Everest has a Face

With an enigmatic presence, Mt. Everest stands as a symbol of human endurance and limitation
that testifies and has engulfed many in their quest of proving themselves. Standing tall at a height
of 8848 meters it’s the ultimate destination for mountaineering. According to locals Mount
Everest is also known as Chomolungma or "Goddess Mother of the Land". Sherpas who have
been the aborigines of the Himalayas have long revered it as an abode of the gods. Although
Everest has seen many Victories but to its other side it also hides a spiritual side, the Sherpas
still regard the mountain as a holy place. Even today all modern expeditions begin with a
ceremony in which Sherpas and other team members leave offerings and pay homage to the gods
of the mountain, hoping to remain in their good graces throughout the climb. The 20th century
orchestrated Man’s step in moon as the biggest headline creating a swarm of curiosity but still
there are so many things that remained un-answered and un-explained. Similarly, today in the
21st century a new discovery has amazed people to believe in the existence of the supernatural
power and its understanding. In-fact if you look at technical science Mount Everest was created
by the uplifting of continental crustal material caused by the collision of the Indian lithospheric
plate and the Eurasian lithospheric plate. Mt. Everest is still rising from the continuing collision.

Shocking yet admirable, the new discovery of a man and women face on Mt. Everest and Lhotse
has created an amazement to see the world’s top most point with a new angle of admiration
and anticipation. The abstract creativity of nature synchronizing in shape is a well example of
nature’s abundance where Nepal holds the pride of honoring such manifestation of mysticism.
Some people say it’s the eight wonder and some say it’s divine but to reality its one of the
extreme creation of nature gifted in the form of abstract art which signifies the human relation
with nature. Though, people from different caste and creed have their own interpretation
and meaning but reality is the image on the Mt. Everest symbolizes the enigma of human
existence and survival where the spirituality and divinity comes to the level of seeing in shape of
amazement.

The shape interprets the image as of an eye opened man in deep solitude and veneration facing
upwards to the sky who when reversed transforms and shows the feminine form.

These figures are widely historical and make this Saragmatha area the world’s greatest natural
sacred wonder. The mythical holly grail has been found.

This is proof of the spiritual bridge many on earth have waited ages to see. These figures are the
balanced motion of love and devotion.

Nepal should cater itself as the destination of spiritual land which has such shapes of artistic
work where god had created an earthly canvas on which lays the physical proof of man’s
connection to his higher form. Perhaps, the heights point on earth really signifies the connection
of man with god and what ever you name it; it’s the symbol of unity and peace.

Ghorepani - Poon Hill Trek

Excited and adrenaline pumping, the Ghorepani - Poon Hill (Pun Hill) is renowned as a classic trek. The
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek has over the years been the bestseller. The breathtaking mountain scenery and
the beautiful ethnic villages justify the popularity of Ghorepani trekking. The trek is easy, it has enough
walking along streams and forests for those who are looking for a few days close to nature, yet it is not
far away and involves no high climbing .You absolutely have no risk of altitude sickness on this trek.
Ghorepani trekking can be done all through the year except during the monsoon.

This trek majorly focuses in Annapurna region, which is world famous for trekking. The trail winds
through patchwork valleys, dense mossy forests and past icy waterfalls where you can stop to cool your
face. Around every corner is a tantalizing glimpse of the Himalayas that gives you the feeling to explore
and search more. Starting with short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul the Nepal Ghorepani Trekking
offers Mt. fishtail (6997m/22,956ft), Annapurna 1st in our first day hiking. You got to climb about 3500
stone steps on the way to Ghorepani(2,750m) from Tikhedhunga. The Ghorepani poon hill trek offers
remarkable natural panorama, eye-catching views of Annapurna South (7,219m/23,684ft) Dhaulagiri
(8167m) Machhapuchchhre(6997m) and Himchuli (6,434).

The trek offers spectacular mountain scenery along with charming villages inhabited particularly by the
Gurungs & Magars, dense rhododendron forests full of birds and deep sub-tropical valleys, all set below
the Annapurnas with the picturesque peak of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Peak) dominating the skyline.
This trek is relatively easy because it takes you only up to 3210m at its highest point on Poon Hill .

Ghorepani is densely forested with rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal. Every spring it is
tremendous scenery to watch these forests in bloom with the panorama of the high mountains on the
skyline.This trek, in the Annapurna foothills to the view point on Poonhill, offers all the best of trekking
in Nepal. At the climax of this trek you will climb Poonhill at dawn to enjoy one of the most spectacular
views of the mountains on earth. As the sun touches the snow-capped summits the Himalayan giants,
Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Annapurna (8091m) along with a maze of other peaks, slowly begin to appear,
like magic, before our eyes. It is a rewarding trek that can be enjoyed by every lover of nature and
beautiful landscapes.

From Ghorepani we descend for the beautiful Gurung (name of a community) village of Ghandruk on
the lap of the Annapurna. The village is known for its traditional houses, rich culture and the great
landscape. Walking down through the innumerable steps we make a loop at Birethanti and catch our
vehicle for Pokhara at Nayapul .We trace back no part of the trail on this itinerary. On our whole trek,
we use the mountain lodges called the tea houses for our food and accommodation.

Itinerary:
Day 01: Your arrival to Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), you will be received by our Airport
Representative, and transfer to hotel.

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara - 4-5 hours scenic drive by Private Car / van. Overnight at
hotel in Pokhara.

Day 03: One hour drive to Nayapul by private Car / Van, we then begin trek to Tikhedhunga

We begin our trek at Nayapul, driving to the road head. After 15- minutes short walk along the bank of
the Modi Khola, we reach Birethanti (1065m) a large village that has many shops & teahouses. From
there, the trail continues through the village. The trail follows the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola.
From there, the trail climbs steadily up the side of the valley to Hile at 1495m & after the short climb, we
reach Tikhedhunga at 1525m. This trek offers a short & relatively easy day, during journey & allows us to
become used to the experience of trekking in Nepal.

Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani
Leaving Tikhedunga, we begin our journey with steep climb to Ulleri. Ulleri is a large Magar village at
2070m. Then the trail continues to ascend more gently, through fine forests of oak & rhododendron
towards Banthanti at 2250m. Then we make our trek towards Nangethanti at 2460m. After an hour walk
brings you to Ghorepani at 2775m.

Day 05: Hiking to Poonhill - back to Ghorepani, and trek to Tadapani.
This morning, we will get up early in the morning, and go for hiking to Poon Hill. From here you will see
superb view of sunrise, and panoramic view of Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South,
Fishtail, and so on. After visiting Poonhill, we will come back to Ghorepani, have a hot breakfast, and
continue walking to Tadapani.

Day 06: Trek to Ghandruk
The day starts with short downhill. Leaving Tadapani, we descend steeply through forests and then the
trail eases as we reach Ghandrunk (2000m), which is the village of Gurung people, one of the ethnic
groups of Nepal, have their own dialect, typical culture, costume, and life style. This village is possibly
the popular tourist destination that offers the beautiful mountain views and having easy connection
with Pokhara or Kathmandu. Overnight at Guest House. B.L.D.

Day 07: Trek down to Birethanti - Nayapul - Pokhara.
Today we begin our journey, from Ghandruk offering easy walking all downhill to Nayapul, we then drive
to Pokhara.
Day 08: Drive back to Kathmandu by car / van. Overnight stay at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 09: Full day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu valley (Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath,
Swayambhu, and Kathmandu durbar square).

Day 10: Transfer to Airport for your onward Journey. Farewell!

Camping in Nepal

Highlighting the eight of the world's ten highest peaks, Nepal is exceptionally blessed with spectacular
and impressive trekking & camping sites. Trekking and camping go hand in hand where Trekking is done
in the most rural and remote areas testing human limitation and camping is done to utilize the resources
available. Camping helps in terms of resting, planning, strategy and energy saving. To be precise if
trekking is the objective then camping can be considered as the motivation. Like such, Camping is often
enjoyed in conjunction with various adventurous activities, such as: canoeing, climbing, fishing, hill
walking, mountain biking, motorcycling, swimming, whitewater kayaking etc.

Camping in Nepal is an unpredictable scenario that depends upon location, and time. It can change
drastically from being normal to in a situation. It is highly recommended to do a detail study before
starting your journey understanding the pros and cons of the location.

Nepal is famous in the world for outdoor activities and trekking. Every part of its earth is adventurous
and exciting where the rigid terrain and untouched wilderness keeps the excitement running. More
often in absence of proper infrastructures, camping is the best solution that is reliable and adaptable.
Especially during trekking the range of sceneries, changes from sub-tropical jungle to the Himalayan high
glacier, according to the place and time where nature has its own standards. In most of the times there
are no resources and trekkers and hikers have to be self sustained and camping helps to settle down
with effective resources.

The Himalayas are not just for the mountaineers and very experienced ice climbers and trekkers. They
offer a range of treks to suit all aptitudes and abilities, from a modest hike in the foothills to more
challenging high altitude treks. The people, the flora and fauna and the immense landscape combines
in a kaleidoscope of sights and sensations that make a camping trip among the Himalayas a unique
experience.
Similarly camping is yet another exhilaration that not only makes you feel comfortable but it helps
you to understand nature. As camping is associated with harsh climate outdoors, you have to be well
prepared. Here are some of the precautions to be taken during camping.
• Check for potential hazards. Be sure to check the site thoroughly for glass, sharp objects,
branches, large ant beds, poison ivy, bees and hazardous terrain.
• Inspect the site. Look for a level site with enough room to spread out all your gear. Also, a site
that has trees or shrubs on the side of prevailing winds will help block strong, unexpected gusts.
• Build fires in a safe area. Your open fires and fuel-burning appliances must be far enough away
from the tent to prevent ignition from sparks, flames and heat. Never use a flame or any other
heating device inside a tent. Use a flashlight or battery-powered light instead.
• Make sure your fires are always attended. Be sure you have an area for a fire that cannot spread
laterally or vertically – a grill or stone surface is ideal. When putting the fire out, drown it with
water, making sure all embers, coals and sticks are wet.
• Dispose of trash properly. Remember to recycle – use the proper recycling bins if available.
• Watch out for bugs. Avoid attracting stinging insects by wearing light-colored clothing and
avoiding perfumes or colognes.
• Beware when encountering wildlife. To ward off bears, keep your campsite clean, and do not
leave food, garbage, coolers, cooking equipment or utensils out in the open. Remember that
bears are potentially dangerous and unpredictable – never feed or approach a bear. Use a
flashlight at night – many animals feed at night and the use of a flashlight may warn them away.

Beware of poisonous plants. Familiarize yourself with any dangerous plants that are common to
the area. If you come into contact with a poisonous plant, immediately rinse the affected area
with water and apply a soothing lotion, such as calamine, to the affected area.

Backpacking is a yet another mobile option of camping that is hugely being witnessed here in Nepal.
The popularity of Backpacking has gained phenomenally especially amongst youth who are willing to go
through a challenging experience as well as cost effective solution for their trip. It is the cheapest ways
to camp, but is the most uncomfortable way of travelling with limited resources and the equipment. On
the other hand for many campers, backpacking allows them to experience the true wilderness, but there
is the possibility of severe weather and injury in the remote areas.

Wildlife camping is not very different from normal camping, except the wild camping doesn't get
restricted to season or any adventure activity. It works as a recreational program and there isn't any age
limit in this. Anyone who likes to explore nature and want to learn the facts about what nature has given
to us and what we can give in return, can take up this camping experience.

Dhaulagiri Camping: Hidden in the valleys of the mountains, the Dhaulagiri camping is an enriching
experience encompassing the Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m / 26,795 ft), the seventh highest Himalayan Peak
of the world. The Dhaulagiri camping is one of the most Adventures and challenging trekking trail that
screens the hidden lands of Dolpo to its north, and rich bio diversity with alpine forest towards the
west. During the camping one can get the opportunity to explore the amazing life styles of Gurung
and Magar peoples and their culture in the wilderness. The trekking trails of Dhaulagiri region also
includes traditional ethnic villages and untouched forests, it is a panoramic creation of nature. Tukuche
peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna and Machhapuchhare etc are its major attractions where one can enjoy the
mountains.

Makalu Camping: Located in the eastern part of Nepal in Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbhu district,
the Makalu Region is well known for its rich bio diversity and natural beauty. The Makalu camping rout
encompasses various terrains enclosing tropical forest and snow-capped mountains at an elevation of
8000 M. Makalu region is Nepal’s largest protected area that exhibits a rich culture. The main attractions
of Makalu trekking are Mount Makalu (8463m), and Makalu Barun National Park.
The region includes various trekking trails, like Makalu base camp trek, Arun valley Trek, Makalu three
cols Trek, Gupha pokhari trek, Salpa pass trek and Sherpani pass trek. Makalu camping offers you great
opportunity to have unique experience and memory of a life time. Best season for Makalu Trekking is
March to May and September to December.

Langtang Camping: Bordering Tibet on the northern side the Langtang trekking region combines the
remote and panoramic views of the valley that covers an area of 1,710 sq. K.M. The Region has a
dynamic ecological diversity that spreads through the vivid terrain. The culture and tradition practiced
over here is more contrast to the living tradition anywhere else. Some of the most attractive areas of
the region include the Langtang Valley, the holy lakes at Gosainkunda, and the forested hillsides above
the village of Helambu. The Langtang camping route goes through the Langtang National Park that
contains a wide variety of climatic zones, from subtropical to alpine. Approximately 25% of the park
is forested that is populated with deciduous Oak, Maple, Pine, and various types of Rhododendron
trees. Various rare wild animals like Himalayan black bear, the goat-like Himalayan tahr, Rhesus
monkeys and Red Pandas. There are also stories of Yeti sightings also.

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Annapurna Camping: Annapurna camping is an exciting opportunity that is full of adventure and
excitement. Highlighting the strength of nature, the region is famous for some of the world’s highest
peaks and world’s deepest George like the Kali. The trekking region is famous for trekking, hiking,
Expedition and climbing. In the Annapurna, the upper sub-alpine steppe environment has some of
the rare wildlife like snow leopards and blue sheep. The Main attraction of Annapurna treks are the
panoramic views of Himalayan range where mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), Mt. Annapurna
I (8091m) Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Annapurna II (7937 m.) , Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV
(7525m), Annapurna south (7219m), Nilgiri (7041m), Machhapuchhare (6998m), Hiunchuli (6441m),
Lamjung Himal (6986m),Tukuche peak (6920m), Tilicho peak (7134m) etc can be seen and felt within
the presence of nature. Annapurna region also gives you a unique opportunity to blend with in
diverse culture and tradition. During the trekking on can explore the amazing life styles and culture of
indigenous people.

Everest Camping: Everest camping is a unique experience of colorful vibes of Mt Everest. The trek
includes a visit to the world famous Tengboche monastery and breath taking views of the Himalayan
region. The trip starts from early flights in Kathmandu to the air strip at Lukla. The rest of the day is
spent on an easy trek till Phakding. With lighter start the Dudh Kosi Valley welcomes towards Namche
Bazaar. Namche was once a small village, but is now a major trading hub of the region. Generally
Namche is a point of rest or acclimatization. Tibetan people travel regularly here to sell their wares.
A night is spend at Thyangboche, the site of one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the
Khumbu region. The trail ascends, climbing gradually up the Imja Khola eventually emerging above the
tree line before Dingboche. From Chhukung there are some amazing views of the south-face of Lhotse
to the north with a ring of smaller peaks surrounding it. Dingboche to Kalapatthar takes a further two
days via the lateral moraine of the Everest glacier and Nuptse and Lhotse which tower above. A further
five days are taken retracing to Lukla and the flight back to Kathmandu.

Camping in Nepal is not just an option, it’s a way of adventurous life that is not predictable but is full
of surprises. Practically speaking safe camping is the best way of managing resources which cannot be
denied. But looking at Nepal’s geography and terrain, Camping is the best solution in regards to the
lack of infrastructure where it gives the real feeling of being close to the nature. Merely with limited
resources camping proves to be the most effective solution from ecological point of view that restricts
limited resources and proper management.

Adventurious Caves of Nepal

Located in between the two tectonic plates Eurasian and Indian, Nepal is blessed with a variation of
landscapes that not only amazes but enthralls in every bit of its earth. Looking at it from technical point
of view it’s the same seismic power that created the Himalayan mountain range, and different cave
structures that root inside making and marking its presence. From the top mountains to the beautiful
hiding gorges Nepal has the highest and deepest point here. To the south is the Terai, a flat tropical
land ascending up trend to the Mahabharat mountain range with peaks of up to 4877m, the climatic
and cultural values varies according to place and time. This is to result lay the wide row of the Central
Hills, an undulating mountain area which builds up to the snow –covered Great Himalayan range. Great
Himalayan summits shape the northern boundary of Nepal in the east towards the west. Nepal extends
beyond the Great Himalayan range to the Trans-Himalayan area which is part of barren plateau. This
impressive complex and vaned features involve the basis of attraction in indefinite variety in Nepal.

Penetrating and rooting below the Caves of Nepal ripple and expose the records of the different
geological and mineralogical eras. These caves offer a place to discover man's most ancient colours,
hidden away for ages in the vast mountains deep beneath variety of wonders. There are many cave
systems that which were accidentally discovered by normal people while engaging in their works. Simple
explorations of these caves have discovered internal passages. So additional survey by professional
people may bring many more marvels awaiting discovery.

Located at Chobhar Kritipur municipality, Manjushree caves is one of the common caves that lie in the
southern part of Kathmandu Valley. The Manjushree Cave is related with an interesting legend of the
origin of Kathmandu Valley. Manjushree Cave has a total length of 1250m long, although only 350m of
the cave is open to visitors. One has to pay an entrance fee to explore the cave. There are five routes
which have been opened at present. These routes converge at different points, so it is possible for
visitors to enter from one point and to exit from another point. There are three entrance points; one is
the main entrance and the others are Bagh Gufa and Naya Gufa. ('Gufa' means cave in Nepali). There are
two small ponds inside the cave. The first pond is Mahadev Pond which is 40.3m from the main entrance
and the other is Naya Pond which is about 60m from main entrance.

The need of the hour is to explore fully these caves and inventory to be prepared protected with a view
of protecting unique mineralogical, geological and touristic interests. Among the infinite number of
caves in Nepal firstly attractive and beautiful is Chamero odar or Mahendra Gufa in Pokhara. Mahendra
Gufa which is located 200km from Kathmandu that gives you a good idea of the richness and its
importance of limestone Caves. Mahendra Gufa consists two kilometer that is bifurcated at one point
leading to two dark holes, the limestone walk of which bear innumerable stalagmites and stalactites.
This cave has an icicle –like pendant of calcium carbonate formed by evaporation of water percolating
through lime stone on a roof and also an upward growing conical formation on the floor formed by the
lick from the roof.

Similarly, other caves in the western region of Nepal like Gupteswar Gufa in Kusma which is 457 in long,
Pandusera Gufa in Sinja, Dhara Village in Jumla. Jumla is in the mid-western region of Nepal. The mid-
western region of Nepal stretches from Chure Himal and Rapti river in the east to Karnali river in the
west. It embraces trans –Himalayan regions of Dolpa, Mugu and Jumla in the north to the Terai's fertile
valleys of Dang and Rapti in the south. There is an interesting cave in Jumla at Dhara Village and it is a
cave containing many kinds of formations in the roof as well as walls particularly stalactites formations.
Another cave lies at the northern corner of the Dang Valley and is popularly known as Chamero Gufa. It

can be reached in about four hours walk from Tulsipur. The name of this cave is attached with a flying
mammal which are noticed everywhere within the cave.

Another equally interesting cave is on the slope of the Bandipur hill. This cave is 103 meter long and it
can be reached after half an hour's walk uphill from Bimaltar, a roadside shopping centre located on the
bank of the Marshyangdi river on Prithvi Raj Marg Highway (Kathmandu) Pokhara road.

There is another sacred caves in Khembalung which are regarded holy both for the Hindus and
Buddhists. This cave is located in Makalu –Barun National Park and conservation area. It is situated in
the Eastern Himalaya to the east of Sagarmatha National Park. The name of Makalu –Barun National
Park is derived from Mt. Makalu (8463 m) –the world's fifth highest peak at the northern borders of
Nepal. The scared caves described above have images of gods and goddesses and so sacred for worship
both by the Hindus and Buddhists.

In 2007 a team co-led by U.S. researcher and Himalaya expert Broughton Coburn and veteran
mountaineer Pete Athans scaled the crumbling cliffs on a mission to explore the human-made caves.
Inside the caves, the team found ancient Tibetan Buddhist shrines decorated with exquisitely painted
murals, including a 55-panel depiction of Buddha's life. Similarly, in 2009, the 15th-century religious
texts and wall paintings were found in caves carved into sheer cliffs in the ancient kingdom of Mustang.
Few have been able to explore the mysterious caves, since Upper Mustang is a restricted area of Nepal
that was long closed to outsiders.

Cave system of Nepal hold rich values of traditional, historic and cultural aspect that cannot be
marginalized. Proper management, exploration and research are the need of time where due to lack
of attention, cave robbers are destroying the artifacts. This can not only be a big attraction for tourism
but can be an eye opener from the culture point of view. Thus, these caves should be fully explored and
inventory to sum up in order to gain full knowledge of the formation of these caves.

King of Trekking the Great Himalaya Trail(GHT)

The Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) is the longest and highest alpine walking track in the world winding
4500kms through the tallest mountain ranges and most isolated communities from Tibet to Pakistan.
The trail, which can be undertaken in one continuous trek of 156 days, will traverse the country from
east to west.

The Nepal section of the GHT offers a kaleidoscope of experiences and World Expeditions are proud to
offer ongoing commercial treks beginning in February each year. Winding beneath the world’s highest
peaks and visiting some of the most remote communities on earth, it passes through lush green valleys,
arid high plateaus and incredible landscapes. It covers 1700km of tracks, divided into 10 different
sections. The trail covers the full distance of the Himalayan Range in Nepal from the district of Taplejung
in the East to Humla and Darchula in the West and ultimately continues through Tibet, India and
Myanmar in East of Nepal and Tibet, India and Pakistan in the West. The treks can be done subsequently
or completely separate from each other. Besides, each GHT section features a number of side-treks of
varying duration and difficulty, some of which require camping equipment and others that can be done
teahouse style. With numerous trekking options and new tourism attractions, each GHT section forms a
distinct trekking and adventure destination within itself.

Trekkers can choose between two routes. Nepal’s Upper GHT is winding through high mountain ranges
on an average altitude of 3000 to 5000 metres, providing for breath-taking views on the country’s
towering peaks. Along the Lower, Cultural route, tourists will get the chance to visit small communities
and villages and learn about the culture and traditions of Nepal’s various ethnic groups.

Upper Trail: Trekking along the Upper GHT Trail makes for an unforgettable adventure and for some it
will be the trip of a lifetime. The trail stretches over a distance of about 1,700 km and passes through
spectacular, high altitude mountain landscapes, visiting some of the most remote villages on earth,
where life remains as it was centuries back. Trekking along the Upper Trail requires to cross high passes
with altitudes up to 6,200 m and the whole trek takes about 150 days on average. Proper trekking gear
and mountaineering equipment is needed and anyone attempting this trek should be physically fit and
ideally have some trekking and mountaineering experience. For safety, a local mountain guide who
knows the terrain is definitely recommended especially in high altitudes. Due to the remoteness of the
trek, camping is required for most parts of the adventure and it is necessary that you (or your porter)
carry a tent, food and cooking equipment. But what could be better than pitching your tent surrounded
by the mighty snow-capped Himalayas and sleeping under the star lit sky?
Nepal’s Upper Trail starts north of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp and ends in Hilsa at Nepal’s Tibetan
border in the Western district of Humla.

Lower Trail: Nepal’s Lower GHT – also called the cultural route – goes mostly through the country’s mid
hills with an average altitude of 2000m. However, there are still a couple of passes to cross with the
highest being the Jang La at 4519 m between Dhorpatan and Dolpa in West-Nepal.
Trekking along the Lower GHT means walking through beautiful lush forests, pastures, green rice
terraces and fertile agricultural land, providing the basis for Nepal’s rich culture and civilization. You
will come across local settlements of many different cultural groups, giving you the chance to see
what authentic Nepali village life is all about. For most parts of the trek, you’ll be able to stay in small
guesthouses or homestays, but make sure to still take your tent for some of the more remote sections
of the route. With lots of local restaurants around, you’ll find a place to eat almost everywhere and so
you don’t necessarily need to carry large amounts of food. Shorter then the Upper Trail, the Lower GHT
stretches over a distance of 1,500 km and the whole trek will roughly take around 95 days.

The beginnings of Cross-Himalaya trekking: Not many people have walked the length of the Himalayas
in the last few decades (and written about it). However there have been some expeditions with the goal
either of traversing Nepal or going further trying to traverse the greater Himalaya range.
In 1980, one ‘inspirational’ Mr Shirahata is mentioned in the classic book “Trekking in Nepal” by
Toru Nakano as having walked the length of the country from ‘east to west’ in Nepal but no further
references or information has been found. In 1982, Arlene Blum and travel and adventure writer Hugh
Swift became the first westerners to complete a 4,500 km great Himalayan traverse across Bhutan,
Nepal and India. Starting from the eastern border of Bhutan, Swift and Blum, climbed up and down the
Himalayan range over 6,000m passes and down to river valleys at 600m, gaining and losing an average
of 1,000m each day to reach Ladakh. This is documented in Blum’s book –“Breaking Trail”.
In 1983 two British brothers, Richard and Adrian Crane ran the Himalayas, from before Kanchenjunga
to beyond Nanga Parbat in less than 100 days. According to the Crane’s book, “Running the Himalayas”,
“…in 1980 an Indian army team set out from Arunchal Pradesh in India’s north east corner and, after
one and a half to two years of travel along a high mountain route, they finished their journey just north
of Leh in the Ladakh region of the Karakorams…. it progressed in ‘relay’ fashion and possibly no one
member stayed with the expedition for the full course”. On their way, the Crane brothers met the British
Women’s Trans-Himalaya Expedition who set off from Sikkim in January 1983 and used buses where
necessary on their journey. The Cranes themselves though were however “travelling super-light. One
rucksack, one sleeping bag, one set of clothes, one pair of shoes, and shared between us: map, diaries,
camera, penknife, water jar and two plastic teaspoons. No guides, no porters, no shelter, no food, no
water. And we would be running. Looked at logically, the idea was preposterous”.

Similarly, in 1994 the French duo of Paul-Eric Bonneau and Bruno Poirier made a crossing of the
Himalayas in Nepal in 42 days (October 21 – December 1, 1994) and called their adventure “Trans-
Nepal-Himalaya”. They travelled 2000 km (+ / -55 000 m) between Pashupatinagar (eastern border) and
Mahakali (western border) including Everest base camp.

Then nearly two decades later in 2003, Rosie Swale-Pope ran the length of Nepal, and early Great
Himalayan Trail route, with a support team, doing an estimated 1,700km in 68 days to raise money
for the charity Nepal Trust. Dr Gillian Holdsworth walked a similar route in 2007 which is documented
on the British Nepal Medical Trust website. Between 2008 and 2011 Jean-Claude Latombe walked a
winding trail across Nepal in two sections of 56 and 53 days. His website has a wonderful collage of
images of the people and landscapes he encountered.

However it was early 2009 that truly gave birth to a Great Himalaya Trail in Nepal. Robin Boustead
supported by his wife Judy Smith and friends walked the trail in stages beginning in September 2008. It
took a lot of research to identify a true high-alpine route that was feasible for trekkers. Robin said: ”if
someone gathered enough information on that area, it would be a great trek for everyone”. Robin
was that someone and he has documented his route meticulously using GPS. The route, distances,
elevations, water sources, villages and camp sites are all detailed in his Great Himalaya Trail guide book.
In 2010, another adventurer, Sean Burch completed a route across Nepal in 49 days with the help of
Nepal Trust and in 2011 Shawn Forry and Justin Lichter walked an unsupported trek of 57 days across
Nepal.

In 2006 the Dutch development agency SNV and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain
Development (ICIMOD) in Kathmandu proposed to the Government of Nepal to develop an official
Great Himalaya Trail from near Kangchenjunga in the east to Api-Saipal in the Far West of Nepal and

to harness the trail for pro-poor development in Nepal’s remote mountain regions. The route would
be based on the route identified and documented by Robin Boustead. The idea was well received by
the tourism industry and development actors alike and in 2008, the Government of Nepal with Support
SNV, created the Great Himalaya Trail Development (GHTDP), a public private initiative lead by the
Nepalese Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation. With funding from the UK Department for International
Development UKAID, the Government of Nepal is working closely with the tourism industry, NGOs
and host communities to ensure that the GHT is developed into an iconic and globally significant new
tourism product for Nepal and managed in line with responsible tourism best practices, generating vital
jobs and income for local communities and contributing to the conservation of the country’s natural and
cultural heritage. Still, the Great Himalaya Trail is new and will evolve over the coming years through
the preferences and suggestions of trekkers completing the route or sections of it. This is why it is so
exciting to get on the trail now.

Source: The great Himalayan Trail

Honey Hunting Tradition in Nepal

Nepal is an amazing destination that hides many tradition and culture; from the cultural heritage
to the cliff high end honey hunting expedition nothing beats the adrenaline with the real definition
of adventure. Honey hunting to be precise is collecting wild honey from the hive hanging on a rock
hundreds of meters high where as Honey Hunting in Nepal is an age old tradition in the mountains
of Nepal that the local people celebrate risking their lives. The hives are set up in the rock cliff
approximately 300-400 meters from the ground by the indigenous bees. The locals reach such height
with the help of ladder and ropes with no secured line or safety harness with just the intention of
getting the honey.

Looking back to past, Honey hunting is one of the many activities that have been practiced in the
ancient culture of numerous civilizations. Like such here in Nepal it is one of the most prized tradition
that lives through the cultural heritage of people and tradition. In recent studies, scientists have dated
honey hunting tradition to have been practiced as far as in 13000 BC. In Nepal, honey hunting has been
practiced for thousands of years and is a vital part of a legacy that enriches it in the livelihood of the
local people.

Nepal homes the Apis laboriosa, which is considered as the biggest honeybee, these bees construct their
hives on the cliffs of the country’s foothills. They exist only in the Himalayas and build their nests in high
altitudes (from 8,200 to 13,500 ft). The nests can contain as much as 130lbs of honey and interestingly
different types of honey can be found at different altitudes. Himalayan honey bees make spring honey,
red honey, and autumn honey. Red honey, made solely by Himalayan honey bees and found at the
highest altitudes, is the most valuable because of its intoxicating and relaxing qualities. For the access
most of the honey hunter use ropes, ladders and baskets to reach out the honey combs. While doing
so the honey hunters flushes out the bees with smoke by lighting a fire underneath the hives. Generally
Honey harvesting usually takes place twice a year, when honey hunters get together and head into the
Himalayas to take on this massive task. To harvest one colony takes the honey hunters two to three
hours depending on the location of the hive and its size.

Harvesting the honey is a tradition that the men of Nepal have been doing for generations. Gurung
and rai community people are more active in this. They export this honey to other parts of Asia for five
times the price of the other honey. The most popular honey hunting destinations in Nepal are located
in Bhujung, Nai Chi, Pasgaon, Naya Gaun, Ludhi and Dare. It is an amazing sight that astounds tourists at
the speed and courage of the honey hunters, who hang from the cliffs to earn a living, and marvel at the
ancient techniques that are still in used today. The prized honey is considered very enriching to the body
and is thought to have intoxicating properties.

In Nepal the harvest ritual varies from community to community, adapting a definitive tradition of
rituals and customs. Most of these customs starts with a prayer and sacrifice of flowers, fruits, and rice.
Then a fire is lit at the base of the cliff to smoke the bees from their honeycombs. From above, a honey
hunter descends the cliff harnessed to a ladder by ropes. Another person descends down with a secure
the rope and ladder from the top and ferry tools up down as required; the honey hunter fights territorial
bees as he cuts out chunks of honey from the comb.

May be unique and adventurous?, or May be scary? Honey hunting still is a tradition that lives up to its
reputation. Just with simple tools and unique ways of tradition honey hunting in Nepal is a way of life
for the locals who risk their lives every day for the sake of their family. Honey hunting may be a way of

life but it is certainly a unique way of life that is exciting as well as full of tradition.

Best Adventure in Nepal- Canyoning

Nepal has always been an exciting destination for adventure seekers who like to push their limits, the rigid terrain and the lack of infrastructure at times may be seen as an obstacle but for hardcore adventure seekers it’s a boon. It’s a heaven to those who like to experience the real taste of adrenaline, who seeks the ultimate adventure and Canyoning combines the taste of adventure, and athletics.  To be precise, traveler and tourist love Nepal in practicing and living their adventure dreams where they do everything that is possible.   

Like such, Canyoning is yet another adventure sports that enthralls it’s follower with a new level of adventure and adrenaline. To be specific Canyoning involves various activities likes walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming through a canyon upon creeks or streams with using various techniques of hiking, scrambling, wading, boulder hopping, rock climbing, abseiling and rappelling. It’s an amazing full body and mind experience that enables you to explore some of the spectacular views and sights giving you an amazing 360 experience of being suspended in the air.

To be specific it allows you to explore some of Nepal’s most remote wilderness in the most adventurous way that has never been seen or experienced.  You will traverse though dense jungle, over deep pools and down rocky walls and waterfalls that make you feel the real Nepal. Canyons are generally formed with narrow gorges in numerous water outlets that beautifully sculpted into the walls, and sometimes take the form of spectacular waterfalls. Most canyons are formed into limestone, sandstone, granite or basalt, though other rock types are found.

Technically Canyoning is abseiling and rope work, technical climbing or down-climbing, technical jumps, and/or technical swims done with a safety line attached from the top to end. It is a comprehensive package letting you control through the experience of adventure that requires technical skills of rope management through a stream of waterfall on a fixed wall. For this sport you need to be in your top physical shape with a precise mind. There are different packages available depending upon your skills and knowledge.

Suspended hundreds of feet away from the ground may seem normal for the hardcore adventure seekers but for the faint liners it may seem dangerous and intimidating. But looking at the sport technically, you will know the main priority of this sport to be Safety. You have to take the right moves and guide yourself through the canyon, depending on your judgment based on competent instruction, experience and a realistic assessment of abilities and understanding of current canyon conditions. Canyons can be very easy or extremely difficult, though emphasis in the sport is usually on aesthetics and fun rather than pure difficulty. A wide variety of Canyoning routes are found throughout the world and are enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

 Specially designed with tough carbon fiber and light aluminum, Canyoning gears includes climbing hardware, static ropes, helmets, wetsuits, and shoes, packs, and rope bags. While canyoners have used and adapted climbing, hiking, and river running gear for years, more and more specialized gear is invented and manufactured as canyoning popularity increases.  These items range high in price depending upon their material and quality. It may be costly but the thrill and adventure is the most prized among its followers where it’s never enough. Generally Canyoning packages starts from USD 50 and above depending upon the package and time

Some other rivers in Nepal for Canyoning

Name of the River	Location	Grade	Water Temperature	Time
Bul Bule Khola	Annapurna Himal	V3.A1.I	14	2 h
Kabindra Khola	Annapurna Himal (East)	V2.A1.I	14	30 m
Raindu Khola	Annapurna Himal (East) Marshyandi Valley, Syange Village – (1180m)	V4.A3.II	14	3h 45 m
Sansapu Khola	Annapurna Himal (East) Marshyandi valley, Syange Village – (1180m)	V4.A3.II	13	7h 30m
Gopte Khola	Annapurna Himal (East) Marshyandi valley, Bahundanda Village – (1200m)	V2.A1.I	14	6h 30m
Chipla Khola	Annapurna Himal (East) Marshyandi valley, Jagat Village – (1280m)	V5.A4.IV	13	6h 30m
Syange Khola	Annapurna Himal (East) Marshyandi valley, Syange Village – (1180m)	V6.A3.III	13	7h
Jagat Khola	Annapurna Himal (East) Marshyandi Valley, Jagat Village – (1280m)	V6.A5.IV	11	9h 30m
Tal Khola	Annapurna Himal (East) Marshyandi valley, Tal Village – (1700m)	V4.A4.IV	9	5h
Jombo Khola	BaraBise- Kodari Araniko High way- Bhotekosi Valley	V2.A1 I	13	3h
Handi Khola	BaraBise- Kodari Araniko High way- Bhotekosi Valley	V2.A1 I	13	4h
Kabre Khola	BaraBise- Kodari Araniko High way- Bhotekosi Valley	V2.A2 II	13	3h 45m
Galung Khola	BaraBise- Kodari Araniko High way- Bhotekosi Valley	V2.A2 II	13	6h
Fanfung Khola	BaraBise- Kodari (15 KM North from Bahrabise) Araniko High way- Bhotekosi Valley	V4.A3 III	13	6h 30m
Bandiba Khola	Kavre (East. Kathmandu) Sunkoshi valley	V2.A1 III	13	3h
Tantung Khola	Kavre (South-East. Kathmandu) Sunkoshi Valley, Kallery Village – (800m)	V3.A2 III	13	4h 30m

Canyoning is the new adventurous sport that not only gives you the thrill and adventure but is a unique way of seeing Nepal. For most of the adventure seeker Canyoning has become another option to visit Nepal and is one the favorite adventurous sport. Canyoning in Nepal gives you a life time adventure experience that is enriching as well as enthralling.