Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trip Style: Trekking
  • Transport: Public Vehicle
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
  • Group Size: 2 - 16
  • Max Elevation: Ponker Lake (4100m)

Highlights

  • Ponker Lake (4100m), one of the most beautiful lake in Nepal 
  • View of Mt. Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world and other breathtaking mountain scenery
  • Less Crowded Trekking Route
  • People and their culture
  • The Natural beauty and Biological diversity

Description

Mention Trekking in Nepal and the first thing your head hits is Everest Base Camp. In that scenario, even Annapurna makes the way to your mind. All thanks to their widespread popularity amongst tourists, the challenges, of course, create the most fuss. 

Knocking the likes of these trekking spots, the one to spring up and command notability is Ponker Lake Trek. This small-scale lake in the Bimthang, has a glorious sight to offer to travelers along with the adventure.  

Yet, the most thrilling trek of Nepal, Ponker Lake Trek also happens to be the most underrated trekking destination known so far. This beautifully conserved lake has till now seen the least of the crowd with little applause from the global platform. 

The place still stuns the trekkers with its astonishing view, differing topography, and wildland. Only the lake celebrates its belle with the pillowy mountains embracing its every visitor. Now you can imagine how grand welcome one will receive while walking the Manaslu area through Bimthang. 

Up until now, Ponker Lake Trek hasn’t had sole victory bringing a swirl of domestic and international tourists. Even so, the place has had a guest every so often being a part of the Manaslu Conservation Area Project.

10 Days Ponker Lake Trek Itinerary

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Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our officials will place you at the hotel. Not to surprise but first, you’ll get a warm welcome and a drive to your dwelling place.

For relief to such an exhausting flight, we’ll let you have your space but it has to be miniature. You can relax and even take a quick nap before getting refreshed and have lunch.

After scooping the much-needed energy, we’ll drive to Besisahar which’s 175.8 km away from Kathmandu. The drive carries on for about 5 hours before you reach this small village.

Besisahar is the point from where the Annapurna circuit trek begins in the first place. Till the time we find the bus to Nagdi, you can dash to a teahouse nearby and get something to eat.

On the far side of Besisahar, you get a mesmerizing view of the Himalayas with local wildlife and vegetation. By the time you’ll reach Nagdi, you’ll have already learned so much about the culture and values there.

Since it’s impossible to continue the journey ahead, we’ll leave it for the day. You’ll feel less drowsiness today having skim over 6 hours of walk. 

  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 930m

What would be a great way to start your trek to Ponker Lake other than Chyamje, a classic trek route. Starting from the early morning, you’ll walk the trails leaping over Dumre through the dense forest.

The route will see you scrambling overhead on terraced land, crossing rivers, and beautiful waterfalls. Arriving at Dumre, you’ll whirl north to the Marsyangdi Nadi Valley and take a rough road from there.

Soon you’ll roll up a hydroelectric project after which ascends to Syange that lies at an elevation of 1080m. From here, you’ll take a trail to Jagat which goes across the river to a ridge.

After 6-7 hours of walk from Nagdi, you’ll finally reach Chyamje. Stay overnight at the village and pull up as you still have a journey to make ahead. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1700m

Pull up your socks as it’s going to be a long day today. After a reposeful night at Chyamje, you’ll have a tedious day today, having to walk up to Dharapani to reach the Ponker Lake.

However, before continuing the journey, you’ll at the least have a morning meal at your lodge. It will keep you energetic and you won’t get tired before the start of the excursion.

Walking to Dharapani, you’ll witness lots of high hills and deep forest that illuminates with flowers in spring. Going ahead the trail, you’ll find a tranquil river flowing across the edge and passing rural villages.

On the way to the Marsyangdi Valley that can be discerned underneath the trail, you’ll find rhododendron gracing the entire forest. It won’t take long from here before you reach Dharapani.

Make a quick run to one of the lodges in the village to stay the night. Upper Dharapani has an ACAP checkpoint where you’ll have your Annapurna permit inspected. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1963m

Time to wake up and have breakfast at the lodge as you don’t want to run late from the start of the trek. Today, you’ll be ascending till to an altitude of 2510m to Gowa, a historical and rural cultural village.

From the early morning, you’ll start tracking the route to Gowa through a rocky path. The trip ahead will have you ascend the hill and forest rich with wildlife and unique vegetation.

You’ll be scrambling the rough trail for nearly 6 hours to arrive at Gowa, your endpoint for the day. No way you can continue the journey ahead as it gets too late by the time you reach the village. Hence, it’s best you find a dwelling place in Gowa and spend the night there. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 2510m

One more village to get across before reaching Bimthang. But the day is going to be a lot exciting far from any other having to come across the lush green forest.

Travelers are usually fond of the place as it acquaints them with beautiful landscapes, diverse topography, and wilderness. Traveling highland across the bushes and rocks, you’ll eventually run into primordial villages of the region.

Along the route to Yak Kharka, you’ll have the panoramic view of Annapurna II and Annapurna. This truly will ease your journey until the time you reach the village. With this, you call it for the day and stay the night at a lodge in Yak Kharka. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3020m

Unlike Samdo, Bimthang lies on the next side of the pass. It rests in a majestic valley encompassed by the dazzling mountains that work perfectly. On your stop here, there’s a good chance you get to spot the other side of Manaslu.

Hence, to come across such a scenic view, you need to start trekking from the very early morning. Have breakfast at the lodge in Yak Kharka and stick to the trail that you had been walking the previous day.

Soon you’ll be ascending the hills along the forest, rushing streams and lakes. As you walk further, you’ll find green pastures that bound over the forest trail and the sterile land. With this, you’ll arrive at Bimthang which is also your dwelling place for the night. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3590m

It’s really amazing how far you’ve come but there’s still a long way to go. To be candid, it’s the mighty Ponker Lake that you’ve to make it on the Day 07 of the trek.

Ponker Lake is one celestial place with sublime beauty and pastoral mountains. It’s a part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek route and to reach you’ve to get through Bimthang.

The trail will see you making way to the lake through the mustard field and meadows graze by yak. You’ll then cross the Larke Pass from Arughat and uphill for about 1.5 hours before arriving at the lake. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3590m

From now on, you’ll retrace your step and return to the point where the trek started from. Of course, you’ll start the day with a full spirit but downtime is a must for physical stability.

And what better could be other than a tea break to endure the challenges. Hence, you’ll have breakfast at the lodge and start descending the hills.

With the delightful picture of wildlands, green pastures, and snowy peaks ahead, you’ll have an awesome expedition. After reaching Gowa, you’ll be resettled at a lodge so that you get a good sleep. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 2510m

Your trek to Ponker Lake is about to get over with just a village to pass by. Starting from the early morning of the 9th day of Ponker Lake trek, you’ll walk to Chyamje from Gowa.

Strolling down from 2510m altitude will clearly offer you an incredible sight, never to forget. It will have you a natural majesty to relish to with a heart-melting view of the valley and forest.

As you continue walking the trail, Chyamje will be right in front of you. Spend the night at a lodge in the village and get a much-needed rest. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1700m

It’s hard to accept but your trek to Ponker Lake is nearly at its finish line. Today you’ll bid farewell to the region and get ready to return to Kathmandu.

Till the time you catch your bus, it’s better that you sightsee the valley, and even interact with the locals. After having breakfast at the lodge in Chyamje, you’ll take a drive to Kathmandu Valley.

On your way home, you’ll spot the mountains and green hills for one last time. As soon as you get into the valley, we’ll drive you to your hotel.

You can relax there for a minute and get yourself a delicious meal. That being so, pack your stuff and get ready as we’ll drop you to the airport before your flight takes off.

Keeping everything in order, we’ll receive you a few hours before the time of the flight. Don’t worry, we’ll even assist you throughout your time at the airport. We hope you enjoyed your time in Nepal and with that expect to see you soon. 

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • 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
  • Round Trip Local Bus Ticket (Kathmandu to Chaymje)
  • English Speaking Trekking Guide with Insurance, Transportation, Food and Accommodation
  • All Trekking Permits (ACAP, MCAP, Tsum Valley Permit and Manaslu Special Permit)
  • Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed)
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner 
  • 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
  • Extra night accommodation 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

Useful Information

Best Time for Ponker Lake Trek

Given the elegance and natural wonder of the Manaslu, trek to Ponker Lake is admissible any day. You can travel to this magnificent lake throughout the year in view of its difficulty level. 

Still, it’s best if you visit the lake in Autumn as it rules all seasons in Nepal. With the start of September, travelers start rolling to the region, hat tip to its mesmeric view. 

There’s a lovely atmosphere throughout the avenue which relaxes the trekkers. Place forward is the show of wildflower sprouted all over the dense forest. Speeding up to the lake, you’ll find greenery everywhere with the gust of cold wind blowing all through the place. 

For those who’ve missed out Autumn, better book the trip for Ponker Lake in Spring. The season is the other most liked time of the year and has a soft spot in every trekkers’ heart. 

It’s one of the most magical times when the entire Manaslu appears paradise. Nearly everyone in and away from the region enjoys Spring for its fresh air and sweet-scented flowers. 

With the blue sky atop, you get the famously picturesque view of the lake and mountains nearby. Nothing compared, Spring has warm weather in the day with a chilly night and morning. 

Winter in Nepal also has a decent number of tourists passing by the Ponker Lake. The experience is decidedly unusual traveling this time with freezing weather. 

Still, it’s a much better place to be than Monsoon with the rain drizzling all day long. Travelers are put to the test with the temperature getting as low as -8.8 Degree Celsius. 

Nothing to take away but Monsoon is the least favorite season among tourists visiting Nepal. It’s a few of those times when travelers have little to do as the rain pours all day. Following the damp trails, you’ll skid all the time and can’t scramble to the lake. 

Ponker Lake Trek Difficulty  

As vast as the region is, the small is the lake with only just challenges to overcome from Bimthang. Compared to other trek spots in Manaslu, Ponker Lake trek might be the least challenging of all with most thrill and fun.

Even if it sees the traveler making way to the lake for about 10 days, the strain is not even a bit. One can easily trace the step in the trail and make it to the top with a little help from the guide. 

You don’t need extra counseling or else be supervised by your guide right through the way. As it happens, the trek is pretty accomplishable for the starters as well who’ve no early experience of trekking. 

Saying so, the travelers who’ve already conquered a much difficult trail will find the Ponker Lake Trek a piece of cake. They will have a much easier time, walking the lumpy routes. 

To fill your day with elation, there’s the epic natural splendor of the lake with gleaming mountains. For a treat, you get to discern the cultural diversity with the cordial relationships among different ethnic groups living here. 

Just in case the weather gets awful and starts acting harshly, it’s better you come prepared. You need to be very cautious in winter as it gets too cold while you approach the lake.

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 Everest Base Camp Trek or any other trekking in Nepal?

Yes, a training regime at least two weeks before the Everest base camp trek is ideal. 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.