Muktinath Temple

Muktinath Temple is the holiest of all pilgrimage sites, especially for the Hindu followers. Thousands of devotees and pilgrims visit all seasons of the year despite the high altitude, cold weather, and dry barren landscapes.

Muktinath Temple is 3,800 m, or 12,467 feet high, in Mustang and Nepal Far North West. It is close to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalaya and close to the neighboring district of Manang, bounded by the high Thorang-La Pass. Muktinath, its name, comes from the ancient Sanskrit language, which means ‘Liberation’ or to be free from sin or life cycle. It is also known as Mukti Kshetra, which translates to the ‘place of liberation’ or moksha.

Tea House Lodge
Tea House Lodge

Muktinath temple is a site with 106th among the available 108 Divya Desam (premium temples). According to the ancient Hinde Puran or epics, the country faces charming scenery of the Nilgiri peaks. As well as the stunning view of the massive Dhaulagiri Himal and Tukuche peaks with the mountains of Upper Mustang.

Muktinath Temple stands above the village of Pani Pawa, where all lodges and guest houses are by the motorable road. Muktinath Temple also falls on the famous and popular Annapurna Circuit trekking route to Manang via the high Thorang La Pass. It is about a two-hour drive from Jomsom, the main town and headquarters of the Mustang district. Approx. 18 km/11 miles from the village of Rani-Pawa and Muktinath to Jomsom Town.

Travelers can either hike to Muktinath from Jomsom after reaching by a short flight from Pokhara city or by overland journey.

Some pilgrims and travelers enjoy riding horses to reach Muktinath Temple premises. Once inside the serene location of the Muktinath main compound. To reach the temple, a walk for half an hour from the lodge at Pani Pawa village and the roadside.

To reach the Muktinath Temple from the village lodge, a short climb leads on stone steps to the main entrance gate. Located, south of the temple premises. Inside the temple premises, walk through a small garden with a few trees of junipers and willows. Then enters across a huge Buddhist Prayer Wheels and a small monastery. A walk for a few minutes to enter the main temple with the ancient 108 water spouts.

The water originates from the natural spring, considered holy, here people bathe on each spout with cold water. Then walk to the main temple for prayer and worship and get blessed by the Hindu priest. Inside the temple stands a statue of God Muktinath or the Lord Vishnu in various forms and manifestations.

Seasons For Muktinath Tempe:

To visit Muktinath Temple for all seasons, except in the monsoon times of summer. From mid-June to August, it can be wet with rain, but with green surroundings, the flight to Jomsom can get delayed and canceled. Due to heavy monsoon clouds, en route to Jomsom from Pokhara.

The road might get obstructed by frequent landslides and rock falls during the monsoon.  The best times are spring and autumn, including the winter, despite the cold temperatures. Spring from March to May with longer sunlight hours to cover long distances on time before dusk.

The afternoon can be windy around Kaligandaki River Valley between Muktinath and Jomsom. In spring, with cold morning, late afternoon, and shade as well the nighttime. Expect light snowfall sometimes during the springtime. The next best season is autumn/fall from September and lasts till November, one of the best times, around the Himalayas. Most days are fine with clear blue sky for views and to visit Muktinath Temple. But days are short due to limited sunshine hours, and it gets dark from 5:30 p.m. The sunrise is late at 6 a.m. The afternoon can get cloudy sometimes, with chances of snowfall also. Morning, late afternoon, and night are much colder,
but with a clear starry sky during the nighttime.

Muktinath can be visited during winter time from December to February, although it is the coldest season. But with bright sunny days, it gets dark soon with limited sunshine hours and freezing temperatures during morning and night. The Hindu pilgrims visit Muktinath Temple mostly during the auspicious time, as per the Hindu Lunar calendar. The full moon time is considered the auspicious time for worship and religious rites.

The History Of The Muktinath Temple:

The history with religious significance is regarded as sacred by the Sri Vaishnava sect and is the ancient name in Sri Vaishnava literature. From the 10th century, Buddhism was established in 568 BCE (Before Christ emerged). The origin of the holy site is ‘Thiru Saligramam’. Shaligram is known to be the naturally available form of Sriman. Buddhists call it Chumig Gyantse, of Tibetan origin language, which means “Hundred Waters”. For Tibetan Buddhists, Muktinath is a sacred place for the Dakinis. A form of goddesses known as the Sky Dancers, it is one of the 24 Tantric places for early Bon religion pre-Buddhist sects. The belief is that the Idol created in Muktinath is a manifestation of the saint Avalokitesvara, who embodies the compassion of all Buddhahood.
Muktinath history and purity date back to an antiquity of 2,300 years. Both Hindus and Buddhists visit on a holy pilgrimage mission to this sight of natural wonders and powers. Along the way around the Kaligandaki River Valley, pilgrims search for the black glossy fossils.

It is called the Shaligram (ammonite), found in abundance around the banks of Kaligandaki River. Shaligram is associated with Muktinath Temple, the small rounded rocks, but when split open into two parts.
It reveals the imprint of ammonites formed nearly 140 million years ago. Due to the wheel-like shape of a slug, the Shaligram is closely related to the Hindu God Vishnu.

Religion & Importnace:

The temple of Muktinath and its 108 water spouts are also the source of the Kaligandaki River. For the Hindus and Buddhists, the Himalayas are the abodes of holy spirits, God and Goddesses. Most holy pilgrimage sites are around the hidden corners of the massif Himalayan ranges. Muktinath is one of the most important sites for pilgrimage, a place to attain Nirvana. As well as to relinquish and liberate the sins of a hundred lifetimes.

Muktinath, the name comes from Sanskrit, it means ‘Salvation or Liberty’ from birth cycles or bad / evil. It is one of the hidden sacred spots that pilgrims from Nepal and India visit every year in great numbers. Despite the high altitude and Himalayan cold temperatures, visitors can expect snowfall most of the seasons.

At Muktinath Temple and around its holy sites, natural elements are displayed in miraculous form-flickering blue flames. It originates from its natural source of the natural methane gas, which burns on water, stone, and earth. The offering is believed to have been first lit by the Lord Brahma, the Hindu creator of the Universe.

Why The Muktinath Temple A Popular Holy Site In Nepal:

For various reasons, Muktinath Temple is revered as a popular and holy site in Nepal. As well as in the whole Himalayan ranges, that stretch from Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Nepal, Bhutan including Tibet, China. Then, it ends in Eastern parts of India around Arunchal Pradesh, close to Myanmar. But most pilgrimage sites are located around Northern India and in Nepal as well in Tibet, China with Mt. Kailash.

Nepal has several holy sites around the high Himalayas, besides Muktinath. The other pilgrimage sites are Damodar Kund and Gosainkunda including Tilicho Lake as well as many other hidden places, of which only a few devotees and pilgrims are aware.

Muktinath Temple is popular during early times, due to its accessibility from Manang, and Pokhara city. As Muktinath is located close en route to the famous Trans Himalayan Trade Routes of Nepal and Tibet, China. Where travelers can enjoy visiting both paying homage to Muktinath Temple en route to their journeys. The main reason is that it is also close to Tilicho Lake and Damodar Kunda, regarded as sacred sites.

Last but not least the areas of Muktinath, situated close to Kagbeni Village and Kaligandaki River Valley. Kagbeni is a Tibetan-style village with a similar culture, located on the ancient Caravan trade route of Nepal and Tibet. Kagbeni is the entrance to Upper Mustang and beyond to Tibet, China borders. Kagbeni means “bolt of the two rivers” and formerly controlled the trade between Nepal & Tibet, once a fortified village. Kagbeni is en route to Muktinath about a few hours hike uphill, the area of Kagbeni is also a holy place. Where Hindus perform their religious rites, perform and offer prayers in memories of the families-relatives and friends departed souls.

Kagbeni in the Hindu Myth story describes the earlier life of Kak Bhushundi, who was a true devotee of Lord Shiva. Reborn as a crow, and came to know about Rama and understood the purpose of Lord Vishnu’s incarnation. Among humans and then composed the great epic Ramayana, the sage-crow came to be as Kak-Bhushundi.

This is why Muktinath Temple is a famous and popular site around the whole Himalayan region. Its past historical stories, fable, and mythological tales make Muktinath an important pilgrimage site. Especially for the Hindu followers, devotees, and pilgrims, at present people can reach by motorable road. As well as flying to Jomsom, with a few hours’ drive to the holy site of Muktinath or Mukti-Chetra.

Accommodation Local Residence Around Muktinath:

The Muktinath Temple stands high above the nearby Rani Pawa Village within the district of Mustang. It is about 2 hours drive from Jomsom, the headquarters town of the district and the gateway to Muktinath. All lodges, restaurants, shops, and stores are in Rani Pawa Village.

Walk in less than half an hour to reach Muktinath from the lodge of Rani Pawa. The village has many good lodges, as it also falls on the main popular Annapurna Circuit trekking routes. During the high times of trekking, this village gets more customers, including pilgrims from Nepal and India. In auspicious times, as per the Hindu calendar, the place is flooded with pilgrims of both Hindu and Buddhist religions.

Rani Pawa Village is on a motorable road with a car park, mostly with a 4WD Jeep or similar available. The lodges are of tourist standard with hotels and guest houses, offering rooms with common or attached toilets and baths. All lodges provide a comprehensive food menu, which is served in a large dining room with Wi-Fi and electricity. The natives of Mustang are of Tibetan origin and follow strong Tibetan Buddhism and similar cultures to their predecessors across the borders. The local people are farmers, raising livestock, trading with Tibet, and running hotels, shops, and restaurants.

Popular Base Camps Trekking Around Nepal Himalayas

Popular Base Camp Trekking in Nepal is the foremost country on this planet for all types of adventures and outdoor sports. Interested adventurers, trekkers, and explorers can enjoy the walks from the popular routes to off-the-beaten trails. Where some of the base camps are well hidden from the main trekking trails within absolute wilderness.

Amazing view near the Annapurna base camp
Amazing view near the Annapurna base camp

The country with great dramatic contrast and diversity from the low warm sub-tropical of the Terai belt to cooler alpine hills. Which extends towards a higher mountain range and ends at the arctic zone of snow, ice, and glaciers of the great Himalayas. From the 14th world’s highest peaks, Nepal with the most of 8th highest mountain within the Himalayas. The Himalayan Mountain range stretches from the Far East to the West of the country.

The popular base camp trekking Includes Mt. Everest 8,848.86 m, Mt. Kanchenjunga 8,586 m and Lhotse 8,516 m with Mt. Makalu 8,463 m. The list continues with Mt. Cho Oyu 8,201, Mt. Dhaulagiri 8,167 m, and Mt. Manaslu 8,163 m. The last on the list is Mt. Annapurna-I 8,091 m, the 10th highest and Nepal’s most popular base camp. Besides major world highest peaks base camps, there are other popular base camps below 8,000 meters. Like the famous Ama Dablam, Ganesh, Langtang, and Jugal Himal Base Camps above and under 7,000 meters.
The most popular base camps trek are Everest, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. The Manaslu and Cho Oyu base camps are off the main routes, trekkers seldom visit except for the mountaineers.

Some major mountains have two base camps, like Kanchenjunga and Annapurna where trekkers can visit in one single journey. Especially on Kanchenjunga, the world’s 3rd highest, the treks include both Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camps. The other interesting to know is that Everest and Lhotse share, the same base camps.

List Of Popular Base Camp Trekking:

01: Annapurna Base Camp:

Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp

The shortest and most scenic Annapurna base camp, often referred to as ABC for short. It is a picturesque spot, unlike all the Himalayan region base camps, due to its proximity. Start and end points of trekking from the nearest motorable road to and from Pokhara.

Trekkers can cover the whole trek from Pokhara to Pokhara within a week. The best about the Annapurna Base Camp is that the trekkers do not have problems with HAS or High Altitude Sickness.

The elevation gains with slow and gradual paces to the highest point at Annapurna Base Camp. It is 4,130 m/13,550 feet, located beneath the towering east face of Mt. Annapurna-I. It is the only base camp around the Himalayas, where trekkers can enjoy the comfort of nice and cozy lodge accommodations.

Annapurna-I is the world’s tenth-highest peak and a massive range of mountain range. It extends as far as Manaslu Himalaya in the east and Mt. Dhaulagiri towards the west.

The Annapurna Base Camp is in the heart of the Sanctuary, around Kaski District and Gandaki Zone, Mid-West Nepal. Mt. Annapurna-I was the first 8,000-meter peak ever climbed in mountaineering history, on June 03rd, 1950. By the French Expeditions, three years before Mt. Everest was summited, on May 29th, 1953. Around the Annapurna Himalayan region and Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers need TIMS (Trekking Information Management Systems) permits.

As well as ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project), entrance fees are obtained by the local trekking agencies in Kathmandu.

02: Everest Base Camp:

Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp

Everest base camp lies beneath the world’s number one Mt. Everest. Everest base camp is the most famous and popular of all the base camps around the Himalayan ranges. It is one of the favorite destinations among all trekkers and mountaineers, a dream destination for millions of travelers and adventurers.

Everest Base Camp is located in the Khumbu district around Nepal North Mid-East, with various routes to reach Everest base camp. The earliest and classic route to Everest base camp was from Jiri, also known as Switzerland of Nepal.

It was the original route to high Khumbu through Solo areas to reach Namche Bazaar and then to Everest Base Camp. Since the airport was built in Lukla, for STOL aircraft the classic trail of Jiri is almost forgotten at present. Most trekkers prefer the shortest way taking the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Town airport.
Then following the scenic trail towards Everest base camp, it takes about 12 days from Lukla to Lukla. Covering a distance of approx. 130 km or 81 miles, exploring the lovely villages of Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and beautiful Tengboche.

Everest Base Camp Trekking, where all visitors need time to get acclimatized, having extra days at certain heights. As well as to enjoy the surrounding stunning scenery of landscapes and snow-capped peaks.
The route to Everest Base Camp is well maintained with a straightforward route, as well as crossing bridges over glacial rivers. The Everest and high Khumbu region is located within Sagarmatha National Park, the name Sagarmatha for Everest in Nepal. The native Sherpa calls Chomolungma for Everest, from Tibetan origin language. For the trek to Everest Base Camp, the permits are controlled by the Khumbu village community. Includes entrance fee for Sagarmatha National Park, at Lukla or Monjo or from the park entrance post.
The trek to Everest Base Camp follows on winding scenic trail with constant views of giant snow-capped peaks. From Namche Bazaar onwards views of Mt. Everest are seen most of the time during the walks. Until Everest base camp is reached, where you will stand beneath the towering peaks of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. As well with close views of Khumbu Ice Fall and the glaciers, the base camp is flooded with tented camps. During the peak mountaineering season of spring from March to May, with various camps of different nationalities mountaineering expeditions.

Everest base camp at 5,364 m / 17,599 feet high, the views of Mt. Everest are obstructed by adjoining peaks. For the best closest views of Mt. Everest and surrounding mountains climb up to the high Kalapathar rocky hilltop.

Kalapathar is a high black rocky ridge, close en route to Everest base camp and above Gorakshep.  The highest points of the adventure, at 5,643 m /18,514 feet, offer a spectacular panorama of giant snow peaks. The closest views of Mt. Everest at a mere distance with incredible scenery of towering mountain ranges.

After completing the adventure to Everest base camp and climb of Kalapathar, heading back to Lukla. Then, on a short sweeping flight to Kathmandu, with unparalleled views of the Himalayan peaks.

03: Kanchenjunga Base Camp:

Mt. Kanchenjunga is the world’s 3rd highest peak with a massive range, located in Far Eastern Nepal. Around the district of Taplejung, one of the less visited base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Due to its remote locations and lack of good accommodation and food facilities, then on other popular base camp treks.

Despite the remote country of Kanchenjunga areas, it is one of the most interesting and exciting adventures to experience. Mt. Kanchenjunga the original name is Kanchendzonga, which means mountains with five jewels, referring to its five adjoining peaks. Mt. Kanchenjunga at 8,586 m/ 28,169 feet high, first ascent to the summit of Mt. Kanchenjunga on May 25th, 1955.

Climbed by the British Expeditions, since then the mountain is often climbed by various nationalities mountaineers.
Kanchenjunga with two base camps the North and South Base Camps.

The North Base Camp is higher at 5,150 m/16,896 feet, located at the small settlement of Lhonak and Pang-Pema.
The trek to Kanchenjunga is a full circuit visiting both base camps the south and the north. Where South Base Camp is popular among the mountaineers, due to its accessible route to the summit.

Most mountaineers use the original route for the climb from South Base Camp at Oktang. The treks to Kanchenjunga both base camps, is an adventure of a three-week duration. It involves flights both ways with drives on the hilly rough road to the starting point of the treks. As well as on the way back, on completing the whole Kanchenjunga circuit, trekking to both base camps.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is an adventurous walk from mid-hill farm villages to dense lovely forest. Covered in tall rhododendrons, magnolia, oaks, pine, and fir trees, then reaching the arctic zone amidst snow, ice, and glaciers.

A remarkable adventure, where trekkers can enjoy the pristine wilderness, in less visited areas by the main flow of trekkers.

04: Lhotse Base Camp:

Lobuche Base Camp
Lobuche Base Camp

Mt. Lhotse is the world’s 4th highest peak at 8,516 m/27,940 feet. Mt. Lhotse, might not be a famous and popular peak, among the trekkers and mountaineers. But most trekkers are unaware that Mt. Lhotse shares the same base camp as Mt. Everest.

Mt. Lhotse is the adjoining peak of Mt. Everest, it is separated by the South Col. When visiting the Everest base camp, you will be standing at the base of Everest and Lhotse as well.

05: Makalu Base Camp:

Makalu Base Camp is in the district of Sankha Sabha, of Koshi Zone in Nepal Far East, around the Khumbukarna Himalayan range. Mt. Makalu is the world’s 5th highest peak at 8,463 m/27,766 feet high.

The first ascent was on May 15th, 1955, by the French Expeditions, and since then, often visited by mountaineers.
Makalu Base Camp, at 4,870 m/15,978 feet high at the western end of Barun Valley. The trek to Makalu Base Camp involves flights and drives from Tumlingtar to Tumlingtar, a moderate town.

It is the start and ending points of Makalu Base Camp Trekking after flying in from Kathmandu. Then, on the drive for a few hours to the Num Village, the trek leads to several farm villages. From the last Tashi-Gaon village, there are no permanent villages except temporary settlements. The lodges are small and very simple en route to Makalu Base Camp.

Barun Valley and Makalu Base Camp are less ventured by the mass flow of trekkers. Due to its remote location, it leads to a perfect country walk around the mountain wilderness. An adventure starts from low sub-tropical areas to a cooler alpine hill covered in dense pine and rhododendrons forest.

The walk follows to traverse and crossing the small pass of Keke, Shipton, and Tutu-La. The views of the snow-capped mountain remain constant as the walk reaches Makalu Base Camp.

At Makalu Base Camp, stand amidst remorseless fields of moraines filled with ice, snow, and glaciers. Makalu Base Camp is famous for its views of the rare Khansung or East Face of Mt. Everest.

Makalu Base Camps is protected by the Makalu and Barun National Park and Conservation. Makalu Base Camp Trek is of a two-week duration with drives and flights from Num to Tumlingtar and towards Kathmandu.

06: Cho Oyu Base Camp:

Cho Oyu Base Camp
Cho Oyu Base Camp

Mt. Cho Oyu, the world’s 6th highest peak, like Everest, straddles the borders between Nepal and Tibet-China. Mt. Cho Oyu towers high at 8,201 m/26,906 feet and most of the climb is done from Tibet.

The North side of Mt. Cho Oyu is much more accessible to reach the summit than from Nepal. Which is tough, difficult, and technical from Nepal, situated around the high Khumbu at the far end of Gokyo Valley. Mt. Cho Oyu was climbed on October 19th, 1954 from Tibet by the Austrian Expeditions.

Cho Oyu Base Camp in Nepal side is the least visited by mountaineers and trekkers. The mountain is located in the far northwest of the Gokyo Valley close to the 5th and 6th Gokyo lakes. The Cho Oyu Base Camp is at 5,600 m / 18, 372 feet high.
Trekkers on a visit to Gokyo Valley, where only a few groups seldom dare to venture to Cho Oyu Base Camp. Due to its remote and isolated location, the views from Cho Oyu Base Camp offer a magnificent panorama of surrounding high peaks. The views include Mt. Cho Oyu, and Gyachung Kang, with both the north and south face of Mt. Everest.
The walk from Gokyo Lodge around the 3rd lake takes more than 6 hours. Trekkers need to carry tents and sleeping bags, including food for overnight halt. From the main Gokyo areas, there are no lodges and human settlements, which is why most trekkers hike up to 5th Lake only. Due to its long distance as well as the rise in altitude. Interested people can enjoy the trek to Cho Oyu Base Camp of two-week duration hikes from Lukla to Lukla.

07: Dhaulagiri Base Camp:

Mt. Dhaulagiri is the 7th highest peak at 8,167 m high. It is one of the adventurous walks to reach the base camp of Mt. Dhaulagiri.

The treks require more than 12 days to cover the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Includes drives to reach the starting point of the treks around Mygdi District, around the Nepal Far West, of Gandaki Zone, then the treks end at Lower Mustang in Jomsom.

From Jomsom, on a short flight or a long drive to Pokhara, which is the starting and ending points. The trek to Dhaulagiri, camping equipment, and food required to carry for a week.

Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Dhaulagiri Base Camp

Dhaulagiri Base Camp is 4,740 meters high and situated around the moraine of rocks and glaciers. Right beneath the northwest face of Mt. Dhaulagiri and its massive Ice Fall and glaciers are the source of the Mygdi River.  Although a challenging trek, it leads to an enjoyable and exciting walk on a tranquil path. Away from the mainstream and human habitations and villages for a week till the walks reach Kaligandaki Valley.

The trek takes you from low sub-tropical farm areas and isolated villages, then towards complete mountain wilderness. Walk through a lovely forest amidst dense rhododendrons, oaks, firs, and pine trees. Then, the walk heads beyond the lush green vegetation, entering the wild arctic zone landscapes covered in ice, rocks, and glaciers.

Walk past the glaciated valley to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and cross French Pass to scenic Hidden Valley. From Hidden Valley, the walk leads to traverse the last Thapa or Dhampus to reach charming Marpha Village.
The walk follows to the large town of Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang district, for an exciting flight back to Pokhara.

08: Manaslu Base Camp:

Manaslu Base Camp Larke la pass
Manaslu Base Camp Larke la pass

Manaslu Base Camp treks take you to the bottom of the world’s 8th-highest Mt. Manaslu. The base camp is at 4,800 m/15,748 feet high, the mountain was first climbed in 1956 by the Japanese Expeditions.

From then on, the mountaineers mostly visit for the summit bid at 8,163 m/26,781 feet high. Manaslu Base Camp is situated far away from the main Manaslu Circuit route. Only a few interested trekkers often visit the Manaslu base camp for a long day hike from Sama Gaon.

The Manaslu base camp is well hidden and away from the main trekking trail. It is visited only by groups of mountaineering expeditions during the best climbing seasons. For the trekkers, it is a long day hike while spending a rest day for acclimatization at Sama Gaon.

Manaslu Base Camp is located on the far corners of Manaslu Valley, close to the beautiful Birendra glacial Lake. Most trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit trekking sometimes visit on rest days up to Birendra Tal/Lake.
From this spot trekkers can enjoy the view of Manaslu Base Camp, the ice falls and glaciers, and the towering peaks of Manaslu.

To enjoy a hike to Manaslu Base Camp, trekkers need to carry tents and food to spend an overnight. The hike takes more than 5-6 hours one way from Sama Gaon. This is why only a few trekkers hardly visit the Manaslu Camp, only if they are involved with the expedition group.

An amazing with beautiful scenery on the walks to Manaslu Base Camp. Trekkers can experience the dramatic contrast of green forest against the white snow-capped peaks. The journey to Manaslu Base Camp with a full circuit takes about two weeks.

It includes drives from Kathmandu to the starting point of the treks and at the end of the adventure, after crossing Larke-La Pass to reach Manang areas at Dharapani Village, and for the drive back to Kathmandu.

The popular base camp trekking Conclusion:

The popular base camps trekking around the Nepal Himalayas are just information for interested adventurers and trekkers. Some of the base camps are highly popular among the trekkers.

Only a few 8,000-meter mountain base camps are rarely visited by trekkers, other than mountaineers. Due to its remote location and lack of accommodation facilities for overnight stops, after the long strenuous walks.

The most popular base camps are Annapurna and Everest base camps, where thousands of trekkers and mountaineers visit every season.

It is due to the facilities, availability of the lodge accommodations, and the good foods to enjoy, with the picturesque mountain views.

Besides Annapurna and Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga base camps are gradually getting more visitors over the past few years. As the influx of trekkers has increased, and as well as the local lodge en route to base camps has been built. To cater to the trekkers, with the good foods and warm traditional hospitality.

Mt. Manaslu and Mt. Cho Oyu are the only base camps with the least number of visitors, except for the mountaineering expeditions.

The other base camps, like Dhaulagiri, are getting quite popular, as the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek itinerary includes base camp also. For interested trekkers and adventurers, an opportunity to choose from the popular or enjoy the less ventured base camps treks.

Annapurna base camp trek
Annapurna base camp trek

The Home of Mount Everest (Solukhumbu)

Solukhumbu District known as home of Mount Everest (8848.86m), the highest mountain in the world where everyone wants to go once in their life which is located in the Heart of the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. The headquarters of Solukhumbu is Salleri. Solukhumbu lies in the eastern part of Nepal. Previously it was known as Sagarmatha Zone but now it is called Pradesh Number 1 (Koshi Pradesh). In Koshi Pradesh, there are 14 districts including Solukhumbu. The total area of Solukhumbu is 3312 square kilometers. In Solukhumbu we can see different ethical groups who have their own different culture, tradition, language, dress, and festivals. The maximum people of in Solukhumbu are Sherpa, Rai, Tamang, Magar, etc.

Solukhumbu
Solukhumbu

Why Solukhumbu  District is counted as the most popular for trekking in the world?

Solukhumbu is the place where Mt. Everest lies. Many people visit Solukhumbu to touch nature and feel the mountain. In Solukhumbu, we can see many Sherpa who strongly help tourists to get to their dream destination.

We can see the mountains, Monastery, and Sagarmatha National Park which is located in Solukhumbu. Sagarmatha National Park is popular for Wildlife example: Jackel, black bear, wolf, snow leopard, musk deer, etc. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, there are 118 species of bird including Impeyan pheasant (Local name: Danphe) Danphe is the national bird of Nepal.

The most popular trekking route in Solukhumbu is Everest Base Camp, Everest three passes, Chola Pass, and Pikey Peak.
Mount Everest is a peak in the Mahalangur Himal sub-ranges of the Himalayas mountain range. It is located between Nepal and Tibet, an autonomous region of China. At 8,848.86 meters (29,032 feet), it is considered the tallest point on Earth. Officially Everest is located at Solukhumbu District of Province No. 1 in Nepal.
The historic, local Tibetan name for Mount Everest is Chomolungma, also spelled Qomolangma, meaning “Goddess Mother of the World. Whereas, The Nepali name for Mount Everest is Sagarmatha, meaning “Goddess of the Sky.

Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary were the first ones to Summit Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. And Pasang Lhamu Sherpa was the first Nepalese Woman to climb Mount Everest in the year 1993.

The base camp for Everest expeditions based out of Nepal is located by Khumbu Glacier, which is rapidly thinning due to global Warming & Climate Change, making it unsafe for climbers. Keeping this in mind, Nepal’s Government has plans to move the base camp to a lower altitude which will make it difficult for the climbers as it may take many more days to reach up there.

At Everest Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of approximately 17,600 feet, the oxygen levels are about 50% less oxygen compared to sea level. The summit of Everest has about 33% less oxygen than the sea level. So, one must carry at least 4 oxygen bottles while Summiting Mt. Everest. By the 21st century, one of the popular oxygen systems on Mount Everest used carbon-fiber reinforced aluminum bottles, with a 3-liter cylinder of oxygen weighing 7 pounds (3.2 kg) when filled up at 3,000 pounds per square inch (210 bar).

Geography of Solukhumbu District:

Chola Lake
Chola Lake

Solukhumbu District lies in the eastern part of Nepal. It is characterized by a diverse topography ranging from lowlands to high mountains. This district is part of Sagarmatha National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site. Solukhumbu is home to Mt Everest and many more mountains including Mt. Lotse, My. Nupte, Mt. Chouyu, Mt. Makalu, and other uncountable mountains below 8000m.
Sagarmatha National Park is a protected area in the Himalayas of northeast Nepal. It was established on July 19, 1976, and is listed on the World Heritage site. It is home to Mount Everest and also contains Dudhkoshi and Bhotekoshi Rivers and Gokyo Lakes. It is home to rare species like the snow leopard, musk deer, and red panda.

Phaplu Airport is situated at Solu Dudhkund Municipality of Solukhumbu District, Province No. 1. The airport is near District Headquarters, Salleri. This airport is the gateway to the Khumbu Trekking Route. The distance between Kathmandu and Solukhumbu is 144 km.
Lukla Airport or Tenzing & Hillary Airport is located Far North Mid-East of Nepal Himalayan region within the Solu-Khumbu district. Approx. 135 kilometers air distance from Kathmandu Tribhuvan Airport, a flight duration of 30 to 35 minutes, and 73 nautical miles. The shortest means is flying to Lukla for the Everest base camp trek and to other various adventure destinations around Khumbu.

There are two ways to reach the district of Solukhumbu: by air and by road.
By Road
Salleri, the Solukhumbu District headquarters, is linked by road. Solukhumbu is accessible by road from Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. Salleri is about 270 kilometers (170 miles) from Kathmandu.

How to reach Everest base camp by road?

Amadablam
Amadablam

From Kathmandu to Salleri you can take private or local transportation to reach Salleri then change a local jeep to Thamdada.

By Air
In the Solukhumbu district, there are four regional airports. There are several flights and air services to choose from. The four airports in Solukhumbu are:
1) Tenzing-Hillary Airport
2) Syangboche Airport
3) Phaplu Airport
4) Kangeldanga Airport

Solukhumbu is surrounded by numerous rivers, valleys, glaciers, and lakes. Dudh Koshi River originated from the high Mountains.
The largest glacier in the Solukhumbu region is Khumbu Glacier and it is a dangerous area for mountain climbers. It lies around Mt. Everest.
Gokyo Lake is one of the best destinations in Solukhumbu. It is located in Gokyo Valley. It is an outstanding lake in the Khumbu Region.

Trekking Trails In Solukhumbu District:

Solukhumbu is the best part for those people who love adventure, nature, and trekking. You can make unforgettable memories in this region. Once you reach there you visit there again and again.

You enjoy the atmosphere of the mountain in Solukhumbu, no other place beats that feeling. After Everest Base Camp Trek another most popular trekking route is Gokyo Lake Trek which shows the pleasure and peace in your mind.

Everest Three Pass Trek (Chola Pass, Renjo La Pass, and Kongma La Pass) is the most adventurous trek in Khumbu with challenging trekking trails, High mountain passes, and thrilling experiences. You will find many hard challenges but it is worth it according to the feeling you get in high mountains.

Every trekking trail in Solukhumbu gives another level of satisfaction and peace. Each trekking experience is unique in this region which shows the grandeur of the high Himalayas.

Culture & Traditions in the Everest Region

The Everest Region is a world-famous tourist destination. Tourists from all around the world come here to experience the vast mountain range. Similarly, the people and culture of Everest are equally as fascinating as the mountain trails. The majority of people living in the Everest region are Sherpas & Rai.

The Sherpas of Everest are unique. They are mountaineering pioneers. Their culture and lifestyle are also fascinating. Sherpas construct gompas to practice their religious practices. A lot of such monasteries can be found on Nepali mountain trails. The majority of Sherpas are Buddhists. Their main festival is the Loshar festival.

In Solukhumbu Local Sherpa and Rai are well-known as elite mountaineers and local experts. They were useful to early Himalayan explorers. They served as guides at the high altitudes of the region’s peaks and passes. Sherpa and Rai were particularly involved in expeditions to climb Mount Everest.

 

Trekking in Solukhumbu District

Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek

Maximum popular trekking trails are in Solukhumbu:

  1. Everest Base CampTrek
  2. Everest Three Passes Trek(Renjo La Pass, Chola Pass, Kongma la Pass)
  3. Everest base camp Trek with Chola pass
  4. Pikey Peak Trek (Lower Everest)
  5. Dudh Kunda Trek

Lukla Airport The Gateway of Mount Everest

Lukla Airport
Lukla Airport

Lukla Airport The Gateway of Mount Everest is the ‘World’s most amazing and unique airstrip on the lap of the Himalayas’Lukla Airport was named Tenzing & Hillary Airport two decades ago, in tribute to late legendary mountaineers. The first conqueror of Mt. Everest, who stepped on top of the world’s highest peaks on May 29th, 1953.

The British Expedition was led by John Hunt the first British Mountaineering Expedition to Mount Everest. The expedition team had to walk from outside the Kathmandu Valley rim to Everest base camp.

Then it was located at Gorakshep 5,180 m / 16,995 feet, a distance of 4 km. / 2.5 miles; to the present Everest base camp.
It was quite a long journey to reach the world’s highest mountain base camp.

The expedition teams had to spend a few months for acclimatization and preparation before making the summit bid.

Lukla Airport started operating flights in 1971 after it was built in 1964 with the immense support of Sir Edmund Hillary. Then the airport took a new turn having a proper air terminal and properly paved runway in 2001.

The airstrip or runway is 527 m (1,729 feet) × 30 m (98 feet) with an 11.7% gradient. The airport stands at an elevation of 2,845 m / 9,334 feet high in the eastern part of Lukla town.

One of the most unique runways due to its high mountainous terrains, where only smaller aircraft can land and take off. The airport is suitable for smaller planes like STOL (Short Take-off and Landing). At present various domestic airlines operate flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, using smaller aircraft. Likewise, Pilatus Porter, Twin Otter, Dornier, and other similar types of models are safe for mountainous airports like Lukla.

Where is Lukla Airport Located?

Ramechap to Lukla Airport
Ramechap to Lukla Airport

Lukla Airport or Tenzing & Hillary Airport is located Far North Mid-East of Nepal Himalayan region within the Solu-Khumbu district. Approx. 135 kilometers air distance from Kathmandu Tribhuvan Airport, a flight duration of 30 to 35 minutes, and 73 nautical miles. The shortest means is flying to Lukla for the Everest base camp trek and to other various adventure destinations around Khumbu.

Lukla is about 367 km. / 228 miles road and driving distance, the drive does not reach actually to Lukla. The motorable road has reached as far as Tham-Danda which is about a day’s walk from Tham-Danda to Lukla.

In the early days, trekkers had to drive up to Jiri town and follow the southern region of Everest around Solu. But for the past 4 decades, most trekkers and mountaineers have taken the comfort of flying into Lukla. Which saves much time in a week or less, but quite an interesting walk and drives to reach the Khumbu area.

From Lukla to Everest base camp is approx. 62 k.m. or 38.5 miles one way.
A busy town, is the main gateway for various adventures and treks to the famous Everest base camp.

Why is Lukla Airport famous and popular?

View From Lukla Plane
View From Lukla Plane

Lukla is the quickest and most accessible route to reach Everest base camp and other adventurous destinations. Lukla is located around the mid-hills of Mt. Everest with other famous groups of peaks. Lukla with its only airport makes it one of the busiest and most popular spots to reach various higher adventure destinations.

Where thousands of adventurers, trekker, and climbers, as well as mountaineers, starts and end the treks at Lukla. Lukla is the vantage point for all types of adventure activities from trekking and peak climbing to major mountaineering.

Visitors from around the world fly to Lukla which is the only way shortest way to complete one’s dream destinations. Being located in the high Khumbu region where all major peaks and the world’s tallest mountains are situated. Lukla is one of the sought destinations for all types of adventures as well as to explore the local immense Buddhist cultures.

Why is Lukla Airport so dangerous?

Dangerous airport in Nepal
The Dangerous Airport in Nepal

Lukla airport is not as dangerous as people have advertised in guidebooks and travel magazines. Any airport around the mountainous region might seem dangerous to all travelers if it was so dangerous. Why thousands of trekkers, mountaineers, and adventurers, as well as local Sherpa fly to Lukla every season of the year. The word dangerous is quite exaggerated or overstated for Lukla Airport by many Social Media, making it much more dramatic.

Where all airports around the world can be dangerous if it is not handled carefully with various safety precautions. Apart from the airport, some people feel scared of flying even in bigger airplanes like Boeing or Airbus. Lukla Tenzing & Hillary may look dangerous for fresh new travelers due to its small and short runways.

All safety measures are carefully checked and taken care, of during the high peak seasons of spring and autumn. The Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport is the busiest air station in Nepal for domestic flights. Where various local airlines operate dozens of flights within a few-hour gap when the day is clear and promising.

It is not the airport that looks dangerous, where the pilot needs to be very experienced to fly and land. Especially in a mountainous zone, as the plane is higher and lower than mid-hills sometimes, the danger is always there.

However, the Nepalese pilot has decades of experience flying throughout the Himalayan terrains and sometimes in between the mountains.

So, Vertex Holiday would like to clarify the confusion and misunderstanding regarding Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport being dangerous. It is a safe airport with a short runway, suitable only for smaller aircraft that operate for these types of mountain airports.

How dangerous is Lukla Airport?

Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport as stated above is not as dangerous as it seems and looks by outside visitors. The only dangerous situation may occur when flying in bad and unfavorable weather conditions. But the air tower on both ends does not allow this sort of situation to fly in worse weather.

Some airlines’ professional and expert pilots do fly sometimes when the day is overcast, as long the landing visibility is clear. The dangerous word seems quite absurd for Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport or any airport around the high Himalayan region. Where all crew members of airlines and Civil Aviation are fully aware of safety and precautionary measures.

In any place around the world, airports can be dangerous if there is a lack of safety measures and negligence; from the airport technician or pilots.

So it is hard and difficult to prove that Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport is dangerous. It all depends upon the safety and precautionary measures of both pilot and airport personnel; as well as depending on how old are the aircraft.

Lukla Airport crash History:

It is hard and difficult to put into words the crash history that has taken place at Lukla Airport. But the truth and facts have to be exposed so that visitors can be well prepared, before choosing the holiday.

Mishaps and disasters can happen anytime and in any place around the world but in the case of Lukla Airport. The airport is not dangerous for no reason, in the first place, accidents have occurred in the past few years.

So far plane crash at Lukla airport and surrounding areas have taken a toll of seven fatal incidents; with over 50 passengers and crew members have died.

The reason and problem, due to its high-altitude position, conditions at the airport were quite turbulent. Nearly 50 % of all scheduled afternoon flights are canceled because of poor visibility.

The aircraft that fly to Lukla or any mountainous region can only accommodate smaller turboprops, with 16 passengers. The aircraft models, such as De Havilland DHC-6, Twin Otters, Pilatus PC-6 Porters, Dornier Do-228s, and L-410 Turbo-Lets.

The first crash took place in 1984, and a Royal Nepal Airlines DHC-6 Twin Otter 300 crash-landed. It was not able to be repaired, none of the three crew and passengers were hurt. This was the beginning of a tumultuous history of deadly incidents at Lukla Airport.

Two of the deadliest airplane accident happened at Lukla Airport, in 2008 and 2012. Out of all 19 passengers and crew, only the captain survived.

The other incident occurred on September 28th, 2012. The flight was on its way to Lukla Airport, but it happened near Kathmandu-Tribhuvan Airport. Where all 17 passengers of Sita Air and both pilot and crew members died.

Lukla Tenzing & Hillary Airport to Everest Base Camp trek:
Lukla Village
Around Lukla Airport Village

From Lukla to Everest base camp takes about 11 to 12 days having leisure rest days for acclimatization. Covering 124 km. or 76 miles both ways from Lukla to Lukla, the start and finishing point of the trek.

Trekkers and mountaineers fly to Lukla for various adventure destinations around the high Khumbu of Everest region. The main flow of trekkers makes it to the Everest base camp, which is one of the most popular adventure destinations.

The walk follows the main straightforward route to Everest base camp having several overnight stops at designated places. Following the standard itinerary and guidelines, the trek leads to Phakding village, and then to the famous Namche Bazaar.

Most trekkers spend a few overnights at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization at the height of 3,440 m / 11, 286 feet. From Namche Bazaar walk continues to Tengboche or Deboche the main overnight halts amidst beautiful scenery of snow-capped peaks. Tengboche one of the highlights of the trek, is located en route to Everest base camp a great place with a majestic monastery.

Trek then leads beyond Pangboche village to Dingboche or Pheriche, slowly the adventure leads higher to Lobuche. From Lobuche to Gorakshep, and then to Everest base camp, located at 5,364 m / 17, 598 feet. Then heading back to Gorakshep for an overnight stop, the next morning a steep climb up to Kalapathar rocky hill. A famous and best viewpoint at 5,643 m / 18, 514 feet high for a close look at Mt. Everest. As well as for grand views of adjoining surrounding giant peaks.

Mount Everest
Mount Everest 8848.86M

On completing the major highlights of the adventure return journey back to Lukla for a sweeping short flight to Kathmandu.

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trekking

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trekking provides travelers and adventurers with the most exciting information. Where every trekker is unknown and aware of the great varieties of food available around the close shadow of Mt. Everest in Nepal.

Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp

Thousands of trekkers, adventurers, and mountaineers have ventured to the world’s highest Mt. Everest base camp Trek. The flow of visitors has increased over the past decades from the 1960s to the present 21st Century. In the early days, trekkers had to spend overnights in tented camping where all foods had to be carried from Kathmandu.

The mass flow of trekkers and adventurers made this destination one of the top adventure destinations. The number of guest houses and lodges has mushroomed over the past thirty years at designated villages for overnight stops.

Where there were no places for trekkers to stay, temporary settlements were established by the local villagers. Making the best accommodation and food available for trekkers’ comfort, providing a simple local food menu.

Over the years most simple and basic lodges, were replaced by posh guest houses and resorts in major places. Offering travelers the most luxury and comfortable accommodation with a compressive food menu and other best facilities.

However, at present trekkers can find various types of lodges, accommodation, and food, from budget, standard to luxury class.

Vertex Holiday welcomes all wide-world visitors to taste and experience, the local and international cuisines en-route Everest base camp.

Food to refresh trekkers en route to Everest Base Camp:

Trekkers will be surprised to find great food varieties nearly in all lodges from simple to standard lodges. From the start to the end of trekking at Lukla, where all lodge restaurants serve the best nourishing foods.

The trek begins and completes at Lukla town, with only the closest airport of Khumbu to Everest base camp. Trekkers can enjoy the walk from one traditional Sherpa village to another, not missing delightful places for lunch and dinner.

Where all lodges, inns, and guest houses have fancy, cozy restaurants serving a full food menu. The most common food available and most fulfilling is the traditional and famous, popular Nepal Dal Bhat.

Most trekkers and visitors to Nepal must have known or heard of this national meal. All restaurants en route serve Dal Bhat with various seasonal vegetables mild curry and light spices.

Trekkers might have experienced various café, eateries, and international standard restaurants in Kathmandu, as well as around tourist places of Nepal.

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Most tourist areas around Nepal are a paradise for visitors where one can find various types of foods. From continental, and oriental to local foods with a blend of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan flavors including excellent bakery products.

Trekkers might expect the same standard of food on treks to Everest Base Camp, where visitors will be surprised. Finding a grand long list of food menus in some of the best posh hotels and lodge restaurants. The best food on route Everest base camp is available in Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar as well as in Tengboche.

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, From Namche Bazaar and Tengboche onwards are just temporary settlements with several good lodges and restaurants. After Tengboche and Pangboche due to the high altitude and harsh cold weather, the food menu is limited.

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek However, trekkers can take delight, whatever is listed on the menu, some lodge restaurants do have bakery items as well. All meals are served hygienically and well-cooked to consume as per one’s choice and options.

Trekking Agency In Nepal
Trekking Agency In Nepal

Most food menu list includes Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with snacks, refreshments, and appetizers.

Breakfast:

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Simple and common items in Western breakfast are oats porridge, cornflakes, muesli, or granules, served with cold or hot milk. The breakfast is followed with a main course like toast, pancakes, and eggs of variation likewise; boiled, omelet of variation including scrambled. Includes hot and cold refreshments like juice, tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. Some luxury hotels and resorts also serve sausages, bacon, hash browns, and crepes with some roasted fresh tomato.

Lunch Menu:

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Most trekkers have heavy breakfast, skip lunch, or just have refreshing stops for cold or hot drinks. Normally trekkers are on the move to care for lunch, however, trekkers can have the option of a quick lunch. To add energy for afternoon walks to designated overnight stops.
The lunch menu normally serves famous Nepali Dal / Bhat with mild vegetable curry and spicy pickles. Usually most trekkers fancy light lunches like plain local bread or chapatti (unleavened dry Indian-style bread). Where one can add jam, butter, or honey, other main lunch courses are fried rice, and fried veg/egg noodles.
Includes noodle soup, Tibetan Bread (deep-fried wheat), fried potato and eggs are also popular items for lunch.

Trekkers prefer light lunch before starting the last hour of afternoon walks to their respective destinations.

Afternoon Tea / Refreshments:

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Once trekkers reach their overnight halts with options of various standard lodges, one can enjoy brief refreshments. Every lodge and resort provides a big dining hall mostly decorated with local Sherpa cultural arts and design.

All dining with central heating systems to keep the room warm and cozy with light music. Dining is the main meeting place for all trekkers to share ideas and make friends with different nationalities.

The Dinner Menu Main Course or La’ Carte’ basis:

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Like in all hotels and lodge restaurants, most places en route to Everest base camp serve similar types of food menus. The dining area is the liveliest place to interact with other travelers as well as local guides.

Dinner normally starts as per the time chosen and is ordered on arrival at respective lodges / Tea Houses.

The dinner includes various flavor types of soups as per one’s choice, followed by bread, popcorn, or papad (light thin snacks). Then follow the meals of your choice either set meals of Nepali Dal Bhat (boiled/steamed rice). The Dal is a lentil bean soup with a spicy flavor that can be brown, yellow, or black lentil.
The Dal Bhat includes mild spicy flavored vegetable/meat curry, the vegetables depend upon the season. The meat variation can be Buff (Buffalo) or Chicken pork and yak meats are quite rare around the Khumbu region.

The Dal Bhat is the most common and basic meal found all over Nepal, an important basic diet of all Nepalese. The other favorite meals include Mo-Mo (meat or vegetable stuffed Dumpling), famous and popular all around towns and cities in Nepal. The second most popular food and snack of all Nepali, Mo-Mo a Tibetan name for Dumpling with a choice of spicy sauce.

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Besides the Nepali main course of Dal Bhat or Mo-Mo, one can enjoy Indian and Chinese cuisines. As well as Continental meals of mashed potato, fried or roasted chicken, and other dishes, like Pizza, Spaghetti, or pasta. The restaurant does provide desserts canned fruits, and custard as well as some bakeries’ products like cakes or pastries.

Enjoying the main dinner course of meals can conclude the night by having a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee.

Healthy food in Everest base camp trek:

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Every trekker needs to be physically fit, as well as with sound medical background. So that one can enjoy and have delightful moments overlooking views and enjoying the local culture and foods.

The most important is staying healthy and fit throughout the trip, and taking care of oneself. Choosing the right choice of foods, and making sure it is hygienically prepared and served on the table.

Besides healthy food, to stay fit must be aware of high altitude sickness or AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Taking care and precautions against AMS, trekkers will have an enjoyable time with pleasant scenic walks.

At higher altitudes to be fit, trekkers need to consume much fluid taking plenty of safe water to drink. Besides safe boiled and filtered drinking water, trekkers can take hot soup, light green tea, or other healthy fluids.

Reaching higher elevations like at Namche Bazaar which is above 3,440 m or nearly 12,000 feet high. Trekkers can feel the altitude and thin air, one needs to take things slowly and drink much fluid.

The important thing to know about being healthy and fit on treks to Everest Base Camp is avoiding meat products. Meats are scarce around the Khumbu region, as the Sherpa of Everest interwoven with strong Buddhism, the killing of animals is prohibited.

The Sherpa does not raise livestock except for Yaks and a few cattle to use for farm work. From Namche Bazaar onwards killing is not allowed and that is why once a week Saturday Market is held. Where lower villages of Solu bring the meat products, after butchering before reaching Namche Bazaar.

Food Guide for Everest Base Camp Trek, Trekkers can find meat items on the menu list, but one needs to be careful due to hygiene reasons. Some meats can be very stale, even though the area is cold but not safe to consume meats. The best is to have meat products on the return journey back to Lukla, the other important things to know. Most menus mention Yak Steak, but can be a Buff meat instead of Yak. Buff is common and easily available from the Saturday market, whereas Yak meat is available sometimes. Yak meat is scarce, the Sherpa enjoys Yak meat, only if it accidentally dies from falling off the cliffs. Yak meat is very rare, as the Khumbu Sherpa do not butcher the animals; the only meat available is from the Saturday market.

So when you order a meat product like Yak / Buff Steak make sure it is safe and hygienic. Besides meat products, all food on the trek to Everest Base Camp is safe to consume. However, due to high altitude, some people might lose appetite, which is a slight symptom of AMS. In this case, one can order light food like soup which is much easier to take than solid food. When one is not feeling well in high altitude areas, but going down your appetite will be back again.

The cost of food on route Everest Base Camp Trekking:

Food guide for Everest base camp trek
Food guide for Everest base camp trek

The cost of food varies from one lodge restaurant to another, the more you reach higher, the more costly it becomes. Where all food items and fuels are transported by porters, mules, and yaks, from Lukla airport to various higher destinations.

Normally the cost comes on average of US$ 5-10 for breakfast. For lunch depending upon the choice of minimum US$ 5 to maximum US$ 10.
Dinner comes from US$ 8 to US$ 15 as per the food and standard of lodges and restaurants. On average US$ 20 to US$ 25 per person for food each day, where room accommodation is at an extra cost of US$ 10 to US$ 20.

Besides main meals breakfast, lunch, and dinner one will be spending on refreshments like drinking water, and soft drinks. Where beer and hard drinks are quite expensive also, not good while going up. Better to enjoy hard drinks and beer on the way down to Lukla, after completing the trek to Everest base camp.

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners, Vertex Holiday offers a wide range of exciting adventure destinations for all types of interested visitors. Nepal is a great country for boundless adventure and outdoor activities, the most popular is trekking and hiking. Where one can enjoy for a day or more a weeklong scenic and cultural country walks. All trekking destinations provide enjoyable and scenic walks with ever-constant views of snow-clad peaks towards the north.

sunrise view from Ghale Gaun
sunrise view from Ghale Gaun

Besides exciting hikes, the walk offers dramatic scenery of the country’s landscapes and beautiful terrains. The trail follows through lovely dense woods lined with tall rhododendrons, oaks, pines, and fir trees. An enjoyable walk through nice country villages adorned with age-old traditional cultures and farm activities.

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners is a perfect way to enjoy country walks, suitable for all age groups. From families with young children to elderly people, as well as for corporate executives; where one can experience the fresh, cool Himalayan environment.

Vertex Holiday provides excellent holiday destinations around the Himalayan foothills and mid-hills, overlooking panoramic Himalayan views throughout the walks. Nepal is a country of many ups and downhill with few gradual trails to enjoy. But at the end, where all feel glad to complete the walks, after an enjoyable, short moderate trek in Nepal. The treks in Nepal for beginners are perfect and altitude friendly, where one can feel safe from high altitude sickness.

Trekking Destination in Nepal for beginners:

Chisapani to Nagarkot Treks:

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Chisapani to Nagarkot Trek is a short moderate walk within the green hills of the Kathmandu valley rim. An exciting trek of just two days starts from a city suburb at Sundarijal, a farm town. The trail climbs towards the beautiful waterfront of Sundarijal as the name means, located amidst lovely cool forest surroundings.

Uphill continues through dense woods reaching atop a lovely ridge of Chisapani at 2,195 m / 7,201 feet high. A wonderful spot where one can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Himalayan snow peaks, along with stunning sunrise and sunsets. After 3-4 hours of good walking overnight at Chisapani in the comfort of a local nice lodge. The next morning enjoy the brilliant sunrise with a chain of snow-capped peaks, then continue walking, following a high ridge. The trail leads to pleasant ups and downhill with constant views of the Himalayan mountain range.
They complete the trek reaching Nagarkot Hill, situated at 2,175 m / 7,136 feet high. Nagarkot is the most popular holiday destination for Kathmandu city folks as well as for foreign visitors. The Hill Town of Nagarkot offers breathtaking views of sunrise and sunsets over the panorama of Himalayan peaks.

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Nagarkot offers a wide range of overnight comfort from budget and standard to luxury hotels and resorts. Next morning enjoy the sweeping panorama of the Himalayan range of peaks with striking sunrise. From Nagarkot after a delightful morning drive back to Kathmandu at a distance of 27 km / 16 miles.

Extension Options:
Interested people can extend the hike for a day more to Changunaryan Town and the ancient temple. As well as a trek for 5-6 hours to old Dhulikhel town and drive back to Kathmandu.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most visited and popular trekking destinations for all beginners. As well as hard-core trekkers and adventures due to easy accessibility from Pokhara city. Located Nepal Mid-West Nepal around the Annapurna Himalaya range, a wonderful area for a few-day scenic treks.

poonhill
poonhill viewpoint

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek takes you on beautiful walks covering a short circuit of 2-3 days or more. Depending upon the trekkers’ choice as per one’s time frame, a lovely walk through lovely mountain villages. As the walk progresses the trail follows a lovely forested path lined with tall rhododendrons and pine trees.

Then finally reaching Ghorepani village located at 2, 2,885 m / 9, 465 feet, at the base of Poon Hill. Ghorepani with many good lodges for overnight halt-facing views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayas. Next morning an hour climb to Poon Hill at 3,210 m / 10, 531 feet high. From Poon Hill enjoy the glorious morning views of a stunning sunrise over three world’s highest mountain ranges.
The views include Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manaslu, and Annapurna Himalayan range with majestic Mt. Machhapuchare the famed Fish-Tail peak.

From Poon Hill, an alternative route takes you back to Pokhara, after walking up and down to lovely Ghandruk village. Where the trek ends, then take a few hours of exciting drive to beautiful Pokhara city.

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Panchase Hill Trek:

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Panchase Hill Trek is a beautiful, scenic destination, located on the western mid-hills from Pokhara city and its serene lake. A perfect and ideal country walk on the rolling green hills above Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake.
Various routes to enjoy this wonderful walk to Panchase Hill, where the trail leads on the high ridge. The path follows through a number of farm villages of Phumdi, Bhumdi to reach Panchase Bhanjyang at 2,100 m high.

The next morning a climb for two hours reaches you on top of Panchase Hill at 2,500 m / 8,202 feet. The highest point of the trek and enjoy the spectacular panorama of the world’s three highest Mountain ranges. Namely Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manaslu, and Mt. Annapurna with towering Mt. Machhapuchare the famous Fish Tail peak. The view includes a series of snow-capped peaks with dramatic landscape scenery along with brilliant sun-rise.

The return route to Pokhara with various options, one can extend for a few days more or just descend towards; the western end of Phewa Lake. Then take a drive or walk back to your hotel in Pokhara by the Phewa Lakeside.

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Langtang Valley Trek:

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Langtang Valley Trek offers amazing scenery and country walks around Central Himalaya amidst beautiful Langtang Himal. A moderate trek takes you to the highest point for an overnight stop at Kyanjin Gompa. Located at 3, 800 m / 12, 467 feet within picturesque Langtang Valley surrounded by tiers of towering snow peaks. Energetic people can reach higher on top of Kyanjin-Ri at 4,850 m / 15, 912 feet. As well as climbing to Tserko-Ri at 5,033 m / 16,512 feet, these highest viewpoints offer a breathtaking mountain panorama.

Kyajin Ri
Kyajin Ri

An adventure of a week involves drives both ways to and from Kathmandu-Syabrubesi the starting and ending point of trekking. Langtang Valley Trek although it leads to a touch high altitude, trekkers will have no problem of altitude sickness. As the route leads to gradual ups having time to get acclimatized on overnight stops before reaching the final destination.

Langtang Valley Trek is situated within Langtang National Park, the first mountainous park ever established in the Nepal Himalayas. The area is enriched with exotic flora and fauna, home to various endangered mammals such as snow leopards and Red Panda. Trekking in Nepal For Beginners every route Walk leads to beautiful rhododendrons and pine forests, in springtime, the area is lively with wildflowers in bloom.

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Everest Panorama Trek:

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners Everest Panorama Trek, one of the most scenic and picturesque trekking, an adventure of a week duration. Which involves a short scenic flight to and from Kathmandu and Lukla, where the walk begins and ends at Lukla town.
A moderate adventure leads through lovely traditional Sherpa villages adorned with many prayer monuments and follows the Dudh-Koshi River.

The trail leads to Sagarmatha National Park, which is designated in World Heritage Sites, the name Sagarmatha for Mt. Everest. The walk leads to lovely woods of tall rhododendrons, pines, and silver fir to reach the famous Namche Bazaar.
It is the major hub for Khumbu villagers and trekkers an interesting town and the perfect place for acclimatization. From Namche walk leads on a scenic wide trail with ever-present views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The climb takes you to the top of Tengboche and the monastery at 3,867 m / 12, 687 feet high.

One of the most famous viewpoints for Everest panorama with a series of snow-capped peaks that surround the lovely Tengboche. An amazing place to experience along with glorious views, trekkers can enjoy a tour of the monastery.
Where one can observe age-old heritage of great cultural and religious interest, truly a blessed spot. Tengboche is also famous for a great religious festival called Mani Rimdu, which takes place in the autumn time of mid-October.

Best seasons for trekking in Nepal for Beginners:

The trekking destinations that we have lined above are moderate treks, which do not involve high passes or problems of altitude. These moderate trekking can be visited in all seasons of the year, except monsoon wet times of July and August. However, the best time is spring from March to May, when days are quite long with full of sunshine. Can get cold in the morning, late afternoon, and nighttime, with chances of light showers and snowfall sometimes.

Sherpa porter
Sherpa porter

Trekking in Nepal For Beginners, The next best season for trekking in Nepal is autumn/fall starts in September and ends in November. Most days are clear with sunshine, but can be very cold from afternoon, and night till morning time. Chances of snow on higher elevations above 2,500 m high, but days are crystal clear for views and walks.

Trekking in Nepal for Beginners, Interested people can venture during the winter times of December to February when most days are fine and clear. But chances of snowfall sometimes around higher altitudes can be cold morning, late afternoon, and nighttime.

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal is another way of enjoying the Himalayan foothills within the close shadow of the Himalayan Mountain range.

In the past years, in the mountainous region of the foothills and valley, a network of motorable roads has been built. Gives motorcycle riders various options to explore the wide range of exciting and beautiful destinations around the Nepal Himalayas. At present, the country offers great places around the nooks and corners of Nepal Himalayas to the mainstream trails.

Where vehicles cannot reach, but on the motorcycle, any good rider can enjoy the ride on the rough dirt tracks. An adventure to enjoy around Nepal’s beautiful and dramatic landscapes of great diversity and variations. From climate, vegetation, and up and downhill terrains to local cultures on a motorcycle tour in Nepal.

A motorcycle Tour in Nepal is one of the best ways to explore the hidden gems of the country. Enjoying the ride from smooth roads to off-the-beaten tracks and riding over hills and valleys.

The Motorcycle Tour, provides an unforgettable experience, choosing the off-trails on adventurous tracks or riding on smooth paved roads. One can enjoy it for a day or more to a few weeks long, where moments will be an exciting ride.

Nepal with world’s 8th highest peaks with countless mountains. Makes the country a premier ground for all types of biking adventures, from the low flat land of the Terai belt. Extending to cooler mid-hills to the arctic zone of ice and glaciers offers great thrills and challenges. But at the end where can enjoy the comfort of homely comfort and the hospitality of the local Nepalese people. An exciting country Nepal is for enthusiastic riders seeking a change of variation and a challenging or leisurely smooth ride.

Vertex Holiday offers a wide range of motorcycle tours in Nepal with the guidance of expert guides, showing you the wonders of Nepal’s Himalayas. Vertex Holiday provides various destinations to choose from for all types of interested rides within the Kathmandu Valley and beyond.

Major Motorcycle Tour Routes in Nepal

01: Rara Lake Motorbike Tour:

An ever-exciting motorbike around far northwestern Nepal to the country’s largest Rara Lake. The biking duration of 8 Nights and 9 Days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, is a great adventurous ride. From the foothills to the flatland of sub-tropical Terai, and then heading off-road to Rara Lake. Includes riding with a day hiking, providing enough rest, before riding back to Kathmandu after a long motorbike journey.

Rara Lake Motorbike Tour in Nepal covers a distance of 1,792 km. / 1, 113.497 miles. Includes 16 km or 10 miles walks from Talcha to Rara Lake and back at Talcha.

Overall trip of 11 Nights and 12 Days from main arrival to final departure, or stay longer for another adventure.

 02: Upper Mustang Motor Bike Tour:

Upper Mustang Motor Bike Tour, a journey of fewer than two weeks, is an exciting bike ride. From the main highway to off-road on dirt hilly and mountain tracks to enter the former walled kingdom of Lo Manthang.

The mileage covers approx. 1,324 km or 823 miles during 12 days of biking, around the far north-west. Upper Mustang is a picturesque country and an extension of the Tibetan South-West plateau. Where bikers can witness both impressive cultures of Buddhism and Hindu religions.

 03: Lhasa to Kathmandu Motor Bike Tour:

The Lhasa to Kathmandu Motor Bike Tour is one of the most adventurous biking tours, around the world’s highest and largest plateau of Tibet. A ride on the high-altitude terrain facing fantastic views of Tibetan beautiful landscapes with snow-capped peaks.

The biking starts from the fabled city of Lhasa at 3,660 m high, riding down to cross the border. To reach Nepal, after a fabulous adventure ride across high passes above 5,000 m facing outmost views of the Himalayas. On this journey where bikers have the opportunity to visit Tibet’s largest and main cities of Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse.

All these cities of charm with majestic monasteries with a tour of the magnificent Potala Palace and then riding back to Nepal. This biking adventure includes a visit to Mt. Everest’s north base camp at Rongbuk, en route to Nepal. An adventure from Lhasa to Kathmandu of more than a week of 9 days, covering approx. 1,250 km / 776 miles. An average of 60 to 80 biking every day after a tour of Lhasa city.

 04: Overland journey on Motorbike Tour from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

One of the easiest and most fun rides on a 220 km / 137-mile distance journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Although an easy ride on the main busy highway, allows travelers and bikers to observe the Nepalese rural farm life. Along with local cultures facing grand views of country landscapes as it changes on every hour of a bike ride. Pokhara is one of the most beautiful and renowned tourist cities in Nepal as well as around the whole Himalayas.

The city is lower than Kathmandu with a mild climate and a charming place to visit, blessed with mountains and lakes. As well as fascinating with natural wonders, located in Nepal Mid-West. Pokhara is the gateway for various adventures around the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayas, as well as for different exciting adventure sports.

05: Ghale Gaon Village Motorbike Tour:

Ghale Gaon Village Motorbike tour leads to the mid-hills of eastern Annapurna and Lamjung Himal, close to the Manaslu Himalaya range.

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal around Ghale Gaon An exclusive cultural and scenic moderate biking adventure, covering three days; reaching a maximum height of 2,100 m / 6, 889 feet high. An interesting bike ride to experience from low sub-tropical areas of paddy fields to cooler alpine climates.

Motorcycle tour in Nepal
Motorcycle tour in Nepal

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal Where visitors are greeted with a warm traditional welcome, an exciting village Ghale Gaon to observe the local culture. Ghale Gaon is surrounded by high hills covered in a lovely forest of rhododendrons, pine, and oaks. Offer grand vista of Annapurna, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himalaya range with tiers of green rolling hills.

Ghale Gaon is also a popular scenic destination and is renowned as Asia’s best model of a tourism village. Located in North Mid-West Nepal around Lamjung district as well as on route to Manang and Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit trekking trails. Not far from Kathmandu for a day ride of 118 km / 74 miles, takes more than 5 hours. Due to off dirt road from Besisar the headquarters town of Lamjung district.

06: Day ride around Kathmandu Valley:

People who enjoy leisure bike rides can travel around Kathmandu Valley covering the three magnificent cities. Around Kathmandu and the outskirts, Patan / Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, are the famous cities within the valley. An exciting ride visiting Kathmandu’s best places of Swayambhunath, White / Seto Monastery of great charm and beauty.

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal can Ride to Narayanthan a temple of the sleeping Lord Vishnu on a bed of serpent, an amazing idol of Vishnu. The ride takes you to the huge stupa of Bouddhanath, known as Little Tibet. From here ride to Bhaktapur City takes you back to the medieval time era. Bhaktapur Durbar Square and its magnificent monuments are one of the best of all world heritage sites in Nepal.

Time permitting visit Patan / Lalitpur city, an interesting place to experience the local Newar cultures. As well as its masterpiece architecture of the old palace and royal courtyard with temples of the Malla Kingdom regime.


About Motorcycle Tour in Nepal:

The above-mentioned are a few great destinations as options to choose from various tours. The country offers more exciting places from the lowland of Terai visiting the famous Chitwan National Park. For the best wildlife safari in Asia, as well enjoy the ride around the Tharu villages steeped with impressive cultures.

The motorcycle tour extends to the beautiful old town of Tansen Palpa, the historical Gorkha town, and much more. For bikers to enjoy, longer routes and destinations can ride along the eastern highway of Nepal. Reaching Ilam town, famous for its tea garden and best flavor of the tea.

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal offers A scenic hill town on the lap of Mt. Kanchenjunga, worth a visit riding to Sandakphu Hill. Located on a scenic ridge at 3,636 m / 11,930 feet high in the Singalila Ridge. It straddles the border between Nepal and Eastern India close to the famous Darjeeling and offers stunning sunrise views over eastern Himalayan peaks. Includes panorama of massif Kanchenjunga with Makalu as far as Mt. Everest with beautiful surrounding of rhododendron and magnolia forest.

Motorcycle tour in Nepal
Motorcycle tour in Nepal

 Motorcycle Tour around the valley rim hills:

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal is another nice option for bikers to enjoy a day or more of motorcycle rides around the hills of the Kathmandu Valley rim. One of the best scenic rides to the northeastern hill of Chisapani, and then ride on a ridge off-road. Following the dirt trails through the beautiful forest of rhododendrons and pines, heading past nice hill farm villages as the ride continues heading up to Nagarkot Hill town famous for sunrise and sunset views over a chain of Himalayan peaks. Staying overnight in the comfort of nice hotels and mountain resorts with the backdrop of the Himalayan Mountains range.

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal From Nagarkot either head back to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur City or continue the ride up and down to Dhulikhel Old Town. A famous hill town for its mountain panorama and scenic landscapes, Dhulikhel with many good hotels and resorts.

Motorcycle Tour in Nepal After Dhulikhel either ride straight to Kathmandu or take an extra tour on a bike visiting the holy site of Namobuddha. A lovely place within serene surroundings and ride back to Kathmandu via Panauti town.

Nepal trekking vs Nepal peak climbing which one to choose?

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak climbing; may sound odd as all have to trek to reach the proposed peaks for the climb.

Nepal trekking is one of the major flows of tourism after major mountaineering and peak climbing. The country is known as the world’s best adventure destination and that is trekking to various Himalayan regions of Nepal.
Nepal trekking offers a wide range from the Far Eastern Himalayas of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Everest to the Far West Himalayas around the Dolpo region.

Trekking is a nature walk of a few days to a week or more; while Nepal Peak Climbing leads to more days. Peak climbing trekkers have to be in good physical shape and good health. As for trekking any beginners or adventurers can enjoy the walk from moderate to adventurous treks.

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak Climbing:

Trekking:

Peak Climbing is a major outdoor activity popular next to trekking
Trekking in Nepal

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak climbing, Trekking is a country walk that can be short or long distance, depending upon the duration as per chosen trek itineraries. Trekking in Nepal Himalayas offers a wide range of adventures, from a few days to a week or more.

Trekking is walking through traditional farm villages and into a lovely forest of tall pines and rhododendron trees. Spending overnights in a nice local cozy lodge around the farm village and settlements, close in the shade of high snow peaks.

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak climbing, Trekking is for all types of people from young children to elderly people as long they are fit and able. Needs to be in good physically fit sound medical health, and able to walk uphill and downhill.

Trekking is a perfect nature holiday walking on the high ridges of the Himalayas, facing the grand vista of Himalayan snow-capped peaks.
Trekking with a wide range of choices where one can enjoy walking on popular mainstream to off-the-beaten tracks. Trekking is the main flow of tourism in Nepal after peak climbing and major mountaineering Expedition.

Trekking with various destinations to choose from Far Eastern Himalayas to the Western ranges of Nepal. Includes the main popular region of Nepal Mid-East and West, like the Annapurna’s, Everest, Langtang, and Manaslu areas.

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak climbing, Besides from main major trekking region, visitors can have the option of trekking off the popular routes. There are many hidden nooks and corners around Nepal yet to be explored and discovered. So trekking is one of the main adventure holidays that one can enjoy visiting Nepal. Where visitors can enjoy amazing views of the Himalayan Panorama in the comfort of a nice cozy mountain lodge.

Peak Climbing is a major outdoor activity popular next to trekking
Trekking in Nepal

Trekking can be done in nearly all seasons of the year, the most favorable time is spring from March to May. The next high season is autumn starting from September till November when days are bright and clear.

Trekking in Nepal can be enjoyed during the winter times of December to February also, although much cold morning and night time. But most days are very clear for views and pleasant walks, in winter an enjoyable time. Especially joining for moderate short treks that do not involve high passes, like Annapurna or Everest base camps. Trekking for all to enjoy in every season of the year around Nepal Himalayas.

Trekking is controlled by TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal), Government-authorized agents, where all trekking permits are issued.

But for Restricted Areas Trekking requires a special permit as per the number of days. Like for Upper Mustang, Upper / Lower Dolpo, Limi Valley, and Manaslu Circuit trek, including Tsum Valley. Where solo or individual trekkers are not allowed, there must be a minimum of 2-3 people. Have to join with Government Regisrated Companies of Nepal, must be accompanied by License Guide with porters.

Peak Climbing:

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak climbing, Peak Climbing, also involves trekking to reach the base of the proposed destination for the climb. Peak climbing is an adventure for interested beginners in mountaineering and other major mountain expeditions.

The Peak Climbing of several grades and classifications, from trekking peaks to major mountaineering expeditions. Trekking Peak climb is a lesser altitude below 6,600 m, trekkers interested in climb can try climbing smaller mountains.

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak climbing
Peak Climbing

All Trekking Peaks require climbing permits from NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association), a semi-government agency that controls most trekking peaks.

Peak Climbing in Nepal Himalayas has more than 100 peaks to choose from above 5,500 m to 6,500 m. Trekking Peaks are open for the climb as per the peaks listed by the NMA and Ministry of Tourism. For Peak climbing where an individual climber is allowed but needs to be booked with a local reliable and Government government-registered company. Should be accompanied by a licensed guide approved and registered with NMA, requires porters as well.

Apart from peak permits, the climber must obtain Conservation or National Park fees, as per the region of climbing peaks. The cost of peak climbing can be much dearer or more costly than normal trekking. The trekkers have to be well equipped with climbing gear and need to provide extra peak bonuses for the climbing guides.

Peak Climbing around Nepal Himalayas is much more enjoyable and exciting depending upon the choice of peaks. The most popular peak climbing is within popular areas of Everest and the high Khumbu Valley. The other best places are around the Annapurna Himalayas in Manang Valley north of the Annapurna range. As well as within Annapurna Sanctuary close to Annapurna Base Camp, including Langtang Valley and Nepal Mid-West and Eastern region.

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak climbing
Peak Climbing in Nepal

Some of the Peak climbing areas are far beyond the main trekking trails around Kanchenjunga, Dhaulagiri, and Dolpo areas.

Nepal Trekking vs Nepal Peak Climbing All Peak climbing where trekking is involved to reach the base of designated peaks, where lodges are not available. Trekking Peaks needs to carry camping equipment and food for some days till the climb is over. Then reaching the nearest settlement having lodges for an overnight stop before reaching the road head.

Peak climbing in Nepal is a good way to start mountaineering and climbing hobbies or professions. Where expert and veteran climbers and mountaineers can enjoy good exercise and practice before planning major expeditions.

For Peak Climbing, all climbers have to book on the right seasons either in springtime for March to May or autumn / Fall from September to November.

Trekking Peak climbs are for all types of trekkers and adventurers depending upon the choice of climbing grade. Some are easy or less technical difficulty, while others are moderate to challenging. Makes Nepal a haven for climbers and trekkers to enjoy all types of adventure activities.


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Amazing History Around Patan Durbar square

Patan Durbar Square located in the capital city of Kathmandu Valley is an amazing place on earth, blessed by the natural beauty of surrounding tiers of green hills. With a contrast of white snow-capped peaks in the north, with three main ancient cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Around the verdant valley of Kathmandu stands the beautiful city of Patan, known as Lalitpur in the south. The two districts are bounded by the holy Bagmati River that outlines Patan / Lalitpur and Kathmandu cities.

Patan Durbar Square
Patan Durbar Square

Patan with the present and old name Lalitpur means the city of fine arts and crafts. A semi-metropolitan city, retaining its past glories from the start of human settlements by Lichavi, Malla to Shah Regime. The city of Patan / Lalitpur established since it was founded during the 3rd Century BC by the Kirat dynasty.

The old kingdom of Patan was later expanded in the 6th century by the Malla kings, Nepal’s history. When the Kathmandu Valley was ruled by the Malla dynasty from the 10th to 18th Century. According to Nepalese chronicles, Patan / Lalitpur was founded by King Varadeva in 299 AD.

The boundary of Patan is marked by the ancient Buddhist stupas that were built in 250 BC by King Ashoka. The emperor and conqueror of North India converted to Buddhism. During his visit to the Kathmandu Valley. The emperor Ashoka built four small ancient Buddhist stupas resembling four corners of Patan.

It is believed that after King Ashoka built these stupas, Buddhism flourished in the valley. Patan / Lalitpur city is certainly an impressive city of both modern with medieval era backdrop. At present a sub-metropolitan and second city after Kathmandu which is at a mere distance. Separated by a bridge over the Bagmati River within the same valley, toward the south of Kathmandu. A short drive of fewer than 30 minutes to enter the Patan / Lalitpur city area.

YouTube video

At Lalitpur or Patan observe and enjoy the local colorful bazaar teemed with daily traditional life and interesting to witness the local culture, and then visit its Old Durbar Square (Palace Courtyard) and many more as follows.

Places of interest around Patan Durbar Square:

I) Patan Durbar Square:
II) Mul Chowk (royal court yard and verandah):
III) Sundari Chowk:
IV) Keshav Narayan Chowk:
V) Krishna Temple:
VI) Mahaboudha:
VII) Kumbheshwor:
VIII) Jagat Narayan Temple:
IX) Rudra Varna Maha Vihar:
X) The Ashoka Stupas:
XI) Patan Industrial Estate:
XII) Tibetan Refugee Camp:

Patan Durbar Square:

Patan Durbar Square is located right in the center of Lalitpur and houses the ancient Newari architectural work of art. There are three main courtyards in the palace:

Which are known as Mul-Chowk, Sundari-Chowk, and Keshav Narayan Chowks. Mul-Chowk is the oldest one and is at the center of Patan Durbar Square. Several multi-sized and multi-styled temple houses the western part of the complex. The main among these are the Krishna Temple, Bhimsen Temple, and the Golden Temple of Hiranya.

Patan Durbar Square
Golden Temple

Mul-Chowk (royal court yard and verandah):

One of the famous and largest courtyards among the three main chowks, the Bidya Temple is located at the center of the courtyard and the Taleju temples stand around the courtyard.

Sundari-Chowk:

Sundari-Chowk, located south of the Mul-Chowk with a sunken tank known as Tusha-Hiti- Mul-Chowk with Taleju Temple.

Keshav Narayan Chowks:

Keshav Narayan Chowks on the northern part of Degutale temple is the site of the earliest Malla palace in Patan. The Chowks sit on the older foundations of a Buddhist monastery.

Krishna Temple:

This temple in Patan Durbar Square dedicated to Hindu Lord Krishna was erected in the 17th century, considered to be the first one to be built in Shikara architecture. It commands a vital position around Durbar Square. The elegant Shikara-style temple is ranked as one of the gems of Durbar Square.

The temple is compared with the sacred Mount Meru, which is an abode of the god Shiva according to Hindu scriptures.

Patan Durbar Square
Krishna Mandir

Mahaboudha:

The Buddhist temple of Mahaboudha, which is made of clay bricks, lies to the east of Durbar Square. Hundreds of Buddha images are engraved on the bricks. The temple is known for its fine terra cotta work.

Kumbheshwor:

Just at the rim of Durbar Square lies the five-storied pagoda temple of Lord Siva built by King Jayasthiti Malla. Inside the temple premises a natural spring with fast-running waters through an ancient spout.

The pure water is believed it flow from the source of the famous glacial and holy Gosainkunda Lake. Located around Langtang Himal of Rasuwa district towards the north and the closest mountain range from the Kathmandu valley.

The golden work on the temple was added later in 1422 A.D. On the festival of Janai Purnima (month of August) as per the Hindu calendar, a ritual bathing and religious fair take place.

Jagat-Narayan Temple:

The Jagat-Narayan temple is a tall Shikara-style temple devoted to Lord Vishnu, red bricks are used for the construction. The temple also holds a fine metal statue of Garuda, Ganesh, and Hanuman, all related to Hindu religion and mythology.

Rudra Varna Maha-Vihar:

This Buddhist monastery holds an amazing collection of images and idols in metal, stone, and wood. Legend holds that the Kings in ancient times were crowned in this monastery. Many of the treasures offered by the people can be seen here even today. Extension of Patan / Lalitpur of great cultural and historic interest and craftsmanship.

The Ashoka Stupas:

The Indian Emperor Ashoka visited Nepal in 250 B.C. Who constructed four ancient stupas around four cardinal corners of Patan / Lalitpur?

Patan Industrial Estate:

Located outside the Patan Durbar Square in a suburb near the Stupa at Lagankhel, an interesting place to visit and shop for souvenirs, where all the handicrafts are hand-made from metal, wood, and stone artwork including carpet, a pashmina shawl is woven here, as Patan / Lalitpur is the city of beauty and arts, it will be an opportunity to observe the work and skill of the craftsman and to purchase some items from this place.

Tibetan Refugee Camp:

Tibetan Refugee camp is located in the south of the Patan area near the only Nepal Zoo, where one can observe the happy-cheerful workers weaving carpets.

This place was established in the early 1970s after the Chinese annexed Tibet where a great number of Tibetans migrated here, and the Nepal Government established this place as a permanent camp or settlement for Tibetan Refugees here you can shop for souvenirs as well.


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Best Short Treks In Nepal That Can Be Done Within 7 Days

Best short treks in Nepal that can be done within 7 days; the country offers many different regions, where one can enjoy it. Nepal is an amazing country full of natural wonders from the low land of warm Terai to cooler mid-hills.

Extends towards higher rolling green hills to the mountainous terrain of the arctic zone with the world’s highest peaks.

Best Short treks in Nepal
Namche Bazaar

Best short treks in Nepal is a country with the world’s highest mountains and beautiful dramatic diverse landscapes; making it one of the premier grounds for all types of adventure activities.

The major influx of visitors in Nepal is for trekking around various Himalayan exotic destinations. Trekkers can choose various options from moderate to adventurous walks of a few days to a week or more. From Nepal Far East to the Western Himalayas and around the Mid-Central remote Himalayas of Manaslu and Annapurna region.

The best short treks in Nepal can be done within 7 days, with many places and regions to choose from. Likewise, Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang Himalayas are the best areas for short pleasant country walks. All short trekking of a week duration does not involve high passes nor the problem of getting high altitude sickness.

Best short treks in Nepal for 7 days, which all types of people can enjoy from families, and school/college groups to corporate executives.

Following moderate best destinations to choose from, for a week of trekking.

01: Langtang Valley Trek: Best short treks in Nepal

Best short treks in Nepal Langtang Valley Trek is the closest and most beautiful mountain destination to the capital city of Kathmandu and one of the Best short treks in Nepal. Involves interesting drives both ways before and after the trek around Langtang Valley within the Central Himalayas of Langtang Himal.

Langtang Valley Trek
Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley treks take you to the beautiful settlement of Kyanjin Gompa, at 3,870 m / 12, 697 feet high. The walk starts from a nice Tamang village of Syabrubesi and then climbs gradually up to enter the river gorge. Covered in a dense forest of tall rhododendrons, hemlock, pine, and fir trees with bamboo thickets.

Which makes it an ideal habitat for many different mountain wildlife like the endangered and elusive Red Panda and rare snow leopard. A haven during springtime, when wildflowers are in sessional bloom, especially the rhododendrons of various species brightens the hills. An exciting walk amidst enchanting woodland then walks through Langtang village, as the gorge opens into a wide scenic valley.

Reaching Langtang Valley enclosed by white snow peaks and rocky towering mountains, it a fabulous to spend overnight in Kyanjin Gompa. Enjoy the grand vista in the harmony of Tamang traditional hospitality, and then on the return trek downhill to Syabrubesi. After a wonderful experience around the Langtang Himal range and within the picturesque green Langtang valley, drive back to Kathmandu.

02: Everest Panorama Trekking: Best short treks in Nepal

Best short treks in Nepal A wonderful and worth a visit to the high Namche Bazaar and beautiful Tengboche Monastery with a beautiful view of the world’s highest Mt. Everest. Mt. Everest panorama trek of 7 days from the start and ending point at Lukla, after a sweeping flight from Kathmandu.

Monasteries in Nepal
Tengboche Monastery

The best short treks in Nepal Walk follow on a gradual moderate trail, and then up to the famous Namche Bazaar at 3,440 m high. Spending an extra day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and exploration to witness local culture and viewpoints. The adventure continues heading uphill to Tengboche and the monastery, located amidst high snow peaks with views of Mt. Everest. One of the Best short treks in Nepal around the Himalayas with a colorful majestic monastery in the backdrop of Mt. Everest.

After an exciting and picturesque moment return journey to Lukla via Namche Bazaar for a panoramic flight back to Kathmandu.

03: Annapurna Panorama Trekking: Best short trek in Nepal

One of the best short treks in Nepal is the scenic Ghorepani  Poon Hill trek, poon hill at 3,210 m / 10,531 feet high. A popular and famous country walks around the southern hills of massif Annapurna Himalayas for a short and scenic adventure. Starts from beautiful Pokhara city blessed with the natural beauty of snow-capped peaks, rolling green hills, and serene lakes.

Seasons to travel in Nepal
Rhododendron Bloom Ghorepani Village

Best short treks in Nepal Take a drive towards the west reaching the nice village of Bhirethati to begin the trek heading uphill to Ghorepani village. Walk amidst enchanting woods of rhododendrons and pine trees with constant views of Annapurna Himalayan peaks. Spend overnight in the cooler hill village at Ghorepani, and next early morning hike to Poon Hill. From the top of Poon Hill enjoy stunning sunrise views that reflect over a chain of Himalayan snow peaks.

A great vista facing the world’s three highest mountain ranges from Dhaulagiri, Annapurna to Manaslu Himal, includes majestic Machhapuchare Himal.

After a glorious morning trek continues from Ghorepani to Ghandruk village and then down and up to Landruk. Finally, the walk completes reaching Dhampus village, located on a high ridge facing the grand panorama of the Annapurna Himalaya range. From Dhampus a short drive to Pokhara, after a marvelous country walk on the hills of Annapurna Himalayas.

04: Panchase Hill Panoroma:

Panchase Hill Panorama is a lovely and interesting Best short treks in Nepal, around the scenic rolling green hills of the Annapurna Himalayas. The trek begins from various starting points, but the most straightforward route is taking a boat ride. Across the calm Phewa Lake, and then climb to a lovely ridge top at Buddhist Peace Stupa.

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek
Sunrise

Where the walk follows along the ridge line facing the spectacular panorama of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu Himalayan ranges. The trek passes through the nice farm village of Pumdi and uphill to Bhumdi village, as the air gets much cooler.

From Bhumdi village morning walk leads through a lovely cool forest of pines and rhododendron trees. As climb leads into a dense forest and lovely field of green meadows and pastureland to reach Panchase Bhanjyang. Located on the foot of high scenic Panchase Hill our target for next early morning.

After an overnight in a small nice local lodge, enjoy the morning hike of a few hours to Panchase Hill. At a height of 2,500 m / 8,202 feet, offers tremendous views of surrounding dramatic landscapes scenery. Enjoy the striking sunrise with a panorama of the Himalayan peaks of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna as far as the Manaslu Himal range.

The return route with several options to choose from as your time allows, walk down to Bhadaure village. Then trek towards Bhirethati to Ghandruk villages and then end the walk at Landruk village. Where one can complete the walk by taking a drive back to Pokhara. After an enjoyable and marvelous short adventure of 7 days around Panchase and Annapurna High Hills.