Carneddau Triathlon

Trekking in Nepal remains a lifelong dream for many adventurers all over the globe. Roughly one-third of the Himalayas are enclosed within the borders of this small country, and eight out of the tallest ten peaks in the world are among those mountains. Hikers may enjoy either self-guided treks along well-serviced routes or guided treks through some of the country's most remote areas.

The Annapurna Circuit is Nepal's most traveled path. Tehar, at 3,000 feet, is the starting point for the trek, which winds up the Marsyangdi River and through the Thorung La pass at an elevation of 17,700 feet. After hiking through the desolate pass, trekkers travel through the world's deepest gorge, which is carved by the Kali Gandaki River.

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is another self-guided path. Starting in Pokhara, this 10-day hike goes to the turnaround point at the Annapurna base camp and then back to the village. The path is a little treacherous after snowfall or rain, but the base camp is worth navigating the hazards. The camp nestles in the South Annapurna Glacier and is surrounded by 21,000-foot peaks on virtually every side.

Some areas are only accessible by booking treks with an outfitter. Outsiders have just now been welcomed in the Dolpo and Mustang regions, for instance, and all tours in that area must be guided. On the route, trekkers will see yaks carrying loads and villages bearing flags in the five essential colors of Buddhism. The area is important to Tibetan Buddhists, and tourists will see many functioning temples along the path.

Some people may feel that a trip to Nepal, without a trip to Everest, is incomplete. The Nepalese people call Everest "Sagarmatha." The mountain rests in the Khumbu region near Lhotse and Cho Oyu, which are the fourth and eighth largest peaks in the world, respectively. To avoid the crowds at the Everest base camp, serious trekkers should consider heading north to Gokyo. On the Gokyo route, visitors will see the Ngozumba Glacier and the multiple services available for self-guided tourists along the Dudh Kosi valley.

For a relaxing day trip, trekkers can head out to Phewa Tal. Reflected in this lake, which is the second largest in Nepal, are stunning vistas of the Annapurna Mountains. Many visitors row over the lake before walking or biking its perimeter. For more spectacular views of the lake and the Annapurnas, tourists can take a trek to and tour the World Peace Pagoda.

For hikers looking for a change of pace, thrilling and unique views of the Himalayas are offered by Sunrise Paragliding. The company takes tourists on 30-minute flights over the Sarangkot thermals and on one-hour flights through the Annapurna Mountains. To earn their proficiency card from the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, tourists can choose either 5-day or 4-day courses.

Experts recommend getting plenty of aerobic exercise in preparation for a trek, because tourists will be breathing in air that is 40 percent thinner than the air at sea level. Experts also recommend hiking in hilly areas with a pack rather than just trying to build leg muscles in the gym. With some good conditioning and mental preparation, visitors will find that trekking in Nepal to be one of life's most rewarding experiences.