This is one of the classic and most
rewarding treks in Nepal. The southern slopes of Manaslu
and Annapurna ranges are heavily settled and farmed
except the higher regions, which support thick forests
of rhododendron and fir. Most of the tribes inhabiting
this area are Gurungs, Magars, Chettries and Newars. As
we turn westwards into the Manang Valley and into the
rain shadow of the Annapurna Ranges dramatic change
occur. There are small fields supporting some crops of
millet, wheat and small flocks of sheep and goats,
Manang tribes are traditionally a trading race. They are
also Tibetan by origin and Buddhist by region, and their
architecture and lifestyle is quite different to those
tribes on the southern slopes.
Thakali and Mustang tribes control the busy trading and
pilgrimage trail along the Kaligandaki, until we move
through the gap between Dhoulagiri and Annapurna into
the western zones, where we meet Gurung and Magars
again. On the whole trek, there is not one day during
which we do not have magnificent views of different
Himalayas. |