Top 6 Most Restricted and Challenging Treks In Nepal

2 Feb 2023 hillaryadmin

Challenging Treks In Nepal

List of Most Challenging Treks In Nepal

Lying in the lap of the Himalayas, Nepal is an ideal destination for trekking hence, Trekking adventures are the most admired activities in Nepal. You will find adventures of several difficulty levels in Nepal. You can pick the adventure that suits you the best. You will find several challenging adventures in Nepal. We will discuss the 6 most challenging treks in Nepal in detail. Each is on its own when it comes to determining the difficulty level because there are several factors determining the difficulty of a trek; weather conditions, rugged trails, landscapes, and so on. 

Nepal is home to diverse terrains which makes it suitable for trekking. You will find some of the finest trekking trails in Nepal. Each trek varies in difficulty level, depending on the intensity, duration, and weather conditions. Not all treks are similar and not all trekkers have the same preference. Hence, Nepal offers a wide range of treks that you can choose from according to your preference. 

If you are someone seeking a little adventure and challenge then you can pick from one of these trekking trails. Be sure that you can walk up to 6 to 8 hours a day. Good physical fitness and strong determination are all you need to complete any challenging treks in Nepal. 

Everest Three High Passes Trek – 18 Days

everest three high passes trek

Everest region, home to the world’s tallest mountain is the most famous trekking region in Nepal. The Everest three high pass trek covers the entire Everest region and differs from the Everest base camp trek. The EBC trek continues north from Namche to Tangboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep, and finally the Everest base camp. 

However, the Everest three-pass trek takes you across Renjo la pass, to Gokyo then to Dzongla crossing the Cho La Pass before joining the classic route to Everest at Lobuche. Upon reaching the Everest base camp, we eventually return to Namche crossing the Kongma La Pass. These three passes make this trek one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. This trek is best suited for those who are willing to explore the entire Everest region and not just the Everest base camp. In addition, you are also going to witness the pristine Gokyo Lakes. 

The passes and the viewpoints along the way make this trek a real challenge. This is best suited for anyone seeking a little adventure and excitement. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek – 14 Days

The Annapurna circuit trek along with the Tilicho Lake takes you to the world’s highest Lake. The trek to Tilicho Lake makes this trek a challenge. On the trail you will witness; diverse flora and fauna, pristine waterfalls, deep gorges, and high passes. 

This trek officially starts from Jagat, heading north towards Chame, Pisang, and then Manang. This trail diverges from the classic Annapurna circuit trek. You will be heading towards Siri Kharka and eventually reach Tilicho Lake then later you rejoin the Annapurna circuit at the Yak Kharka. 

Then we move ahead towards Thorung Phedi before crossing the Thorung La Pass and then we reach the holy Muktinath temple. From Muktinath, the trails take you to the renowned Tatopani and then, Ghorepani. 

This trek takes to an altitude of 5416m at Thorang La Pass so the challenges include; facing adverse climatic conditions, altitude sickness, and unforeseen weather. Hence, the Annapurna circuit trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in Nepal.

Manaslu Circuit Trek – 13 Days

The trails leading to the Manaslu region are remote and rugged letting you experience the raw natural beauty of Nepal. These remote trails make the Manaslu circuit trek, one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. We travel to the trekking region via a local bus to Soti Khola. Then, from Soti Khola you will head towards Machha Khola, Doban, Phillim, Ghap, Namrung, and eventually to Samaguan. 

Most trekkers acclimatize at Samaguan and explore the renowned places in this region including; Birendra Lake, Pungyen Monastery, and the Manaslu base camp. From Samaguan, you head towards Samdo and then Dharmsala. Larkya La Pass lies between Bhimtang and Dharmsala. From this demanding pass, you witness astounding views of the majestic Annapurna II, Kang Guru, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal. 

From Bhimtang, you continue the trek and eventually reach Dharapani. Mostly the treks end here at Dharapani and the trekkers return to Kathmandu via public transport. 

Upper Mustang Trek – 15 Days

upper mustang

The Upper Mustang region falls under the rainshadow of the Himalayas. It is one of the most difficult treks in Nepal. The terrain here is desert-like. This was an abandoned region for a long period of time hence, has its own distinct culture, history, and not to miss the splendid views of the majestic mountains including; Mt. Annapurna, Thorung, Nilgiri, Chulu East, Chulu West, Tukuche Peak, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna IV, Annapurna II. 

To trek to the Upper Mustang, you have to reach Jomsom via flight or bus. Then, from Jomsom the trek starts towards; Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, Samir, Tsarang, and eventually Lo Manthang. The unique terrain is bound to make you fall in love with its unique natural beauty. 

The trails make this trek one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. Also, 

Nar Phu Valley Trek – 14 Days

The Nar Phu Valley trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. Due to the wilderness and lack of appropriate infrastructure, this trail remains the most challenging trekking trail in Nepal. 

This trail leads you to a region between Annapurna and Manaslu. 

A beautiful and remote trekking area in the Annapurna region has successfully made it to the list of the most challenging trekking routes in Nepal. If you want to add to this challenging adventure then you can add Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La on the route as well. 

This is a physically demanding trek as you have to trek for several days over two high mountain passes. This trek starts from Beshisahar, where the classic Annapurna base camp trek starts as well. The trail is the same up to Koto and then you have to turn east in order to reach the remote Nar Phu Valley trek. Passing the Nar Khola River, we move forward to reach Phu Gaon, then we return crossing the two passes and finally entering Naar. 

Then from Naar, you will be passing Kang La Pass and reach Ngwala. Then, we head towards Manang, and from here we will rejoin the Annapurna circuit. After that, you will pass the Yak Kharka, and Tharung Phedi and then cross the Thorung La Pass to reach the holy Muktinath temple. From the renowned Muktinath temple, we will head towards Jomsom then Tatopani, and eventually back to Pokhara. 

Tsum Valley Trek – 16 Days

Mountains of tsum valley in nepal

Tsum Valley is a sacred Himalayan Buddhist pilgrimage located in northern Gorkha Nepal. This pristine Himalayan valley is rich in culture, tradition, and art. The locals residing in this region are mostly of Tibetan origin and have a distinct dialect. The Tsum Valley trekking trail entails Chortens, drawings of the deities that are inscribed with sacred prayers. 

The challenging off-beaten paths make this trail truly adventurous and one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. You get to witness the astounding views of the majestic Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Boudha Himal, and Himalchuli. This is a challenging as well as a rewarding trek. 

Other Challenging Treks To Explore In Nepal

  • Upper Dolpo Trek
  • Rolwaling With The Tashi Lapcha Pass
  • Poon Hill Trek
  • Ganja La Pass Trekking
  • Henjo La Pass To Cho Oyu Trek
  • Upper Dolpo Trek
  • Simikot Hilsa Limi Circuit Trekking
  • Everest Amphu Lapcha Pass Trekking
  • Kanchenjunga Trek
  • Makalu Serpani Col Amphu Lapcha Pass Trek
  • Sherpani Col Pass Trek
  • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

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Top 10 Best Treks in Nepal

Conclusion

These are the six restricted and most challenging treks in Nepal that you can complete successfully. Some of the above-mentioned treks are not doable during monsoons and winters. If you still wish to complete this trek during these times then make sure you are prepared for unforeseen circumstances. So it is better if you travel during the peak seasons i.e Spring and Autumn. 

We recommend you have proper training and prior management to complete the challenging treks, effortlessly. If you are willing to embark on a challenging trekking journey in Nepal then you can connect with us here at the Hillary Step Treks.

FAQs

What Is The Hardest Trek In Nepal?

The Dhaulagiri circuit trek is considered the hardest trek in Nepal. You have to arrange almost everything on this trek, which makes it the most challenging trek in Nepal. 

What Is The Most Challenging Hiking Or Trekking?

Trekking is more challenging as compared to hiking. You have to walk for about 6-7 hours daily for a long period of time whilst trekking whereas you can complete the entire hike in one day. 

Is The Mount Everest Trek Difficult?

The difficulty level of the Everest base camp trek is considered to be moderate. It is a relatively easy trekking trail in Nepal. 

What Is Difficult Trekking?

The difficulty of a trekking trail depends on the steepness of the terrain, the altitude of the trek, and unforeseen weather conditions. 

Is Trekking Dangerous?

Trekking in itself is not a dangerous activity. In fact, trekking in Nepal is quite safe. But we recommend you trek only during the peak season i.e Spring and Autumn. 

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