You are about to start your next trekking journey. But your free time is limited to the weekend, so you’re looking for a short trek that allows you to explore the appealing trails leading to the wonders of nature without compromising your schedule.
Besides, Nepal is an array of quick and rewarding treks perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle and immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes, appealing culture, and a serene environment.
So, let us take a journey down the lane to find out the short treks for your ideal weekend in nature.
Dhampus Sarangkot Trek
Take a short drive from the Kathmandu Valley to Pokhara, where you will reach the famous vantage point of Sarangkot. The trail Dhampus Sarangkot Trek is a short and easy trek alongside the stunning landscapes and picturesque villages of Dhampus and Sarangkot, celebrated for breathtaking landscapes and cultural significance.
As you make your way up the trail, the max elevation you reach is 1600m, so you do not have the concern of altitude sickness. Reaching Sarangkot to experience the golden rays illuminating the white peaks and painting the sky in dazzling blue with eye-catching views.
Likewise, the warm and friendly Gurung people and their hospitality in Dhampus will give you insight into their Tibetan culture and lifestyle.
Throughout your two-day journey, you will be cheered on by the white cheering smiles of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung, and on clear days, even Mt. Everest.
Chisapani Nagarkot Hike
If you want to go near the Kathmandu valley, there is a famous short trek, Chisapani Nagarkot Hike, which has a mix of natural beauty and cultural charm throughout the trail. In a three-day trek, you start your way from Sundarijal, passing through lush forests, charming villages, and terraces before ending at Nagarkot. Similar to Sarangkot, the place is known to be the eye candy to give the iconic sunrise and sunset views along with towering peaks Ganesh Himal Langtang, Manaslu, Jugal, Rolwaling ,Gaurishankar ,Annapurna and Mahalangur.
Moreover, as you pass through the Shiva National Park, you might be up for the encounter with some species like Himalayan Black bear, leopard, jungle cat, and rhesus monkey as it is home to 177 species of birds, including at least nine threatened species, 102 species of butterflies.
You conclude your journey by ascending to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Changu Narayan Temple. This architectural marvel has stood for more than 500 years and demonstrates the historical beauty of the ancient Malla period.
Ghandruk Village Trek
When it comes to short hikes in Pokhara, Ghandruk is the best. The blend of the stunning natural beauty alongside aan lluring culture of the Gurung community and a chance to enjoy their savoury dishes and wear their ethnic dress is yet another attraction of the trek. From Pokhara you reach Ghandruk after a three-day journey with close-up views of Annapurna South and Machaupuchre quietly sitting there, showing off its beauty. Aside from that, the trail gives you a chance to take side trips to Poon Hil,l where you get to enjoy yet another stunning sunrise.
Kalinchowk Trek
The trekking journey with the chance to spend your time surrounded by the towering peaks of Dorje Lhakpa, Gurkarpo Ri, Longpogan Bhairav, Takura, Everest , Langtang and Gaurishankar and the sacred Kalinchowk Bhagwati temple perched atop of a hill. The best part of this trek is to visit during the winter where you can experience the magic of snowfalls and observe the true beauty of the towering peak and surrounding landscape more like a winter wonderland.
Balthali Village Trek
Bathali village trek is yet another peaceful two-day retreat near Kathmandu for tranquillity and a break from city life. The serene trails wind through the terrace field forested hills and scenic rural landscape. Along the way, you get insight into rural Nepalese life and enjoy the Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal range , Manaslu , Dorje Lakpa , and Gaurishankar for a relaxing and enriching experience. Since it is a newly opened route, you are up for a peaceful and solitude experience of cultural richness and natural gems throughout your trek.
Conclusion
The short treks in the lap of the natural and cultural gems are a fun and adventurous way to unwind your weekends. Before you plan your treks be sure to plan out your journey properly and take the help of a expert trek operator to guide your trekking.