"The Mountains of Nepal are awaiting eagerly and I must go for 'Trekking in Nepal'
Trekking in Nepal is mostly a walking activity done to enjoy the nature, scenery, village, culture, lifestyle, rugged rural landscapes, and even to accomplish historical and admired destinations like base camp of iconic mountains.
People sometimes trek to socialize themselves; some do it to release themselves from the hectic, mentally tedious city lifestyle, while some trek to maintain fitness levels, i.e. for the sake of physical conditioning because trekking is a good workout and a recreational activity.
Trekking can be called a type of meditation. It lets your brain calm down while your muscles work vigorously and it helps you build your core, your endurance, and improves your overall potency. It enhances one's physical confidence too.
Being amidst nature helps you regain your mental peace. When on a trek, you also tend to maintain a balanced lifestyle of exercise combined with a good diet and great sleep.
Usually, people who love nature, people, adventure choose to do trekking. Trek lovers might go for desert trekking, tropical trekking, backpacking, arctic trekking, or mountain trekking.
But among these, mountain trekking is preferred most by trek enthusiasts because of the beautiful nature, amazing weather, and stunning view the mountain top offers. Mountain trekking represents what trekking is all about: breathtaking views, fresh air, and a good workout.
Trekkers claim that Nepal is the best destination for mountain trekking. Trekking in Nepal is about mountain trekking and trekking through the foothills of giant Himalayas along with exploration of local culture and lifestyle.
The most popular trekking regions in Nepal include the Everest region, Annapurna region, Langtang region, and Manaslu region followed by Mustang, Dhaulagiri, Dolpo, and Kanchenjunga.
One of the most popular and challenging trekking trials is the ‘Great Himalayan Trails’, a widespread track scheme covering the whole length of the Himalayas of Nepal from Humla and Darchula in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east.
The history of trekking in Nepal dates back to the 1920s with the renowned account of George Mallory and Andrew "Sandy" Irvine, well-known mountaineers who tried their first ascent to the world's highest mountain Everest but unfortunately never returned.
Later in 1949, Nepal allowed its borderlands to the exterior world for climbing. Annapurna I (8091m) was the first mountain in 1950, followed by Mt. Everest (8,848m) in 1953.
A formal initiator of trekking in Nepal is the British adventurer Bill Tilman. He made numerous treks into the Kali Gandaki, Helambu, and Everest regions of Nepal from 1949 to 1950.
Colonel Jimmy Roberts, a father of trekking in Nepal, was the foremost person to organize the first commercial trek in Nepal in the 1960s.
He was a former Gurkha Officer and Military Attaché at the British Embassy and spent several years walking in the Himalayan foothills, landscapes, and topographies of Nepal. In 1964 he registered Mountain Travel Trekking Agency, the first trekking company of Nepal.
He later joined with other Nepali and foreign partners as Dawa Norbu Sherpa, Mike Leo LeBon, Allen Steck and Barry Bishop from the USA, and Warwick Peacock from Australia, who regularly co-operated him by sending clients from their respective nations and Nepalese partner helped him organize the treks and tours in various regions of Nepal.
This became the inspiration for Nepalese people to start up their trekking agencies. Now, there are hundreds of trekking agencies in Nepal.
Lately, trekking in Nepal, hiking, and mountaineering activities in Nepal have become popular. Thus, Nepal's tourism is centered on trekking and mountaineering.
Day hikes, short treks, long treks, off-the-beaten, challenging treks, and mountain expeditions can be organized in Nepal through local agencies ranging from a few hours to a month-long duration.
Trekkers can choose journeys according to their budget, interests, and fitness level.
Based on the accommodation and eating facilities, trekking in Nepal is categorized as teahouse trekking and camping trekking in Nepal.
Based on food and accommodations, the tea house trek and camping trek are quite popular divisions of trekking in Nepal.
Teahouses are defined as small mountain lodges usually run by locals having basic amenities. These are established on most of the trekking trails throughout Nepal.
You can transverse, passing them every hour in the famous trail of Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and Mustang regions.
A teahouse might have numerous tiny houses. Each house is set up of small rooms with multiple sharing or twin sharing bedrooms and shared bathrooms (mostly). Teahouses charge extra for rooms with private bathrooms.
They charge extra for a hot shower, heater (if they offer), electric blanket (if they have), kerosine heater (if they have).
Bedrooms of teahouses have simple single beds with a blanket for each, but carrying a sleeping bag is highly recommended.
Food and accommodation in the teahouses of lower elevation are reasonable compared to that in higher altitude, i.e., the price increases with the altitude as the transportation are inconvenient, and all the necessary items are carried manually.
The teahouses also have small shops to buy boiled and bottled water, snacks, soft drinks, candy, etc.
Teahouse trekking provides you an opportunity to interact with locals, eat homemade fresh food, meet and interact with other trekkers, sit around the fire, and have the night's rest in twin sharing or multiple sharing bedrooms.
You will have your breakfast and dinner at teahouses where you sleep, while lunch is eaten in one of the teahouses along the route.
When trekking in Nepal started, it was only camping trekking. However, nowadays, because there are teahouses available along many popular trekking routes of Nepal, camping trekking is comparatively less famous as it's expensive.
But in the trails where there are no teahouses available or only too basic teahouses, some trekkers opt to do camping trekking.
Some trekkers are fond of camping trekking because of the only type of enjoyment it provides. Therefore, they prefer to do camping trekking, although good teahouses are available on the trail.
But, there are some trekking areas in Nepal where camping trekking is preferred despite the availability of basic teahouses.
Camping trek would be better in Kanchenjunga Base Camp trail, Makalu trail, Dhaulagiri trek, some remote part of Annapurna such as Narphu, Tilicho- Mesokanto pass, and Mustang Saribung Pass trek, Rolwaling- Tashi Lapcha Pass trek, etc., either there are no teahouses all through these routes or there are too basic teahouses.
In an organized camping trek, you will be greeted by a cup of tea or coffee early in the morning. Then you will be offered a recently cooked fresh breakfast before starting the trek of the day.
Of course, trekkers can walk at their own pace having the picturesque views of landscapes, mountains, and whole sceneries capturing them all in your cameras.
A lot of support crew is needed to carry all the supplies and logistics for the camping trek.
Depending upon the trekkers' group size guide, numbers of porters, cooks, camping staff are needed for camping trekking along with all food and logistics like dining tent, kitchen tent, sleeping tent, toilet tent, sleeping mats, kitchen equipment, fuel, etc. are needed for camping trek that makes it an expensive project. However, a well-organized camping trek bid terrific memory of a lifetime.
Its legally permitted to trek independently in Nepal. Obviously, it’s more convenient to go on an organized trek but if you are an avid adventurer (want to explore things on your own) or have a limited budget or limited time, then independent trekking or trekking on your own in Nepal would be a wonderful experience too.
Many people do the trek in Nepal on their own even on their first trek. Usually, popular classic trails (except restricted areas) where you can meet a lot of other trekkers are safe for independent trekking.
Classic popular trails are usually well marked. Several teahouses can be found along the trail for eating and sleeping. You can find several guidebooks and resources to find out about the trekking itineraries.
Maps of Nepal might not be very useful, but you don't need them. You don't also need GPS navigation. Of course, trekking independently has to have a lot of planning.
Pros of independent trekking
Cons of independent trekking
If you lack time for planning, then joining an organized trip would be better. Booking it through a local agency would be good. Since international agencies who organize treks also hand over the trek to the local agencies, it’s wise to choose local agencies and save a lot of money.
Local trekking agencies offer fully organized packages (customized programs) that include pick up at the airport upon arrival, accommodation before and after the trek, permits, transport, food, and accommodation during the trek, guide, porters to airport drop for departure, etc.
You just need to tell your interest, and the rest will be organized according to your interest, etc.
While joining on an organized trek, you can either ask for a private trek or a group joining a trek. Group joining might not be always available for your preferred date. In that case, you can go on a private trek.
Hiring a guide and porter or just a guide or a porter or a guide-porter (guide-porter is a person who is a going-to-be-a-guide who works both as a guide and helps you carry part of your luggage as a porter) is also possible.
The best way is to do it through an agency to make sure you get a knowledgeable staff that can speak English, has enough experience, and all the necessary paperwork.
On guide/porter hiring organized trek also the agency will help you with permits, transportation, etc. The guide/porter will suggest to you a better place for food and accommodation along the trek.
If you don’t like group tours it’s possible to hire a guide or a porter (or both) just for you. A standard price for an English-speaking trekking guide is US$30-35 per day depending on the number of trekkers. For a porter, you’ll have to pay US$20-25 per day.
A porter does not carry more than 25 kgs. So, if you only have 10-12 kgs of luggage each, one porter can be shared between two trekkers. On organized treks by agencies, they provide one porter among two trekkers unless you ask a private porter for an extra payment.
A guide-porter charge is approx. US$ 25 per day. A guide-porter shows you the trail, may tell you a little bit about the lifestyle, etc. The price includes accommodation, food, and insurance.
Trekking in Nepal is possible throughout the year but it depends entirely on where your targeted trail is. Not all areas are trekkable throughout the year. Nepal has a terrific variation of topography.
Nepal has tropical zone below 1,000 meters (3,300 ft), the subtropical climate zone from 1,000 to 2,000 meters, the temperate climate zone from 2,000 to 3,000 meters (6,600 to 9,800 ft), the subalpine zone from 3,000 to 4,000 meters (9,800 to 13,100 ft), the alpine zone from 4,000 to 5,000 meters (13,100 to 16,400 ft) and the tundra zone from 5,000 to 8,848 meters (16,404 to 29,029 ft).
Some high-altitude treks are trekkable in limited months/seasons while some can trek all year round. However, most of the trekkers choose two peak seasons of autumn (October to November) and spring (March to May.
If you are an avid trekker, you are suggested to trek in all seasons so that you gain experience and compare how trekking in Nepal is different in a different season.
Autumn, the most demanding trekking time of the year governed by annual equinoxes offers an abundance of chances for mountain views, crystal clear skies, and mild temperatures.
With less probability of precipitation, autumn is the time of better visibility. The high mountains are still cold but lower elevations are still warm but generally, the daytime walking temperatures are the most pleasant.
Bad weather can hit any time of year but the fall has the most reliable conditions. The great festivals of Nepal fall in these months, so every household is decorated and people look joyful.
Different types of flowers bloom in every resident for Dashain and Tihar (Deepawali). The probability of natural disasters is less during autumn making it a safe season to trek in Nepal.
Pros:
Cons:
March, April, and May- the spring months are considered as the second-best months for trekking and the best season for mountaineering.
The temperature gets warmer and the blossoming of varieties of wild flora from giant rhododendrons to cherries above 2000m makes the journey more interesting.
The temperature remains stable and the skies are clear with the splendid panorama of the Himalayan spheres. In the lower lands, it's warm to hot but it gets chillier at the higher altitudes above 4000m.
Pros:
Cons:
Nepal gets summer monsoon starting from the end of June to mid -September. Temperatures are high with intermittent rainfall. The rain can flood the trails and cause landslides so it’s not a good time to trek in most of Nepal’s trekking regions.
But monsoon is the time of rice plantation and nature paints a whole country with green color.
This is not a good time to trek except in the rain-shadow area of Himalaya Dolpo and Mustang which is the Wild West of Nepal close to the Tibetan border. In Dolpo and Mustang, the summer months are warm and dry, thus ideal for trekking.
Pros:
Cons:
Trekkers find sunny days, chilly nights, and windy atmospheres while trekking in the Himalayan foothills of Nepal during the winter months. Trekking in the lower landscapes is perfect and trekkers can enjoy dazzling mountain views.
Daylight is short. Trekking involving high passes is not suggested due to snow and cold temperature.
An average temperature in the Himalayas will be up to -18 degrees Celsius, sloping regions 0 to 5 degrees Celsius, and plain sections 10 to 15 degrees Celsius in winter months.
Pros:
Cons:
Teahouses are mountain lodges located along many of the trekking routes in Nepal that provide meals and lodging. They are similar to mountain huts in the Alps, except you primarily get private rooms and a comprehensive food choice in Nepal.
Most of the trekking routes are filled with teahouses. Unfortunately, it is too long to include all the teahouse treks of Nepal. However, some of the most popular are scheduled below.
Everest Base Camp trek is a big adventure itself and requires no further introduction to the journey. Trekkers will reach the base of the tallest peak of the planet-Mt. Everest (8848.86), passing the cultural Sherpa villages, flora, and fauna of Sagarmatha National Park, deep Himalayan valleys, religious shrines, and viewing the otherworldly scenery of almighty peaks.
Several journeys are adjoined with this trek; three passes trek, Gokyo lakes trek, Island peak climbing, Ama Dablam expedition, Mera peak climbing, and many more.
The most popular trek route for Everest Base Camp is beginning and ending at Lukla, after a short but scenic flight from Kathmandu. However, trekkers can commence and finish their adventure somewhere at Jiri, Salleri, and Phaplu.
It is a moderately arduous journey that requires around 12 days to be completed and reaches 5545m above sea level through some rocky ridges, terrains, valleys, glaciers, chortens, Gumbas, Mani walls, and prayer flags dot the hiking path.
Trekkers will walk 5-6 hours every day on average to succeed in this adventure. Then, relax in the famed Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar and Dingboche for acclimatization and learn more about their culture and traditions.
Annapurna Base Camp trek, popularly known for Annapurna Sanctuary trek, is one of the best trekking destinations throughout the Annapurna Conservation area. Beginning and ending at the city of lakes- Pokhara, Annapurna Base Camp trek usually demands 9-15 days to be completed; that depends whether you take the route of Poon hill or not.
During your ABC hike, the mountains, landscapes, hills, rivers, springs, terraced fields, and gorges look exceptional. On the way, you will pass another mountain base camp- Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
It is evident that the scenery is quite different from most other classic treks because the views are less extended and more vertical, having plenty of excellent backdrops; this beautiful journey is peaceful and revitalizing: you find yourself looking almost straight up to see the mountains towering above you.
All in all, this beautiful journey is a rewarding hike simply entrancing for its impending beauty and remarkable experiences. Encountering the diverse communities of Gurung and Magars, the trek leads to the heavenly mountain sceneries; the journey is about making memories while scrolling past one village to another.
Annapurna Circuit trek is another incredible journey to the Nepalese Himalayas that encircles Mt. Annapurna (8091m), the 10th tallest peak. The journey leads to the deep valleys, rural settlements, gorges, Himalayan lakes, and rivers, glaciers, viewing the almighty peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Bensishahar, Tal, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, Jomsom, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Ulleri are some of the most famous settlements to pass throughout your hike. The Annapurna circuit leads you 5416m above sea level at Thorong La, one of the higher elevated journeys.
Braga Monastery, Muktinath temple, Kagbeni village are some of the religious shrines you will visit during your tour. As the access of road reaches Manang, and up to Muktinath, trekkers can shorten their trek using a vehicle.
Standing at Poon hill, a popular vantage spot, trekkers will get the panoramic views of the almighty peaks gleaming every moment with the rays of the sun. During the first and last rays of the sun, entire Himalayan massifs look golden, making the atmosphere quite photogenic.
Famous as the Annapurna Panorama trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is Nepal's most classic short trek inside Annapurna Conservation Area, in the northern territory of Pokhara valley. It is perhaps the ultimate short trek in the lap of the Nepalese Himalayas.
Suitable for people of all age groups, incredibly excellent for families having children, this trek can be 4 or 5 days in length and still gets into the heart of the Annapurna. Poon Hill (3,210m/10192ft) is a definitive vantage point for the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Varaha Shikhar, and Lamjung Himal.
Hiking up to Poon Hill to watch the sunrise and sunset over these stunning snow-covered massifs is something to be precious. Like Annapurna Base Camp, this trek's beginning and ending point are in Pokhara, the city of lakes, caves, religious spots, and touristic sites.
Trekkers can extend their journey exploring Pokhara and further driving to Chitwan National Park, the eldest national park of Nepal with a plethora of natural wonders.
Trekkers had little time or were fearful of beginning the more extended, higher altitude expeditions, choosing the Langtang trek. Starting the journey at Syabrubensi, just 49.6 kilometers from Kathmandu, the Langtang valley trek is one of the shortest and fast reached journeys from the capital of Nepal.
However, being more concise, the Langtang trek captures all the best Himalayan trekking with striking scenery and enthralling culture. It offers numerous things making the trip here to be worthy.
Langtang valley trek is not all about mountains and their warm people. Instead, it encompasses meandering via dense woodlands of Langtang National Park, which covers the tropical lowland jungles to icy high altitude glaciers and is the home of arboreal Himalayan Tahr, Red Panda, Danphe, snow leopards, Himalayan Monal, species of other wild animals, and birds.
I am sure that this trek is fruitful for those who love watching animals and birds. Densely forested lands and expansive meadows are some other stunning features of this trek.
Gosaikunda trek, Tamang Heritage trail, Ganesh Himal Base Camp trek, Helambu trek are the best alternative routes for the Langtang valley trek. Trekkers can extend their hike by choosing any of these treks.
Standing at Tserko Ri (5,000m), the highest elevated land of the entire trekking, trekkers will be welcomed by the breathtaking views of Yala Peak (5,520m), Langtang Ri (7,205m), Langtang Lirung (7,227m), and Naya Khang (5,844m), Kimshung (6781m) Langshisha Ri (6370m) and several other peaks around.
A complete Everest circuit trek, Everest three passes trek is a long adventure that rises from Lukla to Namche, Dingboche, leaves the main EBC trail, and heads towards Chhukung, crossing the road Kongma La (5535m) to Lobuche.
Then, climbing to Everest Base Camp (5364m) and Kala Patthar(5545m), the trail leads you towards Gokyo valley via Cho La ( 5420m). The journey then moves towards Renjo La (5,340m), Thame, and ultimately to Lukla via Namche Bazaar.
This trek is a gateway to feeling the unique taste of nature and culture of the entire Khumbu region; beautiful landscapes, breathtaking humongous mountain massifs, narrow ridges, rickety suspension bridges, breathtaking villages, glaciers, pristine waterfalls, rhododendron backwoods, alpine vegetation, several Buddhist religious monasteries, chortens, alleys, mane walls, fluttering prayer flags, and prayer wheels.
An ultimate journey to the Khumbu region; Everest three passes loop begins somewhere from Lukla (that enthralling mountain airport that you fly into) or further down the mountains at Jiri, Shivalaya, Salleri, or Phaplu. Beginning/ending at Jiri, Shivalaya, Salleri, or Phaplu help you to escape an adventurous flight to and from Lukla.
Upper Mustang, a hidden Himalayan kingdom of Nepal, is geographically part of the Tibetan plateau opened for foreign travelers only in 1992 AD, implementing a restricted area permit (RAP).
Trekking in Upper Mustang is to experience a way of life of genuine mountain people who, for several hundred years, had minimal contact with the rest of the Nepalese people and retained their rich cultural heritage.
An exciting thing is Upper Mustang was a separate kingdom until 1950 within the boundaries of Nepal. Thus this trek makes its way to the hidden Buddhist Kingdom of Mustang, which is known as Lo.
This remote trans-Himalayan region borders Tibet and has a dissimilar Tibetan feel, both in its folks and beliefs and its arid scenery of high cliffs and rocks of unusual formations and colors.
An ultimate destination of the Upper Mustang trek is Lo Manthang, a beautiful small town with only around 150 houses, an ancient King's palace, and the Chode Lhakhang, a monastery that is approximately two centuries old.
Gokyo Lakes trek, the best alternative to traditional Everest Base Camp trek, offers stunning mountain views, including four 8,000m peaks — Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu along with the largest glacier in Nepal, the Ngozumpa glacier as you stand at Gokyo, Ri. It is claimed that trekkers get better views of the mountains from Gokyo Ri than Kala Patthar itself.
Your trek will bring you over the winding path between forgotten valleys, leaving Everest Base Camp's main trail snaking around tranquil lakes and traditional villages. Trekkers will be amazed to explore the lake system of Gokyo Lakes (altogether, there are five lakes in the Gokyo valley).
Also, you will come face-to-face with the jewels of the Gokyo Lakes. Situated in the hidden land of the Khumbu section, Gokyo village is one of the Himalayas' unsung treasures of Nepal.
The route of Gokyo Lakes is less crowded, more beautiful, and peaceful. Trekkers wishing to escape the hectic trails of Everest Base Camp choose this trek. On the way, they will see an impressive view of icy rivers and stony, glacier debris, snow-capped mountains, and of course, the dazzling turquoise waters of Gokyo Lakes themselves.
Newly opened, short yet beautiful trekking trail of central Nepal, Mardi Himal trek reached the base of Mardi Himal beneath the formidable Mt. Machapuchhre, the fishtail mountain, inside the Annapurna Conservation area. Suitable for beginners and experienced hikers, this trek is ideal for those who wish to trek on this off-beat and comparatively less crowded trekking destination.
This trek leads you on great trails via green hills, forested lands of oak and rhododendron trees, and valleys flanked by snow-capped mountains and beautiful valleys. While trekking over the high ridges, you will get an astonishing view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu ranges, and Mt. Machapuchhre.
Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda trek take you away from the hectic trials of the Everest Base Camp, Ghorepani Poonhill, Annapurna Base Camp, or the Annapurna Circuit trek. This trek falls in the off-the-beaten trekking trail of the entire Annapurna region.
A newly opened trekking route, Khopra Danda and Mohare Danda features stunning views of snowcapped mountains and exposure to various ethnicities of the region. This off-the-beaten trek is ideal for beginners and families with children as the trails are made correctly and are easy to walk on.
This short trek affords views of the giants: Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7,061m), Bhara Shikhar (7,647m), Annapurna I (8091m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), and several neighboring peaks. In addition, beautiful rhododendron and oak trees, pristine springs, torrential freshwater rivers, ethnic Gurung and Magar settlements, high pasture lands, temporary herder's settlements, and narrow gorges are some of the other things to see during your trek.
Jomsom Muktinath trekking, an ideal journey to the land of Annapurna and Mustang region on the lap of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountain massifs. This is a moderately strenuous journey that includes the deepest gorge of the planet, the Kali Gandaki gorge, religious shrines of Muktinath and Jwala Mai temple, Kagbeni – a religious and historical village, Marpha – a small village will apple brandy and apple orchards, Tatopani – a small township with natural hot spring, local tribes, a cultural exhibition of Magar, Gurung, Lopa, and Thakali people, caves, centuries-old monasteries, and many others.
Generally, the journey begins after a short flight to Jomsom –the district headquarter of Mustang district from Pokhara –the city of lakes. Then, trekking passes through the bank of Kali Gandaki river witnessing astonishing views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. Finally, passing Kagbeni, you will reach Muktinath on the same day.
Now they explore Muktinath temple – a pilgrimage shrine for both Hindus and Buddhists. It carries tremendous religious significance where thousands of devotees reach to worship each year. Muktinath refers to the land of Salvation. Bathing at 108 water sprouts around the temple and diving in the ponds in front of the temple, people feel purified from every sin and misfortune.
Hiking back to Jomsom, trekkers either continue their journey to Tatopani, Ghorepani, Poonhill and back to Pokhara or take a short flight to Pokhara, concluding their entire trekking.
A journey to the remote part of central Nepal, circumnavigating the 8th tallest peak of the planet-Mt. Manaslu (8163m), Manaslu Circuit trek reaches Annapurna Conservation area leaving Manaslu Conservation area. The journey begins at Soti Khola ( Soti River) and ends at Dharapani/Syange –the beginning point of the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Larkey La (5106m) is the trek's highest point, connecting Manaslu to the Annapurna region. This trek is ideal who seek different experiences, less crowded routes, jaw-dropping sceneries, fantastic flora and fauna inside protected lands, deep rhododendron and oak backwoods, and centuries-old settlements and sacred spots.
The people and culture that can be witnessed here are too far from so-called modernization and developments. With that, actual cultural facets and natural grace are remarkable to observe throughout.
Being a restricted area, Manaslu trek requires a special permit along with conservation area permits. Several tourists are still unknown about this epic journey as it was officially opened for foreigners in 1992 and is still restricted.
Witnesses is a stunning and less trodden path. Here, the views of Majestic Mountain peaks, frozen lakes, glaciers, and high mountain crossing will make this exciting trek an adventure of a lifetime.
Apart from the hustle and hectic busy trails, off-the-beaten treks offer a wilderness experience of remoteness.
In course, nature and culture can be explored vividly. Isolated mountain vistas, homegrown fresh food, and vegetables, people with a unique and diverse culture which is far off the modernization can be witnessed.
Thrilling trekking experiences are expected as these routes are secluded from popular treks. Some of the popular off-the-beaten trekking routes are described.
Trek duration: 8-10 days
Level of difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best season: March, April, May, June, October and November
A newly discovered trekking route of the Khumbu/Everest region of eastern Nepal, Pikey Peak trek is the least trekked destination than any other trekking trail of this section. This trek leads you to explore the entire lower Khumbu region. Therefore, it is suitable for everyone who wishes to see the best views, Mt. Kanchanjunga, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and many more.
Pikey Peal trek invites numerous visitors to explore the Everest and lower Khumbu region and the dramatically changing landscapes around, which offers mesmerizing sunset and sunrise views over the giant massifs of the Everest region along with the unique experience of Sherpa culture and lifestyle. In addition, Trekkers will get an opportunity to view the most esteemed Himalayan ranges once they stand at Pikey top.
A journey to Pikey Peak begins at Dhap Bazaar, a 7-8 hours' drive from Kathmandu. Starting the trek from Dhap, trekkers will route to Jhapre – Pikey Base Camp – Pikey Peak – Loding – Junbesi and ultimately to Phaplu before concluding their tour. From Phaplu, either they drive or fly to Kathmandu.
Trek duration: 18-20 days
Level of difficulty: Strenuous
Best season: September, October, November, March, April, and May
Lower Dolpo trek to the world's most isolated and far-flung region takes you between the Dhaulagiri Himalaya chain and the Tibetan plateau. In the lap of the Himalayas, this mysterious land has a dry atmosphere all time of the year as it sits at a rain-shadow area and is at a high altitude.
Although the hike is strenuous and there are a plethora of inconveniences, the rewards are astonishing. The brittle, clear blueness of Phoksundo Lake (3,611m), unique flora and fauna inside Shey Phoksundo National Park, a unique religion (especially Bon), diverse culture, colorful festivals, adventurous passes, views of high pinnacles as Kangirowa, Dhaulagiri, and many others make your journey exceptional.
Most of the areas of Lower Dolpo sits under the protection of Shey Phoksundo National Park, which has safeguarded pine, fir, and birch timberlands and fauna as the elusive snow leopard, rare Himalayan blue sheep, goral, Thar, Himalayan black bear, langur, and rhesus monkeys, among others, maintaining their forte in today's world.
Thus, Lower Dolpo Trek is a naturally extraordinary, culturally significant, and religiously vital place to explore. Trekkers need to pass at least three enthralling passes named Kagmara La, Baga La, and Numa La to succeed in this trek.
The journey begins after a short flight to Jhupal airport from Nepalgunj. Accessing Nepalgunj is possible either by flying or overland riding from Kathmandu. Then the journey passes Dunai, Tarakot, Laini, Nawarpani, Dho Tarap, Numa La Base Camp, Numa La Pass, Danigar, Baga La Pass, Yak Kharka, Ringmo, Phoksundo Lake, Chhepka, and finally to Jhupal before flying back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj. The ancient villages as Tarako, Tarap, and Dho will make you experience the diverse culture, systems, customs, rituals, festivals, and way of life of different ethnic groups.
Trek duration 18-25days
Level of difficulty: Moderate to Demanding
Best season: March, April, May, September, October and November
One of the best off-the-beaten tracks of Nepalese Himalayan foothills, the Makalu Base Camp trek, leads you to the foot of the world's fifth tallest peak-Mt. Makalu (8463m/27,760ft). As the journey passes through the pristine wilderness of Makalu Barun National Park and Arun valley, the world's deepest valley, several ethnic settlements, lustrous rhododendron and pine forests, panoramic views of the mountains nestled in Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and several others.
The journey to Makalu Base Camp begins in Num's warm, terraced cultivated land, a short drive from Tumlingtar airport. Trekkers fly Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to Num on the same day. Trekkers will walk passing Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma Danda, Dobate, Yangri Kharka, Langmale Kharka and Makalu Base Camp. Finally, Trekkers will follow the same route to Tumlingtar to complete their Makalu adventure.
As the journey begins, trekkers will walk in the warm, terraced cultivated lands inhabited by the Rai locales, an ethnic group dominated in the hills of eastern Nepal. Then, as they ascend, they will pass via rhododendron backwoods (most impressive in the spring, when the flowers bloom excellent red, purple, pink, and white), pine, fir, other alpine vegetation, and ultimately to the Himalayan barren lands.
Deeper into the mountainous parts, past the Barun river valley, trekkers will face steep granite cliffs, glacial lands, spectacular waterfalls, and broad pasturelands. Finally, trekkers will find Sherpa communities at higher grounds, their unique culture, and their distinct way of living.
Trek duration 14-16 days
Level of difficulty: Challenging to Adventurous
Best season: March, April, and May, September, October and November
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is an extreme adventure to circumnavigate the world's 7th peak –Mt Dhaulagiri (8167m). Recognized as a challenging and rewarding high passes landscapes treks in Nepal, the Dhaulagiri circuit trek is a unique camping trek that follows off the beaten routes, difficulty, narrow rocky routes, hike passing the glacier, crevasses, avalanches prone areas; rocks fall sections, adventurous French La (pass), and lastly Dhampus pass (Thapa Pass).
Thus, with good stamina and basic mountaineering skills, an adventurous journey to Dhaulagiri rewards stunning views of Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri ii (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m) and several other neighboring peaks.
Your journey to the Dhaulagiri circuit begins after a 4-5 hours' drive to Beni from Pokhara. Reaching Pokhara from Kathmandu has multiple options; flight, overland (private car, jeep, local HiAce, or public bus). From Beni, they will pass various Magar settlements, hills, forested lands, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and some mountain passes to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
From here, trekkers will move towards the hidden valley via French Pass. Then they will reach Yak Kharka and ultimately to Jomsom to conclude their entire trekking adventure. From Jomsom, trekkers can either fly or ride a jeep for Pokhara/Kathmandu.
Trek duration 20-22 days
Level of difficulty: Challenging to Adventurous
Best season: March, April, May, October, and November
Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek takes you to the base of the third tallest peak of the planet –Mt Kanchenjunga (8586m), which is popularly known as the "Five Treasures of the Great Snow" viz. Gold, Silver, Precious Stones, Grain, and Holy Scriptures.
This trek is characterized by greater diversity on many accounts; ethnic groups such as the Rai and Limbu, an inexhaustible range of flora and fauna inside the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, high above rhododendrons and extensive forests with rivers pouring from its sides and the higher summer rainfall in the region, and some of the most outstanding mountain vistas anywhere in the Himalaya.
Stunning views of Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Everest (8848m), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m), Mt. Makalu (8481m), and many others take your breath away.
Throughout the trek, trekkers will pass diverse wildlife and vegetation, including Himalayan black bear, musk deer, snow leopard, red panda, wild boar, pine, Quercus, Castanopsis, rhododendron arboretum, some members of the laurel family, juniper, fir, willow, birch, and many more in the alpine grasslands to sub-tropical forests.
While trekking, trekkers will observe only the natural phenomenon but also the cultural, historical, and traditional aspects of distinct ethnic groups such as Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Gurungs.
Trek duration 20-22 days
Level of difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best season: March, April, May, October and November
A hidden valley inside the Manaslu region of Nepal, the Tsum valley trek is another less beaten trekking route compared to other popular trekking destinations. However, being a restricted region of Nepal, Tsum valley was opened for outsiders in 2008 only.
Considered as a land of living museums, Tsum valley is dominated by Gurungs and Tibetan inhabitants. On the way, they will witness fantastic mountain vistas, dramatic landscapes, terraced farms, mysterious canyons, large chortens, monasteries, gompas, alleys, mane walls, prayer wheels and fluttering prayer flags, an authentic taste of Tibetan culture and the way of living, alpine meadows, river gorges and impressive waterfalls throughout.
An epic journey to Tsum valley begins catching the main trail of Manaslu Circuit Trek till they reach the village of Philim. Then, leaving the main route, they will head towards Tsum valley. In course, they will reach up to Mu Gompa before heading back to Deng, a famous village in the Manaslu circuit trek. Now, they will continue the hike to cross Larkey La (5106m) and walk till they reach Dharapani/Syange, the ending point of the trek.
Trek duration: 19 days
Level of difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best season: March, April, May, September, October and November
A journey to the wild and unexplored hidden gem, Nar Phu valley trek located north of Annapurna famous or an exotic and enthralling valley. Every day, Nar Phu is gaining popularity among the adventure seekers searching for less beaten trails in the remote parts of Nepal. However, being a restricted area, Nar Phu requires a special permit to trek in.
The culture and lifestyle in Nar Phu are similar to Tibetans. However, the presence of monasteries, gompas, chortens, long mane walls, prayer wheels, and fluttering prayer flags, alleys, and other Buddhist religious shrines proves that this valley is rich in Tibetan Buddhism.
An exciting journey to Nar and Phu villages begins from Jagat/Dharapani, initially following the Annapurna Circuit trek trail and then branching off from Koto to follow the off the beaten track to Nar Phu valley.
Exploring the Nar village and Phu Gaun, trekkers ascend to Kang La pass and descend to Nagwal village. From here, trekkers either continue their Annapurna circuit trek via s Thorong La or return to Kathmandu, catching the main route of the Annapurna circuit trek.
Nepal tops among budget-friendly destinations. Nepal is best for budget-friendly trekking and mountaineering adventure, but if you want you can add a little bit of luxury if you can afford some trekking trails (not applicable in all trekking destinations). So, the cost of trekking in Nepal varies.
Legally you can go trekking in all trails of Nepal on your own which is the cheapest option, but there are several disadvantages of trekking on your own.
If you are trekking alone, you will have to navigate your own way along the trails and carry your own bags. This makes the trek much more physically and mentally tough. You will also have no one to go to ask questions or to seek advice.
Trekking alone is okay until everything is okay, if something goes wrong it can be problematic and hazardous. When you consider everything, the cost of a local guide is a very small price to pay for the safety and ease they will bring to your experience.
If you go on an organized trek in Nepal, the costs will change based on how inclusive you want your trip to be.
The cost of Trekking in Nepal varies depending on the area. The same item can cost differently in different places due to difficulty in the carriage (vehicle or manual). The same item can cost more in Everest and may cost less in Annapurna or vice versa.
One thing we all need to understand is that the only way to transport items in the Himalayas is by carrying them manually as the transportation services are unavailable in remoteness.
The total cost of the entire trek depends on many factors as the destination that you want to explore, the activities that you want to undertake during your trip, the seasons that you want to visit, the length and duration of your journey, the group size of trekkers, cost of trekking Permits, trekking guide the cost of guides and porters, mode of accommodation and transportation, food and drinks, and some other miscellaneous expenses like charging your battery, hot shower, adding a private bathroom to your accommodation (where possible).
Either in an organized packaged trip or you go on your own; you need to pay for these expenses:
Transportation: You need to either fly or drive to the trek start point. For example, for the Everest Base Camp trek, you need to fly to Lukla or Phaplu if you want to start your trek from Lukla/Phaplu.
If you want to start your trek from Jiri, you can either trek a public vehicle or a private vehicle. For the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you can also either drive in private or tourist/public bus or fly.
So, transportation cost varies a lot depending upon the trekking trail and the medium of transportation you choose.
Certain permits are required for trekkers while trekking in most trekking trails of Nepal. The cost of those permits may differ according to the type of permit and trekking region.
TIMS is required in most of the trekking destinations except where special permits (restricted area permits) are required. It was implemented jointly by the Nepal Tourism Board and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) to maintain a record system that includes personal details of trekkers, trekking area, trekking routes, organizer agencies, duration, etc.
All important details regarding trekkers and their trekking routes are entered in the Database Management System of the government, which can be useful for the trekkers’ safety and security to help carry out search and rescue operations for trekkers in case of natural calamities and other accidents.
Revenue collected by the government from the distribution of TIMS cards is used for tourism marketing, publicity, and promotion. It is also used for the welfare of trekking laborers like buying medical and insurance policies for them and conducting rescue operations in case of accidents.
The amount is also used to launch various programs as a part of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and meet tourism-related administrative expenses by the government. Some part of it is used to develop infrastructures, promote, conserve, maintain trekking trails.
A substantial amount is also utilized to explore, develop, and promote new destinations besides organizing training and workshops for sustainable and responsible tourism development.
Organized trekkers obtain Blue TIMS cards through your organizer agency (your packaged trip price covers it), however Free Individual Trekkers (FITs) get Green TIMS cards, and the fee for it is Rs 2,000 (approx.US$20).
Likewise, organized trekkers from SAARC countries get Pink TIMS cards paying Rs 300(approx.US$3), while individual trekkers from the SAARC region have to pay Rs 600 (approx.US$6), per person. Payment for TIMS cards is accepted in Nepalese rupees.
One TIMS card is applicable in a single trekking destination only. If you want to trek in the different regions, respective TIMS cards should be obtained. Although the majority of the trekking regions in Nepal require a TIMS permit, one permit is only valid for the trekking area/route as mentioned in the permit.
TIMS can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board, Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu, and the branch office at Lakeside, Pokhara.
You will need Conservation Area Permit and/or National Park Permit if your trekking trail passes through the conservation area or national park (and it happens in most of the trekking trails of Nepal).
Conservation area permits can be taken from the office of the Nepal Tourism Board located in Kathmandu and Pokhara. National Park Permit can be taken from the national park permit counters along the trek.
You need to fill simply a form and submit it along with 2 passport-sized photos and a copy of your passport to get these permits.
Some of the local bodies in the Everest and Malaku sector issue their own permit system. This is a new permit system is newly introduced after the decentralization of government bodies after Nepal became a republic. Such permits are issued at the starting points of the trek.
Some trekking routes are located in restricted areas. They are protected either for cultural, environmental, or political purposes. Trekkers are strictly forbidden to trek independently in restricted areas. Trekking in the restricted area must be organized through an agency and you must trek with a guide.
These restricted areas require a 'special permit' which your organizer agency will organize for you. Special permit to trek in the restricted area is given only for a group, i.e. there must be two trekkers to get the special permission of the restricted area.
| Trekking Destinations |
Permits Needed |
Cost |
|
Annapurna Base Camp |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS Card |
|
Annapurna Circuit |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS Card |
|
Khopra Ridge Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS Card |
|
Jomsom Muktinath Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS Card |
|
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS Card |
|
Mardi Himal Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS Card |
|
Everest Base Camp Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for Rural Municipality Permit |
|
Everest High Pass Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for Rural Municipality Permit |
|
Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for Rural Municipality Permit |
|
Gokyo Lakes Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for Rural Municipality Permit |
|
Langtang Valley Trek |
|
NPR 2,00 for TIMS card |
|
Langtang Gosaikunda Lakes Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS card |
|
Tamang Heritage Trails/Helambu Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS card |
|
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek |
|
NPR 3,000 for KCAP |
|
Lower Dolpo Trek |
|
NPR 3390 for National park permit |
|
Upper Dolpo Trek |
|
NPR 3390 for National Park Permit |
|
Manaslu Circuit Trek |
|
NPR 3,000 for MCAP |
|
Tsum Valley Trek |
|
3,000 for MCAP |
|
Upper Mustang Trek |
|
NPR 3,000 for ACAP |
|
Nar Phu Valley Trek |
|
NPR 3,000 for ACAP |
|
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for TIMS card NPR 3000 for ACAP |
|
Makalu Base Camp Trek |
|
NPR 2,000 for Makalu Rural Municipality Permit |
|
Rolwaling Valley Trek |
|
NPR 3,000 for GCAP |
|
Rolwaling Tashi Laptcha Pass |
|
NPR 3,000 for GCAP |
|
Kanchenjunga Base Camp |
|
NPR 3,000 for Conservation Area Permit |
The cost of accommodation, food, and drinks varies depending upon the trekking region, trekking trails, altitude. It also depends upon what types of accommodation, eateries, and drinks you chose as well.
Some trekking destinations like Everest offer varieties of accommodation (USD 5 per night to USD 300 per night) services while others offer basic teahouses.
Basic to standard accommodations costs around $3 to $5 per room per night. The price increases up to $10 per night in the higher elevations. Food costs around $5 to $7 per item of food.
The cost may increase up to $10 per item of food in the higher elevations. Teahouses in some trails might charge you per bed and might have multiple beds in one room, like in some places along Annapurna Base camp trek and Khopra Ridge trek.
Bottled drinking water can range from $0.5 per bottle. The price may rise to $4 in the higher elevations. Some areas like Annapurna Base camp trek don't allow to sell bottled water, you can buy boiled water in those areas.
If you want to save money, carrying a water filter would be a great idea. As you go above 4000m, it might be necessary that you drink warm water, so buying boiled water is the best idea in high altitude chilly areas.
Trekking with the guides and porters comforts you not only for navigating the journey, choosing the right teahouses, carrying your luggage, getting the various information, and most importantly in case of emergencies.
The cost of a standard, professional, fluent license holder guide costs US$30 to $35per day. Likewise, a porter charges US$ 20 to $25 each day.
You can sometimes also hire a guide-porter (a person who can work as a porter as well as a guide- not perfect as a guide, but a guide-porter helps you carry about 7-8 kgs of your luggage.), the cost for a guide-porter is approximately US$ 25 per day.
This cost of the guide, porter, or guide-porter includes their salary as well as the cost for food, accommodation, and insurance, and even sometimes transportation (depends).
You must have proper clothing and equipment for Trekking in Nepal. Having appropriate gears or not having them is the difference between enjoying yourself and having a miserable time. The equipment list below is a general idea of the personal items you need to consider packing for your Trekking in Nepal.
The personal items can be of individual interest and choice. Moderation to the list can be done according to your specific needs, interests, duration of your entire trip, the season of your journey, budget, etc.
Most Trekking in Nepal proceeds from warm, low altitudes to cold, high altitudes. Trekkers, therefore, ed to be prepared at all times during the trek for changing weather conditions.
A day that starts sunny and clear could become cold and windy as you gain altitude so, it is good to have several layers that can be changed with temperature variations or when you stop for rest during the day.
During the trekking day, you may start walking with a light sweater and tracksuit pants. As the day progresses, you may feel comfortable in T-shirt and shorts, then, later on, you may need to put on the tracksuit, and eventually a down jacket, warm pants, hat, and gloves.
It can rain or snow at any time during the day or trekking season. Remember, your physical comfort and well-being dramatically influences your ability to appreciate the trekking environment. Hopefully, you may not need all your rain or cold weather gear, but you must come prepared for a trekking adventure in Nepal.
Be careful with your selection of personal clothing. You should carefully limit the amount of weight and clothing you bring. (For instance, instead of getting a large container of shampoo, bring a smaller pack.)
If possible, take clothing that is flexible in its uses. On an organized trek, most of your luggage is carried by a porter, but porters are not allowed to have more than 25kgs, so try to keep your luggage less than 13 kgs (one porter is provided between two trekkers unless you ask for a private porter).
To ensure all clothing and equipment is kept dry, line the kit bag with a strong, large plastic bag, and, for added protection, wrap significant items (such as your sleeping bag and down jacket) individually in another plastic bag.
Before your trek departure, your trek guide may check personal equipment to make sure you have enough. Do not risk spoiling your trek or the groups by being thrifty on the equipment list for Trekking in Nepal or clothing selection.
You may wish to leave old clothing (t-shirts, socks, old jumpers, running shoes, etc.) in the country at the end of Trekking in Nepal. Consider donating these items to your porters – they will be very much appreciated.
Kathmandu (Thamel) and Pokhara (Lakeside) are the central touristic hub in Nepal, and they contain a wide range of trekking gear shops for reasonable rates. You can find branded stores of The North Face, Back Diamond, Sherpa, Mountain Hardwear, Black Yak, etc., in Thamel, Kathmandu.
If you are an addicted trekker, it's good to invest in branded trekking gear. But if you only occasionally trek, then the fake brands that are Chinese-made or locally made trekking gears do an excellent job for two to three treks in Nepal.
Suppose you do buy a jacket that is labeled North Face or Patagonia. It's almost guaranteed to be fake unless you are buying it from the actual outlet in Kathmandu. Unfortunately, identifying the differences in the quality of branded items and locally made fake brands is not easy to detect.
You have to check the zippers carefully, stitching strength, dimensions, etc. Anyway, for a fraction of the price you would pay in your home country, you can buy the local items which work okay. You can even do some bargain, and you can get up to 40% discount on the amount the store owner would say.
If you don't go Trekking in the high mountains too often, it parenting the gears make more sense torn jacket, sleeping bag, trekking poles, backpacks, etc. are available for rent for as little as US$1 to $1.5. (the rate might differ according to the quality of the gear). However, it's important to rent from a reliable shop to ensure the equipment is well taken care of and inspected (and washed) after each use.
Informal clothing is all that is required. Light clothing is usually all that will be necessary for Kathmandu for most of the year. However, it will be chilly in the early mornings and evenings during the winter months from December to February. Therefore, a warm fleece or similar jacket will be required.
Your trekking guide might also carry a first aid kit bag during the tour on an organized trek. However, we still recommend you bring your first aid kit as well.
Please Note: Tight fitting, figure-hugging clothing, such as those made with Lycra, can often be offensive to locals, especially to women. If you find these items comfortable as a base layer, please pack something to wear on top of them.
Most long treks in Nepal are physically demanding due to mountainous trails involving a lot of ascents and descents. Two things play a vital role to make your trek in Nepal a successful project- physical fitness and mental determination.
Most of the treks in Nepal are good to go with some training for people with moderate fitness. If you are over 50 or if you have some type of pre-existing medical condition, you must consult your doctor before going on a trek in Nepal.
If you have heart, lung, and blood pressure irregularities or a continued medical condition you should have a check-up and get a medical opinion before booking your trek in Nepal.
Having said that you don't need to panic, I have seen an 84-year-old lady who trekked to Everest Base Camp trek successfully together with her 16-year-old granddaughter.
Most of the elderly people do trekking in Nepal that involves high altitude too very successfully, so age need not be a barrier but the older you are, the more you need to do prior fitness preparation.
You do not officially require any immunizations to enter Nepal. Only because it's better to be safe than sorry, some vaccinations are recommended while you travel to Nepal. It is best to seek medical advice at least six weeks before traveling since some vaccinations require multiple injections over a period of time.
You should always speak with your general physician about any vaccinations or other medicines you are considering taking.
Your GP will have more information about your specific health needs and can make much more specific, reliable recommendations for you.
The main recommended vaccinations before you travel to Nepal or go trekking in Nepal are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Meningitis.
Boosters are also recommended for Tetanus, Polio, Mumps, and Measles. Depending on your travel plans, you may also consider inoculations against Japanese Encephalitis, Hepatitis B, cholera, and Rabies.
Lately, Dengue fever has been a threat in Kathmandu but its active only in monsoon.
While traveling there is always a chance of things going wrong. So, it’s always wise to go on a trip with proper travel insurance covering cancellation, theft, medical issues, etc.
Considering the landscapes, remoteness of the trekking area, potential health risks, and the high cost of medical evacuation, it is wise to travel to Nepal only with adequate health insurance.
For trekking in Nepal, you must buy insurance that covers medical and emergency evacuation up to an altitude of 5000m.
Trekkers' insurance must be done by themselves. The guide and porters are also insured by the trekking agency they work for. So it’s wise to go trekking in Nepal with an agency than with a freelance guide.
If social media and the internet haven’t eroded your patience yet, you might consider going through the following detailed treatment from CIWEC.
Trekking in Nepal is great walking along the mighty mountains and an insight into the lives of people; each moment is precious. Sickness makes it miserable.
Upon arrival, you might feel sick due to a change in time zone and jetlag. It is wise to have an extra day in Kathmandu before finally starting the trek just to give yourself time to adjust to the new situation.
Drinking tap water directly as Nepalese people do is not recommended for foreigners. Only drink boiled or bottled water. Use bottled or filtered water to brush your teeth even.
Diarrhea and food poisoning are the main problems trekkers get during trekking in Nepal. You must not miss antidiarrheal meds in your medicinal kit. You need not stop the trek due to diarrhea. You can wait to see how it goes for a day before taking meds but of course, should not dehydrate yourself.
If you feel hungry, eat, and if you don't then take lots of soup and food that are easy for the stomach. If the diarrhea is still definitely troublesome after a day and you are fairly sure of what type it is then you may want to treat it, do consult with your leader, or take antidiarrheals.
If you have a pre-existing condition such as stomach ulcers, gall bladder problems, previously perforated intestine, etc, be especially careful with self-diagnosis and treatment.
Dehydration is another problem people face while trekking in Nepal. While you trek in lower elevation you sweat a lot so it is important to replace the fluids you lose. Dehydration makes you feel tired and lethargic and can give you a headache.
The symptoms are similar to AMS so the easiest way to avoid confusion is to always keep hydrated. In higher elevations, you might not want to drink the water due to cold but you must drink water, tea, soups to keep yourself hydrated and energetic and to prevent AMS.
Cough attacks you get when you trek for a prolonged period at high altitudes in cold, dry weather. It is popular as Khumbu Cough. It is caused by breathing excess quantities of dry cold air - so much that you partially injure your bronchi.
A cold or infection is the normal cause of this but in this case, the irritant is only air however your body reacts almost identically - quantities of clear or white goo.
Bronchitis- symptoms similar to the Khumbu Cough but instead caused by an infection. Differentiating this from the Khumbu Cough is difficult, but you perhaps experienced a fever and/or some chills. The cough may be more productive. See a physician after the trek.
Another problem while trekking in Nepal is blisters. To prevent it you have to break your trekking boots before using them for the trek. If you develop a blister, you can put protective tape over the top with some cotton wool to protect the blister, and some people even put the tape straight over the blister, with no protection.
Do not cut away the dead blister skin until after a few days when it is dried out and no more use for protecting the delicate skin underneath.
Acute mountain sickness is possible as you ascend above 2500m above sea level. It can affect anyone regardless of age group, fitness level, and prior experiences. As you ride uphill on the higher elevations, the pressure of the air gets thinner complemented with reduced levels of oxygen.
Exclusive of proper acclimatization, your body gets unable to cope with the low level of oxygen and struggles to fulfill the oxygen demand that the body is familiarized with normally ensuing in breathing troubles. This gradually weakens the body, and the state is referred to as the Acute Mountain Sickness.
As the elevation increases, your body adapts to oxygen via breathing deeper and faster way. As it needs more oxygen, red blood cells need to construct more which takes time. Moving upwards without acclimatizing, your body suffers from oxygen deficiency leading to Altitude Sickness, High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE), or Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE).
Below 3000m/10,000ft it is not normally a problem. AMS is caused by going up high too fast and can be fatal if all the warning signals are ignored. Note that it is not the actual altitude, but the speed at which you reach higher altitudes that causes the problems.
The early symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness are headache, fatigue, nausea, sometimes vomiting, giddiness, insomnia, and shortness of breath sometimes. They may appear after 2-12 hours of drastic elevation change. Such symptoms may disappear within 24-48 hours if your body acclimatizes to the environments around you.
Altitude sickness is preventable. Go up slowly, giving your body enough time to adjust. These are the 'safe' rates for the majority of trekkers: spend 2 nights at least between 2500m/6562ft and 3000m/10,000ft before going higher. From 3500m sleep an average of 300m/1000ft higher each night with a rest day on an elevation gain of every 900-1000m/3000ft.
Do not ascend further if you have the symptoms of acute mountain sickness which may worsen the situation. If symptoms don't go away with rest and no elevation gain, you have to start hiking to lower elevation.
If the situation worsens, AMS progresses to the second stage as High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Trekkers feel anxiety, fatigue, confusion, severe headache, blurred vision, etc.
In such circumstances, one immediately should descent in the lower lands.
Developing these symptoms can take your life. As soon as possible, ought to notify your tour leader and need to hike downward immediately.
A severe condition caused by fluid collection in the lungs is High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). It shows serious symptoms as chest tightness or congestion, froth in saliva, quick heartbeat, trouble in breathing, and blood in cough or saliva, etc.
Immediate rescue or evacuation is needed. Give oxygen and air pressure bag if possible. Take a deed without delay because someone’s life depends on it.
The currency of Nepal is different and unique than your local currency. The official currency is Nepali Rupees, NPR, or NRS which is different than other currencies of Asia and the rest continents as Pakastani Rupee, Indian Rupees, Bangladeshi taka, Sri Lankan rupee, Bhutan Ngultrum, Chinese Yen, US Dollar, and Euro.
In Nepal, coins are available in 1, 2, 5, and 10 but are usually less used. The commonly used notes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000. 1000 note is the largest one.
The counting system may differ in Nepal. 100,000 is counted as one lakh, not a hundred thousand. 1,000,000 is counted as ten lakhs instead of a million. Likewise, instead of a hundred million, people count 1 crore and a billion is counted as ten crores.
Money exchange centers are available in the major cities in Nepal as Kathmandu (Thamel), Pokhara (Lake Side area), Chitwan, and Lumbini. A few are available in major trekking routes of the Everest and Annapurna regions.
However, it is highly recommended to exchange and withdraw currency in Kathmandu as they offer better rates and accept all the currencies of the world. Most of the banks now are facilitated with the currency exchanges.
In case you do not feel comfortable changing in the counters, can visit Nepal Rastra Bank, Baluwatar, or Nepal Bank Limited at New Road which serve you exchanging local currency. Always remember to check the exchange rates at the official site of Nepal Rastra Bank for the latest update.
ATM services are available in major cities of Nepal and the major trekking destinations as well. The most frequent are in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most of them are connected with the respective banks and accept Visa, Master Cards mostly.
Standard Chartered, Everest Bank, Nabil Bank & Himalaya Bank offer such services accepting both debit and cards. These days most of them are upgraded and accept cirrus and American Express as well. You will get cash in local currency i.e. Nepalese rupees.
Walking in the higher elevations, you may not find ATM lounges. If available, may be out of work or stock. Trekking in Everest, you shall find ATM facilities up to Namche Bazaar and you will find some lounges at Jomsom for Annapurna and Mustang regions' treks. Although you are not recommended to be dependent upon them.
A landlocked country of South Asia, Nepal lies between two large countries India and China. Because of the landscape, topographies, and terrains of the country, roadways and airways are the only modes of transport in the country.
Different modes of transportation systems as local bus, battery-run three-wheelers; private car, Hiace, taxi, minibusses, domestic flights, and tuk-tuk are easily available throughout Nepal.
According to your budget and preferences, you can choose any of them. It depends upon the destination you choose as well. In the highly elevated lands, you will not find any transportation system as the unavailability of the road system. The most efficient way to travel there around is either regular domestic aircraft or chartered helicopters.
However, the transportation system of Nepal is highly concentrated on its road system. Most of the southern part of the country has a plain area and is connected by roadways.
On a hill, roads are being connected rapidly. According to the Department of Local Infrastructure Development and Agricultural Roads (DoLIDAR), Nepal has 6,683 rural roads, the combined length of which is around 80,000 km. At present, 76 districts headquarter out of 77 have access to roads.
The country has a road density of about 34.41 per 100 sq km, whereas effective population kilometers per 1,000 are 1.91. The national road network in Nepal (excluding all local roads) is worth about NPR 90 billion (USD 900 million), which represents almost 20% of the country’s GNP. These roads comprise a substantial investment, underscoring the need to maintain these roads.
Likewise, there are 43 airports in Nepal including an international airport. A couple of domestic airports are being upgraded as international airports.
Travelers can hire mountain bikes and cycles to roundabout the cities. Plenty of hiring shops are available throughout Pokhara and Kathmandu valley. Apart from them, the major local transport available in Nepal is as follows.
A classic-styled transport system Cycle-rickshaws are common in Kathmandu and Terai region. As the prices are highly negotiable, travelers can visit windy narrow, and crowded streets in an atmospheric way. Two persons can ride in a Cycle-rickshaws which take you to the nearest destinations easily.
In the major cities as Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can find electric and gas-powered clean tempos and petrol minibusses. Tempos have set their fixed routes and drivers pick up you from different stops and drops off you at the desired destinations along the route. You should inform them about your stop and they drive accordingly. This is one of the cheapest ways to travel.
These days taxi is gaining popularity and widely available in every corner of the major cities as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
They are ready to operate long-distance routes as well. Most of them run in meters as well. If the driver refuses to go in the meter, try another one. They are the best way to drive to hotels, airports,s, and even near tourist destinations.
In Kathmandu, there are new motorbike, car ride-hiring apps as Pathao and Tootle which offer you faster, safer and cheaper services.
Different vehicle companies are established to serve tourists at affordable prices. They are neat, clean, fast, and cheaper than the taxies. You can find them with the green number plate.
According to your desired destinations and number of people, they provide the vehicle like a car, jeep, HiAce, or buses. They are the best means to transfer to Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, and other major touristic destinations.
Domestic flights are the best means of transportation especially in the Himalayan sections where roadways are unavailable due to the rough landscapes and difficult topographies.
Buddha Air, Himalaya Airlines, Nepal Airlines, Saurya Airlines, Shree Airlines, Sita Air, Simrik Airlines Summit Air, Yeti Airlines, and Tara Air serve each day offering regular and chartered flights to and from different domestic airports throughout Nepal.
Some charter airlines in Nepal offer helicopter services. They mostly are useful when one needs emergency evacuation in trekking, mountaineering, or traveling.
Air Dynasty, Altitude Air, Fishtail Air Heli Everest, Kailash Helicopter, Makalu Air, Manang Air, Mountain Helicopters, Prabhu Helicopters, Simrik Air are some of them that offer chartered services all over Nepal.
These days technological advancements have created easier environments staying connected in Nepal than before. These days, it doesn’t even face power outage problems in the major cities and most of the trekking trails as well.
Cell phone and internet connection are better even in the remote areas and the teahouses in the trekking trails as well.
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority has set in motion an ambitious plan to provide ‘speedy and reliable’ wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) services at the country's key trekking and pilgrimage destinations.
It is well avowed that the power supply in Nepal is quite stable in recent years. Local people should not face any electricity cut-offs, or load shedding these days. In most of the trekking trails, electricity service is accessible whereas some depend upon solar energy as well.
The Nepal National Electricity Authority has been working hard for a stable electricity supply throughout the country even in all the trekking trails.
Despite all, you are highly recommended to carry power storage devices for charging your electronics as some people in the remoteness are only rely on local solar or hydropower stations, or just a couple of photovoltaic panels on the roof of a lodge.
As trekking and tourism are frequent in the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri regions, the mobile network coverage is in quite good conditions there around. Although they are not able to serve as in the cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, the cell phone reception is getting better each day.
While trekking in the mountains, it is better to use sim cards to stay in touch which is more reliable and reception is more frequent.
As all the networks work in excellent ways in the cities, Mostly, two network operators of Nepal Telecom and Axiata (NCELL) provide sim cards with different services of the internet, make phone calls, and more. The sim cards consist of a particular number starting with +97798…….
By recharging them, you can buy the needed data. In Namaste (Nepal Telecom) you should dial *1415# and in Ncell (Axiata) *17123# to purchase the needed data or voice packs.
It is very easy to buy such sim cards in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and even on the trekking routes. It is better to buy them upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport.
Different shops of Thamel- the tourist area in Kathmandu and Lakeside-Pokhara also make available at the same price. Purchasing them in trekking routes may cost a bit higher.
You need to submit two passports sized photographs and a copy of your passport or valid identity card along with NPR100 to get any sim card that has the main balance of NRP 50 which can be used for phone calls and data packs.
Most of the guesthouses of the trekking trails are connected with internet services like Wi-Fi. The speed of the internet in the Himalayan regions may not be good. You still can call, see the videos or chat with your beloved ones.
Trekking destinations as the Khumbu region, Manaslu Base Camp, and Manaslu Circuit Pass Trekking Trail of the Manaslu Conservation Area of Gorkha district is already covered with wireless internet services of Everest Link. The trekking routes of the Mustang region are also connected with the same service.
Trekkers can share the views of the Himalayas and nature in these kinds of remote, photos, post and short videos of trekking, local attraction, people, culture, nature, and the Himalayas flooded in the social media like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Youtube, and more sitting in the balcony of the teahouses.
Nepal is an independent, indivisible, sovereign, secular, inclusive democratic, socialism-oriented federal democratic republican state that lies between 80 degrees 12′ east longitude and 26 degrees 22′ and 30 degrees 27′ north latitude.
A landlocked country-Nepal is positioned between the Tibet Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China to the north and India to the east, south, and west.
It occupies 147,181sq km of total territories. The east-west length is 885 sq km and its breadth varies from 145 to 241 kilometers north-south.
Yes. All foreign nationals, except Indians, need visas to enter Nepal.
You need a valid passport, two passport size photos, and US$ in cash.
Trekking is defined as a multi-day walking trip and is a slow or arduous journey on foot. It generally passes rural regions, mountain terrains, rugged hills, river gorges, following the established trails.
It is not similar to climbing and mountaineering and does not require any technical skills. Two sorts of trekking are mostly popular in Nepal; teahouse (or lodge) trekking and tented camping trekking.
Teahouses are the local hotels/lodges situated on the way to the trekking destinations. Most of the teahouses are run by family members who offer you accommodation and eateries facilities.
Those teahouses develop their own menus including a large variety of local and western meals at a reasonable price. Throughout the trek, you can find various teashops that facilitate you with bottled water, snacks, and other drinks although the cost may increase with the elevation.
All the necessary items for the trek are carried by the camping crews for Camping Treks. The equipment requires trekking, sleeping, eating, and food preparation as well as all consumable supplies of food, snacks, and fuels.
All the necessary staff as a fully trained guide, cooks, and packs and erect the campsite facilities are provided by the agent company. They also entertain you by singing dancing and playing different games in the evenings that help to relax before the sound sleep.
Trekking in Nepal is adventurous and rather affordable. Almost every activity related to tourism is economic and budget-friendly ones and so does trekking too. A plethora of trekking options are available in Nepal and are from day hikes to extremely difficult ones as well.
But some constituents can influence your trekking cost in Nepal.
Nepal generally is a safe country for travel. Religious harmony, unity in diversity, the existence of multi-ethnic groups in the same community, the existence of hospitable and friendly people, the kind and helpful personality of the citizens make your journey safer.
Concerning trekking, we always point out that there are safety and risk factors that need to be appreciated and planned for before venturing into the remote and high-altitude trekking trails of the Himalaya Mountains.
In rural areas of Nepal rescue services are limited and medical facilities are primitive. Helicopter evacuations are possible but the costs higher. Trekking with travel insurance and sound preparation makes the journey safer and enjoyable.
Trekking in Nepal can be organized all around the year depending upon the region. Nepal witness tremendous dissimilarity in the atmosphere as the altitude differs from 59m above sea level to 8848m.
Generally, there is no absolute best time for everyone; your Himalaya experience will depend on how you feel about crowds, how high you are planning on trekking, and your tolerance for heat, cold, and rain.
Each Himalaya season owns its own pros and cons, and with our handy guide, you should be able to choose the trekking season best for any trekkers so you can get the most out of your trip.
A year is divided into four seasons in Nepal. Autumn (September to December) and spring (March to May) are considered the peak seasons for trekking in the Himalayas. In autumn the atmosphere is generally warm during the daytime and cold during the nighttime.
Due to the clear weather, most of the high peak mountains and green hills are highly visible. There is no chance of any kind of natural disasters like floods, landslides and so on which makes the trek safer. In this autumn season, the major festival of Nepalese Dashain and Tihar is celebrated which makes your trekking more joyful and perfect.
Likewise, spring is another preeminent season of trekking Nepal after winter. This offers an assortment of wild flora blossoming above 3000m which makes higher altitude trekking progressively comfortable and energizing.
The temperature is somewhat warm at lower rises and very moderate at higher altitudes over 4000m, which gives breathtaking and excellent mountain views.
All the people can afford the treks in Nepal regardless of their shapes, sizes, and ages. Trekkers need not be any athlete or marathoner while trekking. Numbers of destinations are available from short and easy to challenging and strenuous where trekkers have a plethora of choices to choose according to their fitness level, budget, and interest.
However, visitors need to walk 5-6 hours in the terrains, river valleys, and remoteness for several days to complete the journey successfully. Moreover, one needs psychological determination along with physical strength for any trek in Nepal.
There are two ways to trek in Nepal, with or without a guide, and there are good and bad things about both options.
There is no requirement to have a guide when you trek, except in certain regions as Inner Dolpo, Kanchenjunga Manaslu, and Upper Mustang which are more remote and thrilling than the rest of the destinations.
Most of a lot of well-known hiking trails in the Himalayas such as Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp trek, and Annapurna Circuit are accessible to navigate through your phone, map, etc.
Planning to trek without a guide is usually best to stick to the more popular trekking trails, which have just a single path and has a lot of teahouses along the entire route.
However, Taking a Hiring a guide for trekking is not just navigating the route. Here is the list, why it is worth hiring a professional Guide for any treks in Nepal.
Hiring a porter is not obligatory but highly recommended. Trekkers will be benefitted in various ways by hiring porter crews as they carry all your duffle bags, you can complete your excursion comfortably.
Carrying all your backpack may add extra burden upon you and walking with heavyweight is an extreme challenge in the rough terrains and narrow paths of Himalayan foothills. Trekking with porters may increase your expense but I am sure that it will make your journey awesome.
Concerning the topographies, terrains, and health concerns, it would extremely be unwise to travel to Nepal without Health Insurance. Choose a policy that covers medical and emergency repatriation, including helicopter evacuation.
Before travel, read the small print of your policy. Certain activities may be classified as ‘adventure’ or ‘extreme sports’ and these may require additional cover. You'd better choose a policy that covers you for activities above 4000m.
Yes, our organization employs a pick-up facility as a complementary policy. Upon your arrival, one of our representatives picks you up from the airport.
You can recognize us immediately as we await you to display our company’s name card. After completing the vacation, we will drop you back at the Airport.
The level of arduousness depends upon the region you trek, the season you choose for the trek, and the duration of the trek. Shorter and lower elevated journeys are easier than those of long and highly elevated treks.
As one should physically and mentally prepared, one needs to follow important trekking protocols during the journey.
Acclimatize properly during treks with high climbs. Basic exercise of walking, running and similar activities is recommended at least a week before your trekking starts.
Amid others, the towering Himalayas are the key reason for visiting Nepal to many travelers' minds. The entire northern borders stretch of the Himalayan battlements. 8 of the 14 tallest peaks situate in Nepal are more than just physically astonishing.
The cultures of highland-dwelling Nepalese peoples are rich and fascinating, and the relaxed, companionable spirit of trekking life is an attraction in itself.
It is true that in some areas, the Himalayas are wild and barely populated. Still, in most, there is an incredible diversity of cultures that have adapted to survive in an environment that can be exceptionally hostile as well as incredibly beautiful.
So, a chiliad of explorers lands this country each year for diverse purposes, including trekking, safaris, adventurous activities, religious tours, and more.
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