Climbing

Peak climbing or mountaineering simply means 'the sport or activity of climbing mountains. To go to peak climbing or a mountaineering expedition means getting close to the Himalayas & experiencing its atmosphere. Peak climbing can be considered as an exercise that involves supporting your body on your hands and toes, bringing each knee up to your chest and back again one at a time, getting faster and faster.

Peak climbing in Nepal

Nepal is a country of the Himalayas with numerous peaks and pinnacles. Towering peaks are the results of tectonic movement, the action of gravity, and erosion. The transition from flat to mountainous terrain is gradual. Mountains, hills, plateaus, basins, valleys, and plains/Terai of various altitudes and magnitude make up the majority of the terrain.

From from the Kali River east to the Tista River, Nepal features several of the world’s highest peaks: Everest (29,035 feet [8,850 metres]), Kanchenjunga (28,169 feet [8,586 metres]), Makalu (27,766 feet [8,463 metres]), Dhaulagiri I (26,795 feet [8,167 metres]), Manaslu I (26,781 feet [8,163 metres]), and Annapurna I (26,545 feet [8,091 metres]).

These permanently snow-covered mountains overlook huge glaciers, often known as nature's water towers because they provide fresh water. About half of the world's population is reliant on mountain resources, particularly water (Sharma, Molden, Rahman, Khatiwada, Zhang, Singh, Yao, & Wester, 2019). Its scenic beauty and adventurous attractions draw tourists and mountaineers from all over the world (Howard, 2016). Peak climbing is mountain-based adventure tourism, according to Pomfret and Hales (quoted by Musa, James, and Anna, 2015). It has a huge following all around the world. Many people visit the high water towers (Himalayan water reservoirs) for cultural reasons. At the summit, mountaineers fervently give prayers and prayer flags. Mountains are regarded as sacred areas of the divine presence in Buddhism and Hinduism.

Climbing Peaks Of Nepal

Besides Mt. Everest there are other 7 peaks above 8000 meters in Nepal.

Top 10 Trekking Peaks in Nepal (List)

Why not switch your interest from Eight-Thousander to Six-Thousander? Well,  Trekking Peaks are easier to climb compared to other taller mountains, while offering a similar adrenaline rush, fatigue and cold gust of mountain air on your face!!

Trekking Peaks in Nepal is a specific permit classification given by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). It is the most affordable permit, however it is only granted to peaks that are between 5,800 and 6476 meters above sea level.

1. Mera Peak (6,476m/ 21,247ft)
2. Island Peak or Imja Tse (6,189m/ 20,305ft.)
3. Lobuche Peak (6,119m/ 20,070 ft.)
4. Pharchamo Peak (6,187m/ 20,298ft.)
5. Kyajo Ri (6,186m/ 20,295ft)
6. Yala Peak (5,700m/ 18,700 ft.)
7. Pisang Peak (6,091m/ 19,978ft.)
8. Chulu West (6,419m/ 21,055ft.)
9. Dhampus Peak (6,012m/ 19,719ft.)
10. Tent Peak (5,663m/ 18,575ft.)

When Should you go peak climbing?

Ideal seasons for peak climbing in Nepal are Pre-monsoon (March to June)and Post-monsoon (September to November). The post-monsoon season tends to be somewhat crowded, however, the best weather is guaranteed. Unfavourable weather can be detrimental

Benefits of Peak climbing

• Undertaking peak climbing activity trains your lungs to become stronger
• You will figure out a lot about your diet while exercising in nature
• The quote " the best view comes after the hardest climb" fits right with peak climbing. It's 100% guaranteed that you will get the best view only a few people get to see. 
• Meet the most amazing people who you can call friends. Mountaineers or climbers are probably the best breeds of people. You will find the positive, determined, strong, confident & mostly happy.
• Mountains make us feel so small. Your problems in life may dissolve when you are around peaks & you feel the urge to come back " mountains are calling & you must go". They call you even if you don't climb them.
• “Not to look at the whole mountain, take it one piece at a time” is something you will come to understand. You will learn to never give up. Climbing peaks will teach you patience, persistence and gratitude.
• On seeing untouched places like such, you will want to protect them. Scaling for mountain peaks will teach you why it is important to safeguard the environment.
• Peak climbing will teach you to appreciate tiny pleasures in life. You will realize the importance of one meal while scaling up and reaching the summit

Top Tips for Peak climbing

• Prepare at least 6 months before the climb 
• Gather yourself & gain some experience walking on high altitude
• Pick the best season: Pre-monsoon (March to June)and Post-monsoon (September to November).
• Travel on a flexible itinerary helps a lot in case of emergencies
• Get right clothing, gear & equipment
• Get comfortable with setting up tents
• Always travel with an experienced climbing guide & follow instructions
• Attend a climbing course provided by a climbing guide
• Slow & steady wins the race, don't put pressure on yourself.