Overview of Mesokanto Pass Trek
After arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, you’ll be picked up by our team and transferred to the finest hotel. You’ll begin your trekking journey after you’ve visited numerous heritage sites of Kathmandu. Visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bouddha, and Pashupatinath temple is entertaining as you’ll be discovering ancient architecture and traditional customs of the region.
Then, we’ll begin our trekking journey with a drive-through, leaving Kathmandu Valley along high hills and gushing waterfalls alongside the Trishuli River. Along the way, you’ll get to see distinct wild species, considering your luck and observation of local settlements. After crossing Tanahun district, we head towards Besisahar, the capital of Lamjung district. You’ll encounter the soaring Marshyangdi River on the way and occasional glimpses of high mountains on a clear day.
The real trek begins the day after your night stay at Syanje Village. After your early morning breakfast, we walk along the trails and local villages, heading for Jagat Village. Soon, you’ll be crossing over the Marsyangdi River through a high-suspension bridge. The journey fills you with stirring activities and maintains your riveting journey from the beginning. We then head for Dharapani for our night, and on the way to Dharapani, you’ll be catching magical glimpses of the Annapurna range. (Dharapani is the midpoint connecting the Annapurna Circuit Trail and Manaslu Circuit Trail).
Our journey resumes the next day through rhododendron and alpine forests. You’ll be continuing alongside the Marsyangdi River and numerous village settlements. Before reaching Chame village for our night, one of our stops at Timang village shall give you insights into Buddhist practices and their local culture.
The next day is exceptional as you’ll be relishing the breathtaking landscapes and glimpses of the high Himalayas. As you gain altitude, you’ll have a sensation of approaching mountains closer than before. On our Mesokanto Pass Trek, you’ll be staying for a day at Manang for acclimatization along with experiencing local buddhist culture. Manang is rich in natural beauty and has a blend of cultures. There are museums present in the area where you can visit and gain an understanding of ancient traditions and customs.
Our journey continues with leaving Manang and proceeding towards Tilicho Base Camp. This day is remarkable as you’ll be enjoying the beauty of Lake Tilicho, giving rise to peace and tranquility within yourself.
The following day, we shall camp in the lap of mountains at the foot of Lake Tilicho under a bright full of shining stars. This day offers magical views, and trekking along rocky trails while cleaving your consciousness between the majestic mountains and the walking trails will be a stunning experience.
The day after, we head towards Mesokanto La Pass (5,330m), the highest point of our trek. We delve into unimaginable and astonishing sights, click some pictures, and with holding onto the memories we descend to Jomsom for the night. As our trek leans towards the end, the next day, you’ll be catching a flight to Pokhara, leaving the place and carrying a remarkable experience to cherish.
Why Mesokanto Pass?
When it comes to thinking of trekking, many people’s prior picks are Everest Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, and Annapurna Circuit Trek. While each region has its own importance and sustains undeniable beauty, Mesokanto Pass Trek offers you more than that. Besides just long days of mountain trek, this trek holds special moments with many fun activities to do. This provides you with chapters of experiences, cultural and rural insights, Himalayan lifestyle, and thrilling and chilled moments while driving you to the edge of Tilicho Lake.
Mesmerizing View
Mesokanto Pass is rich in its own components. The place is magical, with stunning views of landscapes and magical glimpses of mountain ranges, while at the same time, the journey takes you through thrilling activities. Dividing attention between the majestic Annapurna range and scenic landscapes while walking sightseeing rugged trails and steep ridges invites thrill and fills your heart with warmth.
Besides the spectacular view of Lake Tilicho, camping night under the full night of stars beside Lake Tilicho is an outstanding time-elapsing experience. Your trek continues further and takes you to the Mesokanto Pass. This lets you have a magical panoramic view of the Annapurna range.
This trek maintains your vitality from the start of your journey. From leaving Kathmandu Valley, you pass through a series of forests, scenic hills, and lavishing waterfalls. As the trek continues towards Lamjung district, you get to go alongside the soaring Marshyangdi river. As you elevate uphill, you feel a close connection with nature itself and instill insights into the Himalayan lifestyle and traditional way of living. Depriving of city facilities and breathing in the presence of cold breeze and whipping wind lets you feel the blessing of nature.
Cultural Importance
The high Himalayan region holds its own culture and customs. They are rich with traditions and celebrate cheerfully. This trek to Mesokanto Pass takes you to regions of remote areas and charming villages. As you ascend higher, you will be astonished by the beauty of Manang village. Here, the fusion of Tibetan and Nepali cultures creates a unique atmosphere. People in upper Manang are mainly Buddhist and consist of many monasteries. You can delve into Buddhist spiritual practices and enlighten spirituality. Visiting many monasteries and engaging in local customs gives you insights into cultural variation.
People in the high Himalayan region are warm-hearted and kind. They never hesitate in presenting you with their local cultures like music and dances and always treat you with warm hospitality. There is presence of local museum in manang that represents buddhism. It has been constructed in traditional manner and shares Nyeshang culture and traditions. The local community and Gurungs will serve you with traditional practices and delectable cuisines.
Distinct Flora and Fauna
Since the starting of your trek, you’ll get to observe different plant and wild species. While the Himalayan region of Mesokanto Pass Trek is rich in cultures and customs, this never fails in its distinct ecology. As the trek begins, the trails follow through rhododendron and alpine forests. Local farm villages hold a series of plant species with striking views of lush forests.
As you ascend in altitude, you’ll get to see apple farms and try local, freshly homegrown apples. Furthermore, this trek has occupied lots of glimpses of wild animals. Glimpses of diverse wild species like Musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, Eagles, Vultures, and many more can be seen along the way. If lucky, you might even encounter a snow leopard.
Festive Atmosphere
While this trek takes you to Mesokanto Pass through a progression of scenic sights along with experiencing local customs, this trek can be enhanced by double during the festive atmosphere. Planning your trek accordingly lets you relish the natural beauty of the Himalayas while immersing in local festivals. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Mani Rimdu fall in the autumn season, while Tola Lhosar and Sonam Lhosar fall in December/January.
Each community has its own traditional practices and celebrates its festivals uniquely. This gives you insights into cultural variation among different communities. Though festivals and cultural practices may vary, their liveliness and enthusiasm are indistinguishable. The festive atmosphere serves you with a blend of customs along with delicious cuisines.
When’s the best time for the Mesokanto Pass Trek?
The spectacular beauty of the high Himalayas pertains throughout the year with no difference in time. While the magical glimpses sustain, planning a trek at the right time shall magnify the trekking experience by two or three. The best time for you to plan your trek to Mesokanto Pass is during Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to November).
During this time, you’ll have a safe and smooth trekking experience without any fluctuations in weather. With good climatic conditions, you shall be able to relish the beauty of mountains and gaze upon the shining peaks reflecting sunlight through their surface. With less chance of rainfall, snowfall, and storms, you’ll enjoy the greenery of the surroundings with visuals of stunning landscapes.
On top of that, planning your trip during autumn refines your journey with cultural blessing. The main festivals of Nepal, like Dashain, Tihar, Mani Rimdu, and Chhath Puja, are celebrated during this time, fabricating a festive atmosphere. The villages will be shining through local lights during the night, and vibrant autumn colors during the day shall keep you amused. Locals shall welcome you warm-heartedly and unify you to the local customs like traditional music and dances. Immersing yourself in diverse Nepali cultures and trying different delectable foods shall quench your hunger and fill your heart to the fullest.
Packing for Mesokanto Pass
When it comes to go for a trek to Himalayan region, you must not rush and take your time to pack essential items. Your packing is what defines how good and smooth your trekking will be. So it is best to make sure buy large space trekking backpack to store necessary items for your trek. It is also advisable to be mindful of the climatic conditions of Himalayan areas and pack accordingly.
Travel Documents
Travel documents are must brought before heading for any long trek. Be mindful of bringing these documents along with you if you are planning on trekking to Mesokanto Pass.
- Passport
- 3-4 Passport size photos
- Travel Insurance
- Valid Visa of Nepal
Clothing
Taking account of the temperature of the Himalayan region, it is necessary to pack your clothes to deal with any weather fluctuations. Even if you’re planning your trek during spring or autumn, it is certain that you shall pack for uncertain climatic conditions and don’t miss any clothing items. By making sure you pack the right clothing, you shall have a pleasing trekking to the lap of mountains.
Here are the lists of clothing items you should look at
Upper body
Lower body
Comfortable pants
- Pairs of Half pants
- Pairs of thermal inner trousers
- Pairs of hiking pants
- Half pants
Inner body
Pairs of underwear
- Soft cotton vests
- Sports bra for female
Handwear
Footwear
Headwear
Personal hygiene and Toiletries
Personal hygiene is an essential part of our day-to-day life. Trekking to the beautiful Himalayan region is fun, but it is advisable to be mindful of the remoteness and lack of facilities in the upper region. Therefore, bringing your personal items or toiletries along with you is an ideal option to consider. On top of that, they won’t take up much space in your packing bag
Here are some of the list of personal hygiene items you should bring along:
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Razor and Shaving cream
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Deodorant
- Sanitizer
- Small mirror
- Female hygiene products
- Personal towel
- Nail clippers
- Toilet roll or Tissues
- Body wash
- Face wash
- Moisturiser
First-Aid
You don’t want your trek to the mountain chains to be deferred or interfered through any injuries or sickness. Therefore, it is best to carry along first aid box along with you to prepare for any sudden accidents, minor sickness or injuries. Being mindful of the lack of facilities in the Mesokanto Pass is advisable, and pack accordingly
Here are the lists of first aid items you should carry along with you as preventive measures for your spending days in the Himalayan region:
- Diamox incase of altitude sickness
- Paracetamol
- Antiseptic cream
- Antibiotics
- Tweezers
- Antihistamine for allergic reactions
- Anti-diarrhea medicine
- Bandages
- Ibuprofen
- Oral rehydration tablets
- Thermometer
- Water purifying pills
**Note: For any who are under medical surveillance, it is advised to seek medical guidance and doctor’s counseling before heading for the trek**
Additional Items
Bringing these items is ultimately your personal preference. These may not take up much space in your backpack and also comes in handy.
- Adjustable trekking poles
- Pen and notebook
- Camera with extra batteries
- Powerbank
- Water bottle
- Snacks and energy drinks
- Sleeping bag
- Headlamp
- Novels (for reading during tea break)
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Challenges during Mesokanto Pass Trek
The rewarding experience of the trek to Mesokanto Pass also comes with some challenges. These challenges may hinder the trekking journey. Therefore, it is important to consider these challenges and be prepared with alternative counter beforehand.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a major challenge during trekking towards high altitude. Altitude sickness is a major issue during Himalayan trekking, and this can range from mild to extreme. Altitude Sickness is caused by the change in atmospheric pressure and reduced amount of oxygen at high altitudes. Altitude sickness can be severe if not listened to the body with symptoms like headache, nausea, difficulty in breathing and dizziness. Therefore, it is important to hike in a slow-paced way, giving the body enough time to adapt while also enjoying the beauty of the Himalayas. Also, staying hydrated and carrying Diamox (Medicine for altitude sickness) can help you have a safe trek.
Difficult trekking routes
The Himalayan routes involve rocky trails, lushed forests, steep ascents, narrow trails, and landslide-prone areas. This can be challenging if not given careful observation. It is important to maintain a walking pace and walk in groups. Also, trekking with an experienced guide will help identify difficult areas. This ultimately boosts your safety and ensures you have a safe and thrilling adventure.
Fluctuations in weather
The weather in the Himalayan region is uncertain. With sudden fluctuations in weather, this presents challenges like rainfall, snowfall, landslides, reduced visibility, and flood. Even if you are planning on spring or autumn season, its best to stay with preventive measures. Packing winter clothes to deal with cold temperatures, carrying a flashlight and waterproof jackets, and staying with your groups is helpful ways to deal with it.
Be mindful of rainfall, slippery and muddy roads, and insects. Also, carry along insect repellant cream to avoid approaching blood-sucking leeches. It is important to monitor daily weather forecasts before starting the trek. Having communication with guides and local villagers will give you ideas as well.
Physical difficulty
Any Himalayan trek demands flexibility in physical and mental health. While it needs strong determination to complete 19 days of the Mesokanto Pass Trek, it evidently demands the physical ability to complete the tasks. This trek is completely safe and is best for both beginners and experienced trekkers. While this trek is safe, it poses challenges like physical difficulty. Along the way, you’ll be passing through rugged trails, steep ridges, and rocky roads which makes it challenging to walk while also ascending in altitude. Physical difficulty may lead to leg pain, joint pain, and back pain.
This is why, to overcome strenuous journeys, it is essential to practice minor training or simple exercises 3-4 weeks prior to your trekking journey. Practicing cardiovascular exercises like running, walking, swimming, and skipping shall build your endurance and strength, while practicing exercises like squats, Romanian deadlifts, stretching, lunges, crunches, planks, and many more shall assist you during your trekking journey, providing you comfort and well-furnished journey along with lively and enjoyable experience.
Limited facilities
While Mesokanto Pass being located at a high altitude, it is deprived of basic facilities and despite that, it assures you an enjoyable time during your trekking journey. As it is situated in the high Himalayan region, it lacks standard facilities, but the trek doesnot compromise on providing you a safe journey with adequate and delicious food along with a cozy and warm night.
People of this region shall welcome you with warm hospitality which shall fill your heart. Most villages along the Mesokanto Pass Trek have electricity, but it's best to carry your headlamp along the trek. Furthermore, the remote areas of the high Himalayan region may be deprived of health posts or medical centers; therefore, it is best to carry a first aid kit along with you. Also, having basic knowledge of first aid tools will be beneficial during any kind of sickness or minor injuries.
Some Helpful Tips for Mesokanto Pass Trek
Trekking in the Himalayan region is a magical experience. While this trek offers you lots of scenic highlights and cultural insights, there comes along with risks and challenges. Here are some helpful advice for you if you are planning a trek to Mesokanto Pass:
- You must have basic knowledge of First Aid
- Ascend slowly uphill
- Stay in group
- Schedule your rest days
- Perform some light exercises 2-3 weeks prior to the trek
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
- Stay hydrated and carry diamox for altitude sickness
- Bring along an oximeter to check oxygen levels at high altitude
- Intake carbohydrate-rich foods
- Pack warm clothes to deal with coldness
- Stay updated with weather forecasting
- Hire experienced guides and porters
- Prepare for sudden weather fluctuations
- Don’t forget to pack your documents
- Carry an emergency contact number
- Research route prior to trekking
- Keep yourself at a safe distance from any wildlife species
- Wear comfortable shoes and trekking pants
- Bring along trekking poles as they help you a lot
- Immerse yourself in local customs
