Two Best Short Treks
Under this category a hike or walk in the mountain for a day to maximum 7 days are considered short treks. There are several nice view points from cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Usually the road head is about an hour drive and a steep climb to the ridge or to an overnight camp in a lodge. From Kathmandu there are several places around the rim of the valley including Nagarkot and Shivapuri. An hour drive from Pokhara and 5 to 6 hour uphill walk can lead to the viewpoints. You can stay overnight at Dhumpus, Australian camp and also Chandrakot. The walk can be extended to 5 or more days to enjoy mountain walk, visit local villages, walk through rhododendron forests, watch birds, and of course enjoy awesome scenic view of entire mountain range up close. If time is constrain it is possible to drive out early though the graveled road are often rough.
Trek to Ghorepani and Helambu are best short treks. There are three main reasons. First, in a short time it is possible to get to the mountain to see the Himalayan range very close. Second, the walk through remote villages brings you closer to the un-spoilt culture. Third, the road to the mountain is about an hour drive. Actually you can do these two treks in about 5 to 6 days depending upon where you want to end the trek. Though the trek can be made shorter it is always better to use the opportunity to take time and enjoy nature and the wonderful experience the trek gives you away from the regular, mundane and routine city life. From Ghorepani the view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range is spectacular. People enjoy early morning sunrise view from Poon hill. The uphill walk takes about an hour to reach the top. The view of Annapurna massif from Tadapani is equally impressive. In the spring it is very enjoyable to walk through rhododendron forests and small waterfall en-route; it gives enchanting experience. Helambu is a bit different. There are several Tamang and Sherpa villages as you climb to the ridge to Tarkeghyang. The panoramic view of the Himalayan range to the east and the valley beyond are memorable. The monastery at Tarkeyghyang (3349m) and Shermathang (2550m) are beautiful.
Ghorepani Trek – 6 days
Trek Start and at Pokhara Trip Duration: 6 day package (all inclusive lodge trek) Trip Grade: Moderate Maximum Elevation: 3200 meter at Poon Hill Trip Cost: from US$450 per person
Ghorepani (2874m) is the ultimate destination of Annapurna foothill trek. It used to be main pass through which traders with Mules from Mustang and Tibet used to pass through to reach Pokhara (620m). Early morning sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna from Pun hill is very famous. The panoramic view of Annapurna range on the way to Ghandrung village (1939m) is memorable experience. The other highlight of the trek is Ghandrung village itself.
Ghandrung village is situated above Modi Khola (river). It is a large Gurung village. Most of the villagers have served as Gorkhas soldiers in the British and Indian army. The village is one of the best-known villages in the foothill of Annapurna. The village has Annapurna Conservation office. The panoramic view of Annapurna massif dominates the entire skyline.
The trail from Birenthati (1025m) gradually climb to Tirkhedhunga. After an overnight at Tirkhedhunga climb the steep trail to Ulleri (1960m). Continue to ascend the trail through thick oak and rhododendron forests till you reach Ghorepani (2874m). Lodge accommodation is further on the ridge. Next day climb the hill to the summit of Poon Hill to see sunrise over the Himalayan range. Descend to Ghorepani. The trail from Ghorepani climb slightly up the ridge and then make steep descend. The trail is narrow through rhododendron forest to Banthati (3103m). The trail goes up and down hill to Tadapani (2721m). Then descend gradually to Ghandrung (1939m). Make steep descend to Modi Khola (river) and climb to another Gurung village – Landrung (1646m). The easy trail continues to ascend gradually to Tolka (1700m) until the pass at 2439m and then descend to Pothana (1981m). On the last day walk further to Dhumpus (1650m) situated at the end of the ridge and make steep descent through village of terraced rice field to the floor of Yangri khola (river). Drive from the Phedi (base of the hill) to Pokhara.
Helambu Trek – 5 days
Trek start & end in Kathmandu-from Sundarijal to Malemchi Duration: 5 day package (all inclusive lodge trek) Trip Grade: Moderate Maximum Elevation: 3600 meter at Thare Pati Trip Cost: from US$450 per person
Helambu is the closest region in north of Kathmandu. It is inhabited by Tamang and Sherpa in the upper section. It provides typical glimpse of life in the village of Nepal. The Tamang and Sherpa villages of Helambu in north of Kathmandu valley presents an easy gateway. This area because of its low elevation and the Sherpa villages make it an interesting 5 day loop. Start early morning. Take a short drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1380m). The trail to Helambu climbs up to Borlang Bhanjyang (2438m) and to Chisopani (2200m). There is a sweeping view of the central Himalayas. Follow the ridge-line towards north to Thare Pati (3600m) then turn east to Melemchi Gaon (2530m) and Tarke Gyang (2530m), These are principle villages of the area. Descend to Timbu (2534) and drive to Kathmandu.
