Gunjan
If you are looking for a peaceful and scenic place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, you might want to consider visiting Beding, a small village in the Rolwaling Valley of Nepal. Beding is located at an altitude of 3,800 m, under the shadow of Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134 m), one of the sacred mountains in Nepal. Beding is home to about 280 Sherpa people, who follow Buddhism and have a unique culture and lifestyle.
Beding is not a typical tourist destination, as it is off the beaten track and requires a challenging trek to reach. The nearest road access is at Chhetchhet, which is about 22 km away from Beding. From there, you have to walk for several days along the Rolwaling River, passing through forests, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and other villages. The trek is rewarding, as you will get to see stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, glaciers, and lakes along the way
One of the main attractions of Beding is the Tsho Rolpa Lake, which is considered holy by the locals. The lake is about 4 km away from Beding, and it is the largest glacial lake in Nepal. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and has a turquoise color. It is a serene and spiritual place, where you can meditate, pray, or just admire the beauty of nature.
Whether you’re an avid trekker seeking challenging adventures or a nature lover yearning for peace and serenity, Beding has something for everyone. Here’s a glimpse into what awaits you in this captivating village:
Tranquil Beauty:
- Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Beding boasts mesmerizing landscapes. The village sits on the banks of the Rolwaling River, its turquoise waters reflecting the grandeur of the Himalayas.
- Lush green meadows carpet the valley, dotted with prayer flags that flutter in the wind.
- The air is crisp and clean, filled with the fragrance of wildflowers and the melodies of birdsong.
Rich Culture:
- Beding’s Sherpa heritage is evident in its traditional houses, adorned with intricate carvings and colorful prayer flags.
- The villagers warmly welcome visitors, offering a glimpse into their lives and customs.
- Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in prayer ceremonies at the village monasteries or enjoying traditional Sherpa cuisine.
Thrilling Adventures:
- Beding serves as the base camp for trekkers heading to Tsho Rolpa, a sacred glacial lake considered holy by the locals.
- The challenging trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the opportunity to witness diverse flora and fauna.
- For less strenuous activities, explore the surrounding meadows, hike to nearby viewpoints, or simply relax and soak in the tranquility of the village.
Essential Information:
- Getting there: Beding is accessible by trekking from Chhetchhet, the nearest village with road access. The trek takes approximately 3-4 days.
- Best time to visit: October, November, April, and May offer pleasant weather conditions. The village may be closed during winter due to snowfall.
- Accommodation: Homestays and teahouses provide basic but comfortable lodging options.
- Responsible tourism: Be mindful of the local culture and environment. Respect the villagers’ privacy and traditions. Dispose of waste properly and avoid polluting the surroundings.
Another interesting feature of Beding is that it is a no-kill zone, which means that no one can kill animals or sell meat in the area. This rule was imposed by Guru Rinpoche, a Buddhist master, who also rescued 108 yaks and brought them to Beding to live freely. The locals respect the animals and only use their dung as fuel or fertilizer. You can see the yaks roaming around the village and the lake, adding to the charm of the place.
Beding is a hidden gem in the Rolwaling Valley, which is waiting to be discovered by adventurous and curious travelers. If you are looking for a different and memorable experience in Nepal, you should consider visiting Beding. You will not regret it.
Featured Image: https://upto.site/3dcfe
