What's happened
Adventurers are increasingly drawn to the remote trekking routes of the Himalayas and Karakoram, such as K2 and Mohare Danda. These paths offer a stark contrast to the crowded Everest trails, providing unique experiences and opportunities for sustainable tourism. The impact of climate change is also evident in these regions, affecting both the environment and local communities.
Why it matters
What the papers say
In an article by Simon Calder in The Independent, he reflects on the joys and challenges of trekking in Nepal, stating, 'I already miss the high life: hiking the Great Himalayan Trail.' This sentiment captures the allure of these remote paths. Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post highlights the beauty of the Mohare Danda trek, emphasizing its potential for sustainable tourism, as local women benefit from homestays. The Independent also discusses the challenges posed by climate change, with guide Bashir noting, 'Now it’s so fast and furious because of global warming.' This illustrates the urgent need for responsible tourism practices in these fragile environments.
How we got here
The rise in popularity of trekking in the Himalayas and Karakoram has been fueled by a desire for less commercialized experiences compared to Everest. Recent climate changes have made some routes more challenging, highlighting the need for sustainable tourism practices.
More on these topics
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Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a country in South Asia. It is mainly in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It is the 49th largest country by population and 93rd largest country by area.
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Mount Everest is Earth's highest mountain above sea level, located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas. The China–Nepal border runs across its summit point.