Family Friendly Treks in Nepal: Adventure for All
Sujata PokhrelNepal is known as one of the adventurous destinations as it is home to towering peaks covered with a white snow cap. But it isn’t the only identity of this beautiful country! You will also find a list of family friendly treks in Nepal that are fit for all ages of adventurers.
Being a land with varying landscapes at every thousand meters you elevate, there are different types of trekking trails on this route. Such shorter treks have moderate altitudes, gradual ascent, fewer walking days, and ample acclimatization options, making them ideal for kids and elderly people. Not only is your safety ensured, but these trails are comfortable and offer a wide range of experiences and enjoyment.
Apart from the thrill of mountain peaks, these treks also offer culture immersion in the local villages in the region. You can relax, enjoying traditional cuisines in traditional homestays, and let your kids learn about different cultures and traditions.
This blog lists such family-friendly treks in Nepal that you can enjoy on your next holiday.
Best Family Friendly Treks in Nepal
When it comes to the convenience of travelling with family, the Annapurna region offers various options. From the lengthier excursion of Annapurna Massif to the shorter treks fit for families with kids and the elderly, this region has it all.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is one of the most preferred family-friendly treks in Nepal. Despite being one of the shortest trekking routes, the views it offers of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges is one of the best. This trek takes you through the picturesque landscapes filled with attractive rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and charming villages.
Taking about 9 days of journey, the highest point and the highlight of this trek is the Poon Hill, situated at an elevation of 3210 meters from sea level. Not only does it offer the best views of peaks but also is a popular sunrise/sunset view point.
It is an ideal destination for a family treks as it has well-developed and safe trails with abundant options for food and lodging. The short trekking distances and lower elevation makes it convenient to ascent even with kids.
Ghandruk Village Trek
A trek to the charming Gurung settlement, the Ghandruk Village is a good family trek destination if you are looking to witness the natural wonders along with the finest cultural experience. This trek is often incorporated within the Annapurna Base Camp trek package but if you are travelling with your family then its possible to only trek to Ghandruk village.
To reach this village, you need to take drive to Nayapul then you can trek for about 6 to 7 miles to reach. The trekking distance is lesser and the highest elevation that you will experience is just 1940 meters from sea-level. In addition, you can also find comfortable accommodation and good food on this trekking route making it more convenient for staying with families. It also has cultural museum and local homestays to keep kids engaged once you’ve reached the village.
Dhampus Village Trek
Being closest hill to the Pokhara Valley, Dhampus is quite a popular picnic and weekend getaway destinations for both local and visitors. However the trek to Dhampus Village wasn’t known to many until now. With gradually rising elevation, this trail has luscious green forests and rice fields that give perfect backdrop for the family photos.
Upon reaching uphill, you will be able to enjoy the fascinating views of the Machhapuchre peak (the fishtail mountain) and Annapurna south ranges. Given its moderate elevation with the village itself being the highest point with an elevation of 1650 meters, this trek is best for younger children.
Australian Base Camp Trek
The Australian Base Camp is another family friendly trekking spot in Annapurna region. It is also famous among the beginners in hiking, trekking or someone looking for an acclimatization hike before summit. Donning an elevation of 2060 meters from sea-level, this trail comprises of ridge top-views, peaceful forests and panoramic vistas of the Annapurna range and Lamjung Himal.
Starting with a drive from Pokhara to Kande, this trek takes you about 2 to 3 days to complete covering a trekking distance of 8 kilometers. You can experience the rich biodiversity and cultural practices of the ethnic people residing on these hills along with natural beauty of the region. The trek also has some popular viewpoints for witnessing the golden sunrise and sunsets.
Short Family Friendly Treks in Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal also has a few family friendly trekking alternatives for those who have limited time or want a short excursion around the valley. Some of these options are:
Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek
The Kathmandu Valley Rim hike is the best way to catch the sunrise view of the mesmerizing Himalayas surrounding the valley, and also to get an idea of sturdy trails you will most likely find in the country. You can enjoy gentle walks, luxurious stays, and comfy local food whilst on this trek.
Starting from the beautiful village of Sundarijal, the Kathmandu Valley Rim hike takes you through mountains, hills, and rural villages of Nepal. This 3-day excursion offers you a captivating view of the Langtang range, Mount. Shishapangma, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Gauri Shankar ranges.
Sunrise and sunset views from Nagarkot are another unforgettable highlight of the hike. Eventually, the trek will lead you to a rich history and cultural experience of the Newari settlements of Bhaktapur city.
Shivapuri National Park Trek
If you are looking for an excursion that feels like a trek but can be done overnight then the trek is Shivapuri National Park is a good idea. You can enjoy therapeutic walk through green rhododendron forests, a visit to Nagi Gompa monastery, and enjoy birdwatching on this trek.
The hike to this serene atmosphere begins at the entrance of Shivapuri National Park and takes you through luscious oak and rhododendron forests. After hiking for approximately 2 hours, you will reach Nagi Gompa, where you can rest for a few hours. The monastery is actually dedicated to nuns who practice Buddhist Philosophy, rituals, and meditation.
Being at an elevation of 2732 meters, this trek also offers the best view of nearby Himalayan ranges like Ganesh Himal and Langtang-Lirung.
Chisapani Trek
The Chisapani trek is another exciting short excursion of the hills surrounding Kathmandu Valley. This 2 day trek begins from Sundarijal, a river in the northern side of the valley and leads you through dense forests, natural waterfalls, and Tamang villages to Chisapani Village. After reaching, you can stay in local homestays to enjoy culture and experience lifestyle of the mixed people in this region. You will also be able to enjoy the iconic views of the Langtang and Jugal Himal ranges from this trek.
Balthali Village Trek
Once a popular short trek destination, the Balthali Village is quite a gem when it comes to getting a taste of Nepal and culture of its people. This 3 day trek is more of an experience of the rural charm and the typical Newari culture. You can stay in village lodges or enjoy luxury of the Balthali Village resort to sink into the unique experiences.
Family Adventure Treks in Nepal
There is no doubt that Nepal has multiple adventurous trekking destinations to dare the devil inside you. But, when it comes to travelling with family, we often seek the destinations that are safe, less treacherous and less-tiring. However, if you are a family who is looking for adventurous trek that’s noteworthy along with being safe, the Everest Panorama trek, the Tamang Heritage trek, and Helambu Trek are some best options to offer.
While having moderate level of difficulties, these treks also are safe and include the vivid cultural experiences too. Taking deeper into the lap of Himalayas, these treks give a sense of accomplishment while being safe for all age groups.
FAQs
Expand AllWhat are the Best Family Treks in Nepal?
Nepal has several option of the family trek destination and some of these are Ghandruk Village, Ghorepani- Poon Hill trek, Balthali Village trek, and Tamang Heritage trail.
Which Treks are Suitable for Families in Nepal?
The trekking trails that have an elevation below 3500 meters with well-established tea houses and ease of access are the suitable treks for families in Nepal. Some of these options are Ghorepani-Poon Hill trek, Kathmandu Valley Rim trek, the Balthali Village trek etc.
What Makes a Trek Family-Friendly in Nepal?
The right weather, moderate altitude, well-established facilities along with the best experience of nature, culture, and history makes a trek family friendly in Nepal.
Can Children Join Trekking Tours in Nepal?
Yes, absolutely! Children can definitely join trekking tours in Nepal as it has family-friendly trekking destinations.
Are there easy family treks in Nepal?
Yes, there are easily family treks like Dhampus Village trek, Australian Base Camp trek, Balthali Village trek etc. in Nepal.
How to plan a family trek in Nepal?
The best way to plan a family trek in Nepal is to consult a good travel agency like Awesome Holidays Nepal that customizes your itinerary based on your requirements. Start with choosing a destination that has lower elevation and well-built trekking trails.
What is the best time for family trekking in Nepal?
The spring seasons (May to March) and Fall seasons (September to November) are the best time for family trekking in Nepal.
How many days do family treks usually take in Nepal?
The family treks usually take 2 to 7 days, depending upon your location and the itinerary you choose.
What permits are needed for family treks in Nepal?
The permits required for a family trek is similar to the standard treks and vary depending on which region you are planning to travel too. If you are looking to trek in Annapurna region, you will need TIMS (Travelers Information Management System) card and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).
How to choose a trekking package for families?
While choosing a trekking package for families, look for flexible transport options, kid-friendly activities, options for family rooms, and ease of the route.
Are there adventure treks suitable for families in Nepal?
Yes, there are a few adventure treks suitable for families in Nepal. Some of these options are: Tamang Heritage Trek, Everest Panorama Trek, Helambu trek.
Which family treks offer cultural experiences?
Most of the family treks in Nepal offer an immersive cultural experiences but if one has to take names of few then it would be, the Ghandruk Village trek, Tamang Heritage trek, and Balthali Village trek.
Are there short treks for families in Nepal?
Yes, there are many short treks for families like Dhampus Village trek, Shivapuri National Park trek, Australian Base Camp trek etc.
Can families do Annapurna Circuit together?
It might not be possible to complete the whole of Annapurna Circuit together with a family but you can explore sections of these circuit like Manang, Muktinath trek etc.
Are there Everest Base Camp options suitable for families?
The Everest Base Camp trek is too challenging for accomplishing with a family but you can do a Heli-excursion of the base camp if you are really want see the top of the world with your own eyes.
What is the minimum age for children on Nepal family treks?
There is no legal minimum age for children on Nepal family treks but its better to take ones above 6 to make sure they can walk on their own.
Are there treks suitable for toddlers or young children?
If you want to carry your toddlers or young children and trek then the short Ghandruk trek, Dhampus trek, Shivapuri trek are some options.
Can elderly family members join trekking tours?
Yes, as long as the elderly family member can walk on their own, they can join the trekking tours.
What level of fitness is required for family treks?
You need a moderate level of fitness for family treks as you need to comfortably walk 8 to 12 kilometers distance comprising of rough and uneven trails.
What type of accommodation is available on family treks?
You will primarily find tea houses, standard lodges or local homestays as accommodation on family treks.
Are lodges and tea houses safe for children?
Yes, lodges and tea houses are absolutely safer for children.
Do trekking agencies provide guides for family groups?
Yes, the trekking agencies provide guides for family groups if you request for one.
Are porter services available for family treks?
Yes, porter services are available for any treks but if you request an additional one for your family, you can get it easily.
Can families hire private guides for treks?
Yes, absolutely! Families can hire private guides to assist them during treks.
Are medical facilities available on family treks?
Yes, medical facilities are available on family treks.
How to manage altitude sickness for children?
To manage altitude sickness for children while on the trek, choose the destination with lower elevation, acclimatize while changing altitude and ascent gradually.
Are there emergency evacuation options for families?
Yes, there are emergency evacuation options for families in case of disasters or any fatal emergency case. But you will have to get a trek insurance to be able to use this facility.
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