Publisher's Synopsis
The vast area of West Nepal holds the final secrets of the Himalaya. Unspoilt forests, isolated villages, inaccessible canyons and sublime spires remain almost untouched by the 21st century. Hidden in the middle hills and lowlands are some of the most spectacular areas for wildlife - Bardiya, Khaptad and Suklaphanta. Cultural interest is kept alive by a series of almost uncharted historic remains - ancient virtually-lost Hindu temples and overgrown Buddhist shrines that would be more at home at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.Currently the Limi Valley route, the Saipal Base Camp treks, Api Base Camp and the Rara Lake to Mugu trail are the four most popular trekking trails. In addition, a few trekkers are following the newly designated Great Himalaya Trail across the West Nepal Himalaya. Virtually no normal lodges are available in the whole region, although some are being built and others will eventually be acceptable. For many treks it's back to the camping option for the time being. That, in fact, is part of the joy of exploring most of West Nepal; it's remote, untouched and truly wild. Who could ask for more?The aim of this new trekking guide to the West Nepal Himalayan region is to introduce the different treks and mountain areas. It does not endeavour to give every intricate detail about all the hikes; the region is too vast.
