan mountain ranges. Famously known as the first National Park in Nepal, the short Langtang Valley trek lets you experience all kinds of amazing natural sceneries. If you are lucky, you can even spot the elusive snow leopard. But no need to worry, as this short and easy trek in Nepal is relatively safe. The guesthouses here are warm and comfortable; remember your trekking through rural Nepal up to the Kyangjin Gompa. It is highly recommended to do the short Langtang Valley trek during the spring, or autumn seasons as then the views are most precise and the skies clear blue. The highest point of the tour is the hike up to Kyanjin Ri (4,773m). Hiking up to this fantastic vantage point is a bit of a challenge, but the views from up Kyanjin Ri are breathtaking! During the trek, there are many chances to spot some wildlife, such as; a significant number of birds, the occasional monkey, and many more. The Short Langtang Valley Trek of 6 days adventure makes you want to come back more for other treks in Nepal!
What can you expect from the short Langtang Valley trek in Nepal?
Being relatively easy and incredible short outdoor adventure is what you can expect from the short Langtang Valley trek in Nepal. On the way, there are some stupas and small shrines that work as handy way markers; the views are over grassy valleys with stunning mountains in the backdrop. Being at the border of Tibet, you quickly notice that the Langtang Valley follows Buddhism largely. As the main highlight of the Kyanjin Gompa, this trek is also known to be an outdoor spiritual activity. The guesthouses are simple but with enough comfort to spend the night. As a short trek with easy-going trials and ups and downs, the short Langtang Valley trek is popular amongst nationals and internationals. So during the peak seasons, you can expect to meet other trekkers along the way. Not to worry, it's entirely possible to do this short trek in Nepal all year around. Note that during the monsoon season, which starts from mid-June to end-August, it can get slippery and dark clouds will obscure the views. Enjoy the best of Central Nepal with just six days of trekking. The short Langtang Valley trek is worth it!
Short Langtang Valley Trek Itinerary:
Day01: Arrival.
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,470m)
Day 03: Trek Ghoretabela (3,020m)
Day 04: Trek Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m)
Day 05: Hike up to Kyanjing Ri (4,773m) and trek to Langtang Village (3,430m)
Day 06: Trek to Syabrubesi
Day 07: Drive back to Kathmandu and end the trek
Day08: Departure.
There are, of course, more things to do and visit in the Langtang Valley, as so you can always make the short Langtang Valley trek longer by adding a few days and hiking also up to Tshergo Ri (5,033m) or trek further to the holy Gosaikunda Lake. A helicopter Tour is also available here that can give you some incredible mountain views of Gosaikunda Lake. The short Langtang Valley Trek gives you a great insight into the local culture, offers fantastic and easy-going trails, and makes sure to stun you with the views!
Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking 10 Days
As one of Nepal's most popular trekking routes, the short Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days lets you experience the best of the northern Annapurna Himalayas in just five days of trekking! Made ready in a ten-day package with transportation to the start of the trek and back to Kathmandu via Jomsom and Pokhara, this short trek in Nepal is easily one of the most favorites treks. Not only can you explore around the Ice Lakes but also cross the 5th highest mountain pass in the world, the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)! The entire region has been developed, and with excellent road access, you can skip a significant number of days, compared to the classical Annapurna Circuit trek that can take up to 20 to 22 days. Starting officially from Braga, an old medieval town, the short Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days goes to Manang, the most significant settlement of the region. From there, tour to Upper Lader and the next day to High Camp at the foot of Thorong La. Probably the most exciting day is the cross over the Thorong La Pass and heading to Muktinath. You slowly notice the views changing from snow-white mountains to barren lands resembling the Wild West of America. Muktinath is also a famous pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus. The village houses a famous temple with 108 water sprouts providing cleansing and spiritual water! As for the last day of trekking, an easy-going trail goes from Muktinath to the Kali Gandaki River and Jomsom. The short Annapurna Circuit trek ends the next day with a flight from Jomsom to Kathmandu via Pokhara.
What can you expect from the short Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days in Nepal?
With just five days of actual trekking, you might wonder, what can you expect from the short Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal? Well, don't worry, the northern side of the Annapurna Himalayas is extraordinary, and views of over 140 different mountains and peaks can be seen during this short trek. Furthermore, the Annapurna Circuit is linked to other trekking trails such as the Nar Phu Valley, Tilichio Lake, Annapurna Base Camp, or Poon Hill. It is even possible to start with the Manaslu Trek and continue from Besishar onto the Annapurna Circuit! You can expect great things from this trek; not only do you get to cross the Thorong La at 5,416 meters but also visit iconic Nepalese villages such as; Braga, Manang, Muktinath, and Jomsom, famed for their apple orchards. The three most notable mountains during the short Annapurna Circuit trek are; Mt Daulaghiri (8,167m), Mt Annapurna I (8,026m), and Mt Nilgiri (7,061m).
Annapurna Circuit Short Treks 10 Days in Nepal
Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu.
Day 02: Drive to Besishar (800m)
Day 03: Drive to Braga (3,450m)
Day 04: Acclimatization hike to Ice Lake and a short trek to Manang (3,520m)
Day 05: Trek to Upper Lader (4,200m)
Day 06: Trek to High Camp (4,550m)
Day 07: Trek to Muktinath (3,800m) via the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
Day 08: Trek to Jomsom (2,743m)
Day 09: Fly back to Kathmandu with transfer to Pokhara
Day10: Departure.
Of course, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days in Nepal can even be made shorter by taking a jeep ride from Muktinath back to Jomsom, saving you one day. Or you can make it longer and spend some more time around Kagbeni, stay a few days in Pokhara to enjoy Phewa Lake and all its activities. Best done during either spring or autumn, the short Annapurna Circuit trek can become impossible during the freezing winter season as the Thorong La Pass will become inaccessible due to blizzards.
Conclusion Best Short Treks in Nepal
Short treks in Nepal are the best way to enjoy the great Himalayas with just a few days of trekking. Many more short treks are available in Nepal to experience the mountains, but these are by far the best ones. So come with the family, friends, solo travelers and discover the beauty of the Himalayas with Short treks in Nepal!
