Trekking in Everest Region:

A brief introduction to the Everest region:

Everest region is the most popular trekking area in Nepal. It is east from Kathmandu covering the eastern half of Nepal, the Everest region offers a many trekking options from the well-developed trail to Everest base camp to treks in remote semi-wilderness areas. Solukhumbu, the home of the legendary Sherpas, in the northern part is encompassed in the Everest National Park, protecting the fragile environment of the alpine region and to the east is the Makalu-Barun National Park, a remote and wild stretch of mountain peaks and deep densely forested valleys. To the west is the Rolwaling valley, a well protected microcosm of cultures and ecology. The southern part Solu is much less traveled by tourist but very rewarding destination. Besides home os, Sherpa people and paradise of unparalleled highest mountain splendor, its native people, culture, glacial lakes rhododendron forest, native flora and fauna, traditional villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries make this region a spectacular destination.

Entry permit and fees:

Trekking permits are no more required to visit this area. An entry permit is required for access to Everest National Park. Sagarmatha National Park fee of USD 30 and TIMS card fee USD 10 for group trekkers( who join the agency) and USD 20 for individual trekkers ( trekking self) is charged and better to buy them in kathmandu. Trekking to the east of main Everest trail an addition permit is required to enter Makalu-Barun National Park.

Access:

Both air and road access is possible to the Everest region but by road, the only practical road ahead at this time is Jiri, about eight hour bus ride from Kathmandu. It is also possible to trek to the Everest region via the Arun valley where roads head is at Hille, a twenty hrs bus ride from the kathmandu. There is no tourist bus service available now but private vihecle could be used and would reduce the traveling time considerably but obviously at an extra cost. By air there are three options, the most convenient for Everest treks is Lukla, which is serviced by many daily flights from Kathmandu. Three days walk to the south, near the district headquarters, is Phaplu airstrip, which is serviced by daily flights. This is useful for treks in southern parts of the region or for Everest trekkers who want to gain extra acclimatization and see some of less developed part of the district and flying to Tumlingtar air port at the south-east part of the region.

People and culture:

The main ethnic group that visitors will encounter in the Everest region is the Sherpas. This is their heartland and their influence is to be seen everywhere from their traditional dress to their distinctive houses and village monasteries. There are also minorities of various other groups, notably Rai/Limbu and Tamang in the lower hills and the ubiquitous Bhramin and Chhetri farmers of the valleys.

Flora and fauna:

The flora and fauna to be seen here are quiet diverse as the region ranges in altitude. From cultivation region to riot of colors and dense stands of forest including pine, oak and the spectacular flowering rhododendrons and from domesticated famous animals-the yak to wildlife, mostly birds including the national bird of Nepal-the Impeyan Pheasant, or danfe, the ravens and crows of the middle hills and the coughs which soar to seemingly impossible heights in the mountains, mountain goats, musk deer or barking deer etc.

The trails and facilites:

The main trails to Everest base camp or the route to Gokyo valley then teahouse trekking is perfectly possible even starting from jiri. Lower part continently located teahouses although generally not of such a high standard as those to the north. Other trekking routes will almost certainly require the use of camping, necessary trekking staff and equipment.

Season:

The best seasons for trekking or mountaineering to this region are autumn (Sep-Nov) and spring (March-May) are obviously the most popular as the weather is crystal clear, mild and dry. Winter trek is possible but the chances of snow are higher and passes and some teahouses may be closed, particularly during late winter. The summer/monsoon period is generally unsuitable for trekking period, as the trails are slippery, leeches abundant and the mountain views are unpredictable. Flights are usually cancelled in these seasons so better keep some extra days.

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