Challenging Treks in Nepal

In the southernmost part of the Himalayas is the stunning nation of Nepal. Officially a federal democratic nation, Nepal has a land area of 147,516 square kilometers. Nepal is renowned for its enticing natural beauty and is home to multiple Himalayas, including the tallest mountain in the world, Everest. There are therefore many Challenging treks in Nepal.

Everest, which towers at 8848.86 meters, is a national treasure. In addition, there are other peaks in Nepal that are 8000 meters above sea level and are among the ten tallest mountains in the world. Both the Himalayas and other natural resources abound in Nepal.

Each year, thousands of tourists travel to Nepal’s Himalayas. One can engage in a variety of adventurous activities, including climbing, expeditions, and hiking, in the Nepalese Himalayas. From the smallest level to the hardest one, there are treks.

Everyone can complete the easiest one with a few physical activities and effort. To complete such treks, you must have a lot of physical stamina and experience, though, as they are really difficult. Of course, the walk is difficult due to the chilly conditions and high altitude. But while traveling to the Himalayas, there are a number of additional variables to take into account.

Challenging Treks in Nepal

Nepal’s Himalayan trekking is a challenging endeavor. This journey or hike is more difficult than the usual ones. One of the difficult element is the length of the walk itself. It takes at least 10 days to complete the trek to the Nepalese Himalayas. So it’s not an easy task to walk ten days on a difficult, narrow trail.

Even though one will eventually grow weary, giving up was never an option. The hike is not like strolling along the sand while sipping a chilly beverage. This trail has several extremely difficult sections where you must decide whether to continue climbing or not. But the payoff for all the effort is astounding. The view is remarkable after all the effort.

As we all know, the amount of oxygen diminishes with elevation up in the Himalayas. Therefore, one of the main challenges when traveling to a high-altitude hike in Nepal is altitude. Considering that altitude sickness might begin somewhere above 2500 meters.

And the average elevation of the Nepali Himalayan trip is more than 5000 meters. where an elevated risk of altitude sickness exists. Both minor and severe symptoms may be present in the trekkers. Headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness are some of the symptoms. As a result, make the walk as easy and convenient as possible, take your time, go slowly, and drink enough of water. Give it some time. Similarly, there are a lot of Challenging Treks in Nepal.

In Nepal, there are numerous routes that are suited for people of various fitness and experience levels. However, certain treks fall under the category of difficult treks. The walk is difficult because of the cold weather, high altitude, incredibly uneven roads without access to transit, narrow ascents and descents, or a combination of these factors.

Here is the list of the top five challenging treks in Nepal

• Everest Three High Passes Trek
• Kanchenjunga Trek
• Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass
• Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
• Ganja La Pass Trekking

Everest Three High Passes Trek

• Duration of Trek: 18 to 21 days
• Maximum Height: (5,545 M) 18,192 ft
• Starting Point: Lukla
• Everest 3 High Passes Trek Price: starts from 1,450 USD
• Difficulty: Very Strenuous
• Trek Style: Tea House, Lodge, and Hotel.
• Best Seasons: March, April, May, September, October, November.

In Nepal, trekking is incredibly popular during the Everest climbing season. Every mountaineer seeking an exciting yet life-altering adventure is drawn to the world’s highest peak, Everest. Many people have had a lifelong desire of climbing Everest, making it one of the most difficult expeditions to achieve. But, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal.

The summit of Everest can only be reached by the Everest Three Passes Trek. This journey includes all the best mountain views and Sherpa cultural attractions. One of Nepal’s most difficult teahouse hikes is this one. In this high pass walk, we venture off the main path into hidden valleys and high passes, taking in the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Trip highlights

• Discover five magnificent passes that are all above 5,000 meters: the peaks of Gokyo Ri and Kala Pattar, as well as the Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La passes. Trek to the pristine valleys of the Khumbu as you reach the Renjo La and Chukhung passes.
• A breathtaking perspective of the Himalayan giants Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cholatse in all their splendor.
• Discover the inhabitants’ traditions and cultures.

We will initially stick to the major Everest trail. However, it doesn’t take long for us to veer off the path and go through the serene splendor of the Bhote Koshi Valley to the Renjo La pass, which is located at 5,390 meters (17,684 feet). Following the pass, we hike around the Gokyo Lakes and cross the second-highest pass, Cho La, at a height of 5,400 meters (17,700 feet). One may enjoy a stunning up-close view of Everest from here.

The trekkers can also take in breathtaking up-close views from Kala Pattar’s little top. Kongma La, the last pass, is the most difficult. Therefore, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal. The beauty, however, that rewards our efforts with a beautiful view of several of the tallest peaks in the Himalayas compensates us for crossing the Kongma La at 5,540m/18,176ft.

The best high-altitude trekking path in Everest is the Everest three passes trek. It has the most breathtaking alpine scenery on earth. Although this walk has the potential to be challenging, the scenery offers more than enough rewards. For really unique mountain experiences, this is one of the best mountain treks you should undertake.

Kanchenjunga Trek

• Duration of Trek: 18 to 26 days
• Maximum Height: (5,388 M) 17,673 ft
• Starting Point: Kathmandu – Lukla.
• Kanchenjunga Trek Price: starts from 2,000 USD
• Level of Difficulty: Challenging
• Trek Style: Tea House, Camping, Lodge, Homestay.
• Best Seasons: March, April, May, September, October, November.

The third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga, is at an elevation of 8686 meters. It is also one of the toughest hikes. It is situated in eastern Nepal, close to the border with Sikkim (India). In comparison to other hikes like Everest and Annapurna, Kanchenjunga receives fewer visitors. But this hike offers everything a traditional trekker may desire. One might include Kanchanjeunga in their list of explorations despite the fact that it is one of the difficult climbs of the Nepalese Himalayas. So, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal.

Trekking to Kanchenjunga is an amazing excursion across Nepal’s Himalayas. The finest exciting experience for ardent trekkers is trekking in this area. Similarly, the striking peaks that appear to be ships sailing off into the distance could become a lifelong memory.

Trip Highlights

• Enjoy stunning vistas as you go to Base Camp and complete a loop of the Kanchenjunga climb.
• A close-up of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, which is located at an elevation of 8,586 meters
• Trek through the vibrant rhododendron woodland and high alpine meadows as you leave subtropical valleys.
• Discover the customs, traditions, and way of life of ethnic communities like the Gurung, Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa people.
• Learn about many rare and threatened wildlife species, including the red panda, blue sheep, Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and many others.

Extreme adventure enthusiasts’ all-time favorite trip is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. But for almost a decade, this excursion has lost its allure. The trekkers must employ a local guide and porter, and they need a special restricted trekking permit. For the Kanchenjunga trek, there are multiple possibilities. You can either choose to do the Kanchenjunga north trek or the Kanchenjunga south trek.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, on the other hand, includes both the north and south base camps. These days, the walk can also be completed as a tea-house trek, complete with modest lodging and a limited menu. The walk is also made considerably more enjoyable and refreshing by the locals’ warmth and respect for the visitors. But, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal.

A flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar or Bhadrapur serves as the initial point of departure for the journey. From here, it takes roughly 10 hours to go to Taplejung. Enjoy the scenery and natural occurrences that you encounter along the journey. On the other hand, you can even fly directly from Kathmandu to Suketar.

You get to enjoy the adventure in any case. In order to get to the Northern Base Camp Kanchenjunga Glacier, one must first pass via a number of settlements in the chirwa, Sakathum, Gyabla, Gunsa, Khambachen, Lhonak, and Pangpema regions. Although the walk may be a little more difficult, it is still manageable with the right training and preparation.

Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass

• Trek length: 18 to 28 days
• Maximum Height: 18,882 feet (5,755 meters).
• Starting Point: Bedding in Dolakha.
• Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass
• Trek Cost: 3100 USD and above
• Extremely challenging
• Trekking Accommodations: Hotels, Lodges, Tea Houses, and Camping.
• March, April, May, September, October, and November are the best months.

Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha pass is a striking journey to the beauty of both the Rolwaling valley and the Khumbu region of Nepal. This thrilling yet exciting journey leads you to a remote area and lets you acknowledge the stunning views of the Himalayas with the challenges of crossing the high-mountain pass of Tashi Lapcha (5755m). This trek is an amazing blend of the quiet and peaceful paths of the remote Rolwaling region with the swarming trails of the Khumbu region. But, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal. Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass is one of the hidden gems of the Himalayas of Nepal. Despite being a trek with fewer visitors this trek has everything that is required for a perfect adventure. Likewise, this trek involves steep climbing, and rock climbing and thus is one of the challenging treks to the Himalayas.

One of the undiscovered wonders of the Nepalese Himalayas is the Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass. Despite having fewer tourists than other treks, this one provides everything you need for the ideal adventure. Similar to other difficult journeys to the Himalayas, this one entails steep climbs and rock climbing.

Rolwaling Valley is a series of unnoticed canyons that were carved up between majestic mountains. This is a fantastic chance to study the various facets of the Himalayan way of life as it transitions from a remote to a more urban section of the Himalayas.

The Rolwaling valley, which is uninhabited and undiscovered, is mysteriously located beneath the Gaurishankar mountain. This location is lively due to the wonderful fusion of mountain views with appealing scenery, quaint settlements, and tranquil mountain passes. Similarly, the expansive vistas of mountains like Mount Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, Mount Everest, Tsho Rolpa Lake, etc. provide further refreshment for the journey.

Trip Highlights

• Experience of a lifetime on a challenging Himalayan pass and moderate trekking route 5755 Tashi Lapcha
• Utilize off-the-beaten-path routes to explore the well-known Khumbu valley.
• Walking around the calm trails
• The breathtaking fusion of mountain views with enticing landscapes, quaint towns, and tranquil mountain passes.

The trip from Kathmandu to Gonggar via Dolakha is where the trek starts. Next, we’ll go past a number of communities with breathtaking views of Mount Gaurishankar, including Simigaon, Bedding, and Na Gaon (7134m). We’ll tour the Yalung Glacier in Na Goan and scale Ramdung Go’s training peak (5930m). The largest glacial lake in Nepal, Tsho Rolpa Lake (4540m), is reached after a steep ascent on the journey.

Similar to that, the trail leads to Tashi Lapcha Pass through glaciers (5755m). The Gaurishankar Conservation Area and the Sagarmatha National Park are divided by the pass between the Rolwaling and Khumbu regions, respectively. The trail then connects with the busiest and most popular trekking routes in the Khumbu region from here.

Additionally, one may take in views of the Khumbu region’s high peaks, including Everest (8848 m), Cho Oyu (8201 m), and others. But, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal. The route descends to Lukla, from where a flight is taken back to Kathmandu, via the lively Sherpa settlement of Namche Bazaar.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

• Duration of Trek: 17 to 21 days
• Maximum Height: (5,360 M) – 17586 ft
• Starting Point: Beni, Pokhara
• Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Price: starts from 2800 USD
• Difficulty: Very Strenuous
• Trek Style: Camping, and Lodge.
• Best Seasons: April, Mar, September, October, November

All hikers from all around the world enjoy the incredible experience of climbing one of the seventh highest peaks above 8000 meters. This walk is one of the more difficult treks in Nepal since it offers the excellent opportunity to complete a circuit of the Himalayas. The Sanskrit name for the mountain is translated into Nepali as Dhaulagiri. Giri means mountain, while Dhaula means brilliant, white, and lovely. But, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal. From the Kaligandaki River in the west to the Bheri, the Dhaulagiri range stretches 120 kilometers.

The circular trip to the world’s seventh-highest summit is difficult yet thrilling. The first ascent of Dhaulagiri, which borders Nepal, was made on May 13, 1960, by a Swiss-Austrian-Nepali team. The Annapurna Region’s Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek takes hikers to the base of Mount Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest mountain (8167m).

A number of snow-covered hills, frozen glaciers, and lateral moraines are encountered throughout this circular hike. The main draws of this circuit trip are the beautiful views of the mighty Dhaulagiri massif and other mountain peaks over 7000 meters. For those looking for an expedition-like experience, this walk is difficult and truly exciting. One can even enjoy the rural communities, high alpine pastures, and deserted valleys in the Himalayan foothills. Trekkers will also be blessed with a close-up view of a number of peaks over 8,000 meters throughout this journey. Both inexperienced hikers and expert ones will find the trek challenging.

Therefore, one must be fully aware of their physical fitness and stamina before beginning the circuit trip to Dhaulagiri.

Trip Highlights

• The control of the deepest oceans Kali Gandaki Gorge, George
• A close-up perspective of Dhaulagiri and a 360-degree panorama of the peaks higher than 8,000 meters, including as Mt. Machhapuchhare, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Manaslu, and many others.
• Cracking glacial hike and path across high passes, such as Thapa pass and French pass (5,365 m) (5,244 m)
• chance to examine distinctive culture and customs alongside the complex way of life of people and groups
• Take a trek that is entirely camping or home-stay based.

The traditional flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is the starting point of this spectacular circuit trek. Drive to Darbang next, where the real journey starts, from Pokhara. After that, you’ll travel through a number of terraced hilly areas and pathways that are heavily forested. Additionally, go past numerous Magar villages to learn about their culture and way of life.

Similar to the Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and Japanese Base Camp, the circuit trek allows you to traverse via three of the base camps. One’s heart begins to race as they witness the magnificent icefall descending from the northeast col between Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak. But, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal. After reaching the French Pass, proceed down a white, icy path across the glacial moraines. At an elevation of 5360m, it is the trek’s highest point.

The trail then arrives in the Hidden Valley, which is hidden by the Dhaulagiri massif. The hikers arrive at Jomsom after passing across the Dhampus Pass and Thapa Pass. Therefore, for those looking for adventure, this hike entails traversing a high mountain pass and walking over creaking glaciers.

Ganja La Pass Trekking

• Duration of Trek: 14 to 17 days
• Maximum Height: (5,033 M) 16,512 ft
• Starting Point: Syabrubesi Langtang
• Ganja La Pass Trek Price: 1,900 USD
• Difficulty: Very Strenuous
• Trek Style: Tea House, Lodge, Camping Trek
• Best Season: March, April, May, September, October, November.

The Langtang Valley is surrounded by vast rhododendron and bamboo woods that are in full bloom, magnificent waterfalls, and the snow-capped Himalayas. This trek is one of the most varied and is close to Kathmandu. In addition to the scenic setting, the walk presents a rare chance to visit Tibetan and Tamang settlements. Its other key draw is the ability to comfortably access glaciers at low elevations while scaling tiny summits.

The journey to Ganja La Pass in the Langtang valley is one of the difficult yet thrilling excursions that features stunning natural scenery and Tibetan ethnic cultures. Trekking in the Langtang Valley offers a variety of intriguing experiences. Additionally, the stunning Langtang Valley offers numerous chances for peak climbing, high mountain pass traversals, circuit treks, and side hikes.

The trek to Langtang Ganja La Pass is one of the most popular and difficult hiking objectives. The Langtang region, northwest of the Kathmandu Valley, is home to the Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek. This walk offers hikers stunning snow-covered high passes, stunning mountain views, and historic religious settlements.

The Langtang and Helambu valleys, as well as the locals’ natural way of life, are another additional draw for this walk. This week gives you the opportunity to experience pristine nature free from the effects of urbanization as it transports you from the crowded trails of the Langtang region to the quiet trails of Helambu across the icy Ganja La Pass (5130m).

Trip Highlights

• Drive through a scenic route from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi
• Go to Kyangiin Monastery and Langtang Village.
• Kyanjin Ri offers a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges.
• Ganja La Pass offers a breathtaking vista (5122m)
• Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and other historical sites
• exploration of many wildlife species, including bears, langurs, musk deer, red pandas, and snow leopards.

Starting the trek is a beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. The trail then travels through a number of Tamang villages after Syabrubesi before arriving at the renowned Tamang settlement in the Langtang valley. The trail continues through the flora of the mountains till it arrives at the historic monastery of Kyanjin Gompa. But, it is one of the Challenging Treks in Nepal. For the Tamang people living in the Langtang region, this Gompa is the most revered monastery.

The trail then approaches the captivating Ganja La Pass gradually and steadily (5130m). The trek’s highest point is at this latitude, which is permanently frozen. It is regarded as difficult due to the frozen temperature because it will be difficult to travel through cold and frozen temperatures. The trail then through Helambu’s Sherpa settlements before coming to an end in Melamchi Pul.

This walk is therefore made much more fascinating and beautiful by the Tamang hamlet, breathtaking views of the Langtang range, the dense forest of rhododendron and pine, several Buddhist monasteries, local cheese factories, and the varied flora and wildlife.

As a result, the journey to the Himalayas is always difficult. But the journey is not insurmountable with a little more work. The reward for the trekkers will be an amazing glimpse of nature and its treasures. The stunning view of the peaks, the early sunrise, and the sunset all add to the journey’s additional comforts.

The vista is worth the hard work even if the terrain will be difficult, difficult, and rocky. The terrain, the weather and temperature, the extremely frozen roads, and the altitude are only a few of the variables that make the trek difficult. One can overcome these challenges, though, if one prepares yourself.