Best Destination to Trek During Dashain and Tihar In Nepal

Nepal is known for its rich cultural heritage, and two of its most significant and widely celebrated festivals are Dashain and Tihar. These festivals bring a unique blend of tradition, family bonding, and vibrant celebrations across the country.

This festival is a special time for both locals and travelers. Understanding the importance of these festivals enriches your experience and allows you to immerse yourself in Nepali culture more deeply.

This blog will explore the best holiday destination to trek during Dashain and Tihar, which offer a blend of cultural experiences, natural escapes, and family-friendly getaways. We have organized a list of destinations that are perfect for enjoying the festive atmosphere while exploring the beauty of Nepal.

From the bustling streets of Kathmandu during Tihar to the serene lakeside views of Pokhara during Dashain, we have got you covered.

Reason for the Destination to Trek During Dashain and Tihar

Dashain and Tihar are a time for families to come together to celebrate the festival. The festive holidays give Nepali people time off from work and school, encouraging them to travel and explore different parts of the country. It will be an ideal time to explore Nepal’s beauty, with clear autumn skies and mild weather that are perfect for trekking and sightseeing.

During these festivals, destinations like Kathmandu and Pokhara are bustling with tourists and locals alike. However, many also seek out quieter destinations in the mountains, which will be an excellent time to discover both well-known and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Whether you want to experience temples and monasteries or enjoy trekking, there is something for everyone during this festive season.

Best Destination to Trek During Dashain and Tihar

As we all know, Dashain and Tihar are the best seasons to trek in Nepal. All the trails will be packed with trekkers, and the hotels will be packers. Many foreigners and domestic tourists will love to travel from September to November, as this will be the best time to view the clear mountains and enjoy the best weather in Nepal.

Keeping this in mind, we will try to list the least explored yet most beautiful destination to trek to during Dashain and Tihar. The list we provide below will be a less untouched destination so that you can book the lodge without hassle and enjoy the view.

Paanch Pokhari Trek

Panch Pokhari is a Nepali term that translates to ‘Five Lakes’. This short trek has been a favorite destination near Kathmandu for both locals and international visitors. These stunning lakes sit at an elevation of 4,100 meters, and from the viewpoint at 4,300 meters. You will enjoy breathtaking views of the Jugal Himal range, including peaks like Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m) and Madiya (6,257 m).

This short yet rewarding trek takes you through waterfalls and forested paths, gradually leading you to the highlands. At the end of the journey, the view is absolutely unique, featuring five beautiful glacial lakes nestled among the hills.

One of the special things about the Panch Pokhari trek is the opportunity to camp at the lakes, where you can stay for as long as you wish. Unlike many other Himalayan destinations that are too steep or rugged for comfortable camping, Panch Pokhari feels like a peaceful mountain camping spot.

Take your time along the trail and at the lakes to absorb the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere fully.

How to Reach There?

This trek begins with a bumpy ride from Kathmandu to Chimti, followed by a short hike to Deurali. The first day takes 8-9 hours duration, combining 7 hours by bus and 1.5 hours of trekking. Next day you will continue our trek from Deurali to Nasimpati (3,700 m), taking about 6 to 7 hours through a scenic mountain trail.

Day 3 is a challenging yet rewarding day. You can trek from Nasimpati to the sacred Panch Pokhari (4,100 m), a stunning group of five lakes. You will also visit a viewpoint at 4,300 m for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. After spending 7 hours on the trail, you will return to Nasimpati for an overnight stay.

The next day covers the journey back from Nasimpati to Deurali. This day is all about 8 hours of trekking through the serene landscape.

On the final day, there is a short, 1-hour walk from Deurali to Chimti. On the same day, we will have a 7-hour bus ride back to Kathmandu. This itinerary offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and high-altitude trekking.

Api Base Camp Trek

Mount Api Base Camp is one of the remotest and least popular trekking areas in Nepal. This mountain is situated in the far west of Nepal, bordering India on the west and Tibet on the north. This trek actually falls in the uppermost part of the Darchula district area, which the modern world has seldom touched.

The full blend of Hindus and Buddhists comes alive during a trek in which a walk through villages gives vignettes of lives still immensely attached to their traditional ways. This is really a unique experience for visitors to come and see the culture and heritage, which have survived over time and are still untouched by modern influences.

The trail takes you along routes of concealment, leading you to discover museums, temples, and monasteries. Your journey could take you among members of different ethnic groups and surround you with the infectious hospitality of locals in every village.

How to Reach There?

Api Base Camp Trek is a wild and remote odyssey into the far western parts of Nepal for 13 days, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes with Api Himal towering at an altitude of 7,132 meters. It starts with flight arrivals to Dhangadi, then drives to Karkale, and from there starts the trek.

On the second day, you will walk through green forests and cross many rivers to reach Chiureni. Consequently, the following days bring a walk through some of the nicest valleys and villages secluded as one trek along past Makarighat on the way to Bayaligad. With every step higher in altitude, the path moves further to Simar and Dhawaliwadar. Finally, you will reach the Api Base Camp on the eighth day. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Api Himal and its surrounding peaks.

On the ninth day, the descent starts through the Saheb Bazaar, tracing back to Makarighat and Bitule Chaur. On the twelfth day, you begin a trek to Gokuleshwor as you conclude your drive back to Kathmandu for closure on an unforgettable adventure in one of the most uncharted trekking destinations of Nepal.

Tsho Rolpa Trek

The Tsho Rolpa Trek takes one through the central Himalayan peaks within the Rolwaling mountain ranges. It lies aside from the tall Mt. Everest to the east and the Mount Langtang range to the west. Situated in the northeastern part of the Dolakha district, Bagmati Province, Nepal.

Tsho Rolpa Lake is located at the foothills of the Rolwaling peaks, surrounding an area of 1.65 kilometers. Tsho Rolpa in the Sherpa language means “Lake of Rolwaling Valley.” The local people call this lake Lake Chhuygima Pokhari because the water body in it changes color. Rolwaling has got religious importance for Hindus and Buddhists due to its glacial and River-cut valleys.

The trek to Tsho Rolpa is supposed to be a fun trip that goes along the Tama Koshi River right to where it originates. On this journey, you can see many different kinds of plants and animals in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area. Small villages of Sherpa people who follow Tibetan Buddhism are another special factor of this adventure.

How to Reach There?

This trek brings you into the stunningly beautiful Rolwaling Valley. It starts with a nice drive from Kathmandu to Che Chet, then treks to the lovely village of Simigaon (2,000 m). On the second day, it goes up to Dongang on a slow gain at 2,800 meters and sees the terraced fields, green forests, and the grand Gaurishankar Himal.

On the third day, walking through rhododendron forests and across streams takes you to Beding. This is a traditional Sherpa village at 3,690 m. On the fourth day, it takes the trek to a much more spectacular mountain view at Na which is at an elevation of 4,183 meters.

The best part is day five: you will arrive at the beautiful Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580 m) surrounded by amazing views and then back down to Na for the night’s stay. You can also extend your trip to Dudh Kunda Lake from Na Village, which is located at a height of 4890 m. Day six starts the descent, whereby the trail leads back to Beding, allowing you to see the now familiar scenery from another perspective.

On the seventh day, the group will be taking a tour from Beding to Simigaon via Dongang. The final day will involve going back to Che Chet and then driving to Kathmandu, where the trip will be finished and this unforgettable Himalayan adventure will be over.

Ama Yangri Trek

Ama Yangri lies around 90km north of Kathmandu Valley. This peak is the closest highest peak from Kathmandu, the capital city of Kathmandu. In the surrounding area of Ama Yangri are several ethnic groups like Sherpas, Tamangs, and Chhetries.

This is part of the Helambu Circuit trekking, which falls under one of the mainstays for travelers. It lies in the Sindupalchok district within Langtang National Park. The Helambu Circuit Trekking, which is also called “Hyolmo Heritage,” is a very easy and pretty trekking tour.

You will be able to see great mountains of the Himalayas, enjoy green landscapes, and learn about unique Hyolmo culture. It’s a natural, interesting trekking tour where travelers will be able to experience stunning Himalayan scenery, great green landscapes, and Hyolmo culture.

We can see nice beautiful mountains like Langtang Range, Annapurnas, Manaslu, and even Everest if the sky is clear from low places. The language, culture, and clothing of the Helambhu Sherpas are quite different from those in the Khumbu area and Rolwaling. This region is a well-known place for Thanka art.

How to Reach There?

This trek starts with a very nice drive from Kathmandu to Timbu, a small village that lies at an altitude of 1,580 meters (5,183 feet). It takes you around 3 to 4 hours of ride from Kathmandu. On the second day of the trek, it will take about a 5-6 hour walk through forests and fields to get to Tarke Gyang. This is a beautiful Sherpa village that stands at 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) above sea level.

Day three has a nice hike to Ama Yangri and this is the highest point of the trek. This viewpoint is at an altitude of 3,371 meters and you can see a beautiful range of mountains. It gives great views of the Himalayas before going back to Tarke Gyang. On the fourth day, hikers proceed to Sermanthang, a village at 2,621 meters (8,599 feet).

This trek is easy and takes about 4 to 5 hours. The last day is spent driving for 6 to 7 hours back to Kathmandu; it means the end of the journey.

Khumai Danda Trek

Khumai Danda Trek or Machhapuchhre Model Trek is one of the least-known Nepal treks in the Annapurna region. Khumai Danda lies at 3,245 meters and is fairly close to the beautiful city of Pokhara. This trek is an ideal retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This trek takes one through stunning landscapes and diversified terrain. This trek gives you good opportunities for rich cultural experiences amidst breathtaking beauty.

Starting from Pokhara, you are greeted with a grand view of the mountain ranges of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Your journey onward would pass through the villages of Lachok and Ghachok via an unused path. This trail is full of nature’s beauty, untouched, and serene.

One can be taken through lush forests, quaint villages, and terraced fields dash of traditional rural life that has been going on in its own way. The charm and friendly people guarantee an unforgettable impression by making you guests at their homes, sharing their customs, and offering freshly prepared meals. This tour not only offers an opportunity to explore the beauty of Nepal’s varied landscapes but also to gain deep insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

How to Reach There?

This trek starts with a private jeep or taxi transfer from Pokhara to Ghachok, which is a traditional village at 1,494 meters. After the drive, you will begins by ascending to 2,160 meters after a 4-hour trek to Hile Kharka. On the second day, there will be a gentle uphill from Hile into Khumai Danda standing at 3,245 meters for about 4-5 hours.

The next day we will wake up early morning to hike at Korchan Danda. This viewpoint is located at an altitude of 3,700 meters for breathtaking sunrise views across mountains. Later in the day, descend for 4 hours down to Mirsha, where you will be taken in by an authentic homestay experience.

The last day includes a half-hour walk to Kharpani hot spring for the opportunity to soak in the natural hot thermal water. We will then drive to Pokhara by jeep, bus, or taxi. This itinerary balances stunning Himalayan views with cultural experiences and relaxation.

Ruby Valley Trek

Ruby Valley Trek is seemingly hidden between the Manaslu and Langtang regions in northwest Kathmandu. This trek is one of the longer and most pristine areas falling into the Rasuwa and Dhading districts, bordering Tibet in the north. It forms the heart of the entire Ganesh Himal region.

It is a somewhat lesser-known route compared to its neighbors Langtang and Manaslu treks. However, it can equally be made up as a geographically, biologically, ethnically, and culturally rewarding destination. The name Ruby Valley was named after the plenty of red gemstones present in the Ruby Valley area.

This trek offers you the sight of the most striking sceneries which may mean beautiful landscapes and picturesque valleys and waterfalls. You will also be delighted with their snow-capped mountains named Paldor Peak, Langtang Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna, Dorje Lakpa, Machhapuchhre, and Ganesh Himal.

Besides scenic beauty, a trekker can enjoy the varied cultural components of the people belonging to different ethnic groups as Tamang, Gurung, and Ghale inhabit the higher altitudes. Brahmins, Chettris, Newars, and Chepangs live in the lower parts of this region.

How to Reach There?

This trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. It is a small town located at the edge of the Langtang Valley. The drive takes around 7-8 hours, offering glimpses of the rural landscape, hills, and terraced fields.

We will start our trek with a moderate hike from Syabrubesi to Gatlang. It is a picturesque Tamang village settled on the hillside. The trail passes through terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional settlements, allowing trekkers to experience the local culture and lifestyle.

We will continue with a trek from Gatlang to Somdang, a more remote area known for its tranquil beauty. The trail ascends through dense forests of rhododendrons and pine. You may spot wildlife along the way. The journey offers a sense of solitude as you traverse through pristine, off-the-beaten paths.

On this day, we will cross the Pangsang Pass (3842m) which is the highest point of the trek. This pass offers panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal and surrounding peaks. The trail then descends into Tipling, a quaint village at 2078 meters. You will experience the rich local culture and hospitality of the Tamang people can be experienced.

Another day involves a trek from Tipling to Borang village, a traditional settlement surrounded by scenic beauty. This walk is easy following a gradual descent through terraced fields and forests with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the landscape and local culture.

Another day takes you downhill to Dundure Khola, a river known for its serene atmosphere. The trek involves descending through lush vegetation and small hamlets, reaching a lower altitude.

The next day, there is a short trek from Dundure Khola to a point where transportation is available. We will then drive back to Kathmandu via Dhading Beshi. This scenic drive offers a pleasant end to the journey.

Bhairav Kunda Trek

The Bhairav Kunda Trek is located near the Nepal-Tibet border in the Langtang Region. It is a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and spiritual experiences in the Himalayas. This trek leads to the sacred Bhairav Kunda Lake, with “Bhairav” representing the fierce form of Lord Shiva and “Kunda” meaning pond.

It offers stunning views of both the Nepalese and Tibetan Himalayas while immersing you in the rich cultural heritage of the Newar and Sherpa communities. Although it is not far from Kathmandu the trail is peaceful which makes this trail an ideal escape into pristine natural beauty.

The journey begins with a stay in Kathmandu Valley, followed by a drive to Jalbire, where the trek starts. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks such as Madiya (6,275 m), Phurbi Ghhyachu (6,637 m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m), and Jugal Himal. You’ll also experience the vibrant Newari culture at Jalbire.

As you continue through rhododendron forests and traditional villages, you will eventually reach the Bhairav Kunda Lake. You might find many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims as they come to bathe and purify their sins. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva near the lake.

How to Reach There?

The Bhairav Kunda Trek begins with a bus drive of 4-5 hours from Kathmandu to Jalbire. This is a small village that lies 1,000 meters, from where the trekking actually begins.

You will start the 4-hour trek from Jalbire to Chanaute at 1,350 meters. This is a pretty good trail to the Nepalese countryside life and landscapes. You will make an uphill hike of 6 hours to Khani Gaon at 2,000 meters, where you can enjoy typical village life. You will rest on the following day and do sightseeing around Khani Gaon for you to fully participate in the culture and the surroundings.

The trek continues for a hard 6 to 7 hours from Khani Gaon to reach Forest Camp at 3,150 meters. The trail winds along the dense forests, offering views in a tranquil environment, while following an energetic climb. The next day treks from Forest Camp reach Pati in 5 hours at an altitude of 3,765 meters. You will then stay overnight there before the final ascend to Bhairav Kunda. The next day covers a shorter 3-hour trek to Bhairav Kunda at 4,250 meters above sea level.

Sunrise over Bhairav Kunda on the ninth day onwards ensues a long descent of 6-7 hours towards Sherpa Gaon village. On the tenth day, it would be a continuation of the trek to Larcha. You can take the opportunity to go to a natural hot spring near the highway of Kodari for an enjoyable experience. Lastly, this journey would come to an end with a 5-6 hour drive by bus from Larcha to Kathmandu.

Ganesh Himal Trek

The Ganesh Himal trek journeys into one of the most untraveled and remote parts of the Himalayas. This trek derives its name from the god of fortune in Hindu mythology, Ganesh, and is close to Langtang, Annapurna, Manaslu, and the Tibetan side. It allows you to explore some hidden wonders of nature. This trek passes through waterfalls, stupas, unique rock formations, and peaceful villages. The region is also rich in minerals like ruby, crystal, and zinc.

It has a rich flora, which is famed for Berberis, Primula, Orchids, and Ferns. Yellow double jasmine blossoms give the valleys their colors during spring. Forests are filled with Spanish oaks, blue pines, and crimson, pink, and white rhododendrons.

How to Reach There?

This trek begins with a scenic 6-hour drive to Kispang (1,600m. It is a small village that sets the stage for your journey into the mountainous landscapes. The drive provides a chance to take in the surrounding terrain, which transitions from the rolling hills to the foothills of the Himalayas.

Next day, you will start a strenuous 6-7 hour trek to Rupchet (3,850m), gaining significant altitude. The trail climbs steadily, offering panoramic views as you ascend through dense forests and reach higher altitudes.

Today you will be crossing the Sing La Pass (4,050m) en route to Tipling. This 6-hour trek takes you to one of the highest points of the journey. Today you will see the expansive views of the Ganesh Himal range. The descent into the village of Tipling brings you to a more remote area with distinct cultural elements.

On the next day, you will trek for about 3-4 hours to Chalish Gaon, passing through Sertung (1,800m). The trail is shorter and allows you to relax in this picturesque village nestled in the hills.

This day involves a 5-hour trek to Rachyet Gaon (1,775m), where the route continues through terraced fields and rural landscapes. The next day involves 6 6-hour trek to Khading Gaon via Lapa Gaon (1,850m). This is another traditional village that showcases the local Tamang culture. The trail bends through quiet valleys and ridges, offering serene views of the surrounding countryside.

On the next day, you will trek for 5 hours to Ri Gaon (1,450m), descending gradually as the terrain becomes more temperate. By the last day you will trek 5-6 hours to Phulkharka (1,310m) brings you closer to the lower hills. The landscape is marked by terraced fields and small settlements. You trek ends at the Jyamrung Danda/Durbar (1,550m), after a 6-hour walk through gentle terrain.

Then you will drive 4-5 hours back to Kathmandu via Dhading Bensi.

Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek, which opened to trekkers less than 20 years ago, remains one of Nepal’s hidden gems. This trek is less accessible and well-known than the more established routes in the country. It can be easily reached by a day’s drive from Kathmandu, with no flights required.

The Tsum Valley Trek takes you into remote, northern Nepal, close to the Tibetan border. This trek offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich introduction to Tibetan culture. Along the way, you will encounter numerous gompas and monasteries.

A high level of fitness is essential, as you will be trekking at high altitudes with long daily hikes, and the accommodations are fairly basic. Having good stamina and an adventurous spirit will certainly help!

You will not only meet Buddhist monks and yak herders but there’s also a chance to spot unique wildlife. These wildlife include red pandas, snow leopards, and blue sheep. A wealth of bird species and diverse flora further enhance the experience.

How to Reach There?

The adventure begins with a scenic 8-hour drive from Kathmandu to Macha Khola, where you’ll start your trek. The road meanders through lush hills and terraced farmlands, and along the Budhi Gandaki River, offering a glimpse of rural Nepal before you start walking.

From Macha Khola, you start on a 6-hour trek to Jagat, a traditional village. The trail crosses suspension bridges, winds through subtropical forests, and follows the river’s flow. The trek continues to Lokpa, which is a more remote and quieter village. The rugged terrain begins to reveal the beauty of the Tsum Valley, with snow-capped peaks becoming more visible.

You proceed to Chumling after another 5-hour hike. This part of the trail offers a gradual ascent with stunning mountain views. You will also notice the distinct Tibetan Buddhist culture of the valley. The journey becomes more immersive as you trek to Chekampar. This village is one of the largest settlements in the region.

The trek continues to the Nile with a 6-hour walk through narrow valleys. You may take a rest day here, with an optional visit to Mu Gompa. This Gumpa is one of the most important monasteries in the region.

From Nile, you retrace your steps and descend to Chumling. The descent continues to Philim, over 6 to 7 hours. You will pass through lush greenery, river crossings, and waterfalls. As you descend, the scenery shifts from alpine to subtropical terrain.

The final leg of the trek brings you back to Macha Khola, with another 6 to 7-hour trek through familiar paths. From Macha Khola, you will drive back to Kathmandu in an 8-hour journey, concluding your adventure in the Tsum Valley. The entire experience offers a rich blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep connection to the Himalayan region, making it an unforgettable journey.

North Annapurna Base Camp Trek

On June 3, 1950, Maurice Herzog led a team that became the first to successfully summit Mount Annapurna, marking the first ascent of an 8000-meter peak. This achievement gave rise to the name “Maurice Herzog Trail” for the route to Annapurna North Base Camp. This trail is known as the “French North Face Route”. The team had explored Annapurna’s challenging north face.

This trail is still one of the least traveled because of its difficulty. There are no tea houses along the way, which means trekkers need to camp overnight in many areas due to the lack of accommodations.

How to Reach There?

This trekking journey begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Narchyang village, situated at an altitude of 1,530 meters. The village offers a glimpse into local culture, and the stay at a homestay allows for an authentic experience.

From Narchyang, the trek begins with a challenging ascent to Chottepa. The trail passes through lush forests and remote landscapes, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. After approximately 7 hours of trekking, the night is spent camping in the wilderness, surrounded by nature.

The next leg of the journey takes you to Sandikharka at an altitude of 3,160 meters. The trail becomes steeper, and the vegetation gradually thins as the trek progresses. After 5 to 6 hours of trekking, a campsite provides a peaceful spot to rest under the stars.

Continuing upward, the trek leads to a higher campsite. The ascent is more demanding, but the increasingly dramatic scenery and closer views of the Annapurna range. The night is spent camping, with the towering peaks as a backdrop.

One of the highlights of the trek is the exploration of the North Annapurna Base Camp at 4,190 meters. After soaking in the breathtaking mountain vistas, the route returns to the Thulobugin Pass. The trek which will take 7 hours hike will cover high-altitude terrain and offers unforgettable panoramic views, with a campsite near the pass for the night.

The descent begins with a trek to Ghasa, a village situated at 3,260 meters. This section of the journey takes around 6 hours. As you move lower, the environment shifts back to denser forests and more temperate landscapes. The night is spent camping in this scenic village.

The final leg involves a 6-hour drive back to Pokhara, passing through terraced farmlands and picturesque valleys. This concludes the trek, offering a satisfying end to an unforgettable journey through the Annapurna region.

At Last

Trekking in Nepal during Dashain or Tihar offers a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. You will witness the joyful spirit of local festivals, where traditions are deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life. Whether it is sharing in the blessings of Dashain or marveling at the lights of Tihar in mountain villages, these treks offer an opportunity to experience Nepal beyond its majestic peaks.

The weather is ideal, the trails are alive with celebration, and the sense of community makes these treks unforgettable. By immersing yourself in both the natural and cultural wonders, trekking during Dashain and Tihar allows for a journey that is not only scenic but also deeply meaningful. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and start your trek that will bring you closer to both the heart of Nepal and its awe-inspiring mountains.