Pictures

Nepal is an incredible place to take pictures! Here are some links to different photo galleries we have posted, they are often embedded in trip reports (sometimes they are the entirety of the trip report!): Annapurna 2018 | 2017 | 2016 :: Langtang 2018 | 2017 | 2016

And you can also find some of our photos on Instagram!

himalayanadventurelabs

Experience high-altitude adventures in the Himalayas with HAL! 🏔️
Featured on:
@guardian
@thenationalnews.com
#explorewithHAL ✨

Taplejung town itself has seen significant develop

Taplejung town itself has seen significant development, with most of the trail from there to Sekathum now a road. We opted for the old, poorly maintained trail from Tapethok, following the west side of the river. This path eventually led us astray into a field of cardamoms, a major cash crop in the region, price reaching upto $20/kg. Fun fact: Nepal is the largest producer of large cardamom, accounting for 68% of the global production followed by India and Bhutan. The lush monsoon landscape provided a pleasant backdrop, but the lack of proper acclimatization started to take its toll as we neared KNBC. Headaches intensified with altitude – a classic sign of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Despite reaching Lhonak, pushing further seemed unwise yet we decided to walk towards the base camp. At this point Srijan also began showing symptoms of AMS, and just 2.5km short of KNBC, we made the tough decision to turn back.

Kanchenjunga Makalu Traverse: A Three-Part Adventure. Full trip report on our website and in bio.

#teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #visitnepal2024

Kanchenjunga Makalu Traverse: A Three-Part Adventu

Kanchenjunga Makalu Traverse: A Three-Part Adventure

This trip aimed to visit the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (KNBC) and then traversing west to Makalu Barun National Park. This time with @srijan.takle a highschool friend, and a fellow guide at Himalayan Adventure Labs. Relaxing beforehand in my hometown of Bharatpur, Chitwan, I flew the familiar route – Bharatpur (208m) to Kathmandu (1,400m) to Bhadrapur (91m). However, flight delays plagued both legs, forcing me to catch up with Srijan and @vivek.lekhak (fellow guide and operations head at HAL) at Kathmandu airport for a later flight to Bhadrapur.

Our budget-friendly accommodation near Bhadrapur turned out to be a noisy, dungeon-like hotel next to the highway. As we prepared to leave, I noticed a blister-like shape on my right thigh. Recognizing the importance of addressing such issues near medical facilities, we skipped the morning jeep ride and instead spent precious time visiting two hospitals. Thankfully, a doctor diagnosed it as insect-bite dermatitis and prescribed medication. With a doctor’s blessing, we finally headed off to Taplejung.

Full trip report on our website and in bio.

#teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #visitnepal2024

Running on the Kathmandu valley rim. #kathmandu #

Running on the Kathmandu valley rim.

#kathmandu #nepal

It's confirmed! Some of the HAL goats will be 'cli

It's confirmed! Some of the HAL goats will be 'climbing' to this beautiful Taktshang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) this October. We are open to more goats joining the group 🙂

PS. Sometimes we refer to ourselves as goats because we like to mimic them as we often navigate tricky terrains. No goats were harmed in the making of this post.

#WorldFastpackSeries #teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #bhutan #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking

Mingmar Bhote is from Hongon, Sankhuwasabha, which

Mingmar Bhote is from Hongon, Sankhuwasabha, which lies in Makalu Barun National Park. Mingmar mostly works at his farm in Hongon, and sometimes goes across the border at Kimathanka to Tibet for work. However, the border has been closed since COVID.

Last September, @sudeep__kandel went on a recce trip to connect a trail from the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp with the main trekking trail to Makalu Base Camp. To navigate the challenging section around Malun Pokhari, a notorious spot for trekker disorientation, Sudeep sought Mingmar's invaluable guidance. For the next couple of days, the duo slept in caves, ate plenty of buckwheat & somare (fermented cheese), battled the rain, crossed rivers, and traversed bear territory to finally merge with the Makalu trekking trail.

Read how this adventure from Kanchenjunga to Makalu unfolded in our next newsletter, releasing at the end of this month.

#teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #exploreyourbackyard #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

Tsum Valley's beauty on the Manaslu Fastpack 2023.

Tsum Valley's beauty on the Manaslu Fastpack 2023. Join the 2024 crew: Sept 14 - 29.

#WorldFastpackSeries #TeamHAL #Nepal #backpacking #trailrunning

Reached the Top of Thorung La with HOSI! ️ We a

Reached the Top of Thorung La with HOSI! ️

We at HAL were thrilled to support Avash, Anjan, and Prateek on their incredible journey to Thorung La (5416m) in the Annapurna Conservation Area with our Himalayan Outdoor Safety Initiative (HOSI). This allowed them to focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery and adventure, knowing they were fully covered.

What is HOSI?
HOSI empowers Nepali adventurers, freelance guides and adventure companies to create and implement essential safety protocols.

Why is HOSI important?
Nepal's adventure tourism is booming, and safety standards need to keep pace. Through HOSI, we share our expertise with the industry, promoting safety while showcasing HAL's commitment to amazing adventures. ‍

How does HOSI work?
HOSI provides crucial resources, including:
- Emergency protocols for any situation.
- Satellite phones and trackers for reliable communication.
- Medical insurance and search & rescue coverage for peace of mind.
- Remote medical consultations with wilderness medicine specialists.
- Weather forecasting services to stay ahead of the elements.
- 24/7 backstop support in Kathmandu.

Ready to join the HOSI movement? Let's make adventure tourism in Nepal even safer!

#HOSI #Himalayas #Safety #Nepal #Annapurna
P.S. Swipe through for breathtaking Annapurna views! Pictures from Anjan.

नयाँ वर्षको शुभकाम

नयाँ वर्षको शुभकामना! (Naya Barsha Ko Shubhakamana)

Happy New Year 2081 BS! May the coming year be filled with adventures that move you. Happy New Year to you and your family!

A brief history on the Nepali calendar. The Nepali calendar year has two main contenders for its origin:

Bikram Sambat (BS): This is the official calendar of Nepal and is widely used in the Indian subcontinent. It's a lunisolar calendar, meaning it combines lunar and solar cycles. The most popular belief is that it was established by Emperor Vikramaditya of Ujjain in 56 BCE to commemorate a victory.

Nepal Sambat (NS): This calendar predates the Bikram Sambat and was established on October 20, 879 CE. It's a purely lunar calendar based on ancient Hindu traditions. Nepal Sambat was the national calendar for a significant period, especially during the Malla dynasty (12th-18th centuries). However, with the rise of the Shah dynasty in the 18th century, the Bikram Sambat gained prominence and eventually became the official calendar in the Rana period (1846-1951).

Currently, both calendars are used in Nepal - Bikram Sambat for official purposes and Nepal Sambat for traditional festivals and cultural events.

#nepal

What makes the Himalayan valleys accessible for ma

What makes the Himalayan valleys accessible for many people is the hard work and resilience of its inhabitants. A tribute to every दाइ, दिदी, भाइ and बहिनी who work behind the scenes to make our trip smooth and memorable, often without us even realizing it.

Also, a gentle reminder that we're not "exploring" these lands, but rather walking in the footsteps of the locals and travelers who have lived on and traversed them for centuries.

#Nepal #NepalNow #mountains #backpacking #fastpacking #trailrunning #WorldFastpackSeries #TeamHAL

Naar: Where the Himalayas Wear a Blanket of Snow ❄️

Experience this hidden gem with HAL this May. Unforgettable adventures await!

#WorldFastpackSeries #TeamHAL #Nepal #NepalNow #AdventureAwaits #HiddenValleys #MountainExploration

Naar, nestled at 4184 meters, also known as "Chupr

Naar, nestled at 4184 meters, also known as "Chuprong," the place of Blue Sheep, holds a rich history. Legend whispers of its inhabitants, descendants from Tibet's ancient Shang Sung Kingdom, arriving in the 8th century. Here, Buddhism took root, replacing the Bon faith practiced since the birth of Buddha in Lumbini.

The veil of mystery began to lift in the 1950s when the first foreigners reached Naar and Phu. Their tales, captured in weathered travelogues, describe a high, arid valley. Picture a few hundred inhabitants living in two small villages, surrounded by crumbling ruins, sacred sites, and breathtaking vistas. Yaks graze freely, while wild sheep roam the slopes below some of Nepal's most challenging trails and highest peaks. Naar itself sits at 4184 meters, with Phu, a few days' walk further north, at 3959 meters. Nestled between them lie the winter villages of Meta, Chako (belonging to Naar), and Kyang (of Phu) - a testament to the hardy spirit of the villagers who descend to escape the harshest winter cold.

Join us this May as we walk these ancient trails of the Annapurna: the Naar and Phu Valleys. Led by our expert guide @anujchudal whose smile is as infectious as his passion for the mountains.

Pictures from HAL trip in spring 2022 @anirajkarki @srijan.takle @sijan.th @sudeep__kandel For a deeper dive into the history and beauty of Naar Phu, check out this insightful account by Don Messerschmidt: http://ecs.com.np/features/nar-phutrekkers-view-of-then-and-now

#WorldFastpackSeries #TeamHAL #Nepal #NepalNow #AdventureAwaits #HiddenValleys #MountainExploration

नेपालको मनमोहक बाह

नेपालको मनमोहक बाहिरी क्षेत्र जोखिमरहित छैन । आपतकालीन पूर्वतयारीको अभाव (सन् २०१४ को नेपाल हिमआँधी विपत्तिलाई सम्झनुहोस्) लगायत कमजोर सुरक्षा अभ्यासहरूले विगतमा चोटपटक र मृत्युका घटनाहरू निम्त्याएका छन्। हिमालयन आउटडोर सेफ्टी इनिसियटिभ (एचओएसआई) यसलाई परिवर्तन गर्न यहाँ छ।

हाम्रो कार्यक्रमले नेपाली साहसी र स्वतन्त्र ट्रेकिङ गाइडहरूलाई बाह्य सुरक्षा सुनिश्चित गर्न आवश्यक स्रोतहरू जस्तै स्याटेलाइट उपकरणहरू, चिकित्सा बीमा, खोज र उद्धार कभरेज, र विश्वस्तरीय डाक्टरहरू र मौसम पूर्वानुमानकर्ताहरूको पहुँचको साथ सुसज्जित गर्दछ। हिमालयमा साहसिक स्तरहरू माथि उठाउन हामीसँग सामेल हुनुहोस्, र नेपालमा आउटडोर गतिविधिहरू सबैका लागि सुरक्षित बनाऔं!

यदि तपाईं नेपाली साहसी वा आउटडोर गाइड हुनुहुन्छ वा कसैलाई चिन्नुहुन्छ भने, कृपया यो जानकारी साझा गर्नुहोस्। HOSI प्रस्तावहरू, लागतको बारेमा थप जान्नुहोस्, र तलको लिङ्कमा तपाईंको रुचि दर्ता गर्नुहोस्। https://www.himalayanadventurelabs.com/2023/04/28/hosi/

#HOSI #outdoorsafety #nepal #mountains #himalayas

Leave your own individual perspective behind and t

Leave your own individual perspective behind and try seeing this natural world on its own terms, shrink your own ego into the void of these magnificent Himalayan ranges. This is no one's to claim. And, feel the unity in this universe, this natural world. You are part of it. This is a part of you.

#WorldFastpackSeries #teamHAL #Nepal #Bhutan #Jordan#Tajikistan #Mountains #Trails #Fastpacking #Trekking #TrailRunning

“On the way to Bandipur, a local mistook me for

“On the way to Bandipur, a local mistook me for a trader, inquiring about herbs (Jimbu!) and forgotten remedies. We laughed, savoring the unexpected connection. Bandipur itself perched on a hill, the approach a gradual climb. Lunch at “The Hotel,” run by friends, marked the end of my journey. A quick bus ride later, I was back in Narayanghat, my humble abode.

This wasn’t just a trek; it was a walk through time, a conversation with history. Stepping onto the ancient trade route, I felt connected to the countless traders who came before me, their stories carried on the wind. And I, like those traders, carry a piece of that spirit within me, ready to write my own chapter in this ancient story.”

Words and pictures by Sudeep from his trip report - A Walk Through Time: From Narayani's Shores to Himalayan Vistas

Upcoming adventures:
Helambu Trail Running Camp (Mar 24-30, 2024)
Annapurna - Naar Phu Variation (May 11-26, 2024)

#exploreyourbackyard #teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

“Day two brought me deep into a dense forest, th

“Day two brought me deep into a dense forest, the rustle of leaves whispering tales of unseen predators, real or imagined. The trail merged with a road, but it vanished soon after, swallowed by a landslide. After a wrong turn, I found myself on a cliffside, anxiety mingling with awe at the panoramic view. A chance encounter with a kind hunter set me back on track. Reaching a hilltop farmhouse, I approached an old couple drying beans, inquiring about lunch. Their response was a skeptical glance and muttered, “It’s past our usual time.” With a nod, I pressed on, finding refuge in Dhan Bahadur Gurung’s house in Dodya, a village nestled amidst orange orchards with breathtaking Himalayan views.

The next day, after some confusion, I found the beautiful single-track trail and crossed the river. A snack break at Sarang Ghat fueled my legs with delicious momos. Dharapani beckoned, but daylight nudged me onward to Baksi, offering panoramic views of Bandipur and the mountains beyond.”

Words and pictures by Sudeep from his trip report - A Walk Through Time: From Narayani's Shores to Himalayan Vistas

Upcoming adventures:
Helambu Trail Running Camp (Mar 24-30, 2024)
Annapurna - Naar Phu Variation (May 11-26, 2024)

#exploreyourbackyard #teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

“It’s past noon, not exactly textbook trekking

“It’s past noon, not exactly textbook trekking time, but hey, I was never one for dusty textbooks. My backpack, a white behemoth on my back, attracts curious glances as I weave through the bustling Narayanghat bazaar. The distance board on the highway sparks memories of our Trans Nepal run in 2014, a youthful ambition taken out on these dusty roads.

Crossing the Narayani, the Himalayas emerge from the haze, Manaslu and Himalchuli beckoning like slumbering giants. Kalika temple, my local Everest, perched familiarly on its ridge. Now, a gondola whisks pilgrims up, but I preferred the traditional path, relishing the sweat and dust as a badge of honor earned.

Saune, north of Devghat, welcomed me with the friendly suspicion reserved for northbound wanderers. As I camped on the outskirts, a dehydrated dinner warming my stomach, a neighbor invited me into their kitchen. Stories flowed like the river beside us, fueled by the earthy aroma of millet moonshine and bidi smoke. Laughter mingled with the crackling fire, forging a connection that transcended language.”

Words and pictures by Sudeep from his trip report - A Walk Through Time: From Narayani's Shores to Himalayan Vistas

Upcoming adventures:
Helambu Trail Running Camp (Mar 24-30, 2024)
Annapurna - Naar Phu Variation (May 11-26, 2024)

#exploreyourbackyard #teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

“The Narayani River flowed past my doorstep, and

“The Narayani River flowed past my doorstep, and Manaslu peak stood tall in my view. Growing up, I dreamt of exploring the hidden trails snaking northwards. These paths once whispered tales of ancient traders carrying spices, salt, and stories between Tibet, Nepal, and India until the 1960s and 70s. Their arduous journeys, fraught with hardship, laid the foundation for cultural exchange and paved the way for generations to come. One such trader, Hange Chepang from Jyandala, frequented the Thori trade route, leaving behind a legacy of resilience documented in this insightful account: http://ranichari.blogspot.com/2012/05/reminiscence-of-past-journey.html

In the dawn of 2022, I decided to retrace their steps, not as a trader but as a modern pilgrim on a route etched in history.”

Words and pictures by Sudeep from his trip report - A Walk Through Time: From Narayani's Shores to Himalayan Vistas

Upcoming adventures:
Helambu Trail Running Camp (Mar 24-30, 2024)
Annapurna - Naar Phu Variation (May 11-26, 2024)

#exploreyourbackyard #teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

"The night before, snow/rain drummed on our humble

"The night before, snow/rain drummed on our humble abode, wind singing out of tune, my body long asleep with clothes ragged and stained with roads we had travelled, but my mind still listening to the beat. For some reason I remembered Jack Kerouac. We were his mad ones. Desirous of everything at the same time. Mad to live. Mad to be saved."

Lamjung High, April 2022. Full trip report with pictures in bio. @srijan.takle @sudeep__kandel

#teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #exploreyourbackyard #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

"The first sunrise of this Nepali new year held no

"The first sunrise of this Nepali new year held no importance to us (I was barely holding my ghost) and we still had a long way till Timang and we were still processing the day before. We walked and slid half a day more to get to warmth, food and bed. Towards the end, descending felt like an old cartoon strip off a box TV. It felt like the characters speeding down waiting for one horrible fall with flocks of birds watching from above ready to laugh! IT WAS DONE. Our first breath after coma. Warmth is a great feeling. We met a local at the foothills who called us idiots for crossing that pass and we accepted with a smile."

Lamjung High, April 2022. Full trip report with pictures in bio. @srijan.takle @sudeep__kandel

#teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #exploreyourbackyard #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

"There were no celebrations as the other side look

"There were no celebrations as the other side looked like the real time location of GoTs ‘beyond the wall’. Scaling down, we had a few close calls (Sudeep dai fell approximately 50m down from the pass as his backpack cushioned his safety and lost his beloved Nalgene in the turmoil which we are determined to find later this year), took some more gnarly falls, slid down mountains to save time, walked through knee high snow, and camped at the bottom next to a sad frozen pond. Still snowing. High winds. Somehow not hungry. Exhausted. Sleepy. SAFE."

Lamjung High, April 2022. Full trip report with pictures in bio. @srijan.takle @sudeep__kandel

#teamHAL #mgGHT #brewadventure #visitnepal2024 #exploreyourbackyard #nepal #himalayas #climbing #mountains #trails #fastpacking #trailrunning #trekking #backpacking #nepalnow

Load More... Follow on Instagram