Best 5-Day Treks in Nepal - Overview, Highlights, Itinerary

Ever dreamt of exploring Nepal but felt short on time? Well, you can still go on an epic adventure even with just a few days to spare.

There are amazing 5-day treks in Nepal perfect for delving into the heart of the Himalayas within a limited timeframe.

From the famous Annapurna region to the incredible Everest Base Camp, these treks guarantee amazing experiences. Apart from these classic destinations, the list also includes emerging off-the-beaten-path trails.

Get ready to soak in stunning views, meet new cultures, and maybe find inner peace along the way.

Find detailed information about each trek right here:

Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek

The Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek is one of the coolest five-day treks you can do.

Located in the north-central part of Nepal (Annapurna region), this trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.

The sunrise view from Poon Hill, a highlight of the trek, is simply spectacular.

But it’s not just about the views, it’s also about diving into Nepal’s rich culture. As you trek through villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk, you get a taste of traditional life–the stone houses, colorful prayer flags, and friendly locals.

Not to mention, this trek is easily accessible from Pokhara. With just a few hours of drive from Pokhara, you can quickly reach the starting point of the trek. So you can spend less time traveling and more time exploring.

Likewise, this trek is perfect for anyone with a moderate fitness level. The trails are well-kept, and the hikes are gradual. You’ll walk through lush forests of rhododendrons, terraced fields, and beautiful mountain villages.

Furthermore, teahouse accommodations along the route are comfortable and you’ll be given warm hospitality with delicious local cuisine.

No doubt, once you’ve done the Ghorepani Ghandruk trek, you’ll be eager to return for more.

Trip Highlights

• Experience the beauty of the sunrise standing atop Poon Hill. Poonhill is the perfect vantage point for witnessing this breathtaking sunrise view. As the sun rises, the majestic mountains turn into shimmering gold. The amazing view from this popular spot also lets you see the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.
• Explore the lower heartland of the Annapurna region, traversing through oak and rhododendron woodlands, alongside picturesque waterfalls and terraced fields adorned with season blooms. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Gurung and Magar communities as you stroll through their traditional villages.
• Soak yourself in the beauty of Ghandruk, a dreamy village surrounded by stunning mountains. From here, witness the grandeur of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Itinerary outline

Day 1:Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga

Day 2:Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Day 3:Trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3180m) and then to Tadapani

Day 4:Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk

Day 5:Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara

Mardi Himal Trek

Another incredible five-day trek in Nepal is the Mardi Himal Trek, close to the Pokhara city. With its breathtaking scenery, accessibility, rich biodiversity,off-the-beaten-path adventure, and growing popularity, this trek has captured the hearts of trekkers worldwide.

The Mardi Himal trek unfolds a panorama of natural marvels and wilderness in the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trek offers diverse landscapes, from lowland pastures to alpine forests adorned with rhododendrons, birch, and oak.

You’ll find a wide variety of plants and animals. The birdlife along the trekking path is diverse. Recent surveys counted 152 different types of birds there.

One of the significant advantages of the trek is its accessibility. Starting from Pokhara, the trek is easily reachable. Additionally, the trek’s moderate difficulty level makes it suitable for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike, adding to its appeal.

Unlike some of Nepal's more popular trekking routes, Mardi Trek lets us explore off-the-beaten-path areas. Away from the crowds, trekkers can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness.

Not to mention, this trek is worth considering.

Trip Highlights

• Feast your eyes on the majestic peaks of Annapurna I, Machhapuchre, Gangapurna, and Tharpu Chuli (Tent Peak) throughout the journey. These towering peaks dominate the skyline and give out the mesmerizing vistas typically only witnessed from more popular routes like the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
• Traverse through the rugged terrain meeting the indigenous communities of Gurung, Magar, and Thakali, getting insights into their traditional way of life, unique customs, cuisine, and hospitality.
• Trek through tranquil lowland pastures to wonderful rhododendron forests, and remote mountain villages to sweeping river valleys. Also, witness diverse flora and fauna.

Itinerary outline

Day 1:Drive from Pokhara to Kande, Trek to Deurali

Day 2:Trek from Deurali to Low Camp

Altitude: 3,035 m

Day 3:Trek from Low Camp to High Camp

Altitude: 3,580 m

Day 4:High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and Descent to Badal Danda

Altitude: 3210 m

Day 5:Descent from Badal Danda to Siding, Drive to Pokhara

Altitude: 820 m

Short ABC Trek

The short Annapurna Base Camp trek is a top-notch trekking adventure in Nepal. Within a short period, it captures the essence of the Annapurna region perfectly.

This trek is packed with mesmerizing mountain views, diverse landscapes, warm hospitality, and unique culture.

In just five days, trekkers are treated to wonderful vistas of towering peaks such as Annapurna I, III, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.

It’s not all about the mountains. Along the way, you’ll stroll past colorful rhododendrons, through bamboo forests, and across terraced fields.

In addition, you get to interact with the local communities, including the Gurung, Thakali, and Magar people. Their warm hospitality and unique culture make your trip more enjoyable.

Wondering if you can handle this trek? Fear not. The trails are well-maintained, and the difficulty level is moderate. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a rookie, you’ll find this trek doable.

This trek is a must-do for anyone craving an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Trip Highlights

• Experience breathtaking vistas of iconic peaks including Annapurna I, III, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hinchuli, and Gagapurna throughout the trek.
• Trek through the diverse landscapes, from river banks and colorful rhododendron blooms to bamboo forests, terraces, and pastures.
• Visit Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp where you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning scenery and spend a memorable night surrounded by majestic mountains.

Itinerary outline

Day 1:Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu and trek to lower Sinuwa

Altitude: 2,300 meters, Trek Duration: 5 hours

Day 2:Trek to Deurali from Lower Sinuwa

Altitude: 3200 meters, Trek Duration: 6 hours

Day 3:Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp Via Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Altitude: 4,130 meters, Trek Duration: 4 hours

Day 4:Sightseeing at Annapurna Base Camp and trek to Bamboo

Altitude: 2400 meters, Trek Duration: 6 hours

Day 5:Trek to Jhinu from Bamboo and Drive to Pokhara (hot spring stop)

Altitude: 822 meters, Trek Duration: 6 Hours

Short Everest Trek

This short Everest Trek is not only one of the best 5-day treks in Nepal but an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. In just five days, you’ll be among the tallest mountains in the world.

Beginning the journey with a breathtaking 35-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, this exhilarating start combines the convenience of flying with the adventure of trekking.

The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly the helicopter ride from Namche to Everest Base Camp. Landing at Kalapatthar not only provides breathtaking views but also adds luxury to the journey.

The trek encapsulates a varied experience–from the vibrant culture of the Sherpa people to the breathtaking landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park and panoramic views of majestic peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

Not to mention, this trek minimizes the risks associated with high-altitude sickness, making it accessible to a wider range of trekkers. Likewise, the trekking routes are in great shape and easy to follow. With some previous trekking experience, you can complete this trek without any difficulties.

This 5-day Everest Base Camp trek is a mini-adventure packed with big thrills. Make sure you don’t miss this!

Highlights of Short Everest Trek

• Experience a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and explore the bustling markets in Namche Bazaar. 
• Trek through picturesque landscapes of rhododendron forests and witness diverse flora and fauna in Sagarmatha National Park. Enjoy breathtaking views of iconic peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
• Experience a thrilling helicopter ride from Namche to Everest Base Camp, giving a 360-degree panorama of Mount Everest and the Khumbu Glacier, and visit the renowned Everest View Hotel for stunning vistas of the Himalayas.

Itinerary outline

Day 1:Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

Altitude: 2610 m, Trek Duration: 4 hours

Day 2:Trek to Namche Bazar

Altitude: 3440 m, Trek Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 3:Rest at Namche Bazaar and explore Thame Village

Altitude: 3750 m, Trek Duration: 4 hours

Day 4:Namche to Everest View Hotel and stay overnight at Everest View Hotel

Altitude: 3800 m, Trek Duration: 3 hours

Day 5:Namche to Everest Base Camp to Kala Pattar and return to Kathmandu by Helicopter

Altitude: 5545m, Trek Duration: 4 hours

Panch Pokhari Trek

Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes) Trek is a popular 5-day trek in Nepal. It’s a special place with five sacred lakes surrounded by tall mountains. It is more than just beautiful lakes, it’s a place of deep spiritual importance for Hindus and Buddhists.

These sacred lakes are part of a pilgrimage route and if you go on the Janai Purnima festival (August), you can experience this vibrant festival immersing yourselves in the local religious traditions.

Pilgrim houses, shrines, and a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva are located near the lakes. You can see devotees performing rituals, taking holy dips in the lakes, and seeking blessings amidst a serene mountain backdrop.

You’ll trek through lush forests, past waterfalls, and up to the tranquil lakes themselves. The trek provides gorgeous views of some of Nepal's most famous peaks, like Dorje Lakpa and the Langtang range.

Along the way, you will meet Tamang villages where you can gain insights into the local way of life.

The trek takes you to an altitude of 4,300 meters (14,107 feet) at Panch Pokhari. While this is not extremely high by Himalayan standards, it still poses a risk of altitude sickness for some trekkers, especially if they ascend too quickly.

You’ll have to walk on steep ascents, rocky paths, and sometimes slippery or uneven surfaces. While the Panch Pokhari Trek is not the most difficult in Nepal, it still requires a reasonable level of fitness and preparation.

If you want to feel close to nature and spirituality this trek is a must!

Highlights of Panch Pokhari

• Admire Panch Pokhari, a group of five glacial lakes considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists.

• Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks such as Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), Phurbi Chhyachu (6,637m), Madiya (6,257m) and pristine landscapes.

• Trek through Tamang settlements and get insights into Himalayan culture and lifestyle.

Itinerary outline

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Chhimti and trek to Tuppi Danda

Day 2: Trek from Tuppi Danda to Nyasim Pati

Day 3: Nyasim Pati to Panch Pokhari 

Day 4: Morning Hike to Viewpoint for Sunrise, Return to Chhimti

Day 5: Morning Bus from Chhimti to Kathmandu