Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Camping Trek
  • Transport: Private Vehicle & Flight
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge & Camping
  • Group Size: 16
  • Max Elevation: Kagmara La Pass (5115m)

Highlights

  • You will explore the biggest lake of Nepal- Rara Lake.
  • Enjoy the soft breezes of Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal.
  • Shey Gompa, a 12th-century monastery in Dolpo.
  • Bon dance and other cultural activities.
  • Explore around the Rara National Park as well as the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Description

Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trekking is one of the most popular trekking routes of western Nepal. Going on this trek provides an excellent chance of walking through beautiful terrains and valleys, tranquil lakes and adventure pass along with scenic views of the mountains.

The major attraction of Upper Dolpo to Rara trek are two major lakes i.e. Rara Lake and Shey Phoksundo. This trek is a proper blend between Nepal’s largest and small National Parks. You can explore the Shey Phoksundo National Park and Rara National Park varying with elevation, landscapes, and lifestyle of people.

Dolpo Rara Trek is a wonderful walk from grassy alpine pastures to arid barren landscapes and remote beautiful settlements and villages. You can also visit several old ancient Buddhist monasteries while the magnificent sight of mountains along the trails keeps the feet moving and soul-soothing.

The Upper Dolpo to Rara Trek starts with a flight to Nepalgunj ending at Juphal village. Juphal village is the entry point to the Dolpo region. You will follow the trekking trail to Shey Phoksundo Lake passing through the rusty roads, farming lands and traditional villages. After reaching the Shey Phoksundo Lake region, you will get boarded on nearby lodges for resting. 

After doing the sightseeing at Shey Phoksundo Lake, you will follow the trekking trail towards Pungmo. Passing the Pungmo village you will walk towards the Kagmara La Pass and then towards Jumla. Walking past Jumla, you reach Guruchi Lagna Pass located at 3480m. You will follow the trekking trail and reach Rara Lake. It is located at 3010m. Then you will finally descend your way back to Talcha airport. From Talcha airport, you will take a flight to Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu.

Conclusion:

You can also extend the trek as your schedule. This is the full itinerary of Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek. We can change the routes according to your choices. Mount Mania provides you with a complete plan of your trek and takes you through a hassle-free journey.

20 Days Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek Itinerary

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On this day, we take an hour's flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in Western Nepal. Nepalgunj is a town near the Nepal-India border. It is the gateway to Simikot of Humla. The town itself is an interesting Terai town in Nepal. Some sightseeing places in Nepalgunj include Muslim bazaar, Mini Zoo. You can also take a walk into nearby villages. 

  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Altitude: 150m

From Nepalgunj, we fly to Juphal. This is where we start the Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek. On arrival in Juphal, we trek towards Sulighat which is at an altitude of 2282m. It is a 3 hours trek from Juphal. Overnight at Sulighat.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 2282m

Early in the morning, we will start our trek from Sulighat towards Amchi Hospital. Amchi hospital is located at an altitude of 3100m. After walking for 6 hours we will reach our final destination of the day. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3100m

On this day we will trek from Amchi towards Ringmo. Ringmo is a traditional village located at an altitude of 3641m. It takes around 4 to 5 hours from Amchi to reach Ringmo. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3641m

This is a day of rest on your trek. We will go around Phoksundo Lake. We will explore around the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. The lake is famous for its striking turquoise color and amazing scenery. You can also explore beautiful glaciers that can be found near and above the lake area. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3641m

On this day we will trek from Phoksundo Lake to Pungmo. It is located at 3500m. You will walk in a beautiful trail for 5 to 6 hours to reach Pungmo. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3500m

You will leave Pungmo early in the morning. It takes about 4 to 5 hours from Pungmo to reach Lasa. Lasa village is located at an altitude of 4060m.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 4060m

On this day we cross the Kagmara La Pass located at 5115m. Getting on the top of Kagmara La, the pass can be seen with hundreds of prayer flags. A stunning vista of surrounding mountains can be seen from the top of the pass. We will make our way towards Kagmara Phedi located at 3500m. Overnight at Kagmara Phedi. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3500m

Early in the morning, we walk towards the Toijum. Toijum is located at an altitude of 2920m. After walking for 6 hours from Kagmara Phedi we reach Tojum. We spent the rest of the night in Toijum.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 2920m

From Toijum we walk on the trail Hurikot and then to Kaingaon. There is a Bon monastery in Hurikot and Kaingaon. It is a beautiful village where you can have a view of the dense forest of pine. The trail goes uphill through the village called Thapa gaon and we finally reach Chaurikot.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3060m

We will go through the ascending trail from Chaurikot towards the pass Maure Lagna pass. It is located at an altitude of 3894m. Then the trail goes descending to Chotra through the forest with mixed species of plants. We can experience the nice scenic views around the trail. Overnight at Chotra.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3380m

We start our trek early in the morning towards Gothichaur. A slightly longer walk passes a few houses, and going via the irrigation channel, we can see the amazing hills. The camp is 200m below at a sheep meadow known as Gothichaur (2650m). Stay overnight at tented camp

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 2650m

On this day we trek from Gothichaur to Jumla. Jumla is located at 2540m and it takes around 6 hours to reach Jumla from Gothichaur. You can see several villages and the motorable road under construction.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 2540m

On this day we will start our trekking from Jumla. The trail goes straight and one can experience the social lifestyle of the region. The trails slightly ascend after the walk of 3 hours.

After walking for 4 hours and passing a small pass Danphe Nangla you will reach the village Khaligaon. There are some interesting activities that we can observe during our stay in the village. There are hotels and tea houses available to refresh.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3685m

Early morning you will leave Khali Gaon and walk towards Chautha. After walking past some villages for 5 to 6 hours you will reach Chautha. You will have an overnight in Chautha.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 2807m

Our path continues climbing gently to Ghurchi Lagna pass (3480m). The pass is covered with an assortment of chortens (round stone Buddhist monuments) and prayer flags. From the pass, the route descends gently at first before dropping down precipitously through spruce forests. The trail reaches to Rara lake located at 3010m. The trail goes through a beautiful field. This trail provides fantastic sightseeing of the place.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3010m

This is a rest day and we will explore the biggest lake of Nepal. Rara, known as the biggest lake of Nepal that gives relief with its magnificent look. The lake is surrounded by different kinds of flowers and forests that can be seen by the side. Cycling and boating facilities are also available. You can find hotels in this area. And camping is also available.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3010m

On this day we will hike up to the top of Murma with a packed lunch. We will walk on the trail that goes through pine forest. We can have the view of the whole lake and the villages and some mountains from the top of Murma. We will descend our way back to Rara and spend the rest of the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 3010m

Early in the morning, we walk the trail that goes through the jungle. The tails go by the side of the lake through the Army barrack and National Park office. After walking for an hour and a half the trail ascends and then it goes downwards to reach you to the airport.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Altitude: 2735m

This is the final day of our Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek. There will be our representative at the airport in Nepalgunj who will help you to get the flight to Kathmandu and similarly our representative will pick you up from the airport and drop in the hotel in Kathmandu. 

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Altitude: 1320m

What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop (Domestic Terminal)
  • Camping and Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Round Trip Flight Ticket (Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, and Jhuphal)
  • Flight Ticket (Talcha to Nepalgunj)
  • English Speaking Trekking Guide with Insurance, Transportation, Food and Accommodation
  • Porter with Insurance, Transportation, Food, and Accommodation
  • Cooking Staff and Helper 
  • All Camping equipment like Tents and Kitchen equipment
  • All Necessary Trekking Permits (Upper Dolpo Special Permit, Lower Dolpo Special Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park, Rara National Park)
  • 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 Helpers

Useful Information

Food and Accommodation in Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek

The food is quite basic as this trek is fully-catered camping. Being a remote area, it is difficult to maintain accommodation and food. You can find some basic teahouse/lodge accommodation is available in some villages. However, you shouldn’t be relied upon as it might not be available.

Upper Dolpo and Rara are known to have food shortages. You should take as much food as you can. Your food and accommodation will be taken care of by us if you go on an organized trek.

How Difficult is Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek?

Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trekking is a moderate trek and is appropriate for any level of trekkers. With the basic level of fitness, beginners and intermediate level trekkers can easily complete this trek. You possibly need to hike for 4 to 6 hours over hilly terrain with a light day pack. It will be easy for you if you have previous high altitude trekking experience.

When is the Best Time Upper Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek?

The best time for Upper Dolpo to Rara trek is during Spring that falls in March to May and autumn i.e September to November. These seasons are considered the perfect season for the trek. You can complete the trek in a clear atmosphere. The temperature is also appropriate which makes the trek easier than in other seasons.  

Going on a trek during monsoon season i.e. June to August might be unsafe because of over precipitation. There are chances of landslides and the flights might get canceled due to heavy rainfall. 

The thick fogs and heavy snowfall in the winter season i.e December to February make the trek difficult. So it is better to avoid the trek during winters.

Upper Dolpo Rara Lake Trek Permits and Regulations

The rules are quite strict for Permits in this region. Permits for Upper Dolpo are expensive and you also need to buy a permit for Lower Dolpo, which you pass through on your way to Upper Dolpo.

Only 250 foreigners get the permit to enter Upper Dolpo each year.

  • Lower Dolpo Permit Cost: $10 USD per week
  • Upper Dolpo Permit Cost: $50 USD per day (10-day minimum)
  • Rara National Park entry permit fee for foreigners: 3,000 NPR + 13% VAT, totaling 3,390 NPR 
  • Rara National Park entry permit fee for SAARC nationals: 1,500 NPR
  • Shey-Phoksundo National Park: Rs 1000

It is compulsory to trek with a guide on an organized tour in Upper Dolpo and Rara. Your tour operator will arrange all the permits. The permit fees are generally included in the total cost of your trip.

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.