5 Best Low-Altitude Treks in the Himalayas

The Nepali Himalayas are the ultimate destination for any mountain lover. With rugged trails to Everest, Annapurna and beyond, the country offers some of the most accessible and incredible treks in the Himalayas. Thousands of trekkers flock to this trekker’s paradise to experience the ‘trip of a lifetime’. That’s because nowhere else in the world can you trek for days around incredible mountains, safe in the knowledge that a warm meal, bed and shower await you at your designated hotel.

If this sounds appealing to you, here is a selection of the 5 best low-altitude treks in the Himalayas.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Poon Hill is a natural amphitheater-like view from which you can get a close-up view of more than 20 peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, also known as the Annapurna Panorama trek, is one of the most popular and relatively easy treks in western Nepal. Depending on your time constraints, the trek can last anywhere between 4 and 7 days. It starts with an hour-long drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, where we will hike along a dirt road that will take us to the picturesque village of Ghorepani. Poon Hill is a three-hour hike from Ghorepani, usually in the morning to watch the sunrise. You will trek through several Gurung and Magar settlements, the trek also offers excellent and unique cultural performances.

Everest Panorama/ Tengboche Monastery Trek

Don’t worry if you don’t have the time, energy or enthusiasm to reach the base camp to see the best views of Everest. Everest Panorama Trekking or Tengboche Monastery Trekking will give you all the facilities in less time and money. It is the most popular trek in the Khumbu region due to its outstanding natural surroundings and cultural beauty. This trek, which lasts for 5 to 10 days, starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The rugged route takes you through dense forests, suspension bridges over the Dudhkoshi, and several traditional Sherpa villages. It passes through historical destinations such as Namche Bazaar and Khumjung. However, the main attraction of the trek is the panoramic views of peaks such as Everest, Cho Oyu, Amadablam, Island Peak, and Nuptse.

Langtang Valley Trek

Also known as the ‘Himalaya’s best-kept secret, the Langtang Valley Trek is 19 miles north of the Kathmandu Valley, but it feels like they are worlds apart. It is also the closest Himalayan region to the capital. Although lesser known and less trekked, the region has emerged quickly from the devastating ruins of the 2015 earthquake. The 8- to 10-day trek starts from Syabrubesi in Rasuwa and reaches the villages of Chilime and Tatopani. The route passes through green forests, yak farms, and cheese factories that add an extra element to the trek. However, the epic views of the surrounding peaks like Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Massif, and Langtang Ri are the main attractions.

Lower Mustang Trek

Also known as the ‘Land Beyond the Himalayas’, Mustang is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. The region was a forbidden state until 1990 and was also an officially recognized state. Thus, in addition to the spectacular natural surroundings, the region boasts of great historical and religious significance. The 5- to 10-day Jomsom Muktinath trek starts from Jomsom and ends at Nayapul in Pokhara via Muktinath, Kagbeni, Punhill, and Nayapul. Since this area falls under the rain shadow zone, it does not rain until late, making it possible to trek even during the monsoon. Also, due to its moderate altitude, it is suitable for trekking in early winter. During the trek, you can enjoy panoramic views of peaks including the Nilgiris, Annapurna Massif, and Dhaulagiri Massif.

Dolakha Kalinchowk Trek

This is a brand new trek and the shortest one on our list. The Kalinchowk trek in Dolakha includes the revered Hindu temple of Kalinchowk Bhagwati located in the eastern part of Dolakha. If you do not have time to trek to extreme corners, this is the best option for you – short, fun, and adventurous. The trailhead of the Kalinchowk trek can be reached in half a day from the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. It passes through a high ridgeline that offers beautiful and mesmerizing views of the Annapurna range. After trekking through two small villages, you climb the mountain and reach Kuri before reaching the Kalinchowk temple. From here, you can enjoy views of Jugal Himal, Gauri Shankar, etc.