A Himalayan nation Nepal offers diverse trekking experiences for trekkers around the world. Trekking in Nepal is a dream for many adventure lovers and only a few gets an opportunity to fulfill their dream. Trekkers’ experience in Nepal ranges from the easiest to the most challenging. Undeniably, the challenging treks are adventurous and worthy.

The height of ecstasy for the trekkers while trekking to the mountains in Nepal is unparalleled. The treks are challenging due to the factors like high altitude, isolated and uneven trails, tricky zigzag roads, extended walking hours, and adjusting to the basic and limited accommodation. Trekkers must adapt and adjust to all these factors if they wish to do an adventurous trek in Nepal. No doubt, these treks are challenging but sure to guarantee a lifetime of unforgettable memories.

So, get ready to explore challenging yet adventurous treks in Nepal. Get your backpacks ready, stretch the muscles, and start trekking to the destinations that take you from the diverse landscape, diverse flora and fauna, natural scenery, remote trails, and rugged paths, to the highest altitude in the vicinity of snow-capped mountains. Some of the daring adventurous treks in Nepal are listed below:

Upper Dolpo Trek

• Abundance of green lush meadows, subalpine and alpine forest
• The picturesque landscape of the Upper Himalayas, views of the Dhaulagiri Ranges, and snow-covered mountains
• An extraordinary range of flora and fauna in the Shey Phoksundo National Park
• Nepal’s deepest lake Shey Phoksundo and its glorious scenery
• Visit Shey Gompa, Saldan Gompa, and Yangze Gompa
• Caravans of yaks, mules, horses, and sheep for transportation
• Exploring pristine Tibetan Buddhist culture, lifestyle, and its monasteries
• Unique chord of rustic authentic villages

Upper Dolpo is one of the remote destinations in Nepal which is popular for camping trekking. The trek to Dolpo is adventurous due to its geographical diversity. At the same time, the trek to Dolpo is challenging due to its remote settlements, rough landscapes, many ascends and descends walks, long-hour walks, off-beat paths, and the highest passes Kang La Pass (5360m) and Numa La Pass (5310m). Mt. Dhaulagiri, Churen Himal, Norbung La Peak, and Tibetan plateau views during the trek are impressive.

The visit to the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa in the vicinity of the Shey Phosundo National Park after long hours of trekking is a pleasant experience. In this remote place, they use caravans of yaks, mules, horses, and sheep for transportation. The welcoming locals following Bon and Buddhist culture with very few settlements in this area is a new experience for the trekkers. The less explored Saldang and Yangze Gompa and the natural beauty of this region make the trekking experience to Dolpa more interesting.

Starting Point: Juphal

Required Permits:

• Restricted Area Permits (RAP) - Lower Dolpo and Upper Dolpo
• Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit

Kanchenjunga Trek

• Trek through terraced fields, pristine pine, and bamboo forests, lush grazing pastures, the prominent snow-clad massif of Kanchenjunga
• Wonderful scenery of the flowery forest of Rhododendron, Lilies, Primula, and Orchards
• Ethnic Culture and lifestyle of Rai and Limbu communities, warmth hospitality
• Recognized as one of the 200 global eco-regions by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
• Excursion to the highest pass Pang Pema (5140m)
• Relish the panoramic view of– Mt. Kanchenjunga, Kangbachen, Faktanglung Himal, Yalung, Kang, and other mountains

The world’s third highest mountain is Kanchenjunga which lies in the eastern part of Nepal-Sikkim (India). Kanchenjunga Trek is very demanding and adventurous due to its trails and topography. Kanchenjunga Trek is one of the longest treks as it takes long days to complete the trek. Very few trekkers trek to Kanchenjunga as it is isolated. Altitude sickness can be a threat and one must be well-prepared for it. This trek is physically demanding as it has many ascends and descends. Hence, one must be physically & mentally fit and healthy.

This trek is abundant with natural beauty, Sherpa settlements, their culture, and lifestyle, essential medicinal herbs, grazing yaks, and unexplored trails. The diverse geography with rugged landscapes makes a unique trekking experience. To walk on glaciers in the vicinity of rhododendron forest and high alpine passes is wonderful. Kanchenjunga Conservation Project Area is home to many species of flora and fauna. Recognized as one of the 200 global eco-regions by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

The highest pass in Kanchenjunga Trek is Pang Pema (5140m) and awesome views of Mt. Kanchenjunga from here. Trekkers get to see stunning views of mountains like Mt. Kanchenjunga, Kangbachen, Faktanglung Himal, Yalung, Kang, and other mountains. Traverse through Selele Pass to explore Pang Pema Base Camp in the north and Oktang Base Camp to the south. Kanchenjunga Trek is suitable for trekkers wishing to get a break from busy crowded life. The trails are less explored hence peaceful and full of adventure and challenges.

Starting Point: Sukhetar

Required Permits:

• Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit
• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP)

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

• High alpine pastures, hidden valleys, high windswept passes, forests, and cultivated terraced hills
• Traverse two highest passes French Pass (5360m) and Thapa/ Dhampus Pass (5244m)
• Explore remote farm villages and trek through diverse landscapes
• Spectacular views of Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m)
• Experience the rich, indigenous Thakali culture in Kaligandaki valley

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a camping trekking perfect for adventure and challenge lovers. The rocky trek route is very tough and demands trekkers with good physical fitness to trek around.  The off-beat paths, remote areas, rough trails, diverse topography, steep ascends, long descends, high-altitude passes, moraines and glaciers, and long walking hours make this trek challenging and adventurous at the same time. Altitude sickness also may cause and precautions must be taken wisely.

The world’s seventh highest mountain Dhaulagiri and its ranges, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, and Gurja Himal are major attractive mountains in this trek. Besides, the adventurous and challenging part is to pass the two highest passes French Pass (5360m) and Dhampus Pass (5244m). The trek ends at Jomsom. So, trekkers can experience the diverse landscape and stunning natural views during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Also, get pleased with the warm hospitality and culture of local Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis.

Starting Point: Darbang Village

Required Permits:

• Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)

Everest Three Passes Trek

• Adventurous, challenging, and popular
• Trek through 3 passes Renjola Pass (5,360m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535m)
• Unique culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa people
• Sparkling, pristine blue and green waters of the Gokyo Lakes in the Gokyo Valley
• World-renowned Khumbu Glacier, Khumbu Icefall
• Stunning and intense panoramic mountain views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Pumori, and Mt. Ama Dablam from Kala Patthar

Everest Three Passes Trek is a completely adventurous and challenging trek in the Everest Region. The main attraction of the trek is the three highest passes Kongma La (5535m), Cho La (5420m), and Renjo La (5360m). The trek to these passes is very demanding but exciting as trekkers trek from one pass to another pass witnessing surrounding stunning views of snow-capped mountains. The ultimate goal is to reach Everest Base Camp (5364m) and Kalapatthar (5644.5m) to get close-up views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and other mountains.

The Everest Three Passes Trek offers exclusive views of Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Lake, Ngozumpa Glacier, Khumbu Glacier, Khumbu Icefall, Gokyo Peak, and snowy mountains all in one trek. Altitude is a challenge for this trek but with proper acclimatization rest and precautions, trekkers can easily deal with it. The trek also has basic accommodation facilities at teahouses. The interaction with local Sherpas gives new learnings about their culture, lifestyle, and tradition.

Starting Point: Lukla

Required Permits:

• Sagarmatha National Park Entrance
• Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance

Upper Mustang Trek

• Visit the ancient former forbidden Kingdom of Lo-Manthang
• Mix terrain of snow-capped mountains, barren high plateaus, and deep canyons
• Exploring antique Bon / Buddhist cultures of Tibetan origin, tradition, and lifestyle
• Experiencing the Himalayan desert of Nepal
• Spectacular views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak
• Discover the ruins of old forts, monasteries rich in art and history, and caves replete with magnificent religious statues
• ‘Tiji Festival’ during the season performs a ritual dance in customs, masks 

Upper Mustang is very remote and has the ancient former forbidden Kingdom Lo Manthang. Upper Mustang is also popular as the Himalayan desert of Nepal. This area was restricted to travel till 1992 A.D. Still limited trekkers can travel within a year and have to pay the permit entrance fee. Upper Mustang Trek is a unique experience for trekkers as it is less traveled, the rugged landscape, diverse natural scenery, and trek to Lo-Manthang are magical. The Tibetan lifestyle, tradition, culture, and people following Bon and Buddhist religion.

Upper Mustang Trek is a different experience for trekkers comparing other trek destinations in Nepal. Because of its unexplored and unspoiled landscape with cold breezing altitude and very limited resources, the trek to this place is a new and memorable experience. The lengthy trek days in this isolated place are challenging but the surrounding beauty and only limited resources to use make this trek adventurous. A visit to the Forbidden Kingdom Lo-Manthang and witness ancient caves, monasteries, ruins of old forts, and witness the lifestyle of people living there. Admire the spectacular views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak. Participate in the “Tiji Festival” during the season. Upper Mustang Trek is the best way to explore the least explored destinations of Nepal that has great historic and cultural significance.

Starting Point: Jomsom

Required Permits:
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) - US$ 500 (for min. 10 days and $50 additional cost per day)

Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek

• Rough Himalayan routes, Glacial Moraines, Beautiful Landscape
• The alpine lakes, high pastures, waterfalls, hanging glaciers, and the views of the snowcapped mountains in the background
  Stunning Tsho Rolpa Glacier Lake
• Highest pass Tashi Lapcha (5755m)
• Splendid view of the mountains- Rolwaling Himal, Mt. Gaurishankar, Mt. Dorje Lakpa, Choba Bhamare peak, Melungtse peak, Pachermo peak, and Yalung Ri

Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek is a tent camping trekking in the Rolwaling valley and the Khumbu region. The long day trekking journey is very tough but thrilling for adventure lovers. The trekkers must have great physical fitness as there are many ascends and descends. The views from the highest pass Tashi Lapcha (5755m) are very impressive. The trail consists of rough Himalayan routes. The glacial moraines, beautiful landscapes, and Sherpa villages in the vicinity of Rolwaling Peak, Gaurishankar Peak, Tengi Ragi Tau, Mt. Melungtse, Mt. Dorje Lakpa, and other mountains give a remarkable trekking experience. Another attraction of this trek is Tsho Rolpa Lake. Very few trekkers dare to trek Rolwaling via Tashi Lapcha Pass because trekkers require some technical mountaineering skills. But no doubt, this trek is a great combination of adventures and challenges.

Starting Point: Shigati

Required Permits:

• Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project
• Sagarmatha National Park

Everest Amphu Lapcha Pass

• Especial trek destination for adventure lovers
• An isolated yet unique experience for trekkers in the Khumbu region
• Spectacular close-up views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and 19 other snowy mountains in the Everest region
  Highest Pass Amphu Lapcha (5845m)
• Stunning views of Mt. Lhotse, Island Peak, Imja Glacier, Honku Valley, Makalu, Thamserku, Panch Pokhari Lakes

Everest Amphu Lapcha Pass is a very challenging and adventurous trek in the Khumbu region. This trek is especially for adventure-seeking trekkers who wish for daring challenges as well. This trek requires technical mountaineering skills as it is very risky. Traverse through the highest pass Amphu Lapcha (5845m) is a major highlight of this trek. From the summit of the pass, get stunning views of Mt. Lhotse, Island Peak, Imja Glacier, Honku Valley, Makalu, Thamserku, Everest, and many more. To experience this Everest Amphu Lapcha Pass Trek, one must be physically fit and healthy. The high altitude can be troublesome but with appropriate prevention, nothing is going to happen. The accommodation for this trek is teahouses and tent camping at high altitudes. This trek meets the full criteria of adventurous and challenging treks in Nepal for trekkers around the world.

Starting Point: Lukla

Required Permits:

• Sagarmatha National Park Entrance
• Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance

Makalu Base Camp Trek

• Off-beat trails, Less crowded
• Attractive Himalayan landscapes, and Sherpa and Rai villages
• Pristine ethnic culture, the lifestyle of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu
• Excursion to Makalu Base Camp (5050m)
• Stunning panoramic view of the mountains Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Kutumsang, Baruntse, Chamlang
• Makalu Barun National Park, various flora and fauna and encounter the endangered Clouded Leopard, Red Panda, Musk Deer

Makalu Base Camp Trek is abundant with ecosystem diversity, natural beauty, stunning mountain vistas, and pristine ethnic culture. The major attraction of this trek is less crowded and off-beat trails. Many species of flora and fauna can be found in the Makalu National Park and Conservation Area. The superb clear views of the world’s fifth highest Mt. Makalu, Lhotse, Baruntse, Chamlang, and other mountains from the Makalu Base Camp (5050m). This trek is challenging due to the steep and rugged trails, isolated, and high altitudes. Altitude sickness is common at this altitude but immediate precautions can help to heal better. The trek journey can be tiring due to continuous walking on many stairs. Thus, trekkers must be physically healthy and fit. The different village settlements of Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa during the trek offer great insight into their culture, tradition, religion, and lifestyle. Makalu Base Camp Trek is challenging and adventurous at the same time.

Starting Point: Tumlingtar

Required Permits:

• Makalu Rural Municipality Permit
• Makalu National Park and Conservation Area Permit

“Take only memories; leave nothing but footprints”- Chief Seattle.