Ornamented with the eight highest snowy jewels of the world, Nepal is a paradise for all mountaineers, trekkers, and explorers. It’s no surprise that a large number of trekkers visit Nepal each year to conquer these giants.
Nepal is the Hubspot for nature lovers who are adventure enthusiasts that enjoy spending quality time surrounded by beautiful Himalayan ranges and are up to face any difficulties. However, trekking amidst these wonders of wilderness requires a lot of caution and there are several things to consider while undertaking this long haul.
But don’t worry! We have got your back!
We have put together a few travel tips for the best treks in Nepal that covers all the tips and tricks you need to know before embarking upon this alluring adventure.
Travel Tip 1: Over-packing hurts
You might find a 10 kg backpack not much of a big deal strolling around the cities, but it’s a nightmare climbing uphill among the mountains with that weight.
While trekking in Nepal, it is preferable to live a minimalist lifestyle. All you need is fewer but reliable things! Sorry, but gravity doesn’t entertain extra luxuries.
People tend to overpack when it comes to clothes, so reconsider everything you put into your backpack. Trekking with only the essentials is a game-changer, hence we advise not to bring any jewelry, accessories, or extra electronics that are unrequired.
Your backpack is your best buddy and make sure you gear it up with these life-saving essential items:
Good footwear
There are many up and down trails in a trek. So, make sure to grab some decent shoes with you because you will be walking numerous kilometers in a single day in adverse terrain and weather conditions. Lightweight, comfortable, waterproof shoes or boots with proper grip are vital. Most importantly, ensure the footwear is a perfect size, neither too tight nor too loose, to avoid blisters.
Moreover, during high-altitude climbs, it’s crucial to protect your legs and feet from the snow, as you’ll be stuck in ankle-deep snow for longer which may lead to serious frostbites.
Water Bottle
Everything, including drinking water, becomes more expensive as you ascend. Keeping yourself hydrated throughout your journey will keep you going. You will come across various water resources with access to drinking water, so bring your water bottles and replenish it regularly. You can carry sterilizers of your choice to purify water that has been drawn directly from a source. Carrying a water bottle also helps to reduce plastic pollution, which is common along hiking and trekking trails.
Power banks/portable chargers
In the lodges and teahouses, charging your phone or any other electronic device costs extra. It’s a good idea to keep your portable charger or power bank with you so that you may charge it whenever and wherever.
Warm clothes and towels
Whether it’s summer or winter or any other season, it’s always cold out there. It is extremely important to wear and carry warm clothes. Clothes and multifunctional clothing that protect your neck, face, and legs from extreme cold, wind, and sun are of great value while trekking. You should consider carrying waterproof and windproof jackets. Also make sure to carry jackets that are light, warm, and packable.
You can carry along towels that are light and take no space. Microfiber towels do the best work while trekking.
Besides these, rain cover for a bag, sunscreen, and toiletries are important. But don’t overpack!
Travel Tip 2: Enough Cash is a savior
Planning and budgeting matter while trekking. Carrying adequate (or additional) cash should be a part of the plan too. We can’t anticipate ATMs or banks to be found along most trek routes. So, the most likely scenario is to spend the cash you are carrying. Rather than carrying less cash, it’s always a good idea to estimate and carry enough. Additionally, divide up the cash and put it in various parts of the bag and on your apparel.
However, you must be extra cautious with your money and other belongings.
You can check the budget estimation for several treks and expeditions on the website of Wild Yak Expeditions.
Travel Tip 3: Attitude of Altitude
Altitude sickness becomes more probable when we go to higher elevations due to lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their fitness level, experience, or age. While ascending, you may experience fatigue, dizziness, headaches, a loss of appetite, and other symptoms.
Even climbing too quickly can cause sickness to surface. So, make sure you trek slower on higher altitudes. You must maintain average speed while walking.
However, altitude sickness can be avoided with adequate hydration, a slower trekking pace, and the use of respiratory stimulants like Diamox. Acclimatization becomes very vital. Consumption of alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco can deplete the water level in your body and make you feel weary, so make sure to avoid those too.
Walking while having the symptoms of altitude sickness is perilous. It should not be taken for granted. You should avoid symptoms and weaknesses at all costs. Local people of that region, especially experienced former climbers (Sherpas) can assist you, if you require medications and consultations.
Thus, to maintain a good pace of the journey and to cope up with the changes in the altitude, a flexible itinerary plan is essential. Consult the Wild Yak Experts to obtain the most optimized trek plans for all levels of trekkers.
Travel Tip 4: Early Preparation and a Positive Mindset
Trekking for 7-8 hours a day for several days is a challenging endeavor, not only physically but mentally as well. Trekking to the mountains while carrying a big rucksack and wearing warm clothing puts your fitness and endurance to the test. As a result, walking up and down with a loaded backpack as part of your pre-trek preparation will improve your stamina and endurance. Due to the high altitude, a trekker may have an oxygen deficit. As a result, early preparation, a few aerobic workouts, and a ready mindset can benefit you for the best.
Travel Tip 5: Not having a TIMS card, permits, and park fees might get you into trouble
Make sure you have all of the proper permissions and permits as it is one of the most important travel tips for trekking in Nepal. Each region and national park in Nepal has its unique set of rules and regulations, so it’s worth taking the time to learn about the most recent revisions before hitting the trails.
Most treks require a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System), which you can obtain through Nepal Tourism Board offices. Fees may be required and could vary accordingly in some national parks and conservation areas.
As a result, it is preferable to have information about the fees and permissions beforehand, to ensure a hassle-free adventure.
Above all, refrain from becoming unduly ambitious. Trek only to the extent that one’s trekking ability, experience, and endurance allow. In addition, not all treks are long and you can have a similar level of thrill in short treks as well.
Things to keep in mind
● Acclimatization becomes very vital. So, don’t rush your journey and move according to a planned schedule as it is designed to cope with increasing elevation.
● Walk at an average speed. Do not walk too fast.
● Keep yourself hydrated
● Stay calm and maintain a positive mindset
● Respect locals and their cultures and traditions
● Assure to keep the environment clean with less consumption of plastics and proper disposal of waste materials
● Avoid risky areas
● Follow Covid-19 protocols
● Carry your hand sanitizer and make sure that the place you are staying in is well-sanitized.
● Confirm to have an insurance policy beforehand
● Verify that your guide is registered and insured.
Trekkers will find plenty of opportunities at Wild Yak Expeditions, the best trekking company in Nepal. Contact Wild Yak Expeditions to learn more about Nepal’s trekking adventure. We operate and plan tours in small groups to ensure quality and safety. We make your trips safer, more memorable, and more comfortable.
If you want to visit Nepal for the best hikes in Nepal, please contact us. We will always be available to our people who want to dream, explore, and discover new things.
