Trekking Tips For First Time Adventurers To Nepal

Trekking Tips For First Time Adventurers To Nepal

THE RUGGED TRAILS OF NEPAL

• Trekkers place Nepal as one of their top destinations where one can enjoy amazing views of the world's tallest mountains and challenging trekking peaks.

TIPS 1: PICK THE TREK THAT YOU'RE COMFORTABLE WITH

• When it comes to trekking in Nepal, the choices are endless. Whether you are a beginner with no experience or a hardcore trekker/climber who has been doing this their whole lives, the first thing you need to do is to select a trek you're comfortable doing and one that would reward you with great views and insights into local cultures and peoples.

TIPS2: LEARN SAFETY RULES WHEN TREKKING

• Nirajan emphasizes that when trekking, safety is important, especially for first-timers to the country. You need to be smart and be prepared for your trek. Know where you are going, how many days you'll be spending there and then collecting the necessary information about that place. If you're heading to Nepal for the first time, this research you do prior to arriving in Kathmandu is crucial. Be prepared for anything, he advises.

TIPS3: SELECT A GOVERNMENT REGISTERED TREKKING AGENCY

• Once you've done the above, it is also important to select a reputable government registered travel agency because like any underdeveloped country, there are touts and scammers out there, so play it safe and sign up with an agency that really knows their trails inside and out and is licensed.

Even with these permits in hand, there are restrictions and other requirements for many of the country's famous (and difficult) trekking routes which include treks to Everest Base Camp and Lo Manthang.

TIPS4: TREK WITH A GUIDE. TRY NOT TO TREK ALONE

• Some trekking routes like the Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Dolpo requires hikers to get special permits from the Department of Immigration that specifically stipulates that trekkers must join an authorized trekking agency that provides experienced guides for the journey. Trekking with guides is safer in Nepal than going it alone in high mountains given the temperamental weather conditions and how unpredictable the trails are in these areas. There have been several cases of solo trekkers going MIA in Nepal before so be sensible.

TIPS5: KEEP AN OPEN MIND ON YOUR TRIP

• Another tip that Nirajan dispenses is to keep an open mind. When trekking in Nepal you have to be able to adjust to the local people and their culture, food, and language. It's not a first-world country so don't expect first-world amenities, he warns.

TIPS6: GET YOUR BODY PHYSICALLY FIT BEFORE TREK

• Going on a trek in Nepal also requires a certain level of fitness. Your legs have to be as strong so they can go the distance. After all, these hikes can last hours or several days. You'll be pounding your feet for hours at a time and roughing it out in cozy, no-frills tea-houses along the way. Eventually, you're going to experience some serious aches and pains that will set in as your journey progresses.

To minimize such strain, begin your training regimen at least 2-3 months in advance of your trip by walking on stairs, cycling and doing treks in your home country. Train with a 10-pound backpack as well because you want your body to get used to carrying some weight over these long distances.

TIPS7: ACCLIMATIZE AND ACCLIMATIZE

• To add to that, take a time to acclimatize because many trekkers are bound to experience some degree of altitude sickness especially when hiking at an altitude of 3,000m. The trick is to walk slowly, drink lots of water and stay alert. If something is wrong or you're not feeling good, it's best to consult with guides. They will have a first aid kit handy if you're suddenly taken ill during your trek.

TIPS 8: TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH APPROPRIATE COVERAGE.

• You also have to make sure you have your travel insurance ready to cover any medical evacuations that will be required in the event of an emergency before you head up into the mountains. This is compulsory in case of serious injury or illness on your journey.

Only when all the above nitty-gritty is taken care of, can you safely stuff your backpacks and jaunt off to Nepal to enjoy your trek. It is the best way to explore some of the world's most incredible sights here on the planet and experience Nepali hospitality; one that has incredible life-changing effects on those who undertake these journeys. Friendships are made, mental and physical strength is challenged and of course, spirits lifted along the way while enjoying it rugged and amazing natural beauty

From: Out of the Town blog (Rugged Trails Nepal Team leader Nirajan was interviewed on Asia Leading women's site Tomboy.)

Nepal Travel & Trekking Agencies