If you are planning to visit Nepal for Trekking and it’s your first time, here are some helpful tips for first-time trekkers—a complete guide to trekking in Nepal. These tips are useful for all trekkers coming from around the world.
Nepal is one of the best countries
for trekking, offering not only stunning Himalayan landscapes but also a
variety of other adventure activities such as climbing, cultural tours, jungle
safaris, white-water rafting, paragliding, and more. These exciting experiences
attract thousands of trekkers and adventure seekers each year.
The country boasts a diverse range
of trekking routes, from the world-famous Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang Regions to the less traveled but equally rewarding trails of Manaslu,
Kanchenjunga, Upper Dolpo, and Upper Mustang.
Getting There in Nepal
Nepal is a landlocked Himalayan nation situated between the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. It is home to eight of the world's ten highest mountains, including Mount Everest, the tallest peak on Earth. For those traveling to Nepal by land, there are several entry points from both India and China. Tourist visas for Nepal are available on arrival at all major land border crossings with India and China.
For those arriving by air, numerous
international airlines offer nonstop and connecting flights to Nepal. Notable
airlines include Nepal Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Thai Airways, Gulf Air,
Qatar Airways, Jet Airways, Air India, Biman Bangladesh, Lufthansa, Oman Air,
FlyDubai, Air Arabia, and Air China.
We recommend checking your flight
details carefully and contacting us before your arrival in Nepal for trekking
arrangements. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, obtaining
a tourist visa on arrival is a straightforward and hassle-free process.
Visa and passport information
All foreign visitors to Nepal,
except Indian passport holders, are required to obtain a visa. To apply for a tourist visa, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date
of entry.
Tourist visas are available on
arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, as well as at several
land border entry points with India and China. The on-arrival visa process is
generally quick and straightforward, although you may experience some queues
during the peak tourist season. To avoid waiting in line, you also have the
option of obtaining a visa in advance from a Nepalese diplomatic mission abroad.
Please note that if you choose this option, you must enter Nepal within six
months of the visa's issuance date. Your total stay in Nepal will be counted
from the date of your entry.
If you are visiting Nepal for
purposes other than tourism—such as business, study, volunteer work, or
official visits—you must first enter on a tourist visa and then apply to change
the visa category at the Department of Immigration by submitting the necessary
documents.
The current visa fee for a 30-day
stay is USD 50. Please bring cash in USD, EUR, or GBP to pay the visa fee, as
Nepali Rupees are not accepted at immigration.
Tips for a First Time Trekker in Nepal
If you are planning to go trekking,
climbing, or engage in other tourism-related activities in Nepal for the first
time, careful preparation is essential to ensure a hassle-free
experience—otherwise, you may miss out on many incredible things! Nepal is not
only a beautiful trekking destination but also offers a breathtaking and
unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting imprint on your mind.
Imagining the land of the Himalayas
is never enough—you have to experience this natural paradise in real life.
Nepal is an amazing country, rich in beauty, identity, and cultural values.
From the remote corners of the Himalayas to the diverse landscapes, the cultural
richness shines everywhere, showcasing its unique charm.
Trekking in Nepal is truly a
remarkable experience you should not miss. Visiting ancient Himalayan villages
makes you feel as though you're walking on Heaven's trail. You'll trek along
rivers, through stunning valleys, breathe fresh mountain air, and explore
diverse terrains. You’ll find yourself on rocky trails through alpine forests
and past green yak and sheep pastures. Trekking in Nepal feels like a
miracle—one that is profoundly moving and unforgettable.
You’ll also witness majestic peaks,
including the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest, which draws adventurers
from across the globe with its awe-inspiring beauty. But Nepal offers more than
mountains—it’s a place where traditional tea houses, ancient monasteries, rich
culture, and mouthwatering cuisine come together to create a truly unique
experience.
Trekking is the best way to explore
these wonders, but there are a few important things to know before setting off
on your adventure. Let me guide you through everything you need to know before
trekking in Nepal.
Money exchange rate and prices
Foreign travelers can conveniently
withdraw Nepali currency from ATMs using Visa, MasterCard, or other debit
cards. Additionally, most major foreign currencies—such as USD, Euro, Pound
Sterling, Chinese Yuan, Swiss Franc, Singapore Dollar, Australian Dollar, and
Canadian Dollar—can be exchanged in Nepal.
If you're looking for the best
foreign exchange rates and locations, you can easily convert your currency at
local banks or authorized money exchange centers in popular tourist
destinations like Kathmandu and Pokhara. The exchange rates are
regulated by the Nepal Rastra Bank, the central bank of Nepal, ensuring
consistency across licensed facilities.
For convenience, you may also exchange
smaller amounts at hotels, although rates may vary. Please note: Nepali
banks do not accept old, torn, or dirty banknotes, so it is advisable to
bring clean, crisp bills.
In Nepal, cash is generally
preferred, even in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. For those using
international debit or credit cards, ATMs are widely available in main cities
and tourist areas. Most ATMs operate 24/7, with a maximum withdrawal
limit typically between NPR 30,000 to 35,000 per transaction, and a
processing fee of around NPR 500.
Before starting your trek, it is essential
to exchange your currency in Kathmandu or Pokhara, as most trekking regions
do not offer international money exchange services. You should also consult
with your trekking operator or guide in advance to estimate how much
money you'll need during your trek, as ATMs may not be available along remote
trails.
Safety and security
When traveling in Nepal, safety
is one of the most important aspects to consider, especially for those
embarking on popular trekking adventures such as the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna
Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, or engaging in peak climbing like Island Peak. These high-altitude adventures demand physical preparedness and
safety awareness.
At our company, your safety is our top
priority, and we are committed to providing exceptional service to
all our valued clients. Our professional guides are highly trained,
licensed, and experienced in trekking in Nepal’s challenging terrains. They
also have comprehensive knowledge of first aid and are equipped to respond
effectively to any medical issues that may arise during the trek.
Trekking in Nepal often involves
hiking above 4,000 meters, where altitude-related health risks such as Acute
Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur. Our guides are trained to monitor symptoms,
advise on appropriate medications, and make informed decisions about continuing
or modifying the trek, including organizing emergency evacuations if
necessary.
Caution is also required while
walking on narrow trails, particularly those shared with porters,
yaks, mules, and jokpe (yak-cow hybrids), especially during the peak
trekking seasons. When you encounter these animals on bridges or narrow
paths, always stay on the mountain side (the inner edge of the
trail) to avoid the risk of being pushed off the edge.
By trekking with experienced guides
and staying aware of your surroundings, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable
journey through the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes of Nepal.
Drink a Safe drinking water
To maintain a healthy body while
traveling in the Nepal Himalayas, travelers need to stay hydrated, and clean
water is essential. Contaminated water is one of the main reasons trekkers fall
ill and experience diarrhea, which can disrupt the entire Himalayan journey.
Almost everywhere along the trekking routes in Nepal, especially on tea house
treks, bottled water is available, except during camping treks. However,
bottled water becomes increasingly expensive at higher altitudes.
Therefore, we highly recommend that
all trekkers bring high-quality reusable water bottles suitable for boiling
water, along with water purification tablets or filter bottles. Plastic bottles
are harmful to the environment, so using reusable bottles helps protect the
mountains. If you are concerned about finding places to refill your water
bottles, don't worry — water sources such as taps, rivers, streams, and lodge
supplies are easy to locate throughout the trekking regions of Nepal.
Travel insurance and insurance policy
The difficulty levels of trekking
routes in Nepal range from easy to challenging due to the high altitude, rugged
terrain, varying trek durations and rapidly changing weather conditions in the
Himalayas. Therefore, there is always a risk of altitude-related illnesses and
potential mishaps. Travel insurance is highly recommended for all trekkers
planning to trek in Nepal.
Trekking in the Nepalese Himalayas
requires practical experience at high altitudes, often above four thousand
meters, making travel insurance essential. In the event of an accident that requires
medical attention or emergency evacuation, the cost of transportation and
treatment can be substantial. Your insurance must cover air ambulance services,
medical expenses, and other potential travel-related risks such as delayed
flights, and lost, stolen, or damaged baggage.
Your insurance policy should cover
your entire itinerary in Nepal, including treks that reach elevations above
five thousand five hundred meters, or the specific trekking route you choose.
If not, you will be responsible for any unexpected expenses that may arise
during your journey.
As part of the booking process for
trekking and climbing adventures in Nepal, all trekkers are required to submit
a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance certificate to High Pass
Adventure.
How to Fit for Trekking in Nepal
The key to successful trekking
training is consistency and persistence. A step-by-step approach to training
over the course of a month will help prepare you for your chosen trek in Nepal.
According to feedback from past trekkers, ninety percent of those who trained
with High Pass Adventure felt fit enough for their trek. However, some trekkers
mentioned they were only just fit enough and wished they had done more exercise
before the trek. Training that focuses on walking with a backpack, increasing
ascents and descents, short runs (like jogging), and strength exercises can be
particularly beneficial for trekking in the Nepal Himalayas.
We strongly recommend incorporating
a variety of exercises into your training routine to prepare for your trek, and
make regular physical activities part of your daily life to stay active. It is
especially important to include outdoor trekking and climbing exercises in your
training regimen. If you come from a flat area, start walking on flat terrain,
but it’s also helpful to practice walking with a backpack weighing between five
to fifteen kilograms. This type of training will help you become well-prepared
and ensure an unforgettable trekking experience in Nepal.
Trekking in Nepal can vary greatly
in terms of daily duration, ascent, descent, and altitude. It’s also important
to consider the trekking packing list, food, and hydration, all of which play
crucial roles during training. By preparing in advance, you can avoid common
issues like fatigue, blisters, digestion problems, or sore legs and shoulders
after the first day of trekking.
Best Time to Trekking in Nepal
The first
priority when planning your trek is to determine the date and gather the
necessary trekking gear. Trekking in Nepal is possible year-round, but we
recommend focusing on the best trekking destinations, especially for first-time
trekkers. The two main trekking seasons in Nepal are the Autumn Trekking Season
(September to November) and the Spring Trekking Season (March to May). It is
important to consider the right time for trekking in Nepal, and these two
seasons are considered the best times for trekking in the region.
Autumn season Trekking in Nepal (September, October, November)
Autumn is
considered the best time of the year for trekking in Nepal and is also known as
the post-monsoon period, as rainfall is minimal during this season. However,
it's important to be cautious, as light rainfall can still occur in September.
The temperature and weather are generally moderate and favorable for trekking.
Daytime temperatures typically range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, and you
will notice a decrease in temperature as you ascend to higher altitudes. Nights
can be colder, but with proper warm gear, you will stay comfortable. Overall,
autumn provides ideal weather and temperatures for trekking in Nepal.
Spring Season trekking in Nepal (March, April, May)
Spring is the
second-best time of the year for trekking in Nepal. The natural beauty during
this season is at its peak, as it is considered the pre-monsoon period when
nature reveals its hidden charm. The landscape regenerates its lost vibrancy,
and you’ll be surrounded by blooming rhododendron flowers while trekking in the
Nepal Himalayas. The number of trekkers during spring is increasing due to the
favorable weather, nature, and temperatures. Daytime temperatures typically
range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. While rainfall is generally uncommon,
there may be occasional rain in mid-May, but with proper rain gear, you'll stay
comfortable.
Off-season Trekking in Nepal (winter and summer)
Off-season treks in Nepal occur
during the winter and monsoon seasons. Trekking during these times is less
popular compared to the autumn and spring seasons. In the winter, temperatures
in regions like Everest can drop below freezing, and the number of trekkers is
significantly lower due to the cold. Many lodges and guesthouses remain closed,
making it difficult to find accommodation. Walking on snow can also be
challenging.
Similarly, the monsoon season, which
spans from June to August, follows the spring season. During this time, the
Everest region experiences heavy rainfall. The trekking trails become muddy,
wet, and slippery, making walking difficult. As a result, very few trekkers
venture to Nepal during the monsoon and winter seasons.
Trekking on Your Own or With a Guide
After you've set the date and time
for your trek in Nepal, the next step is to consider the best time and weather
for your solo trek or guided trek. However, hiring a guide can be more beneficial
as it offers the opportunity to learn more about nature and local culture. An
experienced trekking guide can also help you interact with local people and
connect with other trekkers along the way, making your trip more enjoyable and
rewarding.
Trained trekkers who are preparing
for treks along famous routes of easy to moderate difficulty may do just fine
without a guide. However, if you're new to trekking and planning to trek solo in Nepal, hiring a guide would greatly benefit you.
Famous trekking trails in the
Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions attract trekkers of various experience
levels, and some routes may not require a guide. You’ll need to plan your
itinerary carefully, buy the necessary permits, and carry a trekking map and a
comprehensive guidebook to assist you during your solo trek in Nepal.
On the other hand, if you're
planning to trek in restricted areas like the Kanchenjunga Trek, Manaslu
Region, Nar Phu Valley Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek, and a few
others, hiring a trained guide is mandatory, as trekking in these areas without
a guide is not permitted.
Solo or Group Trekking in Nepal
Generally, group treks are
beneficial because the cost is usually lower, and the experience is more
enjoyable. Trekking with a group allows you to share nature and culture with
others, learn new things, and create lasting memories together. On the other
hand, solo trekking may feel cheaper at first, but the costs can increase due
to the difficulty of managing everything on your own. It can also lead to
feelings of loneliness and boredom, making the trek less enjoyable.
Hiring a Guide or a Porter for Trekking in Nepal
We strongly recommend hiring a guide and porter for your trek in the Nepal Himalayas. A guide will be with you
throughout the trip, helping you navigate easier routes and assisting with
communication with local people. This is the best way to learn more about
nature and culture during your trek. Additionally, hiring a porter is a great
option as they will carry your bags and reduce the burden on you, making the
trek more relaxed and enjoyable.
Overall, hiring both a guide and
porter is the best choice for a stress-free trekking experience. Before booking
your trekking package, let us clarify the costs for the guide, porter, or full
board package. We will arrange your trip at a reasonable or budget-friendly
cost, depending on your requirements.
If you're concerned about the cost
of hiring a guide or porter, the rates can vary depending on the trekking
route. Hiring a guide will typically cost around $25 to $30 per day, while a
porter will cost about $20 to $25 per day. These costs include accommodation,
food, daily salary, and trekking insurance for the duration of the trek.
Teahouse Trekking in Nepal
The term "teahouse" can be
confusing for trekkers from abroad, as it is often understood as a
"hotel" or "lodge," where people eat and sleep during their
trek in Nepal. Today, many local hotel businesses are run by educated and
knowledgeable people, and they clarify that "teahouse" refers to
accommodations and meals. Tea house trekking means you will spend the night and
have meals at these teahouses during your trek in the Nepal Himalayas.
If you choose a teahouse trek in
Nepal, these teahouses will provide services such as accommodation, food,
showers, and even internet facilities, although they tend to be more basic
compared to standard hotels. In essence, teahouse trekking is equivalent to
lodge trekking.
Teahouse trekking routes are
available in most trekking areas of Nepal, with the Everest, Langtang, Manaslu,
and Annapurna regions being the most popular for teahouse trekking. These
regions offer good accommodation and food, as confirmed by past trekkers and
locals. Many trekking agencies offer teahouse treks, but we provide the best
services at budget-friendly costs, with professional, English-speaking local
guides.
In the past, trekkers used to do
camping treks, carrying supplies such as tents, cooking utensils, cooking fuel,
food, and other equipment. However, for teahouse trekking in Nepal, you only
need to carry personal trekking gear and a sleeping bag. The itinerary can be
adjusted depending on the region, culture, scenery, and the opportunity to
experience the local lifestyle and culture.
The cost of staying in teahouses
varies based on the region, remoteness, altitude, and services offered.
Tentative costs range from $5 to $15 USD per night, depending on the area and
the quality of services. Most teahouses are family-owned, providing a special
opportunity to interact with local people and observe their culture.
