Trekking in Nepal for 2024 will take you on an awe-inspiring and adventurous ride. It will be one of the best decisions and memorable experiences.
Nepal is home to some of the world’s highest mountains, including Mt. Everest. The snow-capped mountains, picturesque landscapes, remote valleys, deep gorges, diverse biodiversity, and rich culture offer an air of mystery. Every trek route is unique. And many hidden gems are waiting to be discovered and explored.
The tourism industry in Nepal first began back in 1949. Since then, it has been a favorite trekking destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, spirituality seekers, and explorers. Even though thousands of tourists visit the country annually, the experience remains authentic and raw. It goes to show what abundance Nepal has.
In 2015, Nepal was hit by a devastating earthquake that affected the tourism industry. When the country was getting on its feet, the 2020 COVID pandemic gave another blow. However, Nepal has managed to regain its footing. It is more than prepared to welcome anyone exploring the country’s culture, heritage, mountains, and landscapes.
In this article, we will provide some helpful insights that you can use to plan your visit to Nepal. Furthermore, we have compiled a list of the top five trekking destinations and their info for trekking in Nepal for 2024. So make sure you stick with us until the end. Now, without any further delay, let us dive right in!
Documents Required Before Trekking in Nepal
Foreigners traveling to Nepal will require a few documents and paperwork for trekking in Nepal for 2024. These documents include the following:
Visa
As a foreigner traveling in Nepal, you must get a tourist visa. It allows you to travel freely across the country and participate in activities, including trekking. You can get the visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. But you can also apply for a visa from your home country.
The cost of a visa varies depending on the duration of your stay. The cost for a visa is as follows:
- 15 days single-entry: USD 30
- 30 days single-entry: USD 50
- 90 days single-entry: USD 125
You need at least 6 months remaining on your passport for the visa. Also, you will need a passport-size photo. You can fill out the tourist visa form online.
Travel Insurance
It is mandatory to have travel insurance for trekking in Nepal. Travel insurance should cover medical and emergency expenses, including high altitudes. Likewise, it should include coverage for altitude-related sickness, helicopter rescues, and evacuations.
Trekking destinations in Nepal take you to elevations higher than 3000 meters. As a result, there is a risk of altitude sickness. Similarly, there is no telling when accidents and unfortunate events can occur. Hence, travel insurance serves as a safety net at such times.
There are various types of travel insurance. It is best to consult with your trekking agency if you are in a dilemma. Also, ensure that you read all the terms and conditions of the travel insurance before getting one.
TIMS Card
All foreign trekkers must obtain a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card in Nepal. The card takes the trekker’s personal details, trek itinerary, and emergency contact number. It helps to ensure their safety and security, especially during natural disasters and emergencies.
Trekkers can obtain the TIMS card through government-registered trekking agencies. You must provide them with a copy of your passport and 2 passport-size photos for the card. Trekking packages often include the TIMS card. The TIMS card cost is as follows:
- Non-SAARC residents: USD 20 per person for individual trekkers and USD 10 per person for group trekkers.
- SAARC residents: USD 6 per person for individual trekkers and USD 3 per person for group trekkers.
Permits
Different trekking destinations in Nepal will require different permits. Some require national park entry permits, some require restricted area permits, and some require local permits. Likewise, some will require all of the mentioned permits. For example, trekkers must obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Entry Permit for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
The cost of permits varies. While permit costs remain the same throughout the year, some can differ depending on the seasons and stay duration. Trekkers can obtain the route permit via government-registered trekking agencies. Similarly, most of the trek packages come with permits included.
Best Season For Trekking in Nepal For 2024
There are four seasons in Nepal. These seasons significantly influence the weather and climatic conditions. Spring and autumn seasons are the best seasons for trekking in Nepal. Here is an overview of all four seasons in Nepal:
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking seasons. The weather is stable, with a clear sky and excellent visibility. Moreover, the flora and fauna are most active during spring. The average temperature in the lower regions ranges between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, the temperature at higher elevations may still be chilly.
At the beginning of spring, the weather remains cold. Especially in the mornings and nighttime, it can be chilly. There can be remnants of snow at higher passes. But it gradually becomes warmer as the season progresses. Spring is ideal to witness the blooming rhododendron forests or Himalayan wildflowers.
Summer (June to August)
As summer begins, monsoon enters Nepal. As a result, most regions receive heavy rainfall. The rain washes away dust and any impurities in the atmosphere. Hence, the vegetation looks luscious and green. The temperature in the lower regions can range between 20 to 30 degrees at the lower area. Likewise, the temperature at higher elevations is also warm.
However, the heavy rainfall makes most trekking routes most challenging and dangerous. The trails become muddy and slippery. Additionally, there is a risk of landslides and mudslides. Hence, rain-shadowed regions like Upper Mustang and Dolpo are ideal for summer.
Autumn (September to November)
The stable weather and warm temperatures make autumn one of Nepal’s best seasons for trekking. Monsoon ends as autumn begins. Hence, there is low rainfall except for occasional rain showers. The vegetation looks green and luscious, while the landscapes are vibrant. The visibility is also the best in autumn.
The average temperature is between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. Some of the biggest Nepali festivals fall in autumn. The bright, sunny days and favorable weather make autumn a peak trekking season. However, after mid-autumn, the temperature slowly becomes chilly.
Winter (December to February)
THeavysnowfall and blizzards are likely during the winter season at higher elevations. The temperature becomes colder and makes trekking to higher altitudes more challenging. Lower regions’ temperatures range between 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, higher elevations can drop to freezing and below 0 degrees Celsius.
With proper preparation, trekking during the winter season is doable. The trails are quieter at this time. But you can enjoy the best view of the snow-peaked mountains. Winter is the perfect season for Trekkers looking for a challenging and adventurous trek experience.
5 Best Treks For Trekking in Nepal
There are numerous trek destinations in Nepal. Among these, we have picked the 5 best treks for trekking in Nepal for 2024. They are:
Everest Base Camp Trek
Needless to say, Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal. The trek route will take you to the world’s highest mountain base camp at 5364 meters. Similarly, you can witness the panoramic mountain views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc from the base camp.
The highest point of the Everest Base Camp Trek is Kala Pattar (5555 meters). The trails go through the Sagarmatha National Park, charming Sherpa settlements, ancient Tengboche Monastery, remote valleys, sparkling rivers, glaciers, and moraines. This classic trek is a challenging route that offers a boast-worthy experience.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
After the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp is Nepal’s second most popular trek. It lies in the central region of Nepal. The trails go through the Annapurna Conservation Area and traditional Gurung villages. Likewise, en route, you will pass by the Machhapuchre Base Camp, which sits at 3700 meters.
The magnificent view of Mt. Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, and more will accompany you throughout the trek. The Annapurna Base Camp is at an elevation of 4130 meters. This moderately challenging trek destination is ideal for all trekkers, including beginners. It is a scenic trek destination that also offers rich cultural exploration.
Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new trekking destination in the Annapurna region. Mardi Himal was first opened back in 2012. Compared to the Annapurna Base Camp, it is less crowded but provides one of the most scenic and pristine trekking experiences. Mardi Himal checks the boxes for Trekkers looking for quieter but moderately demanding trek destinations.
You will pass from sub-tropical forests to alpine meadows during the Mardi trek’s highest point, the Mardi Himal base camp, which sits at 4450 meters. The trek route makes a small circuit to the base camp. It offers gorgeous panoramic mountain views of Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Hiuchuli, and several other mountains.
Langtang, Helambu, and Gosaikunda Trek
The Langtang, Helambu Goasikunda Trek is an adventurous and demanding trek. It is one of the less-commercialized trek routes with an awe-inspiring trek experience. The trail passes through the off-the-beaten paths into remote valleys, deep gorges, small villages, and the holy pilgrimage site of Hindus and Buddhists, Gosaikunda.
The trek route goes through the Langtang National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna. En route, you will pass by ancient monasteries like Kyanjin Gompa. Also, you can get spectacular mountain views like Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh, and Annapurna ranges. The Langtang, Helambu, and Gosaikunda Trek is a fantastic trek that combines adventure, spirituality, and cultural experience.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden gem of Nepal. This remote and secluded trekking destination of Nepal boasts raw and untouched natural beauty. It is an adventurous and strenuous trek. Thus, it is best for seasoned trekkers. Its off-the-beaten trails will take you into one of the remote regions of Nepal.
The trek begins from Machha Khola and goes through dense forests, suspension bridges, ancient gompas, traditional villages, glaciers, and moraines. The trek’s highest point is at Larke La Pass at 5135 meters. The pass is one of the highest and most challenging mountain passes in Nepal. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a perfect match for trekkers who want a challenging and raw trek experience.
5 Best Tours For Trekking in Nepal
In the above section, we discussed some of Nepal’s best trek destinations in Nepal. In this part, we will provide you with information about the best tour places in the country. Take a look:
Chitwan Jungle Safari
If you are a nature enthusiast and want to explore Nepal’s wildlife, Chitwan Jungle Safari is one of the best tours. The Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the country’s first national park. It is home to endangered wildlife species like single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros and Royal Bengal Tigers.
Similarly, it is a heaven for bird watchers as more than 500 species of birds inhabit the national park. The park covers more than 932 sq. km and is among Asia’s best-preserved conservation areas. The Chitwan Jungle Safari offers you an opportunity to explore the wilderness and get a glimpse at diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
Experience Nepal Tour and Sightseeing
Experience Nepal Tour and Sightseeing takes you on a tour to three major tourist cities in Nepal. These cities include Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. It is a versatile tour package that combines adventure and relaxation. You will be able to experience Nepal overall in 12 days.
During the tour, you can witness mountain views, trek to Ghorepani-Poonhill, and visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Gurung Museum, and Chitwan National Park. You will trek on one of the scenic routes of Nepal, Ghorepani-Poonhill. Then, you will go on a jungle safari and bird-watching trip in Chitwan National Park. It is an all-in-one tour package.
Mountain, Culture, and Wildlife
Mountain, Culture, and Wildlife Tour is precisely as the name suggests. It is a fantastic tour package that begins with sightseeing in Kathmandu. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Then, you will head to Chitwan for a jungle safari.
After enjoying wildlife safari and other fun activities at Chitwan National Park, you will head towards Pokhara. You will enjoy a fantastic sunrise from Sarangkot in Pokhara and a boat around Phewa Lake. Similarly, you will visit famous tourist areas such as the Mountain Museum, Peace Pagoda, and Davi’s Fall.
Kathmandu Sightseeing And Food Tour
A one-day Kathmandu sightseeing and food tour is an excellent option for those with limited time. You will spend a whole day exploring the city and enjoying the local delicacies. The tour will take you to three old cities, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You will visit Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Boudhanath. You will get cultural and historical insights about these sites during the tour. Similarly, you can also witness the local handicrafts and buy some for souvenirs.
Extended Kathmandu Valley Tour
The extended Kathmandu Valley Tour will take you into the three old cities within the valley. These cities include Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath, and Boudhanath.
Similarly, the tour will also take around the villages near the valley. The tour is a perfect combination of cultural and religious experiences. You will witness the rich art and architecture of Kathmandu Valley. Likewise, you will also witness beautiful sunrise and sunsets from Nagarkot hill station.
Final Say
There are so many destinations and hidden wonders in Nepal waiting to be explored. Whether you need a challenging trek, adventurous route, wildlife viewing, or cultural and spiritual exploration, Nepal has so many options. There is something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact NAAT Treks & Tours and plan your trekking in Nepal for 2024!
