Ever Since Harold William Tilman of Britain became the first
Westerner to be given permission to walk around the Nepal
Himalaya in 1949, Nepal has seen thousands follow in his footsteps
trying to capture the spirit of adventure and awe. Although
trekking in earnest began only in the mid-60s, the tales of
past travelers, like Tilman, was what attracted most people
to Nepal. And as these latter-day visitors have discovered,
those pioneering adventurers did have a keen sense for the
wonderful. Nepal trekking is very much known around the world
at the present time.
Trekking in Nepal is not simply a business of walking from
one stop to another heading towards a final destination. It
is more a gradual experiencing of Nepal's diversity in terms
of geography, of peoples, of religions, and of cultures.
All popular treks do inevitably lead to the Himalayas, but
the extent to which one wants to exert one self is completely
open. A trek can be a short one-day hike to a mountain-top
or a ridge to get spectacular views of the mountains, it can
be a three or four day excursion further north for a closer
look at the himalayan giants or it can be a month long walk
up and down mountain valleys in the shadows of the mighty
peaks. The most famous of the treks in Nepal are concentrated
in the
Everest, the
Annapurna
and the Langtang regions.
Why Trekking in Nepal?
To begin with, there is the physical purification
of pushing your body, really using it. It is a delight to
walk, simply walk, through some of the most bewitching countryside
in the world. You become acquainted with your body in a way
few modern people experience. Trekking doesn't take tremendous
exertion, just basic fitness and a some stamina which is as
much a matter of attitude as it is of physical ability. You
willing to walk in the rugged mountains six to ten hours a
day; there is no getting around that.
Cleaning out the body seems to clean out the mind as well,
as you begin delight more in the simple present rather than
dwelling in the past or future. Trekking involves walking
over long periods of time; that rarest of commodities in the
modern world-and with time to do nothing but walk, perspective
starts to take hold. All this is to say nothing of the country
you're walking through; some of the most spectacular vistas
in the world, inhabited by a tremendous range of fascinating
peoples. Many trekkers find the reality of traditional life
to be more memorable than the mountain views.
In its immensely diverse and undulating topography, varied
climate and mix of people Nepal combines to produce a magical
attraction for outsiders. Many foreign visitors come to
trek one or more beautiful trekking regions. To
trek, one does not have to be bizarre, neither a mountaineer
nor a athlete. Anyone with a pair of strong legs, and the
spirit for adventure to explore the exotic, will enjoy the
thrills of trekking in the hills of Nepal. Walking
in the interior of the country follows ancient foot trails
which meander through the scenic river banks, intricately
terraced fields and the forested ridges connecting picturesque
hamlets and mountain villages. These highly developed and
well defined trails have been used for centuries and are
the hive of activities to come in contact with the locals.
For visitors on extended holiday and with less restraints,
there is an even more varied spectrum of adventure - be
it rafting on the sparkling rivers, safaris in the jungles,
trekking to explore deeper into the alpine valley with perpetual
snow and glistening glaciers. The more intrepid traveller
may venture further up to scale any of the 18 minor trekking
peaks.
NEPAL POPULAR TREKKING REGIONS
EVEREST: Everest or Sagarmatha as
the King of the Great Himalayas, the Everest Region is hard
to beat for high mountain scenery. Three of the world's
ten highest peaks guard this holy sanctuary. The Sherpas
settled in the Khumbu highlands some 450 years ago bringing
Tibetan Buddhism in the form of ornate monasteries, carved
prayer Mani stones and a never-ending joy of life. Some
moved lower to Solu, a land rich in resources and of temperate
climate. The annual Mani Rimdu festival at Tyangboche (usually
during the months of November) and at other monasteries
enact ritual dance dramas of good verses evil.
EVEREST BASE CAMP: Many an armchair mountaineer
dreams of standing at Everest Base Camp. Make that dream
come true. It isn't technically difficult but must be taken
with care due to the elevation. Fly into Lukla from Kathmandu
and the trek starts from here to the Base Camp (5,357 m./17,570
ft.). An optional hike up Kala Patthar (5,545 m./18,188
ft.) gives a stunning look at the Everest and the Khumbu
Glacier. All trekkers do routinely reach, if not the Base
Camp, at least Kala Patthar, which provides the closest
view of Everest possible without actually doing any actual
climbing. Short forays of Gokyo, Thame and Chhukung are
equally rewarding for the spectacular views of the highest
mountains of the world, including Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu.
ANNAPURNA: Annapurna is the most popular
trekking region in Nepal, offering tremendous views on mountain
heights, a mosaic of cultures and religions, and a rich
variety of flora and fauna.
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT: Presents an excellent
cross section of Nepal. You will literally circle the Annapurna
Massif, passing from 500 m./1640 ft. to 5,400 m./17,712
ft. at Thorang La and back down. Major peaks visible are
Annapurna I, II, III and IV, Macchapuchhre (Fish-Tail),
Dhaulagiri and Manaslu. Peoples change along with the landscape.
Brahmans and Chhetris in the low lands, Gurungs and Magars
at the mid hills and hardy Manangis and Thakalis in the
narrow Kali Gandaki Valley from Jomsom, soaking in hot springs
at the Tatopani and exit via Ghorepani and Pokhara.
TREKKING SEASON for Nepal Trekking
Trekking in Nepal can be undertaken throughout the year. There
are four seasons in Nepal. Each season has its distinct attractions
to offer. The seasons are classified as follows :
Autumn (Sept-Nov): This season offers excellent weather
and tantalizing mountain views.
Winter (Dec-Feb): This season is noted for occasional
snowfall only at higher elevations. Hence it is ideal for trekking
at lower elevations, generally below 3000 meters, if well equipped.
Spring (March-May): Different varieties of wild flowers,
specially the rhododendrons make the hillside above 5000 meters a colourful
paradise during this season. It is warm at lower elevations and cool
at higher elevation over 4000 meters the mountain views are excellent
and temperature is quite moderate.
Summer Monsoon (Jun-Sept): Summer monsoon season starts
around mid-June and continues up to mid September making travel wet
and warm. Mountain views are generally obscure at this time but is
blessed with rewards for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and
meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Certain areas of
Nepal like Mustang, Upper Dolpo and Humla, being in the rain-shadow
areas behind the main Himalayan range, remain dry, clear and cool thus
presenting very pleasant trekking. It is recommended to carry insect
repellent when trekking during summer months.
FITNESS
All trekking in Nepal demands a level of fitness that will
enable one to put a good day's walking, up and down hill.
Once over 3000m/9840ft care should be taken not to gain
more than 500m/1640ft in one day. There should be plenty
of time during the day to cover this distance, so the physical
exertion though quite strenuous at times, is not sustained.
The best preparation for trekking is cycling, swimming,
jogging, squash, tennis and long walks involving up and
down hill. Good physical conditioning will probably help
for the maximum enjoyment of the treks.
MEDICAL MATTERS & ADVICE
Trekking in Nepal need to be considered risky affair as
far as your health is concerned. Nevertheless preventive
measures such as a thorough medical check up and inoculations
before you start trekking can save you form unexpected hazards.
Since modern medical facilities and rescue & evacuation
may not be readily available in the remote regions of Nepal
it is essential for take along a comprehensive First Aid
Box consisting of basic drugs and accessories. Various trekking
guide-books and pamphlets published by the Himalayan Rescue
Association gives you detailed information on complete list
of medical supplies. These guide-books are easily available
in the bookshops in Kathmandu. In case of serious illness
or injury, prompt evacuation to Kathmandu is the best remedy.
Modern dentistry is unknown in the hills of Nepal, so it
is advised to have a checkup before departure from home.
Tooth fillings sometimes loosen in cold temperatures and
at high altitudes, so it is recommended to have them checked.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS while trekking in Nepal
Altitude Sickness, often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is
a particularly important medical consideration while trekking in high
altitudes in Nepal (or elsewhere).
Altitude Sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend
too rapidly to elevations above 3,000 meters. The initial symptoms
of AMS are following :
• Nausea, vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia/ Sleeplessness
• Persistent headache
• Dizziness, light headedness, confusion
• disorientation, drunken gait
• Weakness, fatigue, lassitude, heavy legs
• Slight swelling of hands and face
• Breathlessness and Breathing irregularity
• Reduced urine output
These symptoms are to be taken very seriously. In case of appearance
of any of the above symptoms any further ascent should be reconsidered;
otherwise more serious problems can occur which can even cause death
sometimes within a few hours, the only cure for the Altitude Sickness
is to descend to a lower elevations immediately. Acclimatization by
ascending to no more than (300m/984ft) to (500m/1640ft) per day above
(3000m/9840ft) and the proper amount of rest are the best methods for
prevention of AMS.
Literatures and pamphlet published by Himalayan Rescue Association
consists of detailed information on AMS. The Central Immigration Office
and all trekking agencies in Kathmandu distribute this pamphlet free
of cost. Since these documents also give information on the list of
suggested medical supplies for trekkers it is a compulsory item of
every trekker' medical kit.
LIST OF CLOTHING EQUIPMENT for Nepal trekking:
• Walking boots. If new one is being bought, "walk
them in" to avoid blisters. Also bring spare laces.
• A pair of track shoes to wear in the camp at night or
when the boot is wet.
• Warm jacket. Fiber fill or down should be adequate, especially
necessary during winter from December to February.
• A rainproof jacket with hood or a poncho. Get the one
that is guaranteed waterproof.
• Woolen shirts and thick sweaters. During winter months,
December through February, these items are essential. Thick
sweaters can be purchased in Kathmandu.
• A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers. Jeans are
unsuitable to wear on treks
• Cheap loose cotton pants are available in Kathmandu. Heavyweight
trousers are useful higher up in the mountains in the morning
and at night.
• Windproof/waterproof trousers. Necessity on all treks
going above 10,000 ft.
• Thermal underwear. These are excellent to sleep in at
night. In the winter months thermal underwear are quite
invaluable.
• A tracksuit useful for wearing in camp and in the tent.
• 1-2 pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts.
• 2-4 cotton T-shirts.
• 1 lightweight long sleeved-shirt is particularly suitable
for avoiding sun burn.
• A woolen hat to wear in the morning and at night. During
winter it is an essential item.
• A sun hat. Ensure it has a wide brim to protect the face
and neck.
• A pair of gloves. Leather with lining and woolen are best.
• 1 pair of sandals to wear in the cities and in camp.
• 2 pairs of thin and 2 pairs of thick woolen socks.
• Underwear
• swimming costume
• Bandana/handkerchief.
EQUIPMENT
• Duffel bag or kit bag to carry to gear while
trekking.
• Day pack. This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement
for the day e.g., toilet items, camera, film, towel, soap,
a boot etc.
• Water bottle.
• Snow glasses and sunglasses.
• 2-4 large plastic bags to separate clean clothes from
dirty ones. 6-10 smaller plastic bags to dispose garbage.
• wallet and/or money belt with compartment for coins.
• Toiletries with large and small towels. Toilet paper can
be buy in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
• Small headlamp and/or torch with spare batteries and bulbs,
candles and lighter to burn toilet paper.
• Snow gaiters essential during winter and all treks going
over 3000m
• An umbrella (optional ), suitable as walking stick, to
use as sunshade and useful when it rains and is quite useful
to ward of dogs,.
• Reading materials, camera and film, game, items (optional),
note book, rubber band, pen and pencil envelopes, a diary,
a calendar, a pocket knife, binoculars (optional), small
pillow or headrest (optional), Thermarest (optional) - an
inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities
of passport photographs.
• Personal medical supplies.
NOTE:
Full Pre-Departure Information will be sent once the trek/tour
or any other travel arrangements are confirmed.
