Nepal tops the list as the world’s ultimate adventure travel destination and for good reason. Its high valleys and soaring Himalayan peaks offer an endless array of trekking possibilities, each more captivating than the last.

Two regions, however, stand out for their breathtaking mountain scenery and enduring appeal. So, which Himalayan path will you follow?

The Khumbu offers some of the most celebrated trekking in the world, offering dramatic landscapes, vibrant Sherpa culture and breathtaking mountain vistas. Most journeys begin with a thrilling flight into the high-altitude airstrip at Lukla (2,860m), followed by a two-day trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m). This bustling Sherpa hub is the perfect place to acclimatise before venturing into the higher Khumbu valleys. Everest Base Camp is the ultimate milestone for trekkers wanting to walk in the footsteps of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, but for those seeking quieter trails, trekking the high passes over 5,000m reveals glistening turquoise lakes and sweeping panoramas. There are also non-technical climbs to enjoy such as Mera Peak and Pokalde, offering unique vantage points over the region’s icy giants.

The Khumbu also hosts the annual Everest Marathon on 29 May, a challenging high-altitude test for trail runners. For those wanting a more indulgent experience, there are luxury lodge trekking options, which blend high mountain trekking with first-class comfort, creating an unforgettable way to explore one of the planet’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Treks in the Annapurnas begin at lower elevations than those in the Khumbu, with some itineraries flying from Kathmandu to Nepal’s relaxed second city, Pokhara (900m), while others journey overland into the deep Marsyangdi Valley, the gateway to the northern range. Heading to the north side of the range, the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek gradually ascends from the lush, humid and densely forested Modi Khola Valley, winding past terraced fields, rhododendron groves and rushing streams, before reaching the stark, snow-and-ice-covered realm above 4,000m - simply breathtaking.

Slightly more demanding, the iconic Annapurna Circuit links the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki Valleys, crosses the high Thorung La Pass (5,416m) and reveals breathtaking mountain vistas along the way. For those seeking quieter, less-travelled trails, a detour into the Hidden Valleys of Naar and Phu offers a rare glimpse of what this region was like four decades ago. For trekkers who love camping, solitude and untouched landscapes, a rewarding route awaits on the southern slopes of Lamjung Himal, well off-the-beaten track.

We hope this guide has sparked your wanderlust and helped you decide which Himalayan adventure is right for you. Dive into all of our Everest and Annapurna adventures below and start planning your journey to the roof of the world!