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Saturday, August 12, 2017

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek – The Journey to the Foothill of 3rd Highest Peak in the World


Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of fascinating journey to the remote Himalaya of Nepal that is strictly untainted and unspoiled region. This adventurous trekking takes you to the far-eastern region of Nepal. Kanchenjunga is the third highest peak in the world and is easily accessible from Nepal and Sikkim, India. Kanchenjunga lies in three countries i.e. India, China (Tibet) and Nepal but the most popular trekking route is via India and Nepal.
Due to its relative inaccessibility and remoteness, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is one of beaten off trekking in Nepal and you will encounter very less travelers throughout the journey. It is in fact the hidden treasure of Nepal. Many believes that western region is wild and adventurous and it is true to some extent but some aspect of Kanchenjunga trekking (eastern region) is unmatchable to western. If you want to savor the beauty of Kanchenjunga and experience unique geography, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek would be the great option for you.
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Apart from its beauty, colorful villages and unique tribe living in the region highlights the trek. The cross cultural privilege, interaction with locals and witnessing their lifestyle offers deep insight of the region. Those who are keen in exploring secluded region along with exploring pristine nature can go for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Getting to the Starting Pont

By Road Way:


The starting point is accessible via road way. Board a bus at Kathmandu and drive east-south to Biratnagar. It is long and exhausting journey but landscapes seen during the drive is rewarding. Overnight at Biratnagar and next day, drive 8-10 hours to Taplejung, the starting point of the trek.

By Air way


Skipping a roadway saves your time and energy but it is quite expensive. You can take a mountain flight from Kathmandu to Suketar and begin the trek. But we recommend you to take a short flight to Biratnagar and drive same day to Taplejung to begin the trek next day.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking Mode


Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp can be arranged in Teahouse mode these days. However, we recommend you to go for camping trek for more adventure. Limited resources for accommodation and food may badly affect the pleasure of the trek.
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Comfortable sleep every night, 3 hygienic meals per day cooked by expert Sherpa is highly recommended.

Guides and Porters

As Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is restricted area trekking in Nepal, you must accompany the registered guide for entry permit.
Depending on the size of the group, one or two guides will lead the trek. One Sherpa cook with helper, 2-3 porter per guest to carry the necessary logistic will accompany the group of trekkers to Kanchenjunga Base Camp.

Trek Highlights:

The breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga from the North Base Camp at Pang Pema (5,140m), stunning Kanchenjunga Glacier, sharp ridges of Chang Himal (6,800m) soaring above Kanchenjunga glacier, panoramic Taple Shikhar, The Twin Mountain, Pyramid Peak and Tent Peak are the major highlight of the trek. Likewise, Mt. Kumbhakarna, the vertical white mass soaring above the Mt. Khabur and Mt. Phole offers the rarest view during the trek. Moreover, the enthralling beauty of Rathong and Kabru Dome Peak and the magnificent Yalung Glacier adds more charm to the trek.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek also offers the great trekking in the remote corner of Nepal through the alpine woodlands that comprises bamboo, bright red rhododendron, oak, chestnut, pine and juniper trees. Trekking along the deep valley of rivers formed from the glacier of Himalayas and exploring the torrent flow of these river while walking through the narrow suspension bridges is a sheer adventure. Moreover, beautiful passes like Dhupi Bhanjyang (2540m), Lamite Bhanjyang (3410m), Deurali Bhanjyang (3,800m) and Miring La (4,663m) is one of wonderful experience during the trek. KBC trek also provides ample opportunity to witness alpine wildlife and floral species. Wildlife includes endangered snow leopard, musk deer and blue sheep.

Protected Areas


Kanchenjunga region holds three distinct eco-region: The eastern Himalayan broad-leaved, coniferous forest (the eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows and the Terai-Duar Savanna and grasslands. The whole landscapes is protected under the conservation area of Bhutan, China, India and Nepal and comprised 14 protected areas in 6,032 km2.
  1. Nepal- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
  2. Sikkim, India: Kanchendzonga National Park, Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary
  3. Dargeeling, India: Jore Pokhri Wildlife Sanctuary, Singalila National Park
  4. Bhutan: Torsa Strict Nature Reserve
The protected area of Kanchenjunga is home to numerous rare flora like rhododendron and orchids and endangered faunal species like snow leopard, Asian Black Bear, Red Panda, White-Bellied Musk Deer, Blood Pheasant and Chestnut-breasted patridge

Unique Experience

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is also the great opportunity to experience the culture and lifestyle of highland Nepalese communities like Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Gurung and Tamang. Exploring the ancient monasteries, hospitality of locals and challenging hike over Yalung Glacier and walking through high mountain passes offers the life-time experience for trekkers.


Thursday, August 10, 2017

Everest Three Pass Trek- Trekking Route, Difficulties, Best Seasons and Permits


Transportation Route

There are two mode of transportation for Everest Three Pass Trek i.e. via flight or road way. Majority of trekkers choose to take a small airstrip to Lukla and join a classical route to Everest.
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There are numbers of flight in operation on daily basis from Kathmandu to Lukla- the gateway of Mt. Everest. Tara Airways runs maximum numbers of flights to Lukla. The flight cost from Kathmandu to Lukla is USD 280 for foreigners and NPRs 16,280 return for SAARC citizen. In bad weather, the flight often gets delayed and the helicopter charge per person costs around (USD 450-500).
You can also choose to take a bus ride to Jiri and join classical route to Lukla previously used by Edmund Hillary during his Everest Expedition.

Trekking route to Everest Three Pass Trek

Day 01: Kathmandu – Lukla (2,850m) – Phakding (2,640m) – 30 minutes flight/ 4-5 hours trek
Day 02: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (3,440m) – 6/7 hours
Day 03: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
Day 04: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche (3,860m) – 5/6 hours
Day 05: Tengboche – Dingboche (4,350m) – 5/6 hours
Day 06: Dingboche – Chukung (4,600m) – 3 hours
Day 07: Acclimatization day at Chukung
Day 08: Cross Kongmala Pass and trek to Lobuche (4,910m) – 9/10 hours
Day 09:  Lobuche – Gorakh Shep (5,170m) – 3 hours
Day 10: Gorakh Shep – Kala Patthar (5,554m) and back to Lobuche
Day 11: Lobuche – Dzongla (4,850m) – 3/4 hours
Day 12: Dzongla – Cho La (5,420m) – Thangnak (4,700m) – 7/8 hours
Day 13: Thangnak – Gokyo (4,750m) – 3/4 hours
Day 14: Acclimatization day at Gokyo
Day 15: Gokyo – Renjo La Pass (5,417m) – Lungden (4,375m) – 6/7 hours
Day 16: Lungden – Thame (3,825m) – 3/4 hours
Day 17: Thame – Namche Bazaar – Monjo (2,825m) – 5/6 hours
Day 18: Monjo – Lukla – 4/5 hours
Day 19: Lukla – Kathmandu

Difficulties of Everest Three Pass Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek covers all the aspect of wilderness trekking in Nepal from extreme altitude trekking to remote trails and crossing some of adventurous passes in Nepal.
Trekkers have to hike for more than 19 days in extreme weather, remote trail and alpine altitude. Trekkers must be physically fit and mentally strong to accomplish to the trek successfully.
At alpine altitude, travelers are likely to get caught by Altitude Threat so it is important to walk slow and make proper acclimatization.
As it is remote trail in Nepal, travelers should not expect world-class accommodation and quality food service with extensive menu.
Another difficulties might be the communication. Everest Three Pass Trekking Trail have poor access of satellite communication and only few popular villages like Namche has internet access. English is well-understood by few educated mass.
ATMs are not available at Everest Three Pass Trail so you need to hold enough cash.

Physical Requirements and Conditions

Everest High Pass Trek is strenuous trek ideal for passionate hikers who can walk at least 5-6 hours a day with light rucksack. Some days, you have to walk for more than 7-8 hours. Hiking at alpine altitude demands physical strength and great determination.
Trekking to Everest Three Pass does not require any technical skills and trekking experience however previous experience might be an asset.
You have to train for at least 2 months prior the trip. Some important training tips:
• Jogging for several hours carrying light rucksack
• Leg Cardio and Cycling
• Running, Swimming and other sports
If you have any pre-exiting medical issues like heart, lungs or blood disease, you must consult doctor prior the trip.

Accommodation at Everest Three Pass Trekking Trail

Everest Three Pass Trek is possible to conduct in fully teahouse mode. Advanced booking is usually not required though it is wise to book at peak season prior the trip. Room costs around USD 3-35 depending on facilities offered like basic rooms or luxury rooms with hot shower. With the increase in altitude, the room price increases and the services available decreases.
Though teahouses and hotels don’t provide wide menu, maximum teahouse offers items like soups, noodles, eggs, toasts, dal-bhaat meals, spaghetti etc. While some teahouses also offers exotica like pizza, steaks, apple pie etc. We suggest you to have Daal-Bhaat meal as it is said Daal-Bhaat Power 24 hour. Food cost per day would range USD 25 – 30.
If you are planning to trek Everest Three Pass at off-season, you must check the availability of teahouse and flight before the beginning of the trek. Basically, at winter, huge settlements from alpine altitude migrates to lowland to escape from cold. Likewise, flights often gets delayed at off-season because of bad weather.

Trekking Permits for Everest Three Pass Trek

Trekkers must obtain Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card that costs USD 20 for individual trekkers. The best place to buy Everest Three Pass permits is at Tourist Service Center located at Brikuti Mandap, Kathmandu; Phone Number- 01-4256909. You must carry original passport and two passport size photos.
You also need to obtain Sagarmatha National Park permit NPRS 3,000 for foreigners and NPRS 1,500 for SAARC citizens easily available at Tourist Service Center. You can buy Sararmatha National Permit at gate in Jorsale too.  

Best Season for Everest Three Pass Trek

September to November at autumn and March to May at spring are considered as the best season for Everest Three Pass Trek. The weather during these days are moderate suitable for hiking. Days are usually clear with best views.

Saturday, July 22, 2017

Nar Phu Tilicho Lake Trek- Off the Beaten Trekking Experience in Nepal


Tucked away far from Annapurna region, Nar Phu Tilicho Trek is ideal for those who have enough time and appetite to venture into some of pristine and beaten off trail & region beyond the regular trekking region of Nepal. Nar Phu Tilicho Lake Trekking takes you to the scheduled village, Nar & Phu and offer wilderness trekking at Annapurna circuit route to explore- Tilicho Lake Trek. Trekking in Nar Phu valley offers unique topography in Trans-Himalayan similar to that of Tibet. Similarly Tilicho Lake trek is the superb trail that leads you to the highest lakes of the world, Tilicho Lake.
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The Narphu Tilihco Lake Trail follows rugged path as you explore ancient Tibetan villages of Nar and Phu, cress Kang La Pass andj takes you to the pristine and less explored region to Tilicho Lake. It is one of challenging trail in Annapurna region and great alternative to the popular Thorung La Pass on the Annapurna circuit trek.
Nar Phu Tilicho Lake Trek is superb trekking experience that offers off beat cultural experience in remote Nepal and natural splendor of alpine mountain at one go. Trekking to Nar Phu Tilicho Lake is strenuous and demands high level of fitness and strong determination.

Outline Itinerary of Nar Phu Tilicho Lake Trek

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport (1,400m)
Day 02: Sightseeing of Kathmandu valley including UNSCEO designated sites
Day 03: Drive to Beshishar (830m)
Day 04: Drive to Dharapani (1,960m)
Day 05: Trek to Koto (2,600m)
Day 06: Trek to Dharmashala (3,220m)
Day 07: Trek to Chaku (3,772m)
Day 08: Trek to Phu (4,050m)
Day 09: Acclimatization day at Phu
Day 10: Trek to Nar (4,150m)
Day 11: Trek to Kang La Phedi (4,530m)
Day 12: Trek to Ngawal (3,670m) crossing Kang La Pass (5,280m)
Day 13: Trek to Manang (3,540m)
Day 14: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (3,734m)
Day 15: Trek to Tilicho Lake (4,949m)
Day 16: Trek to Yak Kharka (3,510m) via Tilicho Pass
Day 17: Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)
Day 18: Fly to Pokhara
Day 19: Drive back to Kathmandu
Day 20: Final Departure

Is This Trek For Me?

Nar Phu Tilicho Valley Trek is not for elderly people, children and medically challenged person. Since, the trek last for more than 2 weeks with hiking several hours in strenuous mountain terrain, a good fitness is the most. It is in fact an endurance test. If you have pre-exiting medical issues, you must consult the doctor prior the trip.
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For Nar Phu Tilicho Lake Trek, you don’t need any technical skills and previous trekking experience however past experience might be an asset. To gain the stamina and body strength, you must go through intense physical training at least 1 month prior the trek.
Training
  • Jogging for couple of weeks for several hours carrying backpack of at least 10 kg.
  • Running and swimming
  • Leg cardio and physical training
Highlights
  • Deep insight of Tibetan origin village Nar and Phu and close interaction with locals
  • Exceptional views of alpine landscapes and panorama
  • Great views entire Annapurna range
  • Stunning view of crystal Tilicho Lake- the highest lake in Nepal
  • True insight of remote Nepal where the nature, culture and tradition still remain intact
  • Joining the adventurous Annapurna Circuit Trek
  • Great participation in eco-tourism development of remote Nar Phu Village and Annapurna region of Nepal

What to Pack?


Complete gear list for Nar Phu Tilicho Lake Trek:
Clothing
  • Waterproof trekking boot with suitable ankle support
  • Sport shoes and casual shoes for walking and strolling around
  • 3 Pair of warm shocks and 3 pair of light socks
  • Down Jacket, Windproof Jacket and Water Jacket
  • Thermal Gloves
  • Hiking trousers and shorts. Thermal leggings for colder areas
  • Water-proof trousers
  • Hiking T-shirts and long sleeved shirts
  • Wool or fleece hat or balaclava
  • Large Handkerchief and Bandana for neck
Personal Trekking Gear
  • Strong rucksack or large hold for porter
  • Important documents like passport, pp size photo, travel documents and trekking permits and TIMS for Narphu Tilicho Lake Trek
  • Plastic bags or stuff sacks to prevent trekking gear inside the bag
  • 3-4 season sleeping bag, camera with extra batteries and charger
  • Towels and toiletries
  • Water purifier and Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and Earplugs
  • Trekking poles
Toiletries
  • Hand sanitizers and personal towel
  • Tooth brush and paste
Luxury Item
  • Binoculars, Books
  • Playing cards, backgammon and chess set
Personal First Aid Kit and Necessary Drugs
  • Aspirin, Moleskin, Adhesive Tape, Band-Aids, Scissor and Blade
  • Diamox, anti-headache, anti-stomachache and anti-diarrhea

Trekking Route of Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar (830m) - 6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 02: Drive to Dharapani (1960m) – 5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 03: Trek to Koto (2600m) – 6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 04: Trek to Dharmasala (3220m) – 6/7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 05: Trek to Chaku (3772m) – 6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 06: Trek to Phu (4050m) – 6/7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 07: Acclimatization Day at Phu
Day 08: Trek to Nar (4150m) – 7/8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 09: Trek to Kangla Phedi (4530) – 3 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 10: Trek to Manang (3540m) – 6/7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 11: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (3734m) – 6/7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 12: Trek to Tilicho Lake (4949m) – 5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 13: Pass Tilicho Lake and trek to Yak Kharka (3510m) – 8/9 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 14: Trek to Jomsom (2720m) – 5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight
Day 15: Fly to Pokhara (900m) – 20 minutes
Accommodation: Teahouse or Camp Overnight