The two classic treks are EBC and Annapurna Circuit.
1. Plan the time of year right
Like with many of the treks in Nepal, there are certain times of year when the weather conditions are ideal. For the Annapurna Circuit, October and November or April and May are widely considered to be the best for trekking. The weather during these two seasons is generally clear and dry, and so it’s not too cold .These two seasons are also the busiest times to be on the trail, with many other trekkers.
You can also trek at other times of the year, but you will need to be a little more prepared for the weather conditions. The winter season, December to March, can also have clear skies. But it can be incredibly cold at higher altitudes, with thick snow on the ground that can often cause the high passes to closes to close at short notice.
2. Bring only what you need, don’t over pack
When trekking the local Nepalese porters will carry 10kg of your gear. Anything extra will need to be carried on your own back, so packing as lightly as possible is essential. There are some things you need, such as a good quality sleeping bag, warm jacket, a thermal layers and a torch. Leave your laptop in Kathmandu. You really don’t need that on the trail.
3. The altitude should not be underestimated
Altitude sickness can happen at any time above 2,500m. It doesn’t matter how fit you are, it can affect anyone .You can stay prepared by taking Diamox, an altitude medication, but aside from that just take it slow, drink lots of water and listen to your body. Your guides will also be very knowledgeable about altitude and can be an essential source of help if you aren’t feeling well. Almost everyone will experience some mild symptoms like headaches or difficulty sleeping this is why it is important to not rush and not go on fast treks.
4. Be prepared for all weathers, whatever the time of year
While certain times of the year have much more suitable trekking weather it is vital to be prepared for all conditions, no matter when you decide to go. High in the Himalayas, the weather is unpredictable and snow can happen at any time. Even if you’re trekking in October, be prepared for snow or storms on the trail. Pack enough warm clothing.
5. Eat well and look after your body
Each evening, after a day of trekking, you will be happy to sit down in front of a fire and eat a plate of dal bhat (a traditional Nepali meal of rice, lentils, vegetable curry and pickles). The food is delicious and very filling, and your body will be grateful for it. For snacking, I suggest stocking up in Kathmandu, chocolate bars can get very expensive on at attitude.
6. It is good to have a way to treat water
Plastic is a big problem on trekking routes across Nepal, as most of these small villages have no waste disposal system. This is leaving mountainsides cluttered with discarded plastic bottles, which is really not how we want to be treating these areas of striking natural beauty! You can’t drink the tap water in Nepal, and you really do need to be drinking a lot on the trail as you are walking long distances at high altitudes.
I suggest a reusable water bottle, along the trail; there are many villages with purified drinking water stations. Here you can refill your bottle and it actually works out much cheaper than buying bottled water. You can also use water purification tablets or buy a steripen or filter.
7. Learn some cultural respect.
For many people, trekking in Nepal is about mountain views and hiking. But this is also a cultural trail, and it’s important to respect the people. I suggest learning a little more about the cultures you are passing through.. Opening your eyes to the cultures, religions and heritage of the trail will make it a much more enjoyable and meaningful experience, and it also means a lot to the local people when trekkers take an interest in their lives. Learn to say Namaste which means Hello, and Danyavad or Dhan'yavāda which means Thank you in Nepali
8. Don’t run out of cash
Limited ATM on the Route take enough cash to last In Western food such as burgers, pasta and burritos, also tends to be very expensive as you get higher. I would recommend taking at least £20 per day for the trek, and if you’re a big eater or want to drink alcohol, £30 per day is better.
9. Prepare yourself for the high passes
As long as you’re prepared, wearing enough warm clothes and have acclimatised enough to ensure your body comfortably makes the journey, then reaching the Thorong La Pass or EBC is going to be one of the moments of your trekking trip. Walk slowly, stay hydrated and don’t overdo it.
10. Be positive, take it slow and enjoy the journey!
Travelling is meant to = challenge you in so many ways and trekking Nepal will certainly do just that. While these are not easy treks at times, it is also an incredibly enjoyable journey and one that can be completed by people of all ages and all fitness levels. The most important thing throughout the trek is to stay positive. Even when your body aches and you need a hot shower, positivity will drive you on and it won’t be long before panorama makes you remember why you’re here.
Live your life and enjoy it. Annapurna Nepal Trekking.
Essentials Guide to 10 Things you should know before Trekking in Nepal.
Annapurna Nepal Trekking
Now that Covid is thankfully in the past, this has made life much easier for everyone.
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