Hike it like a local: Nepal Trekking 101

Where would one find a trekking adventure like the breathtaking Himalayan range for views while walking, savouring some fresh air, and sipping hot tea? 

Welcome to Nepal! With geography spanning from the tropical lowland plains of the Terai to the arctic-like conditions of the high Himalayan mountains, the nation offers some of the most rewarding trekking routes.  

The post-Covid resurgence of tourism has been strong, with trekking numbers near pre-Covid levels and 2023 arrivals only slightly below the 1.2 million peak of 2019.  

Favourable Times for Trekking 

So, when do we get to welcome most visitors? The months of October and November are the peak trekking season because of the mild temperatures, stable weather, and clear skies, providing superb mountain views. While high-altitude regions remain cold, lower elevations are warm, making daytime trekking temperatures pleasant. 

From late February to April is the second most popular time for trekking. The temperatures in spring are like fall, but there’s slightly more haze and precipitation. Clear mountain views often require reaching higher elevations, around 10,000 ft and above. Despite the increasing precipitation as spring progresses, the trails are less crowded, and festivals like Shivaratri, Holi, and Rato Machhindranath offer vibrant cultural experiences.  

Likewise, the second half of September and early December are excellent with the potential for peak season conditions and fewer trekkers. December is typically dry, stable, and clear but cold, especially at higher elevations. By mid-December, high-altitude trekking becomes risky, and many teahouses close.  

The winter, from December to early February, has the best conditions for off-season, low-altitude trekking. Since snow fills the higher regions, lower-altitude trails become more comfortable. Advantages of winter trekking include fewer tourists, lower costs, and clear skies on sunny days. The Terai region’s national parks, such as Chitwan and Bardia, offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities in late winter.  

From May to August is the least favourable time since the monsoon brings along heavy rains and potential flooding and landslides. The trails become muddy and disrupt ground transportation. Although exceptions are lower-elevation hill treks and the drier Mustang and Dolpo regions. 

Popular Trekking Routes  

Nearly 30% of visitors embark on treks on the popular Everest and Annapurna trails. The Manaslu Circuit and Langtang are also gaining popularity, while Mustang and Dolpo attract trekkers seeking longer adventures.  

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is a classic route offering breathtaking views of Mount Everest and a chance to experience Sherpa culture. It is best when visited in autumn and spring.  

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, where Annapurna 1, the tenth-highest mountain in the world, lies at an elevation of 8,091 m. The trek passes through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows, within the Annapurna Conservation Area. As of 2022, 365 people had summited Annapurna I, while 72 had died attempting it. The ABC trail receives 55,000 visitors annually.  

Annapurna Circuit Trek circumnavigates the Annapurna massif, offering wonderful landscapes and cultural experiences. Parts of the trail are now accessible by road, allowing exploration of side valleys in Manang and Mustang.  

Similarly, the Manaslu Circuit and Langtang Valley are also popular as less crowded alternatives to the EBC and ABC treks. These routes offer beautiful scenery and rich cultural experiences.  

And, for longer and more isolated excursions that offer a glimpse of traditional Tibetan culture, Mustang and Dolpo are ideal.  

Trekking Preparations  

To ensure a safe and memorable adventure in the Himalayas, it’s essential to plan. Book guides, flights, and accommodation in advance to secure your spot. Stay informed about weather conditions and be prepared for sudden changes, since climate change-induced erratic weather patterns are increasing. 

Pack suitable gear for the season, including warm clothing for cold nights and waterproof gear for potential rain. You can find staple Nepali foods, dal, bhat, and tarkari, over these trekking routes. 

On an important note, it is advised to be mentally prepared for proper acclimatisation to altitude sickness and always carry a first aid kit. Staying informed about avalanche and landslide risks in advance and planning accordingly can help avoid hazardous conditions. 

Safety Regulations and the Importance of Guides 

The Nepal Tourism Board made decisions to mandate guides for foreign tourists trekking here, effective since April 1, 2023, to enhance safety in adventure activities. This move comes as the restrictions on solo adventurers extend beyond Mount Everest. Besides, travellers venturing into remote areas are now required to hire a government-licensed guide or join a trekking group.  

The trekking industry often bears the costs of search and rescue operations for lost solo hikers. This regulation aims to prioritise trekker safety while also reducing the financial burden solo adventurers place on the industry.  

Dharmaraj Panthi from the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) acknowledges the positive impact of this act, noting a reduction in incidents and emphasising the importance of qualified guides for trekker safety. “The upcoming treks will be group-oriented, even if it’s a group of just two individuals, a tourist and a guide. This approach ensures safety and minimises potential risks.” He stated. 

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2019, 46,142 tourists engaged in solo trekking. Since the new regulation, accidents in other adventure activities like paragliding have also decreased, highlighting the effectiveness of safety protocols.  

The collective responsibility to prioritise safety and follow regulations is imperative in minimising risks and ensuring safer trekking and adventure experiences.  

Yes, trekking is not a picnic. It is demanding because it is daring. Yet all the blood, sweat and tears you endure reward you with breathtaking views and enriching cultural experiences. So come one, come all with your adventurous spirit to trek through Nepal’s trails and leave with a truly transformative experience. 

Sudipa Mahato is a junior editor with Nepal Connect.