| Trekking
in the Himalaya:
The Federal Democratic Republic 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-November). Even during the monsoon season
(June- August), you can trek in the rain- shadow areas north of the Himalaya
like Mustang, Upper Manang and Dolpo.
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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 Federal
Democratic Republic 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.
Manaslu
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, Tyangboche 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. TheHelambhu-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 TrekLiterally 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. |