What to Do Before a Trek in Nepal

Preparing well before your trek ensures a safer, smoother, and more enjoyable experience in the mountains. Whether you're doing Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang, or Manaslu, these steps apply to all major treks.

Get the Right Permits

Region Required Permits
Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu TIMS Card + Area Permit (e.g., ACAP, MCAP)
Everest Region Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit + Sagarmatha National Park Permit
Restricted Areas (Upper Mustang, Nar-Phu, Manaslu High) Special Restricted Area Permit (through registered guide/agency only)
  • Visit Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Pack Smart

Essential items to bring:

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Down jacket, thermals, windproof outerwear
  • Backpack + rain cover
  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold weather)
  • Water bottles + purification tablets
  • First aid kit + personal medications
  • Headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm
  • Power bank, map/app, toiletries
  • Copies of permits, passport photos, insurance
    Keep it light but functional. Pack for layering as weather changes quickly at altitude.

Prepare Physically

  • Do cardio workouts (hiking, jogging, stair climbing) at least 4-6 weeks in advance
  • Strengthen legs and core muscles
  • Practice carrying a backpack during short hikes
  • Acclimatize before trekking above 3,000 m if possible

Manage Money

  • Withdraw enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • No ATMs in most trekking regions (except Namche, Jomsom)
  • Carry small bills for tea houses, snacks, showers, Wi-Fi, and tips

Sort Documents

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • Visa for Nepal (available on arrival or online)
  • Trek permits (see #1)
  • Travel insurance that includes high-altitude rescue coverage
  • Keep digital and printed copies of all key documents

Know About Altitude Sickness

  • Learn symptoms of AMS (Altitude Sickness)
  • Plan acclimatization days (e.g., at Namche, Manang)
  • Carry Diamox and drink plenty of water
  • Do not ascend too fast (max 500 m per day above 3,000 m)

Choose Guide & Porter (Optional but Recommended)

  • Licensed guide provides navigation, safety, local knowledge
  • Porter helps carry bags (limit ~15-20 kg)
  • Guides/porters also ensure community income and smoother logistics
  • Hire from registered trekking agencies

Download Trekking Apps & Offline Maps

Suggested apps:

  • Maps.me
  • AllTrails
  • Trekking in Nepal (TMI Nepal)
  • Weather apps like Windy or AccuWeather

Learn Local Etiquette

  • Greet locals with "Namaste"
  • Walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls
  • Remove shoes before entering temples or homes
  • Don't touch others on the head or point feet at shrines
  • Respect animals, nature, and locals' privacy

Pre-Book or Confirm Stays (If Possible)

  • In peak seasons (March-May, Sept-Nov), teahouses can get full
  • Consider pre-booking the first few nights or use local contacts

Emergency Contacts to Save

  • Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA)
  • Trekking Agency or Guide Contact
  • Embassy Contact (if foreign traveler)
  • Insurance Provider's Emergency Number