Trekking Arrangements

There are different approaches to trekking in Nepal and the choice depends on time available, budget, experience and personal preference.

Some of the travel agencies abroad in collaboration with the Nepalese trekking agencies book trekking packages for Nepal in advance. Trekkers who are alone or who do not have much time can book with these overseas agencies. One can also contact trekking agencies by mail, internet or contact them personally on arrival in Nepal. There are quite a few government recognized trekking agencies which have professional staff to handle trekking activities. A fully equipped trek primarily consists of essential logistical arrangements including porters, guide, cook, food, tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, transport to and from trekking starting points, flight arrangement, permits, staff insurance and so on. These agent also provide a choice of itineraries and necessary information on trekking health care etc. The cost of an all inclusive trek ranges from US $ 25:00 to US $ 100:00 per person per day depending upon the quality of service, number of days and number of persons in the package. This style of trekking is relatively expensive compared to that of backpacking but a few extra dollars guarantees comfort and security eliminates time consuming ordeal of organization and ensures a trouble free holiday. There are limited areas where a backpacking type of trek can be undertaken by an individual.

A companion guide is helpful in the remote wilderness and is enjoyable to talk to on the route. It is strongly advised not to employ free-lance guides or the services of any agency not recognized by the government.

List of Clothing Equipment & Personal Effects

• Lightweight walking boots. Also bring spare laces.
• A pair of track-shoes. To wear in the camp at night or when boot is wet.
• Warm Jacket. Fiber fill or down should be adequate (necessary during winter).
• Woolen shirt or thick sweater. A rain proof jacket with hood or a poncho.
• A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks.
• Thermal underwear (excellent to sleep at night). A track -suit.
• 1-2 pair of loose fitting shorts/skirts.
• 2-4 cotton shirts.
• A woolen hat to wear in the morning and at night.
• A pair of gloves, leather with lining and woolen is best.
• 2 pairs of thick woolen socks.

Equipment

• Duffle bag or kit bag to carry gear while trekking.
• Day pack, this is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day e.g. toilet items, camera, film, towel , soap etc.
• Water bottle.
• Snow glasses and sunglasses.
• Small head lamp or torch.
• Snow gaiter essential during winter.
• An umbrella, can be used as a walking stick.
• Reading materials, camera & film, note books, diary, pen/pencil, small air pillow for head rest.
• Thermal rest (optional) an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of passport photograph.
• Personal medical supplies.