Why Annapurna Base camp Trek should be Your First Trek as a Novice Trekker?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a very popular trek in Nepal as it covers the royal peak Mt. Annapurna, the 10^th tallest mountain in the world. The locals of the country also refer the mountain as the goddess of harvest since the mineral=rich glacial water that comes out of the mountain helps them in harvesting which is their only source of survival.

Details of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Trek or the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is often regarded as an ideal trek for a novice trekker as it is easier and shorter than the other treks that are popular in Nepal. It is not a high altitude trek. The trekkers get a chance to get up, close and upfront with Machhapuchhre, the Annapurna Range, Hiunchuli and Dhaulagiri besides enjoying the diverse culture, wildlife, and terrain that comes as part and parcel of the trek. During spring, the valley is covered with beautiful Orchids and Rhododendron that also happens to be the national flower of Nepal.

From cascading waterfalls to natural springs, Machhapuchhre Massif to Kali Gandaki, there is a lot that is covered in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. While trekking the region, people get a chance to closely enjoy the warm local culture and learn about the different ethnicity, especially the Gurung people residing in the region around the Ghandruk museum.

Some facts you must know about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a Grade B trek, i.e. the trekking route is moderately difficult.
Any healthy and fit individual can do the trek, irrespective of their prior trekking experience.
The highest altitude that one reaches in the trek is the elevation of the Annapurna Base Camp at 4190m.
The average walking hours per day on this trek are about 4 to 6 hours. It can come down to 3 to 4 hours on difficult trails and can also go up to 6 to 7 hours when the trail is easy and pleasant.
The hot shower and battery charging facilities are available en route but you might have to shell out $1 to $2 for same. However, hot shower facilities are available for free at lower elevations.
Internet access is available in most of the places of the ABC trek but remember that the connection is not seamless and you might lose it often.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be visited any time of the year except the monsoons when the trail can become extremely slippery and risky. Also, the dark monsoon clouds can obstruct the beautiful views of the peaks around.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek – The smaller version

Do not get surprised! There is actually something easier than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek as well. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek 7 Days is a smaller version of the standard Annapurna Base Camp trek.

It is an ideal choice for individuals who do not have enough time to complete the regular trek yet it guarantees all the fun and pleasure that one deserves. It covers Annapurna I, Annapurna South, the Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, the unclimbed Fang, and the Machhapuchhare also popularly called the fishtail peak. Besides these popular peaks, one also gets a chance to closely explore the diverse culture, vegetation, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Himalayan region in Nepal.

Even though the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an easy trek, it is important not to ignore AMS or Altitude Sickness on the trek since it can affect anyone irrespective of the age or the level of fitness.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is not just a trek, it’s a challenge!

The only most popular trek in Nepal is the Everest Base Camp Trek, thanks to the splendor associated with the majestic Everest!

While it would not be wrong to count the trek among the most difficult ones, it is also important to break certain myths that are often associated with it, the most popular being that it is only for experts and not for the novice trekker.

Everest Trekking needs more planning than it requires athletic fitness. If a novice trekker undertakes a basic level of fitness training for around a month or two in advance and takes enough stops during the treks for acclimatization, the trek is a no brainer!

If you are planning to take up the popular trek but are too apprehensive about it, we have got you loads of information that will matter and can help you make a decision.

Some facts about the EBC Trek-the only most popular trek in Nepal

The EBC Trek usually takes about two weeks or 15 days except in the cases when a novice trekker is involved.
A major part of the trek is high altitude trek.
The only way to see the majestic Everest is by trekking the Khumbu valley from Lukla since there are no roads in the region. Using a helicopter, however, is the easiest way to get a glimpse of the mighty mountains.
Even though there are high altitudes involved in the trek, the Everest Trekking does not require any prior experience or any technical expertise.
A basic level of fitness combined with lots of determination is the only two things that you require to complete the trek successfully.
Whether you are young or old, underweight or overweight, you can do the trek unless you suffer from ailments such as breathing issues, blood pressure troubles or sprains or injuries in the leg.
Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS is a reality at this trek and it must not be ignored or taken lightly at all. It is due to the high altitudes that are being covered on the trek.
The highest altitude achieved on the EBC Trek is 5,554 meters at the Kala Patthar viewpoint. This is on the return journey of the trek.
The trek starts from Lukla. The distance from here to the Everest Base Camp trek is a formidable 65 km that makes it 130 km round trip.
The standard itinerary for the Everest Base Camp Trek is 14 days, out of which 12 days are spent walking. The average distance that is covered every day is about 15 km.

EBC Trek - Things to remember

While the common belief is that the trek requires a high level of fitness. In truth, a basic level of fitness with good determination can do the trick. It does not require one to be marathon fit.
A basic level of training about 6 to 8 weeks before starting the trek can go a long way in making the trek successful and enjoyable.
The trek will have easy days and tough days depending on the region you are covering and altitude you are climbing. It is advisable to train in advance for those difficult days.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a wilderness trek with no proper paved paths. There are enough ascends and descends that can tire you. Ensure that you take enough rest if you wish to go far.

Everest Trekking is more about grit and determination of a trekker than it is about his physical fitness or his trekking history!

Visiting Lake Tilicho is the reward you get in the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

One of the most challenging treks in the Annapurna Region is the Annapurna Circuit Trek to Lake Tilicho but it is also worth all the complexities it presents to the trekkers. It is the most diversified and adventurous trekking trail that exposes the trekkers to lush paddy fields, oak trees and rough mountain terrains on one side and the beautiful sparkling Tilicho lake, the high Thorong La Mountain pass and the Kaligandaki Gorge on the other!

The alternate route to the Annapurna Circuit Trek that covers the Tilicho Lake from the north has gained tremendous popularity in the last few years. This hike takes an additional 3 to 4 days and a minimum of one-night camping. The Annapurna Circuit Trek has an extraordinary panorama to offer to its trekkers. There are a number of orchid forests, valleys covered in beautiful rhododendrons, rough terrains together with amazing flora and fauna.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake (15 days)

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trek that is also the most popular in Nepal.
Visit Lake Tilicho, the highest lake in the world.
Cross Thorong La Mountain pass, world’s biggest mountain pass.
Trek the deepest gorge in the world, the Kaligandaki gorge.
Explore and learn more about Buddhist and Hindu culture and the lifestyle of the local people.
Enjoy diverse ecosystems, diverse cultures, and different landscapes.
You can relax your aching muscles at the natural hot springs in Tatopani.
Together with the Tilicho Lake Trek, you will also join the route that goes to the famous Muktinath Temple. The Muktinath Temple is a religious place of importance for both Buddhists and Hindus alike.
On the way, you can closely explore the lifestyle of Thakali and Gurung people who have their settlements scattered around the region.
All along the trek, you will be lucky to have beautiful views of Himalayan ranges such as Nilgiri, Tilicho Himal and Annapurna ranges.

More about Tilicho Lake

The glacial lake is located at an altitude of 4919m near the Annapurna Circuit. It is formed by the water that melts from the glaciers of the northern slopes of Annapurna. The lake is located in the Manang district of Nepal which is about 55 kilometers from the Pokhara city.

Even though there are other lakes at higher altitudes in Nepal itself, Lake Tilicho is called the highest lake in the world, often for its size. As per the Nepali Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, there are no signs of any aquatic organisms in the lake. The lake has become a popular destination for most of the trekkers that take up the alternate route of Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. A team of Russian divers undertook scuba diving in the Tilicho Lake in the year 2000.

Apart from the historical significance, the Tilicho Lake also has a religious significance since as per the Hindu mythology the lake has been mentioned in their respected book Ramayana. Since there are several Buddhist villages on the way to the lake, the religious and cultural stories from Tibet are also associated with it.

The trek has the best of the Annapurna circuit whether it is in terms of landscape, culture, mythology or mountains.

There are several trekking companies that provide customized packages of the trek to their clients. They are highly professional and can be trusted for all the arrangements and safety during the trek. So, get ready for one of the most beautiful treks in the Manang region of Nepal.

The famous Muktinath Yatra is a step into the Heaven?

The famous Muktinath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Nepal. It is held in high esteem by both the Hindus as well as the Buddhists. People who travel from across the globe to the trekker’s paradise—Nepal also make it a point to visit the legendary temple once. The temple is not just celebrated for its religious significance but also for its stunning location.

The pagoda style temple is located at an altitude of 3710 meters in a picturesque and serene valley, the Muktinath valley. It is at the foot of the Thorong La Mountain Pass which is a part of the Himalayas and a major attraction for the trekkers, tourists and pilgrims alike. The temple is in the Mustang district of Nepal which is close to a village called Ranipauwa. Such is the fame of the temple that the village is often mistakenly called the Muktinath village.

We answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the Muktinath Temple or the Muktinath Tour here.

What is the best time to visit the temple?

One of the best times for the Muktinath Tour is the months from September to November when it is autumn in Nepal and the finest weather to visit the place. The second best weather for Muktinath Yatra is spring season that lasts for months of March, April and May. June, July and August are summer months with rains. Taking Muktinath Yatra at this time can become really difficult for the fear of slippery roads and landslides. The winter season in Nepal is from December till February. Since most of the region around the temple is covered in snow, it is not a preferred time to visit the temple.

The Muktinath Temple is dedicated to which god?

The famous Muktinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. As per the popular Hindu belief, it is here that lord Vishnu got salvation from the curse of Brinda. For the same reason, Lord Vishnu is also worshipped as Lord of salvation or Muktinath and hence, the name Muktinath Temple. The Tibetan Buddhists consider Lord Vishnu as Avalokiteshvara or Buddha and visit the temple with equal reverence.

What is the best way to reach the Muktinath Temple?

There are several ways of taking up the famous Muktinath Tour. You can choose to go to the temple by the road that takes about 4 to 8 days; by flight which will take about 3 to 6 days; the Muktinath Tour by flight and road that takes anywhere between 3 to 7 days. However, one of the easiest and the quickest ways to reach the famous Muktinath Temple is by the helicopter that takes merely 1 hour 30 minutes each way. The journey starts either from Kathmandu or Pokhara, depending on the choice of medium one makes.

Was the temple affected in the last earthquake to strike Nepal in the year 2015?

The aggressive earthquake that hit the country of Nepal in April 2015 has not affected the famous temple in any manner. The site of the temple is absolutely safe and secure to travel. The places that were affected in that earthquake are Kathmandu, Langtang, Gorkha, and the Everest region. However, after all these years, all the places in Nepal are now safe to visit.

So if you have the Muktinath Tour on your mind, you can visit the temple and enjoy not just the peace and serenity of the temple but the beautiful locations around. It would not be wrong to say that Muktinath Yatra is a step into heaven.

Eighteen Places around Bangalore which can be endup with wonderful Weekend road trips?

Bangalore is known as Garden city and one of the best part of the Garden City is the opportunity to get away from it during the weekends. There are several exciting road trips that make your trip a memorable one, and I am covering 14 weekend drips from Bangalore to wonderful destinations?

1) Skandagiri

For the historical and adventurous, Skandagiri is a perfect outing which can be done within a day and half. Located 60km outside of Bangalore, on the Chikkaballapur stretch is this quaint hilly village. Along the drive to the base of the hill, catch a glimpse of rural lifestyle and savour scenic views.

2) Nandi Hills

A must-to-do Bangalore road trip, Nandi Hills or Nandi Betta is best known for rolling green slopes surrounding the Amrit Sarovar Lake and a pleasant weather all year through. Either mountain biking or motor biking, this trail is great for those newly initiated into the adventure sport.

3) Sangam
Sangam
Drive on the Kanakpura to reach this natural footprint where the River Arkavathy merges with River Cauvery. A piece of wonderment awaits at Mekedatu, the end of a probable destination for a bike trip from Bangalore.

4) Avalabetta

A hilly retreat, a paradise for nature lovers, Avalabetta is a lovely spot with beauty and serenity crowning its presence. At about 90kms from Bangalore off the Bellary road, it is an enjoyable destination.

5) Ranganathittu

A flourishing breeding and nesting ground for several migratory birds, Ranganathittu is Asia’s most preferred stop over. An accidentally created set of six islets, the bird sanctuary is a haven for nature and bird lovers alike. A deviation from Srirangapatna along the Coorg state way, this is an ideal getaway and among the enjoyable road trip from Bangalore.

6) Mysore
Mysore
Words fall short to describe the historically rich neighbouring city of Bangalore. A bike trip from Bangalore to Mysore unravels many appeals. Irrespective of the time one heads out, here’s one state highway which is energetic and crowded from the word go.

7) Lepakshi

A historic and archaeological destination, Lepakshi fulfils a desire to go back in time. Best known for its hanging pillar, this village in Andhra Pradesh is quite similar to styling of Vijayanagar architecture at Hampi.

8) Hogenakkal

Hogenakkal Falls, 40km from Dharmapuri is popular for its glittered as a great backdrop for several regional and Bollywood films. A brilliant option for a Bangalore road trip, because it cannot be reached via direct access of public transport.

9) BR Hills

BR Hills, the popular name for Biligirirangana Hills is an ideal road trip from Bangalore for a short vacation if wilderness and adventure is what is on the radar. Situated between the Eastern and Western Ghats, most of the hills are protected areas of the Biligiri Rangaswamy Sanctuary – a major tiger reserve.

10) Kabini
Kabini
Escape from the city’s crowd and deadline chaos into the wilderness to Kabini – no destination at a journey’s end comes close to this. Straight off a prescription for rejuvenation, travel to Kabini is one of the finest road trips from Bangalore.

11) Horsley Hills

Located at an altitude of 4,000feet above sea level, the road leading to Horsley Hills bestows a panoramic vision of the surrounding hills. The path is extremely scenic with Mahogany, Gulmohar, Sandalwood, and Eucalyptus trees lining the road and culminating into dense verdant forests.

12) Sakleshpur

Find paradise at Sakleshpur, a beautiful hill town in Hassan district located on the Bangalore-Mangalore Highway. Nestled in the beautiful Western Ghats, much of its lush greenery is attributed to the coffee plantations enveloping the region.

13) Wayanad
Wayanad
Get to drive on some stretches passing through finest of nature’s creations – forests, occasional wildlife spotting, waterfalls, and more. The road to Wayanad from Bangalore takes twists and turns going through the outskirts of heritage city Mysore, with the tall Chamundi Hills guiding you through some miles.

14) Ooty
Ooty
Getting to Ooty is as exciting as the bustling hill town itself. Drive along the Mysore state highway from Bangalore. You’ll pass through the thickets of Bandipur and Masinagudi where you can catch wildlife. The famed stretch has 32 hairpin bends that truly is the glamour quotient of this Bangalore road trip.

15) Coorg

Coorg
Going to Coorg can only be a road trip. This divine drive is blessed with great roads which are driver’s delight. Pit stops all along the way ensure that the journey is sans hunger pangs.

16) Agumbe
Agumbe
Agumbe is widely known for its rain forests and perpetual wet weather. Nestled in the most beautiful part of Karnataka, Malnad the region lies in Shimoga district. This road trip from Bangalore is for the true lover of nature.

17) Pondicherry

The ECR (East Coast Road) was designed to deliver driving pleasure. A massive stretch of well laid concrete, neatly marked and well maintained ensures travellers do only what is required – enjoy the drive!

Checkout the things to do in Pondicherry.

18) Kudremukh

A pristine, grassy hill station in the lovely region of Chikmagalur, Kudremukh is calm, secluded and rich in flora and fauna. Take the NICE road from Bangalore towards Tumkur.

Why Annapurna Base camp Trek should be Your First Trek as a Novice Trekker?

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