Home to myriad of majestic peaks, Nepal is one of the ideal destinations if you want to experience the ultimate joy of conquering a summit. With eight peaks above 8000 meters, Nepal is also considered as the country of Himalayas. A gem in itself, the country is blessed with the highest peak in the world, Mt. Everest (8848 m), which is one of the major attractions for the travellers. Peak climbing in general term refers to climbing mountains below 6500 meters whereas Expeditions usually involve peaks above 6500 meters.
Peak climbing in Nepal is usually popular among small mountains which require less skill and climbing tactics and require less than 30 days to climb. In Nepal, there are around 114 mountain peaks open for a climber to conquer. These peaks allow a traveller to conquer the gigantic summit and battle with the snow without having to spend much. Everest, Annapurna and Langtang are the most popular peak climbing regions of the country. These regions consist of the most well-known and highest peaks around the world that is an absolute dream for every traveller. Mera Peak (6461m), Island Peak (6189m), Lobuche peak (6119m), Phokalde peak (5806m) in the Everest Region takes you along national parks like Sagarmatha National park and Makalu Barun National park. These peak climbing journeys familiarizes a traveler with the Sherpa community at the same time. Yala Peak (5500m) and Naya Kanga peak (5844m) in the Langtang region is suitable for the beginners to conquer. Similarly, Chulu east peak (6429m), Pisang peak (6091m) and Mardi Himal (5553m) are also some of the celebrated peak climbing in Annapurna Region. Climbers are required to obtain a special permit in order to climb a peak around the country. These permits are available by filling an application form which then should be approved by the respected officials of the region.
While peak climbing involves fewer extremities, mountain expedition is a different case. Mountain Expeditions take you to the summit of some of the highest peaks in the world including Mount Everest (8848m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8188m), Mt. Lhotse (8414m), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m), and so on. Beginning from Kanchenjunga to the east, the Mt. Kanchenjunga expedition is considered as one of the most challenging one all over the world. Off beaten trails and harsh geographical arrangements also contribute in the difficulty throughout the journey. The expedition to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8848m) is not just a challenge but also offers the feeling of victory and triumph to the climbers. Mt. Lhotse, MT. Cho Oyu and Ama Dablam are also glorious in their own heights. Mt. Annapurna I (8091m) stands tall giving climbers a fierce challenge to scale its summit. There are a number of expeditions around Nepal like Makalu expedition (8463m), Baruntse expedition (7219m), Langtang Lirung expedition (7227m), Pumori expedition (7165m), Manaslu expedition (8163m) and so on. These are also physically and mentally demanding which usually take over more than 45 days to complete the journey. Climbers should also undergo trainings prior to beginning the expedition. Likewise, a special permit is also equally important which can be obtained by filling an expedition permit application.
However, a person might experience altitude sickness as he/she ascend higher. The symptoms of altitude sickness begin to show symptoms from the altitude above 3000 m. To prevent this circumstance, the traveler should be prepared with prescribed medicines. He/she should also have a travel insurance which covers emergency evacuation and helicopter rescue. Besides, one should avoid extreme physical excursion.
Peak climbing and mountain expeditions are best done in the season of autumn (Sept to Dec) and spring (March to May). During these months, the sky is clear and the trails are pleasant. The mountains are not covered with heavy fogs unlike during winter season. Expedition and peak climbing requires the usage of different equipment like ice axe, harness, crampons etc. throughout the journey. Climbers are also advised to carry tents for accommodation purposes.
Peak climbing and mountain expeditions in Nepal are a very popular adventurous sport. A geographical beauty, Nepal is one of the most ideal destinations for these activities. Not only does it focus on the Himalayan beauty, but it also connects the traveler with the ethnic communities that makes the trip unforgettable experience.
