Whether trekking or driving through Nepal, the warmth and friendliness of the people is evident everywhere. 'Home Stay' tours and treks invariably include an evening in a family home – usually followed by cultural dances and displays.
The main Hindu religious festivals of Dasain and Tihar are held during October and November: when optimal temperatures and clear skies tend to prevail. (This is crowded high season).
The Buddhist Losar Festivals are held at different times:  January for the Gurungs in the Annapurna and Manaslu Districts and Tamangs in the Langtang and Ruby Valley Districts. February for the Sherpas in the Solu, Khumbu and Helambu Districts.

Trekking and Touring in Nepal

When is the best time of the year to visit Nepal?

  • To Trek

    The two main trekking seasons are: Spring (3rd week in February to end 1st week in May) and Autumn (3rd week in September to early December). This applies to all trekking routes. The most popular trails such as Everest and the Annapurnas are very crowded in March-April and more so from mid October to the end of November.
    During the Monsoon months, the weather in the rain shadow regions behind the High Himalaya is warm with flowers on alpine meadows. Mustang can be explored all year round, but is cold from mid December to 1st week in March. For Dolpo consider 2nd week in August to 1st week in October. Snow is likely from the 3rd week. In July. Flowers are abundant in the Langtang Valley – but cloud can limit mountain views.
    During Winter (December to February), short treks in the lower southern regions, such as Poon Hill in the Annapurnas or Helambu north of Kathmandu can be cold at night, but very rewarding.
    The Annapurna Sanctuary (Base Camp), Manaslu and Everest Base Camp treks are possible in winter: but will be very cold and the high passes can be tough. Our company offers a selection of treks that can be safely and enjoyably undertaken in every season.

    How air pressure decreases with the altitude Graph

  • To Travel by Road

    Autumn, winter and spring are good times to choose. Comfortable temperatures and clear skies are at their best after the monsoon months. October to December is our busiest tourist season.
    Winter is a good time to explore the Middle Hill and Terai region's landmarks: visit Chitwan National Park and Lumbini, birthplace of the Buddha.
    During the monsoon, flooding and damage to mountain roads can cause major delays. Leeches (whilst curious creatures) can add discomfort to wet lower trails. But Monsoon trekking can also be an adventure and unique experience.

  • To Experience the Culture and Festivals

    Despite recent earthquake damage, the Kathmandu Valley still has much to show of its rich cultural and architectural past. Hindu and Buddhist shrines and architecture abound throughout the region.
    Whether trekking or driving through Nepal, the warmth and friendliness of the people is evident everywhere. 'Home Stay' tours and treks invariably include an evening in a family home – usually followed by cultural dances and displays.
    The main Hindu religious festivals of Dasain and Tihar are held during October and November: when optimal temperatures and clear skies tend to prevail. (This is crowded high season).
    The Buddhist Losar Festivals are held at different times:  January for the Gurungs in the Annapurna and Manaslu Districts and Tamangs in the Langtang and Ruby Valley Districts. February for the Sherpas in the Solu, Khumbu and Helambu Districts.

Travel, Insurance, and Trekking Documents

  • Passport

    A passport, valid for six months beyond date of entry, and with blank pages for the Visa is required.
    Check that your passport is correctly stamped on arrival and departure to avoid possible complications. Also check the passport number and Visa dates – so as not to overrun the dates.

  • Visa

    Visas can be purchased on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Complete the Visa form, provide one recent passport size photo and pay for the visa in foreign cash.
    NB: Visas can only paid for in foreign notes: Preferably US$, but other major currencies are acceptable. Offer the correct amount: change is not always available! A single entry Visa, valid for 15/30/90 days will cost US$ 25/40/100. Visas may be extended, (only at the Immigration Offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara) to a maximum of 150 days in a calendar year. A minimum extension is US$30/15 days (to be paid in Nepalese rupees). Visa applications can now be pre-registered on line – but the system is not always in operation.
    Read the requirements and have a photo and all requested details available before starting the process. http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa

  • Vaccinations

    No vaccinations are required.

  • Personal documents

    Spare Passport Photos and Document copies
    Bring 6-8 recent passport photos for use on the Visa application, Visa extensions and Trekking Permits – that vary depending on region.
    Make Copies of your passport, including your visa pages. Leave a copy at home and carry a set with you (or trekking partner). Consider secure online data storage. Without copies, passport replacements can be very time consuming! Copies are also used for trekking permits.

  • Is Insurance needed for Trekking?

    Our guides are trained in first aid, carry a comprehensive medical kit and can deal with most of the problems encountered on treks. However, in the case of a serious accident outside help needs to be available.
    Thus, comprehensive insurance is essential and obligatory. We cannot take you trekking without full insurance cover; purchased in your home country. Such insurance cannot be purchased in Nepal.
    You need to have full, personal, travel insurance that covers personal belongings, trip cancellation plus medical rescue and evacuation insurance (for air ambulance and helicopter rescue services). You must carry the company's insurance policy certificate with you: it must include your name, address, policy number and the contact numbers and procedure for the company's rescue department.

  • What happens In case of an emergency?

    In case of a serious trekking accident: the insurance company will be contacted and they will take over the rescue process: sending in the necessary ground or air support. Without it, your trekking team would have to try to carry you out; possibly exacerbating your injuries. We will not risk that.
    Travel Nepal's staff are covered by our own full accidental and medical insurance cover.

  • Trekking documents

    Entry permits are required to each of Nepal's National Parks and Conservation Areas. The range from Rs 1000 – Rs 3000/entry. Additional trekking permits are required for Restricted Region treks. We will organise the permits for you on arrival.
    There are five Restricted Regions, all along or close to the Tibetan border that were opened to limited trekking post 1990. The aim: to conserve fragile environments and the cultures of the various Tibetan communities that had settled there. Fees are high and range from US$90 – $500 for a week or 10 days, then stiff daily amounts. These treks may only be undertaken with a professional guide and a minimum of two trekkers. Your original passport and extra photos are required. (These are for Upper Dolpo, Mustang, Nar-Phu, Tsum and Manaslu, Kangchenjunga)

Currency

  • Can I use credit Cards during a trek?

    Credit cards are fairly widely accepted in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Beyond that, some large towns and Game Parks may have facilities; but in villages, only local currency (Nepalese Rupees: Rs) is accepted.
    Take sufficient Nepali Rupees on your trek. Tips may be paid in Rupees or Dollars (with Rupees preferred by local porters in remote regions).
    NB: It is wise to pre-prepare/pack Rupees for Tips before leaving on your trek: especially if you are flying out of a region; as local porters will leave you at the airport on the last day.

  • What money should I carry on a trek and in what currency?

    Carry Nepalese Rupees on Trek. Teahouses will seldom deal in foreign currencies – as they loose on the exchange rate. If they do accept it, they are likely to give change in Rs.
    Your only expenses on the trek should be for hot showers (the cost rising with altitude), charging batteries, additional drinks and snacks, and the purchase of curios.
    It is illegal to purchase antiques in Nepal.

  • Do I need to give Tips to Trekking Staff?

    Tips are not obligatory, but are an accepted part of trekking. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of the team's work. Perhaps work from a base of 10- 15% of the cost of your trek with your guide receiving twice or more, the amount given to each porter/day.
    It may help to "work as a group" – placing the tips for Guide and each Porter in marked envelopes/bank bags and handing them to each one at a 'ceremony' at the end of your trek. Should you personally wish to give an additional amount to anyone who has been particularly helpful to you; do so (discreetly).
    It may be easier for groups to organise the tips before departing on the trek.

Trek

  • How fit do I need to be to trek in Nepal?

    Successful treks call for a slow, steady walking pace. People who trek too quickly or climb too high in a day are most likely to suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Expect to walk for 5-6 hours a day. Stops for rests and a leisurely lunch are added to this: 07:30 – ~16:00 is common. With a porter carrying your main luggage, you should only carry 3-5kg of warm or rainproof gear, water, sunscreen and a camera.
    Treks below 3 000m/9 850ft are unlikely to cause problems (Annapurna's Poon Hill ...). We schedule rest days (with local walks) to assist with acclimatisation for treks over 3000m. Then walk more slowly, for shorter distances as the altitude continues to rise. So, if you are able to walk for a few hours in hills at home; you should be able to trek to our homes, landmarks and spectacular scenic highlights. A regular walking or jogging programme, say three times a week, for a few months before your trip will ensure your readiness.
    NB: Our Budget Treks for people with limited time may be 'faster' than normal. Pre-fitness and stamina is called for.

  • When should I arrive for a scheduled trek?

    We recommend that you fly into Kathmandu and then spend two nights in the city before driving or flying to the trekking destination. This gives time for acclimatisation and a chance to check on kit while we arrange any necessary trekking permits. If time is limited, treks can begin on the day of your arrival or early the following day.

  • How many extra days should I allow in case of flight cancellations at mountain airstrips?

    Cloud and turbulent weather along the Himalayan ranges is common and may lead to internal mountain flight delays or cancellations. We suggest you add at least one extra day after your trek before flying out of Nepal. This only applies to treks in the, Dolpo, Mustang /Annapurna, Everest, Makalu and Kangchenjunga regions.

  • Who can Trek?

    Anyone who is reasonably fit and can walk for 5-6 hours a day in hilly country can trek in Nepal.
    Children from 5 or 6 up to 15 years are recommended to remain below 3 500m/11 500ft. From 15 years onwards they can tackle the higher routes.
    Some treks are more demanding than others, depending on the geography of the river valleys. For example, the Manaslu trek is more difficult than the Annapurna Trek due to its deeply incised valleys and the additional up-down climbing that this involves. The Manaslu trails are also more exposed in places with sheer drops to the river, often far below.
    Trails that begin low and gradually climb to high passes over many days may prove easier than those that begin high (from mountain airports) and offer less time for acclimatisation. Pre-fitness, stamina and a slow steady pace is always recommended.

  • What is the size of a trekking group?

    Our preference is for groups from 1 – 10 persons, but more can be accommodated on request. In the Restricted Regions (Dolpo, Mustang, Nar-Phu and Manaslu), a minimum of two persons: who must be accompanied by a registered guide, is obligatory.

Transport

  • Will someone meet me at the airport?

    After completing passport, immigration and visa requirements, we will meet you outside the terminal building and transfer you look for your name to your hotel. (Look for you name on our name board.)

  • What sort of transportation do you use?

    In the cities we use cars or a minibus.
    To and from treks we use local buses, mini busses or jeeps. This could depend on distance, terrain and group size.
    Internal flights are booked on one of Buddha, Yeti, Tara or Smirik Airlines. The companies run 18, 42 and 72 seater planes: the smallest servicing the tiny mountain airports. Main luggage limited to £ 15kg/person on the small planes.
    NB: Mountain flights are scheduled early in the morning and are subject to delays caused by weather conditions and visibility. We thus recommend that you add at least one extra day after your trek in case of delays.

What kinds of accomodation and meals are provided?

  • City hotels

    We generally use selected two star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara: on a bed and breakfast basis. On road tours we aim to offer hotels of a similar quality. You may upgrade on request.

  • Teahouse treks

    Friendly villagers along all the main trekking routes have built Teahouses on their properties for trekkers. They are simple, clean, offer good, safe, hot food and assure you of a warm welcome.
    Printed menus are often the same for all lodges along a trail. Creative cooks add spice and variety to your choices.
    Double rooms will have twin beds (with a sheet, pillow: and usually a duvet on request). Squat toilets may be in or outside the building. Washing facilities can be rudimentary and hot showers are not always available. On the more popular routes, the teahouses and their facilities are likely to be better. The higher you trek, the less likely you are to get hot water (from solar power or porter-carried-gas, as wood is unavailable).
    On all our treks we include full board and lodging, tea and coffee, fruit and snacks and safe drinking water.
    The cost of WIFI and charging batteries is not included.  Bottled drinks, snacks and curios will also be for your account.

  • Luxury Lodges

    are increasing in number along the Everest BC and Annapurna trails: at a price! Bedrooms may have attached bathrooms with hot water and "western fittings." Dining rooms are "upmarket." Locations with superb views are often included.  Luxury on EBC + ABC or the Circuit route

  • Camping expeditions

    Camping expeditions: are offered in areas where teahouse accommodation is not available. Upper Dolpo occupies 15% of Nepal; its population is < 5 000 Dolpopas. Full, self- contained, camping expeditions are essential here. Campsites are frequently "in the middle of nowhere" A magical region to discover with endless fascinating landmarks Portions of a trek to Makalu or Kangchenjunga in eastern Nepal require at least a few nights in tents. Full camping treks can be offered elsewhere: but campsites may be in teahouse grounds (spoiling the magic). Our camping expeditions include a chef, additional porters or a donkey team and are fully equipped with "Four Seasons" quality tents, a kitchen and a toilet tent (over holes dug for daily use). [Toilets can invariably be used in villages (or dig and cover a hole behind bushes – away from trails and water sources.)]

Napalese Dress And Etiquette

  • How about Nepalese Dress, Codes and etiquette?

    Nepali people are conservative in dress and it is frowned upon to show an excess of skin (and no nudity; never plunge naked into a river). Always wear a top and refrain from short shorts.
    An excess of affection is in public is also frowned upon.
    When visiting temples, monasteries and homes, wear long trousers or a skirt, shirt or blouse (with a scarf if it has shoulder straps) and remove your shoes before entering.
    Cows are sacred to Hindus: so also remove belts and other leather items before entering a Hindu Temple.
    Don't point the soles of your feet at a person or deity when sitting.
    It is disrespectful to pat a child (especially a young monk) on the head.
    Be discreet when taking photos; request permission for portraits and group shots. Refrain from a flash in buildings.
    Speak calmly to others; raising your voice will only make matters worse.
    When giving or receiving money or a gift, use your right hand and touch that elbow with your left hand as a mark of respect. This courtesy is often extended to handing plates or cups...
    Please do NOT encourage begging by giving pens, sweets, money etc. to children in villages. Rather give a donation to the village school.

Trekking Kit And Equipment

  • How about trekking kit and equipment facilities?

    Weight is a crucial factor when compiling your kit list. A porter may carry £ 15kg for each of two trekkers. This is also the baggage allowance on the small planes that fly to the mountain airports. You should carry only 3-5kg in a day pack: warm or waterproof gear, 2-3 litres of water, camera, hat and sunscreen (torch, book).
    Don't expect to be able to wash or dry kit each day. Wear what you have on again: everyone does, nobody notices..! Teahouse balconies all have washing lines. Bring a few pegs. Use layers of clothing to add warmth – with an outer windproof top.

  • Can I Purchase trekking equipment in Kathmandu before the trek?

    There are countless shops that sell all types of trekking gear in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. Quality varies – and 'top brands' are available in selected shops.
    NB I: It is advisable to arrive with good trekking boots that have been broken in. They are your most important item!
    NB II: Landmark Discovery Treks will provide you with a duffle bag, sleeping bag, down jacket and walking poles should you need them. Kit not required on the trek can be safely left (in a bag) at your hotel while on trek.

Electronic Equipment

Health

  • Vaccinations

    No vaccinations are required for entry to Nepal

  • Do I need to take prophylactic medication when in Nepal?

    Malaria is prevalent in the lowland Terai regions from March to September. If you are touring in the Terai during this time it is recommended that you bring prescribed medication.

  • What is AMS and how do I treat it?

    Acute mountain sickness is caused by your body's reaction to a shortage of oxygen. At 5 000m/16 400ft air contains half the oxygen present at sea level. A slow, steady ascent from comfortable altitudes generally allows your body sufficient time to 'acclimatise' – adjust your breathing to take in more oxygen. From 2 800m upwards, some people start to feel the effects of altitude.
    Symptoms are first noticeable in the brain or lungs and include headache, loss of appetite, nausea, coughing and fatigue. Admit to your symptoms – rest; don't continue climbing higher to sleep. If the symptoms get worse while resting, descend to a lower altitude. Rest until you feel better and then continue upwards slowly. Abandon your trek (not your life) if necessary. Tell your guide if you are not feeling well – and act on his advice.
    The prescription drug, Diamox, can assist with the prevention of AMS symptoms. It is a diuretic that increases respiratory rate and breathing depth (also urine flow); assisting acclimatisation by reducing headaches, nausea and improving sleep. Take ½ a tablet (125mg) or 250mg in 12 hours (fingers and feet may tingle; don't worry).

  • What happens if I get a sick in Nepal?

    Your guide will carry an emergency kit and is trained to deal with numerous situations. If necessary he can assist you with outside contacts.

  • Personal medication

    Bring any necessary personal medication with you. Include sunscreen, lip ice, plasters, etc. You will not be able to purchase these once you leave Kathmandu or Pokhara.

On Trek Questions

  • Do I need to bring water purifying tablets or a filter for a trek?

    You will need to bring two water bottles (for 2-3 litres). We will provide you with iodine or chlorine drops and safe drinking water as you need it.

  • What type of toilet facilities will there be available on trekking in Nepal?

    In cities, conventional "western toilets" will be found in most hotels. On trek, squat toilets are universal; and easy to use. Bring your own toilet paper (expect to place it in a separate bucket). Water and a ladle will be on hand for flushing. [If toilets become frozen in winter, holes will be dug out of doors!]

  • What are the facilities for washing on trek: is it possible to shower and wash my hair?

    Teahouses will have at least a tap outdoors and metal basins on request. "Showers" are often available – (possibly just a high pipe) and can be hot, warm or not. At high altitudes, ask for a bowl of hot water. Facilities are better on the popular trekking routes.

  • How do I keep myself and my personal kit dry if it rains while trekking?

    Use a good rain jacket with hood and a pair of waterproof trousers (overlapping your boots). A cap under the hood will keep rain out of your eyes. However, 'good' raingear can also be hot and clammy to wear.
    For kit inner plastic bags in your daypack will solve the problem. A waterproof cover over your daypack can help.
    Pack  kit in your duffle bag in (quiet) plastic bags. Your porters will also, effectively, shield your bag with plastic sheeting during rain or snow.

  • What weather and temperatures can I expect while trekking?

    With the range in altitudes in the Himalaya, weather prediction is notoriously difficult: expect the unexpected. Beautiful days, warm in the sun, are followed by colder nights.  From 1 000-3 500m temperatures may be 5o to 20oC; higher up they may be -10o to 20oC and above 5 000m -15o to 20oC. Wind chill causes temperatures to plummet. Winter temperatures (December – February) are commonly 10oC lower. Rain or snow can arrive without warning, throughout the year.
    Be forewarned and pack sufficient warm wind or rainproof gear in your pack each day.

  • Can I call Porters 'Sherpas?'

    The porters in Nepal are the backbone of the transport industry along mountain trails away from the southern roads. They come from all corners of the land. They carry their head-supported loads in baskets (dokos) or tied to the strap that goes around the head. 25–30kg is the recommended mass for trek porterage. However, porters will be seen cheerfully carrying immense loads up to their body mass or more and over great distances. Research has shown that the Nepalese have adapted to be able to do this with a minimal increase in their metabolism.
    The Sherpa people are of Tibetan origin and moved into the Khumbu (Everest), Solu and Helambu regions some 500 years ago. They became involved in the early mountaineering explorations of the late 19th and 20th centuries: and proved to be highly resourceful and successful. Today, many Sherpas continue to work as Mountaineers, Hoteliers – and porters.
    So while some Sherpas may be porters, it is incorrect to call all porters Sherpas. Porters carry goods. Please honour, care for and support your porters.

  • Is it safe to visit Nepal and are the cities safe to walk in?

    You may get shaken by the ground, but the cities, villages and trails are everywhere safe. Kathmandu's streets are seething with people and vehicles and progress is slow. But courtesy and kindness is universal. Take the normal precautions with wallets and cameras and be more vigilant at night.

  • I have trekked to Everest BC. What would you recommend as a challenging new trek?

    Your EBC trek began at over 2 000m. Consider a trek that begins low and takes you through Middle Hill Hindu and Buddhist farming communities before rising towards the giants. A great trail with an exhilarating mix of scenery is the 140km Manaslu Circuit Trek that begins at 700m. Its topography is demanding and the trails are often exposed; but if offers some of the best scenery in the Himalaya. Add in the seven day Tsum Valley trek. The Annapurna Circuit would be an easier (and more crowded) circuit trek option.
    Other great options include the Kangchenjunga Trek on Nepal's eastern border or the sparsely populated high Dolpo camping trek in western Nepal behind the Dhaulagiri Range.

  • I have heard: "Everyone should undertake a trek in Nepal during their lifetime." Why?

    In many ways, Nepal is unique. Its gentle and friendly people offer visitors a warm and sincere welcome. Its scenery changes from humid lowland jungles and farmland through forested hills to the ice capped giants of the High Himalaya in a distance of only 200km. Once away from the roads, the village trails are quiet: the only sounds being water, wind and birdsong or the quiet conversations of villagers going about their business. The further into the mountains you trek, the more dramatic the scenery becomes and a sense of awe is often the only response possible.
    So listen to your friends and contact us to design your first trek: for few people are satisfied with only one visit.

  • We want to do something different for our honeymoon what can you suggest?

    Congratulations! Depending on your time and sense of adventure you could consider an overland tour from Kathmandu to explore Pokhara and then continue south to Lumbini, birthplace of the Buddha before continuing to the Chitwan National Park with elephant rides, a canoe trip and jungle walks.
    If you are both fit and looking to trek, then consider a trek with luxury accommodation to Everest Base Camp, or a shorter trek to the Annapurna Base Camp: both with spectacular and 'close up' glacial scenery.
    Do we have to join a group or can you arrange a private honeymoon package?
    It will be our pleasure to offer you a private tour on whichever route you choose. A car with chauffer (and a guide?) could take you on the overland route. A flight to Lukla or Pokhara with your guide and then the addition of a porter would complete your trekking party.

Garbage, Litter and Water Control

  • Don't litter, don't pollute

    The official governmental guide to trekking states:
    Let the Himalayas change you – Do not change them, so remember, while you are trekking to:
    Leave campsites and resting places cleaner than you have found them.
    No open fires are permitted.
    Burn dry papers and packets in a safe place.
    Carry all plastic out with you.
    Keep local water clean and avoid using pollutants.
    Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment.
    Help your guides and porters to follow conservation measures We believe wholeheartedly in these rules and request that you join us in our efforts to improve our trekking routes and landmarks in every possible way.
    Thus, we ask you not to:
    Drop tissues, sweet papers, packets or plastic items: carry them to our next destination for correct disposal.
    Do not discard cigarette ends or matches and be very conscious of the dangers of fire.
    Do not throw items into Teahouse fires or ovens: it may be offensive on religious grounds 
    Do not squat behind bushes or rocks anywhere near a stream.
    Dig a hole and cover it properly before leaving. Preferably burn the paper, carefully.

Travel, Insurance and Trekking Documents

  • What about travel, insurance and trekking documents?

    Entry permits are required to each of Nepal's National Parks and Conservation Areas. The range from Rs 1000 – Rs 3000/entry. Additional trekking permits are required for Restricted Region treks. We will organise the permits for you on arrival.
    There are five Restricted Regions, all along or close to the Tibetan border that were opened to limited trekking post 1990. The aim: to conserve fragile environments and the cultures of the various Tibetan communities that had settled there. Fees are high and range from US$90 – $500 for 7 or 10 days, then stiff daily amounts. NB: Permits are for trekking days, not trekking nights: thus a 10 day permit means in on Day 01, out on Day 10, after 9 nights.
    Restricted Region treks may only be undertaken with a professional guide and a minimum of two trekkers. Your original passport and extra photos are required. (These are for Upper Dolpo, Upper Mustang, Nar-Phu, Tsum Valley,  Manaslu and Kangchenjunga)