The Himalayas are truly one of the most beautiful places on this planet. Breathtaking mountainous views, authentic culture, fantastic cuisine and some exhilarating hikes – you really will be blown away by this awe-inspiring country. However, visiting the Himalaya can be overwhelming as its quite a different from what most tourists are used to in the big cities. Yet, many tourists feel overwhelmed when visiting the Himalayas, as its unique geography confuses some people on how to explore it in the best way possible. The Himalayan experts at Shakti Himalaya have put together five top tips on how to make the most out of your Nepalese adventure.
1. Find the Right Accommodations
Depending on the kind of holiday you envision, the Himalayas offers accommodations to suit varied preferences, from private luxury lodges to wellness retreats to hiking-focused hotels, there’s something for everyone.
2. Decide What Level Hiker You Are
The Himalayas is home to the infamous Mount Everest, which at nearly 30,000 feet, is the highest peak on Earth. The area quite notably offers an array of guided hikes at varying levels, so it’s a good idea to plan just how challenging you want your experience to be beforehand.
3. Visit the Local Villages
No visit to the Himalayas would be complete without taking time to visit a local, authentic village, whether on your own or via guided tour. You will get a much deeper glimpse into the region’s culture and heritage, as well as get the chance to meet people who live much simpler than you’re probably accustomed to. Some tourist holiday tours offer a local village retreat and guided walk, followed by a luxurious mountain lodge stay.
4. Try Himalayan Cuisine
Authentic Himalayan cuisine is full of vibrant tastes and flavours; many dishes are rice based and infused with spices. Local favourites include momos, which are fried or steamed dumplings usually served with spicy dipping sauces, and thukpa, a hot noodle soup with meat and vegetables, and a must-have after long and grueling hike. Churpa, or hard dried yak cheese, and any Himalayan teas are also a must.
5. Visit the National Parks
There is an abundance of beautiful national parks in the Himalayas that are available to the public, so if you don’t fancy a strenuous hike that takes a few days, you can spend time exploring one of the parks instead. A few of the local favourites include the Valley of Flowers National Park, the Great Himalayan National Park and Khangchendzonga National Park.
Courtesy of Shakti
