Trekking is the most popular activity in Nepal and is the best
way to experience the natural splendour and cultural riches of the
Himalayas. Differences in altitude support a wide range of
vegetation types and lifestyles and famous peaks shelter remote
mountain villages that are untouched by modern ways of life.
Most treks follow well-used foot trails that have been in use
for hundreds of years, connecting pastoral settlements, little
mountain villages of stone and wood, and monasteries, temples and
shrines. Trekking is not a solitary wilderness experience, as
trails are shared with pilgrims and traders driving fully laden
yaks or donkeys over the high mountain passes. Herders and other
parties of tourists can also provide some company, along with their
guides and quick-footed porters beneath their enormous loads.
Trails cross high over rivers on swaying suspension bridges,
meandering up valleys and past green terraced fields, through
Tibetan-style stone hamlets a-flutter with colourful prayer flags,
where ancient prayer wheels on the main route are kept spinning by
the stream of passers by.
Whatever region one chooses to trek in, the magnificent scenery
is always dominated by soaring heights and icy mountain peaks.
Different regions allow a range of trekking options, from easy
walking for a few days to strenuous expeditions lasting a few
weeks, from circular routes around the Annapurnas, to summit
assaults on Mount Everest. There are also different approaches to
trekking in Nepal, depending on time, money and experience.
Organised, all-inclusive treks include porters, guides, cooks,
tents, equipment and transport, and provide comfort and security as
well as eliminating lengthy preparations beforehand. Teahouse treks
follow the most popular trekking routes in the entire Annapurna
region, Langtang area and the Everest region, and allow walkers to
make their own way from village to village, carrying minimal
equipment and relying on 'teahouses' for food and accommodation. It
is also possible to hire a guide and/or porters for these
expeditions. For those wanting to get away from it all there are
also many less-developed routes in more remote regions.
A trekking permit is no longer required in many regions,
including the popular Annapurna, Everest and Langtang areas;
however a fee must be paid to trek in a designated national park,
conservation area or wildlife reserve, which can be paid at the
entrance (Rs 1,000 or Rs 2,000 for most areas). The Annapurna
region requires the fee to be paid in advance at the ACAP office in
Kathmandu or Pokhara (Rs 2,000), which goes towards environment
conservation and maintenance of the area.
