Do I need a visa and how do I get it?

Yes, you need a visa. Most travelers get a Visa on Arrival at Kathmandu airport. You’ll need a passport valid for 6+ months, one passport‑size photo, and the fee (approx. USD 30 for 15 days, 50 for 30 days, 120 for 90 days). Forms and photo booths are available at the airport; still, check the latest rules before you fly.

What should I pack for a Nepal trek?

Pack waterproof jackets, down jackets, trekking boots, a warm hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, trek socks, innerwear, a headlamp, basic first‑aid and blister care, water purification, and trekking poles. We will provide a detailed gear list after we confirm your trek.

How do I prevent altitude sickness?

To prevent altitude sickness, go slow, follow the itinerary’s acclimatization days, drink 3 to 4 liters of water daily, eat carb‑rich meals, and avoid alcohol/caffeine at height. Also, when you experience the warning signs (headache, nausea, dizziness), tell your guide immediately.

Is Nepal safe for first‑time trekkers?

Yes, Nepal is safe for first-time trekkers. There are many easy, beginner-friendly treks in Nepal like Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Everest View Trek, and many more that suit first-time trekkers.

What currency should I bring and can I use cards?

Bring USD, EUR, or GBP in clean, newer notes to exchange in Kathmandu/Pokhara. Cards work in bigger hotels/shops but not on the trail. ATMs are common in cities but limited in trekking regions, so withdraw enough cash before you start.

What about internet and phone on trek?

You’ll get Ncell/NTC SIMs in Kathmandu. On the trail, expect spotty 3G/4G. Many teahouses sell paid Wi‑Fi. Don’t rely on constant connectivity.

Are there cultural rules I should know?

Nepal is conservative. Dress modestly, ask before photographing people or inside temples, remove shoes where required, and respect local customs (e.g., clockwise around stupas). Tipping guides/porters is appreciated for good service.

Can I extend my trip or add side trips?

Yes, you can extend your trip or add side trips. Many travelers add Kathmandu Valley sightseeing, Pokhara relaxation, Chitwan jungle safari, or short hikes like Nagarkot/Dhulikhel. If you’re short on time, consider mountain flights or shorter treks that still deliver big Himalayan views.

I’m nervous about my fitness, can I still do it?

Many first‑timers succeed by choosing the right trek, doing light training beforehand (walking with a pack, stairs), and pacing with acclimatization. Be honest with your agency about your experience so they match you to a realistic route.

Can I store luggage in Kathmandu during the trek?

Yes. Most agencies and hotels offer free or low‑cost luggage storage while you’re on the trek. Confirm this when you book.

Do I need a guide to trek in Nepal?

For most popular treks (Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu), we recommend hiring a guide. Even where it’s not strictly required, a guide makes navigation, tea-house booking, and safety much easier.

How do I know a trekking company is legitimate?

To know if a trekking company is legitimate before you pay a deposit, ask for the Department of Tourism trekking agency license number and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) registration number, TAAN membership number (and check it on TAAN’s directory), your guide’s full name and government license number, and a physical office address in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This legal document verifies whether the trek agency is legitimate.

What should be included in the trek package price?

Normally, a trek package includes the cost of permits, domestic flights (e.g., Kathmandu–Lukla), guide/porter wages and insurance, teahouse lodging, meals on trek, airport transfers, and basic first-aid/oxygen support.

What is excluded from the package price?

Common exclusions include international flights, Nepal visa, travel insurance, tips, personal gear, bottled water, extra hotel nights, laundry, and city meals unless listed.

Can I book a trek locally after I arrive in Kathmandu?

Absolutely. In fact, many people arrange treks locally. But for restricted areas (Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, etc.), you must book through a registered agency with a licensed guide. In peak season, last‑minute bookings can mean limited flights, guides, or tea-house space, so pre-booking is safer.

How do I choose the right trek for my fitness level?

When choosing the right trek that matches your fitness level, the best way is to match the trek to your time, altitude comfort, and daily walking ability: Easy: up to ~3,500 m, 4-5 hours/day (e.g., Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley) Moderate: 3,500-4,500 m, 5-6 hours/day (e.g., Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit sections) Strenuous: 4,500 m+, long days or high passes (e.g., Three Passes, remote expeditions) Tell your agency your recent hiking experience, and they should suggest a realistic itinerary with acclimatization days.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Your policy must explicitly cover trekking up to your trip’s maximum altitude and include helicopter evacuation and medical expenses. Without this, evacuations become very expensive.

When is the best time to trek in Nepal?

The best time to trek in Nepal is Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), which give the most stable weather and clear mountain views. Winter is colder, with snow in high-altitude areas, and monsoon (June to August) brings rain and clouds, except in rain‑shadow areas like Upper Mustang.

How much cash should I carry for the trek?

Carry enough Nepalese rupees for meals, drinks, charging, Wi‑Fi, hot showers, and tips. ATMs are scarce once you leave Kathmandu/Pokhara. Many trekkers budget roughly USD 25 to 40 per day on the trail for personal expenses, depending on comfort level.

How far in advance should I book my trek?

During peak trekking seasons (September to November and March to May), book at least 6 to 10 weeks ahead to lock in guides, permits, and domestic flights (especially Lukla). In the off‑season (December to February and June to August), 3-4 weeks can work, but earlier is safer for popular routes.

Can I customize the itinerary or daily walking hours?

Yes. At Nepal Alternative Treks, we offer private or tailor‑made treks where you can adjust start dates, daily distances, rest days, and side trips. Tell us your fitness level and what you want to see so we can build a realistic plan.

What accommodation is included on the trek and in cities?

On the trek, most packages include twin‑share rooms in teahouses (basic but warm). In Kathmandu/Pokhara, you may get 2-3 nights in a tourist‑standard hotel.

Which meals are included, and what about drinks?

Typically, the trek includes three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Drinks (tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer) and snacks are extra, and you have to pay for them yourself; they are not included in the trek package cost.

Is porter service included? How much can they carry?

Many packages include a porter (often one porter for two clients). Usual load limits are around 15-20 kg per porter.

Is Nepal safe for tourists?

Yes, Nepal is safe for tourists. The country has already recovered from the earthquake in 2015. Also, there is no burst of epidemics or viral diseases. The country is politically stable. However, sudden non-violent protests and occasional strikes are frequent. They usually do not have much impact on tourists, but it is better to avoid leaving hotels on such days. We also recommend you to keep yourself updated with the local news. The government and other respective bodies are continuously are trying to facilitate accessible communication, comfortable and safe internal travel, proper healthcare facility, and services of accommodation in different trekking trails for tourists.

What are the physical fitness and other criteria required to trek in Nepal?

While all types of trek require good health condition with regular physical fitness and positive attitude, challenging treks and peak climbing requires physical fitness with some technical training. Most of the trails pass through the steep country lanes with climbs and ascents that can be demanding and tiresome, so it is beneficial for all travelers to exercise daily from a month before their trip. This helps the body get accustomed to the physical work required during the journey. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should inform us before booking the trek and are advised to seek medical advice or consent from their doctors before the trek. We run different short and long trekking packages ranging from easy to extremely difficult and demanding. We can arrange any trips with an itinerary based on individual needs.

When is the best season for trekking?

The best season to trek in Nepal is during autumn (September to November) as the weather is stable, dry, and clear. Also, the atmosphere is merry during these seasons, as autumn is the major festive season of the country. Another favorable season for trekking is during spring (March to May) as the trails become more vibrant and pleasing with the blooming of different wildflowers and Rhododendrons. The days are clear and perfect for trekking. December to February is the coldest time of the year. Most of the trekking paths lie in higher altitudes, so these areas even experience snowfall. From June to August, the country experiences summer season. Humidity increases along with the temperature. Hence, monsoon starts, which makes the skies cloudy, and the roads muddy and slippery. There are chances of flooding and landslides throughout the country as well.

What is a TIMS card? What is the difference between TIMS and Trekkers’ Permit?

Trekker Information Management Systems (TIMS) card is compulsory for all foreign trekkers in Nepal to ensure the safety and security of trekkers in all trekking areas. TIMS card is necessary for all trekking areas in Nepal. At the same time, trekkers’ permit is specifically required to enter the conservation area, national parks, protected regions, wildlife reserve areas, and hunting areas that come in-between the routes. Nepal Alternative Treks will manage your TIMS, and all other required permits so that you can enjoy a hassle-free holiday.

Do you have other dates available that match my timing??

Even though our trekking packages have pre-fixed group departure dates, we can tailor it to accommodate your specific requests and schedule. Please review our designated departure dates, and if they do not suit your timeframe, let us know your preferred timing so that we can manage your itinerary accordingly. We organize treks to different parts of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet as per your wishes and convenience.

Is Travel Insurance compulsorily required to trek in Nepal? Does your company pay for the Travel Insurance of guides and porters?

While booking a trek with us, we do require you to have travel insurance that must cover medical and emergency helicopter rescue with evacuation expenses at high altitudes for trekking members. You should provide the insurance documents before you depart for the trek. If you do not or cannot find an appropriate insurance policy, we will assist you with one. It will help you in potential altitude sickness and unforeseen events due to sudden weather change. Yes, we do pay for the insurance policy of our team members. Nepal Alternative Treks fund the expenses for insurance of all of its members along with their meals, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment.

Is there any difference between hiking, trekking, and Peak climbing?

Hiking, trekking, and peak climbing are all uphill journeys made on foot, but the duration and level of difficulty set them apart. Hiking is a short walk ranging from a few hours to 2-3 days, and the trails are quite comfortable. Trekking refers to the longer, relatively more difficult and tiring journey, which lasts for several days. Peak climbing means the adventurous activity of climbing mountain peaks of up to 6500 meters, which needs special gear and technical training. Nepal Alternative Treks arranges and runs all the mentioned activities in different parts of Nepal throughout the year.

What is the role of your guides?

Our licensed guides speak fluent English, and most of them even speak additional foreign languages like Japanese or French. They are extensively trained in handling any crisis and accidents along with managing accommodation and have good experience in the safe operation of treks. Our guides have ample knowledge about the Himalayas, altitude sickness, geography, local culture, and customs, as well as the biodiversity of the area. Their primary concern is your safety and satisfaction throughout the trek. Therefore, they will make your journey easier, exciting, and enriching.

Frequently Asked Questions - Nepal Alternative Treks

Before Coming to Nepal

Do I need a visa and how do I get it?
What should I pack for a Nepal trek?
How do I prevent altitude sickness?
Is Nepal safe for first‑time trekkers?
What currency should I bring and can I use cards?
What about internet and phone on trek?
Are there cultural rules I should know?
Can I extend my trip or add side trips?
I’m nervous about my fitness, can I still do it?
Can I store luggage in Kathmandu during the trek?

Read Answers

Before Booking Your Trek

Do I need a guide to trek in Nepal?
How do I know a trekking company is legitimate?
What should be included in the trek package price?
What is excluded from the package price?
Can I book a trek locally after I arrive in Kathmandu?
How do I choose the right trek for my fitness level?
Do I need travel insurance?
When is the best time to trek in Nepal?
How much cash should I carry for the trek?
How far in advance should I book my trek?
Can I customize the itinerary or daily walking hours?
What accommodation is included on the trek and in cities?
Which meals are included, and what about drinks?
Is porter service included? How much can they carry?

Read Answers

Most asked questions

Is Nepal safe for tourists?
What are the physical fitness and other criteria required to trek in Nepal?
When is the best season for trekking?
What is a TIMS card? What is the difference between TIMS and Trekkers’ Permit?
Do you have other dates available that match my timing??
Is Travel Insurance compulsorily required to trek in Nepal? Does your company pay for the Travel Insurance of guides and porters?
Is there any difference between hiking, trekking, and Peak climbing?
What is the role of your guides?

Read Answers

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Before Coming to Nepal

Before Booking Your Trek

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