Nepal’s trekking scene is no joke. This tiny landlocked country nestled between India and Tibet is world-renowned for housing some of the tallest and most epic mountains in the world. It lures climbers, hikers, and all types of adventure junkies from across the globe with its rugged trails and snowy Himalayan peaks that stretch over 8,000 meters in the sky.
You’ll almost literally be reaching for the stars when trekking in Nepal.
From Everest to Annapurna, trekkers have the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most iconic hiking routes, complete with luscious rainforest, waterfalls, prayer flags, and some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see. Are you ready for a REAL adventure?
Before signing up, it’s important to consider what you need to know before trekking in Nepal? Despite being one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world, note that Nepal is still an underdeveloped country. Trekking through isolated communities in the mountains with limited supplies and unpredictable weather is a challenge for even the most experienced trekkers.
While trekking in Nepal can be one of the best experiences you’ll ever have, it can also be disastrous if you’re underprepared. Before hopping on that flight to Kathmandu, here’s what to know before trekking in Nepal.
4 FAQs about trekking in Nepal
Trekking Nepal is more than just another bucket list destination. It’s a transformational journey.
1. Can you trek in Nepal without a guide?
One of the biggest questions of first-time travelers to this iconic country is whether or not trekking in Nepal without a guide is possible. There is no right answer here. Most trekking routes in Nepal are possible to do solo, with very few restricted areas requiring a guide.
Solo trekking can be a challenging adventure that saves a bit of money; however, if you’re an inexperienced trekker in the Himalayas and don’t have knowledge of the Nepali language and transportation system, it’s nearly guaranteed you’ll run into roadblocks en route.
Trekking in Nepal with a guide can truly enhance your experience, and it means the logistics are taken care of for you. They’ll organize your transportation to and from the trekking route and ensure you have safe accommodation that can be difficult to find in peak season.
On top of that, they will guide you through terrain shifts, and provide medical support in the case of sickness, injury, or even natural disaster. Nepali guides are passionate, too. You’ll learn about the land you walk on, the native flora and fauna, and how to communicate with locals along the way.
2. How much does it cost to trek in Nepal?
While Nepal tends to be a fairly cheap destination to visit, planning a trek requires a higher investment. Prices vary depending on the experience you sign up for and the options are endless.
Nepal trekking tours tend to be the easiest option, especially for inexperienced trekkers, as they require one up-front payment that includes everything you need for your trek: permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, a porter to carry your luggage, and a guide.
Prices for Nepal trekking tours can vary anywhere between $600 and $5,000, and often depend on the length and altitude of your route and whether or not the tour company is local or international.
If you want to save money, it will take time and preparation. Between the trekking permits, national park fees, meals, accommodation, and transportation, the average cost of trekking can be anywhere from $30 to $100 per day.
No matter which option you choose, when considering how much does it cost to trek in Nepal, don’t forget to factor in flights, travel insurance, visa fees, and trekking equipment, which can add up quickly.
READ: How to Choose Between Adventure Travel Tour Companies
3. Is Nepal safe for female travelers?
Nepal is perfectly safe for women. Just travel smart and do your research.
Nepal is considered to be one of the safer countries for solo travelers, females included. The locals are kind, welcoming, and respectful. In fact, Nepal is known as one of the most harmonious countries in Asia. With this being said, it’s always important to keep your wits about you when traveling alone.
Solo female travelers should be aware of the cultural differences compared with Western societies and should aim to always respect cultural norms. Female travelers should avoid tight clothing and ensure their shoulders and knees are covered at all times so as to not appear immodest to locals.
While Nepal tends to be safe for female travelers, it’s not advised for females to trek alone with a male guide. Instead, find a trekking buddy, or support local Nepal trekking tours, like 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking, which specializes in female treks and is run by female guides.
4. When is the best time of year for trekking in Nepal?
When it comes to trekking in Nepal, the best time of year depends on what you want to get out of the experience. Peak Nepal trekking season tends to fall in October when the rainy season ends. The clouds give way to the most epic Himalayan views and the weather hasn’t shifted to bone-chilling cold and snow.
The downside of visiting during peak Nepal trekking season? The prices skyrocket and there are so many people that your time on the trails starts to feel like waiting in a long queue.
While it’s not recommended to visit during monsoon season from June to August due to torrential rain and the threat of landslides, there are other great times to go trekking in Nepal if you want a little alone time. Trekking in Nepal in spring, from March to May, brings sunshine, warmth, quiet, full-bloom rhododendrons, and only the occasional rainfall.
If you want to visit Everest, this is the time to go. Visiting at the tail-end of monsoon season is also an option; if you can get in late September before peak season hits, you’ll save some money and the trails will be empty. You’ll likely have some rainy days, but the route will be just as beautiful.
READ: The Ultimate International Adventure Packing List
7 tips for trekking in Nepal
One of the worst things you could do is dive into advanced trekking without doing research!
1. Pack for every season.
While it’s important to pack light when you’re spending days, weeks, or more on the trails, trekking in Nepal will often show you its many faces no matter how long you’re out there. No matter what time of year you decide to go trekking in Nepal, it’s likely you’ll experience every season—even in just one day.
With varying altitudes, it’s important to pack for rain, snow, heat, and humidity. The key is to pack layers that can be stripped off throughout the day, and make sure they are lightweight, waterproof, and wick away sweat.
2. Factor in extra time.
When planning your trekking routes, always underestimate how much distance you can cover in a day in the Himalayas. Nepali trails can be deceptive. Often the estimated time to complete a route is calculated by locals who were born and raised in the mountains. They’re familiar with the altitude and steep terrain and tend to fly through the trails much faster than travelers.
Consider how much time a local tells you you need, and double it. That way, you won’t run out of daylight or water. In the best-case scenario, you’ll arrive at your destination a little earlier than expected, with some extra time to warm your bones by the fire and rest your feet.
3. Invest in a good pair of hiking boots.
If you’ve ever been to Nepal before, you’ll notice how relaxed the locals are when it comes to footwear, throwing on a pair of worn-out Adidas before hitting the trails. Once again, keep in mind that the Nepali people have spent their whole lives walking up and down mountains, and they often don’t have access to well-made footwear.
In this case, don’t do as the locals do. Invest in some top-notch hiking boots that provide ankle support, protect you from slipping on rain and ice, and make sure you wear them before trekking in Nepal so your feet are fully prepared for 8-hour days on the trails.
4. Consider trekking poles.
Plan ahead and prepare. That means don’t forget your hiking boots and trekking poles!
First-time trekkers often skip the poles—that’s how you can spot a trekking newbie. One of the most difficult parts of trekking in Nepal is dealing with tired legs that want to give out, especially during your descent. Poles give a little extra support for your joints. They also allow your arms to do some of the work, and your body will definitely thank you for it.
5. You can hire trekking gear in Nepal.
There are certain things you shouldn’t leave home without—remember that good pair of trekking boots! But there are also many opportunities to buy or rent trekking gear once you arrive in Nepal.
From hats, gloves, hiking pants, and fleeces to hiking poles, water purification tablets, and first aid kits, bigger cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara are your places to load up on gear. Odds are, you’ll find most of it for much cheaper than you would at home.
6. Bring enough cash for your entire trek.
When you’re trekking in Nepal, there are no ATMs en route and it will be nearly impossible to find a place that takes credit cards. Before leaving the main cities, make sure you withdraw enough Nepalese rupees to cover all of your expenses for your time in the mountains.
Keep in mind any remaining permits or park fees that need to be paid, as well as the steeper prices for food and accommodation when you reach higher altitudes. Nepali ATMs tend to have withdrawal limits, so make sure you plan ahead and have plenty of time to withdraw or convert your currency before heading for the trails.
7. Eat the dal bhat.
Nutritious, delicious food is necessary fuel for your trek.
Trekking in Nepal typically takes you through small villages where you’ll have the opportunity to stop, eat, sleep, and warm up at tea houses run by local families. While you’re there, eat what the locals eat. “Dal bhat power, 24 hour” tends to be a common saying amongst locals and tourists alike, and for good reason.
Dal bhat is the go-to for most meals—it’s cheap, filled with protein-rich lentils and greens, it tastes delicious, and it’s great for digestion. Every local has their own unique way of preparing the dish, so no two dals will be the same. The best part? This local dish tends to come as an all-you-can-eat option, which means more for your money.
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3 Nepal trekking tours to consider
Considering Nepal trekking tours for your next big adventure? Here are a few of the best tours out there.
1. Pure Exploration: Expedition Leader Program
- Why? Pure Exploration’s outdoor leader program combines travel to six countries across the world, including a trek through the Himalayas. This program offers an immersive experience for those who want to build their confidence in international travel, as well as the adventure travel industry.
- While participating in the Expedition Leader Program, you can earn your Outdoor Leadership Qualification and Advanced International Wilderness First Aid certification, meaning you could be well on your way to being a guide yourself!
- Read Pure Exploration reviews
2. Pacific Discovery: Nepal Gap Year Semester
- Why? If you want to get the full Nepali cultural immersion, Pacific Discovery can offer this and more. Through a gap year or semester abroad, you’ll live in a village homestay with a local family while volunteering in community development and learning the Nepali language.
- During your stay, you’ll have the opportunity to study yoga and meditation at a Buddhist monastery, raft down the Kali Gandaki River, one of the holiest rivers in Nepal, visit Chitwan National Park, and trek the famous Annapurna Circuit over 16 days. Could you ask for any more adventures?
- Read Pacific Discovery reviews
3. Nepal Hiking Team Pvt. Ltd: Everest Base Camp Trek
- Why? If you want to knock off the legendary Everest Base Camp trip from your bucket list, consider joining a tour with Nepal Hiking Team. Their Nepal trekking tours begin with sightseeing in Kathmandu before flying you to the infamous Lukla to begin your trek.
- With a guide, you’ll make your way through Everest’s tranquil trails and rhododendron forests alongside the Sherpa people. Your 16-day trek will take you 5,500 meters in the sky to Everest Base Camp, every trekker's dream.
- Read Nepal Hiking Team reviews
Ready for your adventure in Nepal?
You’ll be amazed by what you (and your body) can accomplish.
Trekking in Nepal should absolutely be a “must” on your adventure bucket list. Whether you’re an avid trekker or completely new to the trekking world, you’re sure to fall in love with Nepal’s peaceful culture and incredible Himalayan views. Trekking in Nepal will be challenging, but it will be well worth it when you’re standing in the clouds, feeling like you’re on top of the world.
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