Ten permit-free trekking destinations in Nepal for once-in-a-lifetime adventures

Nepal offers a variety of permit-free trekking destinations, including Panch Pokhari, Ama Yangri, Pikey Peak, Panchase, Sailung, Khumai Danda, Mundhum Trail, Guerilla trial, Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda, Khopra, and Dhaulagiri mountain. These hidden gems are perfect for those looking for adventure without a guide and offer stunning views of mountains and valleys.Panchase is an ideal route to start and end your trek in Pokhara, offering beautiful scenery and views of the Annapurna range. Sailung is the easiest permit-free trekking destination in Nepal, offering great views of Everest, Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu. Khumai Danda is a recently developed trekking route around Pokhara, offering an up-close view of Machhapuchhre. Mundhum Trail is a challenging but rewarding trail that passes through remote Nepal and offers panoramic views of low mountain ranges and southern plains. Guerrilla trial is another tough route used by Maoist rebels during the civil war. Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda are unique areas within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, but there are no offices to check for TMS permits. Khopra Danda offers great views of Dhaulagiri mountain and is within touching distance of Annapurna South.

 1. Panch Pokhari

The Pitch Pokhari trek, located three days from Kathmandu, offers stunning views of the Jungal mountain range and five ponds at 4,000 meters and above. Although lodges lack individual rooms, it's an ideal camping destination with moderate difficulty.

Panch Pokhari is an underrated trek with stunning views of the Jungal mountain range and is only three days away from Kathmandu.

2. Ama Yangri

Ama Yangri is a hilltop with stunning views of Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and even Everest. Pikey Peak offers magnificent views of surrounding hills and mountain ranges, making it an ideal destination for those looking to see Everest.

3. Pikey Peak

Pikey Peak, located in lower Solukhumbu, offers stunning views of surrounding hills and mountain ranges, with renowned sunrises, and can be completed in five days if done fast.

4. Panchase

The Panchase trek, starting and ending in Pokhara, offers stunning Annapurna range views and beautiful scenery and can be completed in three days for short-term travelers. The trek takes you through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced farmlands, providing a unique cultural experience along with breathtaking natural beauty. With a moderate difficulty level, it is suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers seeking a quick adventure in the Himalayas.  

5. Sailung

This is probably the easiest permit-free trekking destination in Nepal. The trail is ideal for camping as the place does not have many tea houses. But what it offers are great views of Everest, Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, the Langtang Range, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu. There is also a 600-year-old monastery in the region as you make your way to Sailung Peak. This trek is best done in groups. The Sailung Peak trek is a great option for those seeking a less crowded and more secluded trekking experience in Nepal. The absence of tea houses allows trekkers to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings and enjoy peaceful camping nights under the starry sky. Additionally, traveling in groups not only enhances safety but also provides an opportunity for shared experiences and camaraderie along the trail. 

6. Khumai Danda

Khumai Dada is a newly developed trekking route north of Pokhara, offering an up-close view of Machhapuchhre. Part of the Machhapuchhre Model Trek, it's a permit-free destination with stunning views of Annapurna, Lamjung, and Korchan. The Khumai Dada trekking route is gaining popularity among adventure enthusiasts due to its untouched natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. This off-the-beaten-path destination allows trekkers to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the warm hospitality of the Gurung community, making it a truly unique trekking experience in Nepal. 

7. Mundhum Trail

The Mundhum Trail, located in eastern Nepal, offers adventure and challenging trekking. Known for its low mountain ranges and southern plains, it has been used by locals for years but opened to trekkers in 2018. The Mundhum Trail is a hidden gem that allows trekkers to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities residing in the region. With its diverse landscapes and breathtaking views, this trail provides a unique opportunity to explore the unexplored beauty of eastern Nepal. 

8. Guerilla trial

The Guerrilla Trek, a challenging route in western Nepal, was used by Maoist rebels during the civil war. Despite its rugged terrain and panoramic views, it remains unmodernized. The Guerrilla Trek, located in western Nepal, offers a unique and adventurous experience to hikers. This route holds historical significance as it was utilized by Maoist rebels during the civil war, adding an intriguing aspect to the journey. Although it has maintained its rugged terrain and breathtaking panoramic views, the lack of modernization adds to its allure and authenticity. 

9. Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda

Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda, unique glacial lakes in Nepal, are part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, but no TISS permit offices exist. As a result, visitors to these lakes do not require a TISS permit to access them. However, it is important for travelers to be mindful of the conservation efforts in place and respect the natural beauty of these lakes. 

10. Khopra

Khopra Danda, a permit-free trekking destination in the ACAP region, offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri and is conveniently located near Annapurna South with a nearby lake for unforgettable experiences. This off-the-beaten-path trekking destination is known for its pristine natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. The tranquil lake in the vicinity adds to the charm of Khopra Danda, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.