Offbeat Adventures: 5 Hidden Gems for Hiking and Camping in Nepal

Travel
Life Style
The Buzz Nepal
July 23 , 2025

Nepal is celebrated worldwide for its iconic trekking routes like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley, to name a few. But beyond the classic trails lies a treasure trove of lesser-known destinations that are just as spectacular, if not more intimate and rewarding. For those seeking solitude, natural beauty, and an escape from the tourist crowds, these five underrated hiking and camping destinations offer the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned hiker, each spot is ideal for tent lovers, nature seekers, and offbeat explorers.

Khaptad National Park

Located in Nepal’s far-west, Khaptad National Park is a dream for those craving untouched beauty and spiritual calm. With rolling grasslands, dense forests, alpine meadows, and the revered Khaptad Baba Ashram, this region is perfect for camping and short hikes.

Pitch your tent on wide open plains known as “khaptads,” watch mist roll in during sunrise, and feel entirely disconnected from the noise of the outside world. The area is known for its medicinal herbs, wildflowers, and views of the Api and Saipal Himal ranges. It’s ideal for those looking for a raw, unplugged escape that blends nature and soul-searching.

Tsho Rolpa Lake

For campers and trekkers who love high-altitude lakes, Tsho Rolpa in Dolakha is an unforgettable destination. Located at 4,580 meters in the Rolwaling Valley, it is one of Nepal’s largest glacial lakes.

The trail to Tsho Rolpa is moderately challenging, winding through remote Sherpa settlements, lush forests, and thrilling suspension bridges. There are few teahouses, which makes it a perfect route for those who love self-sufficient camping. Wake up beside the icy turquoise lake with mountain reflections dancing on the water. It’s a lesser-trodden path that rewards with otherworldly silence and raw beauty.

Pikey Peak

Looking for a short trek with Himalayan grandeur? Pikey Peak, located in the lower Everest region, offers jaw-dropping sunrise views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu without the crowds or the altitude pressure of EBC.

This 5–6-day trek is great for beginner hikers who still want to camp beneath the stars. The trail winds through rhododendron forests, Buddhist monasteries, and traditional Sherpa villages. You can camp at Pikey Base or near lodges that allow tents and enjoy evenings by the fire with mountain silhouettes on the horizon. The reward? A sunrise you’ll never forget.

Rara Lake Trek and Camp

Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest and most pristine alpine lake, is a paradise for campers. Located in Mugu district of Karnali Province, it’s often dubbed “Heaven on Earth” and rightly so.

While many visit via flights and stay at lodges, a multi-day hike and camping trip around the lake or through the Rara-Jumla route takes the experience to a new level. Spend your days trekking through pine forests, yak pastures, and remote villages, then set up camp on the shores of the crystal-blue lake under a sky so clear it feels surreal. The silence here is powerful, making it one of the most soulful places to pitch a tent in Nepal.

Kapuche Lake

For those short on time but craving adventure, Kapuche Lake in Kaski District is a hidden gem. It’s the lowest-altitude glacial lake in Nepal at just 2,546 meters, making it perfect for weekend hiking and camping.

The trail starts from Sikles, a picturesque Gurung village, and leads you through forests, waterfalls, and narrow ridgelines. With minimal infrastructure, camping is the best way to enjoy the area. You’ll wake up to icy mountain views, chirping birds, and the calming rush of glacial streams. It’s an easy getaway from Pokhara that feels far more remote than it is.

Nepal’s beauty isn’t just in its peaks, it’s in the quiet corners, lesser-known lakes, and peaceful forests that offer unforgettable hiking and camping experiences. Whether it’s stargazing beside Tsho Rolpa or waking up to yak bells near Rara, these destinations let you reconnect with nature in its purest form.

So, pack your tent, lace up your boots, and chart your own path. Adventure doesn’t always follow the crowd and in Nepal, the real magic often lies off the beaten trail.