1 Feb 2024 8 min to read
Nepal has abundant trekking destinations appropriate for all age groups. Therefore, Nepal is renowned as a ‘trekking paradise’ across the globe. Trek grades are categorized as easy, moderate, hard, and challenging. Among all these grades, Outdoor Himalayan Treks presents an article on ‘9 Moderate to Hard treks in Nepal’ for trekkers to get detailed insights and choose the best that fits or as per their preference. Moderate to Hard treks in Nepal are usually above 4,500 m and hence, achievable for trekkers having top-notch physical fitness and good mental fitness.
Features of Moderate to Hard Treks in Nepal
- Suitable for all trekkers having top-notch physical fitness.
- The maximum elevation gain during the treks is above 4,500m.
- The trail paths are mostly comfortable for trekking during the peak seasons.
- Trek routes are mostly rough and require long walking hours but are adventurous.
- Spring and Autumn seasons are favorable for these treks.
- It treats trekkers with beautiful natural scenery, scenic landscapes, attractive villages, and snow-covered mountains above 8,000m.
- No technical gears are required for these treks.
- Welcoming locals and their culture, and ancient monasteries are prime attractions.
- The trek duration is from 12 days to 21 days depending on the trek route.
Moderate to Hard Trek Destinations in Nepal Chart
| Trek Destination | Max. Elevation | Trek Start/End | Permits Required |
| Bhairab Kunda (12 days) | 4,250 m | Jalbire/Larcha | Langtang NP, TIMS |
| Jomsom Muktinath Trek (12 days) | 3,800 m | Tikhedhunga/Jomsom | ACAP, TIMS |
| Annapurna Base Camp Trek (13 days) | 4,130 m | Tikhedhunga/Syomrong | ACAP, TIMS |
| Gokyo Ri (13 days) | 5,357 m | Lukla/Lukla | Sagarmatha NP, Khumbu Rural |
| Langtang Gosaikunda Trek (15 days) | 4,610 m | Syabrubesi/Sundarijal | Langtang NP, TIMS |
| Tsum Valley (16 days) | 3,705 m | Soti Khola/Soti Khola | Tsum Valley RAP, MCAP, TIMS |
| Everest Base Camp Trek (16 days) | 5,644.5 m | Lukla/Lukla | Sagarmatha NP, Khumbu Rural |
| EBC Trek via Salleri (20 days) | 5,644.5 m | Khari Khola/Khari Khola | Sagarmatha NP, Khumbu Rural |
| EBC Trek via Jiri (21 days) | 5,644.5 m | Bhandara/Lukla | Sagarmatha NP, Khumbu Rural |
Bhairab Kunda (12 days)
Trek Start: Jalbire
Trek End: Larcha
Max. Elevation: 4,250 m (Bhairab Kunda)
Trek Route:
Jalbire-Chanaute-Khani Gaun-Forest Camp-Pati-Bhairab Kunda-Sherpa Gaun-Larcha
Bhairab Kunda is a sacred lake that lies in the high mountain region to the north of Kathmandu. Trekkers pass through the diverse landscapes, and geography, and witness ancient culture, and ethnicity. This trek to Bhairab Kunda fascinates with the experience of pristine natural beauty, cultural diversity, and ethnic mix in the mountains of Nepal. Encounter a mixed culture and settlements, and attractive Tamang villages. Get glimpses of several Chortens, Mani walls, and monasteries surrounded by fluttering prayer flags. The predominant Buddhist culture of the Tamang ethnics and their well-deserved culture is very heartfelt. In this trek, relish the Himalayan mountain peaks like Dorje Lakpa, Madiya, Phurbi Ghyachu, and numerous others.
Jomsom Muktinath Trek (12 days)
Trek Start: Tikhedhunga
Trek End: Jomsom
Max. Elevation: 3,800 m (Muktinath)
Trek Route:
Tikhedhunga-Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Tatopani-Ghasa-Marpha-Kagbeni-Muktinath-Jomsom
Jomsom Muktinath Trek is one of the most beautiful trekking trips in Nepal that takes travelers through beautiful settlements. Travelers can witness changing scenic landscapes and experience different weather. One of the real attractions of the place is the holy temple of Muktinath which lies at a highest altitude of 3,800m. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists. The windy atmosphere of Jomsom is a memorable one to cherish forever.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek (13 days)
Trek Start: Tikhedhunga
Trek End: Syomrong
Max. Elevation: 4,130 m (Annapurna Base Camp)
Trek Route:
Tikhedhunga-Ulleri-Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Tadapani-Sinuwa-Dovan-Deurali-Annapurna Base Camp-Bamboo-Jhinu Danda-Syomrong
The most renowned classic Annapurna Base Camp trek in the Annapurna Region attracts everyone with its scenic natural beauty. Pass through lush green landscapes and witness diverse flora and fauna in the vicinity of Annapurna Conservation Area. The spectacular views of the Annapurna Ranges, Dhaulagiri Ranges, Machhapuchhre, and other snowy mountains are a treat for trekkers. Local teahouses, friendly locals, and natural hot springs add beauty to this trek. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is undeniably a rewarding trek for travelers around the world.
Gokyo Ri (13 days)
Trek Start: Lukla
Trek End: Lukla
Max. Elevation: 5,357 m (Gokyo Ri)
Trek Route:
Lukla-Phakding-Namche-Dole-Machhermo-Gokyo-Gokyo Ri-Dole-Namche-Lukla
Gokyo Ri Trek in the vicinity of the Everest region offers some uniqueness for trekkers seeking different from popular Everest and Annapurna treks. Gokyo Ri trek in the vicinity of the enriching Gokyo Valley and turquoise Gokyo Lake is undoubtedly the major attraction of this trek. A hike to Gokyo Ri and witness a breathtaking view of four eight-thousanders from Gokyo Ri; namely Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Everest itself. This Trek has established itself as one of the best in the region furnished with fantastic shades of Everest and its surroundings.
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek (15 days)
Trek Start: Syabrubesi
Trek End: Sundarijal
Max. Elevation: 4,610 m (Lauribina Pass)
Trek Route:
Syabrubesi-Lama Hotel-Langtang Village-Kyanjing Gompa-Lama Hotel-Thulo Syabru-Sing Gompa-Gosaikunda-Lauribina-Tharepati-Kutumsang-Chisopani-Sundarijal
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is a moderate trek with a high elevation gain of 4,610m. This trek takes travelers to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake which is considered holy for both Buddhists and Hindu devotees. Adore the beauty of this trek by passing through authentic Tamang villages, experiencing warm hospitality, and immersing in their culture. The ancient Gompas, spectacular views of Langtang ranges and Ganesh Himal, and several lakes in the vicinity of Gosaikunda allure all.
Tsum Valley (16 days)
Trek Start: Soti Khola
Trek End: Soti Khola
Max. Elevation: 3,705 m (Mu Gompa)
Trek Route:
Soti Khola-Machha Khola-Jagat-Lokpa-Chumling-Chhokangparo-Nile-Mu Gompa-Chhokangparo-Eklebhatti-Dovan-Soti Khola
Tsum Valley Trek in the Manaslu region is a different experience trek than the popular Everest and Annapurna treks. This trek lies in the remote region hence it is less crowded. Tsum Valley is heavily influenced by ancient Tibetan culture. Many people here practice Buddhism. Trekkers can experience the intimate culture and traditions of the people living here. The Buddhist monasteries, enriched topography, and real scenic beauty make this Tsum Valley trek one of the best treks to explore. Relish the stunning mountain views of Buddha Himal, Ganesh Himal, Siringi Himal, and others.
Everest Base Camp Trek (16 days)
Trek Start: Lukla
Trek End: Lukla
Max. Elevation: 5644.5 m (Kalapatthar)
Trek Route:
Lukla-Phakding-Namche-Tengboche-Dingboche-Lobuche-Gorakshep-Everest Base Camp-Gorakshep-Kalapatthar-Pheriche-Tengboche-Namche-Lukla
The Everest Base Camp trek needs no introduction and is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. This trek takes trekkers to the vantage Kalapatthar viewpoint to witness the phenomenal views of Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Lhotse, etc. The trail starting from Lukla to the Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar treats trekkers with scenic views, beautiful landscapes, lovely Sherpa villages, warm hospitality, ancient monasteries, glaciers, and the unique culture and lifestyle of Sherpas.
EBC Trek via Salleri (20 days)
Trek Start: Khari Khola
Trek End: Khari Khola
Max. Elevation: 5,644.5 m (Kalapatthar)
Trek Route:
Khari Khola-Paiya-Phakding-Namche-Tengboche-Dingboche-Lobuche- Gorakshep-Everest Base Camp-Gorakshep-Kalapatthar-Pheriche-Tengboche-Monjo-Lukla-Khari Khola
Salleri is one of the best alternative routes for trekkers seeking new trekking experiences via an overland route. Salleri is an old route that is slowly gaining at present, especially for trekkers on a budget. This trek route is less crowded and trekkers can experience the natural beauty of Salleri and other villages pleasantly. Throughout the trek, witness picturesque views of the diverse landscapes, beautiful terraced fields, green hills, blue snowy mountains, fast-flowing rivers, and local villages, and travel on curvy roads. Trekkers get ample time to acclimatize as it starts from a lower altitude.
EBC Trek via Jiri (21 days)
Trek Start: Bhandara
Trek End: Lukla
Max. Elevation: 5,644.5 m (Kalapatthar)
Trek Route:
Bhandara-Sete-Junbesi-Nunthala-Bupsa-Paiya-Phakding-Namche-Tengboche-Dingboche-Lobuche- Gorakshep-Everest Base Camp-Gorakshep-Kalapatthar-Pheriche-Tengboche-Lukla
Jiri is one of the oldest routes for the Everest Base Camp. This is a classic route as it is followed by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, thus holds great importance. For trekkers seeking a new Everest Trek experience via roadway, this is an ideal option. The simple rural life and pristine nature and culture of the locals residing here impress all. The unspoiled nature and the original settlements of legendary Sherpas along the trail are the highlights of this route. Get familiar with incredible ecological and environmental diversity, from the subtropical to the freezing high alpine in this trek. Also, trekkers get some time to acclimatize which helps them to adjust to the surroundings during this trek as it commences from the lower altitude.
Permits Required for 9 Moderate to Hard Treks in Nepal
| Region | Permits Required |
| Annapurna Region Jomsom Muktinath Trek Annapurna Base Camp Trek | 1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Foreigners- NPR 3000/person SAARC- NPR 1000/person 2.Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Foreigners- NPR 2000/person SAARC- NPR 1000/person Diplomats/Foreign Officials- NPR 500/person |
| Langtang Region Bhairab Kunda Trek Langtang Gosaikunda Trek | 1. Langtang National Park (LNP) Foreigners- USD 30/person SAARC- USD 15/person 2.Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Foreigners- NPR 2000/person SAARC- NPR 1000/person Diplomats/Foreign Officials- NPR 500/person |
| Manaslu Region Tsum Valley Trek | 1. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Foreigners- USD 30/person SAARC- NPR 1000/person 2. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) USD 40/week per person (for a week) + USD 7/person per day (beyond a week) [Sep-Nov] USD 30/week per person (for a week) + USD 7/person per day (beyond a week) [Dec-Aug] 2.Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Foreigners- NPR 2000/person SAARC- NPR 1000/person Diplomats/Foreign Officials- NPR 500/person |
| Everest Region Gokyo Ri Trek Everest Base Camp Trek EBC Trek via Jiri EBC Trek via Salleri | 1. Khumbu Rural Municipality Foreigners- NPR 2000/person SAARC- NPR 1000/person 2. Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) Foreigners- NPR 3000/person SAARC- NPR 1500/person |
Note: These trek packages are flexible and can be customizable to the trekker’s preferences.
