Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the top remote trekking adventures in the Himalayan country for trekking enthusiasts who want to experience off-beaten adventures on the mountain. This region is also one of the top restricted area trekking adventures in the country that has only been accessible to tourists since 1992. This exciting remote trekking adventure takes you across the isolated region of the central Himalayan range in the country, providing the opportunity to relish the pure wilderness of the region untouched by modernization.
This circumnavigating adventure of the eight-highest snow-clad wonder on the planet, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters), is pretty close to the mainstream Annapurna region. Thus, during this exhilarating Himalayan trek, you will traverse across protected areas of both the Annapurna and Manaslu regions, i.e., the Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area.
Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you on trails close to the Tibetan border. You can expect to explore beautiful high-altitude remote settlements mostly influenced by Tibetan culture. This thrilling off the beaten path treks in Nepal endeavor is ideal for trekkers who want to experience the true wilderness of the Himalayas in a short period without steering off too far from the urban regions.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Unlike other short remote trekking adventures to the Himalayas, the trekking adventures in the Kanchenjunga region are considered to be the most authentic off-beaten trekking experience. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, which takes place in the far eastern part of the country, follows completely secluded trails through the Himalayan and circles the gigantic Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), the third highest peak in the world. This mountain peak was considered the highest peak in the world until the official crowning of the title to Mt. Everest (8,848 meters) in 1865.
This iconic off the beaten path treks in Nepal, which can last up to 27 to 30 days, is considered the number 1 remote Himalayan trekking adventure in the Himalayas. The trekking route of this remote adventure moves along the border of Tibet and Sikkim; thus, you can expect a great fusion of unique cultures and traditions in the settlements you pass through. Here, experiencing the raw state of picturesque nature and the unspoiled culture traditions of the remote high-altitude settlements that have been passed down for centuries is a distinct experience.
Your trekking trail will also pass through the restricted and protected areas of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (established in 1997), which is home to more than 250 species of Himalayan birds and endangered wildlife. This lengthy and fulfilling Himalayan journey is perfect for trekkers who want to reconnect with nature, moving farther from the mainstream crowd and all the modernity to experience both nature and high-altitude human settlements at their unspoiled stage.
Upper Dolpo Trek
The Dolpo region in the mid-western part of the Himalayas is popular as the home of the deepest lake in the country. This off the beaten path treks in Nepal also explores the remote, isolated, and restricted part of the Himalayas that was only open for tourism since 1989. Considered one of the most remote parts of western Nepal, Upper Dolpo Trek
Ensures an incredible trekking experience exploring the complete wilderness and isolated settlements of the region that still value the ancient culture and norms.
Your journey on the secluded part of western Nepal will take you across the Shey Phoksundo National Park, and you will be able to relish the tranquility of the pristine Shey Phoksundo Lake, which has a maximum depth of 145 meters (475.72 feet). Besides the unique cultural blend of restricted areas and the rich bi-diversity of the Himalayan national park, this adventure is famous as the journey across the passes. You will have the opportunity to navigate across several thrilling passes in the region, like Nadalo La Pass, Sela La Pass, Jeng La Pass, and others, during this excursion.
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek si another popular trekking prospect of the remote far eastern part of the Nepali Himalayas. This remarkable trekking adventure to the base of the pristine Mt. Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain peak in the world at an elevation of 8,485 meters (27,838 feet) across the fascinating off-beaten path. Unlike other trekking adventures, this journey to the foothills of the glorious Makalu is less traversed; this journey will not only promise you an incredible rugged landscape navigating opportunity but also an unforgettable serene experience to connect with the tranquility of nature.
Makalu Barun National Park, which was established in 1992, is one of the key highlights of this remote exploration. This Himalayan national park is spread over an area of 1,500 km2 (580 sq mi) is known for its incredible biodiversity. It is home to 440 recorded species of birds, 88 species of mammals, 315 species of butterflies, 16 species of amphibians, and 43 species of reptiles. You will also have a memorable cultural experience passing through the beautiful settlements of Rai, Limbu, Tamang, and Sherpa ethnic groups.
Upper Mustang Trek
Have you heard about the hidden kingdom of the Annapurna region? Upper Mustang, which is considered the hidden kingdom of the central Himalayas and known by different names like ‘The Forbidden Kingdom’ and ‘Kingdom of Lo’ is one of the most iconic and remarkable trekking destinations in the second mainstream trekking region of the country. Upper Mustang Trek, which takes you on an incredible journey to explore the hidden kingdom inside Annapurna region and the unique landscape covered by desert, is one of the most enticing off the beaten path treks in Nepal.
The Upper Mustang region was a restricted area for trekking before 1992, and this high Himalayan destination is considered one of the most preserved areas on the planet due to its isolation from the modern world. Besides experiencing the rugged Himalayan landscapes that comprise of unique rock formations and deserts, the true essence of the untamed wilderness and the Bon religion, which has been preserved by the communities for centuries, are the key highlights of this unique trekking experience.
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is another popular off the beaten path treks Nepal that takes you across the rugged landscapes of the third-most-popular trekking region in the country, Langtang Valley. Known as the Valley of Glacial Masses, this wonderful off-beaten trekking adventure in the Langtang takes you across the mainstream route of the rugged Langtang Valley Trek before diverting toward the pristine and sacred lake of the valley, Gosaikunda Lake (4,381 meters).
The Langtang Valley is generally known for its preserved cultural traditions, exceptional natural beauty, breathtaking vistas of the central Himalayan ranges, and the iconic rugged tails that navigate the remote parts of this sacred valley. However, the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek even pushes to further outskirts of the valley that preserved the Himalayan wilderness and eventually takes you to a sacred glacial lake.
The Gosaikunda Lake has great religious significance in both Hindu and Buddhist religions. Its origin is related to the supreme deity of Hindu religion, Lord Shiva, who formed the lake with his trident and drank the water from the lake to calm his burning throat after swallowing the poison that would have destroyed human civilization.
Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trek is an iconic trekking adventure in the Manaslu region, which is known for its remote and isolated trails. This restricted area trekking adventure in the Nepali Himalayas takes you through the fascinating trails close to the Annapurna region and the Tibetan border, unveiling the fascinating charms of the Himalayan wilderness. Due to the influence of the two regions, the cultural blend in this trekking trail is quite fascinating, and you will come across diverse settlements with their unique culture and traditions.
This off the beaten path treks in Nepal offers you insight into the beautiful Tsum Valley that is known for its Shyagya practice. After 1977, the Buddhist Magri Tsum community implemented a non-violence rule against all living beings. Since then, animals haven’t been hurt in this valley, which has been hugely influenced by the Tibetan-Buddhism practices that’s why this valley has earned the name the ‘Valley of Peace’.
Tsum Valley Trek is suitable for trekkers who want to add an incredible cultural experience and different ways of living to their off-beaten trekking adventure. If you want a lengthy version of the adventure in the Manaslu region, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek explores both major highlights of the secluded region.
Everest Three High Passes Trek
In case if you are looking for challenging adventures with more thrills, Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most prominent prospects in the Himalayas. Although this adventure takes place in the mainstream trekking destination of the country, the trail passes through most secluded regions of the valley, offering an ultimate off-beaten trekking experience. This thrilling journey for trekking enthusiasts who are looking for a bit of challenge takes you across some of the major Himalayan passes in the Everest region, like Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters), Cho la Pass (5,420 meters), and Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters).
During this exhilarating off the beaten path treks in Nepal, you will traverse across the enchanting landscapes of the region that houses the tallest peak in the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 meters), enjoying the epic Himalayan panorama of eastern Nepal. You will also traverse across the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sagarmatha National Park, in this off-beaten exploration and have the opportunity to relish the fascinating Sherpa culture, traditions, and hospitality of the elite mountain community who are known as founding pillars of the mountaineering industry.
Rara Lake Trek
In the list of off-beaten and restricted area trekking adventures in the Nepali Himalayas, Rara Lake Trek is one of the iconic exploration prospects that take you to the largest lake in Nepal. As this trekking adventure is set in the remote parts of western Nepal, you can expect to relish the purest form of the Himalayan wilderness and its essence during your trip. This restricted area was only open for tourism in 1976 and is considered a laid-back off the beaten path treks in Nepal that doesn’t take you to significant altitudes like other base camps and circuit trekkings.
Rara Lake, which is also known as the ‘Queen of Lakes’ has a water surface area of 10.8 km2 (4.2 sq mi) and changes color almost five times a day depending on the climatic conditions. So, the adventure to this marvelous wonder of nature is something that you will forever treasure. This exciting trekking journey will also take you across the protected Rara National Park and the beautiful remote Chhetri and Thakali settlements that have preserved their ancient culture and history.
Outline Itinerary of Rara Lake Trek
Day 01: Kathmandu (1,400 meters) arrival and hotel transfer
Day 02: Sightseeing day in Kathmandu Valley
Day 03: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 meters)
Day 04: Nepalgunj to Jumla (2,370 meters) flight
Day 05: Trekking from Jumla to Danphe Kanga (3,130 meters)
Day 06: Danphe Kanga to Chautha (2,770 meters)
Day 07: Chautha to Dhotu (3,190 meters) trek
Day 08: Trekking from Dhoti to Rara Lake (3,040 meters)
Day 09: Exploration and acclimatization day at Rara Lake
Day 10: Trek from Rara Lake to Ghorasain (3,271 meters)
Day 11: Ghorasain to Sinja (2,438 meters)
Day 12: Trekking from Sinja to Jaljala Chaur (3,350 meters)
Day 13: Trekking down to Jumla (2,370 meters) from Jaljala Chaur
Day 14: Flight from Jumla to Nepalgunj (150 meters) to Kathmandu
Day 15: Leisure day at Kathmandu
Day 16: Departure day
Nar Phu Valley Trek
Nar Phu Valley Trek is another popular off the beaten path treks in Nepal that takes you to completely isolated segments of the Annapurna region. This exciting trekking adventure in the remote part of the central Himalayas takes you on a memorable journey across the rugged trails, ancient settlements, and hidden valleys to the north of Annapurna. Nar and Phu Valleys, which are considered the distinct valleys in the Annapurna region, are unexplored and less traversed sections of the mainstream destination that are close to the Tibetan border and are hugely influenced by the Tibetan-Buddhism cultures.
This restricted area was opened for tourism in 2002 and is one of the top off-beat trekking destinations in the Nepali Himalayas. Due to its isolation from the outer world, the natural state of the region is completely raw and untampered by modernity. Similarly, the cultures and traditions here have been intact for centuries; as a matter of fact, the known history of these hidden valleys dates back to the 5th century. In overall, it's a complete package that is enriched with cultural and incredible natural experiences and is a gateway for insights into the evolution of the mountain civilization.
Outline itinerary of Nar Phu Valley Trek
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,400 meters) and hotel transfer
Day 02: Sightseeing day at Kathmandu and trek preparation
Day 03: Driving from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 meters)
Day 04: Trekking from Besisahar to Bahundanda (1,398 meters)
Day 05: Bahundanda to Chamje (1,410 meters) trek
Day 06: Trekking from Chamje to Bagarchhap (2,080 meters)
Day 07: Bagarchhap to Koto (2,720 meters)
Day 08: Koto to Meta (3,560 meters) trek
Day 09: Trekking from Meta to Phu Gaon (4,250 meters)
Day 10: Acclimatization and exploration day at Phu Gaon
Day 11: Phi Gaon to Nar (4,110 meters) trek
Day 12: Acclimatizing day at Nar
Day 13: Trekking from Nar to Ngwal (3,660 meters) via Kang La Pass (5,322 meters)
Day 14: Ngwal to Chame (2,670 meters) trek
Day 15: Trekking from Chame to Tal (1,700 meters)
Day 16: Tal to Besisahar (760 meters) trek
Day 17: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,400 meters) from Besisahar
Day 18: International departure
Why Choose Off Beaten Trails?
Often beaten trekking trails in the Nepali Himalayas are distinct from other available mainstream trekking adventures. These adventures take you to the farthest corners of the Himalayan regions, where you can relish the true essence of the Himalayan beauty away from the bustling crowds. The off the beaten path treks of Nepal also enhance the overall trekking experience, where you will get a chance to create an intimate bond with nature that widens the horizon of your perspective on the life cycle.
Similarly, the rugged and isolated trails across the preserved settlements that still value the ancient cultures and traditions will pave the road to the spiritual awakening and teach you valuable lessons on the important aspects of life. Besides those, the off-beaten trekking paths also offer a true sense of adventure as you will get the opportunity to traverse across the remote section, experiencing the Himalayan wilderness in its truest form.
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Best Time for Trekking in Nepal
Trekking adventures in Nepal can be done throughout the year. Although the high seasons, like spring (March to May) and autumn (Septemeber to November), are considered the peak points for trekking adventures in Nepal, with the right amount of preparation, you can trek in Nepal during the off-season like winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August). Still, as the off-beaten trails take you across the challenging landscapes of the remote Himalayan regions, for the best value experience, you should still consider the high seasons like spring and autumn.
During these peak seasons, the trail conditions are most stable; the temperatures are pleasant, and most of all, the weather is stable, which is very crucial for high-altitude Himalayan adventures. Even among the peak seasons, spring is considered to be the ultimate period to relish the Himalayan beauty at its peak point. The landscapes of the Himalayan region are covered with stunning visuals of nature during this season, and the crisp view of the Himalayan vistas across the colorful terrains makes every moment magical.
Similarly, the spring is also high time for exploration of the Himalayan flora and fauna inside the national parks or conserved areas. Autumn, however, is known for its fall beauty and most stable climate throughout the year. The dry trekking trails in this season due to low precipitation rates make any Himalayan trekking adventure a comfortable journey. Besides the hues of grey, crimson, yellow, and green that represent the fall season, the vibrant, colorful festivals are another highlight of this peak season. Nepal celebrates some of the biggest festivals in the country during the autumn season, like Dashain, Tihar, Pachali Bhairab, Indra Jatra, Gai Jattra, Mani Rimdu, etc.
Some Helpful Tips for Your Off-beaten Journey
- Off the beaten path treks in Nepal generally comprise of physically demanding endeavors, so don’t skip the training part
- Research your destination thoroughly, as you will mostly traverse restricted and cultural-sensitive regions
- Be respectful toward the culture and traditional practices of the remote civilizations
- Pack efficiently, don’t forget the right gears for your off-beaten journey, but don’t overpack as well
- Stay hydrated throughout the trip and eat a balanced diet
- Take good care of your health and hygiene, and pay attention to symptoms of altitude sickness while traversing to high altitudes
- Follow the instructions of your guide and porter
- Respect the nature and wildlife, take care of your trash
- Take it easy and enjoy the experience
