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Gateway To Shangri-La

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Gateway To Shangri-La
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By Gaurav Aryal

Nepal conceals abundant travel and adventure prospects amid the blue mountains and snowy white peaks. The Annapurna Dhaulagiri Community Trail Trek is one of the newer trekking routes that take travellers to the Himalayan Shangri-La. It is a part of the Great Himalaya Trail. A seven to 10 days long trek to the southern flank of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri region offers the taste of Nepal that is away from Nepali image, tourists are usually known to.

The trail passing through the Magar communities definitely offers the panoramic views of the majestic mountains and pristine wilderness. In addition, it is also a route to experience the exotic culture and livelihoods of Magar people in the surrounding villages. Community lodges and home stay have not only offered tourists to get a peaceful rest but is also an opportunity to understand the local culture and life style. Trekking in this route is a destination for responsible tourism where the benefits directly go to the local people.

Tourism facilities have become an attractive source of income for local people. Nangi village, also known for the wireless project initiated by Ramon Magsaysay Award winner Mahabir Pun, is making a turnover of around Rs 1.4 million annually since the opening of trail. Community lodges are available at Banskharka, Nangi, Mohare, Dandakharka, Swanta and Khopra. Similarly, home stay is available at Tikot, Paudwar and Narchyang. Most of the stops in this route offer Wi-Fi Internet and telephone services.
The community and ecotourism trekking route is classified as moderately difficult one. Trekking begins from Galeshwor of Myagdi and stops at Tatopani at the bank of Kaligandaki River or those looking for more thrill can also chose to go to Khair Lake and Annapurna Base Camp.

Mohare (3320m) and Khopra (3660m), two highest points in the trail promise a panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range and are ideal for watching sunrise and sunset. The trail passing through the rhododendron forests would entice visitors during the spring season when these flowers bloom with full glory. Similarly, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri’s jaw dropping views never leave the traveller alone.The peak season for trekking in this route is from autumn to early winter and from early spring to summer. Although the spring condition may be mild in the lower hills but the highest points Mohare and Khopra may still be icy cold.

The trail was opened up with a purpose to enhance the local community’s life style with the support of UNDP Micro Enterprise Development Programme (UNDP-MEDEP), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN).


 

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Gateway To Shangri-La

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