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The Kingdom of
Nepal is well known as one of the best destinations in the
world for enjoying the real beauty of nature through trekking.
The trail into the interior parts of the country follows
ancient foot-trails which meander through scenic river-banks,
intricately terraced fields and the forested ridges connecting
picturesque hamlets and mountain villages. Trekkers can walk
along the rough but beautiful trails or virgin tracks in the
lap of green and friendly looking hills. The rhododendron-filled,
green, dark and deep forests with different seasonal flowers
blossoming can catch anyone's eye as can the scattered
residential cottages, domestic and forest animals, variety of
birds, both Hindus and Buddhist temples, mountains,
breath-taking landscape, and above all warm greeting from
smiling local people. The highly developed and well-defined
trails have been used for centuries. Trekking in Nepal is an
all season activity. It is possible at any time of the year
depending on where one wishes to go. However, the most popular
season are spring (February - May ) and autumn (September-Nevember).
Even during the monsoon season (June- ugust), you can trek in
the rain- shadow areas north of the Himalaya like Mustang,
Upper Manang and Dolpo. |
Annapurna Region:
The diverse terrain and variety of cultures of the region north of
Pokhara make each day's walk a different experience and make the
area the most popular destination in the country. Four favorite
treks, each with minimum of about one week and maximum of three
week treks, to Kali-Gandaki basin include Manang region, Annapurna
range, Jomsom and the Annapurna Sanctuary. Alpine meadows,
moraines, glaciers and breathtaking views of the Annapurna range
abound. The three hundred kilometer Annapurna Circuit combines the
first two areas by crossing high altitude pass, Manang Thorang-La
(5360 meters) and takes up to three weeks to complete.
Dhaulagiri
White Mountain, separated from the Annapurna region by Kali
Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, includes some
fifteen peaks above 7000m. This region, considered to be one of
the most remote places of the Kingdom of Nepal, has abundance of
Himalayan peaks, hidden valleys, high passes and sweeping vistas.
The Trans-Himalayan journey is quite, peaceful and full of
adventure and excitement. Trekking in this area is relatively
strenuous but trekkers willing to spend their holidays amid nature
and natural surroundings full of peace and tranquility choose this
"Off the beaten track" trekking destination.
Manasulu
The main journey here is around Manaslu, reaching north of the
Himalayas and circling the great Manaslu-Himalchuli-Baudha massif.
Since Manaslu is a special area for trekkers and was only
officially opened from 1991 onwards for trekking, it needs special
permits. Three-week complete treks will give you an exciting,
adventurous and once in a lifetime experience.
The Everest Region
The areas around Khumbu is commonly called as the Everest
Region. It is also known as the home of Sherpa people and the
mysterious Yeti. This trek comprises not only the Everest Base
Camp but also Namche Bazar, Lukla, Tyanboche and the whole
Solukhumbu, which are at the lap of looming Mount Everest, the
highest peak in the world and also the mount Ama Dablam . The trek
to Khumbu area is not only famous for trekking and expedition but
also for the Sherpa culture. One can enjoy and learn Sherpa
culture very
closely by visiting this region. The complete trek starts from
Jiri to Lukla. Flying to Lukla is the best option for those with
limited time. Most of the flights depend on weather condition.
However, the helicopter service and chartered flights are also
available on request. The Everest Trek is one of the most
thrilling adventure treks for excitement-seekers. There are
several trekking routes within the Khumbu Region like Kalapatthar,
Gokyo Lake, Everest Base Camp and Syangbochhe trek.
Jomsom to Mustang Trek
This trek starts from Pokhara and takes 150 km to reach Mustang.
The new adventurous trek starts from Jomsom. The land is also
covered with other glittering snow peaks like Nilgiri, Tukche and
Muktinath, the famous shrine of Hindus. The trekking starts from
Jomsom where there is an airstrip.
Mustang is 200 kilometers into the hinterland that constitutes
mainly barren ridges, deep canyons, eroded cliffs and Moraine
valleys. Its landscape is unrivaled for it has a stupendous
wilderness, pristine scenery, snow capped peaks, spectacular 16th
century monasteries and many other unique attractions. The view of
wind swept Kali-Gandaki valley, vast spaces around Kagbeni and
vast ridges that straggle high mountains provide a mind-blowing
experience.
The Langtang - Helambhu
Gosaikunda region is easily accessible from Kathmandu. Each area
in itself is a good choice for those with limited time. It offers
many features that range from culture to adventure. In a week to
ten days, any one can visit one of these areas by crossing high
mountain passes. A three-week trip could cover all the three
areas. The Himalayan views overall are not quite as spectacular as
in the Annapurna or Khumbu region, but they remain unforgettably
beautiful plus the trails are less crowded and the people are
friendly and interesting. The Helambhu-Gosainkunda trek takes one
to Gosainkunda Lake - a sacred site for devotees of Hindu God
Shiva. It is famous for both trekking and pilgrimage.
Dolpo Trek
The Dolpo region is the natural embodiment of high passes,
rare flora and fauna, and sweeping vistas, which is enriched by
the traditional Tibetan cultural heritage. This region, surrounded
by Dhaulagiri and Tibet from south and north, respectively, is
regarded as a blend of natural and cultural phenomena. It was
opened in 1991 for trekking. This region lies on the north side of
Himalayas, it is also a rain shadow area and the climatic
situation of this place is same as that of Mustang. One of the
longest treks in Nepal is Dolpo Trek that takes 34 days to
complete. In this trek, the maximum elevation will be 4,530 m. to
5,115 m. and is one of the most arduous treks of the country.
Kanchanjunga Trek
Literally the Kanchanjunga means crystal clear in
Nepali while geographically the Kanchanjunga mountain is the
second tallest in Nepal and the third tallest in the world after
the Mt. Everest of Nepal and the K2 of Pakistan. The whole
trekking areas in this region stretches through and around Arun
River whose origin dates back to prehistoric period. The Arun
valley is one of the most beautiful regions to trek in Nepal.
Traveling around this part also gives an opportunity to enjoy and
experience the traditional culture of Rai and Limbu, the native
locals of this area. Trekking in this area is an adventure that is
full of enthusiasm, excitement and above all, an unforgettable
life time experience.
Gaurishanker
Gaurishanker Trek is another beautiful trek in Nepal where one can
enjoy the beautiful scenery of majestic Himalayas including
Rolwaling, Gaurishanker, Tashi Laptse, Dorje Lakpa. The trekking
route is full of alpine forests including trees with blooming
rhododendron flowers, the national flower of Nepal, and beautiful
native villages. |