Mountains in Nepal
Let Us Touch the Sky...
Nepal is the home of mountains. The awe-inspiring, majestic mountains of Nepal attract the tourists from far and wide. Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, juts out in north eastern region of the country, on the Sino-Nepalese border. It seems competing with other mighty mountains. Adventure activities like mountaineering, trekking and hiking can be enjoyed in this mountain range. Journey on these mountains transends one to an entirely different world. Mountain biking is also a popular game in this region. | ||||||
Kanchenjunga Mountain:
Towering High
Mount Kanchenjunga, one of the world's most spectacular mountains, is renowned as the queen of mountains. Kangchenjunga, the third highest peak on the planet, can boast of varied ecological zones, from the subtropical land to glacial wilderness. Mighty Kangchenjunga glacier is the most famous attraction of Kanchenjunga. Great valleys, encircled by high peaks, are another feature of Kanchenjunga. Mt. Kanchenjunga is a massif with its highest peak reaching 8,586metres. It is encircled with dozens of peaks, each of them competing with their queen. Fast Facts
| Location | Far-east Nepal |
| Altitude | 8,586 metres (28,169 feet) |
| Significance | 3rd Highest Peak in the World |
| Season | September to December, early February to late June |
| Peaks |
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Trekking Route to Kanchenjunga
The long trekking trail to Kangchenjunga takes one through some of the country's most pristine forests. The region is an ideal place for the tourists who desire for some time in seclusion. The following is a possible day-to-day trek to Kanchenjunga.
Day 01: Fly from Kaathmandu to Birathagar/ drive to Basantpur (2200m)
Day 02: Trek to Chauki (2700m)
Day 03: Chauki / Gupha Pokhari (2930m)
Day 04: Gupha Pokhari/ Nisum (2000m)
Day 05: Nisum / Dovan (921m)
Day 06: Dovan / Chirwa (1270m)
Day 07: Chirwa / Sekhathum (1660m)
Day 08: Sekhathum / Amjilassa (2510m)
Day 09: Amjilassa / Kyapra (2730m)
Day 10: Kyapra / Ghunsa (3595m)
Day 11: Ghunsa rest
Day 12: Ghunsa / Khambachen (4040m)
Day 13: Khambachen / Lhonak (4785m)
Day 14: Day trip / Pangpema
Day 15: Pangpema / Khambachen
Day 16: Khambachen / Ghunsa
Day 17: Trek around Glacier (up to 5540m, if you want) / high camp
Day 18: High camp / Ramche
Day 19: Ramche / Tseram (3870m) back to Ramche
Day 20: Ramche / Amchekhola
Day 21: Amchekhola / Ponphe
Day 22: Ponphe / Kande Bhanjyang
Day 23: Kande Bhanjyang / Lal Kharka
Day 24: Lal Kharka / Taplejung
Day 25: Taplejung / fly Kathmandu /transfer hotel
Highlights
Although the whole trekking trail to Kanchenjanga is adventurous and brimming with thrill, there are certain spots which are unmissable. Few of them are cited below:
- Wonderful glaciers to trek like Yalung Glacier
- High challenging mountain passes
- Rhododendron forests
- Opportunity to meet native Nepali communities such as Sherpa, Limbu, Rai and Gurung
Tit Bits
- Kanchenjunga is less explored by foreign visitors and lies shrouded in mystery.
- Some features of the walk are pleasant villages in the high regions, glorious mountains and abundant wild life.
- The wildlife at Kanchenjunga includes musk deer, blue sheep and for the believer, the Yeti!
- Magnificent views of Mt. Everest, Makalu and Kanchanjunga massif make the trip memorable.
- Soaring peaks, the Yalung Glacier and a wide variety of natural vegetation and agriculture areas can be seen in this region.
- Kanchenjunga is located in the extreme northeast corner of Nepal bordering Sikkim (an Indian state) to the east and China to the North.
Snow line generally occurs between 5,000 and 5,500 meters. The region is characterised by cold climatic and rugged topographic conditions. Human habitation and economic activities are extremely limited.
Population
The region is sparsely populated, and whatever farming activity does exist is also confined to the low-lying valleys and the river basins. Upper Kali Gandaki Valley is an example of such valleys.
Mountaineering Regulations
According to the Nepal Mountaineering Association:-
- Any person or mountaineering team wanting to climb Nepal Mountains and Peaks must receive permission from Nepal Mountaineering Association.
- The team shall not indulge in activities that may be contrary to the customs and religious, political, social or cultural traditions of the locals.
- The team shall set up camps in its route to the base camp in such a way that they are acceptable to the local people or as prescribed by Government.
- The team shall not have any arms, ammunition and explosives etc. They are required to take government permission for the same.
- The team shall not get involved in any activity, which is or may be likely to affect negatively to the security and reputation of Nepal.
Lhotse Mountain:
Towering High
Mount Lhotse, with the altitude of 8,516m, lies south of Mount Everest. Lhotse which holds the tag of the fourth highest mountain in the world is linked to the highest peak by a vertical ridge called South Col, which always maintains itself on the upper side of 8000 meters. Mt. Lhotse was first ascended in 1956. Nepal is also known for its tremendous south face by Ernst Reiss and Fritz Luchsinger who were both part of a Swiss expedition.Overview
| Location | South to Everest |
| Altitude | 8,516m |
| Importance | Fourth highest peak of the World |
| Best Trek Season | April To May & Late September To October |
| Region | Khumbu Himal |
| Mountain Range | Himalayas |
The Trek
Lhoste is a frequently trekked mountain. Being far more easier to trek than Mount Everest, mountaineers climb Lhoste to get a close view of Everest. The following is a possible day-to-day trekking route to Lhotse:
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport
Day 02: Full day Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 03: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 05: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
Day 06: Trek to Tengboche
Day 07: Trek to Pheriche
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche
Day 09: Lobuche to Lhotse Base Camp
Day10: Base Camp Preparation
Day11-35: Climbing Period
Day 36: Cleaning up Base Camp
Day 37: Lhotse BC to Dingbuche
Day 38: Dingbuche to Namche Bazaar
Day 39: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Day 40: Fly back to Kathmandu
History of Climbing
First serious attempt to reach Mount Lhotse summit was made in 1955 by a group led by Norman Dyhrenfurth. Some local sherpas and porters had accompanied the group. This expedition is also attributed with making the first map of the region. The mountain was finally climbed in 1956 by a Swiss group. As of date, more than 200 mountaineers have reached Lhotse summit. Many mountaineers have even died while trying to reach the summit of Lhotse.
Lhotse Tit-bits
- Lhotse means 'South Peak'. The name has been given by the Sherpas considering that the mountain lies south to the Everest.
- Lhotse is sometimes mistakenly identified as the south peak of the Everest massif.
- Lhotse was first climbed in 1956 by two Swiss, Fritz Luchsinger and Ernest Reiss.
- In addition to the main summit, there are two subsidiary peaks, Lhotse Shar, which is immediately east of the main summit, and Nuptse, a high peak on the mountain's west ridge.
Makalu Mountain:
The Perfect Pyramid
Mount Makalu, holding its place among mountains in world at fifth place, is located nearly 14 miles away from Mount Everest. Structure quite similar to a pyramid makes the mountain look unique. Nature has blessed the region with unbelievable diversity of beauty. Attractions like Great Himalayan peaks carpeted by snow, quaint villages, exotric villages and impressive riversided never cease to impress tourists who have come for trek. Overview
| Location | China-Nepal Border |
| Altitude | 8,463 m (27,765 feet) |
| Importance | 5th Highest Peak in the World |
| Best Trek Season | April to May & Late September to October |
| Region | Khumbu Himal |
| Mountain Range | Himalaya |
Trekking Route
The Makalu Base camp trek is a true adventure with scenery so beautiful that it never tires you. This trek trail expedition takes you to Makalu Base Camp (5250 m), now designated as Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area.
Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu
Day 02: Sightseeing at the Kathmandu valley
Day 03: Flight: Kathmandu - Tumlingtar (860 m), Trek to Khadbari (1,040m) (4 hrs). Camp
Day 04: Trek Khadbari to Chichila (1,830 m) (5/6 hrs). Camp
Day 05: Trek Chichila to Num (1,490 m) (5 hrs). Camp
Day 06: Trek Num to Sedua (1,460 m) (5/6 hrs). Camp
Day 07: Trek Sedua to Tashi Gaon (2,070 m) (5 hrs). Camp
Day 08: Trek Tashi Gaon to Kauma (3,470 m) (6 hrs). Camp
Day 09: Rest / Exploration day at Kauma. Camp
Day 10: Trek Kauma to Mumbuk (3,570 m) (5 hrs). Camp
Day 11: Trek Mumbuk to Nhe Kharka (3,000 m) (6 hrs). Camp
Day 12: Trek Nhe Kharka to Sherson (4,615 m) (7 hrs). Camp
Day 13: Trek Sherson to Makalu Base Camp (5,000 m) (4/5 hrs). Camp
Day 14: Explore Makalu Base Camp
Day 15: Trek Makalu Base Camp to Nhe Kharka (3,000 m) (7 hrs). Camp
Day 16: Trek Nhe kharka to Mumbuk (3,570 m) (6 hrs). Camp
Day 17: Trek Mumbuk to Kauma (3,470m) (5 hrs). Camp
Day 18: Trek Kauma to Tashi Gaon (2,070 m) (5 hrs). Camp
Day 19: Trek Tashi Gaun to Pukuwa (1,520 m) (6 hrs). Camp
Day 20: Trek Pukuwa to Bumling (1,160 m) (5 hrs). Camp
Day 21: Trek Bumling to Tumlingtar (860 m) (4 hrs). Camp
Day 22: Flight: Tumlingtar - Kathmandu
Day 23: Explore and enjoy Kathmandu
Highlights
- Mt. Makalu trek visits one of the most remote and unfrequented areas of Nepal i.e. the Barun valley.
- The Makalu-Barun area contains some of the richest and most diverse pockets of plants and animals in Nepal.
- Chomo Lonzo (25,650 ft.) is a subsidiary peak of Makalu, rising just north of the higher summit, separated by a narrow saddle.
- Covering 2330 sq km, Makalu-Barun is a vital component of the greater Mount Everest ecosystem.
- More than 3000 species of flowering plants constitute the fauna of Makalu trek.
- The Makalu forests shelter abundant wildlife, including the endangered red panda and musk deer, Himalayan thar and leopard. Ornithologists have identified 400 bird species, at least 16 of which are extremely rare.
Cho Oyu Mountain:
he Turquoise Goddess
Cho Oyu is the sixth highest mountain in the world, located a short distance to the west from Everest (the highest) and Lhotse (the fourth highest) in the Khumbu region of Eastern Nepal along the Tibetan border. Its towering peak stands with Everest well above the surrounding mountains. It became a familiar landmark to climbers ascending Everest's north face. Just west of Cho Oyu is the Nangpa La, a 19,000-foot glacier pass, the main trade route between the Khumbu Sherpas and Tibet. Overview
| Location | Eastern Nepal, Nepal - Tibet Border |
| Elevation | 26,906 feet (8201 m) |
| Region | Khumbu Himal |
| Range | Himalayas |
| Nearest Access | Namache Bazar |
| Nearest Airport | Kathmandu |
| Significance | Sixth highest mountain in the world |
| Best Season to Visit | April To May & Late September To October |
Striking Features
- The view from the summit plateau is breathtaking. One can witness the entire panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Chamlang, Ama Dablam and other peaks of the Khumbu.
- This Cho Oyu massif is arguably the most technically straightforward, accessible and safe to climb.
- It is a natural and adventurous exploration zone.
Mountaineering Attemps & Expeditions
» First climbing expedition of Cho Oyu's Northwest face by Edmund Hillary and party.
» A small Austrian expedition, under the leadership of Herbert Tichy, make a spectacular first ascent without oxygen on the Northwest face. This new style of climbing big mountains with alpine techniques rewrote mountaineering history.
» Second ascent by an Indian expedition. Sherpa Pasang Dawa Lama, who was part of the first ascent, reached the peak for the second time. First death on Cho Oyu.
» Four members of an expedition are killed in an avalanche during a failed international women's expedition.
» Controversial third ascent by a German expedition. No proof of reaching the summit. Two mountaineers die in Camp 4 of exhaustion at 7600 m (25,000 foot) height.
» The Austrian alpinists, Koblmuller and Furtner, succeeds in a spectacular ascent of the extremely difficult and dangerous southeast face.
» Reinhold Messner succeeds on his fourth attempt.
» First winter ascent of the South buttress by a Polish expedition. The South Buttress is the most difficult route on Cho Oyu to be completed successfully.
Dhaulagiri Mountain:
The White Mountain
Dhaulagiri, which can be literally tranlated as White Mountain, holds the status of the seventh highest mountain in the world. A giant Himalayan massif, Dhaulagiri lies in north central Nepal and is the highest mountain located entirely within Nepal. Dhaulagiri region has four pyramid-like peaks, in addition to the main summit, and all of them rise more than 25,000 feet altitude. High passes and sweeping snow-clad vistas seem to challenge the trekkers who would love to go on a off-beat trek. Trek in Dhaulapur region is replete with peace, and on the other hand, excitement and adventure.Overview
| Location | North Central Nepal |
| Altitude | 8,167 m |
| Importance | 7th Highest Mountain In The World. |
| Other name | Dhawalgiri |
| Mountain Range | Himalayas |
| Region | Dhaulagiri Himal |
| Best Trek Season | April To May & Late September To October |
Striking Features
- Refreshing walks through terraced fields of millet and rhododendron forests, past Buddhist chortens and colorful villages
- The exotic Mayangdhi river gorge which leads into the legendary Hidden Valley, one of Nepal's wildest and most remote regions
- Several awe-inspiring glaciers like the Chhonbarden Glacier
- Adventurous passes like the French Pass and Dampus Pass
- An unforgettable climb to the Thapa Peak (19, 720 ft.) leading to the deepest gorge in the world - the Kali Gandaki.
- An opportunity to see small villages, visit ancient temples, learn about the mountain Sherpa culture, and enjoy the support of a wonderful group of warm and friendly local porters and fine mountain cooks
The Dhaulagiri Trek
The trek trail is an extreme trip that rings the awesome Dhaulagiri, an imposing peak west of the Annapurna massif. This trek familiarises the trekkers to astounding varieties of Nepal's natural beauty and cultural diversity. This is an ideal trip for those with mountaineering aspirations.
Day 01: Trek departure to Beni-900m (approx. 9 hr drive from Kathmandu) and overnight camp
Day 02: Trek to Babiyochaur-1000m (5-6 hr)
Day 03: Trek to Dharapani-1500m (6-7 hr)
Day 04: Trek to Muri-1800m (5-6 hr)
Day 05: Bagar-1900m (6-7 hr)
Day 06: Trek to Dovan-2550m (7-8 hr)
Day 07: Trek to Italy Base Camp-3500m (7-8 hr)
Day 08: Rest at Italy Base Camp for acclimatization
Day 09: Trek to Dhaulagiri base camp-4650m (6-7 hr)
Day 10: Rest at Dhaulagiri base camp for acclimatization
Day 11: Trek to Dhampus Pass-5250m crossing over French Pass-5360 (7-8 hr) via hidden valley
Day 12: Trek to Yak Kharka-2591m (6-7 hr)
Day 13: Trek to Marpha-2665m (3 hr)
Day 14: Trek to Jomsom
Day 15: Fly from Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu, trip ends...
Outlook
Mount Dhaulagiri (8167m) was first climbed by the Swiss in 1960. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Dhavala' which means 'White' and 'Giri' i.e. 'Mountain'. The mountain was discovered by British surveyors in India in the early 1800s and was mapped by one of the secret Indian surveyors in 1873. The region remained largely unknown until a Swiss aerial survey in 1949. After its discovery in 1808 by the western world, Dhaulagiri was thought to be the highest mountain in the world. This lasted for 30 years before Dhaulagiri's place was taken by Kanchenjunga, and then Mountain Everest.
Tit-Bits
- In 1960, the Swiss/Austrian expedition who first reached the Dhaulagiri summit did so despite their airplane having crashed during the approach.
- Dhaulagiri rises 7000m over the Kali Gandaki gorge to the southeast in about 30km of horizontal distance.
- The South and West faces of Dhaulagiri both feature massive drops; each rises over 4000 meters from its base, and each has been the site of epic climbs
- Across the deep gorge of the Kali Gandaki to the east lies the Annapurna Himal, home to Annapurna I, one of the other Eight-thousanders.
Manaslu Mountain:
Mountain of the Spirit
Manaslu, the eighth tallest mountain on the planet, presents one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. Manaslu mountain stands in the vicinity of Annapurna. Thanks to its peculiar appearance, Manaslu mountain peak can be noticed from afar for it juts out steeply above its neighboring landscape. Elongated ridges and valley glaciers provide comparatively easy approach to the mountaineers.Overview
| Location | West Central Nepal |
| Altitude | 8,156m (26758 ft) |
| Importance | 8th Highest Mountain in the World |
| Mountain Range | Himalaya |
| Region | Manaslu Himal |
| Convenient Center | Pokhara |
| Nearest major Airport | Kathmandu |
| Best Trek Season | April To May & Late September To October |
Route Map
Manslu treks offer a chance to experience the untouched region of Nepal. Number of tourists coming in area have been restricted to preserve the freshness of the area. The government wants to save the region from undue commercialisation. Thanks to this approach, the travellers get the opportunity to enjoy refreshing atmosphere of the trekking circuit. Here is possible itinerary of Manaslu trek.
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 3: Drive to Arughat
Day 4: Trek to Soti Khola (730m)
Day 5: Trek to Labishe (880m)
Day 6: Trek to Dobhan (1,070m)
Day 7: Trek to Jagat (1,370m)
Day 8: Trek to Serson (1,750m)
Day 9: Trek to Deng (1,860m)
Day 10: Trek to Ghap (2,380m)
Day 11: Trek to Namrung (2,540m)
Day 12: Trek to Shyala (3,330m)
Day 13: Trek to Samagaon (3,3,90m)
Day 14: Rest and acclimatisation day
Day 15: Trek to Manaslu base camp (4,300m)
Day 16: Trek to Samdo (3,690m)
Day 17: Rest and acclimatisation day
Day 18: Trek to Larkya la Rest House (4,460m)
Day 19: Trek over Larkya la pass (5,213m) to Bimtang (3,590m)
Day 20: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m)
Day 21: Trek to Syange
Day 22: Finish trekking at Besi Sahar, drive to Pokhara
Day 23: Drive to Kathmandu
Day 24: At lesiure in Kathmandu
Day 25: Fly back home
Major Attractions of the Trek
The trek is approximate 200km long circular pathway surrounding several mountain ranges connecting number of hamlets. The trek follows a clear glacial stream known as Buri Gandaki. The trek trail appeals to the tourists' primitive, persona. Striking features of the trek are the following:
- The beautiful backdrop of Ganesh Himal mountain range
- Exciting bamboo bridge to cross
- The trek familirizes to the multi-ethnic villagers of the region including Nalma, Sho and others
- Adorned stupas and "mani" stone walls of Nupri region
- An exciting climb to Shyala for a panaromic view of Himalchuli
- Trekking in ankle-deep snow
- Wonderful passes lkie the Larkhya Pass
Trek Highlights
» Scenic views of Tibet and an insight into Tibetan way of living through various monasteries and Tibetan settlements.
» Uninterrupted mountain views, lakes and waterfalls encircled by alpine and tropical forests.
» Comparatively easy trekking
Permits
The Mansalu mountain is a controlled trekking route which demands special permits to organise trekking groups to venture round its spectacular circuit.
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