Abundant Annapurnas

One of the most well known areas in Nepal is the ever-famous Annapurna region. This region is home to some of the world’s highest peaks, but also offers a variety of geographical differences sure to please every sort of traveller.

                The Annapurna region is named after the Hindu “Goddess of Plenty,” and rightly so as it is one of the most abundant agricultural hubs in Nepal. This region is not only abundant in agriculture, but in natural wonders, as well. The Annapurna region is home to 1,226 species of flowering plants, 102 mammals, 474 birds, 39 reptiles, & 22 amphibians. Here, you can also find the mighty Mt. Annapurna, which sits in the prestigious 8,000s Club at 8,091 m—coming in 10^th on the “World’s Highest” list. In addition, 13 peaks over 7,000 m. can be found, along with 16 more over 6,000 m. This region is also home to the world’s largest rhododendron forest, the world’s deepest gorge, and the world’s highest altitude lake. It’s no wonder this region is forever symbolized by the Goddess of Plenty.

More still, the Annapurna region is commonly known to be abundant in hospitality and culture. This region of Nepal is said to be the friendliest and most welcoming to foreigners and Nepalese alike. Here, the ethnic groups vary widely, which can give one a great, well-rounded, sense Nepali culture in all its variations. The Gurung and Magar people dominant the southern part of the region, while the Thakali, Manange, & Loba people dominate the northern part of the region. Gurungs and Magars are known for their bravery and military service both nationally and internationally. Most make their living from rice farming and sheep herding. Both ethnicities are similar to Tibetan and Burmese cultures. Gurungs are known for their love of music, while Magars are known for weaving, hunting, and fishing. Thakali people hail from Muktinath and have distinct Mongolian features, fair complexions, and narrow eyes. This group has made their style of the national meal, daal bhat, famous and readily available in almost all regions of Nepal.

                In this ever-abundant region of Nepal you can enjoy a number of treks such as Annapurna Panorma/Base Camp/Circuit, Mardi Himal, Dhaulagiri, and Pisang Peak. Come experience theabundance of the Annapurna beauty today!

Tibetan Borders Closed..again

      The world over knows that China’s presence in Tibet has been unwanted since the beginning. Tibetans are extremely proud people and hold true to their culture and customs. In 2008, there was a public outcry amongst native Tibetans about the Chinese occupancy in Tibet. Many people set themselves on fire in protest and took to rioting in the streets of Lhasa, Tibet’s capitol. This was quickly and easily put down by the Chinese government and the Tibetan border was closed to tourists for almost a year.

      Again, unrest is being shown in the region and since March 2011, a reported 30 people have set themselves on fire in protest of Chinese occupancy. Recently, in late May 2012, the Tibetan borders were again closed to foreign tourists. There is no word as to when the ban will be lifted. Many said this was due to the Saga Dawa festival, which celebrates the birth of Lord Buddha, and often draws many foreign Buddhist pilgrims to Tibet. But because of the growing unrest in Tibet, it is clear to see why China has again closed its borders to the outside world.

      Tibet is a truly beautiful country with equally beautiful people and customs. They have suffered immensely in the past and we at Trek Nepal aim to inform the people of the world of this beautiful place, so high on Earth, through our tours and excursions. We only hope and pray that the Chinese government will lift the ban so the people of Tibet can continue sharing their customs and lives with the rest of the world and thus, help bring an end to their seemingly endless suffering in the process.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Tibet at this time and we will inform the rest of you when its’ beautiful doors are once again open.

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