General FAQs
How to obtain visa to travel to Nepal?
You can obtain “VISA” to Nepal through embassy or other diplomatic mission to your country. You can also obtain visa at entry points to Nepal or at the airport in the immigration for merely $40. The extension of visa requires an additional payment of $30. Do not forget to carry some passport size photos with you.
I want to go on a trek. What is the best time and place for it?
Everything you want to do is time and cost specific. Besides, your experience in trekking will also matter. There is wide range of options in Nepal if you want to explore. If you arrive in proper season, that is, between September to November (Autumn Season) and March to May (Spring Season), you might just experience something that you will be able to cherish for the lifetime. The shortest of trek can be Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, Langtang Helambu Trek or the Annapurna Circuit. The Everest trek and the full Annapurna sanctuary Trek can be ideal if you have a little more time. Finally, if you are looking for something that’s longer and more challenging, you’re looking at Kanchanjunga or Makalu area Trek.
What are the best trekking routes?
Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Basecamp, Everest Basecamp, Dhaulagiri Circuit, Manaslu Circuit and Kanchanjunga are the most popular trekking routes in Nepal.
Should I trek with an agency or should I trek alone?
Trekking alone can be a good experience if you are familiar with the terrain and have quite a few experiences in the area. Nobody can drag you down, and you can move at your own pace savoring the pleasant sceneries around to you. However, if it is your first experience or so, you might want to travel in group or with an agency. Should situations like medical emergencies, isolation due to disasters, etc. occur, having a group can be a matter of relief. If you have no group and you’re all by yourselves, you can hire a porter or a guide.
What is a trekking peak?
Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) classifies certain peaks between altitudes of 5000 m to 7000 m that can be climbed in a day as trekking peak. The total accent from basecamp to the peak and the decent back to the base camp can be accomplished in a day. The license for those peaks can be obtained from NMA.
Who can climb a peak?
Experience or no experience, it requires certain level of fitness to climb a peak. Depending upon the altitude and difficulty level, some training might also be necessary. However, there are certain mountains that can be climbed by a trekker or someone with no experience at all.
I have never climbed a peak before. Can I go for peak climbing?
Climbing a peak requires certain preparation. Although some of small peaks are easy enough for even regular trekkers to climb, others require high degree of training, preparation and experience. So, the bottom-line is, if you want to climb it, of course you can climb it. But it all depends upon the degree of preparation and experience. Hence, it’s wise to start with smaller, easier peaks, and train yourself for harsher ones.
What is climbing permit?
Climbing permit is the legal document issued by the Government of Nepal validating a climber’s attempt to climb a definite peak or a route.
Do I need climbing permit?
Yes. Everyone intending to climb a peak requires a climbing permit.
Who will lead me during climbing?
You’ll be provided a well trained and experienced guide during the climb.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel Insurance is absolutely necessary. Details about insurance is provided in ‘Terms & Conditions’ and also in a separate topic.
Which is the best season for trekking & peak climbing?
March to May (Spring Season) and August to November (Autumn Season) are the best seasons for both trekking and climbing.
What will be the condition of accommodation while climbing?
During your stay in base camp, you will be provided a tent. You will also be provided food appropriate to your upcoming endeavor. Before you reach the base camp, you will be placed in a Hotel, lodge or tea house.
How much time is generally required for trekking peak?
It depends upon the difficulty level and height of the peak, weather and individual’s ability to cope up with the environment. Normally, the ascent and descent between base camp and peak will take one to two days.
Is it mandatory to tip the porter?
Neither your potter nor your guide will ask you for a tip apart from the payment that he’s actually agreed on. However, if his work impresses you, you are free to tip as you please.
Is communication to our home country possible while on a trek or climb?
Nepal’s communication facilities are getting day by day, and most portions of trekking routes have mobile phone coverage. In case of a climb, VHF or satellite phones are available at the base camp. In both cases, weather can play an important role in communication.
1. Mount Everest - Normal Route
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