Best Trekking Routes in Nepal for Women: Safe, Scenic & Empowering Adventures

Nepal, the kingdom of the Himalayas, is a shelter for trekkers across the world. With unparalleled landscapes, amazing culture and openness towards female travelers, no wonder Nepal has been marketed as a top destination for trekking by women. Whether you’re seeking some solo communing with nature or are happy to come along for a group ride, Nepal has something for you. With a little attention to crucial issues and a lot of observation, Nepal is the perfect place to experience a once-in-a-lifetime trekking without any fuss, for a woman.  

In this article, we'll explore some of the best trekking routes in Nepal for women, highlighting their safety, ease of access, and stunning views. These are handpicked treks so that women trekkers can walk confidently in a safe environment in order to reclaim the mountains. From classic hikes such as the Everest Base Camp Trek to off-the-beaten-path adventures such as the Upper Dolpo Trek, you’ll find a variety of trails that cater to all levels of trekkers or hikers.

Why Nepal is a Dream Trekking Destination for Women?

There are many reasons why Nepal is a great destination for female trekkers. Firstly, it features a whole host of trekking options for all skills, from beginners to seasoned trekkers. Safety for women is the top priority in Nepal, and for a heartening experience, most trekking companies offer female trekkers with female guides and porters.  

Here’s why Nepal is a trekkers paradise for women: Some of the many reasons:

• Trek Difficulty: Nepal is home to an array of treks, ranging from easy to challenging. For beginners, trails like Ghorepani Poon Hill or the Mardi Himal Trek are great. For people with good experience in trekking, options include the Everest Three Passes Trek or the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.
• Safety: Women trekkers mostly worry about their safety. Several outdoor trekking agencies in Nepal offer women-only groups with female guides and porters, ensuring a safe environment. It’s also a must to look into the safety record of your selected agency.
• Altitude and Acclimatization: High-altitude treks such as Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek need acclimatization. Take enough time and energy to cope with altitude sickness.
• Availability of Accommodations: Most trekking routes in Nepal offer teahouse accommodations, which are quite comfortable and safe for female trekkers. Make sure that there are clean and safe places to stay along the path at all times.
• Season: The best trekking seasons in Nepal are the spring (March to May) and the autumn (Late September – December). These are the seasons with clear weather and comfortable temperatures, suitable for trekking. 

Top 20 Best Trekking Routes in Nepal for Female Adventurers

Trekking in Nepal offers an array of spectacular trekking routes. Some of the finest female-friendly trekking trails are as follows:

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek Route

The Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC) is the most iconic and is at the pinnacle of every trekker’s bucket list. This trek is not just about reaching a destination; it is about the experience and the adventure along the way. Beginning in the busy town of Lukla, the trek leads through thriving Sherpa communities such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. As you ascend, you are treated to the most spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, looming large in the distance in a way that you can see nowhere else. 

This trek is also ideal for those looking to challenge themselves at high altitudes, especially with the guidance of a female trek leader. With proper training, solo women can successfully complete this journey. The teahouses along the route are well-maintained and offer a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. While you won’t encounter any wild animals like snow leopards, be cautious of the malnourished pack animals (such as yaks or mules) along the way. If you're unfamiliar with the route, it is highly recommended to prioritize safety, especially in busy areas where animals are being led. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5643 meters (17,598 feet)
• Trek Duration: 12-17 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Lodges
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Local Permit
• Major Highlights: Close-up view of Mount Everest, Khumbu Icefall, Tengboche Monastery
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek Route

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) is the most popular preference among women looking for a mid-length trek with a great mix of natural beauty and cultural exposure. The hike provides stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and many other peaks, as well as lets you stroll through ancient Gurung villages, allowing you to experience the hospitality of these hamlets while capturing their rich culture. 

It is a perfect route for those who like alpine (wide snowfields) and moderate difficulty. The teahouse facilities are welcoming and the trail is in excellent condition, providing a good and safe trek for women. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 4,130 meters (13,550 feet)
• Trek Duration: 7-15 days
• Trek Category: Moderate
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
• Major Highlights: Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Annapurna Sanctuary, panoramic mountain views.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

For experienced trekkers who want to get off the beaten track, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exciting choice. The trail will lead you through isolated valleys, over high mountain passes, and past ancient villages influenced by Tibetan culture, all with the spectacular backdrop of the Manaslu Mountain. The hike provides a unique cultural experience as you trek into the high-altitude Tibetan plateau, visiting Buddhist monasteries and exploring traditional Tibetan villages. 

The trail is moderate, and this trek requires a bit of stamina because of the rugged terrains and high-altitude passes like the Larke La Pass (5,160 meters). Women trekkers must have a guide with them to ensure safety and proper acclimatization. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,160 meters (16,929 feet)
• Trek Duration: 14-18 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Camping
• Best Season: Autumn (September to November), Spring (March to May)
• Trek Restrictions: Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Special Permit
• Major Highlights: Larke La Pass, Buddhist Monasteries, Tibetan culture.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Langtang Valley & Gosainkunda Trek Route

For those trekkers seeking an alternative altitude trek to the very popular Annapurna and Everest base camps that are too crowded for you, the Langtang Valley & Gosainkunda Trek will give you the best of both culture and beauty. From Syabrubesi, the trek ranges through thick forests, charming villages, and high pastures before reaching the mystical Gosainkunda Lake, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. 

The Langtang Trek Route is wonderful for trekkers of beginner to intermediate capabilities, and it’s a relatively quiet place for a trek in the Himalayas compared with the truck-loads of trekkers on popular routes such as Everest and Annapurna. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 4,380 meters (14,370 feet)
• Trek Duration: 7-10 days
• Trek Category: Moderate
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Lodges
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Langtang National Park Permit
• Major Highlights: Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, Gosainkunda Lake.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Upper Mustang Trek

Ladies, if you’re planning to trek and wish to experience Tibetan culture and an isolated environment, the Upper Mustang Trek is a good candidate for your itinerary. In the rain shadow of the Annapurna range, you will trek through rough terrain and high passes, around and through villages until you reach the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang where, like in and around the other villages, you will find monasteries hundreds of years old, cave dwellings and people living a Tibetan influenced mountain life. 

This trek is well suited for those who seek culture and adventure at the same time. Challenges faced as a solo female trekker, as it is very remote most solo female trekkers should consider hiring a guide to ensure their safety through the trail.

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 4,010 meters (13,156 feet)
• Trek Duration: 12-15 days
• Trek Category: Moderate to Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Camping
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: Restricted Area Permit
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Upper Mustang Special Permit
• Major Highlights: Lo Manthang, ancient caves, Tibetan culture.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal and a dream adventure of a lifetime for travelers who are seeking variety. It is an adventure that includes subtropical forests and terraced fields, as well as alpine meadows and high-altitude deserts. The Annapurna Circuit Trek also offers insights into the culture of the isolated settlements en route, allowing you to meet and talk with the inhabitants of the remote villages and understand their ways. 

A tap on one of the most awesome parts of the trek is traveling the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5416m (17769 ft). The teahouses along this trail are well-maintained and provide a safe environment for hikers, even at high altitudes. Because of their quality, the risk is lower, making this trek safer, even for solo women travelers. This is one of the key benefits of the trek. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,416 meters (17,769 feet)
• Trek Duration: 14-18 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
• Major Highlights: Thorong La Pass, Annapurna Massif, traditional villages.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is an ideal trek for women trekkers who wish to go on an adventure trek and more so in the culturally intense region. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, has a remote, stunning, crowd-free trail. This is a less commercialized trek and is the perfect option for those wishing to escape to the wilderness and the relatively untouched trails. 

The trek leads through verdant forests and secluded villages and up to Kanchenjunga Base Camp, where you can bask in views of the awesome mountain. Because of its isolation and difficult and sometimes scary trekking, an experienced trekking guide is recommended to ensure safety and manage logistics effectively. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,143 meters (16,874 feet)
• Trek Duration: 18-24 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Camping
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, Special Permit
• Major Highlights: Kanchenjunga Base Camp, panoramic views, remote Tibetan villages.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Gokyo Lake Trek

The Gokyo Lake trek is a beautiful alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek, where you can see rich blue-green glacial lakes and fewer people. The trek brings you to the Gokyo Ri peak, which offers sweeping vistas of the Everest region, including four of the world’s six highest peaks. It’s a peaceful, relatively easy trek, and there are lodges throughout, meaning it’s a good and welcoming trek for anyone considering doing it solo. 

If you're after a quieter route with stunning views of Everest and the other peaks in its region, this trek is ideal. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,357 meters (17,575 feet)
• Trek Duration: 10-14 days
• Trek Category: Moderate to Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Permit
• Major Highlights: Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, less crowded than EBC.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Mardi Himal Trek

If you're seeking a shorter and less touristic trekking option, the Mardi Himal Trek would be an excellent option for women travelers traveling independently. The route gives you spectacular up-close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and through the lush forests and villages. It allows you to experience the hospitality and warmth of the locals. 

This route tends to be less busy than the other trails in the Annapurna region and, hence, is ideal for travelers who wish for a peaceful trekking experience. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 4,500 meters (14,763 feet)
• Trek Duration: 5-7 days
• Trek Category: Easy to Moderate
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
• Major Highlights: Views of Machhapuchhre, pristine forests, and local hospitality.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek

One of the easiest and shortest treks in Nepal, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is perfect for female trekkers and less experienced hikers who want to discover the joy of trekking in the Himalayas. The trip offers sunrise views of some of the best peaks, like Annapurna, Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri, from the famous Poon Hill. 

Also, not too high and with secure teahouses along the way, it's ideal for independent female travelers and for those who have a short time. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 3,210 meters (10,531 feet)
• Trek Duration: 4-5 days
• Trek Category: Easy to Moderate
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
• Major Highlights: Sunrise from Poon Hill, views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, beautiful villages.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Rara Lake Trek

Rara Lake is the remotest and most pristine lake of Nepal, situated in the far north-western part of western Nepal. It's a lush, peaceful and very nature-connected walk. The lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and thick jungles, offers a beautiful canvas for female trekkers who seek unconventional trekking routes.  

Because this is a remote area, trekking here requires careful planning, and you should do so with a guide who knows the area well.

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 3,048 meters (10,000 feet)
• Trek Duration: 10-12 days
• Trek Category: Moderate to Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Camping
• Best Season: Autumn (September to November), Spring (March to May)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Rara National Park Permit
• Major Highlights: Rara Lake, remote villages, peaceful surroundings.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Upper Dolpo Trek

The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote and culturally rich trekking trails in Nepal. This takes you to a remote area that has only recently been opened to trekkers and is incredibly isolated. Famous for its remote Bon monasteries, alpine lakes, and Tibetan-style villages, Upper Dolpo remains a paradise for hardcore hikers looking for that one-of-a-kind trip. 

For women seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trek is an opportunity to submerge yourself into the Tibetan culture and raw beauty in the far western Himalayas of Nepal. This is a logistical trek arrangement where permits are mandatory with a guide. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,150 meters (16,896 feet)
• Trek Duration: 18-24 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Camping
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Dolpo Special Permit
• Major Highlights: Bon monasteries, isolated Tibetan villages, remote landscapes.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an adventurous, off-the-beaten trek that takes trekkers to the base of Mount Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world. This hike is the ideal adventure for women seeking privacy and pristine nature. The trail goes through thick forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts and presents breathtaking views of Makalu and other peaks. 

Due to the remoteness of this trek, careful preparation is needed, and it’s highly recommended to hire an experienced guide who is familiar with the area. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,300 meters (17,388 feet)
• Trek Duration: 16-22 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Camping
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Makalu Conservation Area Permit
• Major Highlights: Base of Makalu, pristine wilderness, views of Everest and other high peaks.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing.  

Pikey Peak Trek

If you are searching relatively cheaper, scenic alternative to Everest Base Camp, then why not go for Pikey Peak Trek. This short hike offers a brilliant sunrise view of Everest minus the crowds and logistics of the more popular but really crowded EBC route. The trek provides jaw-dropping views of other peaks in the area, including Lhotse, Nuptse and Makalu. 

For independent female trekkers or people on tight schedules, this is a great short itinerary with safe teahouses and easy trekking. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 4,065 meters (13,300 feet)
• Trek Duration: 4-5 days
• Trek Category: Easy to Moderate
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Permit
• Major Highlights: Sunrise view of Everest, views of Makalu and other peaks, fewer crowds.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Nar Phu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region. It has both beautiful, rugged Himalayan scenery and Tibetan culture that has been around for hundreds of years. This trek is great for women who want a real, peaceful experience away from the crowds. The valley is known for its steep gorges, old monasteries, and the unique villages of Nar and Phu.  

The trek is not too hard, but it is still an exciting way to see one of Nepal's most remote areas. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,000 meters (16,404 feet)
• Trek Duration: 10-14 days
• Trek Category: Moderate
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Camping
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, Special Permit
• Major Highlights: Tibetan culture, dramatic landscapes, secluded villages.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Three Passes Trek

The Three Passes Trek is a difficulty-hike for people who like challenges. This trip path leads you to the center of The Everest region with a passage of three high passes of Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La. It requires a very high level of fitness and some trekking experience, but the prize is massive—unbeatable 360° views of the Everest region and the Himalayas. 

For adventurous women who want a physical challenge among stunning landscapes. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 5,535 meters (18,159 feet)
• Trek Duration: 18-22 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Teahouses and Lodges
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Permit
• Major Highlights: Three high passes, panoramic Himalayan views, secluded villages.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is an incredible trek journey for adventurous, off-the-beaten-track trekkers. This trek in the far-western part of remote Nepal takes visitors to the base of the world’s seventh-highest peak, Mount Dhaulagiri. Its alpine wilderness glacier views and great isolation are ideal for women who want a challenge in the absence of crowds.  

This excursion involves the logistics of camping and needs to be well-planned because of the altitude and remoteness. 

Quick Insights: 

• Maximum Elevation: 4,750 meters (15,584 feet)
• Trek Duration: 14-18 days
• Trek Category: Challenging
• Accommodation Type: Camping
• Best Season: Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
• Trek Restrictions: None
• Trek Permits: TIMS, Dhaulagiri Conservation Area Permit
• Major Highlights: Dhaulagiri massif, alpine meadows, glacier views.
• Important Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and pack warm clothing. 

Tsum Valley Trek

The Tsum Valley trek is among the holiest places in Nepal. This is a peaceful hike through old monasteries, stone-carved mani-walls, and Tibetan Buddhist culture. It’s an excellent choice for women traveling alone who desire a cultural immersion and a route devoid of hordes.