A paradise for trekkers, The Himalayas stretch across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Pakistan and are an incredible part of the world to explore. Picturesque treks through lush foothills, stunning views of the soaring mountains, remote villages, and their diverse cultures are all there to be experienced. With some of the most welcoming people in the world, you cannot help but fall in love with this fascinating region, and what better way to immerse yourself and get a real taste of the Himalayas than on foot?
Gone are the days when trekking in the Himalayas was deemed suitable only for the fittest and hardened of mountaineers – now, pretty much anyone can immerse themselves in this beautiful mountainous environment. The possibilities are endless with en-route accommodation ranging from luxury lodges boasting breathtaking views to homestays and lodges for those who really want to understand Himalayan life. Trekking in the Himalayas really can appeal to everyone as tours vary in length, capability, and group size. Here we have picked our top 10 best trekking experiences in the Himalayas.
1. 10-Day Himalayas Trekking Experience, Easy Treks & Expedition
The best trekking experience in the Himalayas has to be the 10-day Himalayas Trekking Experience by Easy Treks & Expedition. Based in Nepal, what better way to be introduced to this fascinating region than with a company native to the area? It is a stunning country steeped in history and culture – surrounding yourself in the mountains has got to be one of the best ways to enjoy it.
This is a perfect trek off the beaten track and away from the crowds, starting in Kathmandu with half a day of sightseeing and then gradually progressing to Pokhara, where the actual trek begins. Of medium difficulty, it’s definitely suitable for most people and is kept to a really lovely group size, a maximum of 14 people. The amazing trekking guide is informative and a local trekking expert, giving the group a genuine insight into local rural life. Your guide will also speak good English, so you will feel in safe hands.
The tour itself is of the perfect length and fascinating. Guests will explore intriguing villages, wade through beautiful rhododendrons, trek through thick rainforests, and admire the magnificent scenery and views. The first resting point is at Pothana, then Deurali, where guests spend their first night’s lodging. Subsequent stops thereafter are towards Low Camp, High Camp, and finally, Mardi Himal Base Camp. From here, the last leg is spent trekking down to Siding, where guests are driven back to Pokhara for the last group meal together. Usually, rather a sad affair as much bonding goes on throughout the trekking journey.
Easy Treks & Expedition takes care of everything from the minute of arrival at the airport to the very end of the adventure. From making sure that guests are fully prepared for the trek in the beginning to being there every step of the way. Easy Treks & Expedition offers service and professionalism. This a once-in-a-lifetime trekking opportunity not to be missed.
2. Sikkim Bhutan Trek, World Expeditions
The Sikkim Bhutan Trek by world expeditions starts in Kathmandu and ends in Paro. It is a 20-day cultural trek suitable for introductory and moderate-level trekkers, providing a wonderful opportunity to see and learn about the Buddhist cultural heritage. Groups are nice and small, and all transportation, meals, and overnight accommodation is organized for you.
The trek takes you between Sikkim and Bhutan through Yuksam, Paro, Phuentsholing, and ten other destinations in Nepal, India, and Bhutan. En route to Bhutan, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the local history with a visit to the ancient forts (known as dzongs) and the fascinating Buddhist monasteries in the Paro and Thimphu valleys. This trek is a great experience – exhilarating as well as culturally informative.
3. Everest Base Camp, G Adventures
If trekking to the infamous Everest Base Camp is on your bucket list, then this trek by G Adventures is for you. With small groups averaging ten people in size, it is certainly on the more adventurous side and perfect for the more active trekker who isn’t afraid to break a sweat.
Taking you up high passes and glaciers and through the charming sherpa villages where you can meet the ‘locals’ is a truly humbling and memorable experience. The panoramic scenery is impressive, and the team that accompanies you is very welcoming, professional, and knowledgeable. It is a 15-day trek, starting and finishing in Kathmandu. It is challenging at times due to the high-altitude hikes and cycling in parts, but it’s a good trek for the serious trekker.
4. Annapurna Circuit trek, Easy Treks & Expedition
This classic Annapurna Circuit trek run by Easy Treks & Expedition will take you through 15 days of adventure within four districts in the Annapurna region; Manang, Mustang, Lamjung, and Myagdi. Nothing can prepare you for the complete diversity you will experience – from lush, dense forests boasting some of the most fabulous flora and fauna to open paddy fields and intriguing villages.
First opened in 1977, this trek has been tweaked over time to provide the wonderful experience that it is now. Offering not just geographical but cultural diversity, the Annapurna Circuit trek takes you from Hindu villages in the foothills to the Tibetan Buddhist settlements in the far west. Stunning landscapes all the way, diverse culture, and high pass crossings boasting panoramic views – this is another excellent trek.
5. Druk Path Trek, Mountain Kingdoms
The incredible Druk Path Trek, run by UK-based Mountain Kingdoms, takes you on a slightly more relaxing trek for five days. You will not fail to take amazing photographs on this trek as you experience the magnificent high mountain scenery and the many cultural attractions of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Punakha Dzong.
This is one of the oldest trails with such varied scenery and, of course, superb mountain views. It’s worth noting the extras that make this trek so great – the well-appointed hotels and quality of accommodation along the way, as well as the ever so friendly yet professional staff that accompany the group you.
6. Luxury Trek in Upper Dolpo, Explore Dolpo
In the isolated mid-western part of Nepal, you will find the Dolpo – one of 77 districts of Nepal. It is divided into two regions – Upper and Lower Dolpo and remains one of the most untouched and naturally picturesque regions to explore.
This seven-day Luxury Trek in Upper Dolpo begins with a flight directly into Dolpo, and then a luxurious pony trek takes you on your adventure. It is one of the easiest treks as there is little walking involved. However, still considered moderate due to its elevation as the trek goes up to Kang La Pass at 5240m. Winding through the villages of Doplo and culminating in Phksundo Lake, this wonderful tour concludes with a flight back to Kathmandu.
7. Chitwan National Park & Poon Hill Trek, Wild Frontiers
Starting in Nepal’s capital city, the Chitwan National Park and Poon Hill Trek with Wild Frontiers commence as you touch down at Chitwan National Park, at the foot of the Himalayas. Such an incredible opportunity to enjoy a game drive in Nepal’s first national sanctuary, where you can witness crocodiles, rare rhinos, and if you are lucky, the incredible Bengal tiger.
Chitwan National Park is just the start of your trekking experience as you embark on a two-week trek over the Annapurna ranges, where you will witness the entire village of Patlekhet, hike along the Modi River and explore the orchid-filled forests. The trek ends in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu at the end of your adventure.
8. Manaslu Region Trek, Explore-Share
Meaning ‘intellect or soul,’ Manaslu is the 8th highest mountain in the world. The Manaslu Region Trek takes you on a slightly less frequented mountain than Everest and Annapurna, and because of its lack of visitors, it is a more remote hike where you will experience completely unspoiled solitude. It’s a 21-day, more slow-paced option and gives you the opportunity to discover some of its most stunning spots; from open countryside to deep snow and forests, you will experience it all.
9. Laya Gasa, The Mountain Company
The Laya Gasa Trek by The Mountain Company stretches across northern Bhutan along the border with Tibet. It starts near Paro and then traverses four Himalayan mountain passes before arriving at the village of Laya. The trek continues down to the remarkable hot springs. Then it’s on to Ghasa, the Punakha Valley, and a drive to Thimpu.
Located in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan is known for its rich cultural heritage and steep mountainsides, remote valleys, and holy places. Not only will you witness the most impressive scenery, but a number of Dzongs (fortress monasteries) dotted along the Tibetan border. On this trek, you cannot help but be immersed in Bhutanese Buddhist culture and village life – it is a great all-around experience.
10. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, Adventure Alternative
For the experienced trekking connoisseur, this tour consists of 21 actual days of trekking but is 26 days in total. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes you through what is a deeply remote region of Nepal that has only recently been opened to tourism. Kangchenjunga is actually the second-least climbed mountain of the eight-thousand that exists and is a quiet trek where you are unlikely to come across many people except for at the lodges. The best times to trek are April through to June when the weather is a bit more reliable and slightly warmer – it is then that you are most likely to experience some of the most splendid, rich, and varied alpine scenery in the world.
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