What’s it like trekking in Nepal?

Aside from breathtaking scenery, travellers to Nepal can experience unique Nepali culture along the way. Days are filled with walking for the sheer pleasure of it, past colourful prayer wheels and across swing bridges straight out of an Indiana Jones movie, while evenings are rewarded with hot food and conversation with like-minded people around the dining-room fire.

The heady mix of natural beauty, fascinating culture and a personal sense of achievement, as well as warm Nepalese hospitality, makes the trek in Nepal one of the world’s most unforgettable.

The trekking involves 4 – 8 hours hiking per day, including a stop for the lunch. The trail varies from easy hiking at lower elevations to strenuous walking over 5000 metres in the Himalayas.

Trekking schedules are designed so that the walk is enjoyable and safe. The day begins early at around 6.30 in morning with a cup of tea. After breakfast, you are on the trail followed by a stoppage for lunch till you reach the next camp or teahouse by 4 pm. You can opt to relax, read, write a diary, explore the surrounding area and villages or sit and chat with staff and local people or fellow trekkers. Dinner is normally served around 7.00 pm.
It’s possible to trek in Nepal  throughout the year, whereas climbing is slightly more seasonal.

When’s the best time to trek in Nepal?

There are four seasons in Nepal and each has its distinct features.

Spring (March-May):

The temperature is mild at lower elevations and moderate or cool at higher elevations. The view of the majestic Himalayan range is breathtaking; however there may be sporadic snowfall at high altitudes.  Spring is one of the best seasons for trekking and climbing.

Summer (Jun-Aug): 

Trekking in the summer or the monsoon period will be affected by rain, but could be a boon for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in rain-shadow regions (places that are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. Rain isn’t constant in these months; but it is certain and regular.

Autumn (Sept-Nov): 

This season is considered the best time for trekking in Nepal, offering excellent weather and mesmerizing mountain views. Moderate temperature and clear sky make this a great time to do any of our treks or climbs.

Winter (Dec-Feb): 

Winter is also good for trekking, the only issue naturally being the cold.

There is occasional snowfall at higher elevations and it gets colder at night, but the days are clear with blue sky and relatively few trekkers on the trail. However you need to be selective in choosing winter trekking routes,  as climbing and crossing high passes won’t be an ideal option. Treks like Everest base camp, Annapurna Sanctuary, etc can be done even in winter and as they are well provided with tea houses and logistics these are good options for winter treks.

Who leads the trip and are they trained and experienced?

Climb High, being a professionally managed trekking and climbing company based in Nepal, has a policy of employing competent Local Trekking Group Leaders and Guides, who care for the environment and know Nepal intimately. They are fluent in English and have undergone extensive Trek Leader and Guide courses, wilderness first aid, mountaineering and eco-trekking training to ensure that they are fully competent in all aspects of trekking, climbing, nature and conservation, first aid and high altitude medicine.

Accommodation and Meals

We book your hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a bed and breakfast plan. However, depending on your trek, you’ll either stay in teahouses or tents whilst on the trek.

All accommodation during the trek is on a twin sharing basis. Single rooms can be made available on request and by paying a supplement.

Meals

During the trek, you can choose from typical Nepali food and different ethnic cuisines as well as all types of international cuisine. Cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. Lunch will be along the trek whereas dinner and breakfast will be served at the tea house where you spend the night.

On camping expeditions, our cook will cater – providing fresh meals.

To start the day, breakfast will consist of porridge, muesli, cereal, boiled eggs or scrambled eggs with bread. Lunch is generally salad, vegetable, pasta and traditional breads. Dinner will consist of soup, vegetable, meat, rice and pasta dishes and a dessert. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate will be provided at all meals.

Boiled water

Boiled water for drinking will be provided for during the meals; you can also fill up your own bottle at any time.

Please note:

At high altitudes when the air pressure is low, water will boil at a much lower temperature than 100oC. So to make it absolutely safe for drinking, it is boiled for longer.

Other

How early do I need to book the trip?

The earlier the better. It gives us time to arrange the logistics for your trip.

What insurance do I need?

You need general travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance, as well as rescue insurance. Make sure it covers you for trekking or climbing, depending on what trip you have booked, and that it covers you for helicopter evacuation too.

How fit do I need to be?

Though physical fitness is an important part of any outdoor activity, one you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy trekking in Nepal. Most people of good fitness for their age can complete the trek.

Those trekking for the first time are usually concerned that they won’t keep up with the pace, but what’s required is a steady pace.

Are there any hidden costs?

We will not charge for any overhead expenses. There will be no hidden or extra costs. This means we can still offer top quality service and facilities at a competitive price to exceed your expectations. The trip cost includes your accommodation, local flight, private transportation, climb and trek permit, National park or conservation fees to all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while on trek - each trek page has a list of exactly what’s included and not included so please check the ‘includes and excludes’ section.

In general trekking trips in Nepal have a standard format - meals in Kathmandu aren’t included in costs, but meals on the trek are. Drinks aren’t included anywhere.

The only thing all trekkers are asked for is a tip for the Nepali staff at the end of the trek - everyone chips in to a pot which is distributed by the local trip organiser or Sirdar. This could be anything from $20 to $100 or more depending on the length of the trip, but is entirely at your discretion and confidential. This happens on every trip in Nepal, regardless of the operator.