A First-Timer's Guide to Trekking in Nepal
New to Nepal trekking? Here’s how to choose a route, get your permits and trek safely in the Himalayas.
Pick the right trek
You don’t need to be an athlete. Short routes like Poon Hill (4–5 days) and Australian Camp (overnight) deliver big Annapurna views with gentle days. The Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks are longer 7–14 day commitments at higher altitude.
Permits and paperwork
Most treks need a TIMS card and a regional permit (ACAP for Annapurna, Sagarmatha for Everest). Indians enter Nepal visa-free, but trekking permits still apply — arrange them in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or let your operator handle them.
Altitude and safety
Above 3,000 m, ascend slowly and build in acclimatisation days. Hire a licensed guide or porter-guide — it boosts safety, supports the local economy and means you never get lost on the trail. Carry basic medicines and travel insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation.
What to pack
Layer up: a warm down jacket, fleece, thermals, broken-in trekking boots and a good sleeping bag. Teahouses provide beds and dal bhat along the way, so you can trek light — but pack a power bank, water purification and cash for the trail.
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Plan my Nepal tripFrequently asked questions
Pick the right trek — what should I know?
You don’t need to be an athlete. Short routes like Poon Hill (4–5 days) and Australian Camp (overnight) deliver big Annapurna views with gentle days. The Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks are longer 7–14 day commitments at higher altitude.
Permits and paperwork — what should I know?
Most treks need a TIMS card and a regional permit (ACAP for Annapurna, Sagarmatha for Everest). Indians enter Nepal visa-free, but trekking permits still apply — arrange them in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or let your operator handle them.
Altitude and safety — what should I know?
Above 3,000 m, ascend slowly and build in acclimatisation days. Hire a licensed guide or porter-guide — it boosts safety, supports the local economy and means you never get lost on the trail. Carry basic medicines and travel insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation.
What to pack — what should I know?
Layer up: a warm down jacket, fleece, thermals, broken-in trekking boots and a good sleeping bag. Teahouses provide beds and dal bhat along the way, so you can trek light — but pack a power bank, water purification and cash for the trail.