Trekking Nepal: How To Make The Most Of Your Trek In Nepal

Nepal is a very diverse country with a multitude of cultures, landscapes and levels of remoteness. Often “trekking in Nepal” is mentioned as a single concept, but there are many different trekking areas, each with their own characteristics. The entire northern border of Nepal is essentially the heart of the Himalayas, with seven of the fourteen 8000m+ peaks towering high above the valleys and glaciers. With all these choices, how do you channel down your perfect trek? The first thing to consider is the style of trekking. If you’re open to camping you can go anywhere, from the Far West of Nepal, Inner Dolpo or the Kangchenjunga region. Obviously camping is less comfortable, but it can take you to extremely remote mountain areas. The most common style of trekking is tea house trekking. Each night you stay in a local mountain guest house where you sleep in a bed, hot meals are served and you can hang out with other trekkers by the fire in the communal space. The most popular and accessible trekking routes in Nepal all have tea houses along the route, and at Bookatrekking.com this is the style of trekking we focus on. Below we’ll delve a little deeper into the regions where we offer multi-day trekking trips.

The Everest Region is one of the most famous trekking destinations in the world, with the trek to Everest Base Camp as the star of the show. How did these mountains become so popular? Well, the quick answer is that this is where the highest point on Earth is located, Mount Everest (8848 meters above sea level). The long answer? The Everest area, also called the Solukhumbu District, is simply one of the most spectacular mountain sceneries on the planet. Besides the 8000 meter peaks there are a number of peaks that are often ranked in the lists of the most beautiful mountains, notably Ama Dablam and Cholatse. Another reason why trekkers flock to the region is that there is a vast network of trails to access the various valleys, peaks and mountain passes. Adding to this you can find the best facilities of any trekking area in Nepal, with 4G all the way to Everest Base Camp and well-equipped tea houses.

With the choice of a dozen trekking options, which trek to choose? There is something for every level and timeframe. An easy, quick hike to see Everest? The 5-day Everest View trek covers this. Trekking to the world’s highest campsite at the foot of Mount Everest? There are several ways to do this, including taking a helicopter back. And if you want to avoid the crowds? The Gokyo Valley offers otherworldly trekking and somehow not many people visit this off-the-beaten path trekking route. Finally, if you’re up for an epic adventure, you can climb a peak of over 6000 meters like Island Peak and Mera Peak.

The Annapurna Region is one of the first trekking areas in Nepal that opened up to foreigners in the 1970’s. Intrepid trekkers started to explore the old trading routes between Tibet and Nepal and discovered multiple mountain passes that could be used on foot. The focal point of the trekking routes were and still are the bulk of the Annapurna Massif. Accumulating to a dazzling altitude of 8091 meters, the Annapurnas has 13 peaks of over 7000 meters.

There are two major trekking routes that are among the most popular in Nepal. First there’s the Annapurna Circuit. As the name suggests it’s a circular route around the Annapurna mountain range. It’s an incredibly diverse route, starting in the foothills not far from the city of Pokhara. It passes dense forests, high alpine and desert-like terrain. Gaining almost 5000 meters of elevation it reaches its highest point on the Thorung La, with an altitude of 5416m one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The trek to Annapurna Base Camp (also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary) is different in character. The route passes the famous view point on Poon Hill and takes you very close to the ultra-high peaks of the Annapurnas. There’s a guesthouse at ABC which possibly is the most spectacular location for an accommodation in Nepal.

For those with less time can trek to Poon Hill for one of the best mountain views Nepal has to offer. And the Mardi Himal trek, a little off-the-beaten-path, can take you close to one of Nepal's most beautiful mountains, Machhapuchare.

The Langtang region is in Kathmandu’s backyard, just a hundred kilometers north on the border with Tibet. It is a bit of an underdog as a Nepal trekking destination, being overshadowed by the Annapurna and Everest regions. But there are good reasons to choose the Langtang Valley trek over the other Nepal hiking areas. It’s the quickest way to experience the proper Himalayas, both culturally and landscapes. You can reach altitudes of almost 5000 meters on the Tsergo Ri, with views across peaks that reach over 7000 meters. The remote, unspoilt mountain villages like Kyanjin Gompa, allow you to immerse yourself into the local mountain culture. So, if you’re searching for a quick mountain adventure in Nepal that captures the essence of trekking in this fascinating country, the Langtang Valley may be the perfect Himalayan escape for you.

There are several reasons to go trekking in Nepal with a guide. The first reason is an authoritative reason. From April 2023 you are obliged to hire a guide for your Nepal trek by law. There is no way around it. Now that we've got that out of the way, we’ll give you a few better reasons to be accompanied by a hiking guide.

Nearly every Nepali trekking guide speaks English. They are a wealth of knowledge and it’s probably the best way to get to know the local culture. Guides make it easier to communicate with the porters, tea house hosts and villagers along the way. It definitely helps understanding the country better. A trekking guide in Nepal can only operate after completing an extensive training program. This includes safety procedures, bridging the cultural gaps and getting to know the trekking routes really well. Once certified, a guide can start taking people on the easier routes and progress to harder routes when they have gained experience. Your guide makes sure you stay safe and comfortable in the mountains. Finally, you provide jobs. Trekking and climbing is one of the main sources of income in Nepal. By hiring a guide (and porters) you contribute to the local economy and in essence a better life, especially for those in remote mountain areas with no other opportunities.

At Bookatrekking.com we work with the best guides in the business and make sure they get a fair wage and benefits.

Given the enormous variety in trekking options, there is no one answer to the question whether trekking in Nepal is difficult. Take the Great Himalaya Trail, a 1700 kilometer traverse of the Nepali Himalayas. This route involves crossing passes of over 6000 meters in some of the most remote areas of Nepal. On the other side of the difficulty spectrum you’ve got short treks in the foothills of the Himalayas, allowing you amazing views without having to venture deep into the mountains. At Bookatrekking.com we organize Nepal treks that are suitable for trekkers with a decent fitness level and a sense of adventure. Apart from our climbs up Mera Peak and Island Peak, our trekking adventures pose no technical difficulties and can be done by anyone. But this doesn’t mean it’s easy! On some of the treks you scale mountain passes of well over 5000 meters. Even on the shorter hikes you may tackle lots of vertical gain and loss, which can be tough on the knees. Combine this with cold conditions (maybe even snow) and basic accommodation, you may be out of your comfort zone. Below we created an overview of our treks showing how strenuous each of our treks are.

As a country, Nepal is a safe country to travel through. There are some elements of risk a traveler should be aware of. First of all, road safety. Traffic can be chaotic and dangerous driving is happening all over the country. Fatality rates are some of the highest in the region, partly due to the nature of the (mountain) roads. To reach the start of your trek you will have to take a car or bus at some point. If you feel unsafe because of the style of driving, it’s ok to tell your driver. Second, safety while trekking. Mountains are an ever changing environment in terms of terrain, weather and altitude. Some treks are in very remote areas while other routes are relatively close to a road or airfield. The treks that we offer at Bookatrekking.com are generally not technical and pose no immediate danger. However, unforeseen events can happen. A bad storm can hit the mountains, landslides do occur (especially after heavy rains) and the high altitude of some treks can be a health hazard. While some risks cannot be ruled out, our team on the ground knows how to minimize those risks and what to do if the safety and security situation is compromised.

Training for a hiking trip in Nepal requires a combination of physical conditioning, mental preparation, and skill-building. Here's a few training tips to help you prepare:

Cardiovascular Fitness

Hiking in Nepal often involves long hours of walking at high altitudes. Focus on activities that improve cardiovascular endurance, such as walking, running, cycling, or swimming. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts over time.

Strength Training

Strengthening your leg muscles, core, and upper body will help you tackle steep ascents, uneven terrain, and carry your backpack comfortably. Include exercises like squats, lunges, calf raises, planks, and upper body exercises such as push-ups and pull-ups in your routine.

Hiking Practice

If possible, train by hiking on trails with similar terrain and elevation gain as those in Nepal. Start with shorter hikes and gradually increase the distance and elevation as your fitness improves. Practice carrying a backpack with the weight you plan to carry during your trek.

Flexibility and Balance

Yoga or Pilates can improve your flexibility, balance, and stability, which are essential for navigating challenging terrain. Incorporate stretching exercises into your routine to prevent injuries and improve overall mobility.

Mental Preparation

Hiking in Nepal can be physically demanding and mentally challenging, especially during long days or adverse weather conditions. Develop mental resilience by practicing mindfulness, visualization, and positive self-talk. Familiarize yourself with potential challenges and prepare contingency plans.

Nutrition and Hydration

Maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, and hydration to fuel your training and support recovery. Practice eating and drinking strategies that work best for you during long hikes.

Gear Familiarization

Ensure you're familiar with all the gear you'll be using during your trek, including hiking boots, backpack, clothing layers, trekking poles, and camping equipment. Test your gear beforehand to identify any issues and make necessary adjustments.

Medical Preparation

Consult with a healthcare professional before your trip, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Pack a basic first aid kit and medications for common ailments such as altitude sickness, blisters, and gastrointestinal issues.

Remember to listen to your body during training and adjust your routine as needed to prevent overtraining or injury. By following a structured training plan and adequately preparing both physically and mentally, you'll be better equipped to tackle the challenges of hiking in Nepal and fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and unique culture it offers.

Staying healthy is a key factor for a successful trekking trip. This is easier said than done, but you can minimize the risk of getting sick. Before you go make sure you see your GP or a specialized travel doctor to advise you on immunizations. While you’re at it, you could also ask for advice regarding antibiotics and preventative medicine for altitude sickness, such as Diamox (Acetazolamide). You can get these medicines over the counter in Nepal, but be aware that fake medicines are being sold here. Contaminated water is often the cause of many illnesses in countries like Nepal. Do not drink the tap water, as it is unsafe to drink in Nepal. During the trek the local crew will boil water for drinking. This is safe to drink. You may want to bring purifying tablets or a water filter. The water sometimes tastes a little smoky as it is boiled on a wood fire. If you filter yourself you are in control of the taste. Before you eat anything, wash your hands and preferably use hand sanitizers. Make sure you clip your nails so dirt doesn’t get underneath them.

Altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a condition that occurs at higher altitudes due to the reduced oxygen levels in the air. This is very relevant to trekking in Nepal. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, lack of appetite and shortness of breath. AMS can develop in the severe (and potentially deadly) conditions High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). The only way to get better is to descend immediately. Prevention is key and there are ways to reduce the risk of AMS. The most crucial measure is to make sure you don’t ascend too quickly above altitudes above 2400 meters. Take time to acclimatize and rest when you can. Also you need to make sure you drink enough fluids and eat a healthy diet. When you’re in a group, look after each other. For an in-depth article, read our blog post on altitude sickness.

There are several things to consider when you plan a trekking trip in Nepal. An important one is when you plan your trek. There are two distinct trekking seasons in Nepal, the Northern Hemisphere spring and autumn. The weather is pleasant, views are great and the trails are in good condition. The summer months are less ideal. This is monsoon season and there will be lots of rainfall, with at times damaging consequences for the trails and the approach routes to the treks. Often the mountains are shrouded in clouds. Winter can be good, but be prepared for bitterly cold weather and snow on the trails. It’s much harder than the other seasons for this reason, but you’ll have the trekking routes to yourself. Read more about the seasons in Nepal in our separate blog post. If you go trekking with us, you will stay in local tea houses along the route. These are small, locally owned guest houses in the mountains. They are simple but cozy and give you a real sense of what living in a place like this is like. Local Nepali meals are served (mostly Dal Bhat!) and you can enjoy the warmth of the common room with other trekkers.

Trekking in Nepal means for most of the trekking areas you require a permit. This is in most cases a TIMS permit (Trekking Information Management System). Sometimes you need to get a conservation permit like in the Annapurna region. In other areas you may need to pay a national park fee, such as the Everest and Langtang regions. Finally, in places like Upper Mustang and the Manaslu Circuit you will have to apply for a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). We can arrange all these permits for you. Finally, what to bring on your trek? Some key items to bring are a breathable rain jacket (with a Gore Tex lining for example). Obviously you need to choose your footwear carefully. For most treks a category B boot is the best choice. Some may choose trail runners for the easier treks while others swear by stiffer mountain boots. Whatever you choose, make sure you break them in. Other important things you need to add to your gear list are hats, gloves, walking poles, clothing layers and a small first aid kit. You can borrow a quality sleeping bag and down jacket from us! For a complete list of what to bring, see our dedicated blog post here.

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. Arriving in the city for the first time can be an overwhelming experience. Cars and tuk tuks everywhere, people selling their goods on the street, lots of smells and sounds. When you have overcome the initial shock you’ll see Kathmandu is actually a really cool and interesting place. Tourists in Kathmandu tend to gravitate towards the bustling quarter Thamel. With its narrow market streets, lively eateries and bars and plenty of places to stay, this area has it all. It’s also a great place to do some last minute shopping for snacks and outdoor equipment, should you have forgotten to bring something.

What are the best places to visit in Kathmandu? It’s definitely worth allowing one or two extra days in town to visit some impressive historical sites. The most popular of them all is probably the Swayambhunath Stupa (aka Monkey Temple). Situated on top of a hill this ancient religious complex overlooks the entire sprawl of Kathmandu. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durbar Square is a must-visit, showing the historical grandeur of old Kathmandu with beautiful, well-preserved temples and palaces. Finally a visit to the Hindu complex of the Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of the Bagmati River is a fascinating cultural experience.

Some final words on visiting Kathmandu. Bring a face mask, the air pollution in Kathmandu Valley can be really bad. And keep an eye on your belongings and don’t show valuables. Pickpockets are active in the busy tourist quarters of the city.

All our tours start and end in Kathmandu and we will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off again at the end of your trek.

At Bookatrekking.com you can book your Nepal trek and many other treks. Our guided options come with experts on the ground, and offer you a convenient, stress-free, safe, and educational way to explore the outdoors. Find our offers here. Our easy-to-use platform allows you to browse and compare different trekking options and find the perfect fit for your interests, abilities, and budget.

If you have any questions about a specific trek or need help choosing the right one for you, our team of trekking experts is here to assist you. Simply reach out to us and we will be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations and advice to help you plan the trekking adventure of a lifetime.

For more blog posts about one of our exciting destination scroll down