Nepal is a country with breathtaking landscapes, pristine nature, and diverse cultures. These qualities make Nepal one of the top destinations for trekking in Nepal. However, for many international travelers Budget Friendly trekking is a major concern.
Are there budget-friendly treks in Nepal? Yes, there are many. You can treat your eyes with scenes of majestic Himalayas, lush green, unique landscapes, and more without breaking the bank.
This blog will serve as your ultimate guide to the eight most economical treks in Nepal for 2025.
1. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular short trek route in Nepal and it’s affordable too. This trek has stunning views of the Annapurna range.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is perfect for beginners or anyone short on time but who wishes to see the beauty of the Himalayas. You can complete this trek in 5 to 7 days.
You can start this trek from Pokhara- The tourist paradise in Nepal. You can then make your way to Ghorepani by walking through charming villages, and dense forests full of rhododendrons. After reaching Poon Hill, you can witness the mesmerizing sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It is an experience beyond words.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is relatively easier and cheaper than treks around Everest or Annapurna Circuit. Also, your accommodation will be in local tea houses which are basic but inexpensive. You can also enjoy cost-friendly food. But you would have to pay for these permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
2. Langtang Valley Trek
Another cost-effective trek in Nepal is the Langtang Valley Trek. This trek offers you the natural beauty of the Himalayas and amazing local culture.
Syabrubesi, the starting and ending point of the Langtang Valley Trek, is just about 115 km north of Kathmandu. So, you can reach there using public transportation or with a private jeep. You can complete the Langtang trek in 7 to 10 days.
To start your trek, you would need a Langtang National Park permit which is less expensive compared to other famous routes. Along the trail, you can find cheap tea houses serving good food and lodging facilities.
3. Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal is one of the most beautiful and peaceful treks in the Annapurna region. Mardi Himal Trek is popular among local trekkers but it is relatively less known to international trekkers. The trek is moderately easy and can be completed in 5 to 7 days.
Mardi Trek is the best option for you if you have limited time but want to enjoy breathtaking views, and serenity. You can stay overnight at high camp to witness one of the best sunrises.
The Mardi Himal trek is extremely cost-effective when compared to Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp. Due to its less popularity or publicity, the accommodation, food, and permits are cheaper.
4. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is a popular trek amongst international and national trekkers. ABC Trek is cheaper compared to the Everest Base Camp trek and other high-altitude treks. This trek can be completed in 7 to 12 days.
Before reaching ABC, you can stop at MBC (Machhapuchhre Base Camp) for stunning close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). It is the perfect spot to acclimatize, enjoy tea, and take amazing pictures. On the way, you can enjoy several thrilling suspension bridges over rivers and deep valleys.
After days of trekking, you can enjoy a hot bath in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
The warm water helps to relax sore muscles. The entry to the hot springs is free, but you must have an Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) and a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card.
ABC trek starts from Pokhara. There are numerous affordable tea houses along the way. Since you don’t need to take flights, the ABC trek can be a budget-friendly trek to explore the mountains in Nepal.
5. Everest View Trek
The Everest View Trek is for those people who wish to explore the Everest region while on a budget. Do not think Everest View Trek with Everest Base Camp are the same. Everest View Trek is easier, while the EBC Trek is difficult and offers more challenges.
The Everest View Trek route leads to Tengboche or Khumjung. On this trek, you can enjoy views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, and Tawache peaks.
To start this trek, you would need to fly to Lukla. From Lukla, you can take a hike to Namche Bazaar, and rest. You can then hike to the Everest View Hotel and enjoy the majestic peaks. Also, you can enjoy affordable local food and accommodation in the tea houses.
6. Lower Mustang Trek
The Lower Mustang Trek is ideal for budget travelers. This trek takes you through the lower Mustang region and provides magnificent views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. This trek is moderately easy and can be accomplished in 8 to 10 days.
Start your Lower Mustang Trek from Pokhara, then travel to Jomsom and further to Marpha, Tukuche, and the picturesque village of Kagbeni.
You can end your trek at Jomsom and take a flight/drive back to Pokhara. Another alternative is to extend the trek to Tatopani and return by road.
7. Rara lake
The Rara trek is another low-cost trek in Nepal that leads you to Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest lake. On this trek, you can enjoy breathtaking views, and rich biodiversity, and witness Thakuri and Tibetan culture.
You can take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then trek from Talcha Airport to Rara Lake, and explore Rara Lake and the surrounding areas. Another trek route can be from Kathmandu to Surkhet, Surkhet to Jumla, and Jumla to Rara Lake. The Rara Lake Trek can be fully completed in 10 to 12 days.
Trek to Rara Lake is still reasonably priced although it is in a remote area, and requires trek permits.
8. Helambu Valley Trek
Helambu Valley Trek is one of the most economical trekking options near Kathmandu. This easy trek is ideal for beginners, families, and those who want a gentle trek with amazing mountain views.
You can start your hike from Sundarijal to Chisapani, and then trek along Kutumsang, Tharepati, Tarkeghyang, Sermanthang and reach Melamchi Bazaar. It takes 4 to 5 days to complete the Helambu Valley trek.
During your trek, you can enjoy views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Jugal peaks. You can also experience the rich Tamang and Hyolmo cultures.
Final Words
If you want to enjoy adventure in 2025, you can certainly consider trekking in Nepal. Trekking in Nepal is more affordable than you think.
You can enjoy budget-friendly treks to the mountains like the Annapurna or Everest region, valleys such as: Langtang and Helambu, and lakes like Rara. All you gotta do is choose either a short or long trek. Once you have chosen your trek route, do not forget to check for tips to make an affordable trek in Nepal.
Mission Himalaya Treks is a dedicated travel agency that offers economical treks in Nepal. They are a reputed travel agency that offers custom trekking packages that align with trekkers’ budgets and trek goals.
Contact Mission Himalaya Treks to get complete information on easy to difficult treks in Nepal.