5 Things you should know before trekking in Nepal

1. 5 Things you should know before trekking in Nepal Be it trekking to high pass over 5,000m or stepping foot at the base camp of 8,000+ peaks or simply going for high altitude trek in Nepal, there are some important things to know before heading for the journey.

2. Here are the list of five things you must know before trekking in Himalayas of Nepal: • Altitude Sickness Always be concerned about the altitude sickness. When you are travelling to altitude more than 2600m, there is high risk of getting victim of altitude sickness. Make sure that you take altitude concern seriously before you embark on your high-altitude trips. Even though the initial stage and symptoms are quite harmless, if you don’t listen your body, it can be lethal. Ling headaches, nausea and disorientation are some initial symptoms of mountain sickness. If you experience any those symptoms, make sure you take that seriously and start descending until you feel better. There are plethora of trekking routes which pose high risk of acute mountain sickness. When you are heading for Everest Base Camp Trek or Everest three pass trek or Upper Dolpo Trek or any other treks that concern noticeable gain in altitude in short time, you must follow the altitude factors seriously. Acclimatization and proper hydration are key for getting rid of altitude sickness.

3. Trekking Gear • It totally depends on the terrain or area you are trekking in to decide which trekking gear you must need to carry. • Even though you are trekking below 3,000m that don’t pose many risks in general or going for high pass trek, the proper selection of gear is the must. The trekking routes in Nepal don’t demands technical climbing skills but taking right gear makes your journey comfortable and safe. • For example: if you are out for Everest three pass, you must carry crampons, some ropes and boots to cross high glacial passes.

4. Plan day gaps • Nature is always unpredictable, so make sure to get some contingency days in order to fulfil the planned itinerary. The roads in Nepal are rather unpredictable so having some gap days in your trekking is always a good idea. Especially if you are flying to Lukla or Jomsom, the flights often get delayed or cancelled due to unfavorable weather conditions.

5. Hire guides and porter • Trekking independently can be adventurous but it is not certainly for everybody. Always hire guide or porter or both as they are very acquainted with local environment and nature. Trekking with guide or porter will reduce many risks associate with trekking and it will enhance your experience. • Most of trekking guide speak English well and have vast insights of local area. Moreover, some region of Nepal are restricted for trekking where you need to accompany local registered guide to access the area.

6. Carry comprehensive medical kits • When you are heading for high altitude treks in Nepal, don’t forget to carry the medical kits with all necessary medicines. As there will be no medical centers near your trekking routes, you must be prepared for all this. • Your medical kits must posses medicines for altitude sickness, headache, stomachache, diarrhea and bandage and other medicines for cuts.