For many their
journey to Nepal would not be complete
without a glimpse of the highest mountain
on Earth. For some it will be enough
to view Everest from the Kathmandu valley
rim on a clear day, it is also possible
to sit in the comfort of a plane seat
for the experience. Others however settle
only for a more intimate meeting with
the last earthly rung on the stairway
to the heavens. Everest area is the most
popular trekking region in Nepal.
The Everest Region is within Sagamartha
National Park established in 1976 it lies
some 120 kms North East of Kathmandu and
covers an area of 1,148 sq. kms of the
Himalayan ecological zone U.N.E.S.C.O.
listed the Park as a World Heritage Site
in 1979. The park includes the upper catchments
areas of the Dudh Kosi and Bhote Kosi
Rivers. The park is largely composed of
rugged terrain and deep gorges within
an elevation of 2845m at Monju to the
top of the world, Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest)
at 8,848m above sea level. Other peaks
above 6,000m are Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, Thamserku,
Nuptse, Amadablam, and Pumori.
The vegetation at lower levels is dominated
by silver fir, birch, rhododendron and
juniper trees, at around 4500m the forest
gives way to Juniper and rhododendron
scrub. The park contains a variety of
mammals, Himalayan thar, musk deer, the
Himalayan red panda and the Himalayan
black bear are all native to the park.
The famed Sherpa people, whose lives
are interwoven with the teachings of Buddhism,
live in the region. The renowned Tengboche
and other monasteries are common gathering
places to celebrate religious festivals
such as Dumje and Mane Rumdu. In addition
to Tengboche, Thame, Khumjung and Pangboche
are some other famous monasteries.
The trek from Namche to Kala Pathar
is very popular. The Gokyo Lake and Chukung
valleys also provide spectacular views.
The Thame Valley is popular for Sherpa
culture while Phortse is famous for wildlife
viewing. There are some high passes worth
crossing over. However, the trekkers must
have a guide and proper equipment for
the trek.
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