Trekking in Nepal: The Complete Guide
Nepal is the world's premier trekking destination — home to 8 of the 14 highest peaks on Earth. This guide covers everything you need: best trails, permits, costs, safety, and how to hire a verified trekking companion.
Best season
Oct-Nov, Mar-May
Daily cost
Rs. 2,000-5,000
Permit required
TIMS + ACAP
Max altitude
Up to 5,545m
Best Trekking Routes in Nepal
Annapurna Base Camp
The most popular trek in Nepal — stunning mountain views without extreme altitude. Pass through Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, and hot springs.
Everest Base Camp
The ultimate trekking experience. Walk in the footsteps of mountaineers, visit Sherpa villages, monasteries, and stand at the base of the world's highest peak.
Langtang Valley
Closest trek to Kathmandu, beautiful valley with Tamang culture, yak pastures, and stunning views of Langtang Lirung. Less crowded than Annapurna or Everest.
Ghorepani Poon Hill
Perfect short trek for beginners. Sunrise over the Annapurna range from Poon Hill is one of the most iconic views in Nepal.
Upper Mustang
Restricted area trek to the 'Last Forbidden Kingdom'. Desert-like landscape, ancient caves, Tibetan Buddhist culture. Requires special permit.
Manaslu Circuit
Off-the-beaten-path alternative to Annapurna Circuit. Cross the challenging Larkya La pass with stunning mountain views.
Trekking Permits in Nepal
Most trekking areas in Nepal require permits. Here's what you need:
- TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) — Required for all treks. Rs. 2,000 for foreigners, Rs. 600 for SAARC nationals. Available at Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) — Rs. 3,000 for foreigners. Required for Annapurna, Manaslu, and Upper Mustang treks.
- Everest National Park Permit — Rs. 3,000 for foreigners. Required for Everest Base Camp trek.
- Restricted Area Permits — Required for Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Kanchenjunga. Range from Rs. 70,000-120,000 depending on duration.
Tip: Your SangiNepal trekking companion can help you obtain all permits — they know the process and can accompany you to the permit offices.
Trekking Safety in Nepal
Nepal trekking is generally safe, but the mountains demand respect. Key safety tips:
- Altitude sickness — The #1 risk. Ascend slowly (max 300-500m/day above 3,000m). Drink 3-4L water daily. If you get a headache, nausea, or dizziness, descend immediately. Diamox helps prevent AMS.
- Travel insurance — Must cover helicopter evacuation (costs $3,000-10,000). World Nomads, IMG, and Alliance Assist cover this.
- Hire a verified companion — A local companion knows the trails, weather patterns, safe teahouses, and can communicate with locals. All SangiNepal companions are identity-verified.
- Weather — Avoid monsoon season (June-September) for high-altitude treks. Landslides and leeches are common. Best months: October-November (clear skies) and March-May (rhododendrons).
- Communication — Buy a NTC or Ncell SIM card in Kathmandu. Most teahouse lodges have Wi-Fi (Rs. 100-200/day).