11 Best Himalaya Base Camp Treks in Nepal

#1: Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC)

Of course, we’re starting with the Everest base camp trek to the highest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest aka Sagarmatha (8,848.86 m. Nearly 30,000 to 40,000 tourists opt for this trekking package.  

Along with the base camp (5,364 m), you even reach Kala Patthar, which is the highest point of this journey at an elevation of 5,644m. This makes it one of the best base camp treks in Nepal.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is strenuous considering its long trekking hours and high-altitude Khumbu region. Situated in the Sagarmatha National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you might get the chance to see animals like red panda, snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, marten, Himalayan mouse hare (pika), and over 118 species of birds. 

Your journey begins with a flight to the most dangerous airport in the world, Tenzing-Hillary Airport, located in Lukla, Solukhumbu. Once you’re here, your trek begins towards Namche Bazaar via Phakding.   

After reaching Namche, which serves as the tourist hub for both the Everest summiteers and EBC trekkers, you’ll move towards Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep before reaching the base camp.

During this hiking period, you get to interact with the Sherpa community, who are known all over the world for their endurance and talent. They start as your guides but eventually turn out to be your best buds after completing a trek together.

After reaching the Mt. Everest Base Camp, you’ll return to Gorak Shep again before heading towards the highlight of the trek, which is Kala Patthar. The panoramic views of Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Pumori (7,165 m), Thamerku (6,608 m), and other peaks are totally worth it throughout the trek.

Besides the regular base Camp trek itinerary, you even get to customize your own trip to visit nearby landmarks, like Gokyo Lakes, Nangkartshang Peak, Pikey Peak, etc.

In fact, you can even go for the Everest Circuit Trek, which is much longer and can take anywhere from 17 to 20 days. So, it’s best that you consult your travel agency for such packages. 

#2: Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC)

Often compared with the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC Trek) has grown immense popularity over the year. It is another one of the best base camp treks in Nepal. Since it is moderately difficult and is much easier to do than the EBC Trek, many opt for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek instead. 

Especially, if you’re here during the peak or the best trekking season in Nepal, the blooming rhododendrons shall mesmerize you right away. It’s not that other treks don’t offer this view, but ABC is mainly known for this and we highly recommend doing the trek at least once if you’re in Nepal.

Even during the peak winter, ABC looks breathtaking. The surrounding mountain ranges comprising Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Machhapuchre/Fishtail (6,993 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and other peaks are sure to melt your eyes & heart!

And if you paid close attention to the Himalayan trekking guide in the aforementioned table, you even get to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp, another Himalaya Base Camp during this trek.

Your trek starts from the tourism capital of Nepal, Pokhara after a drive from Kathmandu. From here, you’ll reach Nayapul and then there are multiple ways to reach the MBC and ABC base camps. 

The best approach is to reach Tikhedhunga via Birethati. In this way, you’ll reach Ghorepani and Poon Hill via Ulleri (which are the highlights of the ABC trek).

Once you’re done with that, you’ll trek towards Chhomrong Village via Tadapani the following day. Then, continue towards Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Dovan. The day after this is when you reach Machhapuchare Base Camp followed by Annapurna Base Camp.

Upon return, you’ll take the Bamboo route toward Jhinu Danda which offers natural hot spring. It’s the most relaxing way to end the trip before you head to Pokhara and then Kathmandu within the next few days. 

Since you’ll be in Annapurna CA, it's mandatory for you to have a TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card. Along with that, you’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) too.

While the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is a short and refreshing journey, many tourists opt for the Annapurna Circuit instead, That way, you even get to the other regions of Annapurna, like Manang, Tilicho Lake, Thorang La Pass, Muktinath, Mustang, and Ghandruk Village.

#3: Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek 

While Mardi Himal (5,587 m) itself is just a peak rather than a mountain, its popularity has made it to this list. When you do this trek, you’ll be more mesmerized by getting a glimpse of Mt. Machhapuchre/Fishtail (6,993 m), which is prominently at the top of this Mardi Himal peak. 

Besides, you’ll even get glimpses of the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and Himchuli (6,441 m) mountains. And since the trek is easier than anyone on this list, it’s worth doing, even for beginners. 

This trek can be completed within three to five days from Pokhara, depending on your physical fitness and walking capability. If you’ve come to Nepal just for some short trips, make sure to include Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek in your bucket list. 

There are multiple itineraries available. Most guests take the route from Pokhara to Kande and hike towards Australian Base Camp before reaching Pothana, followed by Forest Camp. However, newer trails have been introduced these days, which makes Mardi Base Camp Trek to be complete in an even shorter duration.

You can go via Pittam Deurali and directly reach Forest Camp or even choose the Kalimati route to Forest Camp, which is even shorter. Some even prefer taking the Siddhing Village way that leads directly to the Low Camp of this Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. 

Once you’re in Low Camp, you’ll proceed towards Badal Danda, from where it’s just a few hour's walk to the High Camp. The sunset from both these spots is amazing and you’ll feel like you’re in cloud nine. 

Make sure you don’t miss the sunrise when you’re doing this trek as it’s one of the best in Nepal. However, you have to reach the MardiHimal Upper View Point (4,200 m). You can walk for two more hours to reach the base camp (4,500 m). Then, return using the same route. 

You’ll find lodges and even hotels all the way to the High Camp during this Nepal Himalaya Trek (no stays in Base Camp though). So, it’s a perfect alternative to the crowded Annapurna Base Camp too. 

#4: Manaslu Base Camp Trek 

Usually, you won’t find only the Manaslu Base Camp trek package as this trek is better done with the inclusion of Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), which is one of the longest passes in the Himalayas. 

So, we suggest going for this Himalaya Base Camp if you’re all set to do the recently popular, Manaslu Circuit Trek Larkya Pass. With the views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m),  Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), and Shring (7,187 m), we promise that this trek shall be worth the challenge.  

Often regarded as the ‘off-the-beaten’ trekking, Manaslu Base Camp falls in one of the very few restricted regions of Nepal. That’s the reason there’s so much confusion among the permits.

As per the latest update of 2025, you need four special permits, RAP (for passing in the restricted region), MCAP (conservation area entry), Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit (newly introduced since you’ll be in the municipality), and ACAP (since some parts of this circuit trek takes your to the Annapurna CA). 

If you remember, entering Annapurna CA also requires a TIMS card, which is why this Himalaya Base Camp Trek also requires TIMS. Don’t worry and just submit all your necessary documents and multiple passport-sized photographs to your trekking agency as they are responsible for managing it.

While we might have complicated things by mentioning these permits, you don’t have to stress about it at all. Once you reach the highlight of the trek, i.e. Larkya La Pass, you’ll know it’s worth coming for.

Many guests even like to include Tsum Valley in this trip. But do keep in mind that when doing so, you’ll have to arrange yourself with an extra permit. 

#5: Makalu Base Camp Trek 

While both the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp are overcrowded (especially during the peak season), Makalu Base Camp serves as a perfect spot for peace lovers.  

It serves as the home to the fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu (8,485 m). Nonetheless, you can still peak into other highest ranges around the region, like Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Baruntse (7,129 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), etc.

Your trekking in Nepal begins with a flight to Tumlingtar in the Sankhuwasabha District. From here, you’ll drive to Sedhuwa, and only then, the trek starts passing through Tashi Gaun, Khongma, Dobato, Yangle Kharka, Langmale Kharka, and finally the Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m.

You’ll get to meet and interact with the Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu communities when you’re in this region. Since the base camp trek to Makalu Base Camp is in the Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area, you’ll require a pass along with the TIMS card, just like with the ABC trek.

While this trek offers less crowd, the remote terrains of the Himalayan trekking routes can make it a bit challenging to complete. You have to be extremely wary about altitude sickness considering the fact that there are hardly any health facilities around the area.

The highlight of this trek is the unique landscape that no other trek offers, and the higher chances to see the wildlife in the conservation area. Snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan wolves, and Assamese macaques are some examples.

#6: Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek 

Kanchenjunga Base Camp is in the easternmost part of the country in the Taplejung District. Since not many tourists opt for this Himalaya Base Camp Trek, it’s guaranteed to offer an adventure like other ones on the list.

You’ll get to see the majestic views of the third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga itself (8,586 m), along with Yalung Kang (8,505 m), Kambachen (7,903 m), Jongsong (7,462 m), Kabru (7,412 m), Kumbakarna (7,710 m), Twins (7,350 m), etc.

The journey of this remote and restricted region trek begins after a short flight to Bhadrapur, Jhapa followed by a drive to Kanyam and then Taplejung. After crossing the Tamor River Bridge, you’ll start your trek towards Sukethum. 

Then, after commuting with Lepchas, Sherpa, Tamang, Rai, and Limbu ethnic groups and passing through the villages of Amjilossa, Gyabala, Ghunsa, Khambachen, Lhonak, and Pangpema, you’ll reach the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at an elevation of 5,143 m. 

You can take the same path for return or go for a complete circuit of Kanchanjunga with extended days (this depends on the package offered by your travel agency). If you follow this approach, you shall descend to Ghunsa before ascending to High Camp, Mirgin La Pass, Tseram, Ramche, and finally to Oktang (Kanchenjunga South Base Camp). 

With all these things in mind, it’s sure that the trek is going to be long with a loaded backpack. And since it also comprises another off-the-beaten trail, the trek’s difficulty is even more difficult compared to anyone in this list. 

#7: North Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

While the main Annapurna Base Camp Trek has long been on the bucket list of many trekkers, the North Annapurna Base Camp has only just been popular. Considering this, the trail is completely remote and you have to set up tents in order to sleep.

While setting up camps might be a big no-no to a lot of you, the North ABC trek is actually not that hard and even beginners can go for it.

Just like the ABC trek, the North ABC trek also starts from a drive to Pokhara. Then, you’ll take the Tatopani route and begin your hike from Narchyang Village.

The first day does offer a homestay. But after this, in the trails of Chhotepa and Sandhikharka, there are no lodges or even tea houses. That’s the reason you have to be mentally prepared for this Himalaya base camp trek in Nepal.

The main highlight of this trip is the increasingly popular Pancha Kunda Lake or also known as the Narchyang Lake, which looks absolutely breathtaking. Note that the lake isn’t just beautiful but even holds religious significance among both the Hindu and Buddhist communities. 

Along with that, the North ABC trek offers stunning views of a series of mountains, including North Nilgiri (7061 m), Nilgiri Central (6940 m), Nilgiri South (6839 m), Tilicho Peak (7134 m), Bharha Chuli (7647 m), Khangsar Kang (7485 m), and the Annapurna I (8091 m).

#8: Api Base Camp Trek 

It’s safe to say that this Himalaya Base Camp Trek is one of the virgin destinations of the far-western region of Nepal. Located in the Darchula district, the terrains are remote and you have to set up camps throughout the trek.

While the journey itself isn’t that difficult, reaching the starting point itself poses challenges and risks. Nepal’s road condition isn’t the best and you have to adjust yourself to a few days of off-road drive. In fact, you’ll even have to do the hassle of changing multiple vehicles.

The Api Base Camp trip begins by first flying to Dhangadi. From here, you’ll drive to Attariya and then to Makarigaad via Ganna, which can take more than 24 hours considering the road conditions that we mentioned earlier.  

There are other alternative routes to this place as well. So, the road itinerary isn’t guaranteed. It completely depends on the situation and road condition. You have to be prepared for that as well.

At the moment, Makarigaad starts as the starting point for all trekkers. From here, you’ll first reach Ghusa, followed by Simar, Dhuli Odar, and finally to Api Base Camp (3860 m). 

See, it just takes three days to reach the destination (two days, if you have prior experience). Once you explore the region, don’t forget to push up to Kali Dhunga Lake, which is the highlight of this trek at an elevation of 4,000 m.

When you’re here, the diverse landscape and the views of Mt. Api (7,132 m), Mt. Kapchuli (6,850 m), Mt. Rajama (6,537m), and Mt. Thado Dhunga Tuppa (5,368m) will mesmerize you. The place might be remote but it’s sure to fill your hearts with joy.

The region mainly includes ethnic groups of Jhakari, Lohar, Bohora, Chhetri, Thekare, Mahara, and Brahmin. But since the route itself is remote and the place lacks development, you might find yourself with communication issues. Thus, always stick with the guide you have been assigned by your travel agency.  

During return, you’ll pay a visit to Khaikot, which is the last local village. From here, you’ll continue on the same path. Once you reach, Makarigad, get ready for another long drive to Dhangadi, followed by a flight to the capital.   

#09: Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek 

Depending on the trekking agency, the duration of Ganesh Himal Trek can vary. You can find anywhere from 8 days to 18 days base camp trek itinerary. But since this Himalaya Base Camp is very close to Kathmandu, we believe that 8 days should be more than enough.

The journey begins from Kathmandu itself and leads you to Syapru Beshi, a popular tourist hub, which also serves as the starting point of the very famous Langtang Valley Trek. These days, the road has been constructed up to Gatlang, so a hike won’t be necessary up to this point.   

After reaching Gatlang, you have to proceed towards Somdang, Pangsang Phedi, Pangsang Pass, Shertung, Hindung, Rajgang Kharka, and reach Kalo Seto Kunda. You’ll cross the highest altitude of the trek, Pangsang Pass at 3,842 m before a few kilometer walks to Ganesh Himal Base Camp, which is at an elevation of 3,774 m.   

If you’ve picked the appropriate season for this Himalaya Base Camp Trek, you should be blessed with the view of all four Ganesh Range peaks, which are Ganesh Himal I (7,422 m), Ganesh Himal II (7,118 m), Ganesh Himal III (7,110 m), and Ganesh Himal IV (7,052 m).  

Not just that. Even Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Langtang Lirung (7,300 m), Lamjung Himal (6,800 m), Shringi Himal (7,161 m), and Boudha Himal (6,672 m) are clearly seen from the top. 

You’ll get to meet a variety of ethnic groups, mainly Tamang, Gurung, Ghale, Brahmin, Chhetri, Dalit, Newar, and Chepang. You’d be surprised to know that in such a short duration from Kathmandu, there’s so much to explore.

The return trip is the same, and what makes this region unique is that there are nearly 526 species of plants and 300 species of birds. Basically, it’s a part of the Langtang National Park, and you’ll need exactly the same permits required to do the Langtang Valley or Gosaikunda treks.

Many even include Ruby Valley when doing this trek. So, if you’re interested in that, don’t hesitate to reach out to your travel agency. 

#10: Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek 

Just like the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it’s recommended to do a circuit trek for this Himalaya Base Camp. That’s because reaching Dhaulagiri Base Camp and returning the same route would simply not be a trekker’s thing to do. Allow us to explain. 

Your journey to the base camp of the seventh-highest peak in the world, Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m) starts from a drive to Dharapani from Kathmandu. The same final destination that we mentioned earlier of the Manaslu Base Camp.  

From here, your trekking in Nepal begins and you’ll go towards JugePani, Boghara, Dobang, and Sallaghari. Next, you’ll reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748 m), but you’ll first pass the popular Italian Base Camp (3,660 m) and Japanese Base Camp (4,300 m).

After properly exploring the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, you’ll cross two passes (i.e. French Pass at  5,360 m and Dhampus Pass at 5,258 m) before reaching Yak Kharka. Continuing on the journey takes you directly to Jomsom, Mustang. From here, you can drive back to Pokhara and extend your stay there or come to Kathmandu. 

This trek lets you soak in the beauty of the Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), Dhampus Peak (6,013 m), Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri IV (7,618m), and even the Annapurna Massif. Also, you’ll get to learn the lifestyle of the Gurungs, Chhetris, and Magars communities in the region. 

Lastly, the Manaslu Circuit and Manaslu Base Camp treks, the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is remote and will lead you to peace compared to the overcrowding of EBC and ABC hikes. 

#11: Churen Himal Base Camp Trek 

Churen Himal Base Camp is yet another virgin destination in the Himalayas, and very few tourists opt for it. It’s in the western region of Nepal and you’ll travel to both the Dolpa and Myagdi districts.

Starting with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (like many treks), you’ll proceed to Darbang Village next. Your hike starts the following day towards Takam Village and continues onwards to Lumsang Village, Gurjaghat, Rupachaur Kharka, Gurja Khani Village, Darsinge Kharka, and Bundzunge Kharka.

After passing all these villages and meeting Gurung, Magar, and Chhetris, you’ll reach Churen Himal Base Camp at 4,010 m. The return trip is the same. So, here’s a tip to you–leave your stuff at the hotels you stayed in and collect them later. This reduces the weight of your backpack and it becomes much easier to walk. 

The trail is still remote but new lodges are being built. So, even though you might get a chance to spend the night in teahouses, in the upper sections of the trek, you have to accommodate yourself in tents.

Nonetheless, the jaw-dropping views of the Churen Himal range, mainly the Churen Himal (7,371 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna (8,091 m), and Gurja Himal (7,193 m) make this trek worthwhile. Just make sure to stick with your guide at all times and try to explore the region by taking as much time as possible.  

Final Words

We truly hope you enjoyed reading the 11 best Himalaya Base Camp Trek in Nepal. However, this is not the end. There are countless other treks you can do in Nepal, like the Langtang Valley trek, Gosaikunda Trek, Phoksundo Lake Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Panch Pokhari Trek, and so much more. 

No matter which Himalaya Base Camp trek you’re going to choose, there are some things that you need to keep in mind. Allow us to share some of the tips in summary now, which are completely based on our experiences:

• Make sure to carry a proper trekking backpack, with only the necessary stuff that you need.
• For any extra baggage, don’t hesitate to hire a porter or a mule (depending on the location, whichever is available).
• There’s a tipping culture here in Nepal. So, kindly consider extending your budget accordingly.
• Prepare a packing list before even coming to Nepal. Make sure you carry winter clothes and proper quality trekking equipment.
• Otherwise, you can come to Nepal and buy your stuff or rent them in Kathmandu itself.
• There’s always a risk of altitude sickness. So, make a habit of sleeping in lower altitudes.
• Make sure you respect the traditions of the people in the rural and holy region. Some tips include taking off your shoes when getting inside the temples/gumbas, and greeting people with Namaste.
• Try visiting Nepal during the festive season to be more involved in the culture and lifestyle of the Nepalese community.
• Don’t just do one trek and live the country. There are other side trips that you can go for refreshment once you complete your adventure.
• Remember that the permits are handled by your trekking agency.
• However, if you’re seeking to make professional films or take drone shots, you need to get separate permits, which costs a little extra.
• Don’t bring anything from the restricted regions of national parks and conservation areas.
• Make sure you have travel insurance that also covers helicopter service (in case of an absolute emergency).
• Lastly, apply for a Nepal visa double the amount of time you’ll need for trekking in the Himalayas.

That’s all to know about the Nepal Himalaya Treks! We hope we helped you pick the right Himalaya Base Camp for you based on the difficulty level and duration of walks. 

Now, don’t think twice and start your preparation from today itself. Book your flight to Nepal right away!