HIGHLIGHTS: DESCRIPTION: The Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal is a trekker's dream world. The beauty of its mountains is legendary, its people among the most warmhearted, gentle and openly friendly. From the lush foothills stepped with immaculate terracing, to the stark upper regions of snow, ice and towering walls of rock, a series of landscapes impress all who wander through. If you choose to travel these trails, you need not fear disappointment. Traditionally known among both Khumbu Sherpas and Tibetans to the north as Chomolungma, 'Goddess Mother of the World', the mountain we call Everest is known as Sagarmatha by the people of Nepal. No matter what name it goes by it is easy to see why trekkers find this mountain a tempting lure. Nepal claims 8 of the 10 highest mountains in the world. Of these, three are Khumbu mountains (Everest, Lhotse and Cho Oyu), while a forth (Makalu) is seen from specific viewpoints on and above the trail. Trekking in Solu-Khumbu is more than a simple adoration of mountains, for there are other aspects of the region that will enhance the whole experience of travel there. Villages along the trail, for example, reflect a way of life long forgotten by the developed world. Men and women still work the land either with the aid of water buffalo, or simply by hand. Because there are no roads, there are also no wheeled vehicles and all goods must be transported on the backs of porters or by strings of ponies or yaks. Along the trail prayer flags, prayer wheels, mani walls, chortens and gold-topped gompas all symbolise a tranquility of spirit ignored by our industrialised society. Trekking through Solu-Khumbu provides an opportunity to build a relationship with people of a different culture, a vastly different background and different outlook on life. These people seem largely content, unencumbered by possesions and free from the drive of competition. The strong Buddhist faith of the Sherpas has manifested itself not only in the way they live but also in the landscapes in which they live; nature, environment and activity balanced by the pivot of this faith. We, as trekkers from a foreign culture, need to be aware of that balance and determine not to upset it. For many, trekking in Khumbu can become almost a spiritual experience, a communian with both nature and man. Mountains are fountains, not only of rivers and furtile soil, but of men. Therefore we are all, in some sense, mountaineers, and going to the mountains is like going home. - John Muir PPS has traveled to Nepal numerous times and we look forward to renewing our past connection with both the people and the land. We've added more days to the itinerary to allow for acclimatization, which is sure to enhance your journey and, after a trek filled with amazing people and awe inspiring vistas, we will return to Kathmandu and dine at the mansion of an old friend. Meets in Kathmandu, Nepal To Register - Call Now! Contact the PPS office at 585-346-5597! |
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A Nepalese Cultural
Trek to Everest Base Camp 281105 |