Teahouse Base Trekking Region and Routes
Teahouse base trekking is the most common trekking style in Nepal. It provides food and accommodation so you can trek at your own pace. They provide healthy food and comfortable beds on the trekking trails.
The facilities are not same everywhere, but higher trek, more basic tea house. Teahouse trekking is a great way to learn about local culture and environment.
Trekking in Nepal is an invaluable resource for anyone planning a adventure in Nepal. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
There are many teahouse treks in Nepal. But most popular ones are Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and off-beaten Treks. These treks are popular as they offer stunning views of the Himalayas.
Likewise, beautiful rhododendrons pave along the trails. Teahouses along the trail are a great way to interact with locals. This help you better understand way of life. Plus, you can socialize with fellow travelers from all over the world.
Everest Region
From chilly streams and peaceful elevated views of lower regions to impressive mountain faces, colossal icy masses, and desolate moonscapes of the upper heights, extraordinary scenes of Everest Region are hard to forget.
Trekking in the Everest Region has it all: Panoramic views of mountain peaks, Passing through beautiful Himalayan villages, and the opportunity to interact and learn about unique ethnic group of Nepal.
Trekking here brings you closer to highest mountain in the world. It allow you to trek through monasteries of the Khumbu region.
Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp Trek is only experience that gives you closest experience to highest peaks in the world. It take place to and from Kathmandu within 12-14 days. It is a strenuous trek with highest elevation at Kala Patthar (5,555 m).
Throughout trekking, you view Mount Everest (8,848.86 m). Likewise, you tempted by Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), and Lhotse (8,516 m).
Everest Base Camp Trek offers a spiritual and religious experience. Because you can trek through the region’s largest and oldest monasteries at Tengboche and Pangboche, you have the opportunity to witness unique festivals such as Mani Rimdu and Dumji.
Mani Rimdu celebrates the founding of Buddhism in Tibet by Guru Rinpoche in Tibet. Dumji festival honors the birth of Guru Rinpoche.
Everest Gokyo Valley Trek
The Everest Gokyo Valley Trek takes you to mesmerizing Himalayan Lakes Gokyo Lakes system consists of 19 Himalayan lakes. These are pristine turquoise lakes of glacial origin. Lakes have different features. For example, Lake Tabachi Tso has a mirror-like surface.
It usually includes 13 days of trekking to and from Kathmandu. The highest elevation Gokyo-Ri (5,357 m), offers best views of Gokyo Lake Ngozumpa glacier. It provides panoramic views of Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), and Makalu (8,481 m).
The lake is worshipped by people of both Hindu and Buddhist destinies. Devout Hindus bathe in this lake during Janai Purnima.
Everest Panorama Trek
If you have wanted to trek Everest but were worried about the rugged terrain, Everest Panorama Trek is the answer. Due to low altitude, chance of altitude sickness is meager. It usually takes six days to and from Kathmandu.
You experience beauty of the Himalayas. Learn about Sherpa community and explore a Buddhist Monastery. It takes you through Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. It take you through beautiful trails of the Dudh Koshi River with views of Ama Dablam (6856 m).
Tengboche is a part of Sagarmatha National Park "Sacred Sites Trail Project". This is a circular route that goes clockwise past ten different monasteries. A major sherpa event, the Mani Rimdu Festival, is celebrated at Tengboche Monastery. It has strong links with Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet. It lies at the confluence of Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers.
Annapurna Region
The Annapurna Region is one of most hiked areas in Nepal. It has well-marked trails, is cheaper than other treks, and gets you up close to Annapurna Massif. You get to interact with Gurung people.
Annapurna is named after Hindu Goddess of food and nourishment. As the name suggests, streams descending from this area are source of water for agriculture and pastures. Trekking here allows you to experience the authentic Himalayan lifestyle of Western Nepal.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you closest to Annapurna Massif, passing through vast rhododendron forests. You treated with the views of Annapurna (8,091 m), Macchapuchhre (6,993 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m).
From Critically Endangered Chinese Pangolin to endangered deer, you see plenty of Himalayan biodiversities. Avid botanists even trek through the region to see orchids bloom in Annapurna. The region is, therefore, a true biodiversity paradise.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be completed in 7 to 13 days from Kathmandu. The trek is not too strenuous and affordable. However, if you pay attention, chances of altitude sickness are not very high. Children aged ten and up can participate in this hike, making it a great family vacation.
Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Want an easier trek while enjoying stunning views and cultural experience of the Himalayas?
Then Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is for you.
One of the famous viewpoints in Annapurna area is Poon Hill. From there, you see the snow-capped peaks, especially at sunrise. During trekking, you enjoy panoramic views of Dhaulagiri range, Annapurna massif, and much more.
There are cultural encounters, especially with Gurung people. Poon hill trek done from 3-9 days and can be done all year round. There is no possibility of altitude sickness on this trip. It is a moderate hike so you can plan it as a family trek.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is among the least crowded trekking destinations in Annapurna region. Just established in 2012, it allows you to explore areas of Annapurna region that are usually off the beaten path. These trails allow you to experience Annapurna region and rich Gurung culture in its natural state.
This trek give you a closer look at Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Annapurna South (7,219 m). Mardi trekking quickly done in 6-8 days. Monsoon hiking in Mardi is also popular.
Manaslu Region
The Manaslu region is one of Nepal's least explored areas, allowing you to get to know Nepal's hidden valleys and off-the-beaten paths. Manaslu comes from the Sanskrit word 'Manasa' which means 'mountain of Spirits'.
Government of Nepal only opened route to Manaslu in 1991 and Tsum Valley only in 2008. Partly because the government wanted to preserve it and partly because the region shares an open border with Tibet.
Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek takes you through pristine trekking trails to ancient lands rich in nature. There is no better word to describe this valley than 'Tsum', Tsum is derived from Tibetan word 'Tsombo' which means vibrant.
Most locals are of Tibetan descent, and Tibetan culture can be seen in every aspect of their lives. They practice Buddhism. Its influence is so strong that people sign the vow of non-violence. This prohibits animal sacrifice, going hunting, and forest fires.
The trek takes about 13 days. During this time, you have breathtaking views of Himal Chuli (7,893 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), etc.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek circles summit of Mount Manaslu round. This trail was a historic salt trade route along the lovely Budi Gandaki River. Highest trekking point is Larkya-La Pass (5,106 m), one of the longest passes in Nepal.
This trek offers opportunity to trek off the beaten trek, dazzlingly decorated with other high peaks such as Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Shringi (7,161 m).
This is where Gurung ethnic community lives and is famous for its hospitality and brave Gorkha Battalion. Buddhist temples are scattered throughout the area. You explore Buddhist culture and sites throughout the tour.
Manaslu trekking takes about 16 days to complete and is a moderate-grade trek in Nepal. This hike requires good physical fitness.
Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek
A rare opportunity to explore the ancient lands combined with a rugged trekking experience. Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of those treks. Here you can not only visit the ancient lands of Tsum Valley but take a walk around Manaslu.
In particular, Tsum Valley can be imagined as a pilgrimage to a sacred place. On the trek, you see wild Himalayan Thar and blue sheep. The region is home to the elusive snow leopard.
In trekking, it is possible to interact with 'Tsumbas' and Gurung. Both these ethnic groups have different customs and traditions.
The trek takes a minimum of 21 days and is moderate trekking in Nepal. You have to be in pretty good physical shape to do it.
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Langtang Region
The Langtang Region is a spectacular trek through central Himalayan region of Nepal. The trek provides stunning views of Langtang Lirung (7,234 m).
Langtang region was part of an ancient high road connecting Nepal, Tibet, and India. It transported important goods such as salt, musk, borax, and medicinal herbs.
Langtang trekking takes you across the biodiversity-rich Langtang National Park, home to many endangered species, including red panda.
The Tamang people call this area home and offer a wonderful learning experience about their culture. However, animism and, to a lesser extent, Hinduism have significantly influenced their religious views. As such, the Tamang lifestyle is a unique blend of practices. A trek here give you a closer look at shamanistic practices and local customs.
Langtang Valley Trek
Langtang Valley Trek is perfect for hikers seeking a peaceful trail with few other travelers. You will visit Kyanjin Gompa; a historic monastery supposedly constructed more than 700 years ago. You visit Tserko Ri (4,984 m), highest viewpoint on the trek.
At Kyanjin Gompa, Swiss-style hard alpine cheese is made by dairy farms in the neighboring community. Grave a yak cheese, soak up the sun's warmth with views of mountains in the distance, and enjoy a delightful break from the constraints of modern life.
You enjoy the breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung (7,227 m) and Langtang Ri (7,205 m). Views of Loenpo Gang (6,979 m), Yala Peak (5,520 m), and Ganjala Peak (5,652 m).
This is a moderate-grade trek and takes eight days. If you visit this region between August to September, you may be able to see the Tama Festival. Tama Festival celebrates end of a long meditation by Guru Rinpoche.
Langtang Gosainkunda Trek
Better than spectacular Langtang Valley is Langtang Gosainkunda Trek. Here you visit not only Kyanjin Gompa and Tserko Ri but Gosainkunda with its 108 lakes.
Lord Shiva is said to have created Lake Gosainkunda. Hindu pilgrims dive into the icy waters to cleanse their sins. For this reason, water in this area is revered as sacred. Along its bank are numerous temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The quiet space feels like another world.
It takes 11 days to complete. If you trek here during August and September, you might be able to witness the Janai Purnima festival. Devotees dip in this icy cold lake to get closer to the divinity. Hindu men wear a sacred thread called Janai. Doing so is said to bring longevity and protect the wearer from evil thoughts.
Off-Beaten Treks
Are you tired of the established, managed trails?
Explore Off Beaten Treks and create memories for a lifetime.
Upper Mustang and Nar-Phu are two of Nepal’s best-preserved sites, making you feel like you have stepped into a medieval kingdom. Few tourists visit these places as both are in Restricted Areas of Nepal.
Upper Mustang Trek
Also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom, Mustang was closed off from outside world until 1992. It is a testament to the strong presence of old traditions in this area.
Trekking here takes you to centuries-old monasteries such as Luri Gumba, and Ghar Gumba. You visit a man-made sky cave.
Likewise, Upper Mustang Trek offers the chance to visit walled city of Lo-Manthang. Royal Palace of Upper Mustang, Jampa Lhakhang, and more.
Mustang region is home to the Lobas, who are culturally and ethically closely related to people of Western and Central Tibet.
You get to witness unique Tiji festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil. Celebration takes place through Tibetan songs and dances, colorful dresses, and chanting of mantras.
Add to this natural wonders of desert, such as Red Copper Canyon and cliffs. Additionally, there are beautiful views of snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs.
It takes 16 days to complete, and each day is a unique experience. It consists of Tibetan Buddhism, unique customs, and natural beauty.
Nar-Phu Valley Trek
Nar-Phu Valley is home to colorful Chortens and ancient monasteries. Some religious sites include the Nar Phedi Monastery, Tashi Gumba, Bhraka Monastery, Samdu Choling Gumba, and Yunkar Gumba.
The trail passes through waterfalls, river crossings, small caves, and dense pine forests. This makes you a delightful trail. Mountain views continue throughout, including Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Gangapurna (7,454 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m).
High mountain passes, including Thorung La (5,416 m) and Kang-La Pass (5,322 m), are traversed in this trek. The settlement is in an old traditional village that has preserved old ways of life due to its relative isolation.
The Nar-Phu Valley Trek can be completed in 9 days. Nar-Phu trekking is strenuous as long distances must be covered along the route due to limited accommodation.
Trek Difficulty Rating
There are different grades of hiking in Nepal. This means grading according to difficulty of the trek.
The simplest categories are easy, moderate, strenuous, and challenging hikes.
Easy to moderately difficult hikes, no prior trekking experience required. Easy hikes take place in lowlands, usually through villages, and learning about the culture.
Moderate treks range from 2500 m to 4000 m altitude, with uphill and downhill hikes close to the mountains.
The strenuous treks cover altitudes from 4000 m to 5500 m and require a reasonable fitness level.
Challenging treks are usually trekking over 5500 m and have a higher chance of altitude sickness. To do so, you need previous trekking experience and sufficient physical fitness.
Trekking Permits
Trekking in Nepal requires multiple permits. A National Park/Conservation Area Permit is required for a national park or conservation area.
It costs around USD 25, but children under 10 are free. Trekking permits are available at Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or at entrance of protected area.
TIMS is required for hiking outside protected areas and restricted areas. The TIMS card has two provisions. Prices are USD 20 per person for individual travelers and USD 10 per person for group trekkers.
TIMS can be obtained from Tourist Service Centers, Trekking Agencies Association Nepal (TAAN) offices, or government-registered trekking companies.
Some places, such as Khumbu region, require you to apply for a local area permit in place of TIMS. It costs around USD 17 per person for the first four weeks.
Similarly, for restricted areas like Upper Mustang, you must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). However, if you have applied for RAP, you do not have to apply for TIMS for that place.
A RAP is issued by the immigration office and costs USD 500 per person for ten days and USD 50 for each additional day. Only a Tour trekking Company can apply on your behalf.
If you want to know more about the Nepal trekking experience, consulting with local experts and experienced trekking companies is always best.
Best Time to Trekking in Nepal
The best times to trek in Nepal are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Visit us for more about Weather in Nepal for hiking time.
Spring trekking is comfortable and warm. The likelihood of canceled flights due to sunny spring weather is very low. Temperature during spring in Nepal is 21 degrees Celsius. Nepal's weather is neither too hot nor too cold during this time.
Autumn days are warm; weather is stable, sunny, and clear. However, busy trails get crowded on sunny days due to many tourists. The temperature during this season ranges from 10 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.
Several trekking routes can be walked all year round, with destinations for each trekking season. For example, botanists may find it particularly attractive to see wild orchids blooming during summer or monsoon season.
Summer season in Nepal starts in June and ends in late August. The temperature during summer in Nepal is 30 degrees Celsius.
Similarly, some of Nepal's Trans-Himalayan treks, such as Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpa, are not affected by monsoon rains. So you can plan your hikes here during these periods.
Winter in Nepal lasts from December to February. Nepal experienced a drastic drop in temperature during the night. Daytime usually is OK.
Tea House Meals
Tea houses serve meals to eat along the trails. Most common meals served on the trekking trail are Nepali staple foods - Dal Bhat and Tarkari. It consists of rice, lentil soup, and various vegetables and pickles. Meat is also available. Food synergies provide you with carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and more.
Breakfast typically includes flatbread, oatmeal, cornflakes, porridge, and coffee or tea. Different local dishes are served depending on where you hike.
Some tea house trips provide Western food such as pizza, noodles, sandwiches, and baked goods. Langtang region is especially famous for its bakery items and yak cheese.
Tea houses serve local alcohol such as rice beer – Chhyang, Tongba – Tibetan hot beer, Marpha – apple brandy, etc. These local alcohols are mostly home-brewed.
Tea House Accommodation
Most of accommodations along trekking route are located in teahouses. Before the business venture, these households always provided food and tea to the group. But name has stuck since then.
A teahouse resembles a huge family home open to receive visitors. Most rooms have two small cots, each with its mattress, pillow, and sheets. Additionally, you can request extra blankets.
The toilet can be either a Western-style flush type or a squat type. Toilet paper is not provided most of the time, but water with a ladle for washing up is provided. Usually, you have to pay extra for electricity and hot showers.
Tea houses can be multi-story concrete structures with private rooms and Western-style bathrooms at lower altitudes. Accommodations become more modest as you ascend.
Solo Trekking
Trekking solo is an entirely different experience. You learn more about yourself and remember better the trails you have traveled. From permits to logistics, you are on your own.
It's relatively easy to trek past well-maintained trails, like Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp trekking trails.
However, not all hiking trails are well-marked, and many risks are associated with high-altitude hiking.
From altitude sickness to accidental injuries, hiking at high altitudes can make planning difficult.
If you walk off the beaten path or hike at unconventional times, you are hiking the trail alone, which can be scary. Even solo trekking will miss our precious companionship.
Updates: Nepal Government prohibits hikers without a Trekking Guide.
Guided Trekking
Guided trekking has many benefits. First, you don't have to worry about booking a room or finding the best restaurants.
All permits will be applied, and all necessary paperwork completed. This is perfect if you are traveling in Nepal for a brief period.
Guided treks allow you to get in touch with locals as your guide overcomes the language barrier.
Likewise, local knowledge you get from guided trek is immeasurable, as the guide is knowledgeable about culture and region.
Guided trekking is, therefore, a hassle-free trekking experience. Guided trekking is more comfortable and convenient, especially if you are going to a foreign country for the first time.
Guides and Porters
Guides and porters are essential to making hiking easy and fun. The team leader has a wealth of knowledge about animal migration, local languages, weather systems, and more.
So, you can return from your trip with much knowledge without the stress of traveling to a foreign land with a good guide.
Porters carry loads even in the challenging terrain of Nepal. Treks in Nepal are pretty long and can sometimes take a month.
Having people who speak your language is very comfortable and makes the trip more enjoyable.
Transportation
Nepal currently has two international airports. One lands in the historic city of Kathmandu and other in the birthplace of Gautama, founder of Buddhism.
Both locations serve as bases for sightseeing and travel planning. However, Kathmandu may be a better option if you need last-minute hiking arrangements.
Within Kathmandu, you have a choice of local buses or taxis. Avid trekkers mostly head to Pokhara and can be reached by private vehicle, local bus, or plane.
However, private jeep or domestic flights must be used for trips outside of these urban areas. All major cities are connected by air. A flight costs more than the bus but is a more convenient option. However, buses are the way to go if you want to see different landscapes, interact with the locals, and learn about Nepali culture.
Tragically, long bus trips, flight cancellations, and unexpected delays are commonplace. So add a few extra days when planning your trip and enjoy your adventure.
Health and Safety
Hiking at high altitudes carries risk of altitude sickness. This is not a severe condition in the short run. However, continuing despite difficulties can be fatal.
You may take medication to avoid possible altitude sickness. But first of all, it is necessary to allow acclimatization.
During the trek, you should strategically plan your acclimatization days and avoid excessive drinking, which lead to altitude sickness.
Likewise, staying hydrated and consuming warm soups and good healthy foods can help avoid altitude sickness.
Avoid drinking untreated water. Cool spring water may be tempting to quench your thirst but don't drink it unless you have a portable water filter like the Life Straw.
Only use properly boiled or filtered water while traveling. Carry a small first aid kit as there are few health centers in remote areas.
Travel insurance is mandatory in Nepal. This insurance covers the cost of helicopter evacuation, medical expenses, and cancellations beyond control due to weather conditions.
The premium for 30 days is approximately USD 150. Insurance is a must when embarking on a trip to high altitude. If you need to be evacuated by helicopter, which costs around USD 5,000, it means a huge blow to your finances.
Phones and Wi-Fi
Both phones and Wi-Fi are available in Nepal, but services may not be the same. There are many telecom operators in Nepal, but the largest area is Nepal Telecom and Ncell. SIMS can be purchased at local stores for less than USD 1.
You can use 4G or 3G service from these SIMS. 1 GB of data costs about USD 10 and can be used anywhere the network is available. However, service is likely to be dropped within the trekking path.
Most tea houses along the hiking routes have Wi-Fi connectivity, but some require you to pay a service fee, which can be quite expensive.
Tour Trekking Companies
Trekking companies are here to make all the logistics arrangements and create bespoke itineraries. They also provide best guides and porters.
Permits such as restricted area permits must be applied for through a trekking company. Likewise, booking accommodation and meals is a hassle as you have to negotiate prices that trekking companies can easily handle.
Tour Trekking companies in Nepal provide security and primary care in case of medical emergencies.
They employ knowledgeable, experienced, and friendly guides. This helps you better understand the place by providing information about the area's history and its people.
Visa Information
A tourist visa is required to enter Nepal. You can apply on arrival or at the Nepalese Diplomatic Mission in your home country. Visit us for Nepal Travel Information about visa details.
There are three steps to obtaining a visa on arrival. First, fill out the arrival card and tourist visa form. Then make the payment at your bank according to your visa requirements.
- 15-day visa is USD 30
- 30-day visa is USD 50,
- 90-day visa is USD 125.
Then go to the immigration office with the form and proof of payment.
You must enter Nepal within six months if you have obtained a visa from a Nepali diplomatic mission. Your stay is counted from the day you enter Nepal. Visit the Nepal government's official site for more visa requirements.
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Trekking in Nepal - A complete travel guide is an excellent starting point to plan your trekking adventure in Nepal. If you want to know more about the Nepal trekking experience, consulting with local experts and experienced trekking companies is always best.
