Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners
Trekking in Nepal doesn’t always mean weeks of rugged walking through high-altitude terrain. For those who are new to the mountains or have limited time, there are many Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners that offer breathtaking views, local culture, and the perfect introduction to Himalayan adventure.
Whether you’re seeking panoramic mountain vistas, peaceful villages, or gentle hiking trails, this detailed 2026 guide covers the Top 10 Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners complete with itineraries, permits, and insider tips.
Why Choose Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners?
Short treks are ideal for travelers who:
Have limited vacation time
Are new to trekking
Want easy to moderate hiking experiences
Prefer lower altitudes
Want to explore local culture and nature in a few days
The best part is that these Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners still deliver incredible scenery — from the Annapurna and Everest ranges to Langtang and Helambu valleys.
1. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Duration: 4–5 Days
Region: Annapurna Region
Max Altitude: 3,210m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is among the most popular Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners. It offers a magical sunrise view over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, lush forests, and welcoming Gurung villages.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1.5 hrs) and trek to Tikhedhunga (4 hrs)
Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani (6 hrs) through rhododendron forests
Day 3: Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise, then trek to Tadapani (6 hrs)
Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk village (4 hrs)
Day 5: Return trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
Highlights
Sunrise view from Poon Hill
Gurung and Magar village hospitality
Short and beginner-friendly route
Permits
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card – NPR 2,000
2. Langtang Valley Trek
Duration: 6–7 Days
Region: Langtang National Park
Max Altitude: 4,984m (Tserko Ri)
Difficulty: Moderate
The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the most rewarding Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners who want alpine beauty and cultural experiences close to Kathmandu.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (7 hrs)
Day 2: Trek to Lama Hotel (6 hrs)
Day 3: Trek to Langtang Village (5 hrs)
Day 4: Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (4 hrs)
Day 5: Hike to Tserko Ri for panoramic mountain views
Day 6: Trek back to Lama Hotel
Day 7: Return to Syabrubesi and drive to Kathmandu
Highlights
Authentic Tamang culture
Majestic view of Langtang Lirung
Peaceful trails and yak pastures
Permits
Langtang National Park Entry – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card – NPR 2,000
3. Mardi Himal Trek
Duration: 5–6 Days
Region: Annapurna Region
Max Altitude: 4,500m
Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re looking for a quieter route with panoramic views, the Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most stunning Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande and trek to Australian Camp
Day 2: Trek to Forest Camp (6 hrs)
Day 3: Trek to Low Camp (5 hrs)
Day 4: Trek to High Camp (4 hrs)
Day 5: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and return to Low Camp
Day 6: Descend to Siding village and drive to Pokhara
Highlights
Close-up views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna
Quiet and less crowded trails
Comfortable teahouse experience
Permits
ACAP Permit – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card – NPR 2,000
4. Helambu Trek
Duration: 5–6 Days
Region: Langtang Region
Max Altitude: 3,600m
Difficulty: Easy
The Helambu Trek is an excellent choice for travelers looking for Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners near Kathmandu. It offers an authentic glimpse into Sherpa and Tamang life.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to Sundarijal and trek to Chisapani
Day 2: Trek to Kutumsang (6 hrs)
Day 3: Trek to Tharepati (6 hrs)
Day 4: Trek to Tarkeghyang (5 hrs)
Day 5: Trek to Sermathang (5 hrs)
Day 6: Trek to Melamchi Bazaar and drive back to Kathmandu
Highlights
Close to Kathmandu
Beautiful monasteries and Sherpa villages
Moderate altitude and pleasant trails
Permits
Langtang National Park Entry Permit – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card – NPR 2,000
5. Dhampus – Australian Camp Trek
Duration: 2–3 Days
Region: Annapurna Foothills
Max Altitude: 2,100m
Difficulty: Easy
The Dhampus – Australian Camp Trek is a perfect weekend trek and one of the easiest Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners around Pokhara.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to Phedi and trek to Dhampus (3 hrs)
Day 2: Trek to Australian Camp (2 hrs), explore, and stay overnight
Day 3: Descend to Kande and drive back to Pokhara
Highlights
Breathtaking sunrise and sunset views
Great for families and short-time visitors
Easy access from Pokhara
Permits
ACAP Permit – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card (optional for short duration)
6. Everest View Trek
Duration: 6–7 Days
Region: Everest (Khumbu) Region
Max Altitude: 3,867m
Difficulty: Moderate
Everest Base Camp
The Everest View Trek offers an incredible experience of the Everest region without long walking days. It’s one of the most scenic Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners.
Itinerary
Day 1: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (6 hrs)
Day 3: Acclimatization hike to Hotel Everest View
Day 4: Trek to Khumjung village and return to Namche
Day 5: Trek to Lukla
Day 6: Fly back to Kathmandu
Highlights
View of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam
Cultural insight into Sherpa life
Scenic mountain flights
Permits
Sagarmatha National Park Entry – NPR 3,000
Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit – NPR 2,000
7. Nagarkot – Dhulikhel Trek
Duration: 2 Days
Region: Kathmandu Valley Rim
Max Altitude: 2,175m
Difficulty: Easy
For travelers with very little time, the Nagarkot – Dhulikhel Trek is one of the shortest Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners with Himalayan views and cultural experiences.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to Nagarkot, hike around the viewpoint
Day 2: Trek to Dhulikhel (4–5 hrs) and drive back to Kathmandu
Highlights
Beautiful sunrise and sunset views
Authentic Newari villages
Accessible from the capital
Permits
No permits required
8. Khopra Danda Trek
Duration: 6–7 Days
Region: Annapurna Region
Max Altitude: 3,660m
Difficulty: Moderate
The Khopra Danda Trek is an emerging favorite among Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners who want solitude, cultural charm, and spectacular views.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri
Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani
Day 3: Trek to Swanta Village
Day 4: Trek to Khopra Danda
Day 5: Hike to Khayer Lake (optional)
Day 6: Descend to Tatopani and enjoy hot springs
Day 7: Drive back to Pokhara
Highlights
Panoramic view of Dhaulagiri
Authentic rural experience
Fewer tourists and peaceful trails
Permits
ACAP Permit – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card – NPR 2,000
9. Chisapani – Nagarkot Trek
Duration: 3 Days
Region: Kathmandu Valley
Max Altitude: 2,175m
Difficulty: Easy
The Chisapani – Nagarkot Trek is a short, peaceful route ideal for families and beginners. It’s one of the most convenient Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners close to the capital.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to Sundarijal and trek to Chisapani (5 hrs)
Day 2: Trek to Nagarkot (6 hrs)
Day 3: Enjoy sunrise views and drive back to Kathmandu
Highlights
Forest walks through Shivapuri National Park
Great mountain views from Nagarkot
Perfect weekend escape
Permits
Shivapuri National Park Entry – NPR 1,000
10. Panchase Trek
Duration: 3–4 Days
Region: Near Pokhara
Max Altitude: 2,500m
Difficulty: Easy
The Panchase Trek is one of the most underrated Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners, combining spiritual significance and stunning mountain views.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Bhumdi and trek to Panchase Bhanjyang
Day 2: Hike to Panchase Hill for sunrise and return to Bhanjyang
Day 3: Trek to Bhadaure village
Day 4: Return to Pokhara
Highlights
360° views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre
Easy and family-friendly
Beautiful forests and local culture
Permits
ACAP Permit – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card – NPR 2,000
Essential Tips for Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners
Best Seasons: March–May and September–November
Physical Preparation: Light exercise or hiking practice helps
Guides and Porters: Recommended for safety and navigation
Trekking Gear: Warm clothes, trekking shoes, and a water purifier
Accommodation: Teahouses with basic facilities on all routes
Travel Insurance: Always get insurance covering altitude trekking
Trekking Permits and Costs (2026)
Trekking Permits in Nepal 2026
Most Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners require:
TIMS Card: NPR 2,000
Conservation Area or National Park Entry: NPR 3,000
You can obtain permits at:
Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
Checkpoints near trek entry points
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the easiest short trek in Nepal?
The Dhampus–Australian Camp and Nagarkot–Dhulikhel treks are among the easiest for beginners.
2. Do I need a guide for short treks?
While optional, a local guide enhances safety and helps with navigation and culture.
3. What should I pack for Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners?
Comfortable trekking shoes, warm layers, sunscreen, water bottle, and basic first aid.
4. Can I do these treks in winter?
Yes, many are accessible year-round, but December–February can be cold at higher altitudes.
5. How much do these treks cost?
Short treks usually cost between $200–$600, including permits, accommodation, and food.
Nepal’s beauty lies not just in Everest but also in the countless scenic trails that welcome first-time trekkers. These Short Treks in Nepal for Beginners offer the perfect mix of mountain adventure, local culture, and natural peace.
From the sunrise at Poon Hill to the quiet trails of Khopra Danda, each journey creates unforgettable memories no matter how short. So lace up your boots, grab your permit, and take your first Himalayan step in 2026!
