Nepal is known as the Himalayan Kingdom since it is situated in the foot of the Himalayas. It is the region with the tallest mountains. The most famous is the tallest peak in the world, The Mount Everest. This magnificent peak is 8848m tall. There are many other peaks near the Everest which are more than 8000m tall. Once we reach around 4000m high, the trekkers may experience Altitude sickness or AMS (acute mountain sickness). The symptoms vary in different people Head ache, nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia are the most common problems faced by the climbers. In case of emergency, helicopters are available to take the patient back to Kathmandu. Always remember to take insurance while going to Nepal. There are many villages throughout the way but once you reach 4000m, there are only mountains. At 5000m there is just snow with not even a single grass growing anywhere. It takes half a day’s journey to cover the Khumbu which is the world’s highest glacier and then comes the final part of the trail to the Everest. There are also many other mammoth peaks next to Everest like Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pu Mori, Island Peak, Makalu and Cho Oyu.
Indian tourists planning to visit Nepal do not have to apply for a visa. Although we can book ourselves for the Everest trekking, it is easier if booked through trekking agency. Applying online during peak season may be difficult. Getting good accommodation and food too may not be easy. But if booked through the Agency, they will arrange the porters and a guide so that we can understand the culture of Nepalis. Fitness is very important for Everest trekking. We will have to climb around 10-15km on a single day. Always consult a doctor before the trekking and keep the necessary medicines handy. Climbing above 4000m needs a lot of care and attention. Get an idea what Cerebral Edema and pulmonary Edema are by reading books on the topic. Remember to get insured which must include helicopter rescue cover.
Trekking seasons The trekkers can climb Everest all throughout the year except the three months of June, July and August. The peak seasons are April-May and September-October. The temperature goes below minus 20 during December-January and February and hence it will be more difficult than the other seasons. But it has its advantages too. Not many people try trekking during these months. So, there is no rush and the whole base is cam and serene. It is also the best time to take pictures since there are no clouds and the place has soft light. April-May is the season when rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal blooms in abundance. The stunning view of these flowers everywhere is breath-taking.
