Top 10 Trekking Peaks in Himalaya Nepal

I know about trekking - but what is a trekking peak?

Generally, trekking peaks are those peaks that are less than 7,000 meters. They are sometimes defined as easier-to-climb peaks that don't require pre-climbing experience and training. However, this is only partially true, as some peaks under 7,000 meters are very difficult to ascend, requiring previous climbing experience and proper climbing equipment.

Most trekking peaks are considered easy, but they test your endurance and willpower. Thorough preparation is crucial to avoid any consequences in the Himalayas. Below are some essential items to check:

• A satellite phone
• Proper acclimatization plan
• High-quality equipment
• Experienced climbing guide

To help you choose the perfect peak climbing experience, we have listed the top 10 trekking peaks in the Himalayas of Nepal based on popularity, climbers' interest, and success rates.

Island Peak

Island Peak climbing is the most sought-after trekking peak in Nepal. It is located in the Everest region and takes you into the world of the famous mountain dwellers - the Sherpas. The peak requires some knowledge of technical equipment, and the ascent is challenging enough to provide a full experience of mountain climbing.

You can take the classic Everest Base Camp route up to Dingboche, then head to Chukkung and enter the territory of Imja Tse. From the top, you can enjoy the closest view of Mt. Lhotse (the world's 4th highest mountain). For first-timers, this is a great introductory climb into the world of high-altitude mountaineering. Combining the Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak climbing enhances the experience and increases the success rate of the ascent.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,160m (20,196ft)
• Location: Khumbu (Everest) Region
• Difficulty Grade: Slightly Difficult - PD (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• First Ascent: British Expedition in 1953
• Climbing Season: Spring (April, May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 16+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 1-2 Days

Mera Peak

Mera Peak is known as the highest trekking peak. The peak offers stunning views of the highest mountains, including Mt. Cho Oyu (8201m), Lhotse (8516m), and Everest (8848m). Climbing Mera is more challenging than Island Peak and is the second most popular trekking peak in Nepal.

Located in the Makalu Barun National Park, the journey to Mera Peak takes you through less-trodden trails, frozen lakes, glaciers, rhododendrons, monasteries, and serene views. A well-planned itinerary with proper acclimatization ensures the best chance of successfully reaching the summit of Mera Peak.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,476 m (21,247 ft)
• Location: Hinku Valley
• Difficulty Grade: Slightly Difficult - PD (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• First Ascent: Col. Jimmy Roberts and Sen Tenzing, 1953
• Climbing Season: Spring (April, May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 16+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 3 Days

Pisang Peak

Pisang Peak is a popular trekking peak in the Annapurna Region. The climbing experience is best enjoyed with the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which takes you through the world's widest pass - the Thorang La Pass. Pisang Peak is relatively more technical than Island Peak, requiring physical fitness and climbing training.

During the ascent, climbers camp at High Camp (5200m) before the final push to the summit. From the top, the view of the entire Annapurna range is breathtaking. Proper acclimatization and preparation are crucial for a successful ascent.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,476 m (21,247 ft)
• Location: Annapurna Region
• Difficulty Grade: Slightly Difficult - PD (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• First Ascent: German Team, 1955
• Climbing Season: Spring (March, April) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 18 Days with Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Climbing Duration: 2 Days

Lobuche East Peak

Lobuche East is another challenging peak in the Khumbu region. It can be combined with the Everest Base Camp trek for better acclimatization and a higher success rate. Some adventurers also combine this peak with Island Peak for a more adventurous mountaineering experience.

The climb includes passing through Kala Patthar (5,545m), the world's best trekking viewpoint for the view of Mt. Everest. From the summit, climbers enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Nuptse, and Pumori. Lobuche East is challenging but does not require previous climbing experience. It should not be confused with Lobuche West, which is an expedition peak requiring proper training and a different license.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,119 m (20,075 ft)
• Location: Khumbu (Everest) Region
• Difficulty Grade: Easy, F (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• First Ascent: Laurence Nielson and Sherpa Ang Gyalzen, 1984
• Climbing Season: Spring (March, April, May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 14+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 3 Days

Lobuche West Peak

Lobuche West is a recently reclassified expedition peak now categorized as a trekking peak. It is distinct from Lobuche East and requires more technical skills, training, and experience for a successful ascent.

The peak is located in the Everest Region, offering exposure to Sherpa culture, high-altitude monasteries, and stunning views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam. Previous climbing experience is recommended for Lobuche West, making it a suitable challenge for climbers with experience.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,135 m (20,127 ft)
• Location: Khumbu (Everest) Region
• Difficulty Grade: Easy, F (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• First Ascent: Recent data not public
• Climbing Season: Spring (March, April, May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 19+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 4 Days (Includes Reserve Day)

Chulu East Peak

At the top of Chulu East, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurnas II, III, and IV, Gangapurna, Glacier Dome, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak, and Manaslu. The peak requires the use of ice axes, crampons, and harnesses, making it essential to have basic climbing skills.

The climb is best combined with the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek, which includes passing through the Thorang La Pass, the world's widest pass. The journey includes traversing forests of pine and rhododendrons, meadows, and Gurung villages. Hiring an experienced climbing guide and having proper health insurance and gear are essential for this climb.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,584 m (21,601 ft)
• Location: Manang District (Near Annapurna Region)
• Difficulty Grade: Slightly Difficult - PD (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• First Ascent: Dick Isherwood and John Noble, 1979
• Climbing Season: Spring (March, April, May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 16+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 3 Days (Requires Reserve Day)

Chulu West Peak

Chulu West is the sibling of Chulu East Peak , both categorized as trekking peaks. The route to Chulu West follows the classic Annapurna Base Camp trek route, but the adventure is enhanced by combining it with the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The climb offers views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna, and other Himalayas.

This peak requires a high level of stamina and physical condition, making it a perfect challenge for experienced climbers. The experience is unforgettable, and the climb requires thorough preparation and acclimatization.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,419 m (21,060 ft)
• Location: Manang District (Annapurna Region)
• Difficulty Grade: Slightly Difficult - PD (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• First Ascent: Japanese expedition under Masataka Takagi, 1952
• Climbing Season: Spring (March, April, May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 18+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 5 Days (Requires Reserve Day)

Dhampus Peak

Dhampus Peak, also known as Thapa Peak, is surrounded by the massive Himalayas. From the summit, climbers can view over 30 distinct mountains, including Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri I, Nilgiri, Sita Chuchura, Tukche Peak, Thorong Peak, Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kan, Mukut Himal, Puth Hiunchuli, Tangu Peak, Tsarste, and Hongde Peak.

The primary challenge of this trek is the altitude, making it suitable for climbers without prior climbing experience. The adventure offers a rewarding experience of walking in high-altitude snow.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,012 m (19,724 ft)
• Location: Dhaulagiri Area (Near Annapurna Region)
• Difficulty Grade: Slightly Difficult - PD (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• Climbing Season: Spring (March, April) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 14+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 4 Days (Requires Reserve Day)

Yala Peak

Yala Peak is an ideal choice for beginners looking to move from trekking to climbing and escape the crowds of the Everest Region. The climb does not require technical experience and offers a full experience of Tibetan-influenced culture, including visits to monasteries and gompas. From the summit, climbers can see Langtang Lirung, Lenpo Gang, Dorje Lakpa, and Shishapangma.

Yala Peak is perfect for busy tourists seeking a short-duration climb.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 5,700 m (18,700 ft)
• Location: Langtang Region
• Difficulty Grade: Easy, F (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• Climbing Season: Spring (March, April) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 11+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 1 Day

Pharchamo Peak

Pharchamo Peak is an interesting trekking peak located south of the Tashi Lapcha Pass (5,760m), connecting the Khumbu Valley and Rolwaling. The climb requires focus and stability, with the Khumbu side route via Namche Bazaar and Thame village serving as an alternative route.

Pharchamo climbing explores the hidden parts of the Rolwaling and Khumbu regions, offering a unique experience through glaciers, vegetation, and diverse ethnic communities.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 6,187 m (20,300 ft)
• Location: Rolwaling
• Difficulty Grade: Easy, F (French Adjectival system, IFAS)
• Climbing Season: Spring (March-May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 17+ Days
• Climbing Duration: 1 Day

Tent Peak (Tharpu Chuli)

Tent Peak, also known as Tharpu Chuli, is notable for its location surrounded by mountains like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Fang, and Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail). Located in the middle of the Annapurna Range, the peak is covered with snow, and hiring snow equipment is sufficient to summit the peak.

The adventure begins through the city of Lakes, enjoying views of Mt. Fishtail, and culminates with a 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan massifs from the summit.

Peak Facts:

• Ascent Height: 5,663 m (18,579 ft)
• Location: Annapurna Region
• Difficulty Grade: Easy, F (French Adjectival System, IFAS)
• Climbing Season: Spring (March-May) and autumn (October, November)
• Duration: 14+ Days (from Pokhara)
• Climbing Duration: 1 Day