Nepal is commonly referred to as the mecca of trekkers. And almost as if someone designed Nepal to be a hub for fulfilling trekking dreams, its location is truly ideal. With an abundance of circuits that nearly anyone could complete to routes that would be daunting to even the most experienced trekkers, Nepal has something for everyone.
As this fact has become widely known, trekking in Nepal has also become safe and organised. Just remember, when you intend to go on a guided trek you’ll always have to go through the official TAAN registered in Katmandu and Pokhara.
Landscape of Nepal. Pic credit: US Department of Agriculture.
Whether you decide to go for a leisurely stroll around Annapurna, one of the most well-known mountains with routes suitable for beginners, or a challenging trek to the summit Mt. Manaslu, the 8th highest peak in the world, you should prepare accordingly. You don’t want to find yourself caught in an area that requires a permit and nor do you want to end up with sore feet due to poor quality hiking boots.
Further deserving the praise as a trekkers’ paradise, you can find accommodations and supplies along nearly every route at a very convenient rate. If you’re on a shorter hike, you might be looking for a cheaper option with a very simple lodging, or a (by Nepal standards) luxurious guest house.
While trekking in Nepal you are sure to enjoy many marvellous sights and meet wonderful people from all around the world. Being disconnected from the modern society can really enable you to view the world in a different light.
Of course, when you stumble on to the occasional guest or tea-houses that also provide the internet, you might be surprised how some people are checking on their Facebook as if they were at home in their couch, doing some online gambling as if they were in Vegas or making work-related calls as if the amazement of the Nepali mountains weren’t unfolding before their very eyes.
Nepal truly is a trekking mecca.