With 12 days to spend in Nepal, you can comfortably finish an 8 or 9-day trek of your choice, at high altitudes and in remote areas. Venture into a less-traveled part of Nepal on the Nar Phu Trek, named for the Nar and Phu valleys. You'll trek past glaciers and over high mountain passes, stay in ancient villages, and take in staggering views of Annapurna II and Himlung Himal. Or, spot rare wildlife and get way off the beaten path with a hike through the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve in the shadow of Mt. Dhaulagiri.
Want to mix it up? Dive into a comprehensive tour of the "Golden Triangle" instead: Culture in Kathmandu, a low-elevation lodge-to-lodge trek in the Himalayan foothills near Pokhara, and a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park in the southern lowlands of Nepal.
See our itineraries below or read our guide to the best 12-day trips in Nepal.
The Nar Phu Valley trek is a real Himalayan wilderness experience that is as unforgettable as it is spectacular. Tucked between the more visited Annapurna and Manaslu regions, Nar Phu is a true hidden gem that offers trekkers a rare opportunity to explore unspoiled valleys that feature a mix of raw Himalayan nature and ancient Buddhist culture.
On this 12-day journey through Nepal, experience the scenic and challenging Tilicho Lake Trek—one of the highest lakes in the world. Start in Kathmandu to get acquainted with the country, and do some sightseeing. Then, begin the journey through the Annapurna region. Explore villages and stay in teahouses along the way. Make stops in Chame, Pisang, Manang, and Khangsar Village, before reaching Tilicho Base Camp. Then, spend time admiring the Tilicho Lake, before retracing your steps back to Kathmandu.
Few trekkers make their way to the base of spectacular Mardi Himal and the beautiful and imposing Machapuchhre, but this stunning route is quickly gaining popularity. Less challenging than the trek to nearby Annapurna Base Camp yet just as beautiful, this 12-day adventure belongs on the itinerary of anyone looking for a literal off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal.
For those who can take 2 weeks of vacation to visit Nepal, here is a 12-day itinerary that allows you to experience the highlights of Nepal: Culture in Kathmandu, a short trek in the Himalayan foothills near Pokhara, and a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park in the southern lowlands of Nepal.
Humla is a remote region of Western Nepal, and this trip takes you trekking through its river valleys and high peaks, with homestays in traditional Buddhist villages along the way. After your memorable trekking adventures, experience a change of pace in Bardia National Park, where you'll spend your time spotting native wildlife species, before ending your trip in bustling Kathmandu.
On the 12-day version of this itinerary, you'll trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar—a famous trading village between Tibet and Nepal. Continue from village to village, enjoying views of Ama Dablam, the "Matterhorn of Nepal." You'll learn about Sherpa culture along the way, culminating with the Buddhist monastery at Tengboche, and finally Dingboche before returning to Pokhara.
The 12-day version of this itinerary takes you to the foot of Ama Dablam, one of the most picturesque peaks in the Everest region. After a day of touring in Kathmandu, you'll follow the traditional route to Everest Base Camp before branching off into a less-trodden valley. Each day involves 5-7 hours of walking, and you can experience the culture of Sherpa villages and visit a number of famous Buddhist monasteries along the way.
This is a there-and-back trek to the awe-inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary, Nepal’s second most popular trek after Everest Base Camp. From Annapurna Base Camp (12,795 feet / 3,900 m), you'll wake up to truly once-in-a-lifetime views. The trek begins at Phedi, after a short drive from Pokhara, and passes through Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, and stunning river valleys set against the backdrop of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks.
This trip connects the three main regions of Nepal and moves at a relaxed yet steady pace to help you get the most out of your time. You'll go from the bazaars and temples of Kathmandu to traditional villages, and then onto Pokhara and Phewa Lake, after which you'll take a short trek in the Annapurna foothills with unforgettable views of the Himalaya. Round out your journey in Chitwan National Park, where you'll see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat, before heading back to Kathmandu.
This deluxe trek is great option if you're short on time yet keen to see the Everest region — and do so in style! You'll spend your nights relaxing in a beautiful, luxury Himalayan lodge and your days either trekking or flying through the Everest region by helicopter. The highlight of the trek is Kongde, a village perched high on a ridgeline with incredible panoramic views that few trekkers get to see.
This action-packed and adventure-filled trip will keep you on the move and get your heart rate pumping! Explore Nepal by mountain bike, river raft, and trekking trail. You'll hike through a beloved route in the Annapurnas, but will veer off-the-beaten-path for a unique mountain experience, all the while taking in incredible panoramas of extraordinary scenery.
