When people talk about trekking in Nepal, most only think about Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit. But the Himalaya is so big and has so numerous trails that it's still not crowded. Some treks are still quiet, peaceful and full of culture and nature. These treks have n't become notorious like others, but their beauty and experience are veritably richThat's why if you want to explore real Nepal, you must try hidden treks like the Upper Mustang Trek, the Mardi Himal Trek, and the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.
Why Choose Hidden Treks?
Hidden treks are not just about walking. It is about going where few people go. On a busy trail, there are so many tourists and noise. But in hidden treks, you feel peace. You see local life more closely. Also, you help local people who do not get many visitors. These treks are also cleaner and not overbuilt with many hotels. You walk slowly, enjoy the mountain, talk with villagers, and see the Himalayas in different ways.
Let's talk more about the three amazing hidden treks.
1. Upper Mustang Trek – Kingdom Lost in Time
Upper Mustang trek is different from other corridors of Nepal. It's a dry, desert-like place with big escarpments, grottoes , and various jewels. This region was part of the old Tibetan area and still keeps that culture. For a long time, this place was closed to non-natives. Now it's open, but still only many people go.
Why Is This Trek Unique?
When you go to the Upper Mustang, you do not just walk in the mountains. You walk in history. The houses are made from mud and wood. The people wear warm dresses and hats. The land is dry but beautiful. You see chorten, prayer flags, and big monasteries everywhere.
Lo Manthang is the main village, like a small walled city. There you feel like time stops. The old palace is there, and you can see the king's family house. Also, the cave of Chhoser has many rooms inside the rock, which is very surprising.
Trekking Route
The trek starts from Jomsom. You fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, and also walk to Kagbeni. From there, permit checks be, also you go to Chele, Syangbochen, Ghami, and Tsarang and reach Lo Manthang. You come back by the same or another way, like Dhakmar. The whole trek takes 12 to 14 days.
Permit and Cost
Upper Mustang needs a special permit. It cost $500 for 10 days. If you stay longer, you pay $50 per extra day. Also need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A guide is a must; no solo trekking allowed.
Culture and People
People here are called Lobas. They follow Tibetan Buddhism.Their language, dress, and food are each different. They celebrate the Tiji Festival in May, which is veritably various and full of cotillion and music. You can eat thukpa, tsampa, and drink salty adulation tea.
2. Mardi Himal Trek – Short but Full of Beauty
The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden jewel near Pokhara. It is a short trek but gives a big mountain view. The trail goes through forest and ridge and reaches near to Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre). Before, this trail was used by shepherds. Now small teahouses have been built, and people have started going, but it's still not very crowded.
Why Do People Love It?
This trek is not far. In a few hours from Pokhara, you are on a trail. And every day walk gives you a new view. First, you walk inside the rhododendron forest. Then slowly come to the open ridge. Then you see Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre very close. When you wake up at High Camp and see the sunrise, it feels magical.
Route and Duration
Start from Kande or Dhampus. Then go to Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and Base Camp. Some people go to Badal Danda also. The whole trek is 5 to 7 days. You return the same way or differently, like Siding Village.
Easy and Affordable
You do not need a guide, but it helps. Trek is not hard. The trail is well marked. No need for a special permit, only TIMS and ACAP. Tea houses are clean, and the food is tasty. Dal Bhat powers 24 hours.
Best Season
Spring and autumn are the best times. In spring, rhododendron flowers are everywhere. In winter, the trail is also open, but cold. Monsoon is not good because forests become wet and slippery.
3. Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek – Wild, Sacred, and Silent
This trek is a real hidden Himalaya. The Manaslu area was not open for foreigners before. Now open, but only limited people go. You combine two treks here—first you visit Tsum Valley, then continue to Manaslu Circuit. It is a long trek, but every day is wonderful.
Why Is It So Special?
Tsum Valley is called the hidden valley of happiness. People here follow ancient Buddhist culture. They have monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa.Life is simple, and people are veritably friendly. Also the Manaslu Circuit takes you around the 8th loftiest mountain in the world — Mt. Manaslu( 8163 m).You cross high Larke Pass and see many peaks.
Route Plan
Start from Soti Khola. Walk to Machha Khola, then enter Tsum Valley. Visit Chumling, Chhekamparo, and Mu Gompa, also return to join the Manaslu trail. also go to Samagaon, Samdo, and Dharmasala, cross Larke Pass to Bhimtang, and end at Dharapani.
The whole trek takes 18 to 21 days. It is tough but very rewarding.
Permit and Guide
You need a restricted area permit for Tsum and Manaslu. It costs around $100 to $150 depending on the season. I also need an MCAP and ACAP permit. Solo treks are not allowed. Guide and group minimum of 2 people.
Culture, Nature, and View
In Tsum Valley, people still follow the old way. They chant prayers, do butter lamp offerings, and live peacefully. No violence, no killing animals.On the Manaslu side, you see glaciers, alpine lakes, and huge mountains. Samagaon is a big vill, and from there you can hike to Manaslu Base Camp also.
When to Trek in the Hidden Himalayas?
Spring( March – May) and Afterlife( September – November) are stylish. The rainfall is clear, there's no rain, and the sky is blue. In spring, flowers bloom. In the afterlife, the view is sharp and fresh after the thunderstorm.
Upper Mustang is also good in the thunderstorm( June – August) because it's a rain- shadow area. Manaslu and Mardi are n't good in thunderstorms because the trail becomes muddy and there's a landslide threat.
Winter is okay for Mardi if there is no snow. Mustang and Manaslu are very cold in winter, so many teahouses close.
Accommodation and Food
All three treks now have tea houses. The room is simple but enough. You get a bed, blanket, and sometimes a hot shower. In high places, it is cold at night, so carry a warm sleeping bag.
Food mostly is dal bhat, noodle, soup, pancake, momo. In Tsum and Mustang, you also get thukpa and Tibetan bread. Tea, coffee, and sometimes fresh yak milk are available.
Electricity is not everywhere, so better carry a power bank. Wi-Fi is rare, enjoy offline life.
Packing Tips for Hidden Treks
- Good trekking boot
- Warm jacket and sleeping bag
- Trekking pole for support
- Water bottle with filter or purification tablet
- Headlamp with extra battery
- Basic medicine, especially for altitude
- Passport copy and permit
- Snacks like chocolate, nuts
- Camera for memory
The weather can change fast in the mountains. Always check the forecast. Don't forget sunblock and sunglasses because the sun is strong in high places.
Tips Before You Go
- Walk slow and drink water
- Respect local culture and monastery rule
- Don't throw plastic, use reusable items
- Talk with local, learn their story
- Don't take photo without asking
- Carry Nepali money, no ATM in trail
- Train little bit before trek
Conclusion: Walk Where Few Have Walked
Nepal has so many treks, but not all are the same. Some treks are full of crowds and luxury. But some treks are still quiet, raw, and full of heart. Upper Mustang, Mardi Himal, and Manaslu Tsum Valley are n't notorious like Everest, but they've commodity further – feeling, silence, culture, and connection.
When you walk in Upper Mustang, you touch an ancient kingdom. When you reach Mardi Base Camp, you feel like flying in the mountains. When you cross Larke Pass in Manaslu after seeing Tsum Valley, your heart becomes light and full of joy.
These treks are not for people who want luxury. This trek is for people who want a real trek. You will not only see mountains, you will feel them. You will not just take photos, you will live moments.
So if you are planning to trek in Nepal, try to go beyond the famous. Try these hidden Himalayas. They are waiting for you with open hearts and a big sky.
FAQs
- Is Mardi Himal Trek okay for beginners?
Yes. It is short and not very hard. Beginners can do it with a guide or slow pace. - Can solo trekkers go to the Upper Mustang?
No. You must go with a guide and a minimum of 2 people for a permit. - What is the highest point in Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
Larke La Pass, 5,160 meters is the highest point. - How expensive is Upper Mustang Trek?
The permit alone cost $500 for 10 days, so it cost more than a normal trek. - Can I visit Tsum Valley only?
Yes, but better to combine with Manaslu for full experience.
Contact Details
Company address: Everest Trekking Routes Pvt. Ltd.
16 Khumbu, Nayabazaar, Kathmandu, Nepal
Mobile : +977-9843467921 (Rabin)
Email: info@everesttrekkingroutes.com
URL:- www.everesttrekkingroutes.com
