Month: June 2019

Wondering the reasons why Annapurna Base camp trek is extremely popular? Influx of trekker in Annapurna Base camp trek is the solid proof how much popular this trekking is. So what makes this trekking so busy? We provide reasons why Annapurna Base camp trek is extremely popular among the trekkers.

Above all, it is the Base camp trek. Moreover, of Mount Annapurna (8091m) the tenth highest peak of world. Since beginning, Annapurna Base Camp trek is acting as substitute of Everest Base camp trek. Especially, to those trekkers who are restricted by trekking days, budget, physical fitness and so on.

Flexible trekking itinerary in between 10 to 15 days is another reasons why Annapurna Base camp trek is extremely popular. We name here Classic Annapurna Base camp trek a traditional and longer version. The other shorter Annapurna Base camp trek is gaining popularity in recent years. Saving the money for expensive flight of Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu, plus shorter number of trekking days make this trek cheap compare to Everest. As well the trekking is comparatively easy than Everest. Even amateur (beginner) trekker can trek to Annapurna Base camp with few guidelines set by trekking agencies and trekking guides.

Beside comparing with Everest Base camp trek, Annapurna Base camp trek itself has some outstanding characteristics that are not comparable. Trekking in different climatic regions without gaining sharp altitude is another reasons why Annapurna Base camp trek is extremely popular. Trekking starts at tropical region of Nayapul (Birethanti) that gradually ends at the snowline of Annapurna Base camp following lower temperate, upper temperate, sub-alpine and alpine climatic zone.

Cultural diversity is another reasons why annapurna base camp trek is extremely popular. Though dominated by Gurung culture, the trekking also displays great harmony of different Nepalese community. Summarizing, Base camp of mountain above 8000m, short, cheap, beautiful diversified landscape, cultural harmony among different communities are some reasons why Annapurna Base camp trek is extremely popular in Nepal.

Base Camp of 8091m

The recent scenario of trekking in Nepal shows that trekker is much more interested in trekking to Base camps of mountain above 8000m. And it is a proof Base camp treks of Nepal remain highly busy, crowded and occupied during peak season. More importantly, if trekker is not restricted by time, budget, fitness and so on.

Without doubt, Annapurna Base camp trek is the only Base camp trek of Nepal that addresses all the above-mentioned concerns of the trekker. In Addition to that the mesmerizing sunrise along with numerous peaks is something hard to explain with words. Without a doubt, one of many reasons why Annapurna base camp trek is extremely popular among the trekkers.

Shortest trekking itinerary to Base camp of 8091m

7 days of trekking (excluding nights at Kathmandu and Pokhara), and the trekker is at one of the most beautiful and amazing places of earth. However, this is extremely shortest version of Annapurna Base camp trek which we generally do not recommend for amateur and beginner trekker. Plus, a very tight schedule to base camp is not a great idea. Instead, we recommend Classic Annapurna Base camp trek that combines with Ghorepani and Ghandruk circuit trekking.

Bad weather, altitude sickness are some other risks that might collapse whole idea and beauty of trekking to Base camp. Even adding extra 2-3 days in this itinerary, it is still the shortest trekking itinerary to Base camp of Mountain above 8000m. One of the biggest reasons why Annapurna Base camp trek is extremely popular.

Cheapest trekking to Base camp

Shorter the number of trekking days, cheaper the trekking price. More importantly, comparing to Everest, trekker needs to pay USD 5.00- USD 10.00 less per day to Annapurna trekking region. This has become unspoken tradition among the trekking agencies of Nepal.

The numerous options of transportation mode from Kathmandu (tourist bus/ private car/ flight) to and from Pokhara also cuts down price massively. Booking tourist bus to Pokhara is the cheapest way. If a trekker wants luxury there is always possibility to book a flight or a private car. For example, trekker can use tourist bus to go to Pokhara from Kathmandu and use flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Or vice-versa.

Beautiful Landscape during trekking

The trekking itinerary is short, yet the trekker can experience all the landscape and climatic zone of Nepal in same trekking itinerary. The trekking starts from most beautiful and happening city of Nepal, Pokhara. Dense forest, terraced crop fields, beautiful villages around tropical and temperate climatic zone of trekking are some wonderful highlights. Once a trekker is in sub-alpine and alpine region, they can explore and enjoy unrestricted views of mountains and peaks. Interestingly, with gaining steady altitude in this trekking itinerary. One of the most important reasons why Annapurna Base camp trek is extremely popular.

Cultural diversity with great harmony

Annapurna Base camp trek is generally dominated by the culture and tradition of Gurung people. However, a trekker can see other distinguishable community of people like Brahmin, Chhetri, Newar specially in lower trekking region. The most important part is, there is great harmony among the people. Some villages like Ghorepani, Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Tadapani has high density of people that makes these places lively and beautiful. Great places to understand day to day life of native Gurung people.

Finally, Annapurna Base camp trek is complete package for trekking. Cultural and natural aspects come together to entertain trekker. Beautiful countryside villages in lower trekking region is something trekker cannot miss. Reasonable budget, short trekking days, moderately easy (depending upon itinerary trekker choose) are some other reasons why Annapurna base camp trek is extremely popular.

Comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek will definitely provide actual insight to trekker in circuit (round) trekking of Nepal. Needless to say, Annapurna circuit trekking paves the trekking path around Annapurna mountain(8091m) ranges in Annapurna trekking region. Obviously with many other peaks and mountains. While Manaslu circuit trek circles the Mount Manaslu(8163m) along with other peaks in Manaslu trekking region. Two different circuits (round) trekking with different tastes and flavors for trekkers in terms of landscape, eco-system, cultural and natural heritage.

Annapurna circuit trek holds back long and traditional legacy in trekking of Nepal. A well-known trekking path. While Manaslu circuit trek came in light few decades back, but with a bang. The trekking is gaining exceptional popularity. Comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek is easy due to some distinguishable characters. However, suggesting trekker as a trek organizer is not an easy thing to do. We believe a comparison between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek might help trekker to choose the circuit (round) trekking of Nepal by themselves.

Here we provide the similarities and dissimilarities of both the trekking.

1. Popularity

While comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek in terms of popularity, the Classic Annapurna circuit of 21 days is one of the oldest trekking routes in Nepal. Pioneer for starting a tourism business in Nepal. So, it is extremely popular among the trekker. As an organizer, we certainly believe most of the trekker has extensive information on Annapurna circuit trek.

Manaslu Circuit trek came in the radar among the trekker only decade back. However, the pace of popularity is increasing day by day among the trekkers. As an organizer, it is nice to address the curiosity of Manaslu circuit trek for new as well experienced trekkers.

2. Itinerary

Annapurna circuit trek has highly flexible trekking itinerary due to the construction of road. Currently, it is really confusing matter to suggest a trekker, from where to start a trek. Generally, there is classic trekking route from Besisahar with 21 days itinerary. But now, trekker can start anywhere they desire keeping Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) in mind. We suggest minimum 13 days trekking itinerary for Annapurna Circuit trek.

Manaslu circuit trek generally starts at Arughat or Sotikhola that Joins at Dharapani, a junction of Annapurna Circuit trek and Manaslu Circuit trek. From Dharapani a trekker has road option to drive. Either can ride a jeep or continue trek to Syange. Without riding jeep from Dharapani trekker can complete Manaslu circuit trek in 18 days.

Note: We will provide standard itinerary once you let us how many days you are planning to trek in either trekking region.

3. Trekking Permits

For Annapurna circuit trek, trekker needs to purchase Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card.

For Manaslu circuit trek, trekker needs to purchase Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Plus, Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card. Most importantly, restricted area permit (special permit) issued by the Department of Immigration of Nepal.

Note: Trekker alone cannot issue the restricted area permit. Hiring a trekking agency in Nepal is compulsory. As well, hiring trekking guide is also mandatory. Minimum two trekkers are necessary to issue the restricted area permit.

4. Transportation

During Annapurna circuit trek, trekker drives to Besisahar from Kathmandu in asphalt road. From Besisahar, trekker can either drive in off-road or start trek. Trekker can choose any point to start trek in between Besisahar and Chame. Starting beyond Chame, ultimately increases the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Upon crossing Thorong-La and reaching Muktinath the trek re-join off-road drive on other side of Kaligandaki valley particularly at Muktinath. Those with limited time are recommended to fly out from Jomsom to Pokhara. From Pokhara trekker can choose numerous modes of transportation depending upon budget.

In similar fashion for Manaslu circuit trek, trekker drives to either Arughat or Sotikhola from Kathmandu. After reaching Dharapani crossing Larkey- La pass, trekker can ride a jeep or continue to trek to Syange/ Besisahar. From Besisahar can either ride a local bus or private car to Kathmandu. Comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek, Annapurna trekking is highly feasible and rich in terms of transportation after construction of road in both Marshyangdi and Kaligandaki valley.

           
5. Difficulty Level

Since, Manaslu circuit trek was relatively new in trekking market, it used to be considered difficult than Annapurna Circuit trek. Moreover, in past trekker had to do camping trekking due to lack of tea houses in Manaslu region. But the scenario has changed after new and comfortable tea houses are introduced in Manaslu trekking region. Both trekking has high altitude pass. Thorong-La pass (5416m) is the highest altitude trekker gains during Annapurna circuit trek. Larkey-La pass (5106m) is the highest altitude in Manaslu circuit trek. However, Annapurna circuit trek is luxurious comparing Manaslu circuit trek in terms of facilities. Comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek in terms of difficulty, Manaslu is slightly difficult.

6. Major trekking Highlights

In Annapurna circuit trek, Mount Annapurna (8091m) is the main theme of trekking. In Manaslu circuit trek Mount Manaslu (8163m) is the main highlight of trekking. Gurung, Thakali, Manangi are the main inhabitant of Annapurna circuit trek following Buddhism. Nubri and Tsum people confined only in Manaslu trekking region, following typical Buddhism is the cultural highlight of trekking. One can see the raw culture and tradition of people in Manaslu circuit trek because of rear contact with the outside world. Plus, trekker has the option to explore Manaslu Base Camp in same trekking itinerary. In contrast, a trekker cannot trek to Annapurna Base Camp during Annapurna Circuit. Possible but, requires a huge number of extra days to complete Annapurna circuit trek and Annapurna Base Camp trek in same trekking itinerary.

Both trekking being, the round trekking has similar kind of landscapes. Both trekking has tropical, sub-tropical, lower-temperate, upper-temperate, sub-alpine, alpine and snowline climatic zone. However, during Annapurna circuit trek, trekker can enjoy the section of Trans-Himalaya climatic zone as well, from Muktinath to Marpha.

7. Optional possibility of adding other trekking itineraries.

During Annapurna Circuit trek, trekker can trek around Nar Phu valley with Kang-La pass that branches off from Koto and joins back to Manang. But again, Nar Phu valley is remote trekking and Kang-La pass is difficult pass for general trekker. Trekking to Tilicho lake from Manang that joins at Yak Kharka is another possibility.

Trekking to Tsum valley is another option for trekkers in Manaslu circuit trek. Once, properly acclimatized, trekker, can continue to any section of Annapurna Circuit trek driving in jeep from Dharapani instead of descending down to Besisahar. Again, comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek in terms of a side trip, Annapurna circuit trek is more flexible with lots of options to trek around the region.

8. Price and cost

Comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek in terms of price and cost, being remote, it is not unusual that Manaslu Circuit trek is slightly expensive. Plus, extra trekking permit fees in Manaslu circuit trek is something trekker needs to consider.

Again, comparing between Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek is not difficult itself, due to the specific character of each trekking. However, giving a suggestion is difficult. If a trekker has completed Annapurna Circuit trek, it is highly recommended to make Manaslu circuit trek next target in Nepal. Trekker definitely won’t regret choosing Manaslu circuit trek over Annapurna circuit trek.

Choosing between Gokyo valley trek and Everest Base camp trek in Everest trekking region is not easy and can be a confusing for most of the trekker. Usually, for those trekkers who have partial or little knowledge and information on Everest trekking region. It is sad, Gokyo valley being one of the most beautiful trekking valleys, is overshadowed by the base camp trek. Considering the landscape and beauty of the Everest trekking region, Gokyo valley trek is far beautiful comparing to Everest base camp. Not to mention, Everest base camp is a brand which everybody knows about and doesn’t need marketing. Easy sale.

In the first place, it is the desire of individual trekker to step base camp, that makes all the difference. Equally important, being an entrepreneur, it is hard to lose business suggesting Gokyo valley trek over Everest base camp trek to any trekker. Things become more complicated to convince trekker, when he/she is trekking in Nepal for the first time and make inquiries on Everest Base Camp trek in first instance. Trekkers (not everybody) who have completed both the trekking most of the time (not every time) would admire Gokyo valley trek over Everest base camp trek. We believe this article can be useful for trekker in choosing between Gokyo valley trek and Everest base camp trek in Everest trekking region. In brief, let’s figure out the differences and similarities.

Trekking Itinerary

The trekking itinerary up to Namche Bazaar is same for both the Gokyo valley trek or Everest Base camp trek . After acclimatizing in Namche, for Everest base camp, trekker heads east-north while for Gokyo trek, trekker heads further north from Namche Bazaar. Trek through Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep to reach Everest base camp. Pass by the settlement of Dole and Machhermo to reach Gokyo valley. 15 days to Everest Base Camp and 14 days to Gokyo valley are our standard itinerary for general trekker. However, trekking days can be different depending upon different agency and organizer. As well, trekker can trek to Gokyo valley crossing Renjo-La pass within 15 days via Thame and Lungden. Trekker heads west-north from Namche Bazaar for Gokyo valley trekking through Renjo- La .

Note; A trekker can trek to Everest base camp through Cho-La pass after completing Gokyo valley trek. Again, trekker needs strong desire and mentality to attempt this itinerary.

Landscape After Namche Bazaar

We hope, providing the general info of landscape after Namche Bazar can make easier in choosing between Gokyo valley trek and Everest base camp trek in Everest trekking region. For Everest Base camp trek, trek through sub-alpine forest enjoying the Himalayan birds and animals especially around Tengboche. Landscape changes after Pangboche, and trekker mostly see small bushes and open meadows. After numerous gentle climbs and crossing open large flat plateau of Pheriche, trekker reaches Thugla. Climbing steep up-hill to the ridge of Thugla, the landscape becomes rocky and barren to reach Lobuche. After Lobuche, trekker mostly trek on rocky path eaten up by glacier to reach Gorakshep, in the foothill of Kalapathhar. Continuing from Gorakshep, trekker can see old alpine landscape eaten by the Khumbu glacier and Pumori glacier. Most of the trekking path is rocky, icy with big boulders along with small water ponds. Most imporatntly, Kalapatthar is windy, rocky black hill at the top of Gorakshep to enjoy the sunrise and close-up view of Mount Everest.

For Gokyo trek as well, there is great chance to spot wild birds and animals around sub-alpine forest of Phortse-thanga. The landscape gradually changes upon crossing Mongla to reach Dole. From Dole landscape changes sharply, specially can see small juniper bushes and open meadows to reach Machhermo in sub-alpine climatic zone. In addition, the landscape becomes more interesting with short climbs and downs with many small gullies. From Pangka, the landscape becomes rocky and barren to reach the Gokyo eaten up by glacier. Passing by two lakes the trekking continues to a settlement of Gokyo by the bank of Dudhpokhari; the third lake. There are six small and big lakes in total. Gokyo ri is a hill top view-point from where trekker can enjoy whole Everest trekking region landscape from single spot.

Scenery/Mountain view

Generally speaking, this is where, choosing between Gokyo valley trek and Everest base camp trek becomes more confusing. A trekker can spot beautiful near and close up view of Ama Dablam from Tengboche with Mount Everest and Lhotse far at horizon. Small hills around the valley keeps cheating the view of Everest and Lhotse again and again. Trekker can enjoy the actual alpine climatic zone especially after climbing the Thugla ridge. Pumori looks near and beautiful all the way to Gorakshep and futher to base camp. A trekker can see top of Mount Everest occasionally. However, the most irritating part of trekking to Everest Base camp is, most of the view is blocked by massive Nuptse. After all, climbing Kalapatthar, a trekker can see the actual top of Everest very close and beautiful alongside Pumori, Lhotse, Nuptse and many more.

In contrast, for Gokyo valley trek, instead of trekking through deep valley, a trekker mostly climbs through small numerous ridges. This gives an excellent opportunity to enjoy the landscape of Everest trekking region in aggregate. For example, trekker can enjoy the view of Ama Dablam from bottom (along with glacier) to top. The exceptional view of Mount Cho-Oyu directly upfront during the trekking is thing a trekker cannot ignore. Like in Everest base camp trek, small hills keep cheating the beautiful mountain landscape but not for too long. The trekking becomes more fascinating after reaching Gokyo lake. Climbing Gokyo ri, one can see Mount Everest far, but can sum-up Everest trekking region from a single spot.Equally important, hiking around the fifth lake is great way to explore deep Gokyo valley trek.

Difficulty/ Altitude

Uniquely, there is not much difference in choosing between Gokyo valley trek and Everest base camp trek in terms of difficulty level. Kalapathhar (5600m) is the maximum altitude a trekker gain beside Base Camp (5364m) during the Everest Base Camp trek. Climbing Kalapathhar, a windy hill in early morning is the most difficult part of trekking.

Similarly, climbing Gokyo ri (5375m) is the maximum altitude a trekker gain during the Gokyo valley trek. Exploration around fifth lake in deep snowline of Everest trekking region can be difficult. Not considering altitude, but due to the remoteness and isolation around the deep valley of Gokyo.

Achievement for trekker

Choosing between Gokyo valley trek and Everest base camp trek highly depends upon what trekker wants to achieve? During Everest base camp trek, achievement of stepping Everest base camp plus enjoying the close-up view of Mount Everest is something trekker can be proud of. In Gokyo valley trek, a trekker can embrace the beautiful mountain landscape of Everest trekking region in total. Exploration of five Gokyo lakes in such a high altitude is nothing less thrilling than conquering Everest base camp.

Final Note: To enjoy the close-up view of Mount Everest, select Everest base camp trek. To enjoy the actual Everest trekking region in total, select Gokyo valley trek. Independently, an author feels Gokyo valley trek is more beautiful in terms of enjoying landscape of Everest trekking region in totality. Write us back if you still are confused on choosing between Gokyo valley trek and Everest Base camp trek. We help you further. As well suggestions from experts are welcome.