Nepal is world-famous for its classic long-distance trails like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, but you do not need to spend weeks discovering the charm of the Himalayas. Nepal also has many short treks that have a perfect combination of mountain scenery, local culture, and rewarding trails all in a matter of a few days. Whether you are a beginner trekker, short on time, or simply need a brief holiday, these are the ten best short treks in Nepal that you can accomplish within a week or less.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is among the most popular short treks in Nepal for beginners. From Nayapul, near Pokhara, the trek passes through picturesque Gurung and Magar villages like Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani, eventually reaching Poon Hill at an altitude of 3,210 meters. The vista opens into an exquisite sunrise panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. There are stone-paved paths, rhododendron forests, and charming teahouses to rest and unwind along the way, so this trek is easy but nicely scenic.
Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is a secret gem that lies to the east of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is a less crowded and quieter trekking adventure with a bird’s eye view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. It begins at Kande and makes a slow ascent through ridges lined with forest and alpine pastures until it reaches the base camp at around 4,500 meters. Because it is relatively off-the-beaten-path, Mardi Himal is ideal for avoiding the crowds but not the views.
Australian Camp Trek
A great trek for families or with very limited time, the Australian Camp Trek is one that offers stunning Himalayan views with minimal effort. From Kande, which is an hour’s drive from Pokhara, the trek follows through terraced hillside and peaceful forest trails. The highlight is an overnight stay at Australian Camp, waking up to views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. The trek can be done in a day or extended to a night trip with options for combining it with Dhampus or Sarangkot.
Langtang Valley Trek
While typically a medium-length trek, the Langtang Valley trek can be done in 5–7 days with a tight schedule. It begins at Syabrubesi, a day’s journey from Kathmandu, and goes north into untouched Langtang National Park. The route winds up through dense forests, picturesque Tamang settlements, and expansive glacial valleys until it arrives at the cultural center of Kyanjin Gompa. For a yet more dazzling view, most hikers ascend to Kyanjin Ri or Tserko Ri.
Dhampus Sarangkot Trek
This is one of the easiest and most straightforward treks from Pokhara, which even goes for travelers with 2-3 days at hand. From Phedi or Kande, the trek passes through picturesque villages like Dhampus and brings us to the famous Sarangkot viewpoint. Along the way, trekkers get to witness lush hills, the authentic Gurung lifestyle, and glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Sarangkot is also a favorite paragliding place, so you can end your trek amidst a bird’s-eye view of Pokhara Valley.
Helambu Trek
The Helambu Trek is ideal for those who want to see rich cultural diversity and mountain terrain without having to move too far from Kathmandu. Spread normally in 4–6 days, the trek is commenced from Sundarijal or Melamchi and traverses through the Chisapani, Kutumsang, and Tarkeghyang villages. The trek offers a fascinating look at Sherpa and Tamang villages, serene forests, and glimpses of Langtang Lirung. It’s less crowded than other treks and is a remote option close to the capital.
Khopra Danda Trek
Often overlooked in the shadow of the nearby Ghorepani trail, the Khopra Danda Trek is a stunning yet less crowded option. Starting at Nayapul or Ghandruk, the trek climbs through rhododendron forests and scenic villages to the summit of Khopra Ridge around 3,660 meters. From here, trekkers enjoy sweeping views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South. A one-day hike to Khayar Lake is an optional excursion that gives the trek a religious and adventurous flavor.
Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Trek
This short trek is ideal for tourists wishing to sample simple and culturally enriching trekking near Kathmandu. Starting in the hill resort of Nagarkot, famous for its sunrise view, the route meanders through scenic views and old Newari villages to end at Dhulikhel. It can be completed in one or two days and offers wide Himalayan views on good days, plus contact with village life and buildings.
Panchase Trek
Panchase Trek is a serene and spiritual trek that starts near Pokhara and traverses the hills to the south-west of the Annapurna range. The trail takes you through the subtropical forests, lakes, and ridges to the holy Panchase Hill, which commands breathtaking views of the mountains and is also a sacred pilgrimage site. It is a low-altitude trek, never more than 2,500 meters, so an ideal choice for families, elderly people, or those searching for a nature retreat with minimal height gain.
Pikey Peak Trek
A hidden gem in the Solu district, the Pikey Peak Trek offers some of the best Everest views without having to go all the way to Everest Base Camp. Sir Edmund Hillary once described it as giving him his most treasured view of Everest. The hike is possible in 5–6 days and leads you across peaceful Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and tropical forest paths. Pikey Peak itself is at an altitude of 4,065 meters and gives a panoramic sunrise over the Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga ranges.
Final Words
Nepal’s short treks have it all from stunning mountain vistas to rich cultural experiences all within a few days’ travel. A first-time traveler, a time-constrained seasoned trekker, or someone looking for a less demanding adventure, these ten treks present the best of Nepal’s beauty without the long-term commitment. So put on your hiking boots and let the Himalayas set up your next short getaway.