Nepal is a wonderland for adventure seekers as the country possesses several stunning and spectacular remote places. Riveting and enchanting, adventures could spend years exploring the remote outdoors of Nepal and never get bored. Henceforth, if you find yourself in the category of adventurer, there is no doubt you will love walking the rugged trails of Nepal. However, the question comes when travelers have to choose from a sea of superb Trekking in Nepal. Therefore, to make things easier for thrill-seekers, we have compiled a list of the five best adventure treks in Nepal. Go through the list and make plans to tick off the best destinations from the list:
8 Best Treks In Nepal & Some Remote Treks You Can Do In Nepal
If you're bored of trekking in the aforementioned popular routes or you're looking for remote treks to do in Nepal our article might be quite helpful for you. As we have listed out a few of the remote trekking areas of Nepal. Trekking in the remote areas of Nepal is quite an adventure itself. The routes are thrilling and challenging making it perfect for adventure-seekers.
Before beginning your trekking journey, you will be staying in Kathmandu for a day or two, spending some time sightseeing and prepping for the trek. During your stay, you will be visiting the UNESCO Heritage sites and some popular streets. If you need any trekking gears or accessories then you can buy or rent them from Thamel. Thamel is the most happening place in Kathmandu. This is a great place to buy souvenirs as well. Such as a hemp backpack, handmade statues, hand painting, religious sculptures, etc.
#1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an excellent combination of alluring mountain scenes and outdoor splendour. Most consider the Annapurna region a trekker’s paradise as it is suitable for every type of traveler and has unmatched natural beauty. The journey begins from the wonderful Pokhara, where one could admire the sky dominating the Machhapuchhre range.#2. Manaslu Circuit Trek
The routes are suitable for any level trekkers. It is challenging and harsh for beginners, while considered moderate for experienced trekkers. You will be trekking along the gorge of Budhi Gandaki River, checking out some marvelous peaks and landscapes. Some of the peaks are Mt. Manalsu, Lamjung Himal, Mt. Annapurna, etc.
A pure adventure in the pristine northern corners of Nepal, Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a great chance to taste Nepal’s unique Tibetan cultures. This glorious journey goes past authentic Nepali villages to authentic Tibetan parishes letting adventures taste a cultural transition. Similarly, ancient monasteries and gumbas that decorates the trekking trail offers a sense of tranquility to visitors. The walking course is free of traffic; thus, anyone looking for a quaint wilderness experience will appreciate the ambiance of Manaslu Circuit Trek.
#3. World-famous Everest Base Camp Trek
#4. Langtang Valley Trek
#5. Annapurna Circuit Trek
#6. Makalu Base Camp Trek
#7. Tsum Valley Trek
This place was restricted to outsiders until 2008. The routes for Tsum valley have been recently opened thus it is not much crowded giving you privacy. Tsum Valley lies on the north side of Manaslu and is one of the best remote treks of Nepal. Known as a hidden valley, the people living here have their own delicacies and traditions.
You will be surrounded by many majestic mountains on this trek. Such as Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Boudha range, and many more. This region is secluded from other regions of Nepal. Tsum Valley was once a part of Tibet so it gives out a completely different look from elsewhere. The people of the Tsum are known as Tsumbas who have their own dialect, culture, arts, and religion.
#8. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
This conservation area is home to many endangered animals and foundations of flora. Such as black bear, red panda, pheasant, snow leopard, and many more. The routes were opened for trekking only in 1988. Before that, the routes were forbidden for trekkers. This trekking route lies in the restricted area of Nepal. There is a compulsory requirement of one local guide and two trekkers. Also, you will be needing permits to complete your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
During your journey, you get to experience the wonderful culture, lifestyle, and food of the locals living here. You will be staying in Tea-houses for this trek. These are small lodges with minimal facilities. You don’t get a variety of dishes but the ones you find have a unique and delightful taste. Also, the view of some of the marvelous peaks along the way looks stunning. Such as Mount Kanchenjunga, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and many many more. And the slow change in landscapes is not to be missed.
Island Peak Climbing In Nepal
Island Peak (6,189 m) is a majestic mountain peak in the Himalayas of the Everest region. Also known as “Imja Tse”, this peak appears as an island in an ocean of ice when viewed from Dingboche. Hence, it is commonly known as “Island Peak.” Although it is a trekking peak, the Island Peak Climbing is quite challenging. The difficulty level also offers avid mountaineers with added adventure in their journey. You will need to complete a taxing trek journey along the rugged trails of above 5000m before the climb.
After arriving at the Island Peak Base Camp (5,100m), climbers need to rope-up and use crampons. The foot of the headwall is the most difficult part of the journey. You will need to ascend steep incline in thin air. However, you don't need to worry as there are lines fixed that will assist you and keep you safe at all times. The short ascent is accessible from the summit ridge to the top.
Moreover, acclimatization is essential as the longer you spend on the high altitude region, the easier the climb gets. You can adapt to the weather and climatic conditions with ease. Hence, acclimatization will help you get accustomed to the place to ensure a successful ascent. You must consider all the risk factors involved with the climb and prepare and train accordingly. Read further to know more about how difficult is Island Peak climbing Nepal in detail.
How Difficult is Island Peak Climbing Nepal?
Island Peak (6,189 m) is a trekking peak with an elevation just above 6000m. However, the peak has various technical sections which makes the climb challenging at times. The Island peak climbing requires some knowledge of the gears and equipment like carabiner, figure 8 devices, ascenders, and others. Hence, beginners with some advanced knowledge about these devices can summit this beautiful peak. Some of the major factors that contribute to the Island Peak Climbing difficulties are as follows:
Technical Climb
Island Peak is not your regular hill climbing and requires basic rock and ice climbing training. Having the right gear and equipment is essential for the trek. Walking on the ladders with your mountaineering gear and boots is not an easy task. You will need to cross the crevasses at high altitude, face harsh winds, and freezing temperatures.
The headwall and the summit
The final steep section between the headwall and the summit ridge is the most challenging part of the Island peak climb. The headwall is a steep 300m climb with slopes of 40 and 50 degrees. You will need the help of crampons before arriving at the glacier. Moreover, the sherpas will help you get roped up for the ascent and ensure your utmost safety. You need to cross a few crevasses through ladders that get placed across the challenging sections. The abseiling down the headwall is equally challenging. You should train well for the wall using an abseiling figure of 8 devices, and ropes. The technical portions can be quite difficult for beginners.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is one of the most challenging aspects of the climb. Towering at the height of 6189 meters, the summit of Island Peak has minimal oxygen levels and air pressure. You should adjust your body to the changing by acclimatization and regular hydration. Moreover, Island Peak Climbing itinerary includes a two-week trekking which helps the climbers to get accustomed to the conditions. You can also carry Diamox tablets to tackle altitude sickness along the trail. Hence, altitude sickness is of the major difficulty of Island Peak Climbing.
Trekking Routes
We follow the same route as that of the Everest Base Camp Trek which requires a trek of 7-8 hours a day. The trekking routes get off the beaten path once we divert from the main route. You will need to walk through the rugged terrains with taxing high uphill climbs. Hence, the trekking routes are also the challenging factors in the Island Peak climb.
Weather conditions
The weather at higher altitudes conditions is unpredictable and uncertain. Climbing the peak early in the morning will save you from the harsh afternoon winds. Besides that, the Everest region remains cold throughout the year and especially in the nighttime. Furthermore, this climb requires climbers to remain prepared to face the extreme weather during their climb. Hence, these factors also affect the Island Peak Climbing expedition and make it quite difficult.
Location
Island Peak lies in the beautiful Everest region of Nepal. The peak is an extension of Mt. Everest and Lhotse. You will need to trek after arriving at the Lukla airport from Kathmandu, TIA. The Island Peak Base Camp trek passes through the Everest Base Camp. You can also trek directly to the Island Peak Base Camp but it is generally not recommended for beginners.
Furthermore, trekkers can observe the peak from Dingboche after 6 or 7 days of the trek. The Island Peak is close to Mera Peak which is less technically challenging. Trekkers and climbers find the remote locations a difficulty. Hence, the location of the Island peak makes the expedition quite challenging as well.
Basic Climbing Gear and Equipment
The climbing gear and equipment are an essential part of the Island Peak climbing. You need to carry basic climbing gears like a carabiner, figure 8 devices, ascenders, and others. Having the right gear is crucial as the Island Peak Climbing has technical sections. Some of the essentials Island Peak climbing equipments are as follows:
- Mountaineering Boots: High-insulated stiff boots with hard soles are ideal for mountain climbing. They help you cross the snowy and rugged terrains of the Himalayas.
- Fixed-line: You should get a proper fixed line for steep hills and rocks. The length, diameter, and the fabric of the rope are important aspects you should consider before getting the fixed-line.
- Carabiners: You should get 2 lock gates and 2 straight gate carabiners to fix the rope.
- Crampons: You should get crampons that are compatible with climbing boots. Ensure that they are stainless and cover the soles completely.
- Climbing Harness: Adjustable climbing harness fits over any clothing and is thus ideal for the climb.
- Mountaineering Helmets: A quality climbing helmet reduces the risk of head injuries even if you hit your head with a steep rock surface. You should ensure that the outer shell of the helmet is hard and the inner shell is soft, and wrapped with foam.
- Ascenders (Jumar): A strong hand ascender is essential for your safety. You should choose a lightweight ascender with an aluminum frame and rubber handle that provides a good grip.
- Ice Axe: You should get the ax that fits from the bottom of your thumb to the ankle. Make sure that the picks and adze are strong with a steelhead.
- Tape sling: Make sure to get a UIAA tested 2 x 120 cm closed tape sling or 220cm open tape sling.
- Figure 8 Belay Device: A Figure 8 Belay Device provides smooth abseiling. You can loop the rope inside the hole of the belay device.
- Backpacking Tent: A backpacking tent is your safe space as there are no teahouses available after a certain point along the trail.
- Prusika loop: Prusik loops are essential to tie ropes during the mountain peak climb.
Six Other Great Adventurous Things to Do in Nepal
For adventure enthusiasts like you, there are only so many things for you to do in Nepal. Being a landlocked country with diverse topography and gorgeous natural beauty, we can assure you one thing. You will find the time to appreciate the beauty of Nepal in whatever you do. So without beating around the bush, let us take a small peak at the 5 great adventurous things to do in Nepal for you. We promise you that your stay in Nepal will be much more memorable with these activities.
#1. Remote area trekking
There are many treks in Nepal that take you through the off-beaten trails to the raw beauty of the remote areas of Nepal. Some treks like Upper Mustang Trek, Manaslu Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek really lets you experience the culture and lifestyle of the people in the rural areas. Remote area trekking can be pretty adventurous as you are exploring the deep remote areas that are mostly unaffected by modernization. Also, you can also try some mountainside trekkings like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek for some hardcore adventure trekking experience.
#2. Paragliding
Imagine being able to see what the birds see from the sky looking down at the world you usually walk on. Paragliding has become one of the popular adventure sports in Nepal as the views to enjoy in Nepal during paragliding are sumptuous and extremely pretty at that. One of the famous destinations for paragliding in Nepal is in Pokhara. As you get off the hill, the views are outstanding. Looking down on the vast lakes from above just seems magical to the eye. Make sure you don’t miss out on this adventure the next time you are in Nepal.
#3. Bungee jumping
In Nepal, the most popular destination for bungee jumping is the Bhote Koshi River bridge. At a height of 160 meters, the lines are always packed with enthusiastic thrill lovers waiting to jump off the bridge. You will be properly harnessed and the safety procedures will be just as great. However, get ready to fall at a speed of 150 km per hour free fall. Let the adrenaline rush make the memories for you.
#4. Everest skydive
What’s even better than just skydiving is Everest Skydiving. Everest is the highest mountain in the world. So what's better than jumping off an airplane from that height and feeling the air from near Everest enjoying the majestic views of the mountain. You will be free falling from 11000 feet from the plane and you will be in full control of yourself as to when you will open your parachute and enjoy the landing. The views from the dive will be just as extraordinary. You can also try other mountains but Everest skydiving is the most popular one as this is the highest mountain in the world.
#5. Rafting
The most popular destination for rafting in Nepal is the major rivers with strong rapids like the Trishuli river, Seti river, Sunkoshi river, and many more. If you have the time, you should try some rafting tours which will let you cover a large area of the river camping in great destinations. Also, your rafting tour will include fishing in the river and enjoying new and deep regions that cannot be just traveled to by other means of transportation. So if you have some time try this adventurous sport in Nepal and make some great memories.
#6. Helicopter tour
With the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour, you can go and check out what the peaks look like up close within a day. The most popular helicopter tours are the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour and the Annapurna Helicopter tour. They are the most popular trekking and mountain climbing destinations among travelers. So take a day off your busy schedule and live to witness the extraordinary view of the mountains up close with the helicopter tour.
You can enjoy the view like no other. The glaciers, small valleys, lakes, and the big tall mountains will all be very close to you for you to witness. You cannot top this panoramic view with anything else. So be sure to check out the helicopter tour in Nepal if you are searching for adventurous things to do in Nepal.
Wrap Up: The Best Treks in Nepal & Other Great Adventurous Things
ABOUTME
Travelling through the kyriarchy and weaselling our way out of the rat race - a female travel blogger writing about socially and politically conscious travelling.
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