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Beautiful Villages in Nepal

The rural villages in Nepal are where you’ll find true authenticity and warmth if you’re there to immerse yourself in the culture and daily life of the endearing locals.

We take great satisfaction in our expertise in guided trekking in Nepal, and we have thoughtfully planned our experiences to make sure that we visit the villages along the hiking paths and help them. Our aim is to give you a true understanding of Nepali culture and help you live it sustainably. So that you can feel as though you’ve contributed in some tiny way to the lives of others who are less fortunate.There are several beautiful villages in Nepal, some of which are as follow

Ghandruk

In Nepal’s Annapurna area is the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk. It is renowned for both its rich cultural legacy and its breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna mountain range. The village, which is 1,940 meters above sea level, provides a fascinating look into the Gurung people’s daily lives.

Because of its thick forests and breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna mountain range, Ghandruk is renowned for its picturesque natural surroundings. Hikers can explore the nearby woodland regions while admiring the breathtaking mountain vistas. Visitors can observe how the Gurung people still engage in traditional farming on the several small farms spread throughout the village.

Ghandruk is well known for its amiable and polite residents in addition to its natural beauty and cultural history. The Gurung people take pride in showing guests around their culture and customs and are widely known for their gracious hospitality. Ghandruk is an extraordinary and gorgeous village that provides visitors with a rich and genuine experience.

Gokyo

Gokyo is a small settlement found in Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park. It is surrounded by magnificent glaciers and lakes and is located at a height of 4,700 meters above sea level. Trekkers and hikers who want to take in the breathtaking views and explore the nearby mountains and forests frequently travel to the town.

The six nearby glacial lakes together referred as as the Gokyo Lakes are one of Gokyo’s key draws. Both the lakes’ stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and their crystal-clear waters are renowned for their beauty. The area also has a number of historic monasteries, which adds to the pleasant and peaceful environment. The traditional way of life in Gokyo is also accessible to tourists thanks to the people.

Gokyo is home to a rich cultural heritage in addition to its natural beauty. The Sherpa people, who are renowned for their diligence and friendliness, predominately live in the area. The mountaineering abilities of the Sherpa people have contributed significantly to the growth of Nepal’s tourism industry.

Gokyo is a fantastic place that expertly mixes calm, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. It is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and experience the beauty of nature and traditional culture.

Phortse

At the foot of a Taboche is the charming village of Phortse. Phortse, a tranquil village in Nepal’s Khumbu region, is well renowned for having the most Tahr and Snow Leopard. It is located at 3,950 meters above sea level. After crossing the Dudhkoshi River, it takes several hours of arduous uphill walking to reach Phortse.

This Sherpa settlement is only 4 kilometers and 5.7 kilometers from Sagarmatha National Park, respectively. That suggests that trekkers may reach this village from Namche with ease. The Namche-Phortse trail is popular among hikers due to its small distance. Autumn and spring are the best seasons to travel to this little town near Mount Everest.

Namchee Bazar

On the Everest Base Camp Trek, Namche Bazaar, a lovely Sherpa settlement in Solukhumbu, is thought to be the ideal location for acclimatization. The tallest peak in the world, Mount Everest, is reachable from here and measures 3,440 meters in height. You will reach Namche after taking a flight to Lukla and traveling for two days on foot via a variety of locations, including Phakding and Monjo.

The tallest Irish bar in the world is located in Namche, a popular tourist destination. Visit the Saturday market instead; it’s better. You may enjoy the stunning views of Mount Everest, Thamserku, Kusum Kangaru, Kongde Ri, and many more mountains from Namche. If you go to Namche, don’t skip the challenging treks. It’s worthwhile to take in the Everest and other peak views while eating a leisurely Sherpa breakfast.

Chitlang

In Nepal, there is a small community called Chitlang that is close to Kathmandu. Additionally, it is renowned for its massive temples, a profusion of natural hot springs, and tranquil environs. There are a number of ancient temples and monasteries in the area, which provide insight into the locals’ spiritual practices.

The temple honoring the Hindu god Shiva is one of Chitlang’s most well-known landmarks. The temple is popular with the general public as a site of worship and welcomes a sizable number of visitors each year. Visitors particularly benefit from the temple’s serene environment, which is surrounded by luxuriant foliage and trees.

The area around the town of Chitlang’s natural hot springs is another popular spot. Visitors can take in the surrounding mountains as they unwind in the warm water. The hot springs are a popular location for people looking for all-natural treatments for a range of ailments since they are said to have therapeutic powers.

Chitlang is well-known for its hot springs and temples in addition to its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking scenery. The area is surrounded by lush mountains and forests, giving it the ideal place to get away from the bustle of the city. Hiking, birdwatching, and picnics are just a few of the outdoor activities that visitors can partake in in Chitlang’s stunning natural environment.

Jhinu

Small village Jhinu is situated in Nepal’s Annapurna area. It is renowned for its incomparable vistas of the Annapurna mountain range and its natural hot springs. The town is a well-liked destination for trekkers and hikers due to its elevation of 1,780 meters above sea level.

Jhinu’s natural hot springs, which are thought to have therapeutic qualities, are one of its main draws. Visitors can unwind in the hot springs while taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains around. After a strenuous day of hiking, both locals and visitors enjoy relaxing in the hot springs.

Jhinu is known for its natural hot springs as well as various venerable temples and monasteries. These religious locations provide a window into the locals’ spiritual lives. The rich cultural and religious heritage of Nepal can be discovered by visitors as they tour the historic temples and monasteries.

Overall, Jhinu is a quaint and tranquil community that provides a rare synthesis of unspoiled natural beauty and cultural diversity. It is a must-see location for everyone visiting the Annapurna region because of its natural hot springs and historic temples.

If you really wish to visit the locations mentioned above and experience Zip flying, we have got you covered.

Cost includes:

  • Arrival & Departure transport via private Car/Van/Bus.
  • Three meals per day throughout the Trip(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation during the trek.
  • Nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with B/B.
  • Guide and a porter with Insurance, food, and accommodations.
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara valley with a car and tour guide
  • First Aid kit.
  • Trekking permit (Conservation fee).
  • TIMS card (Trekking information management system) is like a permit.
  • All needed government tax/vat.

Cost excludes:

  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Sightseeing entrance fees
  • Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days and US$ 30 for 15 days; you should get a visa open your arrival)
  • Any kind of drinks, items of personal expenses like hot shower, battery charge, telephone, missing meal, WIFI Porters, etc.
  • Tips for Guide and Porters

After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.

We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.

Finally, we will transfer you to Pokhara’s domestic airport after breakfast for your flight back home to Kathmandu. Furthermore, if you are flying back home from Kathmandu today, please schedule your flight to depart no earlier than 11 am to ensure you’ll have enough time to catch your flight.

 

 

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Trekking to the Gokyo Lakes

Want to experience the natural side of Nepal while experiencing mental and spiritual bliss? Get ready for a mind-blowing, once-in-a-lifetime trek of the pristine Gokyo lakes. In Nepal, the sparkling waters of the Gokyo Lakes, the world’s highest freshwater lake system, make for a truly unforgettable experience. At an altitude of more than 3,800 meters, they are among the most picturesque sights of Nepal.

If you are looking for a trek in Everest’s region but would like to see more of this magnificent land and not spend a lot of time at extremely high altitudes, the Gokyo Lakes Trek may be for you. I, too, have been an adventure seeker for quite a few years. But, despite all the amazing places that I traveled to during these past few years, none were quite mesmerizing and memorable, to be honest.

To this day, the Gokyo trek that I attempted with five of my very close friends remains on our minds as a destination we’d like to revisit to refresh those beautiful memories. Though this quest might seem challenging, the long walks, the beautiful scenery, and the aesthetic locations will surely tempt you to experience the same adventure in the future. And to be honest, you better plan this trip as soon as possible.

About Gokyo

Gokyo is a beautiful village located at the base of the mountain Gokyo Ri, at Dudh Pokhari Lake, the largest of the three Gokyo lakes, and within Solukhumbu District in the Himalayas of the Himalayas Nepal. Despite the closeness of Gokyo as a village, the trek is centered on it, and the beautiful tributaries are named after it. 

The trip consists of hikes through the beautiful Gokyo lakes and the peak of Gokyo Ri at around 5,357 meters or 17,575 feet. As mentioned earlier, this area consists of multiple beautiful lakes, many of them named after the Gokyo village, among which Gokyo Rho or Dudh Pokhari is the largest.

How do I prepare for the trek to the Gokyo region?

As mentioned earlier, the maximum elevation of the trek is more than 5,000 meters. Now, this altitude surely presents us with some complications, the first of which is the weather and temperature. The temperature can get extremely cold in the region. 

Thus, you will need to walk constantly for many days in a cold climate. Therefore, you will need to bring along the following materials.

  • Warm clothes, including jackets, sweaters, and thermal wears
  • Well-fitting gloves, socks, and shoes or boots
  • Water bottles and thermos
  • Trekking sticks
  • Portable fire stoves
  • Snow Glasses and flashlight
  • Moisturizers and lip guard

All of these items mentioned above are ideal for the expedition, though not all of them are essential. Many hotels and homestays provide these items on the Gokyo trek, though they might be more expensive than average. 

Along with these supplies, there’s another essential thing to think about during this trek. Before embarking on this journey, it is important to take all the necessary precautions since traveling to such an extreme elevation may result in altitude sickness or even breathlessness. Therefore, people with lung issues or similar conditions should avoid the trip.

Getting Started on the trip

The trek to the Gokyo is quite similar to the trek to the Everest base camp. So, if you’ve been to the Base Camp of the mighty Everest, Gokyo would really be easier for you compared to a random explorer. However, if you follow the guide that I compiled with the help of my friends from the Gokyo trip, it’d be easier for you to navigate the journey.

Before your trek starts officially, there are a few things one should take care of. First, if you’re a foreign traveler, you will need to get a Nepalese visa and travel to Kathmandu, Nepal. Now, if you’re in Kathmandu or any other place in Nepal, you need to fly to Lukla. From there, you can start your thrilling journey.

Starting in Phakding, you can hike to Namche Bazar, the gateway to Everest. Once you reach the destination, you can stay in a hotel or a homestay for two days so that your body can adapt to the altitude and weather.

While your body adapts to 3,400 meters of altitude, you could make the most of your time in Namche Bazaar on the second day by visiting the beautiful villages of Khumjung and Thame and the wonderful people of the Sherpa community.

You need to reach Dole on day four, climbing 800 meters of the upward hill for approximately five hours. This is the path that separates the Gokyo trek from the trek to the Everest Base Camp.

Though the trek from Dole to Machhermo is not as long as others, this 3-hour hike consists of difficult ascending paths. However, the beautiful scenery along the way will definitely make your time worthwhile.

Similar to your second day, it'll be better if you take another rest day in Machhermo to adapt to the conditions of Gokyo. This might be the last rest day on tour.

Now, when you reach Gokyo after a six-hour hike from Machhermo, you better visit all the wonderful locations that the place offers for the next three days. A good place to start might be by visiting the Gokyo Lakes.

On day eight, it would be best if you took a day-long hike to the fifth lake at an altitude of 4,956 meters. It would take about seven hours. However, you'll get to enjoy the breathtaking locations that this gorgeous place contains.

If you dare, the ninth day would be perfect for a trek to Phangan and the summit of Gokyo Ri. Here, you'll experience the joy of living that only a few people in the world get.

After all the thrill and exceptional memories, it's time to return back home. Since the trip back consists of downhill paths, you can reach Khumjung in six hours from Phangan.

On day eleven, a 2-hour trek will be enough to reach Namche Bazaar. Spend the night there.

On this road, you get to enjoy the beauty of Solukhumbu as you reach Phakding for the penultimate day of the trek.

For the final day, a 4-hour walk down from Phakding will take you back to Lukla. Be sure to get some souvenirs and gifts for your friends or family before heading back home.

Cost includes:

  • Arrival & Departure transport via private Car/Van/Bus.
  • Three meals per day throughout the Trip(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation during the trek.
  • Nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with B/B.
  • Guide and a porter with Insurance, food, and accommodations.
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara valley with a car and tour guide
  • First Aid kit.
  • Trekking permit (Conservation fee).
  • TIMS card (Trekking information management system) is like a permit.
  • All needed government tax/vat.

Cost excludes:

  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Sightseeing entrance fees
  • Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days and US$ 30 for 15 days; you should get a visa open your arrival)
  • Any kind of drinks, items of personal expenses like hot shower, battery charge, telephone, missing meal, WIFI Porters, etc.
  • Tips for Guide and Porters

After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.

We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.

A couple of weeks of excitement will leave you with memories you’ll cherish for life.

Finally, the trek to Gokyo can be an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience because of the stunning scenery and stellar views, along with the warm hospitality of the locals. We hope you enjoy and take in every moment that you spend there.

 

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9 of the Best Mountain Treks in Nepal

A paradise remains a dream for many, but Nepal, a nation known for its beauty, is not far off from being a very close second. Wandering through luscious green forests, trekking through picturesque rivers, and enjoying gorgeous mountain scenery are just some of the reasons why so many adventurers return to Nepal. 

Many peeps visit Nepal for the beauty of the mountains, striving to climb or trek in the Himalayas, while others are fascinated by the culture of the city of Kathmandu, Chitwan, Pokhara, or any other, while still many hope to achieve spiritual awakening. Furthermore, Nepal can be all of those things whether you want a life-changing experience, an adrenaline rush, or a cultural experience.

Whether you’re an adventurer, an explorer, or just a trekking enthusiast from Nepal or any other corner of the world, you’d be happy to learn about all the amazing trekking destinations in Nepal. So, explore our list of Nepal’s top attractions to learn about the best places to visit in Nepal for trekking purposes.

If you’re in a hurry, we have compiled a shortlist of some of the best trekking routes in Nepal. Hopefully, this will help you decide on the trekking destination for you.

  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  • Langtang Trek
  • Trek to the Everest Base camp
  • Makalu Base Camp
  • Manaslu Mountain Circuit Trek
  • Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
  • Trek to the Shey Phoksundo Lake
  • Nar Phu Valley Trek
  • Trek of the Gokyo Lake

The trekking trails mentioned above are sure to make for a great trip. However, if you’re not convinced yet, let’s discuss them a bit more.

Annapurna Base Camp trek 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a classic trekking route in Nepal that introduces you to the skyscraping mountaintops, the gorgeous range of landscapes, and the lush Rhododendron forest. Trekking the Annapurna mountain range base camp would be ideal if you seek a holiday and enjoy mother earth’s gifts and experience a physically and spiritually fulfilling journey.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May (Mild Weather) and from late September to early December (Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 15 days
  • Starting Point: Nayapul
  • Maximum Altitude: 5416 meters at Thorong La Pass
  • Trek Permits: ACAP, TIMS
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse and Homestays
  • Difficulty: Moderately Difficult

Langtang Trek

A trekking trip to Langtang is one of the most rewarding activities in the Langtang region. The quaint mountain villages, varied climatic conditions, and inspiring and challenging walks provide a memorable experience.

A short distance from Kathmandu, you will be able to see glaciers and snow-capped mountains, as well as pine forests, stony streams, boulders, grasslands, and wide pastures. You will also have panoramic views of Mount Langtang-Ri, Langtang Himal, and Gajala Peak.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May (Mild Weather) and from October to November(Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately eight days
  • Starting Point: Syabrubesi
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,984 meters at tserko Ri
  • Trek Permits: No
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse 
  • Difficulty: Moderately Difficult

Trek to the Everest Base camp

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking routes. Many tourists visit Nepal to enjoy the captivating mountain views of the Sagarmatha region. The trek begins in Lukla, a short flight from Kathmandu.

Along with Sherpa culture and antique monasteries, you will explore different glaciers and have the opportunity to see hanging icicles and beautiful landscapes on the route.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May (Mild Weather) and from October to November(Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 14 days
  • Starting Point: Lukla
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,600 meters at Kala Patthar
  • Trek Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse 
  • Difficulty: Moderately Difficult

Trek of the Makalu Base Camp 

Due to its remote topography, Makalu Base Camp is a less frequent trek route. The trek takes you to the foothills of 8481 meters at Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest mountain. Throughout the trek, a short flight from the capital will take you to Tumlingtar, whence you will pass through the vibrant forests of Rhododendrons, and along the way, you will spot the Rai community living in the lower elevations, as well as the Sherpas who live in the higher mountains.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May (Mild Weather) and from October to November(Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 20 days
  • Starting Point: Tumlingtar
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,250 meters at Shersong Ridge
  • Trek Permits: TIMS, Makalu Barun National Park Permit
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse 
  • Difficulty: Difficult

Manaslu Mountain Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is popular and physically demanding in Nepal. However, it offers uplifting mountain scenery and a great series of jungles that head into the wild. In this trek, you can witness epic views of the Himalayas while crossing many suspension bridges as you trek around Mount Manaslu, which is the eighth-highest peak in Nepal. 

  • Preferable Season: From March to May and from September to December
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 14 days
  • Starting Point: Soti Khola
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,160 meters at Larkya Pass
  • Trek Permits: TIMS, MCAP, and RAP
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse 
  • Difficulty: Difficult

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

In all likelihood, trekking to Kanchenjunga is one of the best things to do in Nepal. It is an amazing adventure that takes you to the third-highest peak in the world. The hike then takes you to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, a place where endangered species can be seen.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May and from October to November(Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 21 days
  • Starting Point: Mitlung
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,250 meters at Shersong Ridge
  • Trek Permits: RAP, TACAP
  • Accommodation Type: Camping 
  • Difficulty: Difficult

Trek to the Shey Phoksundo Lake

There is no doubt Shey Phoksundo Lake is one of the most beautiful freshwater lakes in Nepal because of its turquoise waters. The crystal-clear water is as if nature is being painted on a stunning canvas. 

In addition to visiting the pristine lake of Phoksundo, the remote portion of the trek in Nepal gives you a glimpse of Nepal’s preserved culture and Tibetan culture around the Dolpo region and the spectacular Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri ranges.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May and from October to November(Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately nine days
  • Starting Point: Juphal
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,589 meters
  • Trek Permits: RAP, TACAP
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse 
  • Difficulty: Moderately Difficult

Nar Phu Valley Trek

Trekking in the Nar Phu Valley starts from Jagat along the popular Annapurna Circuit Trail and branches off to Koto in an off-the-beaten-path, high-altitude valley containing ancient villages. The trek offers people unique Himalayan and Tibetan culture and a wide variety of Buddhist cultures in the Trans Himalayas and High plateau rock formations and glaciers.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May and from October to November(Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 18 days
  • Starting Point: Jagat
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,416 meters
  • Trek Permits: RAP, ACAP
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse 
  • Difficulty: Difficult

Trek of the Gokyo Lake

After Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal, Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is the most sought-after trek among trekkers and adventurers. This hike offers breathtaking views of the four highest peaks in the world at the same time: Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho-Oyu, and Mt. Lhotse.

  • Preferable Season: From March to May and from October to November (Cold Weather)
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 12 days
  • Starting Point: Tumlingtar
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,357 meters at Gokyo Ri
  • Trek Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
  • Accommodation Type: Teahouse 
  • Difficulty: Difficult

As a whole, trekking in Nepal is one of the most popular adventures in the world. Every trek in Nepal has a unique trail and offers a variety of experiences; however, the nine best treks in Nepal mentioned above are based on the popularity of the trails among visitors.

Cost includes:

  • Arrival & Departure transport via private Car/Van/Bus.
  • Three meals per day throughout the Trip(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation during the trek.
  • Nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with B/B.
  • Guide and a porter with Insurance, food, and accommodations.
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara valley with a car and tour guide
  • First Aid kit.
  • Trekking permit (Conservation fee).
  • TIMS card (Trekking information management system) is like a permit.
  • All needed government tax/vat.

Cost excludes:

  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Sightseeing entrance fees
  • Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days and US$ 30 for 15 days; you should get a visa open your arrival)
  • Any kind of drinks, items of personal expenses like hot shower, battery charge, telephone, missing meal, WIFI Porters, etc.
  • Tips for Guide and Porters

After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.

We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.