Top 7 Popular Yet Less Crowded Trekking Destinations in Nepal

In this blog, we will introduce you to popular yet lesser-known trekking destinations in Nepal, where you can escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Whether you seek solitude, unique experiences, or simply want to explore the unexplored, these destinations will captivate your adventurous spirit.

Join us as we unveil the secrets of Nepal's notable and less crowded trekking routes.

1. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes you to the remote and mesmerizing region of Kanchenjunga, named after the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. This trek is an extraordinary journey that introduces you to the natural and cultural wonders of the eastern part of Nepal.

The trek typically begins in Taplejung, located in the eastern hills of Nepal. From there, you'll follow a trail that leads you through diverse landscapes, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Kanchenjunga region. You'll traverse through dense rhododendron forests, where vibrant blooms create a striking contrast against the lush greenery. As you ascend, you'll pass terraced fields that showcase the agricultural lifestyle of the local communities.

The duration of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek varies depending on the chosen route and individual trekking pace. Generally, the trek takes around 18 to 20 days to complete. It is considered a challenging trek, as it involves long hours of walking, steep ascents and descents, and high altitudes. Adequate physical fitness and proper acclimatization are essential for a successful and enjoyable experience.

Highlights and attractions:

Magnificent views of the world's third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga
Exploration of remote and untouched valleys and villages.
Encounters with unique flora and fauna, including rare orchids and endangered wildlife.
Cultural immersion with local ethnic communities like the Limbu and Rai people

Reasons for it being less crowded:

Challenging terrain and strenuous trekking conditions deter casual trekkers.
Limited tea houses and facilities along the route restrict large-scale tourism.
The remote location and restricted access require special permits, contributing to fewer visitors.

Trek Link: https://www.beyondthelimitstreks.com/kanchenjunga-trek

2. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek:

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an exhilarating adventure that takes you on a remarkable journey around the majestic Dhaulagiri massif, the seventh-highest mountain in the world. This trek is renowned for its rugged terrain, challenging trails, and breathtaking landscapes. It offers an opportunity to explore the remote and untouched regions of western Nepal, showcasing the raw beauty of the Dhaulagiri mountain range.

The trek typically starts from Beni, a town in the Myagdi District of western Nepal. From there, you embark on a challenging trail that circumnavigates the Dhaulagiri massif, taking you through picturesque villages like Marpha and Yak Kharka. Throughout the trek, you are treated to stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Dhaulagiri I, II, III, and IV, as well as nearby peaks like Annapurna and Nilgiri.

The route takes you through diverse landscapes, from terraced fields and lush forests to high alpine valleys and glacial moraines. The duration of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek varies depending on the chosen route and individual trekking pace. It generally takes around 15 to 18 days to complete. This trek is considered to be a challenging one, requiring good physical fitness and prior trekking experience. Proper acclimatization is essential due to the high altitudes encountered along the way.

Despite its challenges, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a rewarding experience for adventurers seeking remote wilderness, breathtaking mountain vistas, and an unparalleled sense of accomplishment.

Highlights and Attractions:

Spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri massif, including Dhaulagiri I, II, III, and IV, as well as nearby peaks like Annapurna and Nilgiri.
Exploration of remote and untouched regions of western Nepal, showcasing the raw and rugged beauty of the Dhaulagiri mountain range.
Traverse through diverse landscapes, including terraced fields, lush forests, high alpine valleys, and glacial moraines.
Encounters with unique flora and fauna, such as rare orchids, colorful birds, and the possibility of spotting elusive wildlife like snow leopards and red pandas.
Immersion in the local culture and interaction with ethnic communities residing in picturesque villages along the trekking route.

Trek Link: https://www.beyondthelimitstreks.com/dhaulagiri-circuit-trek

3. Tsum Valley Trek:

Located in the Manaslu region, the Tsum Valley is a secluded and sacred valley known for its untouched natural beauty, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural heritage.

The trek begins in the village of Soti Khola and follows a trail that winds through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and lush forests. As you ascend, you'll be surrounded by stunning views of snow-capped peaks, including Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Buddha Himal. The trail leads you to the heart of the Tsum Valley, a place that has preserved its traditional Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle for centuries.

One of the highlights of the Tsum Valley Trek is the opportunity to visit ancient Buddhist monasteries. The region has significant monastic establishments such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa. These monasteries are adorned with beautiful murals, ancient scriptures, and precious relics, offering a serene atmosphere for meditation and spiritual reflection.

The Tsum Valley also provides a unique cultural experience as you interact with the local communities, predominantly the Tsumbas. The Tsumbas have their own distinct language, customs, and festivals, and their warm hospitality will make you feel welcome and immersed in their way of life.

Highlights and Attractions:

Explore the Tsum Valley, also known as the "Hidden Valley," which remains secluded and pristine, offering a glimpse into the local communities traditional Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle.
Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, including Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, which house sacred relics and intricate murals and offer serene surroundings for meditation and spiritual contemplation.
Witness breathtaking views of towering Himalayan peaks, such as Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Buddha Himal, among others, as you traverse through the picturesque landscapes of the Tsum Valley.
Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the local ethnic communities, predominantly the Tsumbas, who have preserved their unique traditions, language, and customs over generations.

Reasons for it being Less Crowded:

The remote location and limited accessibility of the Tsum Valley contribute to its lesser popularity among mainstream trekkers, resulting in a more secluded and peaceful trekking experience.
The restricted access and the requirement of a special permit to enter the Tsum Valley help control the number of visitors, ensuring the preservation of the valley's natural and cultural heritage.
The challenging nature of the trek, including steep ascents and descents, high-altitude passes, and rugged terrain, makes it more suitable for experienced trekkers seeking adventure and solitude.

Trek Link: https://www.beyondthelimitstreks.com/tsum-valley-trek

4. Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake Trek:

The Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a captivating journey that combines the beauty of the Langtang region with the serenity of Gosaikunda Lake. Situated in the central part of Nepal, this trek offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences.

The trek begins in the village of Syabrubesi, where you'll embark on a scenic trail that winds through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced fields. As you ascend, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Langtang Lirung, the highest mountain in the region.

The Langtang Valley is known for its warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to interact with the Tamang and Sherpa communities, who will welcome you with open arms and share their traditions and way of life. You'll have the chance to visit ancient monasteries and witness religious ceremonies, gaining a deeper understanding of the local culture.

As you make your way back, you'll retrace your steps through the Langtang Valley, enjoying the stunning landscapes and the ever-changing views of the mountains. The trek offers a sense of tranquility and a chance to reconnect with nature as you traverse through alpine meadows, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls.

The Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake Trek is considered a moderate-level trek, suitable for trekkers with a moderate fitness level and some previous hiking experience. The trek takes around 12-14 days to complete, depending on the chosen itinerary and trekking pace.

Highlights and Attractions:

Explore the Langtang Valley, surrounded by majestic peaks like Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal, and witness the region's unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures.
Visit the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters set amidst a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the Langtang region, including rhododendron forests, wildflowers, and the chance to spot rare wildlife such as the red panda and Himalayan black bear.

Reasons for it being Less Crowded:

The Langtang Valley with Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a less popular choice than the Everest and Annapurna regions, making it less crowded and offering a more peaceful and serene trekking experience.
The trek requires a moderate level of fitness, which may deter casual trekkers, contributing to its lesser crowd compared to more challenging routes.

Trek Link: https://www.beyondthelimitstreks.com/langtang-gosaikunda-trek

5. Everest Three-Pass Trek:

The Everest Three Pass Trek is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Everest region of Nepal. As the name suggests, this trek involves crossing three high mountain passes - Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass - offering trekkers an unparalleled experience of the Everest region from different perspectives.

The trek begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a trek to the iconic Namche Bazaar. From there, you'll embark on a scenic journey through the Khumbu Valley, passing through picturesque Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and towering peaks.

One of the Everest Three Pass Trek highlights is reaching the base camp of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest. Standing at the foot of this majestic mountain is an awe-inspiring experience that leaves trekkers with a profound sense of accomplishment. The trek also takes you to other notable landmarks, including Kala Patthar, a popular vantage point for panoramic views of Everest, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise glacial lakes nestled amidst the Himalayas.

The three mountain passes - Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass - pose a thrilling challenge for trekkers. These high-altitude passes require endurance, proper acclimatization, and good fitness. However, the reward is immense, as you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and many others.

In addition to the stunning mountain views, the Everest Three Pass Trek offers opportunities to immerse yourself in Sherpa culture and hospitality. You'll have the chance to visit traditional Sherpa villages, interact with locals, and learn about their unique way of life. The trek also takes you through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity, including rare wildlife and vibrant flora.

Due to the challenging nature of the trek, the Everest Three Pass Trek sees fewer crowds than the popular Everest Base Camp Trek. The remote and rugged terrain and the need for proper preparation deter casual trekkers, allowing you to experience the pristine beauty of the Everest region in a more secluded and authentic way.

Highlights and Attractions:

Reach iconic viewpoints like Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other majestic peaks.
Cross three high mountain passes, Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass, each providing thrilling challenges and stunning vistas.
Explore the legendary Sherpa villages of Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Thame, gaining insights into their rich culture, traditions, and warm hospitality.

Reasons for it being Less Crowded:

The Everest Three Pass Trek requires a high fitness level and prior experience, making it less accessible for casual trekkers.
The challenging nature of the trek, including high altitudes, steep ascents and descents, and long hiking days, contributes to its fewer visitors than more popular Everest routes.

Trek Link: https://www.beyondthelimitstreks.com/everest-three-pass-trek

6. Khopra Danda Trek:

The Khopra Danda Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a unique and off-the-beaten-path trekking experience. This trek takes you to the stunning Khopra Ridge, also known as Khopra Danda, which provides panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

The trek starts in Nayapul, where you'll follow a trail that winds through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced fields. As you ascend, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of towering peaks, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South. The highlight of the trek is reaching Khopra Danda, a ridge perched at an elevation of 3,660 meters (12,008 feet), which offers uninterrupted vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

One of the unique aspects of the Khopra Danda Trek is the chance to stay in community-managed lodges and homestays. These accommodations provide an authentic cultural experience, allowing you to interact with the local Gurung and Magar communities and gain insight into their way of life. You'll have the opportunity to savor traditional Nepali cuisine and learn about their customs and traditions.

To make the most of the Khopra Danda Trek, it is recommended to have a moderate level of fitness and previous trekking experience. The trek involves daily ascents and descents, with some steep sections, but the rewarding views and cultural encounters make it well worth the effort.

Highlights and Attractions:

Enjoy breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from the vantage point of Khopra Ridge.
Visit the sacred Khayer Lake, surrounded by serene natural beauty and considered a hidden gem in the Annapurna region.
Experience the warm hospitality of the local Gurung and Magar communities, immersing yourself in their rich culture and traditions.

Reasons for it being Less Crowded:

The Khopra Danda Trek is a less-known and off-the-beaten-path route in the Annapurna region, attracting fewer trekkers than popular trails like Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill.
Limited teahouse facilities along the route and the need for camping in some sections may deter some trekkers, contributing to its lower crowd.

Trek Link: https://www.beyondthelimitstreks.com/khopra-danda-trek

7. Nar Phu Valley Trek:

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a captivating and less-crowded trekking adventure that takes you to the remote and pristine Nar and Phu valleys in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers a unique opportunity to explore untouched landscapes, experience rich cultural traditions, and witness breathtaking mountain vistas.

The trek begins in the village of Koto, where you'll follow a trail that gradually ascends into the Nar and Phu valleys. As you venture deeper into the canyons, you'll be surrounded by towering peaks, including Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The rugged terrain, deep gorges, and dramatic rock formations add to the allure of this trek.

The Nar Phu Valley is also known for its diverse and stunning landscapes. You'll trek through dense forests, cross suspension bridges over roaring rivers, and traverse high mountain passes. Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes, creating a picturesque setting for your trekking adventure.

Due to its remote location and restricted access, the Nar Phu Valley Trek sees fewer trekkers compared to other popular treks in the region. This adds to its charm and allows for a more tranquil and immersive experience. You'll have the trails and villages to yourself, and you'll be able to soak in the untouched beauty of the surroundings undisturbed.

While the Nar Phu Valley Trek offers incredible natural and cultural experiences, it is considered a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness and previous trekking experience. The high altitudes, steep ascents and descents, and rugged terrain demand a certain level of endurance. Proper acclimatization and carrying essential trekking gear are crucial for a successful and safe journey.

Highlights and Attractions:

Traverse high mountain passes like Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass provide stunning vistas of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges.
Encounter unique landscapes, including barren cliffs, deep canyons, and vast alpine meadows, creating a contrasting and awe-inspiring trekking experience.

Reasons for it being Less Crowded:

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a restricted area that requires a special permit, which limits the number of trekkers and helps preserve the pristine environment and cultural heritage. The challenging nature of the trek, including high altitudes and demanding terrains, attracts experienced trekkers, resulting in fewer crowds compared to popular treks in the Annapurna region.

Trek Link: https://www.beyondthelimitstreks.com/nar-phu-valley-trekking

Best Time To Do These Treks:

Like any other trekking destination, these less explored trails of remote Nepal are also best trekked in Spring and Autumn time. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons to travel in Nepal for several reasons:

Weather: During spring and autumn, Nepal experiences stable weather conditions with relatively low chances of rainfall and clear skies. This allows for excellent visibility of the mountains, stunning panoramic views, and favorable trekking conditions.

Temperature: In spring and autumn, temperatures in Nepal are generally moderate, making it comfortable for trekking. The days are pleasantly warm, especially at lower altitudes, while nights may be cooler but manageable with proper gear.

Blooming Nature: Spring is a vibrant season in Nepal as the rhododendron forests burst into colorful blooms, creating a picturesque landscape. Autumn, on the other hand, offers clear skies and crisp air, which enhances the visibility of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Festivals: Nepal is known for its rich cultural heritage, and trekking during spring and autumn allows you to witness and even participate in various cultural festivals and celebrations, such as Holi and Dashain. This adds a unique artistic element to your trekking experience.

Tea Houses and Facilities: Spring and autumn are popular trekking seasons, so the tea houses along the trekking routes are fully operational and well-stocked. You'll find many accommodation options, food choices, and basic amenities along the trails.

Accessibility: The higher mountain passes, and high-altitude regions are generally more accessible and safer during spring and autumn. Heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions during winter and monsoon seasons can make certain trekking routes challenging or even closed.

Customization of These Trips:

Customizing treks with Beyond The Limits is relatively easy and convenient. Beyond The Limits is a reputable trekking agency in Nepal known for its expertise in organizing customized trekking itineraries based on individual preferences, requirements, and time constraints.

Here's why customizing treks with us is a great option:

Tailor-made Itineraries: Beyond The Limits understands that every trekker has unique preferences and goals. We offer the flexibility to tailor-make trekking itineraries to suit your specific needs. Whether you want to modify the duration, add extra days for acclimatization, or include additional destinations or activities, their experienced team can assist you in creating a personalized itinerary.

Expert Guidance: Beyond The Limits has a team of experienced trekking guides well-versed in the region's terrain, weather, and cultural aspects. We can provide expert advice and suggestions for customizing your trek, ensuring a safe and rewarding experience.

Accommodation and Logistics: Beyond The Limits handles all the necessary logistics, including accommodation, permits, transportation, and meals, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trek. We have established relationships with tea houses and lodges along the trekking routes, ensuring comfortable and reliable accommodation options.

Safety and Support: Safety is a top priority for Beyond The Limits. Our guides are trained in first aid and mountain rescue techniques and carry essential safety equipment during treks. If you customize your trek, we will consider factors such as altitude, weather conditions, and difficulty to ensure your safety throughout the journey.

Local Insights and Cultural Experiences: Beyond The Limits values cultural immersion and strives to provide meaningful interactions with local communities. can customize your trek to include opportunities for experiencing local traditions, festivals, and interactions with ethnic communities.

To customize your trek with Beyond The Limits, you can communicate your preferences, requirements, and any specific requests to our team. We will work closely with you to design an itinerary that aligns with your expectations and ensures a memorable trekking experience in Nepal.