If you search on the internet for the meaning of the trek, it gives simply a one-line definition. Trekking is a long, arduous journey, mainly made on foot. But when you venture out for your first trek, you will soon realize there is more to trekking than this simple line. For some, it would be the sheer adrenaline of adventure; getting away from the busy city life could be the reason for others. For others, it could be the beauty that nature has to offer.
Saying that, let's discuss what exactly trekking is. The word Trekking is derived from the word "trek" and "migration." Trek means an ancient Afrikaans word that means "migration." Overall, you must leave your home for several days with your trekking basics and gear on your back and sleep in a tent for accommodation. Thus, it is a form of walking undertaken with the specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. For many people, trekking could also be a motive, and they take a pledge, a mission, a party, an aim, an objective, and a social gathering.
Whatever it may be, there will always be a purpose behind why a person would like to trek. Thus, if you have even the slightest attraction towards trekking, go for it now, and if you find your purpose, you will surely enjoy it and make it a part of your life.
Many people around the world are just googling, which county is best for a trek? Which county is the cheapest country in the world for trekking? Which is the best country to visit? If you are one of them, you are in the right place. The article below will take you to the depth of the world's most beautiful country, Nepal, and the possibilities of trekking.
Types of Trekking
In today's context of Nepal, the craze of trekking is becoming popular. The beauty of the streets of Kathmandu, the lakes of Pokhara, mountains of Khumbu attract thousands of tourists to Nepal. Alongside the organized guides and organized tours, anyone can enjoy the beauty of Nepal by trekking. Nepal is a country where a massive variety of options allows people of many ages can attempt a trek in the country.
Before diving into the trekking area of Nepal, let's learn the types of trekking. Basically, for many years we have learned that trekking is walking through the manufactured and natural tails through wilderness/hills to explore nature and the life in the area. So what's new about this article is whether it will be the same fashioned things may not? Here we will let you know the country is not only about artificial and artificial trails; it is more than that; many call the country their second home.
On the basis of accommodation and food, trekking is divided into three types, which are briefly explained below.
Tea house trek
Tea house trek, also renowned as lodge trekking, is one of the most common and famous trekking. They are slightly different from one region to another, but most are simple stone, wooden buildings, and huts. Where small kitchens, a communal eating hall, a bathroom, and several basic bedrooms are available. Many of them are built for trekkers, while some also reside there as that is their home.
By now, you all might know that these types of trekking are used for eating and resting during treks. While traveling to the Langtang region, ABC and EBC travelers claim that there are good facilities for lodging and fooding. In this way, people can also connect with local culture and traditions while staying in a lodge. Many of the tea houses in the trekking routes are well managed and clean, but some can be found dirty.
Nevertheless, the beauty of teahouse trekking is that it minimizes the requirement to carry camping and culinary gear or plan extensive logistics like campsites. On most treks in these parks, you scarcely have to walk for an hour or two earlier to come across another teahouse usually, at the popular overnight stops, you’ll find a whole cluster of them offering relatively similar menus and rooms. Some famous tea house trekkings are the Gosaikunda Helambu trek, Mardi Himal trek, Khopra Ridge/Khayer Lake trek, and many more.
Camping Trekking
Unlike tea houses, camping trekking is less common among travelers. However, it is a classic trek style mainly conducted in remote areas supplying several camping equipment. The types of trekking functioned with a porter, cook, guide, assistant guide, kitchen helper, camp helper a crew member. Thus, essential things are also needed, including sleeping bags, tables, permits, food, fuel, transportation, camping equipment, dining, and entrance fees. So, we can easily assume that this type of trekking is more challenging to organize.
Basically, this type of trek is organized far from the frequented trails that provide a wilderness experience in both cultural and natural aspects. While traveling to Nepal, there are so many empty areas, and more interesting is that the Nepalese people also live in the remote trekking areas. That will not only help you to get more self-sufficient things like a stove, food, water, tent but also helps to find porters who will carry goods.
Some of the best camping trek sites in Nepal are Tilman Pass, Ganesh Himal Singla Pass, Sherpani Col passes, Dhaulagiri Circuit, Upper Dolpo, Panch Pokhari, and Ganjala Pass. One main advantage of a camping trek in Nepal is that you can hike on more remote trails.
Nevertheless, we can also categorize other types based on related aspects. In Nepal, you will find many travel agencies that offer a tour and trekking organizers.
Trekking places in Nepal
Nepal is home to some of the most spectacular treks in the world. It boasts unsurpassed sheer diversification, from the steamy jungle and Terai to the icy peaks of the world's highest mountains. Ranging from classics like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang to up-and-coming treks such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Nar Phu Valley Trek, Nepal's best treks the country has so many magnificent treks. To see and trek through the lush jungle, every year it attracts +200,000 trekkers. In other words, we can also say that every year more than 200,000 people get into a dilemma to select which trekking destination to explore in Nepal.
Below we are listing some of the most fantastic and most crowded treks.
Everest Base Camp Trek
Among all the lists mentioned above, the Everest Base camp is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. Reaching the top of the world many people dream of. However, the trek is more like a lifetime journey. The trek offers you the land of the World's Highest, Mount Everest. Similarly, the trek is for those who cannot get to the Mt. Everest expedition.
While trekking to this area, you will witness the Sherpa people, who are famous for climbing Everest. Apart from mountains and Sherpa, the trek offers a magnificent view of jungles, landscapes, and many more.
Major Attraction
- Stand face-to-face with Mt. Everest and witness Everest Base Camp itself.
- Kala Patthar, at 5,600 meters, is a vantage point providing fantastic views of majestic peaks such as Nuptse, Lhotse, and Mount Everest.
- Great trekking trail and incredible mountain landscapes.
Quick Facts
- Max elevation: 5,600 meters
- Remoteness: Not Remote (due to the crowd of trekkers)
- Trekking type: Teahouse
- Best Season: March-May and October-November
- Permits: Yes
- Accessible during winter: Yes (Dec-Jan)
- Pricing: Medium (#USD spent/day)
Annapurna Circuit Trek
After Everest, the Annapurna circuit trek is a legendary trekking route in the world and one of the most popular destinations that mingle the varied landscape underneath the mighty snowy peaks of the Annapurna chain. During the trip, one can witness the endless beauty of the Annapurna region. Along with the exhilarating journey by the narrow lanes & wild woods, trekkers can explore the wildest part of nature and Annapurna's iconic beauty.
Major Attraction
- Mount Annapurna
- Natural Hot Springs
- Cultural Villages
- Sunrise and Sunset
- Rhododendron and Orchid
- Rare Animals
Quick Facts
- Max elevation: 5,416 m, Thorong La Pass
- Remoteness: Not Remote (due to the crowd of trekkers)
- Trekking type: Teahouse
- Best Season: March to May and October to November
- Permits: Yes, needed
- Accessible during winter: Yes (Dec-Jan)
- Pricing: Cheap (USD spent/day)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu circuit trek loops around the Manaslu conservation area and gives a taste of the trails under the shadow of the beautiful Manaslu range. The trek takes you around the base of the 8th highest mountains in the world and is in the west-central part of Nepal in a neighborhood, the Mansiri Himal. While trekking at Manaslu Circuit, you can forget about the traditional Annapurna Routes and escape the masses. You will see the clear and fantastic views of the Annapurna area. The view of the snow-capped mountains and high glacier lakes and spot the most stunning flora and fauna. The circuit passes many Nepalese cultural heritage sites, including traditional Tamang and Sherpa settlements.
Major Attractions
- Mountain drive from Kathmandu to Arughat and Beshisahar to Kathmandu
- Plenty of insights of Tibetan and Nepalese people
- Larkya La pass (5153m/16901ft) crossing, one of the highest passes in the world
- Tibetan culture of the Nuri people bordering Tibet and Nepal
- Unspoiled nature and culture
Quick Facts
- Max elevation: 5115m at Larkya Pass
- Remoteness: Remote
- Trekking type: Teahouse
- Best Season: March to May and October to November
- Permits: Yes, needed
- Pricing: Medium (USD spent/day)
- Difficulty: Hard
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Another thrilling and beautiful trek in Nepal is the Kanchenjunga base camp trek. The trek will take you on the journey of the world's second-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga. During the trek, you will explore eastern Nepal's culture and natural beauty. Trekking through the wild high-mountain terrain, deep into the secluded mountain ranges on Nepal's border with Sikkim and Tibet, you will see some of Asia's most exotic wildlife. Similarly, the trek allows exposure to the unspoiled local culture and wonderful nature, making it a rewarding adventure.
Major Attraction
- North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga and view of the imposing North Face of Jannu (Kumbhakarna).
- Discovery of villages and culture of the Limbu ethnic group.
- Discovery of a little-known, wild region.
Quick Facts
- Max elevation: 5,160 m, Lapsang Pass
- Remoteness: Remote
- Trekking type: Teahouse
- Best Season: March to May and October to November
- Permits: Yes, needed
- Pricing: High (USD spent/day)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Gokyo Ri Trek
The Gokyo RI trek is an adventure trek destination in the Everest region. Along with alluring side glens, turquoise lakes, and the biggest glacier is the most attractive region in Khumbu. There are 19 lakes in their surroundings, all formed by a freshwater system collectively known as Gokyo Lakes. You can also view Mount Everest from the lake. Besides that, you can see other mountains, including Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and many more.
Major attractions
- Tranquil Gokyo Lakes And Ngozumpa Glacier
- Uncongested Trail
- Warm, Hospitable Sherpa People
- Gokyo RI, For The Grand View Of The Everest Massif
Quick Facts
- Max elevation: 5,357m, Gokyo Ri
- Remoteness: Remote
- Trekking type: Teahouse
- Best Season: March to May and October to November
- Permits: Yes, needed
- Pricing: High (USD spent/day)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking vs. Trekking
We have often heard the terms hiking and trekking used interchangeably. Of course, we all know they're both outdoor recreational activities. But are they really the same? Is there even a difference between trekking and hiking? Is hiking vs. trekking an age-old rivalry, like England vs. Scotland and maps vs. GPS tracking systems?
Many of us might have a rough idea of what hiking and trekking are. But, if you thought hiking and trekking were similar activities and recently realized that that isn't the case, don't worry; you aren't the only one. So, let's dive deep into what makes them different and how you can better equip yourself to go on your adventure when you pick these adventures with this article.
As we already mentioned, trekking is a long journey undertaken on foot in areas where there are usually no means of transport available. The trekking takes a number of days, usually on uncharted paths in challenging environments that are likely to be hilly or mountainous. Meanwhile, hiking is a long, energetic walk in a natural environment on hiking trails or footpaths for a day or overnight.
Some of the typical differences between hiking and trekking are listed below:
Terrain
The big difference between trekking and hiking is the types of terrain that falls under these categories. Trekkers have not marked trails and often go through unexplored nature, such as mountains, roads, beaches, and many more. Meanwhile, the hikers often use hiking trails marked and through mountains, forests, and hills. In all, trekking has more freedom and doesn't need specific trails and markings.
Time or duration
More than terrain, the duration is the most significant difference between hiking and trekking. As we said a couple of times, trekking usually lasts at least two days, but often even longer than that. Many people that go trekking, more often than not, have a destination in mind. They aspire to reach their destination at a time and can walk thousands of kilometers per trekking trip.
While on the other hand, hikes are shorter in duration than trekking. When somebody goes hiking, that is, in most cases, a few hours-long walks or even a whole day of hiking. Of course, it can also be an overnight experience, but it won't take several days as trekking usually would.
Equipment
As we mentioned earlier, trekking takes more days as compared to hiking. Therefore, without any doubt, the needs of the equipment are also not the same. The equipment one carries also varies depending upon the weather and if the hike is for a day, overnight, or a few hours. However, you can have some essential things, including good hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (hat, sunscreen, and waterproof jacket), a trail map, compass, sunscreen, water, food, and a basic medical kit, be carried.
However, on trekking, you will need more things, including a map or a compass, waterproof jackets, walking poles, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, multi-purpose clothing that's breathable and fast-drying, etc.
Difficulty
Comparing hiking and trekking, hiking is more accessible and cheaper as it takes less physical preparedness and training. As a result, many can go hiking, even if they haven't done it before. Similarly, hiking is easier to plan, and they are on established trails in highly visited areas, so it's easy to find trail information and direction online.
While on the other hand, trekking requires a different level of effort. It takes more days without stopping, and a lot of time goes through different terrains and requires mental and physical preparedness. It also takes a little more planning as you are self-navigating; you need to map your route and familiarize yourself with weather patterns and other dangers that will occur during your trek.
Overall, choosing between hiking and trekking all depends upon you. If you are looking for a long adrenal journey, then go trekking. While if you want to explore nature in one day, then go for hiking.
Trekking Vs. Mountaineering
Trekking vs. Mountaineering, What's the difference? Is there even a difference between them? When you hear these trekking and mountaineering names, you might think they are the same. Sadly, you're mistaken, as each of them serves a different purpose. Only if you learn about the difference between these topics can you know and choose the suitable adventure that suits your physical abilities and skill so that you won't have any difficulties in your journey. So, in the sub-headings below, let's; learn how they are different from each other.
Difficulty
Talking about the level of difficulty of Mountaineering and trekking, Mountaineering is the toughest. It is not only physically demanding but also requires great mental ability. It is also regarded to be one of the more challenging by far. Even though the sport seems so attractive in movies, the reality is that it is pretty challenging and energy-draining. To be a good mountaineer, one has to be a passionate adventure lover with significant mental and physical capabilities and the ability to think and act swiftly.
Mountaineering is a sport requiring climbing up high mountains with altitudes much higher than low-lying hill stations and other peaks. Higher altitudes mean less habitation and vegetation. Also, the weather becomes harsher at higher altitudes, not to mention the unpredictability even for the most experienced sportsperson. Thus, you must be fearless to complete the whole journey. If you are looking for a challenging and demanding adventure that will force you to shatter your comfort zone, go for mountaineering.
Meanwhile, if you are looking for a long leisurely journey by foot along the rich scenery, then go trekking.
Accommodation
While mountaineering, trekking, or hiking, one must learn about survival techniques. Similarly, one must learn how to survive the disaster that can come along the way. This will help endure the harsh and unpredictable weather at high altitudes. So to overcome every difficulty, everyone needs tools that can come in handy. At the same time, while mountaineering, you will need extra things that might not be necessary while trekking. Some of these things are tents, beddings, and tools like crampons, ice axe, ropes, etc. the tools will help you to survive in the mountain.
As mentioned earlier, the needed equipment for trekking are tents, sleeping bags, food, and many more. Also, all these things are needed while climbing mountains as well.
Clothes
Another big difference between trekking and mountaineering is their clothes. While trekking, you will need good trekking shoes, sunglasses, comfortable trousers, a t-shirt, and a hat. But in the case of mountaineering. You need more extra clothes like gloves, snow baskets, jackets and many more. Apart from that, the mountaineer needs more technical equipment than trekking trips, from ice axes and crampons to ropes and helmets.
Likewise, as we said before, if any adventure enthusiast meets all the required preparation, mental ability, and physical strength, you can choose between any of these rejoicing activities.
