June 2025 - Be On The Road | Live your Travel Dream!
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Thursday, June 26, 2025

Arunachal Pradesh’s Kaho: The First Village of India

Arunachal Pradesh's Kaho - the first village of India

This Himalayan village is called the ‘Easternmost model village of India’. Some people also refer to it as the ‘First Sunrise Point of India’. But, most commonly it is called the ‘First village of India’. It was declared as the first village of India by the current Indian government in November 2022. I am talking about Kaho, a small village located on the India – China border in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Orange tree full of fruit at Kaho, Arunachal Pradesh

If you draw a straight line down from Kaho on the global map, it will pass through Eastern Myanmar and Western Sumatra island in Indonesia. It is located far east of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. And if you draw the same straight line, but traveling northwards, you will cut through central China, Western Mongolia and Central Russia. That is how far east the village of Kaho is located. It also gives you an idea about India’s breadth from West to East.

Newly constructed Buddhist monastery at Kaho, Arunachal Pradesh

This village of Kaho is home to about 78 residents from 15 families belonging to the Meyor tribe who follow Buddhism. The costumes and culture of the people of Kaho is similar to that of the Monpas of Tawang, Membas of Mechuka and Tibetans. The Meyors are very hospitable and are extremely patriotic. An example of their patriotism is the 1962 Indo-China war when they helped the Indian army during the Chinese aggression. The village of Kaho is surrounded by snow capped mountains and is located by the banks of the swift Lohit river. It’s valley is known for cold winds and heavy rainfall. Agriculture, horticulture and animal husbandry is the main occupation of the villagers here, though some people manage basic shops to cater to the needs of the soldiers and officers of the Indian army and the minimal tourists who visit here.

Kaho - the easternmost model village of India

The village of Kaho is so small that you can finish walking its length and breadth in less than an hour. At one end is the newly renovated Buddhist monastery, the homestay, the home of the village head, a few shops, a restaurant and at the other end of the village is located a primary school and the checkpost that leads to the India- China border. In between, you can see farmland where they grow greens, tubers, peach, pears, kiwi fruit, oranges, cabbage, cauliflower and more. And surrounding all this land are mountain streams, pine forests and mighty snow capped mountains. For higher school, one needs to go to Kibithu. And for a health center, one needs to head to Walong. Thankfully, due a newly constructed hydroelectric project, they get fairly regular electricity supply.

The main entry arch of Kaho village, Arunachal pradesh

On a clear day, one can easily see the villages of China that are located on the other side of the river. In fact, these villages are located so close to each other that your phone will catch the time zone from China (which is 2 hours ahead) and sometimes even catch the network of the Chinese telecom operators. There is a telescope on top of the Kaho view point through which one could take a closer look at the Chinese villages, but this has been stopped for the time being.

The pine trees that surround Kaho

There is hardly much to see or do in Kaho, but it is the journey from Tezu to Kaho that makes up for the real experience. The winding mountain roads by the Lohit river with dense forests, umpteen waterfalls, traditional wooden suspension bridges, bailey bridges, picturesque landscapes, snow capped mountains, remote tribal villages, army camps and adventurous road sections make up for the overall thrilling experience.

A view of Kaho - the eastern most village of India

If you really like to explore and experience India, Kaho should definitely be on your travel bucket-list. This sleepy hamlet on the eastern most end of India and bordering China can offer you many unique experiences and sights. If you plan in advance, you can even trek these mountains and raft in the fast flowing Lohit river.

Things to keep in mind:

Kaho - the first village of India

1) You need an inner line permit to explore Arunachal Pradesh and all the districts that you are traveling including the Anjaw district must be clearly mentioned in your permit.

2) Mobile connectivity, including data connectivity can be patchy all through this region. Though when available, you can pay using UPI.

3) ATMs are few and far between. Do keep necessary cash in hand.

4) There are only a few petrol bunks from Tezu to Kaho. Do keep a note of all the locations and try to keep your tank full at all times.

5) Either travel by a 4WD vehicle or travel with a person who knows how to handle the slushy and slippery mountain terrain well.

6) Keep a first-aid kit and your medical supplies stocked at all times. The only options for a emergency are doctors in army camps and/or a health center in Walong.

7) Snacks and drinks of your choice might not be available at Kaho. Do buy them in advance at either Tezu or Hayuliang.

Best time to visit:

The spring months of March through May are the best months to visit Kaho. The weather is pleasant, the roads are in decent condition and the entire region is full of wildflowers. The post monsoon months from October to December are when the terrain is lush. Expect the temperatures to be a bit on the lower side and the roads to be in poorer condition post landslides and other monsoon disasters. January and February months will be bitter cold, but if you are prepared for the cold, you can enjoy a quiet holiday. The monsoon months from June through September are best avoided as this region receives copious rainfall and it is prone to landslides and floods.

How to reach there:

The nearest airport is Tezu airport, about 225 kms away, but the nearest airport with the best connectivity is Dibrugarh airport, about 378 kms away.

The nearest railway station with good connectivity is Dibrugarh railway station, about 378 kms away.

If you are driving from Tezu, the route would be Tezu –> Tidding –> Hayuliang –> Hawai –> Walong –> Kaho, totalling 225 kms.

Where to stay:

Pine cones on pine trees at Kaho, Arunachal Pradesh

Chochi homestay run by the head of the village is a decent place to stay in the heart of the village. The rooms are simple, cosy and warm. The rooms have access to hot water facility, though the geysers work only when electricity is available. Fresh and hot home cooked meals are available at this homestay.

There is one more homestay run by the head of the village. This property is basic and the bathrooms are shared.

Where to eat:

You can eat all your meals at the homestay where you are staying and for lunch, you can either eat at the only restaurant in the village or at any of other restaurants in the regions that you are visiting.

Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Hot water spring at Tilam village

2) Dong Valley: The place of the first sunrise in India

3) Kibithu: Another sleepy hamlet by the Indo-China border

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Wednesday, June 25, 2025

The Iconic Sign Boards and Slogans of BRO in Arunachal Pradesh: A Photo Series

This signboard can't capture the experience any better

The Border Roads Organization (BRO), a road construction and maintenance group, operating under the Ministry of Defence in India is the group that provides us the roads to reach India’s remotest corners and some of the most beautiful, yet inhospitable terrains. Their work is tough, yet they seem to carve roads out of mighty mountains and thick forests and allow our soldiers and their machines reach all the border areas. While I am really thankful to them for maintaining India’s border roads, I am absolutely fascinated by their road sign boards and slogans. People who have travelled to the high mountain roads of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir would know what I am talking about. Such iconic sign boards and slogans can be seen when you are traveling across the border regions of Arunachal Pradesh too. This photo series aims to share these famous road sign boards of Arunachal Pradesh with you. I believe these sign boards teach us a lot about road safety, how precious life is, life experiences in general and some that may be conveys BRO’s motto to us. These sign boards are so well thought through that I think BRO has a division just to come with newer slogan ideas.

Above photo: The mountain roads of Arunachal Pradesh, especially around the border areas are not everyone’s cup of tea. The unpredictable weather, the umpteen curves, the steep drops and the remote dense terrain offer a lot of challenges, but like the sign board which say ‘Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations’, the end result is insanely beautiful. Border areas of Arunachal Pradesh like Tawang, Mechuka, Lamang, Anini and Kaho are a sight to behold and are destinations that we should definitely experience. This sign board was spotted while traveling from Mechuka to Lamang.

Safety on road is safe tea at home

Above photo: Accidents are common place on mountain roads. Faster vehicles and lack of mountain driving experience increases the chances of accidents. And that is why we need such sign boards to remind us of how precious our lives are. This signboard which says ‘Safety on road is safe tea at home’ gently reminds us of our responsibility to ourselves and our families. This was spotted while climbing the winding roads towards Mayodia pass and Anini from Roing.

Run your own race - another interesting signboard from BRO

Above photo: A lot of us have a tendency to race on highways. This usually causes trouble and more so on narrow, winding mountain roads. This sign board which says ‘Run your own race’ tries to convey two meanings. One is not to race with others and the other is to focus on our goals and ambitions. This road sign board was spotted between Mechuka and Lamang.

Lamang - gorgeous location near India - Tibet border

Above photo: This is not exactly a road sign board, but more a slogan that says ‘Swach Bharat, Sundar Bharat’ or ‘Clean India, Beautiful India’. Spotted at the military outpost of Lamang, this slogan perfectly fits this surreal environment made up of snow capped peaks, fast mountain streams, pine forests and thin mountain air.

The Aalo - Mechuka highway

Above photo: A commonly seen message on the roads made by Border Roads Organization, it says ‘Be gentle on my curves’, which literally translates into ‘Drive safely on the winding and turning mountain roads’. I spotted this on the highway from Aalo to Mechuka.

Mountains are pleasure if you drive with leisure

Above photo: Himalayas is a destination one should definitely experience in their lifetime. Unlike the Western Himalayas, which is drier and colder, the Eastern Himalayas are more forested, green and receive much more rainfall. The best way to experience the Eastern Himalayas is by indulging in slow travel. And this sign board, which says ‘Mountains are pleasure if you drive with leisure couldn’t have conveyed the thought better. I spotted this sign board on the road from Aalo to Mechuka.

Another one of Arunachal's famous signboards

Above photo: This sign board is may be BRO’s vision. ‘Connecting Places Connecting People’ is pretty much what these roads do to these remote regions of the country. These roads allow us to reach the remote border regions of Arunachal Pradesh and get to know the life of the local tribal people living there, while it allows the locals to connect with the rest of the country for groceries, telecom, education, healthcare and much more. This sign was spotted on the road to Lamang from Mechuka.

The famous sign boards of Arunachal Pradesh

Above photo: Arunachal Pradesh is called the land of the rising sun (the sun rises the first here in all of India) and the land of the dawn lit mountains (as the sun rises here at 4 AM). This sign board at Aalo welcomes you to the border roads of Arunachal Pradesh.

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Saturday, June 14, 2025

Schengen Visa from India: Which Countries Have the Easiest Approval Rate?

Schengen Visa from India Which Countries Have the Easiest Approval Rate
Schengen Area countries are known for their diverse landscapes, breath taking views, rich culture, and captivating history. Indian travellers prefer exploring the hidden attractions of these countries, which increases the rate of Schengen visa applications to these regions.

However, the visa approval procedure is difficult for every nation in the Schengen area, which can delay or hamper your vacation plans. Thus, if you plan to visit the Schengen region, here are the 10 countries that offer easy visa applications for Indians.

Top 10 Countries that have Easiest Visa Approval Rates from India


Here are the 10 Schengen countries that provide hassle-free visa approvals to Indian applicants:

1. Iceland


This Nordic country tops the touring bucket list of most travel enthusiasts. Its breath taking landscape, dramatic Northern Lights, blue lagoons, natural geysers, live volcanoes, and other attractions attract tourists worldwide.

Iceland's visa rejection rate is 2.22%, which reflects an approximately 98% chance of visa approval.

Given below are some travel-specific details for tourists visiting this country:

Tourist Attractions: Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, Hallgrimskirkja Church, Vatnajökull Glacier.

Things to Do: Northern Lights watching, glacier hiking, volcano tours, whale watching in Husavik

2. Finland


Finland is also known as the Happiest Country in the World, as its spellbound beauty is sure to make your heart happy. In winter, it is covered with white snow everywhere, offering a unique look at nature.

Also, Finland's dense forests, tranquil lakes, and midnight sun attract tourists worldwide. This Schengen country has a visa rejection rate of 6.05%, improving the chances of approval by 94%.

Now, here’s what makes Finland a special place for travellers:

Tourist Attractions: Santa Claus Village (Rovaniemi), Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna Fortress, Lake Saimaa, Levi Ski Resort.

Things to Do: Husky safaris, ice fishing, sauna experiences, and stay in glass igloos.

3. Switzerland


Most couples desire a romantic honeymoon in Switzerland. The breath taking view of the Alps, beautiful Swiss villages, stunning valleys, and peaceful lakes make Switzerland a perfect destination for travel enthusiasts.

Its visa rejection rate is only 10.7%, which increases the chances of getting an easy approval.

Highlighted below are what makes this country so special for enthusiastic travellers:

Tourist Attractions: Matterhorn, Jungfrau Region, Lake Geneva, Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, Château de Chillon.

Things to Do: Scenic train rides (Glacier Express), skiing in Zermatt or St. Moritz, hiking in the Alps, chocolate tasting, cable car rides.

4. Latvia


This picturesque Baltic region is renowned for its rich history and culture, making it a must-visit Schengen country. Travellers can immerse themselves in the stunning natural landscapes and greenery while exploring Latvia's capital, Riga, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture.

You can wander through charming cobblestone streets, admire beautiful cathedrals, and relax in cosy cafes. With only an 11.7% visa rejection rate, this country offers tourists smooth and easy visa approval.

These features make the country a favourite among travel enthusiasts.

Tourist Attractions: Riga Old Town, Rundāle Palace, Gauja National Park, Jurmala Beach, Turaida Castle.

Things to Do: Explore Art Nouveau architecture, attend local festivals, cycle in nature parks, and visit Soviet bunkers.

5. Luxembourg


Luxembourg is one of the richest countries in the Schengen region, known for its luxurious lifestyle and ecstatic beauty. This country offers a blend of history and modernity, as you can explore the medieval towns of Echternach and Vianden. Besides, the hiking trails in the Mullerthal Region offer stunning natural beauty and greenery.

The visa rejection rate in Luxembourg is only 12.7%, ensuring smooth approval upon application.

Below are the reasons this country captures the hearts of travel lovers.

Tourist Attractions: Luxembourg City Old Quarters, Bock Casemates, Vianden Castle, Grand Ducal Palace.

Things to Do: Explore fairy tale castles, wine tasting in Moselle Valley, hiking in Mullerthal Trail.

6. Lithuania


Lithuania, a Baltic state with a friendly visa policy, boasts a high tourist approval rate, with only a 12.8% visa rejection rate. Its cultural richness is evident in the Baroque architecture of Vilnius and the scenic Curonian Spit. This hidden gem offers vibrant cities, medieval castles, and stunning natural landscapes that captivate visitors.

Exploring these sites allows travellers to appreciate Lithuania's rich history and diverse beauty.

Tourist Attractions: Vilnius Old Town, Trakai Castle, Hill of Crosses, Curonian Spit, Gediminas Tower.

Things to Do: Kayaking on the Neris River, exploring Soviet history, and visiting amber workshops.

7. Slovakia


Applying for a Schengen visa from India to Slovakia is appealing due to its efficient process and the warm hospitality of locals. Visa rejection rates in Slovakia are 12.9%, which improves approval chances. To secure approval, applicants must submit the required documents and attend an interview.

Once in Slovakia, visitors can enjoy:

Tourist Attractions: Bratislava Castle, Spiš Castle, High Tatras Mountains, Slovak Paradise National Park.

Things to Do: Hiking in national parks, skiing in winter resorts, exploring medieval towns, and cave spelunking.

8. Austria


Known for its scenic beauty, Austria offers an ecstatic view of the Alps from Salzburg and Innsbruck. It is one of the most captivating locations in Schengen that exhibits scenic beauty at its best. Austria has the best attractions for music lovers, with its City of Music, Vienna.

This Schengen country has a visa rejection rate of 14.3%. However, one can quickly get a visa by fulfilling the basic requirements, such as clearly stating the purpose of the visit and acquiring travel insurance.

Here’s why this place is a bucket-list destination for travel lovers.

Tourist Attractions: Schönbrunn Palace, Hallstatt, Salzburg’s Old Town, Vienna State Opera, Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Things to Do: Attend classical concerts, explore Christmas markets, alpine hiking, and cycling along the Danube.

9. Greece


Greece's stunning beauty is hard to resist. Although its visa rejection rate is 14.7%, obtaining a visa is easy with proper documentation. Visitors can indulge in Mediterranean cuisine and explore ancient ruins that reveal Greece's rich history.

The breath taking islands offer a perfect retreat to bask in the sun while enjoying comfort and beauty. There’s more:

Tourist Attractions: Acropolis of Athens, Santorini caldera, Delphi ruins, Meteora monasteries, Knossos Palace.

Things to Do: Island hopping (Cyclades, Ionian Islands), beach lounging, mythological tours, hiking Mount Olympus.

10. Portugal


Portugal welcomes you with beautiful beaches, historical monuments, and much more. You can explore this country's distinctive history and culture while walking down the roads of Lisbon and visiting the vineyards in Douro Valley.

The visa rejection rate in this country is 18.14%. They have an easy and smooth visa application process, increasing the approval rate.

Here’s why this place is a bucket-list destination for travel lovers.

Tourist Attractions: Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Douro Valley, Pena Palace (Sintra), Algarve beaches.

Things to Do: Fado music nights, surfing in Nazaré, tram rides in Lisbon, and wine tasting in Porto.

Top 5 Tips for a Successful Schengen Visa Application


To secure an easy visa approval, only a little preparation is required. Here are some of the tips for a successful visa approval:

Apply Early

You can start the application process at least two months before your planned date of departure. This will help avoid last-minute hiccups. If you have enough time, you can patiently wait for the visa.

Select the Right Destination

While filling out the application form, make sure you select the country. You can visit the country's embassy when applying for a visa to avoid this mistake.

Arrange All Necessary Documents

While applying for a visa, you should keep all the essential documents handy. The list includes a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months, flight reservation, accommodation proof, passport-size photo, and proof of financial status.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for every tourist visiting Schengen countries. It adds a layer of protection in an unknown land during situations like passport loss, flight cancellations, medical emergencies, etc.

Be Mindful

Don't make any mistakes while filling out the form. Incomplete information, missing documents, and even minor errors can lead to visa rejection.

Provide the Right Information

If the authorities find that you have provided false information, they will reject your visa application. So, it is better to avoid the hassle and maintain honesty while providing information.

Things to Consider While Applying for a Schengen Visa from India


Here are some of the factors that affect the Schengen visa approval process from India:

International Relations with the Country

India’s relationship with the Schengen country for which you want to apply for a visa is crucial as it actively influences the approval process.

Tourism Policies of the Country

If the country for which you are applying for a Schengen visa is focused on flourishing its tourism, it will have a seamless visa procedure. Easy approvals will attract more tourists, boosting the country’s tourism to new heights.

Economic Influence

Some Schengen countries promote tourism to strengthen their economy. If you are travelling to any such nation, the chances of visa approvals are high.

Now that you know which Schengen countries offer a seamless visa application process and have higher approval rates, you can plan your trip accordingly. However, while applying for a visa, always arrange documents like bank statements, travel insurance, etc., to secure a hassle-free approval.

Note: The image in this article is courtesy of brgfx on Freepik.

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Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Nepal for the Unconventional Traveler: Everest Base Camp and Manaslu Circuit Off the Mainstream Trail

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek, Nepal

Trekking in Nepal is often reduced to two words: Everest Base Camp. Yet for those drawn to authenticity, the Himalayas offer much more than a popular trail.

In this article, I’ll explore two routes that reveal the soul of Nepal: the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek and the lesser-known Manaslu Circuit Trek. Both challenge your body, but more importantly, they shift your perspective.

These aren’t tourist experiences. They are journeys—quiet, humbling, and, at times, beautifully uncomfortable.

What It Means to Travel Differently


Not every traveler wants luxury lodges and glossy itineraries. Some seek something else—a place to walk without performance, where encounters happen naturally and landscapes speak louder than itineraries.

Both Everest and Manaslu offer this, depending on how you approach them. The key is to slow down, stay curious, and respect the rhythm of the land.

Everest Base Camp Trek - Real Trails, Raw Views, Unfiltered Nepal

The Everest Base Camp Trek often draws crowds, and it’s easy to dismiss it as overdone. That would be a mistake. Done with care, this trek remains one of the most rewarding experiences in the Himalayas.

Starting from Lukla, you pass through Namche Bazaar, climb steadily to Tengboche Monastery, and eventually stand beneath the towering Khumbu Icefall. But it’s not about Everest itself. It’s about mornings with clear skies, soft-spoken guides who know the trail by heart, and the quiet pride of making it on foot.

Manaslu Circuit Trek: The Quiet Trail

Larke Pass during Manaslu Trek, Nepal

If Everest feels like a chorus, Manaslu is a solo instrument—simple, haunting, and powerful. The Manaslu Circuit Trek remains one of Nepal’s least disturbed routes. It winds through dense forests, stone villages, and across the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m).

You won’t find souvenir stalls or café bakeries here. Instead, you’ll walk alongside yaks, greet monks at hillside gompas, and feel the quiet presence of the mountains. It’s a different kind of reward—less celebratory, more meditative.

Culture in Layers: Sherpa and Tibetan Worlds


Both treks move through culturally rich areas, each distinct. On the Everest route, you’ll encounter Sherpa Buddhist culture—mani walls, spinning prayer wheels, and the deep-rooted reverence for the mountains.

In Manaslu, the air shifts. The villages carry a Tibetan influence, with stone houses, remote monasteries, and elders who speak a dialect passed down from across the border. This contrast isn’t just interesting—it’s immersive.

You’re not walking through scenery. You’re walking through worldviews.

Crowds and Quiet: Which Feeds You?


Everest offers connection. You’ll meet trekkers from around the globe, share tea in communal lodges, and hear a dozen languages at dinner.

Manaslu offers silence. Sometimes the only sound is the wind in the trees or the distant jingle of mule bells. There’s value in both.

If you crave solitude and reflection, Manaslu delivers. If you’re energized by people and shared effort, Everest won’t disappoint.

The Landscape’s Story


Everest
is immediate. From day one, the peaks rise like stone cathedrals. The higher you go, the more the terrain hardens—glaciers, ridgelines, ice.

Manaslu
unfolds slowly. It begins in lush lowlands and moves through alpine forests before revealing wide open valleys and barren, windswept passes.

If Everest is a visual climax, Manaslu is a slow build—one you feel in your body and memory.

Altitude and Acclimatization


Both treks reach altitudes over 5,000 meters. EBC tops out at 5,364m at base camp. Manaslu’s high point, Larkya La, sits slightly lower at 5,160m.

Manaslu ascends more gradually, which can help with acclimatization. Everest begins at a higher altitude in Lukla, so your first few days are critical. Both require patience. This isn’t a race—it’s a process of adaptation and awareness.

Permit Requirements: Know Before You Go


Everest Base Camp Trek
:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Fee

Manaslu Circuit Trek
:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

TIMS card

Note:
A Licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers are required if you plan to trek in the Manaslu region.

Manaslu’s additional permits and guide requirements may seem like a hassle. They protect the trail’s integrity and ensure local involvement.

Best Seasons for Both Treks


Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal. You’ll find clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable trail conditions.

Avoid monsoon (June–August)—landslides and poor visibility are common.

In winter (December–February), Manaslu’s pass may be closed due to snow, and high-altitude nights are bitterly cold on both routes.

Shoulder months—late November or early March—offer quiet trails with manageable weather, especially for EBC.

Accommodations: What to Expect


Everest
has range. From basic teahouses to upgraded lodges with hot showers and Wi-Fi (in some villages), it’s evolved to handle global trekkers.

Manaslu
is simpler. Teahouses are locally built, family-run, and often without modern amenities. Still, the welcome is sincere, and the food—dal bhat, momos, potatoes—is hearty.

What you lose in comfort, you gain in connection.

Trek Costs: Everest vs. Manaslu


Everest Base Camp (12–14 days)
:

· Group tour: $1,300–$1,800

· Independent (w/o guide): ~$900+

Manaslu Circuit (14–17 days)
:

Guided only: $1,300–$2,000 (permits, meals, transport, support)

EBC gives flexibility for solo trekkers. Manaslu’s higher cost includes necessary logistics—transport to trailhead, restricted permits, and professional guidance.

Safety and Support on the Trail


Everest
has more infrastructure: health posts, helicopter rescue options, and a larger network of guides and porters.

Manaslu
is remote. You’ll rarely see helicopters. Guides are essential—not just for safety, but for cultural access.

In both cases, travel insurance with high-altitude coverage is non-negotiable.

Environmental and Social Responsibility


Trekking should leave more behind than footprints. Choose local agencies that:

· Hire local staff at fair wages
· Minimize waste
· Educate trekkers on trail etiquette and culture
· Avoid plastic

Stay on trails. Respect customs—whether it’s removing your shoes in a monastery or listening more than speaking.

Which Trek Is Right for Traveller?

Feature Everest Base Camp Manaslu Circuit
Popularity High Low
Cultural Highlight Sherpa Buddhism Tibetan Influence
Infrastructure Developed Basic
Permit Process Simple Restricted, guide required
Trail Type Structured, busy Varied, remote
Ideal For First-time trekkers, bucket list Repeat trekkers, cultural depth

The best choice depends not on the trail, but on the type of experience you want to have.

Practical Trekking Advice
  • Train before your trek—especially cardio and hill walking
  • Test your boots beforehand to prevent blisters
  • Travel with a local operator for permits, logistics, and safety
  • Acclimatize properly: rest days are not optional
  • Bring layers: expect warm days and freezing nights

Also, pack light. The less you carry, the more freely you’ll walk.

So, who’s the winner?


It depends on what you're looking for. But if we judge by authenticity, cultural depth, and trail solitude, the Manaslu Circuit Trek edges ahead for travelers who value raw, immersive experiences.

On the other hand, if you're seeking dramatic landscapes, world-renowned routes, and a sense of achievement that resonates across continents, the Everest Base Camp Trek holds its ground as a timeless classic.

For first-time trekkers, Everest offers stronger infrastructure and broader accessibility.

For those returning to Nepal—or looking to escape the obvious—Manaslu may just be the trek they never knew they needed.

Whichever you choose, both routes represent what trekking in Nepal is truly about: connecting deeply with the land, its people, and a rhythm far removed from the ordinary.

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