5 Popular Base Camp treks in Nepal You should Go
Nepal, the land of the Himalayas, offers several beautiful base camp treks. The country is gifted with eight highest peaks above 8,000 m. The majority of the trek leads trekkers to the base camp of the towering peaks that are renowned all over the world. The base camps of the mountains are famous for trekking and climbing.
While climbing these peaks is exhilarating and rewarding it is a challenge that only few can achieve. However, adventurers can still be at the base camp can the summit and get clear views of the snowy peaks. At the base camps, you can see many climbers, especially at the peak climbing seasons who are preparing for the ascent. The base camps are the training grounds for the mountaineering expeditions.
The trekking enthusiasts can be at the base camp of legendary peaks, and witness its grandeur by choosing the best base camp treks that offer breathtaking landscapes, intriguing cultural exploration opportunities, and a true sense of adventure in the Himalayas.
5 Popular Base Camp treks in Nepal
Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek draws several adventurers from around the world. It is the world's most famous base camp trek. The travelers begin the journey trekking from Lukla, a picturesque Himalayan town. To reach Lukla the travelers take a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu.
The trail leads the trekkers through pristine Sagarmatha National Park. The trek presents beautiful views of snowy peaks like Mount Everest, Thamserku, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and many more. Likewise, the traditional Sherpa villages and ancient monasteries en route present several opportunities to experience the rich culture of the Khumbu Region.
The trekkers can witness the spectacular scenery and also feel a sense of thrill and achievement when they make it to the Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). The trek rewards visitors with the awe inspiring beauty of mountains. The feeling of standing right at the foot of the highest peak in the world is incredible.
Trekkers generally complete the trek in 10 to 14 days. The trek is accessible and the routes are well established with quality lodging facilities. With its landscapes and cultural richness, the Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular base camp trek in Nepal and on a bucket list adventure for every trekking enthusiast.
The Everest Region is also popular for peak climbing. Many climbers combine the Everest Base Camp trek with the Island Peak Climbing which can be completed in a duration of 16 to 17 days. If you are looking for a peak climbing adventure in Nepal, then you may combine both of these exhilarating adventures. Other popular peak-climbing adventures in the Everest Region include Mera Peak Climbing and Lobuche Peak Climbing.
If you have limited time you may also opt for the Everest Helicopter Tour which is the fastest and most convenient way to witness the grandeur of the Everest Region in a single day. Everest Region offers a wide range of activities and adventurers can choose one according to their preference and timeframe.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp is a renowned destination among trekking enthusiasts worldwide. During this trek, you can gaze upon beautiful views of the Annapurna massifs. Generally, the trek can be completed within a duration of 10 to 14 days.
The trekkers pass through the tranquil, lush rhododendron forests, picturesque villages and terraced farmlands during the trek. In addition, experiencing the culture and warm hospitality of local people along the route further enriches the journey.
As trekkers ascend toward the base camp, the enchanting views of various landscapes can be seen. The majestic Annapurna Base Camp lies at 4,130 meters.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is graded as a moderately challenging journey. The trek is highly preferred by adventure enthusiasts because of the exceptional scenery of the alluring Himalayan landscapes.
Some of the most famous scenic spots you can explore during the journey include Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Himalaya Hotel, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Ghandruk and many more. It is the most popular base camp trek in Nepal with beautiful views, and a rich culture, that provides an exhilarating experience.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek
Manaslu Base Camp Trek, also popularly known as Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exciting Himalayan adventure that presents stunning views of diverse Himalayan landscapes. The trek presents a culturally enriching journey. This trek's duration generally ranges between 13 to 15 days.
The trek has grown in popularity because of its pristine natural environment, varied geography and its preserved culture and history. The trek passes through dense forests and charming villages. The beautiful views of mountains like Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and many more can be seen along the route. In addition, crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) is one of the thrilling highlights of this trek.
The trek begins with a scenic road journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and passes via the Manaslu Conservation Area. The trekkers generally visit Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) on their acclimatization day in Samagaun. The authentic cultural experiences combined with natural beauty make Manaslu Base Camp Trek one of the most immersive Himalayan adventures.
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp is one of the remote yet strikingly beautiful treks in Nepal. This scenic trek has recently drawn the attention of adventurers because of the exceptional scenery. The trek offers mesmerizing views of the peaks such as Mount Everest (8,848.86 m) and Mount Lhotse (8,516 m).
Likewise, the trek passes through the Makalu Barun National Park, which amazes its visitors with varied ecosystems, rare wild animals, and unique landscapes. The views of waterfalls, glaciers, and rivers along the routes are spectacular. In addition, you will pass through rural villages which offer the trekkers an insight into the traditional culture and unique Himalayan lifestyle.
One of the major highlights of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is hiking to the Higher Viewpoint (5,738 m). This viewpoint offers mesmerizing sights of rugged Himalayan terrains. The Makalu region is still relatively unexplored so trekkers can have off beaten path experience. However, its distinct landscapes have managed to attract the attention of several trekkers making it one of the destinations on the bucket list of many adventurers.
The trek's total duration is about 12 to 14 days. It combines natural beauty, rich cultural experiences and high altitude adventure and is among the best base camp treks in Nepal.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is among the most scenic Himalayan adventures in Nepal. This trek is renowned as the Mardi Himal Trek. The trek’s popularity has grown a lot in recent times because of its short duration, diverse landscapes and interesting cultural encounters. Many trekkers complete the Mardi Himal Trek in a duration of 6 to 9 days.
The trek offers stunning close-up views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Mardi, Mt. Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. In addition, the trek passes through spectacular places like Pothana, Forest Camp, Low Camp and High Camp. The trekkers can get glimpses of local villages, traditional farms and their lifestyle along the route which is fascinating.
Hiking to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m for the best views of Himalayan vistas is one of the key highlights of this trek. Trekking to Mardi Himal is ideal for those looking for a moderate and rewarding adventure that offers enchanting views of the Himalayan landscapes and several cultural opportunities.
