Nepal, a country gifted with some of the world’s most iconic trekking routes, offers far more than just single-destination hikes. For those seeking more variety, adventure, and value for time spent in the mountains, combining two trekking routes into one extended journey is the perfect solution.
These combinations not only deepen your cultural experience and increase your altitude adaptability but also allow you to witness multiple Himalayan landscapes and reach a variety of vantage points in a single itinerary.
Whether you’re an experienced trekker looking to maximize your time in the Himalayas or a first-timer seeking a richer experience, here are eight of the best combined treks in Nepal you can undertake for an unforgettable adventure.
Contents
- 1 1.Ghorepani Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- 2 2.Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass
- 3 3.Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Climbing
- 4 4.Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek
- 5 5.Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek
- 6 6.Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek
- 7 7.Langtang Valley and Gosainkunda Trek
- 8 8.Upper Mustang and Damodar Kunda Trek
- 9 Final Thoughts
1.Ghorepani Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek
One of the most popular combinations in the Annapurna region, this route merges the scenic sunrise trek to Poon Hill with the classic Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. The journey typically begins from Nayapul or Tikhedhunga, leading through Ghorepani to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210 meters.
After enjoying panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Nilgiri, trekkers descend to Tadapani and Chhomrong, before ascending through Bamboo and Deurali to reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters.
Combining these treks provides a gradual ascent, which helps with acclimatization. You also get to witness contrasting landscapes—from rhododendron forests and terraced farmlands to high alpine terrain. The best time to do this combined trek is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).
2.Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass
Instead of following the standard Everest Base Camp route, trekkers can opt for a more scenic and challenging approach via Gokyo Lakes. The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes starts from Lukla, heading to Namche Bazaar, then branches off toward the tranquil Gokyo Valley, home to a series of pristine turquoise lakes.
After reaching Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters) for jaw-dropping views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu, the trail crosses the high-altitude Cho La Pass (5,420 meters) to reconnect with the main Everest Base Camp route in Dzongla and onward to Lobuche and Gorakshep.
This combination gives you both the iconic Everest Base Camp experience and the serenity of the less-crowded Gokyo Lakes. It is best undertaken in autumn or spring, with clear skies and more stable weather at higher passes.
3.Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Climbing
For those seeking a trek-and-climb adventure, combining Everest Base Camp with Island Peak (Imja Tse) climbing is a thrilling choice. After reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) and Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) for the best views of Everest, trekkers return to Lobuche and then divert to Chhukung to begin the Island Peak expedition.
Island Peak, at 6,189 meters, is a beginner-friendly trekking peak that offers a non-technical yet demanding climb. The combination is ideal for adventurers who want a taste of Himalayan mountaineering along with the classic trekking experience. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for this, offering clear summit windows and safer climbing conditions.
4.Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is already renowned for its diverse geography and cultural richness, but adding Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 meters, enhances the journey significantly. From Manang, trekkers take a detour to Tilicho Base Camp and then visit Tilicho Lake, before rejoining the circuit and crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) to reach Muktinath.
This combination presents more challenging terrain and higher elevations but offers unparalleled views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri. The vivid lake, surrounded by glaciers and rugged cliffs, makes the detour worthwhile. The ideal time for this trek is from late September to early December and March to May.
5.Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek
For hardcore trekkers with time and stamina, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be extended into the Annapurna Circuit by continuing from Dharapani after crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters).
The combined trek offers an immersive experience of two unique regions: Manaslu, which is remote, culturally Tibetan, and less crowded, and Annapurna, which is diverse, more developed, and filled with teahouse comfort.
You’ll witness two high passes, remote Buddhist villages, the transition from sub-tropical to alpine zones, and views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), Annapurna II, and Dhaulagiri. This mega circuit trek is best done in autumn or spring, and due to its restricted status, a licensed guide is mandatory for the Manaslu region.
6.Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek
Both of these treks start near Pokhara and are relatively short compared to other high-altitude trails, making them ideal to combine. Trekkers can begin with Mardi Himal, reaching the base camp at 4,500 meters for close-up views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South, then descend to Landruk or Jhinu Danda and merge onto the Annapurna Base Camp route.
This combination offers variety—less-traveled ridgelines with dramatic cliffside views in Mardi, and a classic alpine experience at Annapurna Base Camp. It also helps with gradual acclimatization and fits well within a 15–17 day itinerary. The best seasons are spring and autumn, when rhododendrons bloom and skies are clearest.
7.Langtang Valley and Gosainkunda Trek
Located north of Kathmandu, the Langtang Valley trek can be seamlessly combined with the Gosainkunda Lake trek for a scenic and spiritual journey. The trek starts from Syabrubesi, leading to the alpine valley of Kyanjin Gompa, surrounded by Langtang Lirung and glaciers. After returning to Lama Hotel, the route heads toward Gosainkunda, a sacred lake complex at around 4,380 meters.
This combination lets you explore glacial landscapes, high ridges, holy lakes, and Tamang culture in one trip. It’s best undertaken in spring or autumn and is suitable for trekkers with moderate experience looking for a peaceful yet rewarding adventure near Kathmandu.
8.Upper Mustang and Damodar Kunda Trek
For those seeking a cultural and spiritual Himalayan odyssey, the Upper Mustang trek can be extended to include the Damodar Kunda, a sacred lake at 4,890 meters revered by Hindus. After exploring the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the trek continues toward Yara and Luri Gompa, before heading to Damodar Kunda via Batsyak La.
The landscape is barren, Tibetan in culture, and deeply spiritual. You’ll witness striking desert canyons, eroded cliffs, and cave monasteries with views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna. Due to restricted access, a special permit and a registered guide are mandatory. This combination trek is best done from May to October, avoiding the harsh winter months.
Final Thoughts
Combining treks in Nepal allows you to go beyond the traditional routes and embrace a more immersive, adventurous, and rewarding journey through the Himalayas. Whether you’re chasing sunrises from Poon Hill, glacial lakes in Gokyo, or sacred summits like Island Peak, Nepal’s terrain lets you craft customized itineraries that blend physical challenge, spiritual richness, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
With proper planning, acclimatization, and guidance, these combined treks offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll treasure forever.
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