3 Amazing Alternatives To The Packed Annapurna Circuit By Dustin J. Walker

The Annapurna Circuit has been a mainstay on Top 10 trekking lists for years. The reasons are obvious: hikers get to tread through alpine forests, thick jungle and the remarkable high altitude desert of the Tibetan plateau during this famous three-week trek. Buddhist culture, killer views - this is truly one of the most epic trails in the world.
But unfortunately, it's no longer a remote mountain escape.
Not only did more than 100,000 people tread along this route in 2012, but roads have been gradually extended at both ends of the trail. And (as of mid-2013) construction continues. This work will give locals access to much-needed markets, but the rumble of traffic doesn't exactly improve the ambience along the circuit.
Fortunately, government and conservation organizations - as well as some innovative tour companies - have been promoting some of the less-treaded trails in the region. Meanwhile, the Great Himalaya Trail is still being developed. When completed, this network of existing, but lesser-known treks, will form one of the world's longest and highest trails. Even better, the new trails mean more villages will reap the economic benefits of tourism, rather than it being concentrated in one place.
So if you're itching to trek in Nepal, consider one of the trails below rather than adding your footsteps to the Annapurna Circuit.
Manaslu Circuit
Much like the Annapurna Circuit, this route begins at a low altitude and then climbs through different climate zones before hitting a high peak - in this case, the Larkye La at 16,930 feet. The trail then drops back down again before circling one of Nepal's most staggering peaks.
This route isn't as developed as the Annapurna, but there are ample tea houses to stay at along the way and trail improvements have been made more recently. You'll also have ample opportunity to experience the Hindu and Buddhist-based cultures in local villages during this 14-day trek, but perhaps the biggest reward is the unspoiled views of Manaslu - the eighth-highest peak in the world at about 26,200 feet.
This trek is often referred to as the next Annapurna Circuit. Although only 2,000 people hike it every year, those numbers are climbing steadily. More information is available at the Manaslu Circuit Trek website.
The Tamang Heritage Trail
Cultural trekking at its finest. This unique trail, which takes anywhere from 12-17 days to complete, leads adventurers through Nepal's remarkable Langtang Region. A relatively new route, the Tamang Heritage Trail was created via the Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Program, which aims to help struggling villages in Nepal through sustainable tourism.
Roam this route and immerse yourself in traditional Tibetan culture as you pass through tiny villages. Terraced fields, tranquil valleys and a natural hot springs are among the highlights. The terrain isn't as rugged as the Annapurna, reaching a maximum altitude of about 13,451 feet. Still, this is a challenging - and very enriching - trek.
GHT Upper Dolpo
Foreigners weren't allowed access to this region until 1996, which means ancient customs here haven't been significantly influenced by tourism yet. The villages reflect a culture that's more akin to pre-China Tibet than anywhere else in Nepal.
Different tour companies and guides offer varying versions of this trek, which follows a chunk of the developing Great Himalaya Trail. But you can expect to tackle it in about 20 days. Along the way, you'll endure challenging terrain while following ancient trade routes that wind through five mountain passes above 16,400 feet. Explore Buddhist relics and meet nomads while on this epic trek.
There are other alternatives out there
This is by no means a complete list. Do a little research yourself and you'll uncover even more treks that offer an experience comparable to the Annapurna Circuit. By hiking a lesser-known route, you'll not only be taking some pressure off a heavily traveled trail, but will also be enjoying an adventure most people only read about in magazines.

Dustin Walker is a travel copywriter, journalist and editor/owner of Slick & Twisted Trails -- a trekking blog dedicated to helping folks get off the beaten path.
Subscribe to the blog and grab your free copy of '23 Amazing Treks That Won't Stay Hidden For Long' at http://www.slickandtwistedtrails.com/ebook.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dustin_J._Walker

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8085591

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek - An Amazing Journey By Ellen Taylor

The season for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek begins in earnest in October. The advantage of heading off into the mountains before then is blissfully quiet trails. The disadvantage is that the weather can be a little unpredictable...
It was late September when I set off for the Sanctuary. The first three days were perfect. We wound our way through vivid green rice terraces and dense rhododendron and bamboo forest as multicoloured butterflies fluttered around us and inquisitive langur monkeys peered down from treetops. Emerging into a clearing I would do a double take as a distant peak appeared, dazzling against the blue sky. Beginning early we would reach our cozy, comfortable teahouses by mid afternoon to be welcomed by smiling Nepalis offering welcome refreshment. Day 3 began with an exciting pre-dawn hike to watch mountain summits turn from icy gray to a warm glowing pink with the first rays of the sun: the first of many matchless views on this trek.
On day 4, I looked out to see that the stunning view had been swallowed by billows of cloud and rain. Three days later, without a pause in the rain, the trail had become a combination of deep mud, running water and treacherous wet mossy rocks. While the dramatic snowy peaks were hidden, though, the scenery was still beautiful in a misty, atmospheric way with layers of hazy, green slopes cut through with waterfalls, reminiscent of a Japanese painting.
Over the next couple of days the adventure heightened as we crossed waterfall ledges and turbulent streams, balancing precariously on rickety bridges and stepping stones. Rising to 3,700 meters on day 6, the altitude kicked in as breathing became a little harder and the uphill gradient more of a challenge. Then the miracle occurred! On day 7 we reached Annapurna Base Camp: 4130 meters; visibility zero! But later in the day, as we huddled together in the warmth of the lodge, the clouds gradually lifted. For an hour we were blessed with a jaw-dropping 360 degree panorama in this incredible mountain amphitheater, surrounded by towering snow covered giants glittering against the blue backdrop. I stood gazing at the sharp outline of Macchapuchre, unable to believe I was so close. The huge bulk of Annapurna South was blinding in the direct sun appearing as a mirage. It was one of the most spellbinding sights I have ever experienced. Then, suddenly, the clouds rolled up from the green valley below and within seconds the magic show was over: the vista was gone but the euphoria remained.
We retraced our steps for a couple of days to Chomrong, where, on day 9, the sky began to change... After some rumbling thunder and a few flashes of lightning a rainbow appeared like a beacon of hope and slowly the clouds thinned, revealing the valley through which we had walked up and back, with the mighty white mountains standing out in all their glory. It was stunning.
The final three days were clear and, retreating from the Sanctuary , we enjoyed a succession of fabulous mountain views, particularly from Ghandruk with its foreground of traditional houses and friendly villagers working the terraces.
So... was it worth it? Absolutely. For the reward of that brief but intoxicating encounter with the some of the highest mountains on earth at the climax of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek: sheer, unadulterated joy.

For more information on the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek visit http://www.itreknepal.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ellen_Taylor

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/769687

How to Choose a Backpack For Trekking Trips By Caroline Letrange

Holiday time is coming up. You've booked a nice trekking trip and you are ready to gear up for your next adventure challenge. Whatever destination or altitude, traveling light is essential to make your trip an enjoyable moment. But choosing the right backpack is sometimes a tough task.
However if you stick to some easy to remember tips, you would be able to pick up the backpack that suits your needs.
1 - Think comfy
Whether you're on the trail for an altitude trek like Everest Base Camp or on a trekking peak like Kilimanjaro, your backpack must fit you comfortably. A 40 Liter pack is the right size to stuff warm clothes, snack bars, a camera, gloves and your water bottles.When carrying your backpack the weight have to be transferred to your hips, not to your shoulders. Then, always adjust your waist belt first on your hips. Make sure your straps are well padded and body adjustable. The backpanels should maintain your lumbar in full comfort. A cooling mesh system will allow air ventilation to wick moisture and perspiration. Most bags are designed with adjustable straps and released buckles for a greater support. Some outfitters also propose ergonomic shoulder straps to prevent all constraint. Finally, adjust your padded shoulder strap system and the chest strap to prevent shoulder straps from sliding down.
2 - Body balance
Inner framed backpack are commonly used to strengthen the structure of your bag. The inner frame provides maximum support, safe balance and prevents the bag from folding when carrying heavy loads. It keeps you stable and well-balanced at all times whilst giving you the freedom of movement. Walking on narrow trails, hiking down steep slopes or crossing streams is no longer a problem when your bag stick to your back and follows your movements in full safety.Exterior compression straps are wisely stitched throughout your backpack. Tight them firmly to maintain the load in place and avoid unpleasant swaying on uneven terrain. Use the external loops to attach bedroll or mattress to save space in your bag.
3 - Pocket or not pocket?
Your bag may look nice with all that side pockets! Some backpacks have plenty of storage pockets while others are fully pocket free. Your choice will depend on your trekking activity, not on the fancy look of your bag. Hiking backpack designed for gentle walk will generally have deep meshy side pockets to store bottles of water or little gear. Your stuff are then handy and easy to grab. Those bags are fine for low trekking with less than 4/5 hours walk a day on gentle terrain. As you get through mountain trails or uneven terrain, trekking conditions can be harsh and tracks become really treacherous. A Slim backpack profile designed for mountaineering activities is more appropriate. Pack your gear in inner compartments to keep all gear tidy and stabilize the load to maintain body balance. Free pocket bags prevent gear from hanging and hooking up. Top lid pocket is usually safer and more convenient to hold extra gear. On mountain trips, front stretch mesh pocket for additional stowage, ice axe loops and elastic cord compression system usually offer excellent gear stability.
4 - Hydration compartment
Drinking while active prevents muscle cramps and, in altitude, early symptoms of Acute Mountain sickness. Store your flexible bladder in an internal hydration pouch equipped with a hose guide to keep the nozzle accessible to drink regularly. The benefits? No need to take off your backpack to drink. Less bottles to carry. And once the bladder is sealed, the liquid won't leak inside and soak your fluffy slipping bag for the night!
5 - Extra features
Water-resistant and anti-abrasive liner, a good and robust lock system and a bright (but fancy) color that would ease the job of a rescue team to locate you in alpine terrain, are the final touch before setting off to your next adventure trekking trip.
And finally, have fun!

Caroline Letrange is a Tour leader and a successful expedition organiser. She attempted Mt Everest in 2006 and Cho Oyu in 2004 after years spent on mountain routes in Chamonix in the French Alps. In 2000, she climbed Mt Kilimanjaro and then travelled extensively in Asia and Africa. In 2007, Caroline moved to London to set up Reach Summit. Today, although she spends most of her time in Nepal, she enjoys travelling around the globe to lead mountain trips.
http://www.reachsummit.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Letrange

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3496940

Tips to Enjoy the Best of Adventure Trekking Tour to India By Sanjog KR

"There is nothing like walking to get the feel of a country. A fine landscape is like a piece of music; it must be taken at the right tempo. Even a bicycle goes too fast." - Paul Scott Mowrer
Wish to explore the untouched cultures and life styles of the hilly terrains? If you love challenges and desire to tread the fascinating virgin trails made by nature, trekking in India is the ideal activity for you. Most of the unexplored mountain ranges of India offer breathtaking and enthralling trekking routes. The majestic Himalayan, Karakoram, Zanskar and other mountain ranges are well known for tour and trekking in India . These places also offer limitless possibilities for true adventure of India like mountaineering, skiing, and river rafting.
With special points of interest for the trekkers, the Garhwal and Kumaon regions of Uttaranchal, Chamba and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh and Zanskar in Jammu and Kashmir, Amarnath Trek, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra , and a few routes of Darjeeling and Sikkim are the most frequented places for trekking in India. Unlike other adventure sports, trekking does not require prior training or practice, but these are certain 'Dos and Don'ts' recommended to every trekker.
Precautions
Apart from being cautious about the physical fitness, one must choose his/her trek route very carefully for this particular Indian adventure . Some treks may be more difficult or may involve high altitudes. Therefore it is generally advisable to be accompanied by a local guide. Always carry a first aid kit, which should include basic medicines and bandages. Carry a map handy, a firm rucksack with broad straps, sleeping bag, foam mattress, comfortable walking shoes, raincoat, torch, matchboxes, umbrella, and water bottles with you while on India trekking tours . Keep the pace of the trek slow to enjoy the best of panoramic and magnificent sites of the awesome mountains, rivers, flora and fauna. Treks up to 4900 m require no permission, and can be undertaken on tourist visas. But for going above 4900 m, the foreigners are supposed to take prior permission from the IMF ( Indian Mountaineering Foundation ). Camera permits are also necessary.
Treks in India are the most exciting options for a holiday. An adventure trekking tour to India is the best way to know any land, its people, its culture and traditions.

Apart from the spectacular views, a number of hilly terrains and foothills are the key destinations for trekking tour packages India. India trekking tours [http://www.allindia-travel-tours.com/adventure-tour-packages/trekking-tour.html] are the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. Almost all the peaks in India were discovered and made suitable for trekking during the British rule. Treks in India are among the most amazing treks of the world.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sanjog_KR

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2160731

Trekking In Nepal: Clothing and Gear List By Pinky S Singh

Trekking in Nepal means being subjected to the harsh environment of the Himalayas, so trekkers who wish to see these great giants up-close need to be well prepared.
There are few things that trekkers can equip themselves with to be prepared for the challenge ahead. In the clothing and gears department, smart choices need to be made to have a comfortable and great experience, so here's what you will need!
T-shirts and Shirts -
Versatile layering is the answer for trekking in Nepal. You'll be wearing multiple but light layers of clothing as it'll help you move around comfortably, and is easier to put on or take off as per your need on the trek.
Trekkers usually wear half-sleeved shirts for most of the time at the start of the trek. But it's better to get full-sleeved ones with a collar to avoid sunburn.
Get shirts/t-shirts that will absorb all the sweat and moisture and is breathable but also dries quickly. You don't want to get a cold from your own sweat!
Trousers, Shorts and Skirts -
For trekking in Nepal, long trousers with zip-offs are of great use as they double up as shorts, which can be useful throughout the day and are also windproof and/or waterproof. Also, they are comfortable and dry quick after a wash. If possible, buy one with zippered pockets, so your wallet and cell phone don't fall off!
For nights, you can change into thermal long johns with warm inner-wear. Also, these can be work during extremely cold days on the trek.
For ladies, skirts are great too when you have to do your business in the wild and there is no hidden spot in sight. Do wear tights underneath them, especially if you're wearing short ones, as you have to be considerate of the culture here and also be aware of the insects!
Long skirts and wrap-around skirts are handy too when you have to take a bath in a crowded stream with other trekkers and porters.
Note:
Don't wear very revealing or skimpy clothes! This goes for both men and women who are planning on trekking in Nepal. This part of the world is culturally sensitive, so respect peoples' views and beliefs. Plus, being covered protects you from getting sunburned!
Down Jacket or Fibre-Filled Jacket -
Weather is an unpredictable thing while trekking. It can get icy cold, windy, sunny and hot and can drizzle lightly or rain heavily in a single trek. The windproof and waterproof jackets are a must to bear these elements while on a trek in Nepal.
So, down jackets are going to be your best friend during the trek. They are light and compressible enough to carry in your backpack but are rather expensive. There are places in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Namche Bazaar where you can rent down jackets.
You can switch down jackets with fibre-filled jackets which are less expensive but are a bit heavy and bulky. You can use these jackets as your pillow on the trek too, if need be.
Trekking Boots -
If don't have proper trekking shoes, your experience of trekking in Nepal, in short - will be HELL! So do get your hands on a really good pair of trekking boots.
Your trekking shoes should be waterproof and should have ankle support with a good grip for difficult treks, including trekking on snow, over scree and rocks. But for fairly easier treks like the Helambu Circuit Trek which has less harsh terrain, lightweight running shoes are excellent.
If your trekking shoes are new, then go for short hikes wearing them and wear them in before you go for the treks in Nepal.
You can also take some lightweight sneakers and/or sandals for walking around camp or when you have a rest day, as you may not want to wear those hot and heavy boots.
Finally, don't forget the spare laces!
Trekking Socks -
To protect your feet from blisters and frostbites on harsher terrains, socks are a must. So, you should have at least 2 - 3 pairs of cotton, woolen and linen socks each.
Be sure to try them on with your trekking shoes to see if they go well together or not (not the fashion, I'm talking about comfort here!).
Trust me when I say you don't want to be feeling uncomfortable even a bit when trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal.
Hats and Gloves -
Hats are important to keep you warm in cold weather and can also protect you from sunburns. Get wide hats/sun-hats that will protect your ears and neck from the sun and the cold. You can get further protection with a scarf too. Also, hats can be switched with woolen beanies for cold nights.
It can get chilly and cold on the trek even during the day at higher elevations. So, some warm gloves with a waterproof outer shell can be your best friend. For cold nights on the trek and in winter, it's better to have a pair of mittens to protect your fingers and keep them warm.
Sunglasses or Goggles -
While trekking in Nepal, the sun can be quite harsh and so can the snow and the dusty winds, and too much exposure to strong sunlight or snow without sunglasses or goggles can induce headaches.
It is essential that you protect your eyes from getting infected and also prevent those headaches.
You may lose or break those sunglasses or goggles, so keep an extra pair safe in a hard or metal case in your backpack.
Sunscreen, Lip Balm and Cold Cream -
Sunscreen is a must! Getting sunburnt isn't pleasant, so put on sunscreen on all the exposed parts of the body.
Chapped lips and dry cracked skin is painful too. Keep those lip balms (possibly with SPF) and cold creams handy!
Towels -
Bring a towel that is light and thin, easy to wash and one that dries quickly. Get one for your personal use and one for wiping the dews that have settled on tents and/or sleeping bags.
Gaiters -
Gaiters are useful to keep your legs warm and protect it when walking on snow at higher altitudes while trekking. It also helps keep the legs and shoes clean on muddy trail during monsoon.
First-Aid Kit -
For your first-aid kit, make sure you have following items:

1. Water Purification tablets
2. Diamox for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)
3. Painkillers
4. Medicines for diarrhea, constipation, skin, eye and ear problems
5. Tapes
6. Bandages
7. Aspirin
8. Anti-allergic cream
9. Anti-septic cream
10. Salt for leeches

Other personal items (optional) -

1. Safety pins (several creative uses)
2. Anti-bacterial gel (to keep those clean hands EXTRA clean)
3. Pocket knife and/or scissors
4. Padlock (for locking up your room in a lodge)
5. Insect repellant
6. Binoculars (for those with poor eyesight)
7. Umbrella (for those who hate rain)
8. Stove (for those going hardcore in the wild)
9. Tweezers (in case you need to get splinters or thorns out of you)
10. Sewing needle and thread (if duct tape doesn't cut it!)

I hope this helps you to have great trekking adventures in Nepal, and remember to follow the mantra - Pack Wise, Pack Light!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pinky_S_Singh

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8787317

Adventure Trekking in Nepal - Thrills of Wondering in Himalayan Mountains By Aisha Arora

Nepal is a beautiful landlocked country in South Asia, between India and China. It is a vast outdoor adventure playground with some of the best trekking trails on the earth. It is home to eight out of the fourteen highest mountain peaks in the world including Mount Everest, the highest mountain peak in the world. Located in the great Himalayas, it offers amazing adventure tourism and outdoor activities to enjoy. It offers adventure activities like trekking, hiking, mountaineering, rock climbing, peak climbing, kayaking, white water rafting, mountain biking, paragliding, wildlife safari, etc. Apart from adventure tourism, Nepal also offers ample opportunities for cultural & heritage tourism. There are numerous cultural and heritage attractions in this country.
Among various adventure activities available, adventure trekking in Nepal is most popular. There some of the finest trekking & hiking trails in this country appealing attentions of trekkers and adventure enthusiasts from all over the world. In short, it is trekkers' paradise. A well-organized trekking tour in this country provides tourists ample opportunities for mountain tourism and also provides opportunity to explore natural and cultural wealth of this country. On trekking tour in this country you will have a wonderful opportunity to enjoy stunning scenery, eye-catching landscapes, snowy mountain passes, spectacular glaciers, glorious mountain landscapes and remote hamlets & villages.
Nepal has numerous trekking trails. With some of the best trekking trails the country has been recognized as the most popular adventure trekking destination in the world. Everest region, Annapurna region and Langtang region are among some of popular trekking regions in Nepal. The Everest region is the most exciting and adventurous regions in Nepal where you will enjoy amazing trekking and hiking experience. Annapurna region is the most visited and explore region in Nepal. This region offers ample opportunities for adventure tourism and trekking and hiking tours. Langtang region is one another popular trekking region of this country. Trekking in this region is easily accessible from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal.
Some of popular trekking trails and routes in Nepal include Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, Ghorepani Trek, Jomsom - Muktinath Trek, Gokyo Trek, Arun Valley - Makalu Base Camp Trek, Dolpo Region Trek, Mustang Region Trek, Dhaulagiri Region Trek, etc. These popular treks attract trekkers from all over the world on exciting Nepal trekking tours.
Well, if you truly want to enjoy the excitement of adventure trekking Nepal would be the best destination for you. You shall never forget the charm of trekking in Annapurna, Everest and Langtang regions of Nepal.

Aisha Arora is an expert writer primarily focusing on travel and trekking related topics. She has written many articles on Himalayan Trekking and Adventure trekking in Nepal. For more information about adventure tourism in Nepal, visit MatNepal.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aisha_Arora

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6322838

Backcountry Hiking Gear by Abdul Hooper

Most of the path is above private residence so togain accessyou will need to have a path guide from the Waskahegan Trail Affiliation.The tutorial provides complete particulars of the accessibility factors and a description of the trail.To get a manual go to the trail's web site at.

Backcountry hiking gear need to be utilised in this variety of exercise like for illustration the cooking resources, hiking sandals of footwear, hiking stick, and backpacks and also the food items and h2o for their personal consumption. Backpackers are informed that elevation in the park ranges from 6,200 to 13,063 feet and due to this elevation array they are advised to be ready for hugely variable temperatures conditions. In the visitor center elevation of 6,825 feet the weather conditions can be really heat and nice by April contrary to the higher elevation places that are usually snow-bound until late June that consists of some of the most scenic and inspiring places for backpacking. At the elevations of 10,000 feet and above snows and/or electrical storms can be daily life threatening, and can happen any month of the 12 months. Backpackers are warned for any achievable extreme ailments at the highest elevations in the park and they are encouraged to bring by themselves hiking gear and clothing for a broad range of temperature and climate circumstances

Even now a great deal of hikers desire to hike independently in building nations. You have to carry your possess pack but the experience is so a lot greater at minimum for most folks, me included.

Camping gear is expensive. In some nations the expense of your hiking gear alone can feed a for a 12 months.

Don't forget that these are just secondary safeguards, when it happens to maintaining oneself protected it requires a tiny bit of common perception.

When hiking in an establishing country, you get the chance to attempt genuine neighborhood meals considerably better than restaurants for visitors.

If you are worried about hygiene and sanitation, journey with a tour business that will assist you locate the very best accessible neighborhood amenities.

- When youre done with your camping gear, donate it - and some of your time,to a neighborhood scout troop. Your regional youth scouting groups are often on the lookout for a supporting hand from outside enthusiasts. You will really feel wonderful satisfaction realizing that your trusty previous gear will support advantage other folks!

The Lake Tahoe Location has a lot of lovely hikes encompassing this scenic lake on the California Nevada border. Most feature views of the deep blue h2o. Several of these hikes can be accomplished calendar year around, but be positive to have the correct tools and be prepared if you are hiking in winter season. The Mt Tallac climb is specially nice.

Other noteable hiking trails in Southern California consist of Box Canyon, Mugu Rock, the Punchbowls, Red Rock, Rindge Dam and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Location.

Hiking footwear is one particular of the most crucial camping and hiking gear since if you have difficulties as an outcome of your hiking footwear it can actually spoil your hiking excursion. You will not likely be in a position to really get pleasure from hiking, as you must.

The very best way to select hiking tent is not by its bodyweight but by evaluating the situations that you will be subjected to. In other words, you need to know what sort of local weather and temperatures you will experience although hiking and camping.

About the Author

Backcountry Hiking Gear - Hiking Gear