The complete travel guide of the Everest Base Camp trek holds useful information such as the difficulty level, type of permits, and documents you need, transportation, accommodation, meals, solo traveler, health, additional treks leading to EBC, and even info about attires and clothing. High Route Adventure is more than happy to answer any other questions you might have, just use the quick inquiry or send us an mail. Bookings are open for the Everest Base Camp trek, don’t hesitate and take part in the world’s most famous trek to the top of the world!

Trip Facts

How Difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek

As many start to wonder how difficult the Everest Base Camp trek is, you’ll be happy to know that this popular trek in Nepal is classified as a moderate trek. For beginner trekkers new to the Himalayas and its intimidating altitudes, the trek to EBC can be a bit difficult or rather strenuous. Especially during the first days, as you’ll need to get used to up and down trails. For veteran trekkers, the Everest Base Camp trek is quite easy to complete, and with two acclimatization days planned, the trek gives you time to rest and take in those incredible views!

Everest Base Camp Trek Map

Visa and Entry Requirements for Nepal

The visa and entry requirements before the COVID-19 outbreak in Nepal were very easy and simple. You could get your visa either from your Nepalese embassy or on arrival in Nepal at the airport’s immigration department. Except for Indian Nationals, who don’t require any type of visa to enter Nepal, the process was straightforward.

On-arrival Visa During Covid-19 Safety Regulations:

The on-arrival visa procedure during COVID-19 safety regulations is somewhat different and stricter in Nepal. This is not only for your safety but also for your fellow travelers and airport staff. The main difference is that you’ll need a recommendation and acceptance letter from the trekking agency that you have booked in order to get the on-arrival visa in Nepal. Not to worry as High Route Adventure starts preparing and will send you these documents after booking! For those who are fully vaccinated no quarantine is required and for those with negative RT-PCR reports a 10 days quarantine needs to be done in Kathmandu. Notify High Route Adventure during your booking so we can make the required arrangements. Please do note that these rules and regulations are set from 29^th June 2021 and are subject to change.

What you’ll need:

1. Recommendation letter from High Route Adventure
2. Valid Passport with min. 6 months validity
3. Visa Fee
4. Medical vaccination report with photo and barcode/ negative RT-PCR report with barcode
5. In case of not vaccinated, you’ll have to book a 10-day quarantine in Kathmandu with a PCR test on the 7^th day and 10^th day.

For more detailed info on traveling to Nepal, we advise you to check out:

https://www.welcomenepal.com/

The official website of the Nepal Tourism Board. Here you can find the latest updates for travelers wishing to visit Nepal during the COVID-19 safety regulations!

On-arrival Visa:

During the high seasons (March-May & October-December) the queues at the airport’s on-arrival visa department can get long. It is still easy to obtain your tourist visa on arrival in Nepal. Providing you have the necessary documents at hand and the visa fee in USD cash. There are three options for on-arrival visas, and all three are a bit cheaper than a tourist visa extension in case you choose to prolong your stay in Nepal. You’ll have also the option between single entry and for the maximum amount of days a multiple entry visa. Single entry means that your visa is only valid for the time you spend within Nepal and until its expiry date. With a multiple-entry visa, you are allowed to re-enter Nepal while using the same visa sticker, as long as the expiration date is not reached. You’ll need a valid passport, 2 passport-size photos, and cash USD.

15 days Single Entry Visa:              30$USD

30 days Single Entry Visa:              50$USD

90 days Multiple Entry Visa:          125$USD

Please also note that the airport has had some significant upgrades and that there are now E-Visa kiosks available where your passport is enough to apply for a tourist visa plus the fee. At the visa department, a money exchange service is also available to acquire USD and Nepalese Rupees. For more information, we do suggest you have a look at: https://www.immigration.gov.np/ the official Immigration Department of Nepal’s website.

What type of Permits are Required for the Everest Base Camp Trek

During the Everest Base Camp trek, you’ll need two types of permits, which will be checked during your second day of the trek at Monjo. Without these two permits, you won’t be able to enter the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. If you book any trek, such as the EBC trek with High Route Adventure all permits and if required T.I.M.S. (Team Information Management System) cards are included within the package. For the EBC trek in Nepal, a T.I.M.S card is not required. You will need;

1. Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
2. Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Transportation During the Everest Base Camp Trek

As with all treks organized by High Route Adventure, Domestic (in-country) transportation is included in the trekking package to Everest Base Camp. The trek has airport transfers and a two-way flight ticket to Lukla, the 38th-highest airport in the world included. If your itinerary includes sightseeing within Kathmandu then that day’s transportation according to the itinerary is also included.

Two-way flight to Lukla:

As mentioned above, the Everest Base Camp trek includes a two-way flight ticket to Lukla. The airport Lukla, situated at 2,860m/9,383ft is ranked as the world’s 38^th highest airport. With its incredible location and short runway, you’re in for an exhilarating flight to Everest! As the flight to Lukla takes place in high altitudes, it is possible that due to bad weather and for safety it can get delayed. There are other options, such as planning some additional days. One of them is to take the flight from Ramechap Manthali airport, a short drive from Kathmandu and mostly used during high seasons. As tickets need to be booked in advance to guarantee availability, we do request to send your passport details during booking.

Ground Transportation:

If you do not include a day sightseeing in Kathmandu during the Everest Base Camp trek, airport transfers will be included as ground transportation. Depending on the size of your booked group, High Route Adventure arranges vehicles to pick up and drop you off at the international airport and domestic airport. Please note that our drivers come on time, and it is your responsibility to be ready to catch your flight.

Accommodation in the City & During the Trek

During the Everest Base Camp trek, you’ll spend the night in two different types of accommodations. They are divided by “city overnights” and “during the trek overnights”. During the overnights in the city, High Route Adventure books between handpicked, comfortable 3-star category hotels on a bed & breakfast plan. During the trekking part of your holiday in Nepal, the accommodations are in the high Himalayas and are called teahouse lodges or guesthouses. Of course completely different than city hotels, these mountain inns really make you feel like you are one with mountains! While simple and traditional these guesthouses have two or three beds per room and although single rooms can be booked they cannot be guaranteed, except in some teahouses for solo female travelers. If you like to book your own accommodation or want a different category of hotel during the city overnights, High Route Adventure can help you adjust the booking, just leave a message during your booking with your requirements.

Meals During the Everest Base Camp Trek

Meals during the Everest Base Camp trek are as important as the trek itself! Expect to enjoy some of Nepal’s most delicious and traditional delicacies. In the city anything is possible from continental to different international cuisines to choose from, it’s your own choice. During the trek to Everest Base Camp, meals change a bit as we go more into rural areas. While most teahouses offer non-vegetarian options, High Route Adventure does recommend not to order them, especially any type of meat items, as preservation methods are high up in the mountains and nobody can guarantee the quality. Instead try out the delicious seasonal vegetables, with rice covered in hot lentil soup and a spicy sauce on the side. Nepalese are expert farmers and almost every household has its own little vegetable garden. This makes the vegetables in the villages of exceptional quality and taste! Trekking packages organized by High Route Adventure, have breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek included in the price. For drinks or extra snacks, you’ll have to manage yourself.

Some Additional Routes to Trek to Everest Base Camp

Besides the standard trekking trail, there are some additional routes that lead to Everest Base Camp. These trekking trails head through the Khumbu region in a circular way. If followed all lead to Everest Base Camp, or at least overlap a part of the standard Everest Base Camp trek. There is also the option of long expeditions or shorter peak climbing that offer some of the best views. Here below High Route Adventures has stippled out two of our favorite additional routes to trek to Everest Base Camp;

Everest Base Camp Gokyo trek via Cho-La Pass:

Considered as one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal to reach EBC is the Everest Base Camp Gokyo trek via Cho-La Pass. This journey with High Route Adventure takes 17 days and includes a visit to Base Camp, a sunrise view from Kala Pathar Hill, the crossing of the Cho-La Mountain Pass (5,367m/17,608ft), exploring around Gokyo Lake, and a short excursion up to Gokyo Ri one of the best viewpoints west of Mt Everest. While the trek is a bit more strenuous than the traditional Everest Base Camp trek, it is definitely worth it as you’ll get to see more of the region and many more highlights!

Everest Base Camp Gokyo trek via Cho-La Pass standard Itinerary:

Don’t hesitate to book this scenic Everest Base Camp Gokyo trek via Cho-La Pass with High Route Adventure! While this itinerary is going in a clockwise direction you can also do this trek in reverse starting from Gokyo. We do recommend following this itinerary of the Everest Base Camp Gokyo trek via Cho-La Pass as it will provide the best experience in terms of views and difficulty.

Island Peak climbing:

If you are planning to trek to Everest Base Camp, why not make a detour and climb Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) as well? High Route Adventure’s Island Peak Climbing trekking package consists of nineteen days and is considered a challenge. While the route follows the classical Everest Base Camp trek, on the way back you’ll make a detour slightly eastwards to Chhukung. A bit further is Island Peak Base Camp. From here pre-climbing training will be held before ascending the summit of Island Peak. As the climb is not technical no advanced climbing techniques are required. However, you’ll need to have built up your stamina and fitness level before undergoing this amazing trek to EBC and the summit of Island Peak.

Short Itinerary of Island Peak Climbing with High Route Adventure:

If you are looking to book Island Peak Climbing as a different and more adventurous way to visit Everest Base Camp, then head on to our trips page and press book now. All climbing safety gear will be provided, and with our expert guides, you are sure to expect an unforgettable Himalayan journey!

Solo Trekking to Everest Base Camp

While it is possible for a solo trek to Everest Base Camp with High Route Adventure, it is recommended to trek at least with another. This will not only reduce your cost but also further your experience during the Everest Base Camp trek. Single trekkers can get their own accommodation at a higher cost. This is also less likely during the high season, as room availability in the teahouses becomes less.

Spending Money During Your Time in Nepal

Every new country you visit has its own typical souvenir shops, restaurants, bars, and other places where you can spend money. Nepal like any other country uses Nepalese Rupees, and while the US Dollar is also used in many tourist places or businesses, having some rupees cash comes always in handy when in Nepal. In bigger cities such as Kathmandu, ATMs are available and can be used to withdraw cash from your home account, just make sure to activate your card for international withdraws. High Route Adventure does recommend using the Nabil Bank ATM as those take the least charge per withdrawal. As every individual has their own spending habits and budget during their vacation we cannot set a fixed number on daily spending. During the trek, however, we do suggest bringing about 30 USD cash per day for additional snacks, drinks, tips, extra facilities, and souvenirs.

Tipping:

Depending on the service it is customary to tip approx. 10% in Nepal. Guides, porters, and drivers provide exceptional services in rough conditions and depend largely on tips as a secondary income. During the trek, there will be several opportunities to tip and you can do this individually, anonymously, or in a group. Do note that tipping is not a must and will never be forced under any circumstances! It is important that you are happy and satisfied with the service provided and then highly appreciated if any tips are made. As a recommendation, we suggest 500-1000 NRS (between 4 and 10 USD) a day as tips for porters to get an idea as to tipping porters or guides in Nepal.

Laundry:

Money Exchange:

Currency valuation in Asia and Nepal changes quite often and to get the latest rates it is best to use the National Bank of Nepal as a reference. Their websites provide a money exchange rate listing that is accurate and can be found at; https://www.nrb.org.np/.

As you will quickly notice upon roaming around Thamel, Kathmandu there are a lot of money exchange agents available, and High Route Adventure can even show you a few upon request. Besides exchanging cash the safest way is also via ATM, and the last ATM during the trek to Everest Base Camp is at Namche Bazaar, so you can always use that one in an emergency.

Health

Your health is of great importance to High Route Adventure during any type of trip or trek. As well as during the Everest Base Camp trek, we do ask that you read and understand the itinerary before making any type of booking. We go to some high altitudes and for those new to Asia, or Nepal there is a different diet than in Western countries. Always make sure to consult with your doctor, describing the itinerary and location before undergoing your trip. As the saying goes; better safe than sorry! During your trek to Everest Base Camp, it is also recommended to bring with you any type of personal prescription-based medication, a small first aid kit, and hand sanitizer. During the Everest Base Camp trek we head into some rural areas where no medical facilities will be available, so do stock up on any type of medication before we head out.

Safety and Security During the Trek:

Trekking while amazing and beautiful in nature is still considered a dangerous activity. During your trek to Everest Base Camp, your security and safety come first place for us! Before we start the trek we hold a detailed trek preparation briefing and explain the safety rules during the trek. We don’t want you to get hurt or be the cause of hurting somebody else. The Everest Base Camp trek is relatively safe and the most dangerous one can get is acute mountain sickness or AMS in short. High Route Adventure does ask to always have a small lock for your luggage and not to bring any valuable jewelry, as those would just hinder your trekking experience. The hotels do offer safety deposit boxes for valuables, but during the trek, you are responsible for your own items.

AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness:

During the Everest Base Camp trek, AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness is no joke! Due to the difference in altitude and oxygen people can suffer from this in harsh cases of deadly infliction. If you follow the itinerary made by High Route Adventure and make sure to inform your trekking guide of any increases in fatigue you should be ok. The Everest Base Camp trek holds two acclimatization days especially to prevent AMS. One day will be spent in Namche Bazaar, the biggest Sherpa village in the area, and another day will be spent at Dingboche. During both acclimatization days, a day hike will be planned to get used to the higher altitudes. Furthermore, near the town of Pheriche is the Himalayan Rescue Association’s health post. Here lectures on how to prevent AMS in the Himalayas are also organized!

Local Attires or Clothing

Those who have traveled to different countries might have noticed that the local attire or clothing is quite different than back home. Nepal is quickly developing and has a lot of influence from Western countries in terms of clothing. In the bigger cities such as Kathmandu, people dress either traditionally, or casually with jeans and printed T-shirts. In the smaller and rural villages, people are still very traditional and we do ask to respect their culture by not wearing too revealing clothes.

With this complete travel guide of the Everest Base Camp trek, you should have ample information about the trek, and what to expect. Embark on a Himalayan journey with High Route Adventure’s Everest Base Camp trek, and explore the Nepalese Himalayas!

The post A Complete Travel Guide of the Everest Base Camp Trek appeared first on High Route Adventure.

In this article, we will provide you with a wealth of valuable tips and insights to enhance your high-altitude walking experience. We understand that planning a trip to the Everest Base Camp requires meticulous preparation, and finding reliable information amidst the sea of online resources can be time-consuming. But fear not! This comprehensive guide, featuring 12 essential tips for a successful trek to Everest Base Camp, is your go-to source. 

1. Choose the Best Seasons

The best seasons for an Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring offers stable weather, mild temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful rhododendron forests in bloom. Autumn provides dry weather, clear visibility, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. Avoid trekking during the monsoon/summer season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and limited visibility. Consider the shoulder seasons of late February to March or late November to December for a quieter experience with slightly colder temperatures. Check weather forecasts and be prepared for unpredictable weather in the Himalayas. Consult local trekking agencies or experienced guides for up-to-date information on trail conditions. 

2. Pack Smartly 

Pack smartly by selecting lightweight items to keep your backpack manageable throughout the trek.  Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, and roll them to save space. Opt for travel-sized toiletries and pack them in a clear, zippered bag. Prioritize necessary documents, electronics, and chargers in a separate compartment. Remember to pack only the necessities and leave non-essential items behind to ensure a more comfortable journey.

3. Acclimatization for Safety 

Acclimatization is crucial during your Everest Base Camp trek. Two essential acclimatization points on the EBC trek are Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Spending extra days at these locations helps your body adjust to the altitude, reducing the chance of altitude-related illnesses. Follow the recommended acclimatization schedule and give your body the time to adapt. It is recommended to take regular rest days to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. Walk at your own pace and avoid rushing. Remember, you are not here to race. Take your time to enjoy the journey and give your body a chance to acclimatize naturally.  

4. Prepare Your Body for the Challenge 

Prepare your body for the challenge of an Everest Base Camp trek by focusing on physical and mental readiness. Engage in regular cardio exercises to build endurance and strengthen leg muscles. Cultivate a positive mindset, set realistic expectations, and develop mental resilience. Practice mindfulness and visualization techniques to stay focused and motivated. A prepared body and strong mental attitude will enhance your EBC trek experience. 

5. Get the Right Gear 

Ensure you have the right gear for a high-altitude trek like Everest Base Camp. Pack moisture-wicking clothing layers, sturdy boots, and a warm jacket. Carry a reliable backpack, a suitable sleeping bag, a headlamp, a water bottle, and trekking poles. Don’t forget a first aid kit, essential medications, sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, and a camera. Choose lightweight and durable gear to maximize comfort and safety on your EBC trek. Also, if you forget to bring some items, you can buy or rent high-quality trekking gear reasonably in Kathmandu. 

6. Nourish your Body and Mind 

Nourishing your body and mind is essential during an Everest Base Camp trek. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. And consume nutritious meals to fuel your physical endurance. Take breaks to rest and recover. Engage in mindfulness practices to cultivate mental well-being. Carry snacks to maintain energy levels throughout the trek. Prioritize self-care to keep your body and mind in optimal conditions for the journey. 

7. Go with an Authorized Tour Operator

Choosing an authorized tour operator is crucial for your EBC trek. Authorized tour operators are registered and regulated, ensuring compliance with safety standards and ethical practices. They provide experienced guides, proper equipment, and reliable logistical support. Authorized operators also have established relationships with local communities, contributing to sustainable tourism and benefitting the local economy. Going with an authorized tour operator lets you have peace of mind, knowing that your trek is being handled by professionals who prioritize your safety and provide a quality experience. 

High Route Adventure is also an authorized travel operator that offers personalized services for a safe, successful, and comfortable Everest Base Camp trek. From your arrival to departure, we ensure a seamless experience, providing expert guides, reliable logistics, and comprehensive support. 

8. Add a Contingency Day at the End of your Trip 

Planning a contingency day at the end of your Everest Base Camp trek is another valuable tip. This extra day is a buffer in case of unexpected delays or changes in the itinerary, such as bad weather or flight cancellations. It provides flexibility and enough time to complete the trek comfortably without rushing. This contingency day acts as a safety net, allowing you to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and avoid potential stress or disappointment. 

9. Embrace Relaxation and Try to Find Tranquility

One important tip for an Everest Base Camp trek is to remember to relax. While the trek can be physically and mentally challenging, finding moments to unwind and rejuvenate is crucial. Take breaks to soak in the breathtaking scenery, meditate, or enjoy the tranquility of nature. Embrace the serenity of the mountains and allow yourself time to rest and recharge. 

With High Route Adventure, you can enjoy a tension-free trek where you don’t have to worry about the minutiae of logistics. Our services are designed to provide you with a seamless experience. 

10. Choose the Perfect Itinerary 

Choosing a suitable itinerary for your Everest Base Camp trek is essential. Consider factors such as the duration of your trek, including acclimatization days, to adjust to the altitude and variations in the trail. Look for itineraries that match your fitness level and allow you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Consulting with experienced trekking agencies or guides can help you select the best itinerary that meets your preferences and ensures a safe and fulfilling journey. 

11. Follow Trekking Guide

Following your trekking guide is vital during an Everest Base Camp trek. Your experienced guide knows the region, trails, and potential risks. They provide valuable information, ensure your safety, and navigate you through challenging sections. Listen to their instructions, and follow their advice regarding pace, rest days, and acclimatization. Trust in their expertise to make informed decisions that enhance your trekking experience. By valuing your trekking guides’ guidance, you can have a smoother and more enjoyable journey to EBC. 

12. Stay Connected with Loved Ones 

Remember to connect with your family and friends during your Everest Base Camp Trek. Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available in Namche Bazaar and Lukla to share your experiences with loved ones. Utilize this opportunity to provide updates, share photos, and stay connected throughout your incredible journey. Keeping in touch with your loved ones keeps them updated and offers support and encouragement, making your EBC trek even more memorable. 

Conclusion

By incorporating all of the above tips for the Everest Base Camp trek, you are already halfway prepared for this remarkable adventure. Each tip has equal importance in ensuring a successful journey. The Everest Base Camp trek is an informative experience. By following these essential tips, you will be fully prepared to embrace the challenges and relish the heavenly moments along the way. Leave no room for suffering; this trek promises an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience. Get ready to make this journey the best trek of your life and create cherished memories amidst the breathtaking Himalayas. 

Begin your Everest Base Camp journey today and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Book your trek with High Route Adventure for a safe and unforgettable adventure. 

FAQs

Can a beginner trek to Everest Base Camp?

Yes, beginners can trek to Everest Base Camp with the right preparation and guidance. Assess your fitness level, acclimatize properly, and choose a gradual ascent itinerary. Seek assistance from experienced trekking operators to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. 

How much do you tip for the Everest Base Camp trek?

Tipping is a personal choice, but it is customary to tip the trekking staff on the EBC trek. A general guideline is to budget around 10-15% of the total trek cost for tipping. Distribute the tip among the trekking crew, including guides and porters. Consider their hard work and dedication when determining the amount. It is best to carry small denomination bills for tipping convenience. 

Is the Everest Base Camp trek risky?

The Everest Base Camp trek has inherent risks due to high altitudes and challenging terrain. Altitude sickness is a concern, but proper acclimatization can mitigate the risk. Weather conditions can change rapidly, leading to potentially hazardous situations. However, the risks can be minimized with careful planning, experienced guides, and following safety protocols. It is crucial to choose a reputable tour operator, adhere to their guidance, and prioritize your safety throughout the trek.

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As water is life, without this valuable gift of nature, nothing can survive and all travelers should be well aware. Nobel Adventure Tour and Travels brings this great topic and subject to help all trekkers, traveling around the Himalayas.

A subject is collected from various sources to blend into one topic, making it easier for trekkers how and why. Water is needful to the body when trekking the Himalayan country like Nepal, the land of the world’s highest mountains.

Nepal with massif Himalayan range where hundreds of streams, rivers, and lakes are formed from the glaciers. The country with the world’s highest volume of fresh water from its natural source makes a country rich in hydropower.

As well as for irrigation to various agricultural fields and terraces from mid-hill, green valley to low-land of the Terai belt. The main source and gift of nature to Nepal are its high Himalayan Mountains, the savior for all living beings.

Every drop of water is precious to nature and for human life to survive on this beautiful planet. Where humans, plants, animals, and birds can live for some days without food; but water is essential at every hour of the day.

The most important than in normal walks of life is while you are outdoors with physical activities like trekking. Whether on sunny days or on cooler days of walking, where trekkers can get dehydrated, losing enough fluids from sweat.

On every step on treks climbing uphill needs more energy and power, where every sip of water will help. From the danger of dehydration which might lead to ill health, the power of water will be an elixir.

5 Safe Ways to Drink Water in the Himalayas

Enjoy safe Drinking Water from the Filling Stations

 While on treks around Nepal Himalayas, there are few regions where one can refill your water bottle for the day. Which is only in Annapurna Himalayas, the facilities provided by ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project). In the future, there might be other popular areas of trekking routes, like Everest, Langtang, and Manaslu. The water filling stations are 100 % safe, at the lowest cost that you buy from the lodge’s restaurants. So far the drinking water stations are available on the way to Annapurna Sanctuary at Chomrong village. As well on the Annapurna Circuit Route near Chame Town, where one can enjoy the facilities of safe drinking water.

 Boiling to Certain Safe Temperatures

Of all the drinking pure clear clean water to drink apart from fresh spring is boiling and cooled water. The boiling water should be boiled to certain temperatures above 100° degree Celsius or 212 Fahrenheit. That kills all the bacteria and makes the water safe for drinking, in some areas of trekking. For around high Khumbu, Langtang, or Mustang region it might be more costly, than filling stations.

But it will be the only and best option for one’s health during the trekking days and for being safe from bugs. On Tea House or Lodge Trekking make sure it is boiled properly and filtered separating the saturation.

Using Disinfecting Measures Like Adding Purifying Tabs or Lodine

Besides the pure form of spring water, is hard to find at present due to the presence of human settlements. Well as grazing of animals, but one can use purification tablets to kill bugs or bacteria? From the waters of the clean springs, running streams, creeks, or brooks. The purifying tablets work only about 60 to 80 % on

In Himalayan waters, as in Nepal, there are two types of water, hard and soft. 

The hard waters are full of iron, magnesium, sodium bicarbonate, and other minerals, which are good for health. But for people used to soft water will be hard to digest, one should be used to it for a week or more. The soft waters are found around the lowland of the Terai belt, which is free from minerals. But the taste of the water is not good up to the mark, can smell and taste pungent. For example, when you wash your hands with soap the lather or foam comes less with hard water.  Whereas with soft water the soap foam easily forms enough to wash your hands or body. 

The other method is using iodine as an option from purifying tablets, it works better than purification pills. But the taste will be different till you are used to it for some days.

Filtration to Make the Water Clear from Sedimentation

The best water method is to have clean and fresh water fresh from the taps, running streams, or creeks and wells. Using a portable filter gadget, available in trekking shops and stores in Kathmandu or at Pokhara. Can bring from your home country to be safe from the product and how it functions. The best ways way of filtration from unwanted sedimentation in the water is to be able for drinking purposes. But the filtration should be good and must be cleaned and washed quite often, after being used.

Leaving in the Sun for a Long Time and Purifying with the Help of UV

The other best method of purifying the water for drinking purposes is leaving the water bottle in the sun. At higher altitudes above 3,000 m / 9,843 feet, the sun is strong with bright UV, Ultra Violet rays. Leaving in the sun can be time-consuming, but it is worth the effort if you have time at one place for an hour or more. So that the drinking water in your bottle is purified by the hot sun with strong Ultra Violet bright rays. 

Annapurna Himalaya Region

At present, there are water filling stations on Annapurna trekking routes, like around Annapurna or Annapurna Circuit. As well as on the way to Annapurna Base Camp and the Sanctuary. Carry at least two water bottles to refill water from the stations where available, which is cheaper than buying from the lodge.

Eco- Responsible Tourism

 We discourage using plastic bottled mineral water unless the plastic is recycled, otherwise, it creates much garbage. As the Himalayas are sensitive, where all should follow the rules of Eco or Responsible Tourism. By making the country free from litter and waste, enjoying safe, and following Eco-Tourism rules and norms.

That leaves nothing behind except for your footprints, Carry the litter and dispose at proper disposal sites.    

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NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association) is the governing body of most trekking peaks of the Nepal Himalayas. The right and appropriate elevation of Island Peak as listed by NMA is as above. All climbers must get permission for peak climbing from NMA, obtain peak permits, and well of garbage deposits. 

This is refundable after collecting the waste and disposing of it at the proper disposal site, handing it to SPPC (Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee); and getting a receipt to claim the garbage deposit at NMA. Island Peak or Imjatse Himal falls in group B on the list of NMA. 

All trekking peaks including Island Peak or Imjatse Himal, have to be accompanied by an expert Climbing Guide Registered with NMA.

Where is the Island Peak?

Island Peak or Imjatse Himal, is located in the upper high valley of Solu-Khumbu district, near Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. Situated Far North Mid-East Nepal Himalayas amidst the beautiful Imjatse Valley. Hence the name Island due to its location and shape sits like an Island amidst Imjatse Valley. 

Imjatse Valley is south of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse Peak The nearest settlement is Chukung and Dingboche. Which is also located on the high route to the Hongu and Hinku valleys via Amphu-Labtsa Pass. It also leads to Baruntse Himal and Makalu areas to Barun Valley in further east direction.

Island Peak Outline Itinerary

If you need more information regarding this trek, you can visit Island Peak Climbing

The flight to Lukla is diverted to Manthali Airport at Ramechap district, approx. 150 k.m. about a 4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu and vice-versa.

The Lukla flight from Ramechap started last year 2021 due to heavy air traffic at Kathmandu-Nepal International Airport. As Lukla is the busiest airport around mountainous destinations in the best seasons of the year. 

Combine Route to Everest Base Camp Trek

Interested adventurer climbers, can combine the itinerary days visiting Everest Base Camp and climbing of high Kalapathar rocky hill. 

Which will be the best exercise for proper acclimatization before the Island Peak climb. The route to Everest base camp is not too far from the last settlement of Chukung and Island Peak. The trek to Everest base camp is at 5,364 m standing beneath the towering peaks of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Everest.

Within a mere distance from massif Khumbu Ice-Fall and glaciers, support good exercise; and getting used to the mountainous terrain of ice, moraine, and glaciers. As well as climb the steep hill to Kalapathar top at 5,644 m / 18, 517 feet high. The Kalapathar Hilltop offers a mind-blowing panorama of surrounding giant peaks with Mt. Everest at a close distance.

After getting good walking exercise on high altitude terrain, then ready for the adrenaline climb to Island Peak summit.

Combine Route to Three Passes Trek

Another best way to combine Island Peak Climb is with Three Passes of Everest.

The perfect walking exercise as well for proper acclimatization, depending upon your holiday duration for the Island Peak climb.

For the Island Peak climb combining the three passes trek, it is better to start from Thame village. Located west of Khumbu and Namche Bazaar, Thame is the least visited area with a 500-year-old Gompa/monastery. Worth a visit to the monastery perched high above Thame village facing grand views of the Kwangde range of peaks with Pachermo. Thame is also en route to Tibet / China via a high Nangpa-La pass close to the route towards Renjo-La.

From Thame at 3,880 m high, a steep climb past the smaller settlement of Marlung to reach Lungden at 4,600 m. From Lungden to Gokyo Valley and its beautiful glacial lakes crossing high Renjo-La at 5,360 m. From the top panoramic views of surrounding high peaks facing Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Mt. Makalu with Mt. Cho-Oyu. A long descent to Gokyo’s main 3rd lake with all good lodges located, spending time at Gokyo walk to Thagnak. Situated at the end of Gokyo Valley at the base of Cho-La pass at 4,750 m high. A steep climb of 3-4 hours to the top of Cho-la at 5,420 m high. 

The pass is enclosed by towering Cholatse, Lobuche, and Nirekha peaks, and from the top a long downhill to Dzongla. A small isolated settlement at 4,850 m with few tea houses and simple lodges. The adventure then leads to Lobuche on the main route of Everest base camp (option to visit Everest base camp, time permitting). 

From Lobuche cross the last high Kongma-La pass at 5,535 m high then reach the end of Imjatse valley. Where Chukung is a small settlement with few lodges situated at a height of 4,730 m high. After crossing all three high passes of Everest few hours’ walk to Island Peak Base Camp for the adventurous climb.

Route to Island Peak & Imjatse Valley

The route to Island Peak and Imjatse Valley is a straightforward and well-defined trail. On leaving the last permanent village of Pangboche and Somare the route of Pheriche and Dingboche or Imjatse valley splits. From the diversion, a gentle short walk heading east and down to a stream to cross a small bridge.

After the bridge an hour’s steep climb to enter Imjatse Valley at Dingboche a large settlement with many nice lodges. From here views of Island Peak the walk follows east on a nice gentle path with short downs and ups.

Spending overnights at Dingboche few hours of scenic pleasant walk reaches Chukung the last settlement around Imjatse Valley. From Chukung 3-4 hours walk on the rocky moraine and glaciated path brings you to Island Peak base camp.

Combine Lobuche Peak Climbing

Combining Lobuche East Peak with Island Peak is another great experience and the best way to enjoy the adventure. Lobuche Peak stands at 6,119 m / 20, 070 feet high, close to its adjoin Lobuche West peak. Located close to the route of Lobuche and Everest base camp trail, but isolated a little further from the main path.

The climb is tough and technical in some sections to the summit of Lobuche East Peak. The grade is TD (Technical Difficulty) as per French and Swiss Alpine Climbing Classification. A straightforward climb with some technical sections to tackle before reaching the top of Lobuche East summit.

After the climb walk towards Pheriche Valley and then climb a high trail to the ridge where Imjatse Valley is located. Facing close views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse the trail follows to Dingboche settlement and heads east to Chukung.

From Chukung, a few hours of a good walk to Island Peak Base Camp for the next day’s climb to the summit of Island Peak.  

What Else is Saying About the Island’s Peak Difficulty?

Trekkers and climbers have different views regarding the difficulty of reaching the summit of Island Peak. The best is to expect the unexpected and follow the guidelines for a safe climb and descent. For some beginners, mountaineering can be a tough struggle, but for expert mountaineers, it will be a practice climb. 

Island Peak or Imjatse Himal at 6,160 m / 20,205 feet. The climbing grade is PD + (Per Difficulty with plus), as per the French / Swiss Alpine Climbing Classification System. A straightforward climb over rocks, moraine, ice, and snow slopes with about 100 m of snow and ice. Reaching a small hanging glacier at 5, 280 m, leading to a wide open gully, and then on a snow-covered glacier.  

Avoiding serac and crevasses climbing northwards over snow-covered scree in the margin between glaciers facing a top ridge. 

From the summit jaw-dropping panorama of Mt. Everest 8,848.86 m, Lhotse 8,501 m, Mt. Ama Dablam 6,856 m. Includes views of Mt. Makalu 8, 463 m, Chamlang, and Baruntse Himal. After an enjoyable and challenging climb descends and leads on the same safe route to base camp.

Best Time to Climb Peak

Nearly all year round, except the wet monsoon time of mid-June to August month. The best time is spring beginning from March till May when days are fine and clear with longer sunlight hours. However, late afternoon till night time and morning is cold can expect snowfall sometimes?

The next best season is autumn/fall starts from September to November.

Most days are crystal clear for views, walks, and climbs, but shorter sun-light hours can be much colder morning and night time. Can expect snowfall sometime during the trek and climb.

Eager people can enjoy the Island Peak climb during the pre-winter time of the Christmas and New Year Holidays. There are very cold temperatures morning, late afternoon, and nighttime, but most days are clear for spectacular views and climbs. If you want to know more details Please Visit “Best Time to Visit Nepal”

Meals & Accommodations

From the start of trekking from Lukla to Lukla, all lodges have good and excellent facilities of accommodations where trekkers can have options from basic, budget, and standard to luxury-class lodges and resorts.

Rooms with attached bath/toilets or common sharing, depending upon the choice are available till Dingboche. Foods are served in a nice warm and large dining room. The foods, according to one choice from the long list of comprehensive food menus.

Most large villages and settlement serves Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner from Continental, Chinese, Indian, Tibetan, or Nepali meals. Includes all types of refreshing hot drinks as well as fresh bakery items in some lodges and restaurants. 

On Island Peak climb stay in spacious two-man tents at camping for some days till the climb is complete. The meals are served from the kitchen tents supported by a cook, kitchen staff, and guides. All meals are hygienic, fresh, and best from Nepali Dal Bhat to Chinese and Indian foods.

Prepare for the Island Peak Expedition

Preparation for Island Peak Expedition, first of all, booking the trip for the best seasons. Collecting all useful and important information and details of Island Peak climb and trekking. Knowing the culture, religion of the region, and climbing difficulty. As well as sending the advance trip payment to the concerned local agencies in Kathmandu. Getting the Nepal Visa through the Embassy and Consulate if not can get on arrival at the airport. Collecting details of clothing list as per season-wise, and equipment required for the climb. 

Staying healthy and fit with sound health, checking with your doctor, and taking advice. After and before booking the trip, practice exercise running, jogging, or any other outdoor exercise to keep yourself trim and physically fit. 

Get the Right Gears

Before leaving for the trip request for trekking and climbing clothing list including equipment required for the climb. Apart from your normal casual wear, down jackets, sleeping bags, and thermal mattresses (inflatable) for camping.

The first thing is should buy good trekking boots, the rest of the climbing gear either buy in your own country? Most climbing equipment, including a down jacket and sleeping bags, can be bought or hired in Kathmandu. Around the Thamel area, there are many trekking and mountaineering shops and stores.

Where one can buy or rent the necessary equipment and clothing in Kathmandu at a reasonable price.

If it’s too much to carry from home due airline’s baggage allowance, you can get it in Kathmandu’s big stores. Offers genuine branded items from trekking, and climbing to normal items.  

Island Peak climbing equipment list:

Plastic Boots a pair
Crampons                                         a pair
Ice Axe                                               one
Harness                                             one
Carabineer or Karabiner                two each
Snow Gaiters                                   a pair
Snow / Sun Glass                            one each
Warm Gloves                                   a pair
Wind Proof Jacket and trousers a set each
Down Jacket                                     one each
Down sleeping bags                       one each with an inner liner
Main Ropes                                      200 m (50 m per person) as per the peak chosen
Snow Bar                                          2 / 4 pieces depending upon group size.
Ski Pole (optional)                           one each

Island Peak Climbing Cost

Climbing Fee structures as per the NMA list for Group B Trekking Peaks are as follows.

Royalty Fee: US $ 350 for 1-4 climbing members.
Royalty Fee: US $ 350 for 5-8 climbing members plus US $ 40 per person.
Royalty Fee: US$ 510 for 9-12 climbing members plus US $ 25 per person.
A maximum of 12 climbers in one team is allowed.

The garbage Deposit for all NMA listed 33 peaks is US $ 250 for one group of a maximum of 12 climbers. Refunds on the Garbage Deposit shall be as per NMA provisions.

Apart from royalty for climbing fees, the cost of trek and climbing is backed by trekking staff, and porters with a climbing guide. The full trip cost comes to US $ 1,700 per person in a group of a minimum of 2-3. 

This is as per the itinerary chosen with 4 overnights in Kathmandu Hotel on B/ B basis. Includes all meals B-L-D and room accommodation on treks from Lukla to Lukla. As well as wages and insurance of staff and climbing guide, national park fee, and domestic airfare. 

Getting there Away

Getting there and away around the high Khumbu region of Everest where Island Peak is located. Where all climbers will enjoy good scenic walks from the start and ending point at Lukla. A lovely scenic high-altitude walk with constant views of towering peaks including Mt. Everest. 

The walk follows through nice Sherpa villages adorned with the traditional culture of Buddhism, with time to visit a monastery. Especially at a beautiful spot in Tengboche with the famous majestic monastery of great religious interest. 

On treks to Island Peak base camp with ample time at Namche Bazaar and in Dingboche with extra days. For a scenic excursion to support acclimatization and explore the best viewpoints.  

Entry Permits and Requirements

Entry permits are not required for climbing trekking peaks after paying Peak Royalty Fees for the area of climbing. But the Sagarmatha National Park entrance fee is required which will be paid by the guide. The park fees will be included in the trip cost as well, the only necessary paper. The required entry or peak permit is your valid passport with a legal visa as per the duration in Nepal.

The peak permits will be the entry permits to Khumbu areas, with national park permit fees.

Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization

Altitude Sickness or AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) are two major types and symptoms. HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) water in the brain and HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) water in the lungs.    

The best treatment for people with AMS or High Altitude Sickness is to drink enough water or any warm fluid. Which is a good prevention, as well as having rest and someone to take care of the victims.

If the symptoms persist with no sign of improvement, the best and safest thing is to take the patient down, where he/she can feel better. 

Some trekkers and mountaineers carry Diamox pills as safety measures or precautions against high-altitude sickness. Diamox is a brand name for Acetazolamide, which can reduce or prevent the symptoms of AMS or High Altitude Sickness and lowers headache, tiredness nausea, and dizziness.

In severe conditions, the patient needs immediate evacuation by the fastest means of transportation. In Nepal and the Khumbu area, Helicopter 

Services are the best options for the fastest emergency evacuation. Bringing the patient to Kathmandu at the best hospitals for treatment.

Trekkers and Mountaineers need to take a slow easy pace on high-altitude climbs having much rest from getting breathless. As well as taking enough fluid, water, soups, or plain tea/lemonade.  

Internet Connectivity

Every village has hydroelectricity and solar, where trekkers can charge their electronic items paying a fee per hour per item charged to the lodge owner. Nearly all main villages as far as Dingboche and Chukung, have an internet connection, but sometimes it gets fast and slow. 

Depending upon the weather and landscapes around deep valleys and gorges internet services could be obstructed. But do not expect much while staying at Island Peak Base Camp for a few days in the total wilderness where internet services are not available till Chukung and Dingboche are reached.

Guide & Staff Arrangements

On mainstream trekking like around the Everest region, one can trek solo as an individual trekker. But it is best to have a good local guide and a porter for safety and to enjoy the walks. As well as joining reliable local trekking agents in Kathmandu accompanied by a government-licensed guide. Having a guide to accompany will make it much more secure when choosing the right overnight stops in lodges. Where travelers can get much information about the culture as well as flora and fauna.

In case of altitude or other sicknesses, the guide will be a great help to bring you to a safe place and to contact the head office in case of an emergency.

But climbing, trekking peaks, or major mountaineering expeditions need to be accompanied by a proper Government-licensed guide.

Travel/Medical Insurance

All trekkers and climbers need to purchase Medical and Travel Insurance. Which is for your safety in case of illness; in this condition arise needs immediate evacuation by any means of quick transportation. The fastest is, using Helicopter services to reach Kathmandu, for further treatment. Where all extra expenses and medical bills are to be borne by oneself and claimed through your concerned Insurance companies. 

Trip Safety

Trip Safety is the priority of all trekking agencies in Nepal, no other companies want their company; branded with a negative impact. 

Every company offers the best and safest holidays, however, all visitors should know traveling around the Himalayas. Especially in high-altitude countries, all should be prepared for any type of situation. Which can happen without prior notice like unfortunate events or accidents. All trekking company guides are well trained and experienced to cope with the situation within their control. 

All Nepalese and trekking companies want visitors to enjoy safe and secure adventure holidays in Nepal. 

Some FAQs(Frequently Asked Questions) About Island Peak

How hard is Climbing Island Peak?

Island Peak is one of the popular trekking peaks in Nepal; attracting hundreds of climbers in every good season of the year. The grade is PD + means Per Difficult with plus, the grade used from the famous French and Swiss Alpine Climbing Classification Systems. A straightforward climb on ice, snow, and rocky moraine with some technical sections to encounter before the summit. 

Where all trekkers and climbers require a good attitude and the best climbing equipment to make the climb safe and successful.

What are the safety measures?

The first safety measure is having an expert veteran guide who have climbed many major mountains and Island peak. The next step is proper planning with enough rest days for acclimatization and practice climbing. Carrying the best climbing needful gear from fixed ropes, ice-screw, and snow-bar.

As well as understanding the nature of the climb and descent, if some get very sick contact the Kathmandu head office for the fastest emergency evacuation using a helicopter service. Where you’re insurance is one of the safety measures to claim most of the expenses incurred on medical grounds.

Mera Peak Versus Island Peak. Which one is More Difficult?

Certainly, Island Peak is more difficult than Mera Peak, Island Peak’s climbing grade is PD + (Per Difficult plus). Whereas Mera Peak is just F (Facial Easy).

Mera Peak is one of the easiest climbs with the least technical effort, one can climb with an ice axe and crampons only. But requires ropes for safe descent on long descents within a snow slope. Island Peak a straightforward climb with some steep climb that requires fixed ropes to the summit as well on descent. 

How do I Charge my Electronic Devices at Island Peak Climbing?

Most lodges up to Chukung the last settlements do have hydroelectricity or solar power to charge electronic devices and items. Where one needs to pay a fee for charging each gadget per hour basis, the price differs from one place to another.

But on the climb at Island Peak Base Camp, you will be away from human settlements and lodges, where electricity is not available.

The only chance is that carrying a portable solar panel can sling on the backpack, catching enough solar power to charge your electronics at the end of the walk reaching the camp.

In Case of Bad Weather if a Flight is Canceled What will be the Alternatives?

In case of bad or unfavorable weather conditions if the flight gets delayed for a long time or might need to cancel. The only alternative is to wait for a few days, till the weather improves or contact the head office in Kathmandu. Where the agencies will try their best to charter the helicopter, which also needs good weather for landing and take-off. 

The only options are to walk down to the nearest road and head for the drive back to Kathmandu or wait for the helicopter service.   

The post Island Peak Expedition: All You Need To Know Before Climbing appeared first on High Route Adventure.

One of the highest trekking peaks of Nepal at 6,461 m /21,190 feet high south of Mt. Everest. Close to Hongu Valley and Baruntse Himal, where one enjoys the arduous climb crossing over high Amphu Labtsa-La pass.

Although regarded as one of the easiest climbs to the summit of Mera Peak. Where trekkers and climbers, require good climbing gear for safe ascent and descent. From the top of Mera Peak, one can take delight in facing the panorama of the world’s highest peaks. Overlooking Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and as far as Kanchenjunga on the eastern horizon. Due to its remote location away from main villages and human settlements, all climbers need to carry camping equipment. As well as food for the whole trek and climb, for Mera Peak climbing a permit needs to be obtained. This will be arranged by your trekking companies in Kathmandu on booking for Mera climb with respective local trekking agencies.

Mera Peak Climbing involves a short flight to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechap Manthali airport.

Where is Mera Peak?

Mera Peak is located east of Khumbu district and south of Mt. Everest around Far North Mid-East Nepal Himalayas where the walk leads North East from Lukla town and its Tenzing & Hillary Airport, beyond Kalo Himal or Naulekh ridge.

Mera Peak Itinerary

Combined Island Peak & Amphu Labtsa-La Pass to Imja Valley

Mera Peak adventure climb can be jointly combined with Island Peak or Imjatse Himal at 6,189 m / 20,305 feet. Where Mera Peak is 6,461 m /21,190 feet, after the climb of Mera Peak, crossing Mera-La pass to Hongu Valley.

The trek leads to Panch Pokhari and climbs over a high Amphu-Labtsa-La Pass 5,845 m / 19,177 feet. Crossing over the highest pass of Nepal Himalayas, then descent towards Imjatse valley for the climb of Island Peak. Return journey on the main trail via Tengboche and Namche Bazaar to Lukla. 

Combines Lobuche Peak climbing

Mera Peak combined with Lobuche Peak Climbing can be done but takes more days. Walking leads to Hongu and Imjatse Valley, after crossing over Amphu-Labtsa-La Pass reaching Chukung and Dingboche settlements.

From Dingboche heading up on the main trail of Everest Base Camp, and before reaching the small settlement of Lobuche. The route diverts from the main popular heading towards a hidden corner to Lobuche East Peak base camp.

From the base camp climb to the top of Lobuche East Peak summit above 6,119 m and 20,075 feet high. Facing views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho-Oyu with Mt. Makalu and close views of Ama Dablam. Includes Cholatse and Taboche and an array of towering snow-capped peaks. Return journey towards Pheriche valley to Namche Bazaar and back at Lukla for flight to Kathmandu.

What else is saying about the Mera Peak Difficulty?

Mera Peak is not a difficult mountain to climb. A grade of F means Facial Easy as per French / Swiss Alpine Climbing Classification Systems. Although less technically and difficult leads to a strenuous steep climb to the summit of Mera Peak. The descent is equally tough with a long drop downhill, and the trek to Mera Peak is quite challenging in snow conditions. It leads to cross over high Naulekh ridges and Zatwar-La Pass to reach Lukla town.

Best Time to Climb Mera Peak

The best time for the Mera Peak climb is spring from March to May. Including autumn/fall times of September to November. Most days are fine and clear for views and pleasant walks, but cold mornings late afternoon till night time.

Chances of snowfall during the trek and climb sometimes, as Himalayan weather can be unpredictable.

Meals and Accommodations

Mera Peak is located around the remote and isolated region of Everest and Khumbu areas. From Lukla onwards, the comfort of lodges is not available, except for a few places like Thagnak. Few lodges of simple and basic to accommodate the trekkers. The foods are simple to have to rely on Nepalese meals of famous Dal and Bhat or noodles. The best is to carry camping gear and food for the whole trip till Lukla.

Preparation For Mera Peak Climbing

Before and after booking the trip for Mera Peak Climb, moderate physical exercise will be an advantage. Preparation is like checking the right shortest route to Kathmandu on respective airlines. Acquiring needful present information about Nepal, and trekking/climbing. Checking the exact departure date for the Mera Peak climb, and knowing how many people are in the group.

Get the Right Gears

Getting ready for Mera Peak Climb, after booking the trip and requesting the right gears to buy and bring for the climb. From personal gear to some climbing equipment like an ice axe, crampons, good trekking, and climbing boots, the carabineer has at least 4 pieces locked and unlocked. Personal medical and First Aid Kit, as well as some nutritional snacks and energy items. Similarly, 4 season sleeping bags and down jackets. The rest of the equipment like ropes and harnesses will be provided by the respective companies.

Mera Peak Climbing Cost (Full board Package/individual)

Mera Peak Climbing Cost depends upon the number of days as per the standard itineraries. From shorter days of two weeks or a maximum of 15-16 days from Lukla to Lukla. Where the trip cost includes hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with arrival and departure transportation. Including domestic airfare Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu, national park, and climbing permit fees.

Normally the trip cost comes to an average of US $ 1,500 per person in the minimum group of 2 to 3 persons. Above 4-8 pax about US $ 1,280 per person, includes all camping facilities with kitchen tents and staff, cook. As well as wages and climbing bonuses and insurance for trekking, staff, porters, and guides.

Getting there and away

Getting into Hinku Valley where Mera Peak is located, taking a swift short flight to Lukla landing at Tenzing & Hillary Airport. Then walking beyond human civilization on leaving Lukla town heading towards Mountain Wilderness reaching the base of Mera Peak. After the climb using the same route back to Lukla for the last overnight in the comfort of a nice lodge.

Entry Permits and Requirements

The cost for Mera Peak climbing varies from different seasons of the year as follows:
Spring: March to May US$ 250 per person.
Autumn / Fall: September to November US$ 250 per person.
Winter Season: December to February US$ 125 per person.
Summer: June to August US$ 70 per person.

Besides Climbing Permits issued by NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association). Includes entry permit for Sagarmatha National Park fees.
The pass costs NRS 1,500 for SAARC nationals, NRS 3,000 for foreigners, and NRS 25 for Nepali citizens.

Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization

Altitude Sickness and acclimatization are a must in all high-altitude treks and climbs around the Himalayas. The altitude sickness is known as AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) which is of two major types. That is Cerebral Edema and Pulmonary Edema, Cerebral Edema is a critical symptom of water in the brain, and Pulmonary Edema is a symptom of water in the lungs. For these symptoms, the patients need immediate evacuation by the fastest means of transportation.

For quick and fast safe procedure is bringing the victims to a lower altitude if possible. Then call for emergency support of Helicopter Service to bring the sick back to Kathmandu at the nearest best hospitals.

On treks and before the climb, the itinerary is designed to have rest days with a certain attitude. For better acclimatization climbing high and resting or sleeping low, is the best way to get acclimatized.

Internet Connectivity

On this trek and climb to Mera Peak, the chances of receiving internet or Wi-Fi are almost nil. After and before Lukla town, the possibilities of modern technology are not available. Including electricity power during the whole trek and climb, the only place could be Thagnak. A place with few tea houses serving as a simple lodge may have electricity run by solar power. The best is to carry a portable solar panel and hang it on top of the backpack to get more sunlight. Then charge your electronic appliances at the camp, the internet connection will be nil throughout the trek. Till you reach Lukla at the end of the trekking.

Guide(S) & Staff Arrangements

The guide for climbing and camping/trekking staff will be arranged by the local respective companies. On booking the climb to Mera Peak, camping, food, and all necessary arrangements will be organized well in advance. Before your arrival in Kathmandu for trek and climb departures including all permits with the best expert climbing guide and staff.

Travel Insurance

Travel and Medical Insurance are important that one must purchase back in your home country. The travel and medical insurance will support some of your trip expenses. When the trip gets delayed and canceled due to natural disasters of landslides, or avalanches may wipe out the trekking trail.
Likewise, political strikes, and flight cancellations due to unfavorable bad weather, are for these unfortunate situations. Where your Travel Insurance will come in handy to claim through your insurance company. Similarly for medical insurance for severe sickness or with AMS, immediate evacuation by Helicopter Service will be required. The bills and extra expenses are to be claimed from your Insurance companies.

Trip Safety

All local trekking companies like Nobel Treks & Expeditions always place the top priority on clients’ and fellow staff and porters’ safety. In all our treks and climbs including Mera Peak Climb. Always providing excellent services whether on tea-house or camping trekking and climbing. Making sure that every client is fit and healthy as well as offering the right information details of the respective trip and adventure.

FAQ’S (Frequently Asked Questions)

How hard and difficult is Mera Peak Climbs?

Mera Peak climb is not as hard and difficult as it sounds due to the high summit than other trekking peaks. The trekking route to Mera Base Camp is quite hard and difficult in the first few days. Crossing over Naulekh or Kalo Himal ridge and Zatwar-La pass to enter Hinku valley. The other tough and hard is a steep strenuous climb to the summit, although non-technical. The descent should be taken care of on steep ice and snow slopes.

What are the safety measures for the Mera Peak Climb?

Safety measures to avoid AMS or altitude sickness walking slowly and steadily, and having few refreshing stops. As well as having a rest day for acclimatization and some practice climbing. The company always carries comprehensive medical and First Aid Kits for minor wounds and sicknesses. Sometimes carries Gamow Bag in case of altitude sickness to make the patient quick recovery.

Mera Peak versus Island Peak, Which one is more difficult?

Mera Peak due to its high summit looks difficult. But one of the easiest mountains to climb technically. Where Island Peak is not as high as Mera Peak, but with some technical sections to encounter to reach the summit of Island Peak. Island Peak is one of the most popular trekking peaks in the Nepal Himalayas.

How do I charge electronic devices on Mera Peak Climb?

For Mera Peak climb it’s only for a few days, being away from electrical power.
From Chukung the last settlement where one charges the electronic device and gadgets. The other possibility is carrying a small portable solar panel that can fit outside the backpack, exposed to the sunlight. Then recharge the electronic appliances in the camp.

In case of bad weather if the flight is postponed or canceled what are the alternatives?

In case of bad and unfavorable weather, if the flight does not operate, the other option is to charter a helicopter. If the bad weather prolongs for more days, sometimes the company has to cancel the trip or reroute to other destinations. In this case, no refund will be entertained, and one can claim the travel insurance.

The post A Complete Travel Guide To Mera Peak Climbing appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Gorakshep – the last final lodge on route Everest Base Camp, is important and necessary information for trekkers and adventurers. Gorakshep at the height of 5,180 m and 16, 994 feet high. Located a mere distance of 6 k.m. ahead of the Expedition Everest Base Camp. 

At the bottom of Mt. Pumori Peak 7, 161 m / 23, 494 feet high and rocky hilltop Kalapathar. The black rocky hill is the name for Kala-Pathar one of the highest view-point for trekkers. Towers at 5,644 m and 18,519 feet offer breathtaking views of surrounding high peaks with Mt. Everest at close distance.

Kalapathar is one of the most famous and popular viewpoints for all trekkers who visit Everest base camp. Most trekker visits the first Everest base camp and climbs to Kalapathar in the next early morning. As the morning provides excellent views of Mt. Everest along with glorious sunrise, reflecting on giant snow-capped peaks.

A strenuous steep climb of a few hours from the lodge at Gorakshep, but worth the struggle. For stunning views as well a good exercise and perfect acclimatization for trekkers and mountaineers.

Gorakshep at one time was the original Everest Expedition Base Camp till the 1970s before it was shifted further east. Probably it will be moved back to its original position in near future.

As the present base camp is on the verge of destruction where glaciers and ice are receding. Due to the mass volume of mountaineering expeditions with hundreds of climbers camping, and the huge effect of global warming. Creating much damage to remorseless fields of ice, glaciers, and pristine environment. 

Everest base camp is the source of various streams and rivers and drinking water for many villages. Which is rapidly getting polluted every season due to the busy activities of mountaineers and trekkers.

Gorakshep is situated on a wide dry glacial field with the sandy ground and icy ponds. Could be an ideal spot for Everest base camp, as it was in the 1950s and 60’. As it were before when Tenzing and Hillary first ascent to Mt. Everest. On May 29th, 1953, the base camp was at Gorakshep, the original and classic base camp.

At present Gorakshep is just a resting spot for an overnight halt before or after visiting Everest Base Camp. As well as the base for Kalapathar rocky hill climb, Gorakshep at present with 3-4 simple good lodges. Provides cozy accommodation with comprehensive food menus with warm dining room, having a fireplace.

Gorakshep also has separate shelters for porters just above the lodges, which can be quite crowded in high seasons. Gorakshep is the stop with the only lodges on route Everest base camp trek. The name Gorakshep in the local Sherpa language means a place of a dead ravine.

Probably in the early days when there were no lodges or shelters, except at Lobuche. The local and trekkers might have encountered a dead crow or ravine at this place and named Gorakshep.      

From Lobuche, a 3-4 hours walk uphill through boulders of rocks and moraine following the trail above Khumbu glacier. To reach Gorakshep for lunch and overnight stop, before heading up to Kalapathar hilltop or towards Everest base camp.

Climate and Best Time to Visit Gorakshep

 Like any other various many treks around the Himalayas Everest base camp and Gorakshep, can be visited all-round the year. Except for monsoon wet times of mid-June to August, spring is the best time to visit Gorakshep on route base camp.

As well autumn/fall season, most days are crystal clear for views and pleasant walks to Everest base camp. The spring season with longer days and sunny most of the time can get overcast late afternoon. Getting cold in the evening, nights, and morning till the sun hits the areas, can get snowfall sometimes. The wind-chill factor adds extra cold to the day temperatures, which can be a much windy afternoon. Autumn/fall is another best time for Everest base camp via Gorakshep, most days are clear with fine weather. But shorter days due to sun-light hours, cold with freezing morning and late afternoon till night time. Can get snowed in sometimes but with a clear bright starry night sky, wind-chill can add extra cold.

For interest people can trek during winter time from December to February, most days are clear for views and walks. Shorter days and freezing temperatures in the morning, late afternoon, and nights. It can get snowfall sometimes, and some of the lodges might be closed for winter at Lobuche and Gorakshep. But enjoyable time with fewer trekkers to encounter during the low winter season.

Hotels, Lodges, and Guest-Houses

Gorakshep is just about a 3-4 hours walk from the last overnight stops at Lobuche, Gorakshep started building Tea-House / Lodge. From the 1990s onwards, at present 3-4 lodges and guest houses exist, the first Himalaya Lodge, Snow-Land, and Pumori Lodge. All these lodges offer nice simple rooms with a large dining hall with a fireplace having a common toilet and bathrooms. No attached toilets or bathrooms, as you can realize how harsh and tough the landscapes are?
Where plumbing and drainage systems can be frozen due to cold morning and night temperatures. It is far better to have a common toilet and bathe, the lodge dining does have electricity run by solar power.

Views and Scenery from Gorakshep

From Gorakshep, one can view a close look at Mt. Pumori, Nuptse, and Changtse with adjoining high peaks. A little higher above Gorakshep on route Kalapathar, with a level and hard grassy field. Where one can enjoy super views of Mt. Everest at close distance, as well as climbing up to Kalapathar top.

Most Helicopter flight lands above Gorakshep to allow passengers excellent views of Mt. Everest and surrounding Peaks.

The same spot where the world climate change conference was held on 4^th December 2009. Which is at 5,250 m / 17, 192 feet high, the best ever closest views of Mt. Everest.

Hike from Gorakshep to Kalapathar and Everest Base Camp.

Hike to Kalapathar

Morning is the best time to climb on top of Kalapathar at 5,644 m and 18,519 feet high. There are two rocky hilltops of Kalapathar the lower is at 5,545 m and 18, 192.26 feet high. The main top is at 5,644 m, a steep climb for half-hour to a hard grassy field. Where views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse can be seen, the climb continues with a steep haul. Total hours of about 2 hours of a steep climb on top Kalapathar, means black rock. Which is withered by snow, wind, and sun, and the afternoon can be very windy. The best and closest view around Khumbu is the Kalapathar Hilltop, as trekkers cannot see Mt. Everest from Base Camp.

Hike to Everest Base Camp

From Gorakshep walk leads east about 6 k.m. distance, starting with easy-moderate walks, past the glacial pond. Where there is a signpost showing the direction to Everest and Pumori base camps, walk leads over boulders above the Khumbu glacier.

The trail follows down and up, then reaches the moraine and glaciers of icy ponds and boulders of ice. Then reaching Everest base camp at the height of 5,364 m or 17, 598 feet high. A dramatic arctic landscape filled with ice and glaciers with close views of Khumbu Ice-Fall. Includes views of Nuptse, Changtse, Lingtrin, and Lola peaks at close distance, the views of Mt. Everest are hidden.

Enjoy the spectacular views at Everest Base Camp, during expedition time the area is flooded with tents. As well as busy activities of the climbers, staff, porters, and yaks loaded with expedition’s provisions and gears.

After 3-4 hours of walk from Gorakshep to Everest base camp, return on the same route to Gorakshep. Taking less than 3 hours to reach Gorakshep for an overnight halt, before heading down to Lukla.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I Get to Gorakshep?

After taking a short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a town with a small airport named Tenzing & Hillary. Start the walk to Phakding and towards Namche Bazaar, and then to the beautiful Tengboche Monastery. As the walk continues staying overnights either in Dingboche or Pheriche, then reaching higher at Lobuche.
Finally, the next morning from Lobuche takes you to Gorakshep after 2-3 hours of a good walk for lunch and overnight.

2. Is there any vegetation in Gorakshep?

From Tengboche onwards tree lines fades for short juniper and rhododendron bushes till Pheriche and Dingboche. Walking up to Gorakshep from Thugla onwards, the vegetation disappears for barren, arid landscapes heading towards the mountainous wilderness. Filled with rocks, moraine of ice, and glaciers all the way to Gorakshep and Everest base camp.

3. Can we find luxury hotels in Gorakshep?

The luxury hotels and comfort found till Lobuche, at Gorakshep the accommodation are simple, having shared bath and toilets.

But provides a comprehensive food menu for your delight and satisfaction, the luxury does not exist. Due to cold and rough, barren terrain landscapes, however, the highlight is to complete your journey successfully.

The post Gorakshep – The Last Lodge on the Route of Everest Base Camp appeared first on High Route Adventure.

The Complete Travel Guide to Mardi Himal Trekking, allows interested travelers to know the location and landscapes of the areas.

Mardi Himal is situated in Nepal North Mid-West around the massive Annapurna Himalayan Mountain range. Close beneath the towering Machhapuchare Himal is the famous Fish Tail peak which is 6,993 m high.

Mardi Himal is listed as a trekking peak at a height of above 5,587 m / 18,330 feet high. From the distance, it appears as the broken ridges of Machhapuchare Himal. But early pioneers and explorers discovered a separate individual peak, close to Machhapuchare Himal.

The area around the high ridges of Mardi Himal is also known as the “Other Sanctuary”. Due to its close location to the actual Annapurna Sanctuary which is west of Mardi Himal. Separated by a Modi River and its deep gorge, at a mere distance of a few hundred meters apart. 

On the trek to Mardi Himal, two main options are taking the southeast route through Kumai and Khorchon villages. Which is hardly used trail due to its narrow steep path, the main and popular route is from Pritam Deurali.

From Deurali onwards where trekkers can find overnight accommodation in a simple mountain tea-house, which serves as a lodge and guest house. 

On the other hidden route, there are no facilities for lodges on leaving the main villages for some days. Where trekkers have to carry camping gear and food that is why the west route is more popular. 

The Main Highlights

• Away from the main trail on the least ventured route, but slowly gaining popularity.
• Enchanting forest of rhododendron of various species from tall trees to a bush.
• The forest is also lined with magnolia, oaks, pines, hemlocks, and fir trees.
• Walking away from main villages into a forested trail and grazing meadows.
• On a high ridge facing impressive views of dramatic landscapes and snow peaks.
• Change of terrain, vegetation, and climate in just a few days of treks to Mardi Himal.
• Exceptional View Points facing an awesome panorama of a high snow mountain range.
• Includes views of the Annapurna range of peaks with Dhaulagiri Himal and Manaslu.
• A short and exciting adventurous walk reaching 4,500 m / 14,850 feet high.
• The final point of the trekking to Mardi Himal scenic View-Point high ridge.
• Mardi Himal with an alternative route from the start to the end of trekking.
• Starting from the main trail of Deurali and then downhill on different trails.
• Mardi Himal Trekking close to towering Machhapuchare Himal, the Fish Tail peak.
• In spring the hills are alive with wildflowers in bloom, especially rhododendron. 

How to Reach Mardi Himal Base Camp?

There are two main options on the least ventured route from Kumai and Khorchon village close to Lwang village. The main popular and the widely used route is from Pritam Deurali Hill, a small place with few tea houses. 

Where one can drive to Dhampus village and then walk towards Potana and Deurali on the main trail. From Deurali leaving the main route, heading north to Mardi Himal base camp. The other options drive to Kande village, located on the roadside of Pokhara and Baglung Highway. From Kande farm village climb to Australian Camp or Thulo-Kharka. Then down on the main trail of Dhampus to Potana and then uphill to Deurali Hilltop.

Trekkers don’t be fooled by the itinerary days that most local trekking companies mention at Mardi Himal Base Camp. It is quite misleading, actually reaches High View-Point at 4,500 m, from the last lodge at High Camp.

From the View Point with the last tea-house, the base camp of Mardi Himal is a further 2 hours walk. The walk leads on narrow high ridges with big drops, in snow conditions, it is not possible, a reach challenges.

The Best Season For Mardi Himal Trekking 

The main best seasons are spring and autumn/fall. Spring begins from March to May, one of the lively seasons of time with wildflowers in full bloom.

Especially the rhododendron of various species and colors from tall trees to dwarf rhododendron called azalea. Days are much warmer with longer sunlight hours, however, mornings and nights are cold above 1500 m high.

Chances of rain and snow sometimes, especially during late afternoon time. The next best time is autumn/fall starts from September to November month.

One of the finest seasons for trekking around the Himalayas and Mardi Himal, days are fine with crystal clear blue sky. However, days are short due to sunlight hours much colder morning and late afternoon till night time. Possible snowfall sometimes on the highest altitude above 2,500 m high but still the best time of the year.

Food & Accommodation 

Mardi Himal is not as busy as other popular main trekking trails of the Annapurna region. From Dhampus, Australian Camp, and Potana onwards the lodge accommodation is simple and basic.

But with neat clean tidy small rooms with common toilets and bathrooms. Where one needs to pay for using a hot shower to bathe on route to Mardi Himal. The foods are simple with limited choices from breakfast, lunch to dinner. But clean and hygienic meals are served from a few continentals dishes, and Indian, Chinese and Nepali foods are available.

Served in a nice large dining room with a fireplace to keep the dining warm and cozy from the cold.

Mardi Himal Trekking Grade

The grade of Mardi Himal Trekking starts with a moderate climb uphill for short hours and then gets adventurous. Due to the gain in Altitude from Deurali onwards, so the grade is from Moderate to Adventurous walks.

Trekking Permits & Conservation Fees

Trekking around Annapurna Himalayas and Mardi Himal requires a permit called TIMS (Trekking Information Management Systems). 

Includes ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Projects) entry fees, the checking point is from the village of Potana. After walking from Dhampus or Australian Camp on route Deurali, the turning point to Mardi Himal.

The TIMS permits are issued by TAAN (Trekking Agent Association of Nepal). The local trekking companies will obtain the applicable permits. On booking the trip to Mardi Himal beforehand or on arrival at Kathmandu.

Solo/FIT (Free Individual Trekkers) Possible in Mardi Himal Trek

It is possible to trek as an individual or solo on Mardi Himal Trekking. But needs to obtain the applicable required permits. 

But it is always safe and best to trek in groups with a reliable companion or guides and porters. As this trek leads to pure mountain wilderness misfortunate things can happen or accidents. If one gets sick, there will be no one to take care of you.

This is why always best and safe to trek with a guide and good companion. Some trails in the forest can be misleading also. Can take the wrong way instead of walking on the right path.

Electricity & Internet Facilities on Mardi Himal Trek

After Dhampus, Australian Camp, and Potana villages, there is no hydropower for electricity. Most lodges on route Mardi Himal after Pritam Deurali do have their solar power to facilitate the trekkers. Where one can charge their electronic items and gadget, paying a fee for each item per hour. 

As for the Internet, there are no lines for Wifi one can buy a local SIM card with full data-based. The Wifi and internet connection does not exist in the main villages of Dhampus and Potana. Until you reach Siding or Lwang village down below on the way to Pokhara.

Trekking With Guide & Porter

Guides and porters are the backbones of trekking around Nepal Himalayas, most important to have a guide and porter. For an enjoyable adventure, a holiday is hiring a trekking guide and a porter. Not only for one benefit but also contributing to the local economy by providing jobs for hundreds of guides and porters. 

Booking with local trekking agents which is included the service of a guide and porters, depending upon trip cost. The licensing guide is approved by Tourism Department, where porters need to carry limited weight. 

For Solo trekkers good to have a guide and porter, or just a guide cum porter to save the budget. The guide and porters need to be paid daily wages, accommodation, and meals and also must be medically insured. 

How Are The Drinking Water & Hot Shower as well as Toilet Facilities?

Mineral water in a plastic bottle is available throughout the trek in every lodge restaurant and shop. The price differs as you reach higher, the cheapest way is to buy boiled filtered clean drinking water. Available in every overnight lodge and on lunch stops, best as being a responsible trekker and for eco-trekking.

As bottled water creates more garbage, if it is not recycled, the best is to carry a good water bottle. Where you can refill in every lodge that you stay on paying some fees for the clean safe drinking water.

Pre-Trekking Preparation

One of the most important parts of the trekking adventure around Nepal Himalayas, as well for Mardi Himal Trekking.

Depending upon as ex Kathmandu / Pokhara or booking from overseas, for pre-trekking preparation. The first step is booking the trip as per your holiday duration in Nepal and as well obtaining enough information. 

Around the Southern hills of Annapurna Himalaya at Mardi Himal base camp.

Next step health certificate against Covid-19 or any other virus where your local company will update you regarding the matter. 

The rest carry personal clothing and trekking gear as per the list provided by the local trekking agencies. Includes Travel and Medical Insurance which is important on trekking around Nepal Himalayas.  

Standard Itinerary

The standard itinerary is a guideline for day-to-day details of the treks while you are in Nepal. The standard itinerary should fit with time and holidays in Nepal and for the Mardi Himal Trekking.

The standard Itinerary should mention as follows, can differ from one company to another. But as an example of a standard Itinerary.

Short Trip Profile

Outline Itinerary

Do you need more detail please visit the Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Insurance For Mardi Himal

Travel & Medical Insurance is obligatory when traveling around remote high-altitude Himalayan destinations like Mardi Himal Trekking. 

The Travel Insurance in case of bad unfavorable weather conditions, where trekking route might be diverted to other safe destinations. As well as if the trek is disturbed by political strikes and road conditions. 

Which can happen in any part of the world, with a sudden change of government rules. In this type of situation, the local companies will be beyond their control and have to accept, whatever circumstance arises. These types of situations if happen can claim through your travel insurance for reimbursement.

Similarly for Medical Insurance in cases of sudden illness like altitude sickness or personal illness. Where one might need immediate evacuation or rescue to the nearest hospital like in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Using the fastest means of transportation like Helicopter Service. This is when your Medical Insurance comes in, to cover your extra expenses incurred.   

Guided Treks vs An Independent Trekkers

Guided trekking is the best and safe way of traveling around the Himalayas, especially on off from the beaten trails. Like in Mardi Himal trekking or remote isolated pocket of Nepal Himalayas. The guide can be the best companion for many good reasons, including safety purposes as well to gain knowledge and information. As well as being sick or getting into sudden accidents, where a guide will be you’re only help and support.

Traveling as an independent trekker can be good to save one budget and trekking best low expenses. But you will be missing many good things knowing the local culture and custom, as well flora and fauna. 

Some trail directions can be misleading, and you can be on the wrong trails. Instead of walking on the right path to designated overnight stops.

 As well stopping at the right place for lunch and overnight halts, with a guide, will be much easier. The guide knows the best of the area as well as lodges on route trekking.

Mardi Himal Trek Cost

The trip cost for Mardi Himal Trek will be pre-informed upon booking the trip. As per the duration of trekking days, depending upon group size and using a standard of hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 

The cost of the trip package entirely depends on what’s included and excluded from transportation by overland to Pokhara or by air.

Normally trip package for treks of a maximum of 8 days on Mardi Himal comes around approx. US$ 650 per person. Includes local transport to and from Pokhara, trekking and conservation fees, wages, and insurance for guides and porters.

As well as meals and transportation allowance from Pokhara to Pokhara 

The above trek costs package on minimum 2-3 people. The trip cost can get lower according to a group size of more than 4-6 people or higher.

The trip cost does not include fare from Kathmandu or hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and at Pokhara. Depends upon the options of hotel standards from budget to standard or deluxe star hotels.

Mardi Hamal Trek Packing List

Personal Trekking Gear

Important and necessary to carry a small medical kit for your personal use, as recommended and prescribed by your doctors. As well as mentioning your medical history.

Equipment & Clothing 

Comfortable boots and trainers /sports shoes, clothing for strong hot sun on lower foothills. As well for freezing temperatures at night around higher areas, Shorts, skirts, or lightweight trousers (for ladies). Includes T-shirt, long-sleeved cotton shirts, and sun hat. 

During the evening and the higher altitudes, warm clothing will be needed.  

Fiber Pile Jackets: Shorts or Skirts (for ladies): 

Light Cotton Trousers: for men and ladies. 

Breeches / Track Suit / Ultra Fleece Trousers: for both females and males.

Duvet / Down Jackets: (Down feathers or synthetic (required in autumn/winter 

and early springtime) 

Wool Balaclava, Wool Mitts: (required in autumn/winter and early springtime) Water-Proofs: Jacket and trousers

Sun Hats                   

Scarf: Silk/Nylon, useful for keeping the sun off the back of your neck.

Sunglasses / Goggles: Essential to get a pair that cuts out 100% UV rays

Sunscreen Cream: High protection factor 20 or high altitude glacier cream due 

to thin air, the U/V is stronger in the sun.

Lip Slave/ Labisan: Protection for the lips with a sunscreen

Water Bottle: A liter metal bottle to keep warm while at night time.

Toilet Items

Head Torches: Pretzel (recommended) -spare batteries and bulbs.

Small Knife: Swiss army style – has many uses

Note Book / Diary/ Pens

Small Padlock: Useful for locking your kit/duffel bag

Money Belts:

OPTIONAL 

Camera Gear and Walking Sticks / Poles: Useful for crossing rivers and in snow and ice areas.

Most of these items can be bought or hired in Kathmandu on daily basis at a reasonable price. Which can save from weight limits on international and domestic flights.

How to Choose a Reliable Trekking Operator For Mardi Himal Trek?

After surfing through several websites, and choosing the perfect trekking operator with excellent background. As well the company should be established for more than decades and running successful trips.

The local operator with expert veteran guides and strong healthy porters and staff. Lastly, the trip price should be reasonable as well as providing the services.

Trekking Operator, who can provide enough information and details of the trek chosen.  

The company with long decades of experience running successful trips. 

As well should be approved and Regisrated by the Government of Nepal Tourism Department. Associated member of TAAN, NMA, and any other none or Semi-Government Organization, related to Responsible Tourism and Eco-Trekking.  

AMS(Acute Mountain Sickness) on Mardi Himal Trek?

On Mardi Himal Trek, trekkers hardly catch the symptoms of AMS or Altitude Sickness. As this trek reaches a maximum height of 4,500 m, where altitude gains at a slow pace. Trekkers get acclimatized during daily walks and stay overnights at certain heights. It is different from other high-altitude trekking adventures.

On Mardi Himal Trek, walking slowly and gradually will be best for acclimatization very few trekkers get a slight headache. But not with a serious problem, in case of altitude sickness, one can head downhill to a safe height easily.   

The post A Complete Travel Guide to Mardi Himal Trekking appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Mountain Passes of Nepal is an adventure that takes you between the world’s highest peaks, facing breathtaking views. A country of natural wonders capturing the world’s 8th highest peaks with countless above 6,000 m and 7,000 meters mountain ranges. The world’s tallest and most massive mountain range is concentrated within Nepal, which makes it one of the most sought countries for adventure.

An exciting country of highlands and scenic valleys, enclosed by an array of snowy peaks. One can enjoy traversing from one beautiful area to another crossing high ridges above 4,000 m to 5,000 meters passes.

The Mountain passes of Nepal and in Himalayan countries are known as ‘La’ a respectable name addressed to high people. Such as Pa-La, and Ama-La (Great Father and Mother), similar to the high ridges in-between two zones or areas bounded by a pass.

Which is known as La, the abode of God and Goddesses or holy spirits, in respect to adding the La title. For instance, the famous passes of Thorang-La, Cho-La, Kongma-La, Larke-La, and Mesokanto-La, all passes are adorned with Buddhist prayer flags. Paying respect to the almighty and mountain spirits, where some passes have prayer monuments of Stupa or a pile of rocks.  Nepal with more than hundreds of high passes, which one needs to traverse to reach from one valley to another.

For interested trekkers, and adventurers we have lined with some of the famous, popular high-altitude passes for trekking.

Around Everest & Rolwaling Region

Cho-La Pass, Kongma-La Pass, Renjo-La Pass, Amphu Labtsa-La Pass, Salpa, and Lamjura-La Passes with Tashi Labtsa-La Pass.

Cho-La or Tsho-La Pass

Cho-La spelled and pronounced as Tsho-La, is a pass that forms a boundary of the Everest Base Camp route and Gokyo Valley. Which is at 5,420 m / 17, 782 feet high, the pass connects Thagnak 4,700 m and Dzongla small settlements. Trekkers can cross Cho-La pass after visiting scenic Gokyo Valley and the lake then head towards Everest base camp. 

The other alternative is visiting the first Everest base camp and Kalapathar Hill and then traversing over Cho-La to Gokyo Valley.  A popular pass Cho-La, for an adventure that involves crossing three high passes of the Khumbu and Everest region.

Kongma-La Pass

Kongma-La pass at 5, 540 m/18, 176 feet high. Located on route Lobuche and Everest base camp from Dingboche and Imjatse Valley. 

Kongma-La Pass, especially crossed on Three Passes of Everest either doing it first or at the end of an adventure. A well-hidden pass, hardly ventured by a few trekkers on joining Everest Three High Passes trekking.

Renjo-La Pass

Renjo-La Pass at 5,360 m /17, 585 feet high, falls within Three High Passes of Everest Trekking. Either crossing in the first or at the end after crossing the first and second Kongma-la and Cho-La Passes. Renjo-La stands high between scenic Gokyo and Thame Valleys and offers grand views of Gokyo Valley and the emerald blue lakes. Includes views of the world’s four highest peaks Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho-Oyu with Ngozumpa the largest glaciers in Nepal.

Amphu Labtsa-La Pass

Amphu Labtsa Pass, the highest pass at 5,845 m / 19, 176 feet of all trekking adventures. Located within Khumbu and Everest region, forms a boundary between the Imjatse and Honku valleys of Panch Pokhari / Five Lakes.

The high Amphu Labtsa-La Pass is normally traversed and crossed coming from Makalu and Barun valley or for the Mera Peak climb. One of the few passes seldom ventured by normal and main flow of trekkers and adventurers. 

Amphu Labtsa-La Pass either crossed after flying into Lukla and then heading towards Hinku Valley for the Mera Peak climb. Options are either heading towards Imjatse Valley and climbing Island Peak on crossing Amphu Labtsa-La or saving it for the end.

Salpa-La Pass

Salpa-La Pass is a moderate-high pass at 3,800 m or 12,467 feet high, located in between Solu-Khumbu and Bhojpur districts. The pass is seldom used by trekkers after walking from Arun Valley towards Khumbu and Everest areas.

Salpa-La Pass marked with a Buddhist monument called Chorten, offers views of the Khumbu Himal and peaks of the Makalu area. 

Lamjura-La Pass

Lamjura-La Pass another smaller high ridge at 3,500 m / 11,483 feet, connects the trail of Jiri to the Solu-Khumbu areas. A lovely spot amidst a forest of rhododendron and pine trees, where planes fly overhead to Lukla from Kathmandu. Lamjura-La Pass is located on the old classic route to Everest base camp and Pikey Peak trek following the footpath of legendary mountaineers Tenzing and Hillary.

Tashi Labtsa-La Pass

Tashi Labtsa-La is a high and tough pass that obstructs the boundary of the beautiful Rolwaling Valley and Khumbu / Everest areas. 

Tashi Labtsa-La, situated at 5,400 m / 17, 716 feet high close to the base of Pachermo Peak 6,187 m. The pass is seldom frequented by a few groups of trekkers other than climbers to Pachermo Peak. The adventure begins by driving from Kathmandu and then walking into a high and beautiful Rolwaling valley on leaving the last Bedding village. Then heading towards the complete mountain wilderness of ice and snow and the glacial Lake of Tsho Rolpa.

A technical climb using supports of fixed ropes to the top of Tashi Labtsa-La Pass, facing a vista of surrounding peaks. From the pass, long descent towards Khumbu at Thame village and onwards to Namche Bazaar and Lukla.

Annapurna Himalaya Region

Thorang-La Pass, Kang-La Pass and Meso-Kanto La Pass.

Thorang-La Pass

One of the most famous of all passes is Thorang-La, due to the popular and most scenic Annapurna Circuit trekking. The trek listed as the world’s top ten adventure destination involves traversing over Thorang-La Pass reaching Mustang from the Manang areas. Thorang-La is situated at 5,416 m / 17, 769 feet high in between Yakawa Kang or Thorang Peak with Khatung Kang. 

The pass is festooned with thousands of Buddhist prayer flags and rock cairns as a marker. Stands a board with the name of the pass and heights, facing the outmost panorama of surrounding giant peaks. 

A scenic traverse from Manang Valley to enter beautiful areas of the Mustang district at holy Muktinath and Jomsom town.  

Kang-La Pass

Kang-La is a scenic pass at 5,306 m / 17, 408 feet, located within the upper side of Manang Valley and Nar-Phu. Crossing Kang-La from Nar- Phu or vice versa, where special permits are required as Nar and Phu fall within the restricted area.

From the pass overlooking grand views of Annapurna, Damodar, and Chulu’s peaks as you enter the Manang and Annapurna circuit route. you just need to follow Nar- Phu Valley trek to get to Kang-la Pass.

Meso-Kanto La Pass

Meso-Kanto La Pass is less ventured due to its remote location, an adventure walking from Tilicho Lake to Jomsom. An exciting trek from the mainstream of scenic Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake through Manang village, then reaching the world’s highest Tilicho Lake. Which is at a height of 4,919 m, spending time around the beautiful lake, considered holy.

The walk leads to pure mountain wilderness in between the high peaks of Tilicho, Nilgiris, and the southern mountain range of Thorang-La Pass. 

Crossing Meso-Kanto La Pass at 5,100 m / 16, 732 feet high, requires camping gear and food for a few days. Until Jomsom town is reached on leaving Tilicho Lake Base Camp, then back into the comfort of nice lodges. 

Upper Mustang and Dhaulagiri Region

Teri-La Pass, French Pass, and Thapa-Dhampus Pass.

Teri-La Pass

Teri-La at 5,595 m / 18, 356 feet, connects the route of Manang upper valley of Nar-Phu with Upper Mustang. Least trekked and ventured Teri-La Pass due to its remote location and isolation, where camping equipment and food are required to carry. One of the greatest and most scenic passes of the Himalayas, it will be a great exploration rather than a normal trekking adventure. 

Located north of Kang-La and close to Damodar and Bhrikuti Himal range of the Upper Mustang region. Traverse from Nar-Phu to Upper Mustang or one can do it vice-versa after visiting the former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang.  

French Pass

French Pass is located in between the district of Mygdi and Mustang and is quite close to the Dolpo area. French Pass at 5, 360 m / 18, 192 feet, situated in between Dhaulagiri Base Camp and Hidden Valley. A scenic top-facing grand views of Mt. Dhaulagiri North-West Face, Tukuche, and an array of Dhaulagiri range of peaks. The pass is crossed on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, which normally starts from the Mygdi areas towards the Kaligandaki River valley of the Mustang district. One of the toughest treks around the Himalayas, walking for a few days on the ice, and glaciers till Hidden Valley crosses French Pass. 

An exciting adventure amidst mountain wilderness for a week till lovely Marpha village is reached at the end of trekking.

Thapa or Dhampus Pass

Thapa Pass also called Dhampus Pass at above 5, 250 m/ 17, 520 feet. The pass is traversed after crossing French Pass to Hidden Valley via Dhaulagiri Base Camp or can be done vice versa. From the pass stunning views of Thapa / Dhampus peak, and the Dhaulagiri Himal range with Annapurna and Nilgiris Himalayan peaks. Thapa or Dhampus Pass involves crossing on the adventurous Dhaulagiri Circuit trekking just a day behind after French Pass. Eventually leads downhill to Kaligandaki River within the Mustang district at Marpha village and Jomsom town on the main trekking trail. 

Langtang & Manaslu Region

Ganja-La, Laurabinaya or Gosainkund-La Pass and Tilman Col, with Larke-La Pass.

Ganja-La Pass

Ganja-La Pass, located south of Langtang Himal range the route connect with Langtang Rasuwa district to Helambu areas. One of the technical high pass at 5,122 m / 16,800 feet high, close to adjoining Naya-Kanga peak or Ganja-Chuli. 

Ganja-La is normally crossed after visiting the scenic Langtang valley at Kyanjin, with a rest day for acclimatization before heading higher.

The pass is well hidden from sun-lights with an icy trail to negotiate, where main ropes are required for a safe descent. Reaching the bottom at Kelsang 4,250 m, and then walking to the main village of Helambu at Tarke-Gyang. 

Laurabinaya / Gosiankund-La Pass

Laurabinaya or Gosainkund-La Pass is one of the famous and popular routes and passes around the Langtang Himal range of Rasuwa district. Gosainkund glacial pond is regarded as sacred and holiest of all holy sites around the Himalayas range. Laurabinaya / Gosainkund-La Pass at 4,610 m / 15,120 feet is the main religious hub for Hindu and some Buddhist followers.

Laurabinaya / Gosainkund-La Pass can be reached from three various routes, straight from Dhunche town. As well as trekking around Langtang Valley and then heading towards Gosainkund via Sing Gompa, and then crossing Laurabinaya / Gosainkund-La Pass. After the pass towards Helambu or back to Kathmandu, the other alternative is to walk anti-clockwise direction to Gosainkunda. During the religious festival of ‘Jani Purnima’ in the full moon time of August as per the Hindu calendar filled with pilgrims. Takes a holy dip and bathes on the pond, the belief is it relinquishes the sin of a hundred lifetime. 

Tilman Col

Tilman Col is another high pass around the Langtang Himal range, hardly frequented once in a year. The Tilman Col is named after a famous British explorer and adventurer Bill Tilman, who pioneered the route in the 1950s.

In search of a new passage and route to Tibet, situated in the mountainous wilderness eastern range of Langtang Himal. Which is close to Langshisa Peak the traverse takes you towards Tin and Panch Pokhari (3 and 5 pounds). 

The crossing of Tilman Col can be done from both directions trekking to Langtang Valley and then over the pass. Some trekkers use the other sides from Panch Pokhari near the Jugal Himal range of Sindupalanchok district reaching the Rasuwa area. After an exciting traverse over Tilman Col at 5,320 m / 17, 454 feet high.

Larke-La Pass

One of the popular trekking adventures in Nepal Himalaya is Manaslu Circuit, which involves crossing a high scenic Larke-La Pass. 

The pass at 5,106 m / 16, 752 feet, forms a boundary of Manaslu Valley, Gorkha, and Manang districts. Manaslu Circuit has been open for outside visitors since 1991 but remains a restricted region, where trekkers need special permits.

The Manaslu Circuit, trekking around the world’s 8th highest Mt. Manaslu at 8, 163 m / 26, 781 feet high. A scenic and cultural trek with an adventure over the high Larke-La pass, then ending the walk at Dharapani in Manang. 

Far Eastern Himalaya Kanchenjunga and Makalu Region

Selele-La Pass, Mirgin-La Pass, Lumba-Sumba-La and Sherpani Col.

Selele-Mirgin / Tamo-La and Tseram-La Passes

Selele-Mirgin or Tamo-La and Tseram-La are three passes to cross in a day on Kanchenjunga trekking. After visiting both North and South Base Camps, the only trek where one can enjoy trekking around two base camps. 

Mt. Kanchenjunga, located in Nepal’s Far Eastern Himalayas, is the world’s 3^rd highest peak at 8, 856 m / 28, 169 feet.

The passes Selele-Mirgin or Tamo-La and Tseram-La, are closely adjoined at the height of 4,250 m to below 3,870 m. The adventure takes you to traverse all three passes in one long day’s climb and descent within a lovely forested trail.

The pass offers exciting views of Kanchenjunga massive with Talung and Kabru peaks, as far as Mt. Makalu. The treks with both options visit the first south base camp or the north base camp at Lhonak and Pangpema.

One of the longest trekking with more than three weeks, in the perfect wilderness from lush vegetation to a barren arctic zone.

Lumba- Sumba La Pass

The Lumba-Sumba-La Pass is at 5,160 m / 16, 929 feet, one of the most remote regions of the Eastern Himalayas. Located North of Mt. Kanchenjunga, which is en route to the Tibet border of Walanchung-Gola a mountain village in the sheer wilderness. Lumba-Sumba La is also the starting point of the Great Himalayan Trekking trail, an adventure from the Far East to Western Nepal.

The trekking region around Walanchung-Gola involves crossing Lumba-Sumba-La Pass towards the Makalu trail and at the low warm Arun Valley area. 

Sherpani Col

The Sherpani Col, the highest pass around the Himalayas, a traverse from Makalu and Barun Valley to cross over Sherpani Col. The high pass of Sherpani and West Col leads to Honku Valley and then over Amphu Labtsa to the Everest region. 

This is an extremely adventurous trek and quite challenging in snow conditions, however, it is slowly gaining more popularity among veteran trekkers and adventurers.   

Sherpani Col is a well-hidden pass North West of Mt. Makalu and close to Baruntse Himal. The high pass of Sherpani Col at 6,135 m / 20, 128 feet, the climb starts from Makalu High Camp. Spending overnights in tented camp around a moraine of ice, rocks, and snow for some days till the treks reach Chukung. A small settlement around high Khumbu of Everest area and then easy walk downhill on main trails to Lukla.

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For visitors to capture most of Nepal’s beautiful landscapes and high Himalayan range from the air, take a Mountain Flight.

Everest Mountain Flight

Everest Mountain Flight is one of the most popular, and exciting ways to view the world’s highest peaks in a short time. In Kathmandu, during the best seasons of the year, Everest Mountain Flight runs every early morning till mid-day.

An opportunity for visitors with limited time in Nepal, and dreams of seeing Mt. Everest. The only fastest way is to book for Everest Mountain Flight for an hour or less scenic flight. Where all passengers get the comfort of a window seat to view the high Himalayan peaks with Mt. Everest.

The aircraft flies both ways so that all can have the chance to get a wonderful panorama of the Himalayan Mountain range. Includes grand glorious views of Mt. Everest at its closest distance to other world’s highest peaks. 

Annapurna Mountain Flight

The Annapurna Mountain Flight operates from the beautiful city airport of Pokhara, located on the laps of the Annapurna Himalayas.

From Pokhara, the closest mountain range is Annapurna Himalaya, a mere air distance of 37 k.m. towards the North direction. A flight of less than an hour covers views of the massive range of the Annapurna Himalayas group of peaks. 

Includes views of Lamjung Himal and Manaslu Himal towards the east with Mt. Dhaulagiri in the far west. As well as dramatic and beautiful landscapes of Mid-West Nepal, rolling green hills and verdant valleys dotted with farm villages.

The Major Attraction Joining in for Mountain Flights

The major attraction of joining Mountain flights, all passengers receive the following facilities and benefits.

Guaranteed Window Seats

Soon as you step in the big aircraft either Jetstream or Turbo Engine with 60 to 70 seated airplanes. The seating arrangement is allocated as per the boarding pass on flight booking by oneself or through travel agents. Where all guest gets spacious window seats as guaranteed by the airlines. On both sides, the passengers will have the opportunity to view the panorama of Himalayan peaks. 

The pilot makes the best effort flying both ways so that all passengers can enjoy the marvelous Himalayan Mountain views. 

Incredible 360° Wide Panorama of the Himalayan Giant Mountain Range

From the moment, the aircraft lifts off into the Himalayan clear blue sky enjoy the incredible wide 360° Himalayan panorama. Includes grand views of Kathmandu city and the valley surrounded by tiers of green hills with contrast to white peaks.

The plane heads east towards Mt. Everest range, facing Mt. Lhotse and Mt. Makalu with a superb view of Mt. Everest. The plane heads towards Kathmandu, where on the other side passengers can enjoy the views of the Himalayan mountain range.

Affordable Price

A great way to view the world’s highest peaks is by joining in for Everest and Mountain Flight at affordable cost airfare. The easiest and best way to experience Nepal’s beautiful landscapes and Himalayan peaks is at reasonable and affordable airfare.

Step Into The Cockpit

The delightful and exciting moment of Everest and Mountain Flight, where the interested passenger can have the opportunity. Stepping inside the pilot’s cabin in the cockpit will be a great pleasure to view the Himalayan peaks. Passengers are allowed to visit the cockpit during the flight that is after take-off and before landing. 

Certificate

All passengers are honored with an airlines certificate for joining the Mountain Flight with the respective airlines. The certificate you receives describes that you had an enjoyable time joining in for a great flight with concerned airlines.

Nepal Mountain Flight Operator

Since the flow of foreign visitors arrival in Nepal for various adventures as well as other leisure tours and holidays. In Nepal, many private airlines were established to cover and fulfill the needs of the tourism industry. Where domestic airlines companies play a major role to uplift the standard of tourism in Nepal.

Over the past few decades of times, private airlines have mushroomed, and few companies came and disappeared. At present, there are several best airlines companies in operation for domestic and foreign passengers.

Yeti Airlines, a leading airline been operating service for the last two decades till present. Yeti airlines with 16 moderate size modern aircraft with Jetstream airplanes ATR 72-500 models that run services throughout Nepal. 

Especially around big cities and towns of Nepal suitable with all seasonal airports, as well for Mountain flights. For the mountainous region, the airline has a sister company called Tara Airlines with smaller STOL aircraft. Suitable for ‘Short Take Off Landing’ landing at various smaller airstrips around mountains and hilly areas. 

Similarly, Buddha Air is another great airline on the list in Nepal for domestic operations. Flies around Nepal’s major domestic airport using the model aircraft Turbo Engine Beechcraft 1900 D. ATR 42-320 and ATR 72-500.

The company with 16 aircraft is popular for operating Mountain Flight services, with more than 40 seats for passengers.

The rising and leading at present are Shree Airlines, which started its function in the past 8 years. The airline operates Turbo-Jet and recently added another aircraft Bombardier Dash 8-Q 400 to its fleet. Flies to various major towns and cities of Nepal including Mountain Flight every morning at the best time of the seasons. 

What is the Cost of Mountain Flight?

The cost for Mountain Flights normally depends upon season-wise, which is subject to change at any time. As per the airline’s rules and of Nepal Civil Aviation, but at present, as follows.

• For Nepalese: NPR 11300 Per person
• For Indian Nationality: INR 7063.00 Per Person
• Other Nationality: US$ 194.00 Per Person

Besides the flight cost, extra charge for transportation to and from the hotel/airport and vice versa.

How to Book Mountain Flight?

Can book anytime at a convenient time whether for Kathmandu residence or booking from abroad. Depending upon the season-wise, just contact us through our home page/websites.  

Why Book with Us?

Booking with us means hassle-free once booked just relax HRA will do the rest. Getting the best seats on the first flight, a reliable company for all your needs and comforts. Where the company will provide you with updated information and details, as well as affordable prices for any holidays with us. 

When booking any trip with us including Mountain Flight, the company provides all necessary information. Assuring enjoyable and memorable holidays with us, compared to other companies we provide extra effort in all our services.

Booking with us means safe, reliable, and money-worth of holidays with memorable, enjoyable times in Nepal or other Himalayan destinations. 

Transportation

Private transportation will be provided from HRA on booking the Mountain flight. Where the company added the cost of transportation with the Mountain flight fare. Transportation depends upon the size of a group either in a car, coach or in Tourist comfortable Bus. It will be at your disposal till you complete the enjoyable Mountain Flight.

Reschedule and Refund

Depending upon fine and clear weather for Mountain flights, sometimes the flight might get delayed or rescheduled for the next morning. 

The Himalayan weather can be unpredictable sometimes even in the best seasons of the year. However, the airlines and the company will do all they can within the limit and control. In case of a flight being canceled shifted to the next day on the same tickets. People who do not have time for the next day, and need a refund will be repaid but deducted from the cost of transportation and service charges as per the airlines and local company’s rules and policy. 

Discounts as per Seasonal wise

In high tourist seasons, in spring and autumn times, the price of the fare is provided above. But in the low season of winter from December to February, the price will be slightly lower at a discount rate as per the airline’s rules and regulations.

For larger groups and children below 8 years old, where the discount will be made on showing the birth certificate or any valid documents and passports. 

Best Months and Seasons for Mountain Flight 

The best seasons are in spring from March to May and autumn times of September to November months. Most days and morning is fine, clear for a Mountain flight to enjoy the alluring panorama of Himalayan peaks with Mt. Everest. Winter times of December to February are also best for Mountain Flights. But cold morning needs warmer gear to wear departing for the airport and on flight as well.

Mountain Flight Itinerary and Cancellation Policy

 Mountain flight on booking the local agents will provide transportation from the hotel or respective location to the airport. Along with staff an airport, representative to check you in at the airport terminal ticket counter.

Hands your boarding pass for the Mountain Flight, the time is mentioned on the air ticket of the airlines. Normally departure for Kathmandu domestic airport from 6 a.m. onwards till late 10 a.m. depending upon the clear weather condition. Sometimes, one needs to wait at the airport lounge till the flight announcement is made and then walk into a bus. 

A short drive to the aircraft parking area, and then board the airplane, as per the seat allocated. Waiting for the weather forecast from the main tower and green signal, then the plane takes off. In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the flight can be delayed as long as 10-11 a.m.

It could get canceled and postponed for next early morning, for people with not much time. May leads to canceling the flight for the next day, in this situation the company will make a refund. The airlines and concerned local company booked from, the agency will charge a slight amount. 

As per the cancellation rules and norms or policy, the deduction is made for the transportation, as per vehicles used. The other amount will be fully refunded with some service charge as per the companies’ policy. 

Mountain Flight by Helicopter as Optional

Some interested people might be keen to enjoy Himalayan peaks and the world’s highest peaks at close distance. Apart from regular scheduled Mountain flights on normal airplanes, the best option is a helicopter tour.

Nobel Holidays organizes Helicopter Tour around the mountainous region as follows:

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, the most exciting flight to enchantment facing Mt. Everest at the closest distance. Maximum of 3-4 hours flight, weather permitting, take you around Everest base camp and then landing at the best view-point. Standing beneath the world’s towering peaks of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse at 5, 250 m high below the rocky hill of Kalapathar.

The Helicopter does not land at Everest base camp, for several good reasons safety-wise. The base is full of the moraine of rocks and ice where Helipad does not exist due to the movement of glaciers. Even though if it could land it is not safe where rockfalls and avalanches can take place anytime.

The other reason is the view of Mt. Everest is hidden by the giant peaks of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Lola. 

The best scenic spot to land a Helicopter is at the upper base of Kalapathar rocky hill. A great place for overwhelming and closest views of Mt. Everest with surrounding high giant peaks.

A helicopter flight takes off from Kathmandu covering 160 k.m. / 100 miles distance in just a few hours. Landing at the famed Everest View Hotel for breakfast and other refreshments in the close shade of Mt. Everest.

Langtang Helicopter Tour

The closest and fastest way to be close to Himalayan peaks is taking a Langtang Helicopter Tour. A scenic flight of fewer than two hours, Langtang Himalaya is located north and Central Himalaya. 

A mere 32 k.m. of air distance from the capital Kathmandu, enjoy the panorama of Himalayan peaks. Heading north over green high hills to land at Kyanjin a lovely settlement within beautiful Langtang Valley.

The flight takes less than an hour facing sweeping wide angles of Himalayan peaks as far as Manaslu, Ganesh Himal. Enjoy the picturesque views of high snow peaks that surround the Langtang valley at the height of 3, 810 m.

Extension flight to holy Gosainkunda Lake, situated south of Langtang Himal, a sacred spot for both Hindu and Buddhist religions. The Langtang Helicopter Tours of less than two hours, enjoying the spectacular close views of Himalayan peaks.

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Starts from scenic Pokhara city and its beautiful verdant valley with serene lakes surrounded by tiers of green hills. A short flight of less than an hour, heading north towards massif Annapurna Himalayas having a mind-blowing experience. 

From the moment of take-off to landing, views of Annapurna, Manaslu Himalaya follow with majestic Machhapuchare Himal / Fish-Tail peak.

Actually, helicopters are not allowed to land at Annapurna Base Camp. The chopper does a swift round of beautiful Annapurna Sanctuary and of the base camp, facing an alluring panorama of snow-clad peaks.

Muktinath Helicopter Tour

Muktinath Helicopter Tour landing at 3,800 m high on the holy spot around Far West Nepal at Mustang district. Muktinath is revered, as a sacred spiritual pilgrimage destination for Hindus as well as for some Buddhist followers. 

The flight takes off from scenic Pokhara city airport, heading North-West over green hills and valleys. Where views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri follow all the way till it lands at the holy premises of Muktinath. Enter the Muktinath temple compound and enjoy a cold bath on the holy 108 water spouts. 

After a holy wash, bathe then perform the religious rites of prayer, worship, and get blessed by the priest. 

Time to visit the nearby monastery and witness the glory of nature facing the grand vista of snow-clad peaks.

A swift flight brings you back to Pokhara after a most amazing joy ride on a Helicopter Tour.

Conclusion

Mountain Flight in Nepal is a great way to enjoy a holiday for a day, weeks or more around various exotic places. A perfect destination for all types of vacation, especially for people with limited time, who dreams to see Mt. Everest.

Nepal offers a wide range of outdoor activities from leisure, and moderate to challenging adventures. But the best and shortest is taking a Mountain Flight to enchantment being close to the world’s highest peaks.

The post Mountain Flight in Nepal – All Visitors Need to Know appeared first on High Route Adventure.

An amazing country to visit where elevation rises from 60 m low areas of the Terai belt to the world’s highest point and summit of Mt. Everest at 8,848. 86 m, making Nepal a unique country. The great change of climate from sub-tropical to cooler green hills and ending in the Arctic zone of ice and glaciers. A dramatic variation all within 150 km distance, as well as differences from landscapes, and vegetation to various cultures of Nepalese.

A land of 02 % of the world’s flowering plants, and 08 % of birds with more than 857 different species. Including the world’s 04 % mammals, 500 species of butterflies 600 native plant families with 319 species of orchids. Truly a country of natural wonder with the world’s 8th-highest peaks, and an array of hundreds of towering peaks.

Nepal is a premier country for various adventures due to its high Himalayan Mountain range, green rolling hills, and scenic valleys. The main flow of tourism is for trekking and mountaineering as well as exploration of hidden pockets of the Himalayas. 

How to Reach Nepal?

Nepal can be reached via air or on the surface, at present the country with 3 international airports. The main major arrival via air is at Kathmandu and Nepal Tribhuvan International Airport, flying with respective airlines.

From the eastern part of the USA and Europe, flying to the Middle East to Dubai, Quarter, or Abu Dhabi for transit. As well as New Delhi for connecting flights to Kathmandu-Nepal, visitors from Western USA, Japan, Australia, or other Asian countries.

Flying through Hong Kong, Singapore, Kula Lumpur, Bangkok, Dacca, or New Delhi as well China via Tibet to reach Kathmandu-Nepal.   

By overland or surface can reach the southern borders of Nepal from India, and there are few entry points for foreigners. In the far southwest in Suananli at Bhairawa and Mahendranagar, from the far southeast reaching Kakarvita entry. 

Travelers from mainland China can reach Nepal via Lhasa-Tibet via air or overland with one main entry point. At Kyirong and Rasuwagadhi check- the post and entry points of Nepal and Tibet-China and then drive to Kathmandu city.   

How to Get a Nepalese Visa?

Visa for Nepal entry can be obtained from your home country in Nepal Embassies or Consulates, throughout the USA. As well as in major Europe and Asian Countries with few in Africa, which is handled from Dubai or UAE. In the case of no time to get a visa from your country. 

Can get it on arrival at the Nepal Tribhuvan International Airport Immigration counter. This is for arrival by an international airline flight, visitors arriving by overland through India or China via Tibet. Can obtain the entry visa at the main check post, where the immigration department is located. Requires two PP-size photos with cash payment in accepted foreign currencies. Like US, Canadian $ Singapore, Australian, or HK $, as well as Euro, Chinese Yuan, and Swiss Francs.

What Currency Does Nepal Accept?

During your stay in Nepal preferably in Nepalese currency Rupees, which come in bills or notes from Rs. 1,2,5,10,20,50, 100, 500, and 1,000. Especially on trekking for personal expenses, while in cities and big town foreign currency are accepted in big shops, large stores, restaurants, and hotels. Which are convertible currencies acceptable by the State Bank of Nepal (Rastraya Bank of Nepal).

Food & Accommodation in Mountain?

Food and accommodation during the trek in mountainous areas vary from the popular mainstream trail to less trekked areas. On normal popular trekking areas like Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang region. 

The accommodation route trekking around major villages and towns has a wide range of food and accommodation. From simple budget, standard to luxury class hotels, resorts, lodges, and inns or guest houses, as well Home Stay huts.

On average like in standard lodges, rooms are clean and tidy some rooms face views of snow-peaks. Depending upon trekking routes and overnight stops altitude-wise, most lodges offer rooms with common toilets and bathrooms. Running hot and cold water for showers and bathing, only some lodges in larger villages provide rooms with attached toilets and baths.

Higher above 3,600 m hard to find rooms with attached toilets and bathing, due to harsh weather and terrain conditions. Where plumbing can get frozen in using taps and flush, the best is using the common toilets. Normally located outside the hotels and lodge, every lodge has large warm dining rooms heated by pot-bellied stoves.

Foods in main popular routes and around bigger villages have a comprehensive food menu, as well as snacks and bakeries’ products. Serving continental, Chinese, Indian, Tibetan, and Nepalese foods, some lodges serve Mexican, Italian, Japanese, or Korean food also. On higher altitude village lodges, meat items are scarce, as it falls within Buddhist areas. If available it will be stable for a few weeks or months which is not healthy to consume. Unless you are used to the cold and high altitude as well with Asian foods and spices. 

All meals are clean, and hygienically prepared as per your order at least a minimum of an hour ahead. In some smaller villages and settlements, the rooms are simple but nice and clean, serving a limited good food menu. Due to availability and being unaware of cooking some foreign foods, where one has to suffice with simple meals.  Like Nepalese famous Dal Bhat (boiled or steamed rice with lentil soups and mild vegetables and pickles). Including Chinese or Tibetan meals of noodles and pasta fresh home-baked bread, as well pancakes. 

Types of Trekking in Nepal

Various types of Trekking in Nepal, which few countries can offer from tented camping to local lodges with Home-Stay programs. The main flow of visitors is for trekking, and climbing adventures, in the comfort of a nice tea house and lodges.

Trekking in Nepal is one of the main economies of the country as well for local villages on route. Being as the number one premier adventure ground, where outside visitors can find various types of accommodation with an exciting food menu. Trekkers in and around Nepal Himalayas, visitors can have the options of various types of options for overnight accommodations. From simple budget standard lodges, normal tourist lodges, and inns to luxury lodges or resorts on main popular trekking routes.

Teahouse/Lodge Trekking

Tea House was introduced in and around Nepal Himalayas in the early 1980s due to the main flow of trekkers’ arrival. Especially around Annapurna, Everest, and the Langtang Himalaya region, the major tourist destinations for various adventures.

In the early days, the simple accommodation for travelers around rural farm villages was known as Tea-Houses. Over the years the popular region of Nepal, where well-built tea houses flourished into a nice lodge.

Providing spacious rooms, warm dining halls including a list of food menu as well with facilities of attached bath and toilets. Running hot and cold water for showers and bathing with a nice breakfast in a sunny garden, facing views of peaks.

At present, besides popular trekking destinations Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang areas, more tea-house and lodges have mushroomed.  Around the far and wide trekking regions of Nepal, like in Manaslu, Makalu as far towards Kanchenjunga. But the standard of tea houses and lodges differs due to their remote locations.

Camping Trekking

Camping trekking is one of the earliest modes and only ways of reaching around chosen Himalayan destinations. Before Tea-House and Lodges flourished, tented camping was the first and only option for trekkers and adventurers.

At present Tented Camping has almost disappeared around main and popular trekking routes, used only on remote corners of the Himalayas. For trekkers heading for isolated countries of Nepal’s Far East and remote pockets of the Himalayas. Camping trekking is the only possible way to reach the hidden pockets of Himalayan destinations off the beaten tracks.

Especially camping trekking is applied if the trek involves off the main trails of Everest, Langtang, or Annapurna region. As well as for Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Dolpo’s areas, or any other areas, where Tea-House and Lodge are not available.

Camping trekking involves carrying camping equipment, food, and other necessary items required for overnight comforts. The camping is provided with two men spacious tents, dining tents according to group size, including separate kitchen tents. As well as toilet tents and shower tents on request, some companies provide portable chairs and tables also. All foods are carried for the whole trek, and the dining is lit by hurricane lanterns or lamps run by liquid gas.    On camping trekking with a large group of trekking and kitchen staff, cook, kitchen crews with porters or mules. Carrying all the equipment, from the start to the end of the trekking, is a great way to experience the adventure.

Homestay Trekking

Homestay Trekking, a different type of adventure allows you to soak into local culture and customs. While on treks stay overnights in the comfort of nice village huts and cottages, serving as homestay facilities. 

The homestay trekking has been in operation around the remote hill and mountain villages, run and managed by the village community.  Simple accommodation and typical Nepalese meals in harmony with local ancient heritage and traditions. The Home-Stay Trekking programs started in the last two decades, to provide guests with the inner depth of local culture and customs. Includes local farm activities and merriment at dinner time with local folk dance and songs, making your stay memorable. 

Trekking in Nepal with Variation of Routes

Trekking in Nepal with a variation of routes to choose from and enjoy the charm and beauty of the Himalayas. Trekking in Nepal of great variations walking on main popular trails to off the beaten tracks into the mountain wilderness.

Interested travelers and adventurers can have a wide range of options from mainstream trekking trails to hidden pockets of the Himalayas. On main trails enjoy the comforts of nice lovely lodges with a comprehensive delightful food menu, with rooms facing mountain views.

Trekkers can experience the pure adventure of camping as well as choosing trips off the beaten trails. Away from main trekking routes and human habitations and villages, walking into the pure wilderness

Classic Trekking

The classic trekking, an original route to Everest base camp from the town of Jiri, is hardly trekked at present. Due to the shortest way from Lukla, since the airport was built in the 1970s. Where trekkers fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, making the trekking duration much shorter than using the classic trail from Jiri. There are a few other classic routes to reach the chosen Himalayan destinations from Arun Valley to Everest base camp.

Classic Trekking involves, original routes as explored by early pioneers like following the footsteps of legendary mountaineers. On the way to Everest walking on the classic trail used by Tenzing & Hillary in the early spring of 1953.

Off The Beaten Path

Enjoyable and exciting trekking that follows an isolated route, away from main and popular trekking trails. Where walk leads to the complete wilderness within pure and tranquil mountain surroundings, away from villages and maddening crowds.

All off the beaten path is more of an exploration than a normal trekking adventure on trailblazers’ trails. Involves carrying all camping equipment and food to last for the whole trek till it ends on the main road head. 

Trekking Combined Helicopter Flight

This is another way to enjoy an adventure around Nepal Himalayas, a tough walk with easy comfort. On completing the trek take the luxury of a Helicopter flight to Kathmandu or the nearest city concluding the whole trek. 

Trekking combined with Helicopter flights is gaining popularity, especially on Everest base camp treks. A perfect way to enjoy the adventure for trekkers with limited time in Nepal for the Everest base camp trek. Normally flying from Kathmandu to Lukla on regular smaller air-planes, and then returning on a chopper. Most standard trekking itinerary days are 11 to 12 days from the start to the ending point at Lukla. But taking a helicopter saves a few days of downhill walks, where one can enjoy the trek to Everest base camp with a return helicopter. Taking only 8-9 days covering all the main highlights of the high Khumbu and Everest region. Trekking combined with helicopter flights, on reaching the base camp following the main trails to Namche Bazaar and beyond. After achieving the goal, they took a helicopter flight from Gorakshep, the last settlement on route Everest base camp. 

Trekking Region in Nepal

Trekking Region in Nepal, various exotic destinations to choose from, as per one interest and duration of holidays in Nepal. 

Nepal and the Himalayas range offers a wide range of adventure destinations from moderate walks for a few days to a week. An adventurous trek of more than a week to challenging and demanding walks and climbs of three weeks or more.

World’s best trekking region, where one can trek on main popular trails or around hidden pockets of Nepal Himalayas. Trek on off the beaten trails to sheer mountain wilderness, crossing high passes and far from human civilization. Trekking Region in Nepal from Far North East to Remote Western Himalayas explores the wildest country on earth.

Everest Region

The Everest Region of Nepal, covers the areas of Solu Khumbu district, one of the popular trekking and adventure destination. Located in Nepal Mid-East around Mahalangur Himalaya Range, with the world’s highest mountains Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Cho-Oyu. Includes many above and below 7,000 m peaks, the main region for treks, and various adventures around high Khumbu.

Where all the tallest peaks are concentrated in Khumbu as well on the route to Mt. Everest base camp and the climb of Kalapathar. The famous and popular rocky hilltop for excellent close views of Everest and an array of giant peaks.

Everest region offers more than a dozen trekking destinations for interested trekkers, like the famous Everest base camp. Gokyo Valley and its glacial lakes, and climb high Gokyo-Ri for a grand vista of the world’s four highest peaks.

The view from Gokyo-Ri faces Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho-Oyu with views of Ngozumba the longest glacier in Nepal. 

The other famous treks are combination adventures with Gokyo valley and Everest base camp crossing the high Cho-La pass. Similarly, the adventure crosses three high passes of Everest over Kongma-La, Cho-La, and Renjo-La, covering east-to-west Khumbu valleys. Besides trekking the local culture is equally fascinating to enjoy on walks in the comfort of nice lovely lodges.

The other trek around Everest Region is the classic trek to Everest base camp walking from Jiri on the original route. The lower Solu areas of Everest are the least ventured, apart from Jiri to Everest base camp trekking. The Solu area offers a nice pleasant trek to Pikey hill, where one can enjoy a panorama of the Himalayan range with Everest.    

The other exciting high-altitude trek to the Everest region from Makalu and Barun Valley via the high pass of Sherpani Col. As well as trekking from Rolwaling Valley and crossing Tashi-Labtsa high pass or trek from low warm areas of Arun valley.

One can enjoy a short trek to Thyangboche, popularly known as Everest Panorama, where the beautiful monastery is located.

Most treks around the Everest region start and ends at Lukla town, after flying in from Kathmandu. For lower Everest around Solu areas short flight to Phaplu or drive both ways, especially for the Pikey trek.

Annapurna Region

Annapurna Region is one of the most popular and highly rated on the trekking list of Nepal, and probably the world over. Annapurna is a massive Himalayan range with more than a dozen of high peaks that make the Annapurna massif.

Located in Nepal’s North Mid-West around Gandaki Zone, most of the trekking destinations begin and end at beautiful Pokhara city.

Annapurna Himalaya is a massive mountain range, situated between Dhaulagiri in the west with Lamjung Himal and Manaslu in the east direction.

Mt. Annapurna-I, at 8,091 m the first 8,000 m peaks ever climbed in 1950 by French Expeditions. Three years before Mt. Everest was conquered by Tenzing & Hillary in 1953, highly technical peak to climb for mountaineers. 

Annapurna Himalaya with a massive range of peaks, from I to IV with A-South, A-Fang or Vara Shikar, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli. Includes dozens of below and 6,000 meters peaks, which makes the Annapurna region the most sought adventure destination for trekking.

Around Annapurna Region, one can trek on southern green hills in the shadow of Annapurna Himalayan peaks. From moderate, and adventurous to the challenging trek of a few days to a week or more within main and off-the-beaten tracks.  

The Annapurna Himalaya is a vast region with various trekking destinations, from the north around Manang valley to the southern green hills. The Southern range of Annapurna offers a wide range of exciting trekking destinations as follows. 

Ghorepani and Poon Hill, a moderate trek of 3-4 days around the southern hills of the Annapurna Himalayas. One of the most popular treks leads to Ghorepani village and on top Poon Hill at 3,210 m high. Offers stunning sunrise over an array of peaks with views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu Himalaya range with Machhapuchare Himal. 

Annapurna Base Camp and Sanctuary, The shortest base camp trek to the foot of 8,000 m peaks in all Himalayas. The only base camp with facilities of nice, cozy lodges in the heart of the massive Annapurna Himalayas. A trek of a week duration from Pokhara to Pokhara, where a walk leads to climbing on green hills. Covered in a beautiful forest of rhododendron and pine trees, walk through traditional Gurung farm villages of Chomrong.

Chomrong the last village and gateway to Annapurna Sanctuary and base camp, walk leads to a deep river gorge. As the walk progress climbs into a wide-open scenic valley at Sanctuary enclosed by an array of high snow peaks. An exciting place to experience once in a lifetime, where altitude does not exceed 4,130 m.

The highest spot of the adventure, and then the return journey to Pokhara with various options taking longer or shorter routes.

Wide range of trekking on the southern hills of Annapurna like the Khopra Ridge and Khair Lake, the least ventured areas. But gaining popularity over the past decades, a walk on main trails and then heading on off the beaten trails.

The other great trek is to Mardi Himal base camp, also called ‘Other Sanctuary’ quite close to Annapurna Sanctuary. A wonderful trek of a week duration away from mainstream and villages for some days. Leads you to the foot of Mardi Himal and towering Machhapuchare Himal the famed Fish-Tail Peak.

The southern areas of Annapurna offer Royal Trek, where Prince Charles sauntered on the foothills of Annapurna Himalaya. Likewise one can enjoy a short trek to Panchase Hill for a few days, which offers similar views to Poon Hill.  

The other spectacular trek around the Annapurna region is the northern side of the massive Annapurna Himalayas around the high Manang valley. The most famous and popular Annapurna circuit trekking is listed as the world’s top ten best adventure destinations.

One can experience why, a trek with dramatic changes in climate, landscapes to vegetation on daily walks. Where route leads from low warm to cooler hills ending at the barren mountainous arctic zone of ice and glaciers. An exciting walk is a combination of impressive Buddhist cultures with gorgeous views enclosed behind the Annapurna and Chulu range of peaks. A full circuit around the massif Annapurna Mountain range crossing high Thorang-la pass reaching Mustang areas. Then back to low warm areas where adventure completes at scenic Pokhara city. 

The Annapurna Circuit area and Manang valley offer interesting treks to Nar-Phu valley and beautiful Tilicho Lake also.

Manaslu Region

Manaslu Region takes you around Mt. Manaslu, the world’s 8th highest at 8,163 m, with a range of adjoining peaks. Located Nepal Far North Mid-West close to Annapurna Himalayas in the west with massif bulk Ganesh Himal towards the east.

Manaslu Region opened for trekkers in 1991, but remains a Restricted Area for foreign visitors, requiring special permits. Due to the close borders of Tibet / China on a route around scenic Manaslu Valley and high Larke-La Pass.

In the Manaslu Region, the famous trek is Manaslu Circuit an adventure of little more than two weeks duration. The trek starts from low warm areas of the Gorkha district and follows the Buri Gandaki River upstream. Heading close to its glacial source at high Manaslu valley on route to Sama-Gaon village.

An interesting walk from warm farm areas to cooler green hills through several nice villages, then reaching scenic Manaslu Valley. Most interesting is following the historical and ancient Salt Trade Route of Nepal to Tibet and towards Manang areas.  Manaslu Region offers another option, where trekkers can combine Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley, located east of Manaslu. Tsum lies behind the massif Ganesh Himal, known as the valley of happiness.   

Langtang Region

Langtang Region, located around Central Himalayas Langtang Himal is the closest mountain range to Kathmandu valley and the city. Which also falls on the route to Tibet / China border, an overland journey of 5-6 hours drives. Langtang Region offers various adventure destinations, from moderate, and adventurous to challenging treks, from one week to 14 days or more.

Langtang Himal and the region is the third most popular trekking destination after Annapurna and Everest regions.  Langtang Region offers several scenic and cultural places for trekking, the most famous and popular is Langtang Valley. A moderate walk up to Kyanjin at 3,800 m high, situated within scenic and beautiful Langtang valley. A week duration trek starts and ends at Syabrubesi with both ways drives which fall within Langtang National Park.

The next popular trek to Gosainkund a holy pond, located at 4,380 m high, offers a grand vista of the central Himalayas. Trekkers can combine with Langtang Himal and Gosainkund and then crossing high Laurabinaya-La pass at 4,610 m. Trek leads on high ridges to scenic Chisapani hills, then ends the walk at Kathmandu’s northeastern valley rim.

Langtang Region also offers cultural and scenic trekking ‘Tamang Heritage Trail’, where the walk leads close to Ganesh and Langtang Himal. An impressive walk soaking into the local Tamang culture of age-old Buddhism, a Home Stay program run by local communities.

Besides normal moderate and adventurous trekking around Langtang Region, the interested adventurer can join for challenging treks into the pure mountain wilderness. The region provides an adventurous trek and crossing over Ganja-La at 5,200 m pass to the Helambu area. 

Another challenge is trekking to the far end of Langtang’s eastern valley, then crossing Tilman Col at 5,320 m. The pass was named after a British explorer H. W. Tillman who found a possible route from Panch Pokhari to Langtang valley. During the mid-1950 exploring a route to the Tibet border as well, the pass is seldom explored, due to its remote location.

Makalu Region

Makalu Region provides excellent trekking adventures around the Far Eastern Nepal Himalayas, located east of Everest and west of Kanchenjunga Himalaya.

Mt. Makalu at 8,463 m stands as the world’s 5th highest peak situated within the exotic Barun and Arun Valleys. Starts from Tumlingtar town after flying in from Kathmandu, within the warm low country of Arun valley. Drive leads past Khandbari, a large town, and headquarters of the Sanka-Sabha district within the Makalu region, then reaches Num village. From Num walk starts with a down and ups to the last village of Tashi-Gaon, populated by Sherpa tribes. Leaving the last village of Tashi-Gaon climb to Khoma-Danda and cross the Shipton-La and pass towards Barun valley.

A walk leaves behind the dense forest of rhododendron and pine trees, for short high altitude bushes. Barun valley extends westward to Makalu Base Camp at 5,364 m / 17,598 feet high, a scenic spot. Covered in the moraine of ice and snow on the foot of Mt. Makalu, facing views of Baruntse and Chamling Himal. From Makalu views of Mt. Everest’s east face known as ‘Khangsung Face’, from Makalu base return journey on the same route. For adventurous, trekkers can cross the high Sherpani West Col, above 5,800 m pass to the Everest region, and fly from Lukla

Kanchenjunga Region

Kanchenjunga Region, located in Far Eastern Nepal Himalayas where the trek leads to both base camps of the world’s 3rd highest Mt. Kanchenjunga. A massif mountain range at 8, 586 m / 28,169 feet high, straddles the border between Nepal and Sikkim. The northeast states of India, but most trekking and climbing are done from the Nepal side of Kanchenjunga. One of the longest trekking more than three weeks, where flight and drive involve both ways.

The charm of Kanchenjunga trekking is visiting both north and south base camps, as well as walking through an enchanting forest. Lined with rhododendron and pine trees, then reaching arid and wild terrain of the arctic zone at base camps. Besides the Kanchenjunga base camp, one can extend the trek by visiting the remote villages of Watchung-Gola, en route to the Tibet border. On this trek beyond the backside of Kanchenjunga where the trail joins with the Makalu route after crossing the Lumba-Sumba high pass

Mustang Region

Mustang Region falls in Far northwest Nepal, close to Dolpo and Manang areas, once a forbidden country. Where flight or drive involves both ways to Jomsom, the headquarters town of Mustang district. The Upper Mustang is a restricted region, where trekkers require special permits to enter the forbidden former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang. 

Mustang Region, an extension of the Tibetan South West plateau a dry and arid country but the landscapes are scenic. A country of vast beautiful windswept terrain with large canyons and eroded high cliffs with few sparse vegetation.

Mustang Region covers Upper and Lower Mustang to Kaligandaki River valley, the popular route is flying to Jomsom from Pokhara. The walk leads to Kagbeni village the entry point of the Upper Mustang as well a restricted zone. The villages and the people of the Mustang region of strong Tibetan influence, and areas extend to Tibet / China border.  

The main attraction is the local culture of immense interest interwoven with Buddhism heritage, and picturesque landscapes and sceneries. Crossing passes from one valley to another, facing breathtaking views of snow peaks, and entering the former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang. Inside the walled town takes you back into the medieval era period visiting its famous monasteries and places of interest.

Return journey on the same route back to Jomsom town, or taking a higher route towards windblown villages of Yara. Following the upper trail to the holy Muktinath temple premises then reaching Jomsom for a short flight to Pokhara.

Dolpo Region

Dolpo Region is located in Nepal’s Far northwest Himalayas, where the eastern part of Dolpo touches the boundary of Mustang areas. 

An exceptional adventure destination on less frequented trails to beautiful Phoksundo Lake near Ringmo village. Dolpo Region for trekking with two options Lower and Upper Dolpo takes you to high hidden corners at Shey Gompa. Also called Crystal Monastery, is situated in a remote isolated windswept country far from modern civilization.

Dolpo Region is a great and vast wilderness to venture into, the walk follows the old Trans Himalaya Salt Trade Route to the Tibet border.  Dolpo with Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest park of Nepal covering an area of 3,555 sq. km. Reaching the Dolpo region involves flights both ways from Kathmandu via Nepalgunj, a city situated in Far South West Nepal. 

Trekking Permits

Trekking Permits are required on all treks, around Nepal Himalayas except for Peak Climbing, Mountaineering Expeditions. As they have climbing permits and do not need trekking permits, including for Restricted regions on obtaining special permits.

Trekking Permits are issued by your Travel & Trekking agencies upon booking the chosen trips. The Trekking Permit is known as TIMS (Trekking Information Management Systems authorized by TAAN (Trekking Agent Association of Nepal).

TAAN is a semi Government Organization, which’s for Everest Region, especially around the high Khumbu areas. The village community of Khumbu issues permits to enter the Everest region from Lukla town onwards. Besides Trekking, Peak Climbing, or Mountaineering Expeditions all visitors requires National Parks permits or Conservation Area Projects.

Trekking Difficulties

Nepal is a country of high mountains and hills where flat land exists only around the southern areas of the country. Which is known as the Terai belt, then starts the smaller hill called Churia or Siwalik. It extends to mid-hill and towards high hills ending at the greater Mahabharata range and the Himalayas. Where trekking region starts from mid or high hills and valleys. So uphill is the only way to reach your destinations around the Himalayas with downhill on the return journey.

Easy Trek in Nepal

There is no easy trek in Nepal, however, short-distance walks are considered easy trekking, on gradual short ups and downs.

Easy to Moderate Trek in Nepal

Easy to Moderate Trek in Nepal, begins from short pleasant flat trails and then climbs leads to mid and high hills for a few hours. To reach respected overnight destinations in the comfort of nice local lodges and inns. The Easy to Moderate Trek in Nepal combination of a short easy flat, short-hour climb ending with a downhill.

Moderate to Difficult Trek in Nepal

Moderate to Difficult Trek in Nepal with a wide range of trekking destinations that leads to moderate walks, with some difficulty. That is depending upon one physical fitness and exercise before booking the trek to chosen areas of Nepal Himalaya. Moderate to Difficult Trek in Nepal of variations walking from low flat farm areas and then heading for the climb. Difficult section to face depending upon the hours of climb on uphill either with steep ups or on a gradual uphill. Moderate to Difficult Treks leads to smaller ridges and passes with long descent as well.

Difficult to Challenging Trek in Nepal

For these types of adventures, where trekkers need to be well prepared with good exercise before and after the bookings. These kinds of treks lead to high altitude terrain, with much steep uphill for hours. As well involves longer walks to designated overnight stops, the challenging walks depending upon the areas of trekking. The difficulty is the length of the journey and coping with steep ups and downhill for some hours. The Challenging and demanding part of the trek especially crossing over high passes in snow-deep conditions. 

As well as climbing steep ups on high altitudes above 4,500 m and 5,000 meters ridges and passes. Including long hours of walks taking more than 6 to 8 hours sometimes, in some areas of trekking destinations.  The challenging trek may need to climb and descend in a few technical sections, where ropes are needed for safety.

High Altitude Sickness During the Trek

High altitude sickness is commonly known as AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), which occurs above 3,000 m high or lower sometimes. Normally one gets AMS if not well acclimatized, which is quite common on a high-altitude trekking adventure.  

The symptoms of AMS are slight to a hard throbbing headache, loss of appetite, sleepless nights, and feeling nausea. In this situation, the victim needs to drink from water to hot drinks and soups. Having rest with extra days in the same place, if the patient does not recover. The patient needs to be brought down immediately to safe heights, where he/she was well before.

The most severe symptoms are HACE & HAPE which is High Altitude Cerebral Edema, High Altitude Pulmonary Edema. Which are water in the brain and later the water in the lungs, if these symptoms persist along with headache.

Immediate evacuation by any means of the fastest transportation to bring the patients to the nearest medical post or a hospital. The quickest way is to call for a helicopter service and inform the right location to be picked up.    

Prevention against AMS is walking at a slow pace, and having enough rest in between walks. Especially on high hills with much altitude to gain, drinking enough water or any safe liquid. As well as having rest days to support acclimatization, like walking up and sleeping low is the best way to get acclimatized. Some people might take Diamox which can help to acclimatize but has some side effects, needs to counsel your doctor. When and how to use the dosage properly, but the safe way is having rest and walking at a slow pace.

Travel & Medical Insurance to Include Helicopter Rescue

The most important the first place after booking the trip to the Himalayas is to obtain Travel & Medical Insurance covering Helicopter Service for rescue if required.

Travel Insurance in case the trek gets delayed by broken roads, trails from landslides, or avalanches. Political strikes or bad weather conditions, where sometimes the domestic flight can get canceled due to unfavorable weather.

In these cases, the company might lead to cancel or delay the trip or add extra days to the itinerary. This leads to extra costs, where travel insurance will cover and reimburse the additional extra expenses. Where Helicopter services might be included instead of normal regular domestic flights.  Medical insurance in case of serious illness on treks, the fastest means of evacuating the victims is by Helicopter. Bringing the patient to the nearest good hospitals in Kathmandu or any big city like Pokhara. Where Medical & Travel Insurance should cover using the helicopter services. 

Trekking Gears & Equipment List

Trekking Equipment for moderate to adventurous trekking

Most important of all when packing and leaving your country, check the needful trekking gear to carry. Depending upon the season and chosen treks and duration of the trip.

Shorts, skirts, or lightweight trousers are ideal in the heat of the day along with T-shirts, long-sleeved cotton shirts, and sun hats. During the evening and the higher altitude warmers, clothing will be needed.  

GOOD TREKKING BOOTS, RUNNERS / SPORTS SHOES, SLIPPERS / SANDALS, FIBER PILE JACKETS, SHORTS OR SKIRTS (for ladies), LIGHT COTTON TROUSERS: BREECHES /TRACKSUIT BOTTOMS /ULTRA FLEECE TROUSERS: DUVET / DOWN JACKETS (Down feathers or synthetic (required in autumn/winter and early springtime), WOOL BALACLAVA, WOOL MITTS: (required in autumn/winter and early springtime), WATERPROOFS: Jacket and trousers.

SUN HATS, SCARF Silk/Nylon, useful for keeping the sun off the back of your neck. SUNGLASSES / GOGGLES: Essential to get a pair that cuts out 100% UV rays SUNSCREEN CREAM: High protection factor [20 or higher] or high altitude glacier cream due to thin air the U/V is stronger in the sun.

LIP SLAVE/ LABISAN: Protection for the lips with a sunscreen

WATER BOTTLE: 1-liter metal to keep warm while at night time.

TOILET ITEMS: HEAD TORCHES: Petzel (recommended) -spare batteries and bulbs. SEWING KIT: SMALL KNIFE: Swiss army style – has many uses

NOTEBOOK/DIARY/PENS & SMALL PADLOCK: Useful for locking your kit/duffel bag, MONEY BELTS.

OPTIONAL

THERMAREST: Or a similar self-inflating mattress, that gives decadent luxury on camping trips.

CAMERA GEAR, WALKING STICKS / POLES: 

Useful for crossing rivers and in snow and ice areas.

The following items can be bought or hired in Kathmandu/ Pokhara also if it’s too much to carry from home.

Independent Trek or Trekking with an Agency

In Nepal Himalayas on the most popular trekking routes and destinations like Annapurna, Everest & Langtang region. Where one can trek as FIT (Free Individual Trekkers) or join a reputed and reliable trekking agency with Government Registered Guide to accompany them. 

Trekking with an Agency

Trekking with an agency is the best way to enjoy the adventure holiday in Nepal, for one safeness. On booking, all formalities required for the trek will be arranged by the local company in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Like obtaining trekking permits, national park and conservation tickets, including domestic flights, accompanied by a proper Government License Guide. Communicate well, in various foreign languages apart from English-speaking guides, which will make it easy.  As well as to gain more knowledge of the trekking areas from local cultures, religions, and history, including flora/fauna.

 Independent Trekking / FIT (Free Individual Travelers/ Trekkers)

Independent Trekking or FIT were early visitors who traveled and explored the Nepal Himalayas in the early days. Before the proper tourism industry or trekking agencies were established in the country, independent trekking is still in trend.

Especially around the mainstream trekking routes, such as Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang Himal region. Where one can find comfort overnight stops in local lodges, and the trails are well-established and straightforward. But if one wants to travel around remote corners, one needs to book with proper reliable Government Regisrated Companies. Trekking with License Guide and porters, as you will be employing guides and porters which will boost the country’s economy. Independent Trekking is best for visitors who know the country very well and have traveled many times in Nepal Himalayas.

Best Seasons to Trek in Nepal

Nepal and the Himalayas are amazing places on this planet, where all types of travelers and age-group. Can join in for various types of adventure holidays in Nepal Himalayas, whichever destinations are chosen. The right season of the year would be perfect to enjoy the holidays of a lifetime experience.

Trekking Nepal Himalayas in Winter Times

Wintertime trekking in Nepal Himalayas will be a perfect holiday, especially with Christmas and New Year vacations. Where all types of people, families with children, school/college groups, and corporate executives can plan for Himalayan adventures.

In the winter season from December to the midst of February, most days are clear and fine with blue sky. Much colder temperatures in the shade, late afternoon till morning time before the sun hits the place that you stay. Wintertime is best for a moderate short trek that does not involve crossing high passes.  To plan high-altitude trekking in winter is quite challenging as it can get snow sometimes, during the walks. Days are much shorter due to sunlight hours with freezing temperatures in the morning and night times. Most mountain lodges will be closed for winter, but interesting to walk when there are not many trekkers on the trails. Although few trekkers do dare trek to Everest Base Camp even in the middle of winter times, defying the cold temperatures.

Trekking Nepal Himalayas in the Spring Season

The high and peak season for trekking in Nepal and all around the Himalayas, where days are longer with enough sunshine. But much colder morning and night time in the high hills and mountainous region. Most days are clear for views and pleasant walks can get cloudy with light rains sometimes. Where the extra wind-chill factor makes it colder, can expect snowfalls in trekking high areas. This is the time when hills and valleys are green, and lively with seasonal flowers in full bloom time. Makes trekking more enjoyable and very scenic during spring, one of the best times to plan a trek in Nepal.

Trekking in Nepal in the Summer Season

Summer season begins from June to August months, with low trekking times as the good end of most mountaineering expeditions. As summer also falls during monsoon wet and rainy times, where one can expect much rain most days.

The rain can continue for several days, where views of mountains lie hidden with monsoon rain clouds. Chances of seeing clear views of snow peak one have to be lucky, especially in the morning times are clear for views. In summer or monsoon times the hills and valleys are green and bright with lush vegetation. But can be a paradise for nature lovers and botanist students with exotic flora in the summer season. 

But the best trekking in summer is the low season, encountering fewer numbers of trekkers on the route. The only difficulty in trekking is in summer when most lodges will be closed due to the low-off tourist season.  

Trekking in Nepal in the Autumn Season

One of the best times for trekking and other various adventures in Nepal and around the Himalayas. The days are crystal clear for views and pleasant walks, but the days are short due to sunlight hours. Much colder morning and in the late afternoon till nighttime with the bright starry night sky. Chances of snowfall at higher elevations, but a perfect time for country walks.

One of the high seasons for trekking in Nepal and around the Himalayas, most days are clear for scenic mountain views.

FAQ about Trekking In Nepal

Can I do Solo Trekking in Nepal?

Yes, but only around the main trekking areas of Nepal Himalayas, like around the Annapurna region, and Everest or Langtang Himal areas. Apart from this region, where one needs to book with local reliable trekking companies, accompanied by good guides.

Can you Trek in Nepal without a Guide?

Yes, solo or individual trekking, as well as some joining with friends without the aid of a local guide. Without a guide trekking in Nepal, applies only to the main popular routes, like Everest, Annapurna, or Langtang Himal. As well for a few day’s hikes or treks of moderate grades, one has to obtain trekking permits oneself.

How to Prepare for Trekking in Nepal?

Planning and booking the trip of your choice starts with some physical exercise, running, jogging, and walking up and downstairs. As well as collect much information about the trekking region from culture, hardship, and facilities of local lodges or camping. Packing the right items is required for trekking as per the season duration of trips.

Is it safe to trek in Nepal?

It is the safest country in the world, best to trek with a guide or group of trekkers and friends. Unfortunate accidents and misleading trekking trails can lead to danger, otherwise, it is safe to trek in Nepal Himalayas.

What are Some Basic Tips for Trekking in Nepal?

The basic tips to know are carrying the best trekking gear and the right time of the season. If it is too expensive and too much to carry stuff from home countries. One can purchase needful gear and items in Kathmandu also saves money and load to carry on flights.

Responsible Trekking

When trekking anywhere in the world and in Nepal, where all visitors should be aware of local cultures. As well as eco-systems not disturbing or making a mess of the pristine environments and respecting the cultures and customs. 

Make sure that you are doing the right thing by discarding the litter and garbage at the right disposal sites. When entering temples and monasteries ask your guide about the norms and rules, as well as take pictures.

On treks follow the guide and walk in the right direction, when encountering prayer walls or monuments. Using hot showers unless heated by solar-electric power rather than from a wood fire, discourage begging children.  Stick with saving the green environment and leave nothing except for your footprints.

Conclusion

Nepal and the Himalayas, are one of the world’s greatest and leading adventure destinations for all seasons. Depending upon the choice of destinations as per one’s holiday duration in Nepal, besides scenic mountain views and landscapes.

You will be traveling around friendly villages, where Nepal and Nepalese are known for kindness, politeness, and humbleness. Where ever you stay or travel you will be welcomed with big smiles and the warm hospitality of Nepalese people.

The post Trekking in Nepal – A Complete Travel Guide appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Annapurna Himalayas is one of the largest mountain ranges in Nepal and probably around the globe. Provides various options for trekking adventure within Annapurna Himalaya, located in Far North Mid-West Nepal in Gandaki Zone.

Annapurna Himalayas with more than seven major peaks the highest Annapurna-I at 8.091 m, A-II, III, and IV with Gangapurna. Includes Vara Shikar / Annapurna Fang, Annapurna South, and Huin Chuli with many peaks from above and below 6,000 m. Annapurna Himalaya is situated between Lamjung and Manaslu Himal in the east with Dhaulagiri Himalaya range towards the west.

Annapurna Himalayas offers moderate, adventurous, or challenging trekking for a day to more than a week adventures. Where one can enjoy the Himalayan country walks around the southern hills of Annapurna, as far as North in Manang Valley. Where all treks provide fascinating and delightful moments with ever-present stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range.

Besides, wonderful trekking around the Annapurna region, the local cultures, and the landscapes of great diversity make the adventure more interesting. Most people around the world are unaware, that

Mt. Annapurna-I was the first eight thousand meters peak ever climbed. Summited by French Expedition on June 3rd, 1950, three years ahead before the conquest of Mt. Everest in 1953. 

In the Annapurna region, daily walks lead to various changes in vegetation and climate from sub-tropical to cooler temperatures on the Himalayan hills. Extending towards an arctic zone of remorseless fields of ice and glaciers as walk leads to the foot of high mountains. Most treks start and end at beautiful Pokhara city, located on a verdant valley enclosed by tiers of green hills. Facing grand views of Annapurna massif from the city itself, a charming place and renowned tourist destination.

Various options for trekking adventure around the Annapurna Region, with beautiful destinations from scenic walks in the harmony of immense cultures.

We have lined the following trekking around Annapurna Region, with grading moderate to adventurous, from short to longer walks.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna base camp trek can be shorter or made a few days longer, adding with Ghorepani and Poon Hill trek. A beautiful and scenic trek in the close shadow of the mighty Annapurna Himalaya range, starting with a short drive from Pokhara.

Heading towards the foothills of Annapurna Himalayas, on ending the vehicle drive walk through farm villages of Bhirethati. As climb leads to a slow uphill past Hille village to Tirkhedhunga, a lovely spot with cascading waterfalls.
From Tirkhedhunga spend an overnight in a nice lodge, as the route leads to climbing on stone steps to Ulleri village. Walk on the winding path within the lovely forest of pines and rhododendron trees then reach a scenic village at Ghorepani.

Located on top of a ridge, at the base of the famous view-point Poon Hill, the next morning an hour’s climb. Reaching Poon Hill at the height of 3,210 m high offers a brilliant view of sunrise over the chain of peaks. Overlooking Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu range with majestic Machhapuchare Himal, the Fish-Tail peak. From Poon Hill and Ghorepani, the next adventure to Annapurna Base Camp and the picturesque Sanctuary. The walk follows the high hill covered in rhododendron forest to Tadapani, where the trail of Ghandruk, Ghorepani, and Annapurna base splits. 

After spending an overnight at Tadapani, on the downhill to Kimrong River and then a steep climb with a gradual section to Chomrong. A large Gurung village and the last permanent settlement before Annapurna base camp and sanctuary.

Walk into a forested path and downhill to a place called Bamboo, situated in a gorge of Modi River. This is one of the few treks where the walk follows a river upstream right up to its glacial source. The adventure continues uphill past Dovan and Deurali a small settlement with several lodges for the trekkers.
As walk head steeply up to Machhapuchare Himal Base Camp, from here the start of Annapurna Sanctuary. A gradual walk once entering the scenic sanctuary then reaching the main highlight at Annapurna Base Camp. The highest spot of the trek at 4,130 m, is enclosed within amphitheaters of giant snow peaks.

Spending overnight in a simple cozy lodge at Annapurna base camp, return journey on the same trail to Chomrong village. From Chomrong down to Jhinu Danda, a village with a natural hot spring, trekkers can enjoy a refreshing dip in a warm pool. Next morning short walk to a road head for an exciting drive to Pokhara after a wonderful time on the high hills and at Annapurna Base Camp.

Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

Annapurna Base Camp is the only shortest adventure to 8,000 m peaks base camp in the Himalayas range. As well the only base camp with the facilities of a nice and cozy lodge on the foot of the world’s highest peaks.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is a perfect adventure of a week duration for eager travelers with limited time in Nepal. Start the exciting walk after a few hours’ drive from scenic Pokhara city, heading towards cooler hills from low warm areas.

A climb past the nice village of Jhinu with a natural hot spring, reaching the large Gurung village of Chomrong. Gurung is the main ethnic tribe of the Annapurna Himalaya range, which practices Buddhism and ancient Bon religions.

From Chomrong with down and ups reaching a river gorge at Bamboo, a small settlement with several nice simple lodges. The adventure continues heading through lovely woods of rhododendron, oaks, and pine trees past Dovan, Himalaya Hotel, and Deurali. As climb reaches a high ridge at Machhapuchare base camp, located beneath the towering North Face of Machhapuchare Himal. 

After an overnight at MBC, short for Machhapuchare Base Camp, then enter into a picturesque valley at Annapurna Sanctuary. Walk for short hours to Annapurna base camp, a place with 3-4 good lodges catering to the needs of trekkers.

Annapurna Base Camp is at 4,130 m, the highest point of adventure in the heart of the massive Annapurna Himalaya range. Enjoy the panorama of giant peaks that surrounds the base camp, on the foot of the world’s ten highest Mt. Annapurna.

Return journey on the same route to Chomrong, with time at Jhinu for the last overnight stop. At Jhinu village enjoy a refreshing dip in the hot spring before heading back to Pokhara. After an enjoyable great adventure to Annapurna Base Camp, the shortest memorable trek to experience around the Himalayas. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek or Around Annapurna trekking is one of the most sought adventures around the Himalayas. Which is also listed as the world’s top ten adventure destinations, due to its dramatic change of scenery on daily walks.

Annapurna Circuit, the most popular longer-duration trekking adventure of two weeks, covers all the scenic and cultural highlights.

A mesmerizing walk from the North to the Southern region of the great massif Annapurna Himal range with a climb to the high Thorang-La Pass. 

Annapurna Circuit trek starts from the low warm farm country of Lamjung, after an interesting drive from Kathmandu. The walk leads towards cooler hills, as you experience a great bio-diversity of landscapes, vegetation, climate, and cultures.

Heading above Masrsyangdi River to enter Manang at Tal Besi and towards Dharapani and Chame, headquarter town of the Manang district.

From Chame onwards within strong Buddhism cultures of age-old heritage, a walk leads from Chame to enter scenic Manang Valley. The adventure leads to Pisang village and then reaches the main Manang village, where most trekkers spend an extra day for acclimatization. Before heading towards higher ground and for the climb to Thorang-La, a perfect height and lovely place for rest days. 

Manang at 3,540 m high offers many options for short day hikes to Gangapurna ice-falls and glacial ponds. As well as an adventurous walk to Ice Lake, or just relax and explore the village and the old monastery of Braga.

After Manang, head towards the end of Manang Valley to Phedi or High Camp to traverse over Thorang-La Pass. Start the day early morning to cross Thorang-La Pass the highest point of the adventure at 5,416 m. A vantage spot on top Thorang-La of the spectacular panorama of the Himalaya range of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Damodar, and Chulu’s peaks. From the pass a long downhill to nice areas of Muktinath. Regarded as one of the holiest of holy spots for pilgrimage, where Hindu pilgrims and Buddhists pay homage to worship.

Muktinath areas are located within the Mustang district, where Thorang-La Pass forms the boundary of Manang and Mustang areas. Spending time at Muktinath downhill to Kaligandaki River valley and reaching Jomsom, the headquarter town of Mustang district. The adventure continues on a pleasant trail towards a low warmer country after walking through the charming villages of Marpha and Tukuche.

Where views of Nilgiris, Tukuche, and Dhaulagiri peaks follow most of the way to reaching the warm low village of Tatopani. Before Tatopani, a walk leads through the world’s deepest gorge of Kaligandaki in between the staggering peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. 

Tatopani is a lovely village with a natural hot spring, hence the name ‘Tato-Pani’ means Hot Water. Enjoyable time at Tatopani village and then a long climb to Ghorepani village is a scenic and popular village. Next early morning short climb to Poon Hill for stunning sunrise views over an array of Mid-West Himalayan peaks.

Adventure slowly comes to an end after an overnight at Ghorepani and a visit to Poon Hill. The last day’s walk leads down to low warm farm villages, and then a few an hour of exciting drive to Pokhara. On concluding the most fascinating and mesmerizing adventure and experience on Annapurna Circuit Trekking.

Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking an adventure around both scenic areas of high Manang Valley. The trek is almost similar to the full Annapurna circuit but with a few days’ difference and options of routes. That is after visiting Tilicho Lake, one can either get back on the main trail of Annapurna Circuit. 

Then continue towards Thorang-La Pass to end the trek at Jomsom taking a short flight a long drive to scenic Pokhara. As well as trekking to Tatopani and Ghorepani villages and then reaching Pokhara, on completing the full circuit.

The other route besides heading back to the main trail of Thorang-La is crossing Mesokanto-La at 5,099 m high. Then reach Jomsom for a scenic short flight to lovely Pokhara city, or take an exciting drive from Jomsom town.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake begins after a drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara, heading towards Lamjung town at Besisar. As the drive heads higher up on rough hilly tracks to Chame, the headquarter town of Manang areas. Walk either from Dharapani village or Chame, eventually leading to the scenic high valley of Manang through Pisang village. 

At Manang spend an extra day for acclimatization and then route divers from the main Annapurna Circuit trail to Tilicho Lake. An adventure around remote pockets of Manang, the walk leads past Khangsar and Sri Kharka, isolated settlements to Tilicho Base Camp. 

The last place with lodges for overnight accommodation, the next day a few hour’s walk to Tilicho Lake emerald-colored. Enjoy the beautiful charming scenery enclosed within the towering peaks of Tilicho, Gangapurna, and Nilgiris, the lake considered sacred.

By the Hindu and Buddhist followers, with myth and history in Hindu epic tales of Ramayana. From Tilicho head back on the main trail of Annapurna Circuit joining at Yak Kharka. Where walk leads to the base of Thorang-La Pass, next morning head for the long undulating climb on top Thorang-La. From the top enjoy a grand panorama of surrounding giant peaks, the pass festooned with thousands of prayer flags. A long descent leads to the base of the pass and then an easy walk to Muktinath. Regarded as the holiest of holy sites for Hindus and Buddhists around the Himalayas, from Muktinath head down to Kaligandaki valley.

Eventually, the walk ends on reaching the large Jomsom town, headquarters of Mustang district with a small airstrip. The next morning enjoys the short scenic flight to the beautiful city of Pokhara, where the Annapurna & Tilicho Lake trek completes. 

Nar-Phu Valley Trek

Nar-Phu Valley, located on the far and remote high side of Manang Valley, is a restricted area. All foreign visitors require a special permit to enter Nar-Phu Valley from the last village of Kodo near Chame town. 

The Nar-Phu opened in 2002 since then the area is gaining much popularity among trekkers in search of pure wilderness. The region is considered a Shangri-La, well-hidden around isolated pockets of the northern region of Annapurna Himalaya. Both Nar and Phu a village on a windswept terrain in between Damodar and Annapurna Himalaya ranges. The windblown villages are enriched with the ancient heritage of strong Buddhism culture, similar to its Tibetan predecessor.

It is truly a wild country to experience starting from the main trail of the Annapurna Circuit route to Kodo village. From here onward trek diverts heading due north into forbidden and restricted areas of Nar & Phu Valley. An awesome wild country to experience, the walk leads to a river gorge covered in dense pine and rhododendron trees. As the walk follows entering a wide-open valley, where tree lines fade for short Himalayan bush and shrubs. Then reaching Phu village with time to explore its old monastery and the closely attached houses. Overlooking superb views of Himlung Himal, Chulu’s with Annapurna Himalayan peaks, as the walk takes you to the next village at Nar. Quite similar to Phu village, an exciting place to visit around and observe the local traditional farm life. 

After visiting Nar and Phu villages, and then towards the high Kang-La pass, a steep climb up to the pass. Facing a spectacular panorama of the Annapurna, Damodar, and Chulu ranges, a long descent leads to the main trail at Manang Valley.

On reaching the main Manang village, either head towards Thorang-La pass for the return journey from Jomsom on a flight to Pokhara. The other option is heading back on the same trail past Pisang and Chame town for a drive back to Kathmandu.

Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang region, although it falls beyond the West of the Annapurna Himalaya range, is still included within the Annapurna area. This is due to ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project), which also covers the Mustang region and Kaligandaki Valley. The Upper Mustang region is at one time a forbidden kingdom for outside visitors, which was opened from 1992 onwards

The main standard route of the Upper Mustang leads beyond Jomsom and Kagbeni following the ancient Trans Himalaya Salt Trade Trail. Where a caravan of yaks and mules laden with goods passed through from Nepal to Tibet border via Upper Mustang. The trail follows up to Karo-La Pass, the border between Nepal and Tibet, where trade still exists.

Starts from scenic Pokhara city, a short flight to land at Jomsom airport, the headquarter town of Mustang district. From Jomsom walk begins heading towards Kagbeni village, the gateway to Upper Mustang and the former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang. From Kagbeni onwards, trekkers need a special permit to enter the restricted area of the Upper Mustang. The walk leads towards a vast windswept plain, which is an extension of the South West Tibetan plateau within colored large canyons. As route takes you through the lovely villages of Chusang, Syangboche to Ghami crossing a few high passes of above 3,500 m.

During the walk enjoy grand delightful views of snow-capped peaks, as the walk follows through many Buddhist prayer monuments. Reaching Tsarang / Charang village and then enter the walled former kingdom of Lo-Manthang, an exciting medieval era-like town. Once inside the Lo-Manthang explore the narrow-paced streets and town, with more than 150 closely attached houses. 

Visit the famous monasteries Namgyal Gompa, Champa Lakhang (God House), Red Thubchen Gompa, and Chyodi Gompa. Tour of the great Entrance Hall to visit the fort palace interior requires special permission, where the last King or Raja.

Named Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista resided from 1930 to 2016, the history traces back to Ame Pal, the warrior who founded this Buddhist kingdom in 1380. 

The founder of Lo Country and Lo-Manthang has changed little over the years. After a great visit to Lo-Manthang and lovely villages on the route, return journey with options either take the high trail. Which leads to Muktinath holy temple premises before Jomsom, or follows the same route towards Kagbeni and Jomsom.

On reaching Jomsom in the comfort of nice hotels and lodges, then next early morning a short flight to Pokhara. After a great exciting adventure in the Upper Mustang trekking.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani & Poon Hill trekking is the most popular and shortest-duration adventure on the southern hills of the Annapurna Himalaya range. An adventure without the problem of catching high altitude sickness or AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). The highest spot for an overnight stop is above 2,885 m at Ghorepani village and on top Poon Hill at 3,210 m. This short adventure starts from the beautiful and renowned tourist city of Pokhara, a drive to the starting point of the trek. The walk leads past nice farm villages within paddy terraces, and then climbs up to Ulleri village, as the air gets cooler. After a steep climb on many stone steps, the walk gets better on a gradual uphill trail within a lovely forest. 

As the walk proceeds then reach a high ridge at Ghorepani village, situated amidst rhododendron and pine forest surroundings. Spend overnight in the comfort of a nice cozy lodge, next morning an hour hike to Poon Hill.

The highest point of the trek rewards stunning sunrise views that reflect on an array of Mid-West Himalayan Mountain ranges. Includes Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu Himalaya range with magnificent Machhapuchare Himal the famed Fish-Tail peak. 

After a glorious moment back to Ghorepani for a return journey to Pokhara, on an alternative route with a climb to Deurali. Facing grand views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayas range, then down to a gorge at Bhanthati, a small settlement. From here descend to a stream, then climb to Tadapani a place with many lodges with views of Annapurna peaks. 

A lovely walk into the cool shade of rhododendron and pine forest, and then downhill to the large village of Ghandruk. The village inhabited by Gurung the hill tribes of the Annapurna region follows Buddhism and ancient Bon religions.

At Ghandruk with time explore the village and its small museum, where one learns about the local culture and customs. Last day walk down to low farm areas and then towards a road-head for a few hour drive back to Pokhara.

Ghorepani and Poon Hill is a short moderate trek, a perfect hiking holiday for all types of travelers and age groups.

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek, Mardi Himal is another exciting trekking adventure around the southern ridges of the Annapurna Himalaya range. Located a mere distance from Pokhara city, a short drive to the hills of Dhampus village at 1,530 m high.

The walk begins countering the ridges within a forested path to Potana village, a place with many good lodges for trekkers. The adventure follows up to Deurali a ridge top, where the route of Ghandruk, Landruk, and Mardi Himal diverts.

From Deurali into complete isolation, away from main trails and villages with only smaller settlements with simple lodges for trekkers. Following the forested trail within tall rhododendron and pine trees reach Low Camp and then reach High Camp. The last place for an overnight stop next morning hike to Mardi Himal base camp, the highest spot of the trek. Located at 4,500 m high close to Mardi Himal a trekking peak at 5,587 m / 18,330 feet.

Situated on a high ridge beneath towering Mt. Machhapuchare the Fish-Tail, offers a stunning panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna’s with Manaslu range. 

Return journey on the same trail, and then route diverts downhill to low warm farm village of Siding. Where drive leads to Pokhara, with another option is to walk to Landruk village and then drive back to Pokhara.  

Khopra Ridge Trek

Khopra Danda / Ridge an adventure around the hidden pockets of the massive Annapurna Himalaya range. An enjoyable trek, a perfect country walks within pure mountain wilderness away from mainstream trails and villages for some days.

For Khopra Danda / Ridge trekking with few options, either walk on the main trail of the Ghorepani and Poon Hill route. The other trail leads away from the main trail, eventually ends at Poon Hill and Ghorepani, then continues to Khopra Ridge. 

A lovely walk following the main trail to Ghorepani, after a short drive from Pokhara and then towards cooler hills. The first section of the trek on the main trails to Tirkhedhunga, past Ulleri village to Ghorepani for an overnight stop.

Next morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise views with a grand panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu Himal. From Poon Hill and Ghorepani a slow downhill walk to the village of Chitre. Where route diverts away from the main trail heading towards remote corners to Khopra Danda past the Sauta farm village.

On leaving the last village of Sauta, following the forested path up to Chistibung, from here onward tree lines drop. As climb leads to the high ridge at Khopra Danda, located in between the staggering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalaya ranges.

From Khopra Danda a day hike to Khair Lake, a holy spot hidden behind Annapurna South and Vara Shikar peaks. Once a year a religious festival is held in the full moon of August, a Hindu festival called Jani Purnima.

After an enjoyable time at Khair Lake and Khopra Ridge, return journey on a different route to Tadapani and Ghandruk villages. Back on the main trail, and then drive to Pokhara, after a great experience and adventure on Khopra Danda / Ridge.

Siklis Eastern Annapurna Trek

Siklis Eastern Annapurna Trekking, a short week’s walk away from the main trail, is a great country walk. Starts from Pokhara with a short drive to Mardi Pul, on the outskirt of Pokhara Valley. As the walk begins facing Machhapuchare Himal and Annapurna peaks and then climbs up to Khairpani and Ghale Gaon.

Lovely nice hill villages of Gurung the main hill tribes of Annapurna and Lamjung area. Where one can witness the local cultures, with time to explore the villages on route, and then into complete wilderness. A walk leads to a steep climb on top of Nauli Kharka, the highest point of the trek at 2,550 m. Enjoy close views of the majestic Annapurna Himalaya range of peaks with Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, IV, and A-II. Includes majestic Mt. Machhapuchare at a mere distance right ahead of Nauli Kharka, a cattle herder grazing meadow amidst the forest surrounding.

From Nauli Kharka, head downhill to a river and then up for an hour and on a gradual pleasant path. As the walk continues towards a lovely large village at Siklis, located right beneath Annapurna-II and Lamjung Himal.

Spend an extra day at Siklis one of the largest and most lovely villages populated by Gurung people. The main ethnic hill tribes of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal follow the Buddhist religion, as well as the ancient Bon sect of pre-Buddhism.

A great place to explore and observe the local culture along with amazing views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. From Siklis down to a road-head, for a short drive to Pokhara, after a wonderful adventure on Siklis and Eastern Annapurna range.

Panchase Hill Trek

Panchase Hill is located a mere distance from Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake towards South West at 2,509 m high. An interesting short, scenic country walk of less than a week duration, within an enchanting forest of rhododendron and pine trees. Where views of Annapurna Himalayan peaks follow throughout the trek from the start to the end. A perfect trek for all types of travelers and age-group with limited holidays in Nepal. An opportunity to refresh in the cool mountain air facing spectacular views of dramatic landscapes with snow peaks.

From Pokhara, various options to start the trek, walk from the Phewa Lake dam side, or on a boat. After a short boat ride hike up to a hill towards Buddhist Peace Stupa or take a short drive. Choosing various ways to start the trek eventually reaches the first village of Bhumdi, situated on a high ridge. A farm village with a backdrop of Annapurna Himalayan peaks and Machhapuchare Himal the famed ‘Fish-Tail’.

After spending an overnight at Bhumdi, the next morning walks follow beyond the village and farmland into a forested path. The route leads around nice open meadows then a steep climb to a hill downhill to Panchase Bhanjyang.

A small farm village with few simple lodges to cater to trekkers, next morning early morning hike of few hours. As climb leads to the top of Panchase Hill for stunning sunrise views with a panorama of the world’s three highest peaks. 

Namely Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu Himal with an array of peaks as far as Ganesh Himal in the east direction. Panchase Hill with temples and Hindu shrines with a clam holy pool, where pilgrims take a bath and a dip. 

Explore around Panchase hilltop along with amazing views of peaks, and then down to Bhanjyang for breakfast or lunch. From Panchase Bhanjyang options for the return, journey either head downhill to Pame or take a bus ride to Pokhara.

To spend a few more days around the hills of Annapurna, walk to Bhaduare village and then to Naudanda. Where trail follows the scenic hill of Sarankot, a famous and popular place above Pokhara City and the valley. From Sarankot offers grand views of sunset and sunrise with an ever-present panorama of a Himalayan snow mountain range. Sarankot is a famous tourist spot as well for Paragliding take-off and Zip-Linear, a popular hill for adventure sports. From Sarankot spend an overnight and catch spectacular sunrise and views of the snow peak range.

Trek completes heading downhill to Phewa Lake, and then back to the hotel, after a marvelous time on Panchase Hill trekking.  

The Royal Trek

The name Royal Trek was coined due to Prince Charles of Wales, who trekked the high southern-east ridges of Annapurna Himalaya. Was in the late 1970s, and since then it was known as the Royal Trek, which is a moderate country walk.

The Royal Trek begins from Pokhara city taking a drive northeast to Bijayapur Khola (stream). The river walk leads uphill for an hour to the farm village at Kalikathan for overnight, staying in a simple lodge. 

The next morning faced the grand super panorama of Annapurna-Lamjung Himal and Manaslu mountain range with Machhapuchare Himal, the Fish-Tail peak. Includes views of Mt. Dhaulagiri range in the far north-west, from Kalikathan walk on a winding gradual path to Bahun Gaon. The village of Bahun Gaon inhabited by Hindu Bharamins and Chettries mid-hills tribes, walks heads further into a foretasted area. 

As climb leads on stone-paved steps with a gradual up to Syaklung Hilltop, a scenic hill. The highest spot of the trek is at 1, 730 m, a place with a lovely small village populated by Gurung. The indigenous mountain tribes of the Annapurna Himalayas offer a wide panorama of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu ranges. Next, early morning enjoy striking sunrise views over an array of snow peak ranges and then head downhill to Begnas Lake.

The walk is pleasant past Chisapani village with a view of Lake Rupa Tal, and then finally trek ends at Begnas Tal. A scenic Begnas Lake is located east of Pokhara at a mere distance of 25 km, with views of Annapurna Himalaya. From Begnas Lake a short drive back to Phewa Lake in Pokhara, after a wonderful short walk on Royal Trek.

The post Options for Trekking Around Annapurna Region appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Index

• About Mera Peak 6,461m/21,190ft
• Highlights of Mera Peak climbing
• Views from the Mera Peak summit
• About Island Peak 6,189m/20,305ft
• Highlights of Island Peak climbing
• Views from the Island Peak summit
• Similarities between Mera Peak and Island Peak
• Mera Peak difficulty VS. Island Peak difficulty
• Route of Mera Peak VS. Island Peak
• The best times to climb Mera Peak and Island Peak
• Permits for Mera Peak climbing
• Permits for Island Peak climbing
• Costs for Mera Peak and Island Peak climbing
• Conclusion

About Mera Peak 6,461m/21,190ft

Mera Peak, standing tall at 6,461m/21,190ft high, is without a doubt the highest climbable peak in Nepal! Located more south than Island Peak, Mera Peak is also the easier peak to climb. The route from Mera Base Camp (5,780m/18,963ft) to the summit is quite straight forward with fewer crevices to cross and less steep climbs. On the other hand, the trek to Mera Base Camp is a bit harder than the trek to Island Peak Base Camp. Mera Peak is distinguished by its three peaks, Mera North (6,476m/21,247ft), Mera South (6,065m/19,898ft) and Mera Central (6,461m/21,190ft). The latter, Mera Central is where the Mera Peak climbing trekking package takes you. It is also possible to organize a summit to Mera North, but it is the hardest peak to ascend and summit. The total days spent trekking and climbing Mera peak is 14 days, amongst one acclimatization day and one reserve day in case of bad weather. The total trip takes 18 days and has a special and guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu included as well. For more details have a look at High Route Adventure’s Mera Peak climbing package, and book today this amazing above 6,000m/19,865ft peak climbing package in Nepal!

Highlights of Mera Peak Climbing

One of the main differences between Island Peak VS. Mera Peak climbing in Nepal is the highlights. As the route to Mera Peak is completely different than Island Peak’s route. The main highlights of Mera Peak climbing in Nepal with High Route Adventure are listed below:

• Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
• An Exciting flight to and from Lukla
• Explore the Sagarmatha and Makalu Barun National Parks
• Discover the cultural attractions and practices of the Sherpa community
• Summit Mera Central Peak at 6,461m/21,190ft high
• Incredible views of Himalayan Mountains above 8,000m/26,247ft
• Cross a high-altitude mountain pass, the Zatrwa La Pass (4,600m/15,092ft)

Book today with High Route Adventure the Mera Peak climbing in Nepal package and experience the highlights of Mera Peak climbing first hand!

Views from the Mera Peak summit

If you are planning to summit Mera Peak in Nepal, you are definitely looking to get some extraordinary views of the Himalayas! As so, the views from the Mera Peak summit are absolutely breathtaking. Five of the world’s highest mountains can be seen in a 360° panoramic view, amongst others. High Route Adventure has listed out for you some of the mountain views from the Mera Peak summit with their respective heights, take a look;

• Mt Everest 8,848m/29,029ft
• Mt Kanchenjunga 8,586m/28,169ft
• Mt Lhotse 8,516m/27,940ft
• Mt Makalu 8,485m/27,838ft
• Mt Cho Oyu 8,188m/26,864ft
• Mt Lhotse Shar 8,382m/27,500ft
• Mt Gyachung Kang 7,952m/26,089ft
• Mt Nuptse 7,861m/25,791ft
• Mt Kanchungste 7,678m/25,190ft
• Mt Chamlang 7,321m/24,019ft

Amongst these giant mountains, there are of course many other views from the Mera Peak summit. Stand above the clouds, witness breathtaking 360° panoramic views, and have a real Himalayan experience with High Route Adventure’s Mera Peak climbing in Nepal!

About Island Peak 6,189m/20,305ft

Island Peak, one of the most popular peaks to climb in Nepal. Traditionally known as Imja Tse in the language of the Sherpa, Island Peak stands tall at a height of 6,189m/20,305ft and is about 300m/984ft smaller than Mera Peak 6,461m/21,190ft. Despite being smaller, to reach the summit of Island Peak you are in for a lot more adventurous and technical climbing trail! Many experienced mountaineers and peak climbers consider Island Peak as the perfect training grounds in order to summit Mt Everest 8,848m/29,029ft. Both have similar obstacles such as using ladders to cross-ice crevices, and the use of jumars attached to safety ropes. Tucked between the Nuptse/Lhotse south walls and the Baruntse’s north walls Imja Tse, really looks like a small island hidden between giants. High Route Adventure has made the perfect itinerary for you to summit Island Peak. The overall package of Island Peak takes 19 days with a guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu and a visit to Everest Base Camp before starting the climb up to Island Peak. In trek, you’ll spend 15 days whereof one day will be held to acclimatize and one day for pre-climb training at Island Peak Base Camp. If you want an adventurous beginner’s peak to climb in Nepal with breathtaking views, then have a look at High Route Adventure’s Island Peak climbing package!

Highlights of Island Peak climbing

The highlights of Island Peak climbing with High Route Adventure are something to look forward to! During the 19 days of your holiday, you can expect to see some of the best parts Kathmandu and the Khumbu/Everest region have to offer. Have a look below to see the main highlights of Island Peak climbing in Nepal with High Route Adventure;

• Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
• An Exciting flight to and from Lukla
• Visit iconic Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar
• Explore the Sagarmatha National Park
• Head to Everest Base Camp and view the Khumbu Glacier
• A scenic sunrise view over Mt Everest from Kalapatthar
• Summit Island Peak at 6,189m/20,305ft high
• Incredible views of Himalayan Mountains above 8,000m/26,247ft
• Cross a high-altitude mountain pass, the Kongma La Pass 5,550m/18,209ft

Discover the world of the Sherpa, and trek through the Himalayas up to Everest Base Camp before ascending to the summit of Island Peak at 6,189m/20,305ft. If you are looking forward to these highlights of Island Peak climbing, then don’t hesitate and have a look here to make your booking with High Route Adventure.

Views from the Island Peak summit

You can expect some of the best views from atop Island Peak summit. Including five of the highest mountains in the world and even more. While the climb is technical and can be challenging, the anticipation to see these mountain views from the Island Peak summit lets you take every step forward. High Route Adventure made a shortlist of some of the most prominent mountains and peaks you’ll see from atop the summit.

• Mt Lhotse 8,516m/27,940ft
• Mt Makalu 8,485m/27,838ft
• Mt Cho Oyu 8,188m/26,864ft
• Mt Nuptse 7,861m/25,791ft
• Peak 38/Santi Shikhar 7,590m/24,902ft
• Mt Bharuntse 7,162m/23,497ft
• Mt Amadalam 6,812m/22,349ft
• Mt Kangtega 6,782m/22,251ft
• Mt Num Ri 6,677m/21,906ft
• Mt Thamserku 6,632m/21,759ft
• Kongde Peak 6,187m/20,299ft

Ascend the summit of the legendary Island Peak with High Route Adventure, and see firsthand these mountains and peaks with a 360° panoramic view from the Island Peak summit. Prepare for a real Himalayan climbing experience and perhaps you’ll be ready to face Mt Everest for your next climb in Nepal!

Similarities between Mera Peak and Island Peak

When discussing Island Peak VS. Mera Peak climbing in Nepal, we can point out the differences but also the similarities between Mera Peak and Island Peak. High Route Adventure thought it best to make you see what you can expect to be similar between these two beginner peaks in Nepal and thus made a shortlist.

• Location: Everest/Khumbu region of Nepal
• Starting/End points: Lukla airport
• Mountain views from the summit: Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu, and Mt Cho Oyu
• Culture: Sherpa
• Type of Peak: Beginner trekking peak
• First ascend: 1953
• Type of accommodation: Teahouses
• Time to climb from BC to summit: Within a day
• Elevation range: Between 6,000m/19,685ft and 6,500m/21,326ft
• Technical skill required: None
• Days spend trekking: 14 days Mera Peak | 15 days Island Peak

Besides these few similarities, there are still quite a lot of differences making each peak unique in its own right. It’s important to understand what to expect if you need to choose between both the Island Peak climb and the Mera Peak climb.

Mera Peak difficulty VS. Island Peak difficulty

The biggest question is naturally; “The Mera Peak difficulty VS. Island Peak difficulty, which one is more difficult?” You’ll be surprised but despite being the smaller peak, Island Peak is the more difficult one. Often used as a training exercise before summiting Mt Everest, Island Peak is considered the most difficult peak to climb without the technical skills required in Nepal. The Mera Peak climb difficulty is easier as the route is straightforward on ice ridges leading gradually up to the summit. Besides the climb, the trek to the base camps of both Island Peak and Mera Peak is then again the opposite. Mera Peak wins the difficulty level on this one, while Island Peak base camp can be reached via the more known routes of the Everest base camp trek or even the Three High Passes Trek. The route to Mera Peak base camp is more strenuous and goes a bit of the beaten path. Keep in mind that both peaks are listed as beginner trekking peaks and while both have their own difficulties they are still considered doable for novice climbers.

Route of Mera Peak VS. Island Peak

Another interesting topic is the route of Mera Peak VS. Island Peak. Both routes go to completely different places and pass different villages. It is said that the route to the Mera Peak base camp is tougher than the one to the Island Peak base camp. High Route Adventure has made pre routes to Mera Peak and Island Peak. Carefully planned routes to let you enjoy and experience the best of each climb. Have a look below at each individual route starting and ending in Kathmandu.

Route of Mera Peak:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 02: Kathmandu sightseeing + climb preparation

Day 03: Fly to Lukla + trek to Paiya (Chutok) 2,730m/8,957ft

Day 04: Trek to Panggom 2,846m/9,337ft

Day 05: Trek to Ningsow 2,863m/9,393ft

Day 06: Trek to Chhatra Khola 2,800m/9,186ft

Day 07: Trek to Kothe 3,691m/12,110ft

Day 08: Trek to Thaknak 4,358m/14,298ft

Day 09: Trek to Khare 5,045m/16,552ft

Day 10: Khare: Acclimatization and pre-climb training

Day 11: Trek to Mera High Camp 5,780m/18,963ft

Day 12: Mera High Camp to Summit 6,461m/21,190ft + back to Khare 5,045m/16,552ft

Day 13: Reserve day for contingency

Day 14: Trek back to Kothe 3,691m/12,110ft

Day 15: Trek to Thuli Kharka 4,300m/14,108ft

Day 16: Trek back to Lukla via the Zatrwa La Pass 4,600m/15,092ft

Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu

Day 18: Final departure

Route of Island Peak:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 02: Kathmandu sightseeing + climb preparation

Day 03: Fly to Lukla + trek to Phakding 2,610m/8,563ft

Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar 3,440m/11,286ft

Day 05: Namche Bazaar acclimatization day

Day 06: Trek to Tengboche 3,880m/12,730ft

Day 07: Trek to Pheriche 4,200m/13,779ft

Day 09: Trek to Lobuche 4,910m/16,109ft

Day 10: Trek to Gorakshep 5,180m/16,995ft + visit Everest Base Camp 5,364m/17,600ft

Day 11:  Sunrise hike to Kala Pathar 5,545m/18,192ft + trek back to Lobuche 4,910m/16,109ft

Day 11: Trek to Chhukung 4,730m/15,518ft via the Kongma La Pass 5,550m/18,209ft

Day 12: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp 5,200m/17,060ft

Day 13: Pre-climb training on Island Peak Base Camp

Day 14: Ascend Island Peak summit 6,189m/20,305ft, + trek to Chhukung 4,730m/15,518ft

Day 15: Trek to Pangboche 3,985m/13,074ft

Day 16: Trek to Monjo 2,780m/9,121ft

Day 17: Trek back to Lukla 2,800m/9,186ft

Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu

Day 19: Final Departure

Comparing the route of Mera Peak VS. Island Peak you quickly notice that after Lukla the routes take completely different directions, and as you can imagine so does the experience. While Island Peak’s route takes a more traditional way via Everest Base Camp and the Kongma La Pass, Mera Peak’s route goes through some less familiar villages. Thus offering a more authentic experience.

The Best Times to Climb Mera Peak and Island Peak

As all treks and climbs in the Nepalese Himalayas, the best times to climb Mera Peak and Island Peak falls either in spring (from March until the end of May) or in the fall/autumn (September until the end of November) seasons. It is however possible to climb Mera Peak and Island Peak the whole year round with the exception of during Nepal’s monsoon season (from June until the beginning of September). If you are planning to see those legendary 360° panoramic views of the snowcapped Himalayas with clear blue skies. Then High Route Adventure strongly recommends booking during the spring or fall/autumn season as those are the best times to climb Mera Peak and Island Peak.

Permits for Mera Peak Climbing

Another difference when comparing Island Peak VS. Mera Peak climbing in Nepal is the types of permits you’ll require. As with all packages of High Route Adventure, when you book with us, all permits and taxes are included within the total price. You’ll need two types of permits in order to climb to the summit of Mera Peak. The first one is the Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, and the second one is the Mera Peak climbing permit. Depending on the season the cost of the climbing permit changes. During the spring and fall/autumn season, the price goes up, as it will be high season.

Permits for Island Peak climbing

Permits for Island Peak Climbing are exactly the same as for the Everest Base Camp trek plus you’ll need an Island Peak climbing permit as well. So that means three permits in total. You’ll need the Khumbu Rural Municipality permit, the Sagarmatha National Park permit, and the Island Peak climbing permit in order to climb to the summit of Island Peak. As with all of High Route Adventure’s treks and climbs all permits plus taxes are included in the price. This way you do not need to worry about anything, except to prepare for your climb to the summit!

Costs for Mera Peak and Island Peak climbing

The costs for Mera Peak and Island Peak climbing in Nepal also differ. Although not by much, Island Peak is a bit more expensive than Mera Peak. This is due to the more permits required and due to having an additional day. High Route Adventure, provides all-inclusive packages during the trek or climb with everything taken care of from meals, accommodations, guides, and porters.

The total cost for Island Peak climbing in Nepal for 19 days is 2,599$ USD per person, and the total cost for Mera Peak Climbing in Nepal for 18 days is 2,450$ USD per person. With this small difference of about 150$ USD choosing between either peak due to budget should not be a problem. If you plan to book Island Peak climbing or Mera Peak climbing have a look at our website’s climbing section found under “Climbing in Nepal”. For more questions regarding the costs of Mera Peak and Island Peak climbing, you can also inquire with our High Route Adventure Travel Team, 24/7 online available.

Final Say

With all this valuable information regarding Island Peak VS. Mera Peak climbing in Nepal, you are sure to make a choice without regrets. High Route Adventure hopes that this short guide will be helpful for you to understand the differences and similarities between Island Peak and Mera Peak. Keep in mind Island Peak is a bit more expensive, but leads deeper into the region, has more adventure, and also heads to Everest Base Camp. While Mera Peak, is easier going, a bit cheaper, but has more views from on top of the summit of 5 over 8,000m/26,247ft Himalayan Mountains and peaks. Book today either Island Peak or Mera Peak with High Route Adventure and get ready to climb above the clouds!

The post Island Peak VS. Mera Peak Climbing in Nepal appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Annapurna Region Best Short Trek

Considered to be one of the most beautiful and natural areas of Nepal, the Annapurna region offers some of the best short treks! In this area, the Annapurna Conservation Area, or in short ACA requires only one permit and is easily accessible. Check out High Route Adventure’s best short treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Mardi Himal Trek- 10 Days

The Mardi Himal short trek is one of the most rewarding short treks in the entire Annapurna region of Nepal. Taking place just east of the more famous Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal trek follows a newly opened route over mountain ridges towards the Upper View Point (4,500m/14,764ft). This viewpoint is just 2 hours away from Mardi Himal’s Base Camp and offers incredible views of the Annapurna Himalayas’ southern ridge. As one of the main highlights, the famous and iconic fishtail mountain, Mt Machhapuchhare (6,999m/22,963ft) comes closer with each step during the Mardi Himal trek.

Trek facts:

The highlights of the Mardi Himal trek:

As one of the 8 best short treks in Nepal, the Mardi Himal trek promises some amazing highlights. And this is just 6 days of light trekking! Have a look below why you should do the Mardi Himal short trek with High Route Adventure;

• A newly opened trekking trail within the Annapurna Conservation Are
• Incredible sights of the Annapurna massif including
  • Mt. Hiumchuli 6,441m/21,132ft
  • Mt. Mardi Himal 5,587m/18,330ft
  • Mt. Machhapuchhre 6,999m/22,963ft
• Superb natural trails leading through lush rhododendron, pine, and oak forests
• Traditional villages along the trail
• A unique experience
• Family-friendly and not age-limited
• Pokhara Lakeside City & Kathmandu

The itinerary of the Mardi Himal trek, as per High Route Adventure:

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/mardi-himal-trek/

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek- 9 Days

Known as the most popular short trek in the Annapurna region, and as a photographers’ paradise, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek in Nepal is a great choice if you want those incredible views! High Route Adventure has a short itinerary of only 5 days of trekking on an incredible trail. The main highlight of the trek is Poon Hill (3,200m/10,499ft), a viewpoint overlooking the southern Annapurna Range and a part of the Dhaulagiri range. You’ll get to see breathtaking views of both Mt Annapurna I (8,000m/26,247ft), Mt Dhaulagiri the 7th highest mountain in the world (8,167m/26,795ft), Mt. Machhapuchhare (6,999m/22,963ft), and Mt. Hiumchuli (6,441m/21,132ft). If that was not enough, the trek to Poon Hill gives you the chance to hike up to the viewpoint and witness an epic sunrise over the Annapurna Himalayas! Perhaps considered the number 1 best short trek in Nepal, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can be done the whole year round but is best done during spring or fall/autumn to get the best experience and views.

Trek facts:

The highlights of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

As the most popular short trek, the highlights of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek are something to look out for! Despite having only 5 trekking days, the trail to Ghorepani and Poon Hill is just filled with natural beauty and wonder. Here are some of the main highlights and reasons why you should choose the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek with High Route Adventure;

• The most popular short trek in Nepal
• See some of the best parts of the southern Annapurna Conservation Area
• Ideally combinable with other treks
• Amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges
• A breathtaking sunrise view from Poon Hill
• Learn about the Gurung and Magar people
• Visit Ghandruk and the Gurung museum
• Pokhara Lakeside City and Kathmandu
• Perfect for nature photographers
• Family-friendly and not age-limited

The itinerary of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, as per High Route Adventure

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/ghorepani-poon-hill-trek/

Khopra Ridge Trek- 11 Days

Probably the least known short trek in Nepal, the Khopra Ridge trek takes you up to Khair Lake (4,500m/14,674ft). The trail is considered off the beaten path as it goes through some virgin trails. Special about this short trek are the incredible vantage points, and of course those majestic views of the Himalayas! As the Khopra Ridge short trek runs close to popular trekking routes, it is easily accessible and even combinable with other treks in the Annapurna region. High Route Adventure organizes this special short trek within just 7 days of light trekking. Furthermore, the Khopra Ridge trek overlaps with the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, but in reverse. If you are looking for those special views, are short on time, and don’t want overcrowded trails. Then the Khopra Ridge short trek with High Route Adventure is the best choice for you!

Trek facts

The highlights of the Khopra Ridge Trek

As a less popular trekking trail, the Khopra Ridge short trek does have some amazing highlights to look forward to! Some say the views during the Khopra Ridge trek are even better than that of the more classical Poon Hill trek. Have a look below at our favorite highlights of the Khopra Ridge short trek;

• Kathmandu & Pokhara
• Trek off the beaten path
• Incredible views of Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Nilgiri, and the Annapurna peaks
• Reach Khair Lake at 4,500m/14,674ft
• Witness a breathtaking sunrise from Poon Hill at 3,200m/10,499ft
• Meet the local Gurung and Magar people
• Visit the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk
• Perfect for nature photographers
• Family-friendly and not age-limited
• Can be combined with other treks

The itinerary of the Khopra Ridge short trek, as per High Route Adventure:

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/khopra-ridge-trek/

Dhampus to Sarankot Trek- 7 Days

One of the most adventurous short and family-friendly treks in Nepal! The Dhampus to Sarankot short trek promises despite having only 3 days of light trekking an exciting experience. Dubbed as one of the best family one-week holidays in Nepal. High Route Adventure starts the Dhampus Sarankot trek off with a 2-hour rafting experience on one of Nepal’s most famous rivers, the river Trishuli. At your rafting exit, a vehicle is ready to drive you to Pokhara. This lakeside city has a lot of activities, charming lakeside BBQ restaurants, and monuments to enjoy. With a short drive to Phedi, we start the trek to Dhampus and ultimately Saragkot. This amazing hilltop community overlooks Pokhara and its mountain valley. If you want you can get up early and catch a sunrise view from the viewpoint! To head back down to Pokhara you can either trek or opt for paragliding down in style! Do note that paragliding is not included in our package and additional cost is required. But who doesn’t want to soar down like an eagle? And yes, eagles do fly around you while paragliding from Sarankot to Pokhara!

Trek facts

The highlights of the Dhampus to Sarankot short trek:

As one of the best family short treks in Nepal, the Dhampus to Sarankot short trek promises some great highlights! You’ll get to see Kathmandu and Pokhara city, raft on the Trishuli River, and see incredible Himalayan mountains and valley views. And all this in just 7 days! Have a look at the reason why and the main highlights of the Dhampus to Sarankot short trek.

• Kathmandu & Pokhara lakeside city
• Short rafting on the Trishuli River
• Enjoy incredible valley and mountain views
• See a sunrise view from Sarankot’s viewpoint
• (Optional paragliding in Pokhara)
• Family-friendly and no age restrictions
• A very short, easy, but rewarding trek

The itinerary of the Dhampus to Sarankot trek, as per High Route Adventure:

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/dhampus-sarangkot-trek/

Everest Region Best Short Trek

Who hasn’t heard of Mt. Everest? Located in Everest locally known as the Khumbu region of Nepal, the highest mountain in the world is surrounded by incredible trekking trails. Naturally, amongst these treks are also shorter treks that still offer excellent views! Here is our list of the Everest region’s best short treks with High Route Adventure.

Everest Short Trek- 8 Days

Ever wanted to see Mt Everest in real life, but can’t as most treks to Mt Everest take up a lot of budget and time? Well, High Route Adventure’s Everest short trek is the solution for you! With our carefully planned itinerary, we’ll guide you through the Everest region and back in just 5 days of trekking. You’ll enter the Sagarmatha National Park and visit iconic Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,287ft). Views of Mt. Amadablam (6,812m/22,349ft), Mt Everest (8,849m/29,032ft), and others can be seen during clear days during the Everest short trek. Furthermore, at the highest point of this short trek, we visit the Tengboche Monastery, one of the main Buddhist pilgrimage sites of the Khumbu region. Explore the Everest region of Nepal with the Everest short trek and experience the Himalayas with High Route Adventure!

Trek facts:

The highlights of the Everest short trek:

As a short version of the Everest Base Camp trek, the Everest short trek has equally half the highlights. But besides a visit to Everest Base Camp, the main highlights stay the same! Have a look below to see the main highlight of the Everest short trek and why

• A scenic 2-way flight to the world’s 38^th highest airport Lukla
• Experience the Everest Himalayas in just 5 days of trekking
• Visit traditional and cultural villages such as Phakding, and Namche Bazaar
• Enjoy some of the best views in a short time
• Meet with local Sherpa’s and visit the Sherpa Museum
• Follow a part of the same trail as Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay
• Family-friendly and no age restrictions

The Itinerary of the Everest short trek, as per High Route Adventure:

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/everest-short-trek/

Pikey Peak Trek- 9 Days

The best short trek in the lower Everest region is the Pikey Peak trek! Overlooked due to it being a short trek, the Pikey Peak trek has some of the best views of the Rolwaling and Everest Himalayan ranges! The trail goes uphill through lush forests home to the endangered Red Panda and traverses through Sherpa villages like Phaplu (2,470m/8,104ft) and Junbesi (2,700m/8,858ft). Here you’ll get to see the traditional lifestyles and culture of the Sherpa people, known as masters of the Himalayas! The main target is Pikey Peak (4,065m/13,337ft). An amazing hill, or a rather small peak with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and the lower Khumbu Valley. For the best experience we recommend you to wake up early and catch a sunrise view from on top of Pikey Peak, you won’t regret it! Head out on an adventure, discover a less crowded but rewarding trekking trail, and book today High Route Adventure’s Pikey Peak trek.

Short trek facts:

The highlights of the Pikey Peak trek:

This trek is one of a kind, and one of the 8 best short treks in Nepal offers some special highlights! From an amazing jungle/hill trail to traditional and cultural villages, here are some of the highlights of the Pikey Peak trek, and some reasons why you should choose the Pikey Peak trek for your short trek in Nepal with High Route Adventure;

• An adventurous drive from and to Kathmandu
• Visit traditional Sherpa villages Phaplu and Junbesi
• Enter a jungle trail filled with fauna and flora
• Family-friendly and any age can participate
• Viewpoint from Pikey Peak/sunrise view from Pikey Peak
• Amazing views during the entire trek

The itinerary of the Pikey Peak trek, as per High Route Adventure:

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/pikey-peak-trek/

Other Best Short Treks in Nepal

Besides the Annapurna and Everest regions, there are some other best short treks in Nepal that we feel are worth mentioning in this list of the 8 best short treks in Nepal. Both of these are easy to do and offer some rewarding views! Take a closer look at High Route Adventure’s other best short treks in Nepal and what they can offer you.

Chisopani to Nagarkot Short Trek- 5 Days

As the shortest and cheapest trek in this list, the Chisopani to Nagarkot trek does not require any long transportation or any type of permit. Starting from Kathmandu’s Sundarijal the Chisopani to Nagarkot trek begins with a light hike through the farmlands of Kathmandu and into the jungle forests of the Shivapuri National Park. The first overnight point is at the village of Chisopani. The village got its name due to the cold atmosphere that generates a part of the water supply for the Kathmandu valley. Chisopani means literally “cold water”. Continue on the next day we trek upwards to Nagarkot, a hill station with some incredible views of the Manaslu and Langtang Mountain Ranges, and the Ganesh and Jugal Himal! To make your experience worthwhile, you can choose to catch an incredible sunset and sunrise view from Nagarkot’s viewpoint! It doesn’t take long to trek back downwards and visit the Changunarayan Hindu Temple. From here a vehicle drives you back to Kathmandu to conclude the Chisopani to Nagarkot short trek with High Route Adventure.

Trek facts

The highlights of the Chisopani to Nagarkot short trek:

Despite being the shortest trek among these 8 best short treks in Nepal, the Chisopani to Nagarkot trek can be very rewarding! While the highlights of the Chisopani to Nagarkot trek are few they are special and definitely a reason why to do this short trek!

• A trekking experience in Nepal in just 5 days
• Trek through farmlands and jungle trails up and downhill
• Interact with local communities and their unique culture
• Incredible views from Nagarkot
• Sunset/sunrise views of the Manaslu and Langtang Mountain Ranges    
• Very family-friendly and with no age restrictions
• No permits required

The itinerary of the Chisopani to Nagarkot short trek, as per High Route Adventure:

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/chisapani-nagarkot-trek/

Langtang Valley Trek- 11 Days

Taking place just next to the Kathmandu Valley and to the Tibetan border is the Langtang Valley short trek. This amazing short trek in Nepal offers some of the most rewarding views and easy-going trekking trails. Perfect for families, groups, or even solo travelers the Langtang Valley short trek takes you through the Langtang Valley up to the Kyanjin Gompa at 3,830m/12,566ft. As a main highlight of the trek a climb up to Tsergo Ri (5,033m/16,513ft) rewards you with panoramic views of two over 7,000m/22,967ft mountains; the Langtang Lirung (7,227m/23,711ft) and the Langtang Ri (7,205m/23,639ft)! Besides the amazing mountain views, the Langtang Valley short trek has also a cultural part. Influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, the entire valley is filled with chortens, stupas, and monasteries. All awaiting your visit! High Route Adventure’s Langtang Valley short trek is specially designed to give the best experience in a short time of trekking.

Short trek facts:

The highlights of the Langtang Valley short trek:

If you are interested in what to expect or why to do the Langtang Valley short trek. We prepared some of the best highlights during the Langtang Valley short trek and things to look out for during the trek;

• Near to Kathmandu
• Incredible views of the Langtang and Dorje Lakpa mountain ranges
• Trek in the Langtang National Park (Nepal’s first Himalayan National Park)
• Visit famous landmarks such as the Kyanjin Gompa and Tsergo Ri
• Family-friendly and no age restrictions
• Can be done the whole year around but is best done during spring/fall (autumn)

The itinerary of the Langtang Valley short trek, as per High Route Adventure:

Direct booking link: https://highrouteadventure.com/trip/langtang-valley-trek/

Conclusion:

Now that you have a better idea of the 8 best short treks in Nepal, you can get ready for the trip of a lifetime with High Route Adventure. Of course, there are many more trekking or short hiking options in Kathmandu. But if you are looking for a short trek, then one of these 8 short treks is your best bet! If you have any more questions or want to book one of our short treks, please make use of our website and direct booking links. The Himalayas are just one step away, choose one of the 8 best short treks and get ready for a real Himalayan experience with High Route Adventure!

The post Top 8 Best Short Treks in Nepal appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Location

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area lies in the Taplejung district of eastern Nepal. This area touches the boundary line of Kanchendzonga National park of India at the northern side and Quomoloangma National Nature Preserve of Tibet in the southern part. Moreover, to the west, it touched the Sankhuwassabha District. The conservation area ranges from an altitude of 1200 m to 8583 m.

Climate

The climate varies depending upon its altitude. Monsoon season is the most experienced season in this region. Besides this, during the winter season, frequent snowfalls and low climatic temperatures can be experienced.

 Wildlife and Vegetation

Kanchenjunga conservation area includes more than 2000 species of the flowering plant out of which 23 species of the flowering plant are only endemic to Nepal. Furthermore, KCAP is the homeland of 82 species of insects, 5 species of fish, 6 species of amphibians,252 species of birds, and 22 species of mammals. Similarly, endangered species such as snow leopard, red panda, and vulnerable species like the clouded leopard, Himalayan black bear, Assamese macaque serow are found in this conservation area.

The local Population at the Buffer Zone

The protected areas lie in the Taplejung district. Tibeto- Burman ethnic groups such as Rai, Limbu, Tamang, Magar, Gurung, Jirel, Thakali, and Sherpa reside in this region. About 122,072 people reside in this district. Mainly, it is famous for the Sherpa communities.

Things to Do and Place to Visit

 You can do several activities in the Kanchenjunga conservation area such as:

• Peak Climbing
• Trekking
• Explore Yalung Glacier
• Snow leopard Tracking
• Red panda Tracking
• Trek to Timbu Pokhari

The post Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project appeared first on High Route Adventure.