General FAQs

In Nepal you can trek throughout the year.

• In Spring (Mar-May) you can trek to popular destinations like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley and more.
• In Summer (June-August) you can trek to the trans-Himalayan destinations like Upper & Lower Dolpo Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Kali Gandaki Trek, Rara & Phoksundo Lake.
• In Autumn (September-December), Nepal has the best weather window for all treks.
• In Winter (January-Feburary), we suggest foothill treks like the Panchse Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Pikey Peak Trek, etc.

Trekking in Nepal up to 5,000 meters, common for treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, exposes you to diverse conditions, from warm, humid lowlands to freezing, sometimes snowy, high-altitude passes. Layering is key! Here's a comprehensive list of required trekking gear:

1. Headwear:

• Sun Hat or Cap: Essential for sun protection at lower altitudes and higher up due to strong UV rays.
• Warm Fleece Hat or Beanie: Crucial for cold mornings, evenings, and higher elevations.
• Buff or Neck Gaiter: Versatile for warmth, sun protection, or dust filtering.
• Sunglasses: High-quality, UV-protective sunglasses are vital to prevent snow blindness and eye strain at altitude.
• Headlamp: With spare batteries, for navigating in lodges during power cuts or for early morning starts.

2. Upper Body (Layering System is Crucial):

• Base Layers (2-3 sets): Lightweight, moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool long-sleeve tops. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture.
• Mid-Layers (1-2 fleeces): A medium-weight fleece jacket or pullover for insulation. A heavier fleece might be useful for colder conditions.
• Insulated Jacket: A lightweight down or synthetic puffy jacket. This provides significant warmth without excessive bulk.
• Waterproof/Windproof Shell Jacket (Outer Layer): A breathable, durable jacket to protect against rain, snow, and strong winds. Look for Gore-Tex or similar material.

3. Lower Body:

• Trekking Pants (2 pairs): Lightweight, quick-drying synthetic pants. Zip-off pants (convertible to shorts) are highly recommended for versatility.
• Thermal Base Layers (1-2 pairs): Synthetic or merino wool bottoms for added warmth at higher altitudes or in cold evenings.
• Waterproof/Windproof Shell Pants: Essential for protection against rain, snow, and wind, especially on passes.

4. Feet:

• Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, well-broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support. This is your most important piece of gear.
• Camp Shoes/Sandals: Lightweight shoes or sandals for comfort around teahouses in the evenings, allowing your feet to air out.
• Socks (4-6 pairs):
  • Liner Socks (2-3 pairs): Thin, moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool to prevent blisters.
  • Hiking Socks (2-3 pairs): Medium-thickness, moisture-wicking wool or synthetic socks.
  • Warm Wool Socks (1-2 pairs): Thicker socks for cold nights or higher elevations.

5. Hands:

• Lightweight/Liner Gloves: Thin fleece or wool gloves for moderate cold.
• Warm/Waterproof Gloves: Insulated, waterproof, and windproof gloves or mittens for higher altitudes and colder conditions.

6. Accessories & Gear:

• Sleeping Bag: A good quality, down-filled sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C (14°F). Some prefer -15°C (5°F) for comfort at maximum altitude. (Often rentable in Kathmandu/Pokhara).
• Daypack (25-35L): For carrying daily essentials like water, snacks, camera, extra layers, and valuables.
• Duffel Bag (60-90L): For your main luggage, to be carried by porters if you hire them. Ensure it's durable and preferably waterproof or use a waterproof liner.
• Trekking Poles (Highly Recommended): Adjustable and collapsible poles significantly reduce strain on knees, especially on descents.
• Water Bottles (2 x 1L) or Hydration System: Crucial for staying hydrated. Consider insulated covers for cold.
• Water Purification: Tablets (e.g., Aquatabs, iodine) or a portable filter (e.g., SteriPEN, Lifestraw) for purifying local water.
• Basic First-Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment (Compeed!), anti-diarrhea medication, rehydration salts, personal medications.
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher) & Lip Balm (with SPF): High altitude sun is intense.
• Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, small quick-dry towel, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toilet paper (often not provided in teahouses).
• Power Bank/Portable Charger: For charging electronic devices where electricity might be limited or costly.
• Universal Travel Adapter: Many teahouses have various plug types.
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, chocolates for extra fuel.
• Documents: Passport, permits (ACAP, TIMS), travel insurance details, flight tickets, passport photos, cash (Nepali Rupees).
• Book/Journal & Pen: For downtime.

Important Notes:

• Layering: The most crucial aspect of dressing for high-altitude trekking is layering. This allows you to add or remove clothing easily to adapt to rapid temperature changes.
• Break in Boots: Ensure your hiking boots are well broken in before your trek to avoid blisters.
• Rent or Buy: Many items like sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you don't wish to buy them.
• Porter Allowance: If you hire a porter, remember they have a weight limit (typically 15-20 kg per porter for your main duffel bag), so pack wisely.