Kandoo Adventures

Kandoo Adventureshttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/about/contributors/kandoo-adventuresKandoo Adventureshttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southern-asia/nepal/trekking-food-in-nepalWorried about getting hungry on your trek in Nepal? Here's what to pack and what to expect to see on your tea house menu.2017-01-25T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southern-asia/nepal/trekking-food-in-nepalhttps://www.worldnomads.comIf there’s one thing that trekking for eight hours does, it’s working up an appetite. In the good old days of trekking in Nepal, you really only had one option on your menu: dal bhat (beans, rice <g class="gr_ gr_71 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="71" data-gr-id="71">and</g> vegetable curry). Today, with tourism now soaring in the tiny mountain nation, food options have become varied and often delicious. So, if you’re planning on a trekking adventure, here are the best option available, plus our tips for making the most out of your culinary experience in Nepal. <ul> <li><a href="#full-board"> Full Board Treks vs A La Carte </a></li> <li><a href="#whats-on-offer"> What’s on Offer </a></li> <li><a href="#mealtimes"> Mealtimes </a></li> <li><a href="#byo-food"> Bring Your Own Food </a></li> <li><a href="#rubbish"> Dealing With Rubbish </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="full-board">Full Board Treks vs A La Carte</h2> Until recently, most trekking agencies offered full-board treks, meaning your meals are provided and you ate what you’re given. However, with the modernization of tea houses in Nepal, more and more trekkers expressed a wish to try the local cuisine on offer. It’s now far more common to purchase a half-board trek and choose your dinner from the extensive menus available. I would always recommend this option as it offers far more variety to your daily meals, gives you an opportunity to interact with the locals and allows for a much more authentic experience. <h2 id="whats-on-offer">What’s on Offer</h2> Thanks to a booming tourist industry, tea houses now offer menus with 30 or 40 options. Dhal Bhatas most tea houses will refill any empty section of the plate as you go. This is perfect for the hungry trekker with a thirst for calorie replenishment! Most menus in Nepal consist of potato dishes, noodle dishes, soup dishes, rice dishes, bread dishes, Dhal Bhat dishes and egg /porridge dishes. It’s more of a gamble than anything else when you order. Each tea house offers different versions of the same thing and you never really know what you’re going to get till you get it. Makes sure to try the Sherpa stew though! Most tea houses now offer up Western-style options too, such as pizza, pasta, and steak. Be warned though, these are not what you would expect back home and can often be disappointing. <h2 id="mealtimes">Mealtimes</h2> Mealtimes are a busy affair. Trekkers from all over the area literally descend upon tea houses en masse. Food is operated on a first-come-first-serve basis and I always advise to order as soon as you arrive to avoid disappointment. Food comes out quickly and you get a lot for your money. Although food is exceptionally cheap, try to budget around $20 per day to accommodate all meals and (more importantly) drinks! <h2 id="byo-food">Bring Your Own Food</h2> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/nepal/trekking-food-kandoo.jpg" /><figcaption>Trekking in Nepal. Photo credit: Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures</figcaption><figcaption></figcaption></figure> With so much walking, you’ll need to keep up your strength. Make sure you bring along some energy bars to snack on as you walk. These are great energy boosters and will get you through the long uphill grinds. Saying <g class="gr_ gr_87 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="87" data-gr-id="87">that,</g> there are a number of shops and bakeries along the major trekking routes that will supply you with plenty of snacking options if you wish. <h2 id="rubbish">Dealing With Rubbish</h2> Sadly, <g class="gr_ gr_94 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="94" data-gr-id="94">along</g> your <g class="gr_ gr_95 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="95" data-gr-id="95">trek</g> you’ll notice the lack of garbage management. Due to the rapid westernization of Nepal, the country hasn’t quite figured out a way to deal with all of the trash left by tourists – Please don’t add to this problem! Always keep your trash with you until you reach the nearest vehicle-accessible road. This includes drink bottles purchased at tea houses. This article was written by our partner <a href="https://www.kandooadventures.com/" target="_blank">Kandoo Adventures</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.mountainiq.com/guides/trekking-in-nepal/" target="_blank">Mountain IQ</a>.Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southern-asia/nepal/top-treks-in-nepalExpert in the field, Mark Whitman from Kandoo Adventures, shares his top five treks you must do in Nepal.2017-02-10T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southern-asia/nepal/top-treks-in-nepalhttps://www.worldnomads.comWith eight of the ten highest mountains on earth located in Nepal, it’s easy to see why this tiny mountain nation draws over one million <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/hiking-essentials-guide-for-nepal" title="What to Pack for Your Trip to Nepal">trekkers</a> to its borders each year.  Jagged peaks soar high into the sky as trekkers make their way through forests and deep valleys, crossing swaying bridges and wandering through small villages. With such an abundance of options, which trek is right for you? <ul> <li><a href="#everest-base-camp"> Everest Base Camp Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#gokyo-lakes"> Gokyo Lakes Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#annapurna"> Annapurna Circuit </a></li> <li><a href="#manaslu"> Manaslu Circuit </a></li> <li><a href="#langtang"> Langtang Valley Trek </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="everest-base-camp">Everest Base Camp Trek</h2> The Everest Base Camp Trek is by far the most popular trek in Nepal. The route receives over 30,00 hikers every year and takes approximately 12 days to complete. Trekkers walk along the stunning Khumbu Valley, taking in the authentic villages and monasteries on their way towards the tallest peak on earth. The view of Everest from Kala Pattar is one of the best views in the world and undoubtedly one of the best moments is getting up close to the infamous Khumbu Icefall. Check out <a href="https://ebctrekguide.com/" target="_blank">EBC Trek Guide</a> for more. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/nepal/top-treks-everest-base-camp.jpg" /> <figcaption> Everest Base Camp. Photo credit: Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="gokyo-lakes">Gokyo Lakes Trek</h2> The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a favorite among serious trekkers. If the classic Everest trail seems a little too tame, then the Gokyo Trek might just be for you. While the destination remains the same, the route deviates significantly. Trekkers are taken on a loop into the Gokyo valley where they visit the 5 holy lakes and ascend over Cho La Pass – one of the most stunning passes in all of Nepal. This route is far quieter than the classic route and takes on average 3 more days. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/nepal/top-treks-gokyo-lake.jpg" /><figcaption>Gokyo Lakes. Photo credit: Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="annapurna">Annapurna Circuit</h2> Often described as one of the greatest treks on earth, the Annapurna Circuit is an epic adventure over three long weeks. The trek is most notable for the sheer variety of scenery the route passes through. You begin in sub-tropical meadows before ascending up through rhododendron forests, alpine hills, and finally into semi-arid terrain. The highest point is at Thorung La Pass (5,416m), where you’re greeted with 360 degree vistas that will stay with you a lifetime. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/nepal/top-treks-annapurna-circuit.jpg" /><figcaption>Annapurna Circuit. Photo credit: Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="manaslu">Manaslu Circuit</h2> Relatively unknown, the Manaslu Circuit is far quieter than either the Annapurna or Everest regions. Although it receives less than 2,00 trekkers annually, the Manaslu Circuit is quite possibly the greatest trek in Nepal. The route winds its way up through 5 climatic zones and takes in 8 world-famous peaks! The highlight of this stunning trek is Larkya La pass, which, at over 5,000m, is one of the most dramatic passes in the Himalayas. Be warned though. This is a high-altitude trek which should only be attempted by experienced trekkers, with <a href="/travel-safety/how-to-deal-with-altitude-sickness" title="How to Deal with Altitude Sickness">altitude sickness</a> an important consideration. Set aside at least 2 weeks to complete the circuit. <h2 id="langtang">Langtang Valley Trek</h2> Described by travel writer Bill Tilman (1898-1977) as "one of the world's most beautiful valleys”, the Lantang Valley Trek has earned an exceptional reputation among trekkers. This is <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/easy-treks-to-do-in-nepal" target="_blank">one of the easiest treks</a> in Nepal and offers hikers the chance to see stunning mountain scenery without going too far. Accessible to adults and children, the Langtang Valley Trek offers an exceptional mix between scenery and cultural heritage. Located near Kathmandu, this trek is definitely <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/short-treks-in-nepal" target="_blank">worth a try if you’re short on time</a> or just starting out. This article was written by our partner <a href="https://www.kandooadventures.com/" target="_blank">Kandoo Adventures</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.mountainiq.com/guides/trekking-in-nepal/" target="_blank">Mountain IQ</a>.Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southern-asia/nepal/top-nepal-hikes-in-less-than-3-daysKandoo Adventures share three epic hikes anyone can do with limited time in Nepal.2017-01-30T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southern-asia/nepal/top-nepal-hikes-in-less-than-3-dayshttps://www.worldnomads.comEven if you’re just passing through or visiting for a long weekend, <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">trekking</a> in Nepal is an essential experience. Luckily, there are plenty of short trekking options that get you off the beaten path and into the very heart of the wilderness. Perfect for the travelers on the move. Here are the best hikes in Nepal that can be completed in less than three days. <ul> <li><a href="#kathmandu-valley"> Kathmandu Valley Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#ghandruk-trek"> Ghandruk Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#ghorepani-trek"> Ghorepani Trek </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="kathmandu-valley">Kathmandu Valley Trek</h2> Located just 40 miles from the capital, the Kathmandu valley trek is the perfect option if you’re just passing through the city. Don’t think you’re missing out on anything though – the valley trek offers stunning scenery, cultural heritage, and spectacular views – all rolled into just three days. You begin in the town of Sundarijal before trekking up into the hills. You pass through several traditional villages, taking in the terraced rice fields and lush forests. Once you arrive at Jhule village, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest. <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/accommodation-types-in-nepal" target="_blank">You stay overnight in the village of Nagarkot</a>, famous for its incredible sunrise views over the Himalayas. The trek ends at the stunning Changu Narayan temple - a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. The temple dates back to the 5th century AD and is considered to be the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley. <h2 id="ghandruk-trek">Ghandruk Trek</h2> One of the best short treks in Nepal, the Ghandruk Trek is a 3-day hike that leads you through stunning rice paddies, beautiful villages, and ancient stone stairs. The views along the trek are simply gorgeous, including the view towards Annapurna South. The trek is also ideal as it never ascends above 2,000 meters, making it less risky if you’re prone to <a href="/travel-safety/how-to-deal-with-altitude-sickness" target="_blank">altitude sickness</a> and perfect for the less-experienced hiker. The trail begins just an hour’s drive from Pokhara, the trekking capital of Nepal. Hikers make their way up dense forests of rhododendrons before coming upon a series of vegetable paddies on their way to the village of Ghandruk. The village is the highlight of the trek, with its bustling streets and cultural heritage. From here, you’ll get spectacular views of some of the giants of the Himalayas including Annapurna, Hiunchuli and Machapuchare. <h2 id="ghorepani-trek">Ghorepani Trek</h2> Probably Nepal’s most famous short hike, the Ghorepani Trek takes hikers to the picturesque village of Ghandruk via one of the most unforgettable views in the Himalayas - Poon Hill. The trek is considered fairly easy, however, there’s a steep climb section on day two that consists of 3,381 stone steps. Like the Ghandruk Trek, the Ghorepani Trek is located in the Annapurna region near Pokhara. Set off from Nayapul and ascend through lush forests of rhododendrons and rice paddies. The highlight of the trek is the view from Poon Hill (3,210m) where some of the world’s most famous peaks can be seen in one magnificent panorama. These include Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Annapurna South. Make sure you <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/landscape-photography-tips" target="_blank">bring your camera to capture this incredible view</a>! In the early morning light, this is often considered the best view in the Himalayas. This trek is the ideal option for travelers wanting to experience epic views without the long distances. It’s even family-friendly! This article was written by our partner <a href="https://www.kandooadventures.com/" target="_blank">Kandoo Adventures</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.mountainiq.com/guides/trekking-in-nepal/" target="_blank">Mountain IQ</a>.Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southern-asia/nepal/short-treks-in-nepalAre you new to trekking, and short on time in Nepal? Here are three treks you can do in five days or less.2017-02-03T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southern-asia/nepal/short-treks-in-nepalhttps://www.worldnomads.comThough small, Nepal is home to <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/top-treks-in-nepal" target="_blank">hundreds of stunning treks</a> that get you off the beaten path and into the glorious wilderness of the Himalayas. Many of these treks can actually be completed in under a week, making them <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/easy-treks-to-do-in-nepal" target="_blank">ideal options for less experienced trekkers</a>, or if you’re short on time. To help you decide, here are three of Nepal’s best short treks. <ul> <li><a href="#helambu-trek"> Helambu Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#jomsom-muktinath-trek"> Jomsom Muktinath Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#panchase-trek"> Panchase Trek </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="helambu-trek">Helambu Trek</h2> The Helmabu trek is ideal for families and travelers wanting a short, but beautiful trek that isn't too strenuous. Because of the trek’s low altitude and generally pleasant temperature, the Helambu trek has grown in popularity in recent years and is now one of the best short trek options in Nepal. Despite its accessible location near Kathmandu, the Helambu Trek is incredibly tranquil. You’ll get none of the crowds that swarm the more famous routes. The trek begins an hour from Kathmandu in the town of Sundarijal. From there, you trek up into the local hills past forests of rhododendrons, beautiful waterfalls and glorious, snow-capped peaks. Considering the low altitude of the trek, the views along the route are spectacular. The largest peaks on offer include Langtang at 23,734 feet (7,234m) and Ganesh at 24,429 feet (7,445m). The Helambu Trek is also one of the most <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/temples-and-cultural-must-sees-in-nepal" target="_blank">cultural treks in Nepal</a>. Hikers visit a number of traditional villages where people’s ways of life have changed little over the centuries. <h2 id="jomsom-muktinath-trek">Jomsom Muktinath Trek</h2> If you’re pushed for time, then the Jomsom Muktinath Trek can be completed in as little as 5 days. The Mustang region is one of the most stunning areas of Nepal and the Jomsom Muktinath Trek is actually part of the larger and far more famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. Along the route, you’ll witness eight of the world’s 20 tallest mountains including Machhapuchhare at 22,959 feet (6,997m), Annapurna I at 26,538 feet (8,088m) and Nilgiri at 23,097 feet (7,039m). The altitude is fairly low and inexperienced trekkers will find this an ideal entry-level trek. Just make sure you’ve <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/packing-for-a-trip-to-nepal" target="_blank">packed the right gear</a>. The route follows in the footsteps of the ancient trade route along the Kali Ghandaki river. You’ll visit ancient forts, large caves, and glorious monasteries. The region provides both lush forest and arid terrain with certain sections of landscape being likened to the moon! Up until 2008, the Mustang Region was a semi-autonomous Kingdom and much of the local heritage still flourishes, making the Jomsom Muktinath Trek a great cultural experience. <h2 id="panchase-trek">Panchase Trek</h2> One of the hidden gems of Nepal, the Panchase Trek is often looked over by travelers visiting the tiny mountain nation. With a relatively low altitude and only 4 days long, the Panchase trek is the perfect option for novice hikers <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/easy-treks-to-do-in-nepal" target="_blank">or families with children</a>. Located near Pokhara, the journey begins in style with a boat trip across the beautiful Phewa Lake and is <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/day-trips-from-pokhara" target="_blank">perfect for a short trip if you’re based in Pokhara</a>. Once on the forest trail, you’ll come across the World Peace Pagoda as you make your way down through the local villages where the rustic way of life still holds sway. Your final destination at Panchase Hill (8,202 feet or 2,500m) has absolutely epic views! Often considered the best view of Annapurna Massif in Nepal, you’ll be blown away by the glorious panorama. This article was written by our partner <a href="https://www.kandooadventures.com/" target="_blank">Kandoo Adventures</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.mountainiq.com/guides/trekking-in-nepal/" target="_blank">Mountain IQ</a>.Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southern-asia/nepal/easy-treks-to-do-in-nepalFor less experienced hikers and families with young children, Kandoo Adventures suggest some easier treks to do in Nepal.2017-02-07T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southern-asia/nepal/easy-treks-to-do-in-nepalhttps://www.worldnomads.comWhile Nepal is certainly famous for treks like the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp Trek, <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/top-treks-in-nepal" target="_blank">these are fairly long and grueling routes</a> that require a good level of stamina and fitness. But easier options also exist for less experienced hikers, and they will still expose you to the true spirit of the Himalayas. Here are some of the best treks in Nepal for beginners. <ul> <li><a href="#langtang"> Langtang Valley Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#royal-trek"> The Royal Trek </a></li> <li><a href="#poon-hill"> Poon Hill Trek </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="langtang">Langtang Valley Trek</h2> Famously described by travel writer Bill Tilman as “one of the world’s most beautiful valleys”, the Langtang Valley Trek is one of the easiest and most popular treks in Nepal. Located north of Kathmandu near the border with Tibet, the trek commonly takes 10-12 days, however, it can actually be completed in just one week. Set in a wild and remote landscape that is ever-changing, the Langtang Valley Trek takes hikers through deep gorges, farming pastures, semi-arid zones and sub-tropical forests. Trekkers are rewarded at the highest point with stunning views across the Langtang Himal range. From here, you can also see the colossal Langtang Lirung, which stands at 23,773 feet (7,246m). If you’re feeling up to it, then you’ll also have the option to summit Kyangjin Ri at 14,209 feet (4,330m). Needless to say, the views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. <h2 id="royal-trek">The Royal Trek</h2> The Royal Trek was named after Prince Charles and his 90-strong crew who explored the route in 1981. It was also historically used by Nepal’s royal family, adding to the namesake. The Royal Trek is the ideal, easy option for travelers wanting to have an ‘off the beaten path’ experience. Because it’s less well known compared to the other treks in the region, most of the time it’s practically empty. This hike takes you through terraced rice fields and lush forests, and you’ll be greeted constantly with epic views of the Annapurna Mountain Range. Beginning at the <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/southern-asia/nepal/day-trips-from-pokhara">lakeside city of Pokhara</a>, the route is well-maintained and trekkers stay at a relatively low altitude for the duration of the trek. This means that even the most inexperienced trekkers will be able to give it a go. The most popular route takes five days and covers 7.5 to 9.5mi (12 to 15km) a day. From the highest point, you’ll be able to see Machapuchhre (fishtail) and Langtang Mountain. The trek concludes when you arrive at the stunning Begnas Lake at the southeast end of the Pokhara valley, just in time for a nice drink! <h2 id="poon-hill">Poon Hill Trek</h2> Conducted over four to five days, the Poon Hill Trek in the Annapurna region is perfectly suited to beginners and families. Although one of the easier treks in Nepal, the Poon Hill Trek packs a major punch when it comes to views. The sunrise over the rugged Annapurna Himalaya range is thought to be one of the best in the world. The beauty and diversity of the scenery is the main draw factor of this trek. As you ascend into the hills, the scenery is constantly changing from lush forests to arid terrain, to farming fields. Lovely family-run teahouses are dotted along the route, so there’s no need to carry any camping gear. After a fairly steep climb to the top of Poon Hill at 10,531 feet (3,210m), you’ll be rewarded with one of the best mountain vistas on earth. Definitely worth it!  This article was written by our partner <a href="https://www.kandooadventures.com/" target="_blank">Kandoo Adventures</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.mountainiq.com/guides/trekking-in-nepal/" target="_blank">Mountain IQ</a>.Kandoo Adventures 0