So, you too have decided to start a new chapter in your life after Covid -19, what better way other than strolling through the amazing landscape of Himalayas and letting yourself away from the psychological trauma that you have bore throughout the global pandemic. 

Trekking in Nepal is as usual, open to welcome you with open arms; always a serene land that eases off your psychological conflict as well as gives you a boost in confidence and raises self-esteem of certain feelings of major achievement during the toughest hour of life.

Here are some reasons why even after Corona fear, Nepal still stands as the best idea or destination for Trekking around the globe:

Hospitality:

International tourists who were stuck during the global lockdown experienced unique and one of the most anxious periods of their time. 

No one was certain of what a simple “tomorrow” had in store for them. Nepali hospitality – even before the pandemic was an example to the world, came forth to the rescue. 

Humble and always warm towards fellow human, Nepali people regardless of their positions were at their very best in serving and making the lives of the foreign friends somewhat at ease. Free meal campaigns, daily local food sharing activities were commenced to provide essentials for living for the stranded in the country. 

Improved transportation facility

Well, while the world was reset, Nepal also experienced a new wave of reformation in its road system. During the empty road conditions, 

Nepal government took it upon them as the opportunity to construct smooth new roads and properly repair and mend old ones. 

Dusty roads in and around major tourist areas are mostly reformed considering the visibility of the sceneries and the health of the visitors. It is also the best time for long rides.

Less crowd 

I guess by the time you read this writing, a few thousand tourists would have probably landed in Nepal. And a few hundred are already on their way to some of the most popular trekking destinations in the world such as Annapurna Base Camp, Makalu Base Camp, Langtang, Manaslu Base camp. 

And yes, probably a few hundred have scaled the route of Everest Base camp. In a normal year, there would have been some hundred thousand tourists, making these destinations some of the most crowded ones in the adventure world. 

Thus, this is the perfect time to pack your back and head towards Nepali mountains and enjoy the views, landscape, take some time to understand the lives, and spend the majority of time in the land of Mountains – undisturbed, unadulterated, and untouched.

Economic support

Nepal is rich in many aspects – and yet, in terms of economy, it stands as one of the least rich countries in the world. Tourism covers a large portion of the Nepali economy – as it does not only covers your arrival entry fees but also the local livelihoods; expenses that may sound pity for the foreigners – such as purchasing souvenirs, feasting at the local eateries, donations for local musical performances, or just simply taking pictures and letting the world know about the true Nepali beauties, everything really matters and actually helps. 

Global pandemic has obviously shown us a dark side of nature, however, it also is a perfect reason to celebrate the humanity that bodes around people who are hopeful, helpful, and adventurous. 

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Government at the helm 

The Government of Nepal has been pretty serious recently regarding Covid 19. By the end of February, Nepal has entered the second phase of a successful vaccination campaign against the virus. 

Front line workers such as cleaners, media person, medical personals were the recipient in the first phase, whereas, people involved in hospitality industries, academic institutions, basic service sectors officials are in the process of getting vaccines.

 Apart from this, a national announcement to strictly follow Covid 19 protocols along with proper health help desks are set up for the tourists. Strict directives are formulated at airports, travel agencies, tourist hubs and hotels to ensure safety and security of the travelers. 

Mandatory test

You can travel to Nepal given that you provide the valid documentation of your health status regarding the Coronavirus. Foreigners or any travelers entering the country have to demonstrate that they are not affected of Covid 19. Proper details for contact tracing are to be provided along with a valid PCR test within 72 hours of travel. 

Point to note is that you will receive a visa on arrival, this provision has not changed even within the Covid 19 context.

Humility and hospitality:

Few incidents in some parts of Nepal were reported where foreigners were threatened and intimidated by locals at the beginning of the pandemic. Those are usually due to misconception of the disease and confusion created at the situation of hassle and global lockdown. Nepal sets a high standard in their openness towards fellow humans, and visitors and tourists are treated as god. There are few dos and don’ts which normally are applicable in anywhere you travel away from your native country.

Safety

Nepal is one of few among the safest countries to travel. A safe haven for solo travelers regardless of your gender, numbers of tourists are surely increasing as the days progress. However, for safety concerns especially in the context of fewer people travelling in some of the remote trekking routes, it is advised for now not to travel alone off the beat tracks. Using reputable agencies, sticking with established routes and travel in companion is highly recommended at the moment. 

You can visit Nepal government official tourism sites for the list of travel agencies. 

Other health concerns:

Travelers may suffer from altitude sickness while ascending the highlands in the mountains. Proper gears – their use and usages, adequate acclimatization cycle, proper safety measures, first aid treatment basics, along with acquisition of adequate information, appropriate equipment is mandatory. Local authorities are available in urban as well as countryside. 

Always be prepared for some unthinkable incidences such as :

• sudden weather changes
• avalanches and snow drifts
• landslides and flooding
• glacial crevasses and hollows
• rockfall
• thunderstorms and lightning
• altitude sickness
• sun exposure

Expect the unexpected: 

Travelling through some of the toughest terrain in the world can take much longer than anticipated. Flights across the country, especially at high altitude may experience delay. Poor weather conditions can cause the delays or even cancellation. It is ideal to keep your tour planners contacted and you yourselves informed about the weathers, people and assistance from the local authorities.

Criminal activities:

Crime rate in Nepal is relatively low. Non-disturbed supply of electricity, proper lighting systems are common in urban areas. You should avoid poorly lit areas, especially when you are traveling alone. Use of electronic currencies and keeping valuables safely will do the magic. 

If you face any difficulties or problems regarding your safety, you can contact your tour agency and also reach the Tourist Police at Kathmandu via 014 700750 or 014 247041.

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There are lots of amazing places to explore in Nepal. The recent Visit Nepal 2020 campaign also has been one of the major tourist attractions this year. The campaign is designed to facilitate the visitors with advanced facilities and improved experience while in their visit to Nepal.

1. Bandipur

Bandipur is a mesmerizing town located between Kathmandu and Pokhara. With clean alleys, ancient architecture and restricted movement of vehicles, Bandipur is sure to give you a bit of a European flavor. It is a typical Newari town with scenic and cultural beauty.

2. Kathmandu valley

Kathmandu valley is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in Nepal. The places like Budhanilkantha, Tokha, Kakani, Saankhu, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Bouddha Stupa, Changu Narayan Temple, Pashupati Temple, Swoyambhunath Stupa, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Kirtipur, Bungmati, Godavari, Chandragiri, etc., attracts huge number of tourists every year.

3. Pokhara

Located towards 200 kilometers west of Nepal, is the centre of adventures- Pokhara. The exciting activities like paragliding, ultralight aircraft, bungee jumping, zip-line ride, boating, cycling, canoeing and fishing are something to not miss out on while traveling to Nepal. Along with the adventure activities, Pokhara is also a viewpoint for wide range of mountains.

Pokhara Boting

4. Annapurna Trekking region

Annapurna Trekking region is a trekking fantasy of trekkers worldwide. The destination is famous among the adventure lovers and intrepid travellers since it offers them with an enchanting experience of diverse cultures and stunning landscapes. Furthermore, Thorang-La Pass, one of the highest passes on earth at an altitude of 5.415 metres also falls on this region.

Annapurna region

5. Lumbini

Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha and one of the most popular religious sites in Nepal. You will experience an overwhelming journey of calmness as you traverse through the beautiful architecture, serene religious chants and soothing environment of monasteries there. Lumbini is one of the most famous cultural sites in Nepal as it is the birthplace of Buddha. The enchanting vibes of this place takes you through a serene experience as you traverse through ancient architecture, temples and monasteries.

6. Chitwan

This is the perfect destination for you if you are looking forward to sight seeing, some adventure activities along with experiencing the wonders of wildlife. Chitwan National Park, the first national park of Nepal which has a diverse wildlife is also located here.

7. Manang, Mustang, Dolpa and Langtang

What makes Nepal more beautiful is snow-capped mighty Himalayas standing tall on the northern region of Nepal. Manang, Mustang and Langtang are some of the most beautiful places in the north. These places witness beautiful sunrise through the snow white mountains and breathtakingly beautiful glaciers flows crystal clear water. 

Langtang trekking in Nepal

8. Daman

Daman is a perfect point to enjoy panoramic views of many mountains. It is located 78 kilometres south of Kathmandu at an altitude of 2.322 metres from the sea level. Daman is more beautiful in snowfall and many tourists visit this place to have fun in the snow.

9. Tansen

Tansen is best known as the town of ancient temples, beautiful sunrise, captivating mountain views and stunning landscapes. Dhaka topis are the famous product of Tansen. Rani Mahal in Tansen is also known as the Taj Mahal of Nepal. 

These are some of my favorite places to visit in Nepal. I hope these ideas help you to plan your trip to Nepal. Happy Traveling!

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Trekking

Nepal is the land of climbing mountains. Whether you are a hiker or not if you want to enjoy the majestic mountains, their epitome of beauty and winds. Then you need to be prepared for trekking in Nepal. There are short treks, and then there are greater treks that take up to a period of 12 whooping days. If you are visiting Nepal for more than a week, then you can go for the Everest-trekking camp or the Manaslu adventure trekking camp with a guide to explore Nepal at its best.

Flights over the Himalayas 

As trekking sounds cool and all that. It is also very hard to trek all the way to the mountains and back. Some people get bored with climbing and tiredness strikes them good. This can often make your mood fall. 

But there are many other ways to explore the Himalayas and all the Nepal’s attractions. You can take a mountain flight tour easily that is available for tourists to enjoy the mountain peaks and true Himalayan beauty. Popular mountain peaks are discovered through these tours, and you can cover many sites in just one or two days!

A Visit to the Zoos and National Parks

There is a national park in Nepal called the Chitwan National Park. It is a must-see sight for the beholders. There are over thousands of species in one surface area, and you can certainly spend 2-3 days over there to explore the whole park aka zoo and also stay in the Chitwan hotels. 

The animals that have made a home over there have been endangered all over the world, but the last of some animal’s species are preserved in this park for years. The migratory birds, Indian tigers and many more are still over there.

Mountain biking

Mountain biking is not everyone’s call. But anyone would love to take the mountain biking tours in the heart of the Himalayas as they are really fun and challenging. This way, you can explore the valleys and famous roads that have amazing and majestic views. 

The sceneries and trails are easier options to explore through mountain biking. The whole ride is not hard only specific patches come in between where you have to keep your speed to the minimum and ride carefully through. The Kathmandu bike tours in Nepal are the most famous ones. 

Sight seeing tours

There are many temples and monasteries in the scenic lands of Nepal. They constructed decades ago, and people come to visit them all the time. Some have pure beliefs, so they enjoy the rituals, and some take pictures, eat and enjoy the architecture. 

The best tours for sightseeing are the visit to the temples of Pashupatinath and the Koshi River. The river gives the best rafting and boating adventures for your trip. The classic Nepal tours and Trisuli river rafting tours are the best there is to offer. 

Trishuli-River-Rafting

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1. DIY or outfitter?

Do it yourself or outfitter decision is on your experience with the mountains. Your trip is in order with an independent trekking guide Company as well as a local company. It all depends on your comfort, whether you prefer certified guides or local standard guides. Both can be appreciated depending upon your experience and choice.

2. Understand the basic of Altitude

Treks in Himalaya go to a very great extent, while in with us, only the tallest two reaches that certain height. If you are not adequately prepared and show a little negligence, then it can lead to multiple deaths. All the trekkers should do some research and know-how to avoid, understand, and deal with high altitude illness. Any ignorant behavior can cause death.

3. Weather forecasts

Another tip before you go for your trekking is to check the weather forecast. Sometimes it seems like pleasant weather but you never what’s waiting for you. Keep on checking the prediction even during your trekking because a few mishaps had happened during the last few years just because of the sudden bad weather.

4. Communications

Now, this is a common thing; you do not have signals at such high Altitude, so you cannot use mobile phones or any other devices to communicate. Excellent communication is vital during your trek, so you can keep checking the weather, follow someone updated on your location or call for an emergency. There are some satellite networks, especially for that purpose and also emergency locator devices, so study them before you leave for your trek.

5. Join global rescue

There are many reasons why you might suddenly need help right away during your trek. Having a helicopter rescue makes your trip much safer, but it is a costly rescue to have. So join global relief before going for trekking, it sends quick rescue on emergencies. It is also less expensive than helicopter rescues. You should always have a backup plan while going for trekking because you might experience dangerous situations, as it’s not very safe to trek on high mountains.

Conclusion

Although there are many tragic incidents in front of you, it cannot stop you from your dream trek on the Himalayas. Just like every machine comes with its safety measures, every sport has its own safety rules. There are many tips and regulations before you start your journey, but here are the top 5 Tips for Trekkers Dreaming of the Himalayas which every trekker should know to make their trek more memorable.

I hope it was helpful!

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Best trekking in Nepal

1. Everest Base Camp Yoga Trek

Not only does this trek lets you test your physical health and achieve mental peace, but it also allows you to become more spiritually aware, hence the “yoga” in the name and this is the most popular popular trekking package in Nepal.
The trek includes versatile wildlife presence as well, so you can treat yourself with seeing a vast range of wildlife for 12 days in just $1499/person. You can also take your peers along to add to the fun. However, there is a limit placed by the company of a maximum of 20 group members.
The total trip duration will be 15 days with trekking time, breakfast, and a few other meals that are in the trip cost, as well as the residence. The starting and ending point of the trip will be Kathmandu.

Base camp trekking

2. Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking

Consisting of the combination of Nepal’s north Midwestern Himalayas region within Gorkha district, this is another quite popular trekking package to consider. Manaslu  also known as Kutang. It is the eighth highest mountain in the world.
This one is a relatively long trip lasting for a total duration of 26 days. However, the trekking duration will be 23 days, with average walking hours of almost 5 to 6 hours. The starting and the ending point is still Kathmandu with the trip costing a decent amount of $1599/person.
The stay will be at lodges and tea-houses, depending upon the place. The meals will include in the package, with the maximum group size of 8 people.

tsum valley trek

3. Gokyo Valley Trekking

If you’re somewhat into trekking and know a bit about the Everest region, you probably have heard about Gokyo valley and how it packs natural beauty. Experience of the exceptional turquoise lakes is one of the exclusive features it has.
The package includes breakfast and some other meals, stay in hotels/lodges with twin rooms and local transportation services. The starting and ending point is Kathmandu with a total trip covering 15 days and costing $1248/person.

Gokyo lake

4. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Situated at a level of 4320 meters above sea level, it is the most popular trekking package in the Annapurna region, offering exclusive exotic views to the trekkers. It’s packed with the world’s fourth-highest mountains and the world’s deepest valley within its boundaries, making it worth a visit.
The price is relatively reasonable, costing only about $915/person for the whole 14 days, with
starting and ending points are again Kathmandu. The package includes transportation services as well as accommodation in decent hotels (3 stars or above).

Annapurna base camp

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Photo by Gavin Yeates

1. Acquiring Certification

Certification is a highly crucial part of the journey of peak climbers. The government issues accreditation to those who are willing for peak climbing after conducting some interviews and test. Moreover, different mountains have different difficulty levels and vary in a large number of factors. Hence only those peaks should opt for climbing for which the government has officially declared them safe. Another yet essential point to keep in mind is to make sure that the company with which you are going with must also have proper license and certification for peak climbing.

Peak climbing in Nepal

2. Gearing Up with Essential Equipment

Before planning the journey, be concerned about the weather. Assume when you will go somewhere, what will be the condition of weather. Keeping that in mind, pack your stuff with the necessary trekking and climbing equipment to make sure you don’t face any problem once there. The weather conditions are quite cold and harsh due to the immense height and altitude of 6,000 m and above. Therefore everything essential useful tools, equipment, first aid medicines foods should be packed.

3. Proper Company and Guide

You need to plan for the journey very wisely. Select a location where you can move smoothly, and after that, the next step is to acquire a guide. The task of peak climbing is dangerous, especially for less experienced people, which is why the highly trained and experienced guide is necessary. The primary factor to keep in mind is that the company or guide with which you are going must be certified as mentioned in the above point. As it ensures precaution and safety of entrusting your life in the hands of another person.

Best guides in Nepal

4. Choosing the Right Time and Place

Even though the temperature on top of peaks is pretty much cold throughout the year, still one should make sure the time right for peak climbing. Generally, people in this area tend to climb from March-May. The danger of avalanches increases due to the heat of summer, and months of September to October. After that, the condition worsens, and it becomes too cold to do peak climbing. Moreover, choosing peaks which are easier to climb would be much wise for beginners. A tip in this aspect could be to avoid fast winds and snowstorms during peak climbing.

trekking in Nepal

5. Motivation and Determination

Last but not the least guide to mountain/peak climbing is proper motivation and determination. Peak climbing is a highly challenging task and is not for the weak of heart. Hence, only people that have active minds and can face harsh environments with patience and courage should opt for peak climbing. Since you wouldn’t keep complaining about every difficulty, you encounter on the journey where in most cases is no halfway back.

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Everest Base Camp

Weather At Everest Base Camp

First off, February to May is a reasonably clear season, and it is perfect for people who avoid chilly weather and freezing nights. The weather is the most stable during these months, which is the reason why a lot of beginner trekkers choose this time to trek. 

The second period ranges from September to October with relatively colder temperatures. however, it’s not freezing and is easily bearable, especially when it comes to trekkers having a bit of experience.  

The most unstable weather conditions approach in November through January. And even if the weather seems to be fair, it doesn’t take long for things to go downhill fast. Mostly, the nights are when it becomes the hardest as temperatures start to collapse under -20 degrees, and up to -30 degrees. Trails can be blocked due to the dumping of snow, causing reasonably long delays. 

Lastly, make sure you stay away from the trails throughout the monsoon season. Conditions are not as safe as the tracks are wet and un-enjoyable. Moreover, it may become impossible for you to take the breathtaking pictures of the mountain peaks, which makes up a large part of your trip. 

Mount Everest highest peak of the world

Trekkers On The Trails

Some people might want to watch hundreds of people descend the Everest Base Camps and like to have company around them, making them feel alive and somewhat secure. While, some would instead appreciate the beauties nature has to offer without any distractions, the peace-lovers. 

The peak trekking months are February through May and September to October. Due to the stable and bearable weather, the busyness of the trails increase, and you could expect a decent amount of people around. It could somewhat distract you from the views. So, if you can bear with the cold but want a peaceful trek, you could go for the winter season with best trekking guides in Nepal. However, be prepared for any weather delays or other inconveniences and make sure to have proper cold-weather gear. 

Breath Taking Trekking

Conclusion

So, we conclude that deciding the best time to Trek to Everest base camp is instead a question that you have to answer based upon your personal preferences. We have seen the time when the weather is favorable as well as the time when you can avoid all the distraction. These are the factors which help you to decide the best time for you to trek. 

Hence, if you are an experienced trekker and want a challenging trip, go for the winter season however if you’re somewhat inexperienced with trekking and don’t want to take any risks, go for Feb-May or September to October season!

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Home stays lets the visitors have a clear insight into the place. They offer you comfort no hotel can; it is said to be a true example of “home away from home.” Let’s look at some reasons why they’re always a good idea. 

Life in Nepal (Closer look) 

Living in the heart of Nepal, already sounds amazing, right? One of the main reasons to choose home stay is because of the close look you get at Nepal’s diverse culture and traditions. No doubt, home stays give you a real taste of Nepal and the life of the people of it and all the beauty behind the tall buildings and expensive hotels. 

Now you must be thinking why would you wanna leave your comfortable home and stay in a village while being a tourist, there is a famous saying that goes like “life begins at the end of your comfort zone”, not only this but also because you can spend your dollars on some deserving hands, without having to worry about your budget getting out of hands. 

Language and festivals  

August is known to be the best season for home stay trek at Nepal because of the main festivals of these Nepalese people; if you go for a home stay in this season, you can have one of the most memorable and amazing moments of your life in these festivals. While staying at the locals in Nepal, the tourists can immerse in the local traditions of Nepalese and maybe even learn one or maybe two lines of their language. 

Although Nepalese speak almost 123 languages, the main language is of course Nepali. Nepali people are very keen and will happily teach you their mother tongue, and maybe even ask you to teach them English!

Friendships 

Traveling alone can get lonely sometimes, you often don’t have anyone to tell how your day was. Well, no worries because home-staying provides you new friends to share your stories with as well as the warm feeling of a home. 

The Nepali’s are known for their friendliness, and having company is one thing hotels can’t compete with, by compromising on your luxuries and comforts you can get cozy, comfy, homely feeling with best trekking guides. Nepalis make sure you are feeling like a family member and an important part of the house on your stay which is 100/100 recommended and just so wonderful no?

The Cuisine

You have probably already heard of Dal (pulses) that as it is the favorite national food, but do you know that Dal that tastes different everywhere you go in Nepal. Usually, locals prepare traditional meals, so you don’t feel like you are missing out on something, but there are also different groups from local to ethnics, the food may also differ because of the different tribes. Fun-fact, the locals, even let you put your skills at work with their help. 

Conclusion

Simple to put, choosing home stay over hotels is once in a lifetime experience. As you trade the luxuries, you get an entirely different and fun-filled experience which lets you enjoy even off your trips there, not only this but it saves you a load of bucks as well!

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Sagarmatha National Park

This place is located in the northeast of Nepal; it is filled with snow-capped mountains, including Mount Everest, glaciers, valleys, and trails also surround it. Animals like snow leopard, Musk Deer, and Red panda are found here.

Photo by Gavin Yeates

Kathmandu Valley

This valley of Nepal is said to be the city of temples, each an every street site you will see different temples. It is the most crowded part of Nepal, with a population of a total of 2.5 million people. It has 7 UNESCO world heritage sites, All of them are worth visiting, Kathmandu Valley has said to at least 150 important monuments including several pilgrimage sites for Hindus, Buddhist, and Muslims.

temple

Chitwan National Park

It is a rich area in the Terai, subtropical southern part of Nepal, It’s known as the place of the last population of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros, The breathtaking Landscape full of lush vegetation makes this park an exceptional example of true natural beauty , Hills filled with trees and changing river landscapes also help in making this place attractive and stunning.

One Horn Rhino

Lumbini

Lumbini is a place of Buddhist temples located in Rupandehi district of Nepal. It’s famous because according to Buddhist tradition, Queen Mahamaya Devi gave birth to Siddharta Gautama in 563 BC in Lumbini. Lumbini has several older temples and various new temples funded by Buddha organizations from various countries.

lumbini

Swayambhunath Stupa

This place is considered one of the oldest monuments making its name in the world heritage sites because it’s believed to be around 2500 years old its structure represents four elements, earth, fire, wind, and water. 

The 13 rings of its spire represent the 13 steps of the ladder leading to Nirvana. Three hundred sixty-five steps are passing through which you will reach the holy site of Swayambhunath Stupa.

Swayambhu

Patan Durbar Square

This city is located only 8km southeast of Kathmandu city; this city is one of the oldest cities in Kathmandu valley. One of its prominent attractions is the ancient royal palace where the Malla Kings of Lalitpur resided. Hindu and Buddhist monuments are scattered around the ancient royal palace of durbar square. This city also has a museum, Patan museum. The Patan Museum exhibits the traditional sacred art of Nepali architect.

Changu Narayan Temple

This ancient Hindu temple of Changu Narayan is located on a hilltop that is also known as Dolagiri. This historic structure was built around 3rd century A.D. The area was surrounded by a forest of champak tree ( chaap) and a small Changu Village. It is located 12 km from Kathmandu.

Conclusion

Nepal is a place worth visiting. It is one of the safest countries, and it has a lot of sites worth seeing. We have listed out the top 7 world heritage sites which will help you out in your tour to Nepal. 

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