Planning your Trek

Planning your Trek

Adventure Thamserku Treks & Expeditions (P.) Ltd.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
cool & dry warm, dry & hazy monsoon warm, dry & clear cool & dry

The trekking season extends from late September until the end of May. During the monsoon (June to September), trails are very wet and the clouds obscure views, making trekking unsuitable (unless you plan to trek in Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo or Tibet).

The most popular time to trek or climb is in Autumn (October and November) after the monsoon. The air has been washed crystal clear by the rains, and the “weather is quite stable” and “expect warmer daytime temperatures” nights are cool, and skies clear. In these ideal conditions, Kathmandu and the trekking trails can become quite crowded.

If you are going up to very high altitudes, you may not want to plan your trek for the heart of Winter (December to February). Night temperatures can be bitterly cold up high. But conditions are still pleasant on the lower trails, with crisp days and clear skies, and less trekkers about.

In the Spring (March to late May), expect warmer day temperatures, but hazy visibility and cloud cover are also more likely, especially in the afternoons. However, it is the season when the spectacular wildflowers blossom, including the wonderful rhododendrons.

Trek Choice

Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness can join one of our treks. However, for your own enjoyment, it is important that you read our trek descriptions. We give each of our treks a rating: Easy, Moderate, Challenging, or Mountaineering. These indicate, in increasing order, the effort and challenge level based on the length of time walking each day, the difficulty of terrain covered and the altitude reached. Please select the grade of trek you feel comfortable with.

Whatever your choice, the more physical preparation you do, the more you will enjoy your walking.

Physical Preparation

Take regular exercise, and include some day trips where you walk for the suggested maximum number of hours for your intended trek. Wear the gear that you plan to take, so that you know you will be comfortable in it. In particular, break in any new equipment (boots and pack, for example) before you come.

For treks rated Challenging or Mountaineering, we advise that your level of fitness should be high. You should be involved in regular aerobic exercise – for example, swimming, cycling, running, or uphill walking carrying a load on your back. Stamina is a key aspect – both physical and mental. Remember that altitude is a significant factor, and a slow but steady pace is the best way to succeed in the mountains. Even if you are a super-fit athlete, don’t expect to be able to perform as you would at sea level!

Please contact us personally if you require further advice about choosing or preparing for your trek.