The Top Five Treks in Nepal is a guest post written by Bishal Angbuhang.
(Cover image courtesy of Manoj Bohara www.manojbohara.com)
Nepal, a landlocked country sandwiched between two giants of Asia, India, and China. Despite the size of the country, Nepal is really huge when it comes to the natural and cultural diversity. The magnificent Himalayan range on the north is one of the greatest attractions. 8 of the 10 highest mountains lie in Nepal making Nepal the best place for mountaineering. The exotic topography, assorted landscapes, lush green tropical forest, alpine forest, high lands, rich biodiversity, etc. makes trekking in Nepal a lifetime experience.
Along with nature and its scenic beauty, one can experience the local lifestyle and culture of the Nepalese people along the trekking trails. Nepal offers all kind of trekking routes suited for all kind of people. One can choose to go for luxurious teahouse trekking or adventurous camping trekking. The trekking routes that entail remote areas are mostly camping trekking and strenuous ones with the trekking duration of 10-20 days.
If you are planning a trekking trip to Nepal then you should be ready that you will do more than just walking when you trek in Nepal. You will witness the most gorgeous mountain vistas, experience the beautiful landscapes, understand the lifestyle and culture of the local people, and make the best memories of your life.
Now, let’s talk about some of the famous trekking routes of Nepal. There are so many trekking routes, more than you can imagine but the following are the top 5 most popular ones:
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
This is one of the most exhilarating trekking in Nepal. Popularly known as ABC trek, an acronym for Annapurna Base Camp trek is famous among national and international trekkers. Splendid pinnacle such as Annapurna I and III, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, and many others surround this base camp. It is moderate level and is comfortable teahouse trek. With the highest altitude of 4,130m, during the trekking, you will walk through villages full of ethnic lifestyle and culture, amazing landscapes with amazing sceneries.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest mountain in the world that rises above the crack of the Kali Gandaki River in the western region of Nepal. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is off-beaten trek that is very challenging and adventurous, which is why it is important that you should have some prior trekking experience. The major attractions of this trekking are the two passes, Dhampus Pass (5,155m) and French Pass (5,240m). This strenuous trekking requires you to have some mountaineering experience and gears, as you will pass through ice and snow along with the remote ethnic and hidden valleys.
Everest Base Camp Trek
Climbing up to the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain is a dream for many people. You can make your dream come true to some extent by trekking up to the base camp. Everest Base Camp is one of the most popular treks with the stunning view of Mount Everest. You will go through the beautiful passes, remarkable valleys and Sagarmatha National Park. This is strenuous trekking with the maximum elevation of 5,550m at Kala Patthar. You will also get a chance to experience the Sherpa culture and lifestyle. Walking towards the highest mountain in the world will give you a lifetime experience.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the easiest treks in Nepal. Nevertheless, beautiful mountain scenes and lifestyle of ethnic people living in the region escort the trekking trail. Trekkers can witness the majestic beauty of great mountains like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna, Macchapucchre, and many more. The major attraction of this trek is the breathtaking view of the sunrise from Poon Hill at an altitude of 3,210m. Trekkers will pass through beautiful and dense subtropical forests, picturesque waterfalls, miraculous landscapes, and ethnic villages. If you are a beginner, you might want to start with this trek.
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most popular treks for both national and international trekkers. It is also called Royal Mustang Trek, as you will be trekking through Mustang, which used to be the Himalayan Kingdom also known as the Kingdom beyond the Himalayas. Hidden caves, barren landscapes, monasteries, Tibetan cultures, etc. are the major attractions of this trek. Trekkers will find them amidst different century in the Upper Mustang region. This is one fascinating trekking you should not miss.
Conclusion
Nepal offers abundant trekking trails fit for the beginners as well as the experienced ones. Depending on your trekking skills and experience, length of your holiday, budget, and preferences, you can choose where you want to go trekking. You will have a lifetime experience trekking in Nepal with a close encounter with natural and cultural aspects of Nepal.
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