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Wednesday, December 13, 2006

About trek in Nepal

The two trekking areas of Annapurna and Everest complement each other perfectly. In both these regions we trek utilising comfortable lodge-based accommodation and this program highlights the unique physical and cultural diversity of this exceptional country. From Kathmandu we fly to Pokhara, in the Annapurna region, and begin our trek at Naya Phul in sub-tropical surroundings. We ascend through the terraced paddies and fields of wheat of the local Hindu and Buddhist villages, before passing through a beautiful forest of oak and rhododendron to emerge onto high open ridges that afford breathtaking views of both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

In contrast, the Everest trek starts where the Annapurna trek leaves off, and after flying into Lukla, we are almost above the altitude reached on the Annapurna trek. The trek follows the Dudh Kosi valley passing through small settlements and pockets of pine and rhododendron forest to the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar. Here we experience the rugged terrain of this alpine region trekking in the heart of the mountains surrounded by towering snow-covered Himalayan peaks. From Namche we follow the prayer flags, mani walls and chortens of this Buddhist region, to Thyangboche Monastery, the highpoint of the trek which lies in the shadow of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.
Itinerary
Days 1-2 (Sat) Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel. Visit Pashupatinath and Boudhnath. Free time to explore.
Days 3-4 Fly to Pokhara, drive to foothills and commence trek. Walk up to Gandruk village.
Days 5-6 Trek up through forests to Tadapani, then above tree line to Deurali. Optional walk to high point for sunset views of three 8000-metre-high mountains.
Day 7 Return to high point for sunrise. Trek to Gorepani, descend on ancient trading route.
Days 8-9 Drive to Pokhara. Full day to explore.
Day 10 Fly to Kathmandu.
Day 11 Spectacular mountain flight to Lukla. Start trek along Dudh Kosi river valley to Phakding.
Days 12-13 Walk to Monjo. Ascend to Namche Bazaar.
Day 14 Acclimatisation day. Optional walks towards Thami or visit Sherpa Museum.
Day 15 Trek to Thyangboche Monastery. In fine weather, superb views of Ama Dablam, Kantega, Everest, Lhotse and Nupste.
Days 16-18 Trek back to Lukla, via Khumjung and Kunde. Possible visit to Hillary Hospital.
Days 19-20 Fly to Kathmandu. Free time to explore.
Day 21 Trip ends in Kathmandu this morning (Fri).