Trip Information
Trip Duration
18 Nights 19 Days
Difficulty Level
Hard
Destination
Nepal
Maximum Height
0 m
Guiding Method
Trekking & Climbing
Best Season
Autumn & Spring
Highlights
- A great combination of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek with a thrilling Tent Peak Climb.
- Experience the unique landscapes of the Annapurna region firsthand.
- Witness stunning sunrises over the Himalayas from Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp.
- Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Encounter Gurung and Magar communities along the Ghorepani Poon Hill trail.
- Enjoy a side trip to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and get a closer look at the iconic Fishtail Mountain.
- Acclimatize at Annapurna Base Camp before tackling the South Annapurna Glacier en route to Tent Peak Base Camp.
- Ascend Tent Peak (5,663m) amidst towering giants like Annapurna South in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- From the summit of Tent Peak, capture panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range, including peaks like Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
- Challenge yourself with technical climbing sections on the way to Tent Peak.
- Relax in the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda.
- Experience warm local hospitality and a glimpse into rural Nepali life.
- Combine teahouse and camping accommodation for a unique trekking experience.
- Explore the charming lakeside city of Pokhara.
Tucked away within the awe-inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary, north of the famous Annapurna Base Camp, lies a hidden gem– Tent Peak, also known as Tharpu Chuli. This peak earned its name from its distinctive shape– a perfect triangle that resembles a pitched tent against the vast Himalayan sky.
Standing at a manageable height of 5,663 meters (18,580 ft), Tent Peak offers a picturesque introduction to the mountaineering world. Unlike more challenging trekking peaks like Island Peak or Mera Peak, Tent Peak provides a taste of peak climbing adventure without the extreme altitude.
Our Annapurna Sanctuary Trek with Tent Peak Climb combines three incredible journeys in one:
- Hike the renowned Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).
- Witness epic sunrises from Poon Hill.
- Finally, conquer the summit of Tent Peak.
Our exclusive Tent peak climbing package begins from the charming town of Hile after a scenic drive from Kathmandu via Pokhara. The trail initially follows the Modi Khola River. It then winds through dense rhododendron forests, which burst with vibrant colors during spring.
You’ll continue trekking on the notable Ghorepani Poon Hill trail for consecutive days. Your journey unfolds through charming villages like Ulleri, Banthanti, and Nayathanti, culminating in Ghorepani. It is a large Gurung settlement that lies at the base of Poon Hill.
The next day brings an early start. You’ll go for a short hike to Poon Hill before sunrise. This vantage point rewards you with incredible sunrise views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
After this amazing experience, you continue towards Chomrong, a permanent settlement and the last major stop before Annapurna Base Camp. En route, you’ll pass through the charming town of Tadapani. Here, you’ll officially join the main trail used by many trekkers on the classic Himalayan Annapurna Base Camp trek.
As you walk through local villages, soak up the rich cultures of Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Loba people. Spot Buddhist shrines and Gompas along the way. This route to base camp offers stunning natural beauty and a fascinating cultural experience.
As you ascend higher, you’ll notice fewer trees and less vegetation. You’ll pass through picturesque hamlets like Sinuwa and Dovan on your way to the temporary settlement of Himalaya. After a tricky landslide area, you reach the mighty Hinku Cave, a famous landmark along the ABC trek route.
Further, the trek continues to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, passing through a village called Deurali. The next day, you’ll wake up early for an ABC hike. This is the main destination for most trekkers on the Annapurna Base Camp adventure.
But for you thrill-seekers, the exciting second half of your Tent Peak journey begins here. You’ll spend a day acclimatizing at the base camp of Mt. Annapurna South to get used to the high altitude. The following day, witness dramatic sunrise over the mighty Annapurna range before ascending Tent Peak.
From Annapurna Base Camp, you’ll see giant mountains all around you, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Gangapurna (7,455m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Tent Peak (5,663m). Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of the mountains and glaciers.
While you are relaxing at the Base Camp, it’s time to get ready for your Tent Peak climbing journey! Your expert guide will lead a training session where you’ll learn how to use all the climbing gear and essential safety protocols.
After a training session, you'll trek across rough terrain to reach Tent Peak Base Camp. From here, you'll set up a higher temporary camp (called a high camp) to make the final climb easier.
The ascent to the Tent Peak starts super early, before sunrise! It gets tricky here, so you must use special gear like crampons and ice axes. There will also be fixed-lined ropes to help you climb safely.
Standing on top of Tent Peak will be a moment you’ll never forget- a true accomplishment for any climber. From the summit, you'll savor the view of towering giants such as Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and countless other peaks that stretch out as far as you can see. Please take a deep breath, soak it all in, and snap some photos to capture this incredible scene.
After conquering Tent Peak, it's time to head back down. You'll retrace your steps back to a lower point called Bamboo. The next day, you'll trek to Matque via Jhinu Danda, a village famous for its relaxing hot springs. From Matque, take a scenic drive to Pokhara, where you’ll spend a relaxing night. The next day, you return to Kathmandu, where your Annapurna Sanctuary trek and Tent Peak climb ends!
Tent Peak is ideal for aspiring mountaineers, even those without high-altitude trekking experience. The Tent peak climbing route offers a manageable challenge. You'll get to try some tricky parts that will teach you mountaineering skills for climbing higher mountains later.
The beauty of this trek lies in its overlap with the famous ABC trekking route. By the time you reach the base camp, you’ll be well-acclimatized and ready to tackle Tent Peak’s summit push. This eliminates the need for extra days spent solely on acclimatization.
With its stunning scenery, manageable challenge, and efficient itinerary, Tent Peak with Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is the ideal launching point for mountaineering adventures.
Good to Know: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek offer slightly different experiences.
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek: This classic trek takes you directly to the base camp of Annapurna South.
- Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: This trek includes the Annapurna Base Camp visit and explores the wider Annapurna Sanctuary region, including viewpoints like Poon Hill. Our particular trekking package is about Anapurna Sanctuary Trek with Tent Peak Climb.
Route Map
Altitude Graph
Itinerary
Your Kathmandu adventure begins the moment you land at Kathmandu International Airport!
A friendly representative from Nepal Ascent Treks will be waiting to greet you. After assisting you with your luggage, they’ll drive you away in a private vehicle to the hotel.
After check-in and freshened up, the day is yours to explore. Whether you choose to rest in the hotel or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, the choice is entirely yours.
Following exploring, our team invites you to a special welcome dinner. This delightful gathering provides an opportunity to meet your guides and fellow climbers. It’s a fantastic way to start your Annapurna Sanctuary Trek with Tent Peak Climb and experience the warm Nepali hospitality.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
After an energizing breakfast, you’ll embark on a captivating guided tour of Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Marvel at the intricate wood carvings and ancient architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the largest historic complex in Nepal. Explore the famous Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world, and feel the spiritual energy that permeates the environment.
Your sightseeing continues at the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, an architectural masterpiece on the bank of the Bagmati River. Visit the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, perched atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley.
After exploring the Kathmandu significant places, you’ll attend a comprehensive trek briefing. Your expert guide will provide detailed information about the upcoming adventure and answer any queries. You’ll also get an opportunity to check your gear and rent or buy any necessary for the trek.
You'll enjoy a delicious dinner after an insightful sightseeing tour and trek briefing. Afterward, you’ll return to the hotel and prepare for tomorrow's adventure. Be sure to get a good night’s rest, as an exciting journey into the Himalayas awaits you tomorrow.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Hile, the starting point of your Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. The ride offers a glimpse of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
Departing Kathmandu, you’ll travel along the Prithivi Highway, winding through lush hills, terraced fields, and picturesque villages. Keep an eye out for the Trishuli River flowing alongside the road.
About halfway, you’ll reach the captivating lakeside city of Pokhara. This popular tourist destination is renowned for its stunning Himalayan vistas and tranquil Phewa Lake. Enjoy a brief stop here to stretch your legs and take in the scenery before continuing your journey.
As you approach Hile, the landscape transforms into more rugged terrain, with dense forests and cascading waterfalls adding to the beauty. Upon reaching Hile, you’ll hike to the small village of Tikhedhunga. This short climb will be your first night’s stopover.
Tikhedhunga offers magnificent sights of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. Here, the locals will warmly welcome you and experience the charm of staying in a traditional teahouse.
Overnight stay in Tikhedhunga.
Today’s trek starts with an ascent from Tikhedhunga. The trail gradually steepens, especially after passing the charming Magar village of Ulleri. Be prepared for moderate trekking challenges, including sections with steep stone stairs.
While the climb persists, the rewards are plentiful. As you gain elevation, the landscape transforms. Dense forests teeming with vibrant rhododendron flowers will line your path, particularly during spring. The trail winds through small hamlets like Banthanti and Nayathanti, where you can observe the daily routines of the villagers.
Finally, after conquering the uphill portions, you arrive at the famous hill station of Ghorepani. This village, Nepal’s largest Gurung settlement, boasts a panoramic scene of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Gurung people.
Overnight stay in Ghorepani.
Today, you'll get up early in the morning to catch the spectacular sunrise over the majestic Himalayan peaks from Poon Hill. Before dawn breaks, you'll be on your way. The hike starts with ascending a steep stone staircase.
The trail itself is easy to follow, and you'll be sharing the path with fellow trekkers eager to witness the sunrise. Remember to stay hydrated and pace yourself as you ascend. Finally, after climbing for 45 minutes to one hour, you reach the Poon Hill viewpoint. The early wake-up call will be instantly forgotten as you witness an exquisite panorama unfold.
Witness the first rays of golden sunlight painting the snow-capped mountain range of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung, and Nilgiri Himal in a magical glow. The view transforms into an unforgettable memory as the sun slowly rises behind the mountains.
After this enchanting sunrise experience, you descend back to Ghorepani. From there, the trek continues to the pleasant village of Tadapani.
Overnight stay in Tadapani.
Today’s trek unfolds through diverse landscapes, charming villages, and dense forests. Starting the hike from Tadapani, the trek ends at Chomrong, one of the largest villages along the route. Primarily inhabited by the Gurung and Magar communities, this picturesque town offers a glimpse into their rich culture.
En route, you’ll encounter sweeping views of snowy peaks, lush green hills, and cascading waterfalls. You start the hike with a downhill walk, leading you across the suspension bridge over the Kimrong River. Next, the trail winds through the small village of Tamlung before gradually ascending towards Chomrong.
Chomrong, the last permanent settlement on the ABC hiking route, holds a special charm. Here, you’ll encounter a seemingly endless staircase– a challenge that might feel different depending on your direction (upward or downward).
After reaching this picturesque village nestled amidst stunning mountain scenery, take some time to explore! You’ll enjoy the commanding sights of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.
Overnight stay in Chomrong.
Your morning in Chomrong begins with a hearty breakfast overlooking awe-inspiring mountain scenery. Next, you’ll start the trek with a steep descent along stone steps toward the Chomrong River. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking scenery of terraced fields and rolling hills.
After crossing the river, you enter into the dense forested areas. You’ll encounter refreshing streams and waterfalls along the way- a welcome respite amid your trek. Take a moment to wash your face in the cool water and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
After a few hours into your trek, you’ll reach beautiful Sinuwa village, a favorite lunch stop for trekkers. Here, you can savor a delicious meal while soaking in the captivating vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
After the lunch break, the trail climbs through lush bamboo forests alongside the Modi Khola. Soon, you’ll arrive at Bamboo Village, a common stopover for trekkers that lies amidst towering bamboo thickets.
From here, the path continues, leading you deeper into dense forests of oak and rhododendrons before reaching Dovan, your destination for the day.
Overnight stay in Dovan.
Today’s trek takes you to a challenging but rewarding section of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek route. Be prepared for a wild and scenic journey as the trail traverses through areas prone to landslides and avalanches, passing the mighty Hinku Cave. This deeper section of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) offers an authentic wilderness experience.
The journey begins with a straightforward path from Dovan village. The trail winds through a dense forest of rhododendrons, bamboo, and towering pines. Just past Dovan, be awestruck by a huge waterfall rushing into the Modi Khola.
After a while, you’ll reach Himalaya, a temporary settlement with a few tea houses. Here, you might start to feel the effects of the higher altitude. Continuing, the trail climbs through potential landslide areas using seemingly endless stone steps before reaching the impressive Hinku Cave, a vast natural rock formation.
Following the trail with a gradual ascent along the Modi Khola, you reach Deurali. As you progress, the treeline gradually disappears, and you’ll be rewarded with the invigorating freshness of the pristine Himalayas. The trial might even lead you over some glacial terrain before reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC).
At MBC, prepare to be captivated by the close-up view of Mt. Machhapuchhre, revered as the abode of Lord Shiva. The grandeur of the surrounding peaks – Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli – will leave you speechless.
Overnight stay in Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Feeling acclimatized after yesterday at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), you have a choice to make!
Option 1: Witness the Sunrise from Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
For an unforgettable experience, you can rise before dawn and embark on a pre-dawn hike to reach ABC in time to witness the magical sunrise over the majestic peaks. The trek itself takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
Option 2: Savor Mountain Views from MBC and Ascend Later
Since you’ll spend the next few days at ABC for your Tent Peak Climb, there’s no need to rush. Take a slower pace and enjoy a leisurely sunrise breakfast at MBC. The view of Machhapuchhre bathed in the golden morning light is truly spectacular.
Whichever sunrise experience you choose, the journey continues! After breakfast, you’ll embark on the relatively flat trek from MBC to ABC. Though the trail is easy to navigate, the increasing altitude may still test your stamina. Take comfort in the inspiring company of the snow-capped peaks that surround you.
After a few hours of walking, you’ll finally reach your destination — Annapurna Base Camp! This marks the successful completion of the first half of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek with Tent Peak Climb. Spend the rest of the day exploring the base camp area and rest well.
Overnight stay in Annapurna Base Camp.
Today is dedicated to acclimatization and preparing you for your upcoming Tent peak climbing adventure.
Wake up early and witness the hued sunrise — an enriching experience after your challenging trek. As dawn breaks, the majestic peaks of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Gangapurna will come alive with the golden light of the rising sun.
Witness the snow-capped giants bathed in a warm glow against the crystal-clear sky. This awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama will make you feel the journey was worth every step.
After a hearty breakfast to fuel your day, it’s time for your pre-climb training session. Your experienced guide will introduce you to some essential climbing skills, including using equipment like ice axes, crampons, and fixed ropes.
You’ll also learn how to tie knots using main and fixed ropes, all crucial skills for your upcoming ascent. This training will equip you with the necessary skills and boost your confidence for the climb ahead. Following the training session, explore the Annapurna Base Camp area at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Annapurna Base Camp.
Rise early to witness another stunning sunrise from Base Camp. Fuel up for the day with breakfast, then embark on the next leg of your adventure– the trek to Tent Peak Base Camp.
The trail begins with a climb over moraine cliffs and debris-covered glaciers. You need to walk cautiously as you navigate these glacier sections. On the north side of the glacier, you’ll find a marked trail to follow.
Continue your trek until you reach a flat boulder by a glacial stream. Cross the stream to arrive at your destination– Tent Peak Base Camp, a flat grassy area. The base camp boasts a marvelous scene of the surrounding Himalayan giants. Take in the panorama and prepare for tomorrow’s ascent to High Camp.
Overnight stay in Tent Peak Base Camp.
Today’s adventure takes you to High Camp, another step closer to the summit of Tent Peak! Be prepared, as this section involves technical climbing, where you’ll get to put your pre-climb training to the test.
The route includes a steep section (around 50-60 degrees) that necessitates using ropes and helmets for safety. You’ll also encounter a gradual climb on a 30-degree glacier. The challenging terrain and thinner air will likely test your limits.
However, the rewards upon reaching High Camp are truly dazzling! Prepare to be captivated by the surrounding mountain scenery, including Annapurna I, South, Macchapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
Spend some time exploring the High Camp area. The rest of the day is crucial for relaxation and conserving energy for tomorrow’s summit push.
Overnight stay in Tent Peak High Camp.
Today is the culmination of your adventure – the summit push for Tent Peak! Expect a tough but rewarding climb. You’ll navigate a challenging rock wall and a steep slope exceeding 70 degrees. Remember to utilize the fixed ropes to provide for safety during these sections.
Despite the difficulty, the alluring scenery will keep you motivated. A final traverse across a flat section leads you to the base of the summit ridge. Using learned technical mountaineering skills, you make the final ascent.
Standing at the top of the Tent Peak is an excellent sense of achievement. You'll stunned by a mesmerizing 360-degree panorama of the mountains, glaciers, and all surroundings. From the summit, you'll get marvelous scenes of the entire Annapurna range.
After celebrating your summit success, you’ll return to Annapurna Base Camp via the same route. Congratulations on completing your incredible Tent Peak journey.
Overnight stay in the Annapurna Base Camp.
This is a buffer day built into your Tent Peak climbing itinerary. This means it's a planned "extra" day in case of unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, minor injuries, illness, or altitude sickness. These unexpected events can sometimes disrupt your schedule, and this day allows you the flexibility to adjust without missing out on key experiences.
Think of it like a safety net! If you encounter any of these issues and can't climb Tent Peak on a planned day, this contingency day gives you a chance to recover and attempt it later. However, if everything goes smoothly and you conquer the peak as planned, this day won't be used.
After conquering Tent Peak, wake up early at Annapurna Base Camp to catch the stunning sunrise over the Annapurna massif one last time. Enjoy a hot breakfast amid the spectacular Himalayan scenery.
The return journey won’t retrace the original route. Instead, you’ll take a different trail, mostly downhill and relatively easier than the uphill trek. Gradually descending, you’ll bid farewell to the towering peaks as you lose altitude. After a few hours of downhill trek, you’ll return to Bamboo Village.
Overnight stay in Bamboo.
Today's adventure starts with a short climb out of Bamboo Village. From there, the trail winds through the mountains until you reach Sinuwa Danda, a beautiful spot with stunning mountain views.
Next, you'll descend to the Chomrong River. Here, long stone steps await, leading you up to Chomrong village. After this climb, you'll be ready for a well-deserved lunch break in Chomrong.
Refueled and ready to go, you'll continue your trek down to Jhinu Danda, your home for the night.
Jhinu is a charming village known for its natural hot spring pools near the Modi River. The perfect way to end your day? A relaxing soak in these magical hot springs. The warm water will soothe your tired muscles and leave you feeling refreshed.
Overnight stay in Jhinu Danda.
Today is your last day on the trails. This short and scenic walk offers a final chance to soak in the beauty of the ACAP region’s green hills. Enjoy a leisurely 1-2 hour trek, mostly flat and perfect for reminiscing about your adventure before reaching Matque village.
Upon arrival at Matque marks the successful completion of your Annapurna adventure. From here, a scenic 2- 3 hour drive takes you back to the charming lakeside town of Pokhara.
Once you arrive in Pokhara, check into your hotel and unwind with a well-deserved hot shower. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Meander through the lakeside area and vibrant streets, grab a delicious meal and relax and relive your incredible adventure memories.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Today, you journey back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The scenic drive retraces your initial route, offering another glimpse of those beautiful terraced fields, villages nestled in the hills, and cascading waterfalls.
While the sights may be familiar, the feeling is different. This time, you'll carry memories of your incredible trekking and peak climbing adventure. Be prepared for a bumpy ride in parts – those potholes haven't magically disappeared.
Around lunchtime, you'll stop to refuel and stretch your legs. Afterward, the drive continues, climbing towards the Kathmandu Valley. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after your adventure.
Nepal Ascent Treks hosts a farewell dinner for you. It's a chance to bond with your guides and fellow adventurers, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal. Savor these final moments together before returning home.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Enjoy some free time in Kathmandu before your flight home. Do souvenir shopping at the local markets to find keepsakes that remind you of your incredible adventure.
A representative from Nepal Ascent Treks will take you to the airport, depending on your departure time.
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What's Included
Meal
- Breakfast,Lunch and dinner during the trek.
- Fresh seasonal fruits after the dinner (while on the trek).
Accomodation
- Lodge expenses during the trek.
- Stay in the city at finest hotel (Can upgrade of the accommodations to luxury hotels / lodge is possible at extra cost).
Staffs & Crew
- A porter and his entire expenses.
- Insurance of guide and porter.
- Professional Sherpa climbing guide
Transportation
- Airport pickup and drop facility.
- Kathmandu to Hile and Matque to Pokhara by private jeep.
- Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
Permits & Paperworks
- Climbing permit
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
Activities
- Full day guided city tour in Kathmandu (Day 2) by a private vehicle.
Other
- Down jackets and sleeping bags (provided upon request).
- Climbing gears & equipments
- Nepal Ascent Treks duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map.
- First aid medical kit
- Good quality tents and kitchen utensils for camping
Complimentary Extras
- Welcome and farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.
- Local sim card
- 1 hour trekkers massage / Yoga after the trip completion.
What's Not Included
- Cost incurred during the tour around the city.
- Nepal arrival visa.
- Cost for additional trips.
- Travel insurance which covers emergency rescue and evacuation.
- Tipping to staffs (as an appreciation).
- Airfare for domestic and international flights.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
GROUP TOURS
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Essential Info
Physical Fitness
Many people have questions as to what level of physical fitness is required for visiting Nepal, and that is extremely reliant on what activity the visitor is engaging in. With that said, for a standard trek of moderate grading (Everest Base Camp Trek is an example of moderate) the daily activity will be 7-8 hours, and elevation will generally not exceed 5,500 meters. The day’s trekking is sustained and will involve both long steep climbs, and descents with a variety of terrain underfoot from well-trodden paths, to rocks covered with ice or snow. A typical day would include a number of climbs or descents of 500 meters or more, starting after breakfast, resting at lunch, then continuous trekking until arriving at the teahouse.
In preparation for the trek, it is important to begin a training requirement at least 4 months before departing for Nepal. Three to four hours of aerobic exercise like running, walking, swimming, cycling & some gym work per week is the minimum and most will find it beneficial to add some basic strength training to their physical fitness routine. One of the best ways to prepare is to take practice hikes with a daypack roughly the same weight as what you will be taking on the trek. Do this only after a baseline of fitness has been reached. Moving fast is not the end goal, rather endurance is the focus, and will provide a more enjoyable and safe adventure.
Trekking Seasons in Nepal
There are two main seasons in which Nepal sees the most amount of visitors. Fall (September through November) being the most popular, and spring (March to May) coming in close behind. The summer months of June, July and August are the monsoon season and as such the trails are mostly washed out, and roads can sometimes be impassible due to landslide activates. Not to mention the view is non-existent. Still, there are a few places that lie in rain shadow areas and see significantly less rain if any at all, and summer can be a good time to visit these places.
Winter in Nepal is dry, with very cold nights where temperatures can drop to -20°C at the highest altitudes, but the days are pleasant and sunny. Additionally, the trails are much less crowded during this time of year. In Kathmandu, maximum daytime temperatures reach around 20°C.
Fall is the most popular because it’s after the monsoons, and the air is dry, the days are sunny, and everything is green in the lower valleys from the excessive rains. Spring is a popular choice because some rain returns, but the weather is generally warm and dry, and flowers are in bloom in the lower elevations.
Trekking Day
A typical trekking day begins with a cup of tea at around 6 in the morning. It is advised to pack your trekking gears in a duffle bag and essential supplies in your day pack in these early hours. After having breakfast, we begin the trek and head along the trail at around 8 am. The morning walk is designed to be longer as we begin with refreshed bodies and enthusiasm. Following a good morning’s walk, we make stop for lunch at around 11.30 am. The lunch involves group meals enjoying the vicinity around the stop. You can explore the surrounding or use the time according to your own consent. After resting for about an hour or two, we resume our trek to reach teahouse or camp by 3-4 pm. The afternoon walk is relatively shorter and can involve games and side trips as organized by the trekking guides. You also can enjoy breaks during the trek to relax, read or stroll around the area. You can converse with the local people and observe their lifestyle. Dinner is served around 7 in the evening to round off the day.
Meals and Accommodations
During the length of the trek, the accommodation style is commonly referred to as teahouse. These are family-run basic lodges that fill the role of the restaurant, meeting place, and boarding house for tourists. Electricity can be found in the rooms, which means one light bulb, and one or two outlets for charging electronics. The common areas are also lit by electricity. Teahouses may use solar, hydroelectric, or have electrical lines running into the village, so the commonality and availability of electricity may vary.
Most teahouses have private rooms, though if the trek is in a more remote or high altitude place dormitories are the norm. Each room has 1 or 2 single beds with basic bedding, and the bathroom is shared. Expect a mix of western and squat style toilets in the bathrooms.
Breakfast and dinner are taken at the teahouse and these lodges have large family style dining rooms centered on a stove to provide heat. The menu will have Nepali style western foods such as pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and fries. Also on the menu is the traditional Dal Bhat meal. This is a lentil soup with rice and vegetable or meat curry. Most menus will also offer a smattering of local cuisine.
Travel Insurance
Many expeditions and tours require that travel insurance is purchased prior to arriving in Nepal, but other treks and tours may not. However, travel insurance is definitely an important consideration. There are a number of reasons to consider insurance. Firstly, it may be required, so check to see what is being asked for by the company. Second, Nepal is a landlocked country, and there are few direct flights. Travel in and out can encounter some disruptions and if purchasing insurance, make sure flight delays and cancellations are included. The next reason to choose insurance is that, though every safeguard is in place during your tour, there are always extenuating circumstances that may result in an accident. Read the fine print of insurance policies to ensure trekking or any other activity you are engaging in is covered, as some policies have stopped covering trekking in certain places. It is impossible to have a relaxing trip without the comfort of good insurance, so do the research and choose carefully.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions. There are a number of entry points where you can obtain the visa upon arriving by land, but Tribhuvan International Airport is the only one for air transport.
Visa on Arrival Tourist Visa
Three options are available for entry
15-day single entry: US $30
30-day single entry: US $50
90-day multiple entries: US $125
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.
For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Acute Mountain Sickness is usually seen in un-acclimatized people shortly after ascent to high altitudes. The condition occurs due to the thinning of air as the altitude increases. The condition, if not taken seriously and treated immediately, can be life-threatening and its symptoms can be seen generally above 3000 meters. Some of the symptoms of AMS are nausea, vomiting, tiredness, shortness of breath and cerebral pain. The treks are designed to properly acclimatize you to the change in high altitude climate and sufficient precautionary measures too are taken to take utmost caution. We also equip our staffs with cell phones and satellite phones in occurrence of any emergency cases. We are greatly driven to keep the safety and security of our clients as our foremost concern.
Drinking Water
Water is essential for life, and clean water is imperative while on holiday. When choosing to visit less developed countries it is a concern that all travelers should consider. A few options are available when trekking or traveling in Nepal that will mitigate any chances of drinking contaminated water which could cause disruption of an otherwise fun adventure. The first consideration to take into account is that tap water should not be ingested. That even means when brushing your teeth. Most will choose to buy bottled water and if doing so make sure the cap has not been opened previously. Plastic bottle refuse is a problem, and with that being said there are other options on the market to assist in making water drinkable. Your local outdoor store can help with choosing what option might be best to use in conjunction with a reusable bottle. Your guide can also steer you to water that has been filtered and purified so ask him or her what is available.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you to pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
What our customers are saying us?
Trekking in Nepal
Ryan Patterson
USFantastic Trip
My daughter and I did the 15 day Everest base camp trek. Very happy with our choice of Nepal Ascent Treks. Sittal was very responsive in answering all my questions before the trip and really took care of us during the trip. Our guide, Deepak, and porter, Bissnu, were awesome and very attentive. We felt we typically had the best rooms at the nicest teahouses. Kathmandu sightseeing was very personalized. The little extras provided by Nepal Ascent Treks – sim card, duffel bag, nice shirt (not cheap T-shirt), and massage were great. Would highly recommend Nepal Ascent Treks!
Blake Christensen
USAn Unforgettable adventure journey to Mera Peak
Swan Mike
USAmazing Experience with a Wonderful Company
Nicole Jopek
GBEverest Base Camp Luxury Trekking
Esthar Maria
US
