Less Crowded Treks in Nepal(2024 )

Nepal is renowned worldwide as a trekker's paradise, with famous routes like the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp attracting thousands of visitors each year. However, beyond these iconic trails lie many less-traveled trekking options that provide opportunities to experience the country's stunning mountain scenery and rich cultures away from the crowds. Some of them are:

 

Kajin Sara Trek:

Maximum Elevation: 5,002 m
No of Days: 4 Night 5 Day
Walking Hours: 6 - 7 hours per day

Photo: Way to Kajin Sara Lake

The Kajin Sara Trek is a less crowded trekking adventure through Nepal's Manang district. The Kajin Sara Lake at an altitude of 5,002 m was recently discovered in 2019. So, the journey to the highest glacial lake in the world is still isolated.

It starts with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Besishar via public bus and Besisahar to Chame by Jeep. The journey from Pokhara to Chame is also common for Annapurna Circuit Trek. From Chame we start trekking through pine forests, challenging terrain with limited water resources, breathtaking cliff views, and the heart-shaped Love Lake. The highlight is reaching the remote, pristine Kajin Sara Lake surrounded by rocks and snowy peaks, offering otherworldly views of mountains like Lamjung Himal and Koto Peak. Perfect for experienced hikers who prefer camping over tea houses on one of Nepal's most isolated trail.

Kajin Sara Trek Highlights:

• Trek to the highest lake in Nepal, the Kajin Sara Lake, discovered in 2019 and situated at an altitude of 5,002 meters (16,411 feet). 
• Experience one of the most isolated and pristine trekking trails in Nepal.
• The perfect trek for experienced hikers who prefer camping, over staying in tea houses.
• Enjoy otherworldly views of the Lamjung Himal, Koto Peak, and many more snow-capped mountains from the Kajin Sara Lake.

 

Bhimtang Trek (Mini Manaslu):

Maximum Elevation: 4,100 m
No of Days: 6 Night 7 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

Photo: View of Manaslu from Bhimtang

Bhimtang is a special place on the way to the Manaslu area. It's less visited where trekkers often stop overnight after hiking from Larkya Pass and Tsum Valley. Words can't truly capture Bhimtang's beauty - placed near mighty Mount Manaslu, with fresh mountain air and untouched nature leaving you peacefully in awe.

This isolated trek lets you soak in stunning views of snowy peaks like Manaslu, Kangaru, Huunchuli, and Ponkar Lake.

Bhimtang trek Highlights:

• Besides mountains, Bhimtang hosts Ponkar Lake famed for stunning scenery at 4100m elevation. The lake on one side and Ponkar glacier on the other create breathtaking natural vistas.
• Ponkar Lake makes a perfect day hike from Bhimtang, around 1.5 hours through mustard fields, meadows, and grazing yaks.
• Though part of the Manaslu Circuit, Bhimtang itself is considered worthwhile for a dedicated trek to experience this Manaslu region gem.

 

Kori Himal Trek:

Maximum Elevation: 3,800 m
No of Days: 6 Night 7 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

Photo: Surreal view from Kori HImal

The Kori Himal Trek in the Annapurna region is a new trekking route that offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and excellent landscapes. The hike to Kori Hill is as isolated as it is beautiful. 

The viewpoint at Kori Hill provides a stunning view of Annapurna IV, the villages of Tangting, Sikles, and the Pokhara Valley. The hilltop itself has a beautiful grassland that is covered in snow during the winter season. The trek is relatively easy, and the natural beauty is scenic and unspoiled.

Kori Himal Trek Highlights:

• The highest point of the trek is at the top of Kori Hill, which stands at an elevation of 3,800 meters (12,467 feet).
• The hilltop serves as a central viewpoint, offering magnificent views of valleys and mountains.
• You'll get incredible views of the Annapurna range, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu.
• Kori Hill is adorned with a lush, verdant meadow that also serves as a grazing land for sheep.
• You might spot wildlife such as the Danfe (Himalayan Monal), Himalayan Tahr, and Musk deer.
• The trek takes you through stony steps, oak forests, and green grasslands.
• Along the way, you'll see 6 to 7 different species of rhododendron.

 

Kapuche Lake Trek:

Maximum Elevation: 2,546 m
No of Days: 3 Night 4 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

Photo: Kapuche Lake

The Kapuche Lake Trek is one of the best emerging trekking routes in Nepal. With its unique location and pristine natural surroundings, the trail is remote and less crowded than other popular trails. 

If you're looking for a trekking route that offers grand scenery, an isolated lifestyle, and a rarely hiked trail, then Capuche has much to offer. The Lowest Glacier Lake lies to the northeast of Sikles village in the Kaski district. It is a short trek that begins in Pokhara and goes through several villages and hills. Although this trekking route was recently discovered and opened for visitors, it has been slowly gaining popularity due to its natural beauty and unique trekking experience.

Kapuche Lake Trek Highlights:

• Enjoy clear and up-close views of the majestic Annapurna II (26,041 feet), Annapurna IV (24,690 feet), and Lamjung Himal (22,911 feet).
• Experience the unique culture, customs, and traditions of the largest Gurung community in Nepal at Sikles village.
• The area around the lake is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including lush forests and alpine meadows.
• Explore the lowest-altitude glacier lake in Nepal.
• Hike through verdant vegetation, rhododendron forests, and terraced fields.
• It is an easy hike, suitable for people of all ages.

 

Hidden Lake Trek: 

Maximum Elevation: 4,380 m
No of Days: 4 Night 5 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

Photo: View from Podhe Kharka during Hidden Lake Trek

The Hidden Lake Trek is a newly opened trekking route in Nepal's Annapurna Region that takes you to an unexplored area away from the crowds and into the heart of pristine nature.

The uncharted trails of the Hidden Lake offer you a unique sensation and a sense of achievement as you trek into rarely-visited paths. The major attractions of this trek are the spectacular views of Annapurna South, Fishtail, and Hiunchuli mountains, as well as the opportunity to trek to the Hidden Lake itself - a rare experience that only a few have witnessed.

Hidden Lake Trekking Highlights:

• Explore the traditional villages of Ghandruk, Tadapani, Dobato, Pode Kharka, Jhinu Danda, and Chhomrong.
• Witness stunning views of more than 30 snow-capped mountains (over 6,000 meters high) from Mulde Peak.
• Hike through vibrant rhododendron forests.
• Enjoy up-close mountain views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Fishtail from Pode Kharka.
• The major highlight is the religious Hidden Lake, also known as Tridevi Tal.
• Experience traditional Nepali culture in the Gurung villages and interact with domesticated yaks.
• Trek through remote terrain in the heart of the Nepali Himalayas, untouched by many.

 

Four Peaks Trek:

Maximum Elevation: 4,600 m
No of Days: 9 Night 10 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

The Four Peaks Trek combines several short treks to observe four beautiful peaks - Mohare Danda, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Khopra Danda, and Mulde Peak - in one journey on specially designed trails. Being a low-altitude trek, it's suitable for all ages and beginners with a low risk of altitude sickness. Highlights include mesmerizing Mohare Danda views, breathtaking mountains and Poon Hill sunrise, Annapurna range and pristine Khayer Lake vistas from Khopra Danda, over 25 Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks from Mulde Peak, experiencing Gurung culture, natural landscapes, Himalayan views, and Ghandruk village. You'll love the majestic mountain vistas from all peaks, rich biodiversity, lush rhododendron hills, cultural villages, stunning sunrises, a glimpse into Gurung/Magar life, and serene Khayer Lake at 4,660m.

Four Peaks Trek Highlights:

• Majestic Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other mountain views from all four peaks.
• Rich biodiversity, lush vegetation, rhododendron hills, and cultural villages.
• Stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill and other viewpoints.
• A glimpse into Gurung and Magar cultures.
• Pristine and serene Khayer Lake at 4,660m altitude.

 

Dhorpatan with Gurja Khani Trek: 

Maximum Elevation: 4,493 m
No of Days: 7 Night 8 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

The Dhorpatan Hunting Region Trek with Gurja Khani offers an off-the-beaten-path, a moderately challenging trail through Nepal's unscathed western region. This 6-day trek takes you through the country's only hunting reserve, abundant with wildlife like snow leopards, musk deer, and red pandas. 

Witness stunning Dhaulagiri and Annapurna views, interact with friendly Magar locals, and explore the grasslands and Uttar Ganga river on horseback. With fewer than 100 foreigners visiting annually, it's a budget-friendly, uncrowded adventure to witness Nepal's pristine nature and elusive animals.

Dhorpatan with Gurja Khani Trek Highlights:

• Trek Nepal's only hunting reserve filled with rare wildlife
• Spot animals like snow leopards, musk deer, red pandas, blue sheep
• Incredible close-up views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and western peaks
• Interact with curious Magar locals in unspoiled villages
• Explore colorful grasslands and river valleys on horseback
• Affordable off-the-beaten trek away from crowds

 

Nar Phu Trek:

Maximum Elevation: 5,416 m
No of Days: 9 Night 10 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

The Nar Phu Trek is an extraordinary journey to one of Nepal's most remote areas near Tibet. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you to the once-forbidden Nar and Phu Valleys, offering a unique blend of ancient Buddhist culture and raw, unspoiled Himalayas. Trek through diverse landscapes from greenery to deserts and rocky terrain. Cross the challenging Kang La Pass. Visit ancient Nar and Phu Gompas (monasteries) depicting the region's Tibetan history, and soak in mesmerizing views of peaks like Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho, Manaslu, and more. Fewer crowds than popular routes allow deep cultural immersion in Nepal's 2nd oldest civilization.

Nar Phu Trek Highlights:

• Remote exploration of restricted Nar and Phu Valleys in Annapurna
• Cross the challenging high-altitude Kang La Pass
• Trek through diverse landscapes from green valleys to deserts
• Visit ancient Nar and Phu Gompas reflecting Tibetan Buddhist heritage
• Incredible views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho, Manaslu peaks
• Less crowded than popular treks for an isolated experience
• Immerse in the ancient culture of Nepal's 2nd oldest civilization

 

Upper Mustang Trek:

Maximum Elevation: 3,840 m
No of Days: 11 Night 12 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

The Upper Mustang Trek takes you to the remote, arid "Forbidden Kingdom of Lho", an ancient Buddhist kingdom beyond the Annapurna Range. This isolated region, geologically and culturally part of the Tibetan plateau, offers a unique treeless landscape of colorful rocky trails and valleys surrounded by snow-capped peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. 

Explore mysterious caves, and historic monasteries, and experience the untouched Tibetan culture and lifestyle of the Sherpas. Marvel at the hardship of mountain living as you traverse this former kingdom's wind-eroded canyons and cliffs, savoring local apple brews and cuisine along the way. It's a rare chance to venture into Nepal's unspoiled, undisturbed Himalayan region.

Upper Mustang Trek Highlights:

• Trek to the remote, arid "Forbidden Kingdom" of Upper Mustang
• Geologically and culturally, it is an extension of the Tibetan plateau
• Unique treeless, colorful rocky landscape and wind-eroded valleys
• Explore ancient caves, and monasteries, and experience untouched Tibetan culture
• Views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and other Himalayan peaks
• Taste local apple brews and cuisine of this former Buddhist kingdom
• Experience the hardships of life in this isolated, unspoiled region

 

Tsum Valley Trek:

Maximum Elevation: 3,700 m
No of Days: 15 Night 16 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

Opened to trekkers only in 2008, the Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal's most remote treks. This sacred valley in northern Gorkha lies against the magnificent backdrop of the Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal ranges. 

With fewer crowds than even the Manaslu Circuit, it offers an untouched experience of historically rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, pristine flora and fauna. The trail leads to the Tibetan border, where locals have close cultural ties and trade links. The valley's Tibetan inhabitants follow Buddhism, with monasteries and chortens reflecting their centuries-old traditions. Believed to be a meditation site of Buddhist saint Milarepa, it serves as a holy pilgrimage. While basic, homestays allow immersive cultural experiences.

Tsum Valley Trek Highlights:

• One of Nepal's most remote and sacred valleys near Tibet
• Magnificent views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal ranges
• Centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, chortens and culture
• Pristine flora and fauna in this off-the-beaten trek
• Homestays for deep cultural immersion with locals
• Few crowds compared to Manaslu's popular Annapurna Circuit
• Milarepa's meditation site, revered by Buddhist pilgrims

 

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek: 

Maximum Elevation: 5,004 m
No of Days: 15 Night 16 Day
Walking Hours: 5 - 6 hours per day

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek involves an adventurous journey trekking around the remote Dhaulagiri massif, the seventh-highest mountain range in the world at 8,167 meters. Traversing suspension bridges and remote Magar and Sherpa villages, you'll reach dizzying heights of 5,360m at French Pass and 5,234m at Dhampus Pass for stunning views of 23 snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna and more. The challenging trail takes you to base camps like Italian Base Camp with amazing Dhaulagiri vistas. It requires a strong sense of adventure to tackle the dramatic, contrasting terrain of this difficult but immensely rewarding trek through Nepal's most remote Himalayan wilderness.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Highlights:

• Trek the rugged, remote Dhaulagiri massif, 6th highest mountain range
• Cross-high passes like French (5,360m) and Dhampus (5,234m)
• Stunning views of 23 peaks including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna
• Experience life in remote Magar and Sherpa villages
• Trek to amazing viewpoints like Dhaulagiri and Italian Base Camps
• One of Nepal's most difficult but rewarding wilderness treks
• Dramatic, contrasting beauty of Nepal's remote Himalayan landscape