Nepal’s geographical diversity makes Nepal the most explorable place for the best hiking and trekking destinations. There are numerous trails, particularly in the mountains, which are frequently chosen by tourists seeking an exhilarating rush. Over the years, trekking culture has increased in Nepal, especially as a mode of outdoor adventure. Nevertheless, there are still many trekking destinations in Nepal to explore and many trails yet to put your foot on.
These less explored, remote, and isolated trails are called off-the-beaten paths. They are the best as they have untouched nature and raw freshness. However, few people explore such places due to remoteness, lack of access to basic infrastructures, and lack of permanent settlements.
Nepal is home to many unspoiled paths in the northern Himalayas, Tibetan borders, and the Midwest. This blog attempts to list down such less traveled routes and explore more unseen and untouched destinations of Nepal. Here is a list of less-traveled trekking destinations in Nepal:
Upper Dolpo Trek
Dolpa, Nepal’s largest district, is one of the country’s most remote locations. When we discuss the most remote treks in Nepal, Upper Dolpo Trek is the first thing that comes to mind. It is situated in the mid-western part of Nepal. While Dolpa and its trails appear to be incredibly beautiful and unrivaled, trekking in this area is an untrodden route. The distance between the location and the rest of the globe makes communication incredibly difficult. In addition, there are no permanent settlements, lodges, and tea houses. Consequently, there are difficulties on a physical and infrastructure level.
The Upper Dolpo trek leads you to the deepest and most pristine Shey Phoksundo Lake, which amazes you with its freshness and depth. Before the trek is completed, we have to go through two passes: Nagdalo La (5,350m/17,552ft) and Sela La Pass (5,100m/16,740ft). Undoubtedly, the best experience is seeing the primitive fauna, rich religion, and culture unhindered by the rest of the world.
Highlights:
- Two passes: Nagdalo La (5,350m/17,552ft) and Sela La Pass (5,100m/16,740ft)
- Shey Phoksundo Lake
- Trails and culture of beautiful mid-western Nepal
- Offbeat caravan trail
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna region is well known for its climbing and trekking opportunities. However, the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek occurs in a less traveled portion of the Annapurna region. Hence, this trek is recommended to those who love the wilderness outdoors, seek adventure, and take calculated risks. Few people explore Annapurna North today because of the remoteness and challenging trails. But, with difficulty comes fresh and everlasting experience. The trek offers beautiful panoramic views of the Himalayas. Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchre take your breath away.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchre
- Remote areas of the Annapurna region
- No overwhelming crowds
- Easy access from Pokhara
- Gurung Culture
- Natural hot springs
Indigenous People Trail
Indigenous People Trail is one of the off-the-beaten tracks of Nepal. It is located in the Mahabharat mountain range. The 130 km trip from Kathmandu Valley to Ramechhap is where the trail’s trekking begins. The Indigenous People Trail offers an unparalleled and organic fusion of cultural, linguistic, and ethnic diversity. The region is bordered by Thulo Sailung peak in the North, the Sun Koshi running in the South, and the Tamakoshi in the east. The trail offers a stunning view of the Himalayas and Mid Hills, including the Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Jugal, Dhaulagiri, Kanchenjunga, and Everest ranges.
Highlights:
- Culture of Newars, Tamang, Sherpa, Thamis, Majhis, and other ethnic groups
- Panoramic view of the Himalayas and Mid Hills, including the Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Jugal, Dhaulagiri, Kanchenjunga, and Everest ranges
- Local traditions, folk dances, and customs
Ama Yangri Trek
Ama Yangri peak lies in the Helambu region, about 90 kilometers north of Kathmandu. It is situated at an altitude of 3771 meters above sea level. The peak’s vibe, structure, and overall appearance are reminiscent of Poon Hill. Trekking in the Ama Yangri paths will leave you speechless with the breathtaking vistas of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, and the world’s highest peak itself, Mount Everest. Sherpas, Tamangs and Chhetris inhabit this place. Along with the majestic mountains, this trail also offers a beautiful opportunity to experience green landscapes and the distinctive Hyolmo Culture.
Highlights:
- Excellent views of mountains that include the Langtang Range, the Annapurnas, Manaslu, and even Everest
- Language, culture, and dress of the Helambu Sherpas
- Unique Hyolmo Culture
- Beautiful rhododendron, pine, and oak forests
Manaslu Trek
Manaslu Trek lies in the secluded Budi Gandaki and Nubri Valley of Nepal. The trek, a journey near one of the world’s highest peaks, Manaslu, takes you on a remote and offbeat journey. These tranquil paths, where nature is untainted, and the beauty is preserved, will further lead you to the majestic views of the stunning plateaus and Himalayas, which you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
You will learn much about the ancient Bon and Tibetan Buddhist religion and culture along the trail. The beautiful monasteries and Gompas and walking on the old tracks of the valley of Budi Gandaki are some of the highlights of the Manaslu trek that will bring you close to the Nepalese culture.
Highlights:
- Scenic mountain ranges
- Ethnicity, culture, and lifestyle of the villagers and Tibetan Buddhist religion
- Beautiful Buddhist monasteries
- Excellent views of Manaslu
Limi Valley
Humla district remains hidden and distant. So does the Limi Valley, which lies in the Humla district. The trails of Limi connect the trekkers with the ancient trade route connecting Nepal, India, and Tibet. As distant and secluded as it gets, Limi remains untouched by modernization and is mostly deserted, with few settlements.
The gompas and monasteries represent the Tibetan Buddhist religion and culture. Mani walls decorated with tethered prayer flags are significant highlights of the valley. Limi Valley offers unobstructed views of Mt. Kailash, Kanjirowa, Api, and Saipal lie in the crux of Tibet and Nepal. They are often considered to be the hidden Himalayas of northwest Nepal.
Highlights:
- Magnificent Limi Valley
- Limi culture, tradition, and customs
- Unspoiled nature bounding the monasteries, gompas, and stupas
- Himalayan ranges of Mt. Kailash, Kanjirowa, Api and Saipal
There are many such unexplored places in hidden corners of this beautiful country, Nepal. Witnessing the remoteness and the unspoiled nature would be a dream for every adventure lover and risk-taker. Such places offer unique local experiences in Nepal’s nooks and crannies, aided by the physical and infrastructural challenges.
However, trekking in Nepal’s secluded and off-the-beaten paths requires guidance and experience. Wild Yak Expeditions, the best trekking company in Nepal, will help you take this challenge and offer you a memorable trip on the pristine trails of Nepal. Visit Nepal and explore these less-traveled trekking destinations in Nepal. Also, do check out these best treks in Nepal.