Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Trekking
  • Transport: Public Vehicle & Tourist Bus
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
  • Group Size: 2-16
  • Max Elevation: Thorang La 5416m

Highlights

  • A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat to Soti Khola.
  • Explore Budhi Gandaki Valley.
  • Cross Larkya La pass 
  • Explore the culture of Tibetan Buddhism in this region.
  • Mesmerizing views of the Annapurna Range and Mt. Manaslu.
  • Walk in the serenity of the Manaslu region.
  • Visit Kargyu-Pemba Chholing Gompa, Labrang Gompa, Pungyen Nunnery etc
  • Fantastic views of the Himalayan peaks: Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Dhaulagiri (the spectacular ice pyramid), Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail), including other mountain ranges
  • Thorong-La Pass: the Famous viewpoint in the Annapurna region and the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit and also considered as one of the widest passes in the world
  • Tilicho Lake: situated at the highest altitude (4,919m) in the world and the Kali Gandaki Gorge or Andha Galchi (between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna), the deepest canyon in the world
  • Discover old monasteries situated in Braga
  • Rhododendron Forests has more than 440 species of birds and animals like Marten, Deer, Langur Monkey and the exclusive Snow Leopard
  • The Muktinath Temple: one of the most important shrines of both Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Natural Hot Spring at Tatopani to relax your tired muscles
  • View Sunrise and Sunset from Thorong La pass
  • Experience the rich cultural ethnic community: Gurung and Thakali settlements in place such as Jomsom, and Manang

Description

Annapurna Circuit trek lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. The trail takes you through the beautiful central-western part of Nepal and up close to Mount Annapurna. Manaslu trek, on the other hand, lies on the border of Nepal and Tibet.

Manaslu Trek is a splendid experience to the remote taste of Nepal. Manaslu Trek penetrates the off beaten path along with the beautiful tea houses along the journey. Manaslu trek leads you to Manaslu Base Camp lies at the altitude of 4800m. The trek takes you around Mt. Manaslu - the world's eighth highest mountain at 8,163 meters (26,781 ft). Manaslu trek is gaining attention from travelers seeking peaceful and quiet hike.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is also known as Thorong Pass trek. Annapurna Circuit trek is comfortable compared to Manaslu trek. You will pass through mesmerizing pristine villages on your Annapurna Circuit trek expedition. Annapurna Circuit Trek offers you the panoramic view of the Annapurna massifs 8,091 meters (26,545 ft).

Manaslu trek used to be a restricted region for travelers before 1992. You will need special permits to enter the Manaslu region. Hence, Annapurna Circuit Trek is slightly cheaper than Manaslu Trek. 

Both of the treks offer you a journey through the sacred places and Monuments. We will provide you detailed information about the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Trek. So, you can have an insight into the topic to plan for your next destination.

19 Days Manaslu And Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

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Today, you will head out to the starting point of your trek i.e. Machha Khola. You will take a bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The route of the bus takes you along the Prithvi Highway. The road you through the middle hills till Malekhu. From Malekhu, a 30km road takes you north along the Trishuli river as you head towards Dhading Besi. A further 35-kilometer drive along a dirt road leads you to Arughat. As the road gets winding up to Gola Bhanjyang, you can see panoramic views Ganesh, Baudha and Manaslu Himal. A further 4 hours of ride leads you to Machha Khola. The bus ride countinue to Machha Khola is 9-10 hours.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 160km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 900m

After breakfast, you will head out on a 6-7 hour trekking journey to Jagat (1410 meters). After crossing Machha Khola, you will trek gently up to the tiny village of Khorla Bensi. From there, you will get to the natural hot springs at Tatopani. This trail is also quite challenging.

After crossing a short forested path, you will reach a single teahouse at Doban. Above the village of Dobhan, Budhi Gandaki river descends rather impressively to a series of rapids. The river is quite calm beyond this steep slope. A further trek from Dobhan leads you to Lauri, where you will cross the river on a suspension bridge. Finally, you will climb on a high path to the fields of Jagat, where you will spend your night. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 22km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 1410m

After breakfast at a teahouse in Jagat, you will embark on your trekking journey. A gentle uphill trek followed by a trek along level fields takes you to a suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki. After crossing this suspension bridge, you will get to Philim. Philim is a large Gurung village that is home to small serene monasteries, stupas and prayer flags. You will have your lunch in Philim.

After lunch, you will trek through a flat leveled path. This path is inside pine and rhododendron forests. During the trek, you will also cross a few bridges that overlook quaint villages afar. After trekking for 6-7 hours from Jagat, you will arrive at Deng (1080 meters). Deng is home to a few houses. You can also enjoy an amazing waterfall lying at a small distance from Deng. This is an agricultural village that is famous for its potatoes, and buckwheat, barley, wheat, cabbage, & spinach. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 20km / 6-7 hrs
  • Altitude: 1800m

Deng is a village that is the point of entry to Kutang or lower Nupri (part of Tibet until the 1840s): It is a primarily a Gurung settlement with the culture of Tibetan Buddhism. They have their own language. The trail from Deng takes you along a winding path to Rana. After trekking past a series of uphills and downhills, you will get to a log bridge. After crossing a tributary from the bridge, you will get to an isolated water mill. Then you will descend gently along the trail to Bihi Phedi, which lies high above the river.

Beyond Bihi Phedi, the trail descends as you cross the Serang Khola. Then, you will trek along a winding path that shapes up like an S. The path lies between sheer basalt walls. You can also see huge rocky crags to the right. You will also have splendid views of the waterfall above the maize and wheat fields. As you trek towards the northeast direction, the valley broadens. After trekking past a bridge and mani stone walls, you will reach the attractive village of Ghap (2,250m/ 7,382ft). Past the village of Ghap, you will trek through bamboo, rhododendron and oak forests. On some days, you can also see birds like Impeyan pheasant (also known as Himalayan Monal)

This trail is above the steep descent of the river. For a short duration of time, you will trek to the north bank. Then you will head back towards the southern bank after crossing a bridge. After trekking for one hour from the bridge, you will reach Namrung. Namrung also has a police checkpoint for permits. Just before you get to Namrung, the trail overlooks Tum Khola from Tibet. This adds to the volume of water in Budhi Gandaki in the confluence. The trek from Deng to Namrung (2630 meters) is 6-7 hours long. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 19.5km / 6-7 hrs
  • Altitude: 2630m

Namrung is a Tibetan village and serves as an entrance to Upper Nupri. As you trek past a mix of forest and barley fields, you will reach Lihi. You can see impressive chortens as well as great views of Himal Chuli (7,893m/25,897ft) and Ganesh Himal. The trail then descends before entering a valley as you cross the Hinang Khola. After crossing Hinanag river on a bridge, you will trek along a steep uphill to a chorten, which offers spectacular views of Ngadi Chuli (7,873m/25,831ft).

As you trek further up a steep ridge, you will reach Lho. You can also visit a large monastery called Ribung monastery in Lho. You will then trek down a steep uphill before you reach Damonan Khola tributary. After trekking past a plateau, you will get to Shyala village (3,520m/11,549ft). Shayala overlooks many beautiful peaks like Himal Chuli (7,893m/25,897ft), Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli, 7,873m/25,831ft); and Manaslu (8,156m/26,760ft).

As you continue trekking, you will get to a bridge over Numla Khola. The trail then takes the left of Pungyen Gompa. After trekking for 6-7 hours from Namrung, you will get to Samagaon (3530 meters). Kargyu Chholing Monastery stands against a forested moraine around the edge of this village. From Samagaon, you can only see the upper sections of Manaslu and the Naike ridge. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 18km / 6-7 hrs
  • Altitude: 3530m

Today, you will explore the village of Samagaon, which is the regional center of Nupri. You will also get to know about the culture and architecture in the region: only potatoes and barley flourish in the short summers at this altitude. Most of the people in this village weave clothes from sheep or Tibetan imported wool. They are also involved in the manufacture of hooked rugs for trade with Tibet.

You will visit the Labrang (Lama’s Place) Gompa and the Kargyu Chholing Monastery in Samagaon, The history of these monasteries dates back some 500 years ago. Many people ascribe the history of these monasteries to its earlier Tibetan settlers. The monastery has impressive wooden carvings. All in all, there are eight temple buildings. The largest of them is the Pemba Chholing Gompa. It is home to an impressive statue of Guru Rinpoche.

A gentle hike past the monastery leads you to Birendra Tal (3,450m/11,319ft). This lake lies below Manaslu Glacier. You can also trek for close to 3 kilometers to get to a hilltop or a stony beach which offers wonderful views of Manaslu. You can also follow a trail towards Samdo to a bridge over the stream from the lake. After trekking for 5-6 hours, you will get to Manaslu Base Camp.

You can also trek to Pungyen Nunnery (3,870m/12,697 ft). It lies above Pungyen Glacier. You can get sumptuous views of the Nadi ridges and Manaslu from near the gompa. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 3530m

The initial part of today’s trek descends towards Budhi Gandaki. The trail is in the north towards the lake. You will walk along the Base Camp trail as you encounter several mani walls as the valley widens. The trek is relatively easy and lies a shelf above the river. You will walk past the forests of juniper and birch which surround Kermo Kharka. The trail then descends to a wooden bridge as you cross the Budhi Gandaki river.

Then you will trek along a steep uphill to a ridge that lies above the confluence of Budhi Gandaki and Mayol Khola. You will encounter a stone arch, and fields before you get to the entrance of the village. Although the place is an attractive one, it is primarily a yak and goat herding area. The village only turned out as a settlement in the late 1950s when Tibetans fled Tibet.

As you trek past these fields, you will get to several sets of flags on a high ridge. Here, you can catch superb panoramic views of Samdo Peak (6,335m/20,785ft) and its glacial basin, the Sama Valley, Manaslu range, Syacha Glacier, Dharamsala, and Larkya La pass. After trekking for 4-5 hours from Samagaon, you will reach Samdo (3860 meters). Samdo is the last village before Gho, in the Manang District. Only informal kharkas (with lodges) lie between these villages. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 7.5 km / 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 3800m

You will trek past the fields in the northern village as you cross the Budhi Gandaki the final time. This will take place in the Larkya Bazaar site. The flow of the river takes it to the Pana Danda Valley in the north. You will then take the westward trail. You will trek past grassy slopes with scrub juniper, rhododendron and lichen covered granite. This trail is just above the Syacha Khola Valley. Along the way, you can also see the origin of Syacha Glacier, which descends from the Manaslu North ridge.

The trail works heads towards the Larkya Glacier. After trekking past the Larkya La Phedi, you will get to a settlement called Dharamsala (4460 meters). Today’s trek from Samdo to Dharamsala is 4-5 hours long. A short walk from your guesthouse will take to a place with better views of the Larke (6,249m/20,503ft) and Naike (6,291m/20,641ft) peaks. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 6.5km / 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 4400m

Today you trek for 3-5 hours to ascend 800m/2,600ft to get to Larkya La Pass (5160 meters). You will then descend for 3-4 hours losing 1,500m/4,900 in altitude to get to Bimthang(3720 meters). If the wind blows, it can get really cold along the way. You have to be extra careful if you encounter ice and snow along the way.

The trekking trail from Dharamsala takes you along a gentle ascent to a ridge. Then will be a long gentle climb to the moraine. The trail along the northern moraine of the Larke Glacier is not quite steep. However, the trek is quite long and rocky. So you might find this a bit challenging. From the glacier, you can see the Larke Peak (Larke Himal) and Pawar Peak (Cheo Himal) on the south and north of the glacier respectively.

From the pass, you will trek uphill to an ablation valley. The trail then drops down to the first of four small scattered frozen lakes. As you trek uphill to the glacial moraine from the left, you will get to the first set of summit flags. The trail overlooks the Tibetan border ranges beyond Samdo Peak on the eastern side. There is a long moraine-ridge that is parallel to the Larke wall. A set of flags separates the Larke Wall. These flags are the markers of the border between the Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation areas.

This place is a wonderful point to see the various peaks like Pawar Peak (6,620m/21,720ft), Cheo Himal (6,820m/22,376ft), the Himlung pyramid (7,126m/23,380ft), Gyaji Kung (7,030m23,065ft), Kang Garu (6,981m/22,905ft) plus Annapurna II (7,937m/26,041ft).

After spending some time in Larkya La pass, you will start your descent begins from these prayer flags. The trail descends steeply from the moraine. Then you will get to a set of steep zigzags until you reach Dangboche Kharka (4,450m/14,600ft). The trail from Dangboche Kharka is not really steep. The trail winds along the lateral moraine of the Salpudanda/Bimthang glacier before getting to Bimthang Valley. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 24km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 3560m

Bhimthang is a beautiful settlement that gives you views of the Kechakyu Himal on the north and Manaslu’s northeast face. Bhimthang serves as a settlement of the people of Samdo village in the summer season. It was also an important trading post before the border to Tibet closed down. It was also a center of the Tibetan Khampa warriors around 1970.

Today’s trek begins as you walk past the Bimthang Plain. You will descend along a trail to cross the stony glacier before heading up a moraine to enter rhododendron and pine forest. All along this route, you will get wonderful views of Larke, Manaslu, Nadi and Chuli Himals. As you descend further, you will get to Hompuk and Sangura Kharka before reaching Karche. From Karche, you will trek past terraced fields and a steep uphill until you reach Gho.

The trail from Gho takes you through farmlands to Tilje (2,300m/7,546ft). From there, you will descend rapidly towards the Marsyangdi Valley in Thonje (1,965m/6,447ft) You will then join the new road along the main Annapurna Circuit route in Dharapani(3560 meters). Today’s trek is 5-6 hours long. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 23km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 1900m

We start our day after having breakfast at the lodge. We will reach Chame(2700) after about 3 hours. Chame is the biggest settlement that falls in this trail. There are lots of hotels and offices. It is also a perfect place to grab some snacks if you feel like it.

Then we continue our journey towards Dhikur Pokhari. With a beautiful view across and beneath the hill, we climb upwards. The view of Annapurna will definitely make you happy.

Upon reaching Chame, we rest at a lodge for an overnight stay.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 16km / 5-6 hrs
  • Altitude: 2710m

We have a beautiful journey waiting for today. The trail from Dhikur Pokhari to Ngawal is beautiful. The trail is also an easy one comparatively. You can see the beautiful snow-capped Mountains and huge desert-like hills across.

The trail takes you across beautiful forests and woods. We continue walking ups and downs before reaching Pisang. Overnight at a hotel.  

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 14km / 5-6 hrs
  • Altitude: 3300m

Finally, we will reach Manang village today. The trail is simple and smooth. We will make a small stop in Braga, where we will visit one of the oldest monasteries in the area. Leaving the magical view from Braga behind, we start walking towards Manang.

Upon reaching Manang, you can see many hotels, lodges, and teahouses. The village of Manang is truly beautiful. It lies beneath a cliff across the Gangapurna mountain and Annapurna region at a distance.

There are a few bakeries in Manang. So make sure to try the locally made bread and desserts. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 15.5km / 6-7 hrs
  • Altitude: 3550m

Finally, we have a rest day. Rest days are for proper acclimatization to the altitude. And you have to be in top condition for further journey. Explore this beautiful town, as there are plenty of places for you to enjoy.

You can visit the Gangapurna lake which is only 20 minutes far from Manang. You can hike to even higher altitude which offers better views of the village and Gangapurna.

Khangsar village is another popular destination while you are in Manang. It will take you about 3 hours to reach Khangsar. It all depends on how you want to spend the acclimatization day in Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 2-3 hrs
  • Altitude: 3550m

The destination for us today is Ledar. We take a steep climb right after leaving Manang behind. After that, the trail is basic until we reach Yak Kharka where we cross the 4000m altitude.

We walk further and after about 2 hours from Yak Kharka, we will arrive at Ledar. You can feel the altitude here. This place is cold and the landscapes change drastically. There are a few tea houses in Ledar, and we will stay for the night in any one of them

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 11km / 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 4110m

After having breakfast at a teahouse, we start our trekking with a climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the Marsyangdi river and crossing via a suspension bridge, after a short ascent up the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable scree slope and then descend to Thorung  High Camp. Overnight at a Teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 9km / 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 4800m

It will be our final day in Manang, and today we will cross the Thorong La pass. It will take us around 3 to 4 hours to reach the pass. We start early so that we can reach the pass before a strong wind starts at noon.

The path is filled with rough surfaces and landslide areas. You have to take each step carefully. But the reward cannot be described in words. The feeling of reaching the Thorong pass is itself a magnificent achievement. On top of that, the view is mindblowing. You can see the desert-like terrain in Mustang and lots of white Mountains.

After a pleasant stay at the top and gathering our strength back, we start descending towards Muktinath. The descend is challenging, and you will feel great pressure in your knee. The path might be covered with snow and ice, which can make this trek more challenging.

It will take us about 5-6 hours to reach Muktinath. Upon reaching Muktinath, you are back to civilization. Modern houses, motor roads, and lots of vehicles are common in Muktinath. now we Drive to Jomsom Which takes one hrs We stay at a hotel for the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Distance: 14km / 6-7 hrs then drive 1 hrs
  • Altitude: 2700m

The trek officially comes to an end as we drive back to Pokhara. The journey takes about 6-7 hours and is a scenic one with the verdant landscapes and fierce flowing streams blessing your eyes! We pass along the settlements of Tatopani, Beni, Kusma eventually into Pokhara.

Upon reaching Pokhara, our representatives will escort you back to the hotel. After checking in, you can spend the rest of the evening in any one of the local pubs of Pokhara, sharing your travel stories with fellow travelers.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Distance: 155km / 8-9 hrs
  • Altitude: 820m

We head back home after 14 days of absolute blissful trekking experience. On the final day, our representatives will drop you off at the Tourist bus stop of Pokhara from where you will catch a tourist bus back to the capital. The journey takes about 6 hours with occasional stops on the way. 

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: None
  • Distance: 210km 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 1320m

What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day ( Breakfast, Lunch, and  Dinner) during the trek
  • 1 Night Hotelin Pokhara with Breakfast
  • Local Bus Ticket (Kathmandu to Soti Khola)
  • Local Bus Ticket ( Jomsom to Pokhara)
  • Tourist Bus Ticket ( Pokhara to Kathmandu
  •  English Speaking Trekking Guide with Insurance, Transportation, Food and Accommodation
  • All Trekking Permits (ACAP, MCAP and Manaslu Special Permit)
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner 
  • Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed).
  • A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude) 
  • All Government and Local taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
  • Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
  • Meals in Pokhara
  • Private Transpotation
  • Extra night accommodation in Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal expenses (WiFi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
  • Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
  • Tips for Guides, Porters, and Drivers

Optional

  • Private jeep Kathmandu to Machha khola USD220$
  • Private jeep Jomsom to Pokhara USD250$
  • Flight Jomsom to Pokhara USD 165$ Per Person 
  • Flight Pokhara to Kathmandu  USD 106$ Per Person
  • Kathmandu Hotel Per Night Twin Sharing On BB USD 60$

FAQs

What is Trekking, and how it is different than Hiking and Climbing?

Trekking is an activity of walking the natural landscapes (especially the side of the mountain) with a specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. Trekking is generally a multi-day walk, where you stay overnight at trails. 

It tests the trekker's physical ability, stamina, endurance, and also the psychological capacity. Trekking is different from hiking as trekking is a rigorous and challenging activity, whereas hiking is mainly a leisure activity. Hiking generally ranges from a single day walk. 

Climbing, on the other hand, is a much more challenging that requires various technical skills like abseiling, rope fixing, among others. A climber is much riskier requires specialized equipment, as well as rigorous training.

How many hours should I walk daily?

The trekking hours depend upon the trekking routes you choose. In general, a trek like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Kanchenjunga treks requires five to six hours of walking on average. The duration also depends on your pace too. 

It is not advisable to trek more than 600m altitude in a day. Starting your trek early is key to avoiding the midday heat and arriving at your destination early. This leaves you enough time to rest, acclimatize, and explore the region.

How difficult is trekking in Nepal?

The level of difficulty depends on the trekking route such as Everest region treks, Annapurna region treks, and other remote area treks. It is also subjective to each individual and their level of endurance. A basic level of fitness is necessary to trek the high altitude region of Nepal with considerably challenging trails. 

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty 

Some regular exercise, including cardiovascular activities including but not limited to hiking, cycling, swimming, is a must. Trekkers must have a healthy heart, lungs, and joints. You must start the training regime at least two weeks before the trek.

Is Trekking recommended for all age groups of travelers?

Trekking in Nepal is ideal for all age groups. Trekking can be fun for children as well as for people in their seventies. You can choose the trek based on the difficulty level and suitability.

However, with children, you need to be extra careful in the high altitude regions as they cannot express their pain and fatigue properly. For older people, treks can get customized with accommodating enough rest, acclimatization, and cultural exploration.

You can opt for Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, as it is one of the most popular easy treks in Nepal. This trek is suitable for all age groups with children and family as well. 

Also Read: Top 10 Best Short Treks in Nepal

What is the minimum duration for trekking?

The minimum duration of trekking depends upon the trek destination and trail type. There are many treks that last around 3-8 days. 

These treks are short and specially designed for beginners. The trek journey can get modified by increasing or decreasing the rest and acclimatization days.

Do I need to get some training before doing trekking in Nepal?

Yes, it's better to get some training before doin trekking in Nepal. The training should consist of practice hikes, cardiovascular endurance (aerobic exercise), strength training, and mental strength exercises.

What are the basic tips for beginner trekkers who don’t have any experience?

The essential tips for beginners trekkers who don't have any experience are:

  • Walk at a slow but steady pace
  • Do not rush in your trek
  • Acclimatize and hydrate regularly
  • Pack all your necessities properly
  • Start early on your trek
  • Pre-book your trip

How safe is the water to drink?

The tap water in Nepal is unsafe to drink. The trekkers need to boil their water, use water purification tablets, or bottled water. In high altitude conditions, you need to boil water longer than at lower elevations. 

If you choose to carry or buy bottled water, you should always check if the bottle cap is properly sealed and not tampered. Water purification tablets and drops like Piyush, Water guard use chlorine solution to purify waters. 

You can use any of these methods and drink lots of water to reduce dehydration and cope with altitude sickness.

Where are we staying each night during trekking?

Nepal is famous for the teahouse treks. There are tea houses, lodges, guest houses all along the trails. You will stay at these accommodations each night on your trekking adventure. 

These accommodation facilities provide twin beds, a pillow, and a warm fuzzy blanket. You might find it challenging to find proper accommodation facilities along with the remote off the beaten treks. You might have to camp in such conditions. 

What is Teahouse Trekking Nepal?

The teahouses trekking means staying in a teahouse or lodge every night in your trekking journey. The tea houses offer necessary facilities of lodging and meal and allow trekkers to carry a minimum amount of gear. 

A teahouse can range from comfortable lodges, like in the Solu Khumbu region to a small bamboo hut in the remote trails of western Nepal.

Which are the permits required for trekking? Can I apply as an individual?

A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) card is a necessary trekking permit required for any trekking activity in Nepal. Besides that, you will need area-specific trekking permits at varied costs based on the region. 

For example, you will need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) if you want to do the Annapurna Circuit trek permit and a Sagarmatha National park permit for the EBC trek. You can get the TIMS card and other area-specific permits at the office of the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.

Is Travel Insurance compulsory while you travel to Nepal?

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all travelers traveling to the region. You must get an excellent travel insurance package that covers both the medical and emergency evacuation cost. A travel insurance package of a minimum of USD 100,000 is ideal.

What if I get sick in the mountains?

When trekking in the remote mountain areas, you will only get elementary medical facilities available or none at all. You can find the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) health posts run by western volunteer doctors at Pheriche and Manang in the Everest and Annapurna region, respectively. 

The doctors provide consultation and services if necessary. If you get severely ill or accidents, then you might as well need a helicopter evacuation back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.

How high is the chance to get altitude sickness? How will a guide help?

The chance to get altitude sickness is exceptionally high in these Himalayan regions. A guide will help you to acclimatize appropriately, which is a crucial step to avoid altitude sickness. The guide can also help you to recover in case you get altitude sickness or with any emergencies. 

How to avoid altitude sickness?

The primary key to avoid altitude sickness is to acclimatize properly. You should not gain more than 600m in altitude in the high altitude regions. Expert trekkers advise to take it slow and not to trek in a rush. 

Regular hydration with at least 5 liters of water is a must. You can also take precautionary tablets under the supervision of a medical professional if needed.

Why is the domestic flight specially to and from Lukla or Jomsom delayed?

The domestic flight to and from Lukla gets delayed frequently due to unfavorable weather conditions. The weather around the high altitude regions is quite unpredictable. 

Lukla airport is also one of the smallest airports in the world. The short runway means that multiple flights cannot land at the same time and can even cause unwanted delays.

Who will carry my backpack?

You can hire a porter for the high altitude trek. They will carry all your luggage that might include your trekking and sleeping equipment. Hiring a porter significantly reduces the weight off your back. 

You can carry a light daypack consisting of water, a camera, snacks, and rain gear. The heavy luggage will get carried by a porter. Some guides work as porters, as well. 

What are the food items that we can eat in the teahouse?

For breakfast, the tea houses provide a regular bread toast along with hot tea or coffee. For lunch and dinner, the staple dish of “Dal Bhat” gets served on the tea houses. The Dal Bhat is highly nutritious, with a balance of carbohydrates and protein. 

It consists of if rice, cereal, vegetables, lentils, spinach, meat, and pickles. Some tea houses do serve a limited variety of western cuisines like pizza, burgers, and pasta, as well. 

What are the services that we get from each teahouse?

The tea houses provide lodging and meal facilities. They provide a twin bedroom with a pillow and a fuzzy blanket. You will have to share a shared bathroom with fellow trekkers. The toilets are generally of squat style. 

Besides that, you will get all the meal facilities in the tea houses as well. You can get all the meals of the day i.e. breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the tea houses. The food might not be fancy but provides you with excellent nutrition and adequate energy for the trek. 

How safe is Nepal for solo woman traveler?

Nepal is generally safe for women travelers. The Nepalese society is quite conservative and has a specific idea of modest clothing. Dressing modestly by covering thighs and shoulders will save you from unwanted gaze on the streets. 

Female travelers should not travel alone, especially at late nights. You should also choose your guide wisely after a thorough background check. If you keep these things in your mind, you will remain safe while traveling in Nepal.

How much money should I bring for trekking?

A general estimate of $25 per day per person on average would be enough for trekking in Nepal. The food and accommodation costs are generally paid upfront and costs around $2 - $3 per bed. This also includes the food costs that are available provided in the teahouses. 

If you wish to take hot water showers or recharge electronic gadgets, it might cost you a couple of bucks more. If you are a budget traveler, spending frugally might get the costs down to $15. Overall, the rough estimate of $25 is ideal for the trek.

Are there any ATMs on the way to trekking routes?

There are no ATMs along the trail in the high altitude region. The last ATM can is in Namche and Lukla if you are trekking the Everest Base Camp region. You will have to use the ATM in Kathmandu and Pokhara and carry the necessary cash along with you in the trek. 

How much weight can one porter carry?

A porter generally carries 10kg per client, and they carry for two clients, which means they can carry a maximum of 20kg. However, it is advisable to reduce the amount of luggage and only take the necessary ones.

How many tips should we give to guide and porter?

The general unwritten but widely followed rule is to tip 15 percent of the total cost spent trekking. If you are trekking solo, the rule of thumb is to tip $5 per day or equivalent for guides and $2 to $4 per day or equivalent for porters. 

For group trekking, you can tip $10 per day for guides and $5 per day for porters. You can also tip as you wish based on the weight carried and the service provided.

What are the best seasons for trekking in Nepal?

The best time for trekking is the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During spring, wildflowers, including rhododendrons bloom all over the trails. The clear skies and stable weather is the major attraction of the trek.

The autumn months of September to November is famous for its soothing climate and favorable temperatures. In addition to these perks, autumn is also a festive season with vibrant festivals Dashain and Tihar falling at this time of the year. 

The monsoon and the winters are generally avoided because of the risks and the challenges.  

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Nepal

What are the basic criteria for physical fitness?

Many people assume that they need to have an athletic strength to complete treks in Nepal, which is not true. A basic level of fitness with good stamina can easily lead you to success in the trails of Nepal. 

Some cardio (aerobic) exercises, including hiking, cycling, swimming, tai chi, etc. can help you gain fitness before the start of your trek. One important thing to consider is that the treks are not a race, so you need to maintain a gentle pace with sufficient breaks and acclimatization. 

If your fitness levels are on the higher side, you will enjoy the treks more and find more energy for extra activities.

Can I do trekking solo without a guide and porter?

Yes, you can trek solo in Nepal without a guide or a porter on many routes. If you come well prepared with a map or traveling a well-trodden path, you can trek pleasantly in solitude.

However, some restricted trails like Manaslu Circuit Trek do require a guide by compulsion. But there are risks of traveling without a guide mostly related to health issues and freak weather conditions. 

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Without Guide

Can you list out the packing list for trekking?

The packing list for trekking in Nepal are as follows:

Clothing

  • Trekking pants and jackets
  • Rainproof pants and jackets
  • Thermals underwear
  • Pair of Gloves
  • Short-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Long-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Woolen cap/ beanies
  • Insulating jackets
  • fleece-lined jacket
  • Lightweight Sweaters 
  • Trekking boots

First Aid

  • Band-aids
  • Anti-nausea Medicines
  • Sanitary pads/ Tampons
  • Mosquito repellent spray or ointment

Toiletries

  • Toilet Paper
  • Shampoo 
  • Soap
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer

Accessories

  • Cameras
  • Water Bottle
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sunglasses
  • Chargers
  • Extra Batteries

Important Documents

  • Passport
  • Photo
  • Travel Permits

Can I recharge my camera batteries, phone, and other electronic batteries?

Yes, there are facilities for charging electronic gadgets like cameras, phones, and other electric batteries at an added cost. However, the charges are on the higher side, and charging time gets limited. Hence, carrying a solar-powered charger or power bank is a good option.

Can I get trekking gears and equipment on rent?

Yes, you can get any trekking gears and equipment on rent. The famous street of Thamel in Kathmandu is popularly known as “backpacker’s alley.” You can get all kinds of trekking gears and equipment, including sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking boots, for rent. 

There are many gears of knock-off brands that work surprisingly well. But you should always stay away from substandard stuff that might cause you nuisance along the trek.

Is laundry services available in teahouse?

There are a few laundry services available in places like Namche. However, in the high altitude region, these facilities get scarce. You will have to wash your clothes on your own in the sink. You can use a small amount of warm water to wash your clothes.

What is the weather like in Nepal?

There are five distinct seasons in Nepal. The summers are hot and wet, and the monsoons are wet with chances of landslides. The winters are cold with freezing temperatures in the high mountains. These seasons are not the best time to trek the region. 

The peak trekking seasons in Nepal are the autumn and the spring season. The autumn months come after the monsoon, and thus trekkers can enjoy the stable weather with perfect trekking temperatures. 

The spring is when the trails look its best. The beautiful wildflowers, including rhododendron bloom all over the trails and the scenic environment, makes the trek quite pleasant.

What types of trekking shoes or boots do I need to bring?

You will require waterproof, sturdy hiking boots for trekking the Himalayas in Nepal. There are various shops in and around Thamel in Kathmandu that lets you buy or rent specialized trekking shoes.

Trekkers do not necessarily require crampons, but if you are trekking on a snowy trail, crampons fitted trekking boots helps you get past the snow with ease. 

How will the travel company solve the problem in case of an emergency?

The guides and porters are adequately trained and skilled in handling emergencies. The travel agency is in communication with the team leader at all times through a mobile or a satellite phone. 

You will get immediate first aid and all necessary help if required. Helicopters are at standby positions in case the conditions get worse, and you need an emergency helicopter evacuation.

Are there any other outdoor activities besides trekking in Nepal?

Nepal is an adventure-lovers delight. There are many outdoor activities, including bungee jumping, paragliding, zip-lining, rafting, rock climbing, canoeing, jungle safari, and others in Nepal. You can choose the best one according to your desire and schedule.

How expensive or costly is to do trekking?

While the cost may vary according to the trails, in general, the cost of trekking ranges around $1000-$2500 on average, excluding the international flight costs. This cost includes food, accommodation, permits, guide/porter, and other fees.

Which were the trekking routes damaged by an earthquake in 2015?

The popular routes Annapurna Base Camp trek and the Everest Base Camp trek was not much affected by the earthquake in 2015. However, the pristine Langtang and Manalsu trekking region were severely affected. 

The landslide after the earthquake swept away many teahouses in the Langtang region, and more than 300 lives were lost. The quick rebuilding process led by the local community ensured that all the trekking routes get restored and repaired immediately. 

These trails are safer than ever for a trekking adventure. Trekking has since resumed in the Langtang region.

Where the most popular places to do trekking in Nepal?

There are many trekking trails in Nepal. Some of the famous trekking trails include the Everest Base Camp Trek in the Everest region. The Annapurna Circuit trek in the tranquil Annapurna region is also quite popular. 

The Upper Mustang trek, Manaslu trek, Langtang trek are also quite popular. Besides these, many off the beaten trekking routes are gaining popularity as well.

Does my guide carry a simple medical kit for general treatment?

Yes, the professional guides do carry a simple medical/ first aid kits. They are well trained and are adept at performing simple first aid if necessary. However, if the condition worsens, you will need professional medical help or even evacuation.

Do I need to carry a sleeping bag or not?

Although a warm blanket gets provided at the teahouses, carrying a sleeping bag is always a good option. The trails can get busy, and in freezing conditions, a single blanket might not be enough, and an extra blanket might not be available. Hence, a sleeping bag helps you get a good night's sleep after a long day of the trek.

What is the basic equipment do I need to bring for trekking?

The essential equipment you need to bring for trekking includes standard trekking gears and clothes, first aid kits, toiletries, and other accessories. The trekking gears and clothes include waterproof trekking jackets, sturdy boots, waterproof pants, gloves, and others. 

For first aid, you can pack band-aids, insect repellents, anti nauseant tablets, etc. You can also bring other accessories like a camera, charger, power banks, and others. 

Should I bring a tent or a mattress?

Since you will be staying in tea houses along the trek, a tent or a mattress is not necessary. The tea houses along the trail provide the facilities of bed, mattress, and blankets. 

However, if you wish to camp outside or want to trek the off the beaten remote trails, then you might need to bring your tent or mattress as the tea houses are scarce in these remote regions.

Where can I leave my personal stuff in Kathmandu when I am trekking?

You can leave your stuff in the guest houses and hotels where you will be staying in Kathmandu. These guesthouses have a unique service designed for trekkers who need to store their belongings while they go on a trek in the Himalayas. 

You can ask the caretaker to handle your backpack with care and also put up a large and visible name tag on the bags to avoid misplacement. The guesthouses readily agree to store your stuff as they can serve you further after your return from the trek.

How experienced is my trekking guide?

All our guides have been around the trekking scene for quite a while and are highly experienced. They are well equipped with proper knowledge regarding the trails and are quite pleasant and friendly. 

In case of any emergencies, the guides will prove to be a great helping hand as they are well versed in first aid. Many of them are fluent in English and other languages like French and German.

Are guides and porters insured in case of accidents while trekking?

Yes, all the guides and porters are duly insured with proper insurance in case of any accidents while trekking

Do guides and porters have proper gears?

Yes, guides and porters are well equipped with proper gear for the trek. The guides and porters are also provided with special medical/ first aid kits for emergency conditions.

Should I bring my personal medicine?

If you need to have certain medicines regularly, then you should bring your medicines on the trek. Besides that, you should also consult your doctor for any medication that you might need along the trek.

Do I need extra days in case of flight cancellation?

Adding a couple of days to your holidays is always a good idea. The flights in the Himalayan region are notorious for frequent delays or even cancellation based on the unfavorable weather conditions. A few additional days to your trekking adventure ensures that you can relax and trek without any hassle.

What is the visa cost for Nepal?

The new provision states that foreigners visiting Nepal on a 15-day multiple-entry tourist visa will have to pay $30 in fees. For a 30-day multiple-entry tourist visa, the cost is $50. The 90-day visa multi-entry tourist visas cost around $125.

Read More: The Complete Nepal Visa Guide 

Can I apply for the Nepal visa online?

Although most of the tourists apply for a visa on arrival, you can apply for the Nepal visa online in advance, as well. You can apply for the Nepal visa at most 15 days ahead of arrival in Nepal. The things required are the address of the hotel, a recent digital version of a passport-sized photo, and the filled application form online

Once you complete the submission process online, you can print out the confirmation receipt. You can display it to the Immigration officer upon your arrival at the airport and pay the proper amount to get your visa.

For further questions, please chat us online or contact us. We will get back to with answers as soon as possible.