Mysterious Nepal, land of the mystics and the spiritually inclined, Nepal is a country where Hinduism has been largely influenced by Buddhism. As of that meld in religion over the years as well as being at a border with India and China, gives Nepal it’s distinct character that is different in the region. The location of a cluster of the highest mountain ranges in the world, including the Mount Everest, as well as mind blowing scenery, makes Nepal as one of the most must visit places for those seeking a great journey outdoors.
Nepal receives a ton of visitors just for hiking and mountain climbing activities alone so be rest assured that the locals are well accustomed to tourists flocking for guides, supplies and accommodation. Visitors literally spend days hiking as the place has just so much to offer. Please note that there are dozens of good hiking trails in Nepal but here are but a few of the best places for hiking:
THE ANNAPURNA REGION
Also called the Annapurna circuit is a trail that circles the whole of Annapurna region. The trail itself usually starts from Kathmandu and runs from around 160-230km in length and even goes through two river valleys which are the Marshyangdi River and the Kali Gandaki River. The highest point of the trail is up to 5400m at the Thorong La pass and goes through four districts, which are Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Myagdi. Depending on visitor requirements and physical capacity, this trail can last from 18 to 20 days. Not only does this trail covers the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas, but it is also an opportunity for travelers to experience the different tribes of people living in the region.
MT. EVEREST BASE CAMP
Take this trail if you want to see Mt Everest up close. You don’t actually have to climb the Mt Everest itself, as the trail will lead you to the base of Mt Everest. The trek itself can take up from 9 to 13 days. The trail starts from the Khumbu region of Nepal and requires you to take an additional flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to reach it. From there, guides will be assigned, usually from the Sherpa tribe who are widely known as expert mountaineers. The trail passes a number of interesting places such as the Namche Bazaar, the Tengboche Monastery and the remote village of Dingboche before reaching the Kala Pathar and the base camp. From here you can enjoy the surreal view of Mt Everest.
MARKHA VALLEY, LADAKH
The Markha Valley trek is from the Indian side of the Himalayas. Not to be underestimated, this trail is located on the western side of the Himalayan range and thus will be dryer than its other counterparts. But rest assured the 7 to 9 days track will not disappoint anyone as the scenery alternates between green landscapes and dryer paths. From Leh the trail generally starts at Spituk and will pass through the beautiful Zingchen Nala gorge, the riverbed walk in Rumbak to reach the Ganda La basecamp where you will likely to see the local grazing wildebeests enroute. The trail then leads to the Markha Valley and Nimaling, through Kongmaru La pass, the highest point of elevation and from there you will be able to see the breathtaking view of the Indus valley and the Ladakh mountains. From there it will be a downward trek towards Shang Sumdo where the magnificent journey will end.