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Talk to trip expertNepal is known as a trekker’s paradise because it offers various trekking routes from easy treks to challenging high-altitude treks. Nepal is an amazing destination for outdoor lovers and for beginners who want to enjoy the diverse Nepalese landscapes. Beginners can start with accessible treks such as Ghorepani Poon Hill, Ghandruk, Langtang Valley, Dhampus Village, or Nagarkot to Chisapani. More advanced trekkers might consider the challenging Everest Base Camp route
Well-marked trail and hospitality offers a great trekking experience to beginner and experienced trekkers. Additionally, friendly guides and service providers not only look after you and your safety, but also comfort you. Nepal has many beginner-friendly treks that provide beautiful views of mountains without being generally too tricky in terms of altitude and technical climbing.
This blog seeks to introduce the top 5 easy treks for beginners with beautiful landscapes and reasonable distances and altitudes. There will also be a useful starter guide for those who are preparing to go trekking in Nepal for beginners, covering things like packing, permits, and guides.
New trekkers can enjoy the beautiful natural and cultural scenery of Nepal while trekking on beginner-friendly trails. From breathtaking mountain views to tranquil village life, trekking in Nepal for beginners offers a unique and rewarding Himalayan experience that is not out of reach.
Why Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Is Possible
Various routes in Nepal are suitable for people with different fitness levels ranging from beginners to experienced trekkers. Some trails will take you to the valleys, hills, and mountains which allow beginners to enjoy the amazing natural beauty of Nepal with less to high physical demand. This allows novices to feel confident in their exploration of Nepalese treks.
Nepal’s trekking trails have cozy tea-houses, experienced guides, and well-maintained paths which allow for a comforting journey. These factors help instill a sense of safety and security for new trekkers in Nepal meaning less on logistics and planning.
It is also possible for beginner trekkers to trek here in Nepal without high altitude or extended strenuous days. Many of the easier treks remain at a lower elevation, meaning little risk of altitude sickness. Lots of the lower elevation treks require short distances each day meaning trekkers can set off at their own comfortable pace that enables them to enjoy their trekking experience without discomfort.
Trekking in Nepal for beginners is an amazing experience because of the trails that frequently pass through traditional villages. While walking through these trails you’ll directly experience the culture of Nepal, from local customs, traditional foods, and warm hospitality.
These beginner treks are especially suitable for families, solo travelers, solo adventurers, and those taking their first trek into trekking. The gentle terrain, excellent infrastructure, and elements of culture make trekking in Nepal such a great place for anyone who is commencing their life-changing trek adventure, to ensure a satisfying and memorable experience!
Top 5 Easy Treks in Nepal for Beginners
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is popular for trekking in Nepal for first-timers. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a simple trek that spans 4-5 days in the Annapurna region and it is accessible for first-time trekkers. It has markings, features, beautiful rhododendron forests, and will not be hazardous for new trekkers.
Pokhara, the city of lakes is where the trek begins and moves to Nayapul, then onto the charming villages of Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk. The trek route is moderately difficult, providing trekkers with a good amount of time to take in the lovely mountain views, scenery, and cultural elements.
Poon Hill being located at 3,210 meters brands it as a popular sunrise viewpoint. You’ll be rewarded with an amazing panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. Additionally, you’ll get an opportunity to experience the Gurung and Magar traditions while in Ghandruk.
The route has major accommodation in tea houses, making it comfortable for all walking days. There is no need for any prior trekking experience.
Given these reasons, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek trip is suitable for families, personal trekking, and lots of first-time trekking in Nepal for beginners. There is ample natural beauty, cultural experiences, and gentle hikes, making it a perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking.
Ghandruk Trek
The Ghandruk Trek is the best way to begin trekking in Nepal for any beginner. Over 2-3 days, you’ll be climbing approximately 2000 meters. It’s a short trek that is scenic, has traditional Gurung villages, and is surrounded by beautiful views of the Annapurna Mountains.
The trek begins in Pokhara. From there, you will take a short drive to Nayapul and begin your trek by an easy walk through terraced fields and along a picturesque forest trail. You will be trekking through charming villages like Tolka and Dhampus and an hour after that you will reach Ghandruk.
The village of Ghandruk is one of the highlights of this trek. It has a 360-degree view of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), along with other peaks. Along the trek, you will have opportunities for cultural experiences as well, including visits to local museums and monasteries. The trek offers so much more than a scenic experience of nature.
The trek is incredibly easy to complete as you will have reasonably comfortable tea houses to sleep in, and the terrain is manageable for families or solo trekkers, or beginners who want a simple introduction to trekking in Nepal. With a variety of cultures, nature, and an easy route, it is a contender for the best beginner trek in Nepal.
Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang Valley Trek is a fantastic trek for beginner trekkers in Nepal, which lasts a total of 5 to 7 days, with a maximum elevation of 3,800 meters, which can always be excluded for acclimatization. It is just a short distance from Kathmandu, however, it offers great mountain scenery with the Langtang Himal and rich Tamang culture.
The trek starts in Syabrubesi and moves from lush forests and yak pastures, quaint villages like Langtang and Kyanjin Gompa. This trek is less popular than other treks in Nepal, so you will experience a very peaceful trek, where beginners can indulge in nature and the hospitality of locals without hordes of trekkers.
Dhampus Village Trek
For beginners looking to trek in Nepal especially if time is limited, the Dhampus Village Trek is an excellent option. This is an easy trek over two days right after a short drive from Pokhara. It has lovely views of the Annapurna mountain range including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
The trek is relatively easy to follow. It is well defined, moving through peaceful terraced rice fields, dense forests, and traditional Gurung villages. On the way, trekkers can see some local wildlife, and experience the hospitality of locals.
While on trek, trekkers can take rest at cozy tea houses and eat Nepali food, while soaking in the atmosphere, making it an easy but rewarding trek. At the end of the trek, Dhampus village is at a ridge which provides eye-pleasing views of the Himalayan range.
This trek is a year-round trek, and doesn’t require any permits so it is easy for first-time trekkers. The Dhampus Village Trek is close to Pokhara and is only a short trek making it an easy choice in trekking in Nepal for beginners who want a little bit of everything and to be away from the city. It is a top recommendation if you are considering trekking in Nepal.
Nagarkot to Chisapani Trek
The Nagarkot to Chisapani is a great beginner trek in Nepal. This trek takes 2-3 days and features moderate treks with gentler steep sections, ideal and safe for beginner trekkers. Because this trek is nearby of Kathmandu, logistics are easy.
Nagarkot to Chisapani Trek will reach its maximum elevation at 2,200 meters which reduces the risks of altitude sickness. You can enjoy the great panorama of the Langtang range, forest trails, and a glimpse of the traditional culture of the villages. This is what makes trekking in Nepal for beginners safe and incredibly rewarding.
You will pass through pretty hamlets and peaceful rhododendron forests in Nagarkot to the Chisapani trek. On this trek, you’ll be able to witness a piece of local culture, interact with and meet villagers, and also see the peaceful countryside of Nepal.
This trek is also ideal for people wanting a short trek that does not require the trekkers to leave the Kathmandu Valley. The trek is able to provide an excellent taste of natural wonders as well as cultural wonders that Nepal is famous for. It is with all these considerations that the Nagarkot to Chisapani Trek uniquely positions itself as one of the best trekking routes in Nepal for beginners in an exciting mix of scenery, comfort, and accessibility.
Starter Guide for Trekking in Nepal as a Beginner
When is the Best Time to Go?
Spring and fall are the best times to trek in Nepal for beginners. These months have favorable weather for trekking. Days are sunny with moderate temperatures and the visibility is clear due to which you can see the amazing mountain for pleasant trails.
It is best to avoid the monsoon rain because the rain causes landslides, muddy trails, and poor visibility. Additionally, the rainy seasons have a greater risk of leeches on the trails. Therefore, it is important to choose the right seasons to have an enjoyable trek in Nepal for beginners.
What to Pack for Easy Treks
It is essential to pack the necessary items for a safe and comfortable journey. You need to pack a light daypack, a good pair of trekking shoes, layered clothing, trekking poles, etc. Packing these components will help you stay comfortable and safe in the changing weather and landscapes.
Additionally, pack sun protectants, medications, and light snacks. Packing such items will keep you safe from sunburn, hunger, and keep you healthy throughout your trek. To have an easy trek in Nepal, packing light with only essential items is vital.
Do You Need a Guide or Porter?
When trekking in Nepal as a beginner, it is important to hire a guide or porter to safely navigate the routes like Langtang, Poon Hill, etc. Guides will provide you with insights into the place and will assist you based on your experience and the terrain, and contribute to your safety on the track.
Porter will have you carry all of your load which allows you to enjoy the trek without the burden of heavy gear. Having a local guide also means you can get a level of comfort if you’re trekking in Nepal as a beginner.
Permits You’ll Need
All trekkers in Nepal must have a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card that gives the authorities a way to track who visits the region and where. It is also a function of safety. This card is important in Nepal.
Additionally, you will need other permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for trekking in the Annapurna region, and the Langtang National Park permit for trekking in the Langtang region. If you are unsure about the permits you need when traveling in Nepal then you can check them in our other permits-related blogs.
Accommodation and Food
Most of the treks in Nepal offer teahouse accommodation. Teahouses usually provide basic shared accommodation and basic meals. This is a good introduction to local hospitality and provides an excellent way for beginners to rest in comfort each night.
Each teahouse will come with shared bathrooms and simple amenities but will offer hot showers and wi-fi for an extra charge. The hospitality will be warm and welcoming, which helps to create a good trekking experience for beginners in Nepal. It also creates a chance to connect with other trekkers as well as the local hosting community.
Tips for First-Time Trekkers in Nepal
- Begin your trek at a slower pace and rest as necessary to prevent fatigue and injury.
- Drink plenty of water and eat plenty of good-quality nutritious food to fuel your body when trekking for long hours in Nepal.
- Always respect local customs and local people by dressing fairly modestly and when you greet locals, please dip your head.
- Please take a reusable drinking water bottle and avoid single-use plastics to help lower your impact on the environment.
- Bring the right clothing and rainwear to cope with changes in weather before you go trekking.
- To have a safe and enjoyable journey, listen to your guide and stick to the marked trails.
Conclusion
Nepal has many scenic and easy treks perfect for beginners who want to enjoy the beautiful Himalayas and local culture. Trekking routes like Langtang, Poon Hill, Ghorepani, Dhampus, etc treks are a gentle introduction to trekking, provide amazing mountain views, and a cultural experience for people who have never trekked before.
When trekking in Nepal as beginners you will feel a sense of empowerment. If you are ready to experience such things, then pack for a trek and arrange proper permits along with a guide. You will enjoy and have comfortable experiences in the tranquility of the Himalayas without being overly challenged.
As a beginner, trekking in Nepal can be fun, safe, and life lifetime memory. As long as you are aware of local customs, take your own pace, and are conscious of your environmental footprint, you can create great memories and fall in love with the art of trekking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need prior hiking experience for these treks?
There is no need to have had prior trekking experience, as all of the beginner treks are achievable and accessible for a first-time trekker with the most basic level of fitness.
- Can I do these treks solo as a beginner?
You can trek solo, but we recommend that beginners hire a guide for safety, navigation and to understand the local culture, especially for trekking on unfamiliar routes.
- Are beginner treks still scenic?
Yes, beginner treks journey through beautiful mountain views and lush forests, and expose you to rich local culture. These beginner treks offer stunning scenery despite being easier routes.
- How do I book a guide or permit in advance?
You can book guides and permits (TIMS and national park passes) through trekking agencies before your trip online, or you can book them once in Kathmandu before your trek.