The Nepal Himalaya, extending for eight hundred kilometers from the Kanchanjunga massif to the Mahakali River accounts for a third of the Himalayan mountain system. Between these two boundaries stand more than thirteen hundred peaks with an altitude of more than six thousand metres. Eight of the world’s fourteen peaks exceeding 8000 metres are in the Nepal Himalaya- Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) and other 240 peaks over 4877 in Nepal provide an endless challenge to mountaineering expeditionary teams. The number of mountaineers is increasing annually and popular peaks are booked every year in large numbers. Sagarmatha, Kanchanjunga 8598 m, Makalu 8463 m, Dhaulagiri 8167 m and Annapurna 8078 m are all located here. The Nepal Himalaya has 240 peaks exceeding 6074 metres in elevation. The Himalaya form one of the majestic features of the Nepali landscape and are of exceptional interest for mountaineers and are undoubtedly the most impressive scenic spots in the world. Standing as sentinels across the Northern border of Nepal these Himalayan mountains have captured the dreams, the desires and imagination of men all over the world, known as ‘’the Roof of the world’’ covered with white snow capped peaks, touching the sky, magnificent glaciers, flower decorated meadows, serene valleys passed by swift running streams.

TREKKING

Trekking is the only way of really knowing the people and places of Nepal. The Himalayan slopes to an altitude of 5500m is within the scope of ordinary tours and treks. Trekking in Nepal’s large hills intersected by valleys and rivers has its own fun, adventure and enlightening experience. The rugged mountain terrain is very attractive and challenging as the green valleys and hills are also very charming.

Trekking can be enjoyed in all seasons. The most popular seasons are spring (Feb –May) and autumn (Sep –Nov). Winter is very cold above 4000 m and in high mountain passes covered with snow but is enjoyable at lower altitudes. Trekking occurs more in easily accessible areas as Everest region, Pokhara, Helambu, Gossainkunda and Langtang. Generally, trekkers like to visit the more famous regions like Everest or the Jomsom with the most dramatic scenery. But there are certain parts of the Himalayan region popular for classic trekking such as Muktinath, Manang, Lamjung, Jumla and Rara. Even in the monsoon season (June –Aug) trekkers can trek in the rain–shadow areas north of the Himalaya like Mustang, upper Mustang and Dolpa. The best way to experience Nepal’s rich natural beauty and cultural riches is to visit them on foot.

RAFTING

Rafting has always been another principle type of adventure tourism in Nepal. Rafting down the roaring Himalayan rivers provides scenic beauty near at hand and a chance to explore the hidden geographical and cultural mysteries.

Rafting trips are of varying duration and usually can be enjoyed on such rivers as the Trisuli, Narayani, Marshandi, Seti and Sunkoshi. Rafting trips can be scenic float–trips down calm, shallow rivers or more adventurous ‘’white–water rafting’’ where one has to shoot the rapids. White water rafting means sailing down a rushing river in an inflatable rubber raft or white water Kayak over crashing waves and swirling rapids for excitement and enjoyment. Nepal’s mountain rivers such as Kali Gandaki, Bhote Koshi, Marshyangdi, Karnali as well as the Sun Koshi all pass through terrain with mountain gorges in a virtual maze of canyons and boulders making these rivers go through remote canyons and deep gorges with extra ferocity and charm. River rafting is popular and an adventure and a flourishing business.

WILDLIFE SAFARI

Nepal is also a nature lover’s paradise. The country is greatly influenced by the topography and the flora and fauna with the difference in the climate conditions and the ranges of altitudes. The most spectacular wildlife is in the tropical Terai region in which Chitwan National Park is located. The Himalayan mountain areas also have potential for observation and exploration. Adventures in the wilderness can be enjoyed in the heart of the Terai’s tropical forest much of which makes up the Chitwan National Park full of varied species of flora and fauna. Together with the jungle lodges inside the park with complete jungle programs such as elephant safari, canoeing, jungle drive, bird watching and cultural shows which furnish adventure in the wilderness, visitors will also encounter the exotic jungle environment amidst a sweet home experience.

National Parks and wildlife Reserves such as Chitwan National Park in Inner Terai, Bardia National Park in Eastern Terai, Sukla Phanta Reserve in Far Western Terai, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in Eastern Terai and Parsa Wildlife Reserve in central Terai are all located in the Terai with their natural habitat for mammals and variety of birds. The visitor can visit these parks and enjoy alpine and sub-alpine fauna and flora in their natural glamour. Conservation areas in particular are trying to carry out successful natural resource management by educating the local population as well as trekkers. National parks and wildlife reserves are considered to be one of world’s last remaining forests stocked with rare species of vegetation and wildlife. The jungle excursions are organized with rafting or with trekking which offer the chance to observe the exotic species of animals and birds and the lifestyle and festivals of the local residents.

Highest, Deepest & Rarest found in Nepal

Highest Peak of the World: Mt. Everest, 8848 m. Solokhumbu, Sagarmatha Zone

Deepest Gorge in the world: Dana Gorge located in Magdi district, Height 1200 m.

Lake situated at the highest altitude: Tilicho Lake located in Manang District, Height 4919 m. above sea level.

Deepest Valley of the world: Arun Valley located at the height of 457 m. above sea level. It is situated 8391 meters deeper than Mt. Everest.

Highest Fall: Silghudi Falls of Dolpa district. Height 167 m.

River originated from the highest point: Arun River, Height 8012m. above sea level. This river is originated from the highest point and touches the lowest point on earth.

Highest Mountain Range: It starts from Nambra Bakha at 7756m. to Nanga Parbat 8126m. This range includes 17 highest peaks of the world above 8000 m.

Bird found only in Nepal: Spiny Babbler

Highest rice plantation field: JuiloValley in Jumla District, situated at 2850 m.

Mushroom found only in Nepal: Trafina Nepalesinera

Highest Fishing destination: Rara Lake in Mugu district. The lake is situated at 3000 m above sea level.

Highest Canyon: Luluko Canyon located in Manag District.

People living in highest altitude: Sherpa. They live at the heights ranging from 3048 m. to 4267 m.

Valley in the highest place: Nana Gaon located at the height of 5739 m.

Flower found at the highest altitude: Stealeria Dicumbus, which is found above 6492 m.

National park at highest altitude: Sagarmatha National Park located in Solukhumbu District.

Hotel at highest altitude: Hotel Everest View

Airstrip at the highest point: Syangbochhe Airstrip, 3874 m. above sea level.