Thorang La Pass trekking
The Annapurna Circuit Trek first became accessible to the world of adventure travelers as recently as 1977, when the Nepalese Government derestricted the Manang valley, which had previously been closed on account of its proximity to the Tibetan border. Providing a combination of spectacular high mountain scenery, picturesque lowland farms and villages, a wealth of cultural interest and a challenging pass crossing, the Annapurna Round Trek is justifiably popular.
Mustang trekking saunters you to one of Nepal's most mysterious and least known former kingdoms. The landscape of Mustang is a barren moonscape of eroded sandstone pillars and discontinuous moraine terraces, which together present a colorful mosaic principally made up of earthen reds, yellows and browns. It is relatively easy trekking along the permitted route to Lo- Manthang, which lies in the very heart of Mustang. The trek to Mustang is through an almost treeless barren landscape. Strong winds generally howl across the area in the afternoon, generally subsiding at night. Being in the rain shadow of the Himalaya, Mustang has much less rain than in the rest of Nepal. Mustang is perhaps the last enclave of pristine Tibetan culture. Forbidden & isolated from the rest of the world, it was able to evolve its own distinctive culture and tradition, which are rich and unique. Lo-Mustang, the capital, is a walled city ruled by the religious king. Untouched by modern civilization, life in Mustang goes on as it has for centuries in unhurried pace.
The trek starts from the drive to Besisahar and to Chame, from where the trail follows the Marsyangdi River through the terraced fields and the stunning villages on the foothill of Annapurna and Manasalu Range. The rhododendron and Magnolia forest are sure to mesmerize any traveler with their beautiful colors, especially during the spring when they are in bloom. The magnificent view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range will accompany you throughout the walk.
Travelling from the Hindu-dominated farmland of Nepal's "middle hills", into the high alpine world on the north side of the Annapurna, which is the domain of Tibetan Buddhism, offers exposure to all the dimensions of trekking environment for which Nepal is famous for.
We can see the changing landscape and vegetation as we move further. The beautiful Mountain View from the Thorong pass (5416 m) is one of the highlights of the trek. From Thorong-La Pass the trail goes all the way down to Muktinath which is an important holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trail then goes to Ghorepani Poonhill which is famous for the exquisite sunrise view over the Himalayas. The trek ends at the village of Phedi. Now, we head for the tranquil city of Pokhara and the vibrant Kathmandu where you can give some relaxation to your mind and body through some Herbal Massage while retrospecting on the finest experience you have just had!
