Top 7 Less Crowded Treks in Nepal

Nepal is a tiny nation in southern Asia that is situated along the Himalayan mountain ranges’ southern slopes. Most of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, which stands at 8848.86 meters above sea level, are found in Nepal. The nation is home to 8 of the 14 tallest peaks above 8000 meters. either as a whole or having either China or India as a neighbor. Nepal is an exceedingly stunning country that is encircled by mountains and hills. Since Nepal is a country in the Himalayas, there are several less popular treks there. As a result, Nepal has become a popular destination for trekkers, rock climbers, mountaineers, and adventure seekers. With over 1310 peaks rising above 6,000 meters, Nepal became a well-liked vacation and tourist destination worldwide. Likewise, in the article, we will discuss about the Less Crowded Treks in Nepal.

Less Crowded Treks in Nepal

Everest is located in Nepal, thus it goes without saying that Everest trekking is a popular trend there. In addition, Nepal’s Everest Annapurna Circuit and camp are both well-liked tourist destinations. However, because of this trek’s popularity, the path is extremely congested and bustling. The majority of Nepal’s less busy treks are either off the beaten route or have just opened. Off-the-beaten-path trekking routes must have complete camping facilities. Kanchenjunga, Upper Dolpo Trekking, Makalu, Rolwaling, Dhaulagiri, Panch Pokhari Trek, and Ganesh Himal Trekking are a few of the less popular off-the-beaten-path treks.

The majority of the aforementioned trekking destinations in Nepal are restricted and demand specific permits from the Department of Immigration in Nepal. In addition, there are no tea places on this walk, therefore camping preparations should be made for the entire journey.

Less crowded hikes are perfect for you if you want to enjoy nature in quiet and with fewer people around. This kind of excursion is thrilling and highly reviving. Different types of refreshments can be obtained by going a different route than others and visiting unique locations in a crowded setting. You won’t come into contact with many trekkers on your route. Therefore, the majority of the people you interact with will be locals. You can discover the best of nature and take in the magnificent beauty of the communities. Additionally, you will have a wonderful opportunity to learn about the unique cultures and traditions of these areas.

As a result, experiencing nature up close and getting to know the inhabitants will give you an incredible adventure.

List of Less Crowded Treks in Nepal

• Upper Dolpo Trekking
• Dhaulagiri Trekking
• Manaslu Trekking
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Kanchenjunga Trekking
• Makalu Base Camp Trekking
• Rolwaling Trekking

1.Kanchenjunga Trekking

Kanchenjunga Trekking is one of the less popular trekking routes. At 8686 meters, Mount Kanchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world. It is located in eastern Nepal, close to the border with Sikkim (India). For this trek, the hikers require a special restricted permit and must pay for a local guide and porter.

Trekking up Kanchenjunga is an amazing adventure in Nepal’s Himalayas. Trekking in this area is the ultimate experience for thrill seekers. Additionally, with the striking peaks that stand out like ships on a faraway sea, this may become a memory for a lifetime. The Kanchenjunga trip also offers a variety of alternatives; you can select between the Kanchenjunga north trek and the Kanchenjunga south trek. Also, traveling in these less crowded treks in Nepal will be a fun memory. The Kanchenjunga circuit trip, on the other hand, includes both the north and south base camps and offers the option of customizing the itinerary. A trek is made lovely by the kind welcome of the locals and the beautiful fields and woods of pink-barked rhododendrons.

Trip highlights

• Enjoy circuit trekking and breath-taking vistas as you get to Base Camp.
• View Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, up close and personal at an elevation of 8,586 meters.
• Trek through rhododendron forests and high alpine meadows after leaving subtropical valleys.
• See how the Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, and Gurung communities and their everyday lives differ from other ethnic groups.
• Discover a variety of rare and threatened species, such as the red panda, blue sheep, Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and many others.

Flights from Kathmandu to Biratnagar or Bhadrapur are the first step in the journey. Take a road trip to Taplejung from here, which takes roughly 10 hours. Take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding natural environments. You could also fly directly from Kathmandu to Suketar. You get to enjoy the adventure in any case. After passing through several settlements in Chirwa, Sakathum, Gyabla, Gunsa, Khambachen, Lhonak, and Pangpema before arriving at the Northern Base Camp Kanchenjunga Glacier, continue from Suketar. You can even do a circuit trip to Kanchenjunga. You will nevertheless love the journey regardless of which hike you select.

There aren’t any crowds here. Kanchenjunga is an uncommon trek because the majority of hikers choose Annapurna or Everest. Few people prefer to go there. Therefore, Kanchenjunga is a good choice if you prefer quiet locations.

2. Makalu Base Camp Trekking

A secluded path that enforces some of the nicest scenes in Nepal is the base camp hike to Makalu. The journey to Makalu’s base camp passes through peaceful pathways, trembling terraced agriculture, rural communities, rhododendron forests, uncommon fauna, and a number of mountain summits. This is a fantastic walk with lots of rewards for hikers that want simplicity and challenges in their trek. With an elevation of 8,481 meters, Makalu is the fifth-highest peak in the world. However, Makalu’s base camp is only 5250 meters above sea level, making it very easy to approach. On the other hand, this walk is very reachable thanks to the daily flights to Tumlingtar and the inexpensive lodging along the way. Also, traveling in these less crowded treks in Nepal will be a fun memory.

For those seeking to encounter a diversity of environments and peoples as well as breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, the walk to Makalu base camp is the best option. Although difficult, the journey to base camp is incredibly rewarding. It is also one of the less popular treks in Nepal.

Trip Highlights

• A breathtaking vista of the Himalayan peaks, granite cliffs, hanging glaciers, rivers, and rhododendron woods.
• Several river gorges, soaring cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and high-altitude lakes let you observe the natural surroundings.
• Discover the Rai community that lives there as well as the Sherpa way of life.
• Take a trip to Makalu Barun National Park.
• Discover the fauna and natural environments that exist, including black bears, red pandas, and snow leopards.
• Makalu Base Camp exploring for the entire day
• Discover the culture and traditions of those who live in a rural place, as well as remote village life.

Exploring high-altitude terrain, natural vistas, as well as an ethnic Himalayan way of life, is made possible through Makalu Base Camp. Additionally, breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga in the far east are available. The trekkers pass by Makalu Barun National Park, where they can discover many types of native plants.

When it comes to size, this park is the eighth-largest in Nepal. It is 2,330 square feet. kilometers and is home to some of the most endangered plants and animals, such as the Red Panda. On the way to the Makalu Base Camp, one can discover several additional things. Despite being a straightforward trek, Makalu is one of the less popular treks. So, you can choose this route if you like fewer crowds and fewer encounters with them.

3. Manaslu Base Camp Trek

Many trekkers dream of climbing one of the eight out of the fourteen highest mountains in the world, which are all located in Nepal. Manaslu, the eighth-highest Himalayan peak, features the most unusual trekking and adventure track. Even though it is one of the tallest mountains in the world, the trail is less popular than those to Everest and Annapurna. A wonderful journey that allows you to experience the best of the Himalayas is the base camp hike to Manaslu. The word “mountain of the soul” is Manaslu.

At 8,163 meters above sea level, this trek’s conical shape offers an amazing mountain view. However, trekking is not just about taking in the scenery; it also highlights Nepal’s fascinating preferred society and its diverse natural landscape. Manaslu is a popular destination for hiking, expeditions, and difficult walking since it is one of the most demanding yet exhilarating excursions. In Nepal, it is a well-known peak. It is not frequently visited, though. Also, traveling on these less crowded treks in Nepal will be a fun memory. The majority of them are ignorant of this route, and some have chosen Everest and Annapurna as their final destinations.

Thus, only a small number of trekkers travel to Manaslu. The Base Camp walk to Manaslu offers rich culture, adventure, scenic beauty, and rural civilization that depicts the traditional Tibetan way of life, despite being a little-traveled trekking route.

Trip Highlights

• Observe the Nubri and Tsum, the two primary ethnic groups that call the area home.
• Discover monasteries, prayer wheels, and mani walls.
• View the sunrise and sunset while taking in the scenery of the spectacular Himalayan ranges, high glacier lakes, and unique flora and animals.
• reach the Manaslu Conservation Area by trek.
• Explore Buddhist traditions and cultures that have Tibetan influences.
• Trek to Manaslu, one of the eight tallest mountains on earth.
• Trek in a serene setting with few people around
• Himlung Himal (7,216m/23,345ft) and Mt. Manaslu (8153m/26,748ft) in spectacular view
• Learn about the people, festivals, and systems of Nepal.
• Arduous trip to Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Glacier Lake

This walk is suitable for people looking for a challenge but also a more tranquil setting. In 1992, the base camp path to Mount Manaslu was formally opened to tourists. As one of the Manaslu Region’s restricted trekking routes that require special trekking permits, the number of tourists to this base camp is rather low.

4. Dhauligiri Trekking

The sixth tallest peak in the world, Dhaulagiri stretches 120 miles from the Kali Gandaki River to the Bheri. Dhaulagiri is a mountain in Nepal that rises to an elevation of 8,167 meters. The peak is referred to in Nepal by its Sanskrit name, Dhaulagiri. Giri means mountain, while Dhaula means brilliant, white, and lovely. Together, they form a stunning mountain. This mountain offers a variety of activities, including climbing and expeditions, trekking to its base camp, and circuit treks to Dhaulagiri.

If climbing is not your thing, you can opt for a circular hike to Dhauligiri. For many hikers, the journey to the seventh-highest peak above 8000 meters is an incredible experience. A beautiful experience is going on a circle trek in Nepal’s Himalayas to learn about the culture and traditions of the locals.

Trip highlights

• Discover the magnificent Pokhara city and its various attractions, including Seti George, Mahendra Cave, Fewa Lake, and David Falls.
• Investigate the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest in the world, which runs between Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri I.
• Dhaulagiri is clearly visible, along with other well-known summits above 8,000 meters, such as Mt. Machhapuchhare, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Manaslu, and many others.
• Experiencing a cracking glacial trek and traveling across high passes such as the Thapa pass and French pass (5,365 m) (5,244 m)
• Opportunity to examine distinctive culture and traditions in relation to the complicated way of life of people and communities
• Take a soak in a natural hot spring.
• Trek with a homestay or entirely under the stars

This strenuous hike leads hikers to the base of Mount Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest peak, in the Annapurna Region (8167m). Additionally, it is one of Nepal’s less popular treks. A number of snow-covered slopes, frozen glaciers, and lateral moraines are encountered throughout the walk. The magnificent view of the Dhaulagiri massif and the nearby 7000-meter peaks also makes the ride much more appealing. Also, traveling in these less crowded treks in Nepal will be a fun memory. The Circuit hike is difficult and a true adventure for anyone seeking an expedition-like experience. Additionally, one can take in the farming communities in the foothills of the Himalayas and high alpine pastures. The trek’s advantages include desolate valleys and up-close vistas of numerous summits over 8,000 meters.

5. Mardi Himal Trekking

The Mardi Himal trip is one of the top-tier treks available in the Annapurna region. For those seeking an adventurous hike, this tea house trek is fantastic. It’s a quick detour hike in a less busy part of the Annapurna region. There aren’t any crowds or noises here because this area is remote and unaffected by modernization. You will experience calm interactions with nature on this walk because it is a peaceful location. The Mardi Himal trek is the shortest trekking route in Nepal. Since most hikers choose to hike up Everest or the Annapurna, very few people are aware of this route.

The Mardi Himal trip was just made available to hikers in 2012. This expedition has not been able to draw the anticipated number of hikers due to the recently opened route. As a result, it is one of the less popular treks in Nepal. It is situated immediately east of the route to Annapurna Base Camp. This journey is Nepal’s undiscovered treasure since it offers a breathtaking vista of the snow-capped peaks. Almost just beneath the Machhapuchhre mountain is Mardi Himal. Also, traveling on these less crowded treks in Nepal will be a fun memory. Even the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be used to hike here. From Pokhara, the Mardi Himal hike begins and concludes.

The Annapurna region’s lovely villages are traversed on the Mardi Himal trek. The stunning rhododendron forest welcomes guests with its timeless wilderness, and it follows you up to 3300 meters.

Trip Highlights

• Views of the sunrise and sunset that are breathtaking from various angles
• Discover breathtaking vistas, small communities, farms, rice terraces, magnificent hills, and mountains.
• Up to 3300 meters, the springtime Rhododendron forests are fragrant and bright.
• Magnificent views of the Annapurna South, Mount Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre Himal.
• Beautiful homestays and friendly local hospitality
• The journey to Mardi Himal High Camp and the Mardi Himal Base Camp
• The region’s diverse flora and fauna
• The socio-culture and way of life of the Magar and Gurung peoples.

Beautiful views of the mountains Mardi, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna are available. You can get the greatest views of Machhapuchhre from the low camp. A Marsi Himal high camp is located at a height of 3580 meters. From here, the entire Annapurna range will appear to be covered in snow from high camp onward. The Annapurna Base Camp can be seen in stunning detail from this fantastic location. Following the path, you will arrive at the Mardi Himal Base Camp, where the stunning Annapurna range is perfectly displayed. The trek offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset.

6. Upper Dolpo Trekking

The journey to Upper Dolpo transports you to a surreal setting where hundreds of years old Buddhist and Bonpo traditions are still fundamental to day-to-day existence. The towns, monasteries, and people you encounter on this walk will have a profound effect on you. Another less busy trek can be found in Nepal. Despite being a location with an outstanding and unique setting, the majority of trekkers are still unaware of this journey. The higher Dolpo hike is located at a height of around 4000 meters during chilly evenings. The communities and inhabitants are considerably more remote, as are the scenery.

Trip Highlights

• Excellent view of the Kanjirowa Himal, Crystal Mountain, and other significant Himalayas.
• Explore the historic monasteries in the Dolpo region.
• Investigate the isolated reaches of the western region and learn about the traditional Dolpa people.
• Observe the distinctive Tibetan Buddhism
• Explore the Himalayan west of Nepal.
• Discover the lovely Phoksundo Lake.

Despite the fact that Dolpo is naturally abundant in diversity, it is rarely visited due to the difficult paths and steep permission and flying costs. The trail travels by stunning valleys, sizable mountains, and lush vegetation, including forests of pine, rhododendron, oak, and other trees. The Upper Dolpo trek’s main draws, however, are its breathtaking scenery, the mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo lake, the isolated Ringmo villages, and the centuries-old monasteries. Also, traveling on these less crowded treks in Nepal will be a fun memory. Similar to lower Dolpo, Upper Dolpo is a lonely area with mystical beauty. It was one of the restricted trekking areas, requiring a special trekking permit and a minimum party size of two people. However, as there are no guest hotels or lodges at the upper altitude, camping is necessary for this hike.

7. Rolwaling Trek

One of the challenging treks that take you into Nepal’s wilderness is the Rolwaling trek. It is one of Nepal’s less crowded hikes. This journey is between the Langtang range and the Everest range and offers a magnificent view of Mt. Everest, Langtang, Jugal Himal, and Mt. Gauri Shanker. You will pass through an intriguing section of the walk where you will see pristine glaciers, high passes, and snow-fed lakes.

In addition, the Tamang and Sherpa communities who populate this area can be encountered up close by trekkers. Similar to that, the hike leads to Nagaon’s oldest monastery. In this monastery, it is said that the Buddhist Guru Padmasambhava spent a considerable amount of time in meditation. After passing the monastery, the path continues to the renowned Tsho Rolpa lake, whose tranquility is beyond description.

Trip Highlights

• Breathtaking views of the snow-covered summits Melungtse (7181 m), Gauri Shankar (7145 m), Cho Oyu (8201 m), and Everest (8848 m)
• Taking a tour of the stunning turquoise Tsho Rolpa Lake (4580m)
• During the journey, there were several amazing places to see the sunrise.
• An opportunity to experience Upper Dolpo’s distinctive Tibetan culture, heritage, and way of life
• Investigation of the area’s uncommon and endangered fauna
• Trying the native food
• Various monasteries, gompas, and other historic monasteries are explored in terms of their cultures.
• Exploring the waterfalls, high mountain passes, and magnificent glaciers
• Incredible warmth and a kind greeting from the locals

The trip continues to a frozen high pass that connects the Rolwaling region with the Khumbu region after passing via the Rolwaling valley. After that, ascend Tashi Laptsa La to see a panoramic view of the Khumbu region’s mountains, including Everest (8848 m). The walk then continues through the Sagarmatha National Park, passing through Namche Bazaar and a number of other Sherpa settlements in the Khumbu region before coming to an end at Lukla. You can experience both the peaceful and busy Himalayan trails on this trek, giving you the full Himalayan experience.

Eight hours by car from Kathmandu, in the little village of Dolakha, close to Charikot, is where the trek starts. The River Tamakoshi’s flow is through the trail. The journey to Simigaon adds even more excitement. The Glacial Lake Tsho Rolpa provides an amazing experience throughout this hike. Also, traveling in these less crowded treks in Nepal will be a fun memory.

As a result, the Nepali Himalayas offer a variety of breathtaking trekking routes. These hiking routes are less busy in Nepal and are quiet and beautiful. Consider going on a journey in this area if you wish to peacefully explore the natural world. The trip to this area can be even more exciting because it gives you a breathtaking view of the Himalayas and the surrounding natural scenery.