Trekking Nepal @ nationalgeographic.com

	After flying from Kathmandu to the town of Pokhara (trek map), we met up with our Sherpa support team of guides, cooks, and porters. Together, we traveled by bus to the trailhead, then hiked to the village of Bhumdi, the site of our first night’s camp. The forest along this leg of the trek—from Bhumdi to just beyond Chandrakot village—was green, lush, and buzzing with life. In contrast to Kathmandu, the fresh air was intoxicating.
		ON THE TRAIL The trail climbed steeply up a stone staircase—and kept right on climbing. Full Story>>
		THE ELUSIVE PEAKS Unable to see the mountains, I shifted my focus to the surrounding forest. Full Story>>
		SHERPA TEA, SISTER? Our porters—with 80 pounds (36 kilograms) of cooking equipment on their backs—scurried past us wearing only flip-flops on their feet. Full Story>> Video>>
Kathmandu \| Bhumdi \| Ghandruk \| Landruk \| Puranchaur © 2001 National Geographic Society. All rights reserved.

Schoolgirl in Bhaduri village

TRAVEL TIPS: On The Trail

One of the best ways to physically prepare for a trek is to climb stairs before you leave home.
Avoid bringing new hiking boots unless you have time to break them in beforehand.
Pace yourself. Slowing down to between one-half and two-thirds your normal hiking speed will allow you to cover long distances without becoming overtired.
Don’t bring cotton clothing for the trail. Fabrics made of synthetic fibers that wick perspiration away from your body are best.
Drink only purified water, and always wash your hands before eating. Bring antibacterial hand cleaner—soap and water are not always available.