Especially for solo or individual travelers who wish to trek on their own without being accompanied by a proper legal guide. The new rules have been declared, that from April 1st, 2023 onwards there will be no more solo trekking.

As per the fresh new law issued by the Government of Nepal and the Tourism Department. Where all must join and book with reputed local trekking agencies Regisrated and Authorized by the Tourism Department of Nepal. 

Those good days are gone when trekkers enjoyed trekking alone as solo travelers or with a couple of friends. Joining the same Himalayan destinations in Nepal, especially young trekkers loved walking on their own or with friends.

Individual or solo trekkers just needed a good guidebook and maps of the areas. Where they could travel around anywhere in Nepal Himalayas, except some areas listed as restricted. But from April 2023 onwards, solo trekkers, as known as FIT (Free Individual trekker/tourist) in the tourism world.

Will be not allowed to trek as FIT or solo, must be accompanied by guide holding Government approved license. As well as the related Tourism Department of Nepal, the rules apply from this year 2023, the 1st of April.

Most travelers around the world might be unaware of the new regulation made by the Nepal Tourism Department. For various reasons Government of Nepal and the Tourism Department came to the decision, not to allow individuals to trek on their own. Since Nepal became the foremost and premier country as number one for all types of adventure like trekking.

Where trekkers could travel around the Nepal Himalayas without the aid or company of a guide. The solo or individual became popular among the group of young people who dared to venture on their own.

Saving the cost of guides and porters, they could trek on their spending limited expenses of shoestring budgets. Trekking solo or as independent travelers, allowed the freedom to do their way. Either staying much longer in one place or moving on to cover the destination in a short frame of time.

The solo trekkers had their own will of desire and interest as well as mixing with the locals and making friends. Which was an enjoyable way of taking pleasure in Nepal being a solo or individual trekker. The main reason for traveling individually or solo is to save expenses and as well to enjoy and fulfilling a dream destination.

The Good and Bad Sides of Trekking Solo as an Individual

The good side of trekking solo as an individual is, first of all saving expenses and traveling at minor or standard budgets. On solo trekking having the liberty to do their way and plan their itinerary as per one budget.

As solo individual trekkers can choose their overnight stops as well mixing with the locals and the cultures. Making the treks shorter or longer days as per the permit issued for a certain number of days. 

The bad side of trekking solo as an individual, in the first place, is if one gets sick. Due to the hygiene in food and drinking water or from own medical history, as well from high altitude. The solo can face all types of consequences that can lead to serious problems, especially in the midst of nowhere. Where next villages or health posts are not available within reach, can lead to the danger of getting worse. At that time of serious needs, one will feel bad and regret not having a guide to accompany. Taking a good guide from a reliable company either from Kathmandu or Pokhara will be a great help and support.

The Good Side of Having a Guide to Accompany

The good positive side of having a guide will be a great company and knowing the cultures and customs. The guide can provide much information and knowledge of the areas of travel from local traditions to flora and fauna.

As well as a guide can communicate well with the local villagers and makes the trekking much more meaningful and worth it. The guide can show you the better routes if you are confused with turn-off in most places on treks. Where there are no signboards or arrows to show the right directions, with a guide at least one will be safe. Especially if one gets sick, at least the guide can take care and will do his best, to bring; the patient to the nearest safe place.

There are many ways where a guide can do wonders to make your holidays most enjoyable and memorable. In the past years, there were certain cases of trekking even on the main trails, where some trekkers got lost. Who has disappeared without any traces except for the name and passport recorded by and registrar at local checkpoints? 

Some were trekkers were found having been lost for many days feeling weak and sick with hunger. Those were the trekkers who chose the wrong direction without knowing of the danger that befalls.

So having a guide and booking with a good reliable local company is the safest mode of trekking around the Nepal Himalayas.

The reason for having a guide from this year 2023 onwards is for your safety and to be secure. Around the Himalayas accidents, landslides or avalanches with broken trails can happen at any time; even at the best time of the season.

Nepal is always known as a safe and friendly place with great hospitality for foreign visitors. But sometimes solo and individual trekkers have made the wrong impression of the country. Especially with the missing trekkers who have been lost and some never been found. After being searched by various companies’ professional and veteran guides who were experts in the areas.

Conclusion of Having Guides

Being solo or individual trekkers might be good to trek with limited budgets, but the danger is always there. Where and how no one knows of sudden unfortunate incidence that might be risky ways of traveling on their own. Taking guides will be there always, to keep you away from danger, as well as being good company and comfort. The good thing about having a guide is you are employing him, where he can earn a better living.

During Covid-19 all guides were out of their job and were in bad positions without any work for two years. This is the dawning of good ways of trekking in the Himalayas having a guide, and you feel good; and that you are employing him/her. As well the guide can have a better future in trekking, and bring a good economy to the country including lodges on route trekking.

The post Solo Trekking in Nepal is no Longer Allowed from April 2023 Onwards appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Overviews:

Teahouse or Camping Trekking in Nepal, a great choice to enjoy fascinating scenic adventure around the high Himalayas. Besides Nepal, there are only a few places in the world to provide such facilities in harmony with scenic mountain views. Tea House and Camping Trekking in Nepal

Around Nepal Himalayas, trekkers can relive the days after a pleasant walk in the comfort of nice lodges and resorts. As well as choices of camping which makes the adventure even more classic spending overnights in cozy tents.

Nepal is regarded as the world’s leading and renowned adventure destination, where travelers have the options of tea-house / lodge or camping. 

In the early days, trekking started with camping, and over the years with more arrival of trekkers, then tea house flourished. On Tea House trekking spending overnights and having meals in local lodges, and camping on off the beaten tracks.

Teahouse Trekking in Nepal:

Information on what is Teahouse Trekking:

Teahouse Trekking is spending overnights in local lodges, having meals in the same place, with lunch stop on the route. 

In early days on mains trekking trails around villages, where trekkers could find refuge and shelter in local small tea shops. Which served as simple lodges and inns with basic meals the famous Nepalese Dal-Bhat. As the flow of trekkers increased every season of the year, then nice lovely huts and cottages were built. 

At present visitors can find comfort staying overnights in good lodges known as tea-house, with fancy rooms and a large dining hall. All lodges or Tea House caters to all the needs required by trekkers from nice accommodation to the excellent food menu. Along with great facilities provides hot and cold showers as well Wi-Fi and internets with warm cozy dining rooms. 

Teahouse with various standards to choose from as per one’s budget from simple basic, standard to luxury class lodges. Where most Tea houses and lodges offer all types of rooms, either twin sharing or single supplement / private rooms.

Trekkers in search of high standard comfort can book in for luxury lodges or resorts, especially around Annapurna and Everest region.

Single Supplement / Private Rooms:

Private rooms are also known as single supplements in the tourism and hotel industry, where customers can book for single supplements. At extra expenses on top of the trip package cost, normally the price is set on a twin sharing basis.  

Private rooms where available as of season-wise, during high and peak times, most lodges are full with limited rooms. It also depends on the trekking region, where most main large villages have many good lodges of different categories and standards. But higher up around smaller villages and temporary settlements, single supplement, private rooms might not be available depending upon seasons.

Where trekkers have to compromise on twin sharing room for few days, till main villages are reached on the way back. This type of situation normally happens around high seasons, your guide will inform ahead regarding the possibilities of private rooms.   

Around main large villages, single/private rooms are available with attached bath and toilets. Higher areas the facilities lack with the only choice of common bathrooms, where one needs to pay for using hot showers.

Twin Sharing Rooms:

Twin-sharing rooms are normally allocated by all travel and trekking agencies’ for customers based on trip cost. Where couples and friends share the same rooms on treks as well on hotels in Kathmandu or other major cities.

Twin sharing rooms depending upon the region of trekking, around major villages and towns either with attached or common bath. For individual travelers without close partners or friends have to share the room with other trekkers of the same group. Sharing rooms allows mutual friendship among the group of trekkers and makes the trip more enjoyable. For odd numbers of trekkers in the group like 3, 5, 7, and 9 people, on route treks. Have to share with other new people, apart from your group which happens sometimes in high peak season. 

Sharing Rooms in a Dormitory:

Normally happens staying in a dormitory for shoe-string budget trekkers, who cannot afford single or twin sharing rooms. This condition applies to a group of close friends and relatives or family members, who like to stay together in a dormitory. Dormitory rooms on treks have 4 to 6 beds or more, the cheapest way to enjoy the treks in Nepal. All dormitory without attached bath and toilets, needs the common facilities, as well paying extra for hot/cold showers.    

One has to share the dormitory room among other trekkers, guides, staff, and porters as well in some places. All dormitories have pillows, clean bedsheets, and blankets, but always good and hygienic to carry your sleeping bags.

Teahouse Hospitality and Other Etiquettes:

In Nepal from cities, towns, and remote hill villages the landlord and villagers are always polite, helpful, and supportive. Taking good care of all types of customers reminding them of happy and enjoyable times during their stay. 

The beauty and charm of Nepal apart from spectacular scenery and culture is the warm hospitality of all Nepalese villagers. 

All trekkers are regarded as important and valued guests, greeted with a friendly smile, and adorns customer with traditional welcome and farewell. In every lodge and tea house, where trekker feels homely ambiance with wonderful services offered to all guest. Arrives as a stranger and departs as a friend with unforgettable memories to take home of beautiful Nepalese warm gesture. 

Meals Served in Teahouse / Lodge:

In most major trekking routes around the Annapurna region, Everest region, and Langtang region, Manaslu region meals are available of high international quality. Some high-standard lodges have professional chefs, where trekkers can enjoy a great variety of dishes.

Around most mainstream and popular trekking areas, tea houses and lodge offers a long list of food menu. From continental, oriental like Chinese, Korean, Japanese and European foods along with Tibetan, Indian and Nepalese as well bakeries products. All meals are served hygienically inside a large dining hall with a pot-bellied stove to keep the room warm and cozy. 

Nearly all tea-house and lodge serve almost the same types of food menus from American / Continental or simple breakfast. Includes oats, muesli porridge or corn flakes, toasted bread, eggs of choices, followed with tea, coffee, drinking chocolates. Lunch on the route can be simple of fried/steamed rice, potatoes boiled or fried, noodles, etc…..Dinner is often lavish starting with a choice of soup, main course Nepalese, Indian or continental dish. End the dinner having a desert, either seasonal fresh or canned fruits or bakeries. 

Wi-Fi and Electricity:

Almost every village and tea house/lodge have electrical power from a local hydro project or solar power. Around remote settlements away from the main village, every lodge has a personal generator to run electricity. Some tea-houses with solar energy provide facilities to charge electronic appliances and gadgets on paying the cost for every item. 

In the world of Hi-Tec and modernization, main villages around popular trekking areas do have Network facilities for internet and Wi-Fi. Around remote areas away from main settlements and villages, Wi-Fi is not available only short supply of electricity. Although Wi-Fi is available in major trekking areas, sometimes the network is disturbed due to weather and area of location.

Around deep valleys, gorge, and hills surrounded by high mountains and rocky ridges where networks do not receive clear signals. 

Camping Trekking in Nepal:

The true adventure around Nepal Himalayas is camping trekking, a classic way to enjoy and spend the overnights in tented camps. In the early days till the mid-1990’s camping was the only way to trek around high Himalayan destinations.

Since good lodges known as tea-houses flourished on popular trekking routes, camping has disappeared in mainstream areas. However, camping is still popular for people who are interested in trekking around remote and isolated pockets of Nepal Himalaya. 

Camping Trekking in Nepal is great fun and enjoyable where lodge or tea-house is not available or does not exist. Normally tented camping is necessary if you are trekking around far remote far-flung corners within the absolute wilderness.

Camping trekking, the best way to enjoy an adventure to Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Dolpo, or any other region off the Beaten Path. As these areas are raw and unspoiled, least ventured by main flow of trekkers, where tented camping is the only way. On camping trekking where trekkers need to book with best-renowned companies, where all logistic support will be arranged. Like good strong two men tents, dining tents as per the size of a group, separate kitchen unit.

Includes cook, kitchen staff, along with guide and porters to carry the camping equipment and foods for the whole trek. Camping also includes toilet tents as well shower tents, the two men or single tents includes thin foam mattress.

Foods are served in large dining tents, with the comfort of portable chairs and tables.

The main course of meals includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea/snacks, and dinner. With the luxury of a morning tea is served in your tents, as a wake-up call, followed by warm washing water to get refreshed. After packing your gear for the potters to carry, and then ready for breakfast, the walk begins for few hours.

Where kitchen staff and cool will reach ahead than the group to prepare lunch after lunch reaches campsite. The tents will be ready by then with warm tea coffee and snacks before dinner time. 

All foods are carried for the treks from Kathmandu, fresh vegetables are bought from local farm villages. Every meal served on camping cooked in kerosene or LPG cooking gas, a good act of eco-trekking and responsible tourism.

Camping cooks know the best with hygiene and care needed to keep the clients healthy and happy throughout the trip.

The last thing to remember on camping trekking, there will be no facilities of electricity to charge your electronic gadgets. Best to carry a small portable solar panel during the trek for your personal use.

The post Teahouse and Camping Trekking in Nepal appeared first on High Route Adventure.

Langtang is regarded as the third most visited trekking destination. Every novice trekker can achieve the Langtang Valley trek easily. The highest elevation you will reach is 4984m in the glacial terrain.

Trip Facts

Key highlights of Langtang valley trek

• No need for a flight, you can reach the Langtang region in a drive of 7 to 8 hours
• Experience the ethnic Tamang communities’ culture along with multicultural cuisine and amazing warm spirit scenery
• Explore the several kinds of flora and fauna at a Himalayan national park (Nepal’s first Himalayan park) and Langtang National park (Fourth protected area)
• You can be lucky to spot rare Red Panda and pass through rhododendron trees during your forestry trail
• You can picturesque the mesmerizing view of mountain peaks like Langtang Lirung, Yala Peak, Loenpo Gang, Langtang Ri, Dorje Lakpa, and much more
• You can visit the area which is badly hit by the 2015 earthquake
• Encounter with the oldest Buddhist monastery in Kyangiin Gompa and visit the famous cheese factory over there
• you will reach the highest elevation of the trek- Kyangiin Ri (4,984m/16,351ft) to get precise views of the great Langtang Range

For more details: Top 10 Things to Do in Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Trek Itinerary

TIMS And Entry Permit

The Langtang trekking route falls in a protected area – Langtang National Park, which requires an entry permit that allows the trail. Besides this, trekkers must get a trekkers information Management System (TIMS) card before making the trekking move in the Langtang Valley and most of the trekking region in Nepal.

A detail of permit cost per person at the Langtang Valley is given below:

For foreigners:  NPR 3000 (Approx. USD 30) plus 13% VAT

For SAARC nationals: NPR 1500 (Approx. USD 15) plus 13% VAT

TIMS permit for both: NPR 1000 (Approx. USD 10)

You can obtain your entry permits from the Nepal Tourism Board office at Pradashani Marg, Kathmandu. You can collect at office hours from Sunday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. An alternative option is also available to obtain permits from the second checkpoint on your way to Syabrubeshi.

 you have to carry all the necessary documents such as your passport copy, insurance policy number, detailed itinerary information, and some passport-sized photos. It will be easier for you if you take a package trip from a local agency as they will manage everything needed for the permits.

Note:  you have to show your entry permits at all the respective checkpoints. It is better to keep documents safe. All the permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Besides this, no entry fee is needed for children below 10 years.

You may also like: How to Obtain Permits for the Langtang Valley Trek?

Where is Langtang Valley Located?

Langtang Valley is located just 51 km far from the north of Kathmandu in the north-central Rasuwa District. Langtang Valley extends from east to west including Langtang National Park and is surrounded by Tibet on the north side.  Mesmerizing Langtang Lirung mountain amidst several ranges welcomes you.  you will pass through the lush Langtang River and Bhote Khosi River at the western end of the Langtang valley. Moreover, your trekking trail will be through an ancient trade route following the tributary above Dhunche while you can picturesque the view of the great Himalayas such as Ganesh and Langtang peaks extending towards the Kerung border to Tibet.

Langtang Valley is basically famous for its natural beauty and moderate climate. Several local villages, tea houses, lama hotels, and Kyangjin Gompa are some tourist choices in this Himalayan region.

How to Get in Langtang Valley?

Langtang is 51 km far away from Kathmandu city. Your trekking starting point begins from Syabrubesi, which is 115 km away from Kathmandu. After 7 to 8 hours of drive from Kathmandu, you will reach Syabrubesi – the main trek point. You will travel on the comfortable jeep or any private vehicle provided by the agency. You will pass through several parts of the road such as black pitched, gravel, and muddy in some parts.

You can choose your way of travel in terms of your budget. However, if you choose a local bus then you have to reach the Gongabu Bus Station early morning at 6 Am or 7 Am. You will find this local bus a little bit crowded and typically slowly in comparison to other means. Besides this, you have two more option to travel one is by a sharing vehicle and next one is the tourist bus which costs, USD 10 and USD 8 to 9 respectively.

Additionally, you have the next option to travel from a private vehicle to get a more comfortable and luxurious experience throughout your journey. Generally, this private rental charges a high cost in comparison to other options.

Note: You can reach Syabrubesi – the starting point for the Langtang Valley trek by three different ways via local bus, private rental vehicles, and jeeps according to your budget and comfort.

Langtang Trek – Difficulty and Preparation

Langtang trek will take you to an elevation of 4,500m/14,763ft. However, you will spend a night at the altitude of 3830m/12566 ft situated at the Kyangjin Gompa. some of you may feel altitude sickness at this level. Trekking is considered to be moderately difficult as it can be a cover-up by every type of trekker.

The Langtang Valley trek lasts for 7 days. You will have to trek normally 6 to 7 hours per day to reach your destination point. Furthermore, you need to trek more than normal hours or can be less, someday by considering certain facts which may come your way. The trekking trail passes through several landscapes, scenery, and rugged terrain.

This trek is quite famous for regular trekkers and a good starting trek journey for amateurs who are physically and mentally fit. To avoid trekking difficulties, you need to boost your energy level. Additionally, you can practice swimming, cycling, hiking, yoga, and exercise a couple of weeks before the trek at the Langtang region. As your trek goes through the high altitude, you need to quit your smoking and drinking habit. Such a habit may cause you to lose your stamina and immunity, due to which you will be unable to reach your destination.

More Detail: How Difficult Is the Langtang Valley Trek

Altitude Sickness- How to Avoid Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness is common to happen when you trek in the Himalayan region above 2500 meters. Moreover, trekkers may suffer from altitude sickness at the Langtang Valley trek in comparison to the Annapurna base camp trek because of the maximum elevation of 4,984m/16.351 ft at Tserko Ri. You will feel the slight and sudden change in your move for the first few days because of the elevation. The more you step forward; your body finds it difficult to be compatible with the surroundings at the oxygen level atmospheric pressure drops down and the air becomes thin.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and Altitude sickness are the two most common forms of altitude sickness you may suffer above 3000m/ 9842ft. Mild symptoms like headache, fatigue discomfort, and insomnia might be experienced. Additionally, you might experience severe symptoms such as dizziness, rapid heartbeat, loss of appetite, and vomiting. To avoid such symptoms, you need to follow precautions, be aware, and be safe. Besides this, a good diet, a detailed itinerary including acclimatization day, and a good warm-up exercise are needed to reduce AMS.

Note: Diamox Tablets can be taken, once you get a prescription from the doctor to eliminate risk. If you feel uneasiness and get a symptom as mentioned you need to quickly inform your tour guide, porter, to assist you. Prevention is better than cure.

Best Season to Trek in Langtang Trek

Langtang Valley is situated in the central Himalayan region, which is why the best season to visit Langtang is considered to be during the month of spring season (March to May) and Autumn (mid-September to November). These seasons are best to travel and gather memories in most parts of Nepal.

During the spring season, you will feel the chill and cold weather and the views are amazing. You will find the different flora and fauna, wildflowers, and rhododendrons blooming along the trail. The temperature in the spring season ranges from 10 to 22 degrees Celsius (50 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit) in the daytime. The mesmerizing view of Tserko Ri is seen vividly and it is worth capturing.

Furthermore, the Autumn season is regarded as the best season to trek in the Langtang region. The days are shorter, warm, and sunny. You can get a chance to celebrate Nepal’s two most important festivals, Dashain and Tihar during this season. Experiencing and exploring the culture and tradition of Nepal will get you to another point in your trek journey.

Additionally, some trekkers choose to trek during the month of the Winter season (December to February). The days are cold and night is chilly and long at this time. Even the temperature may drop down to -3 degrees Celsius in January. Extra precautions and heavy clothing are needed to prevent you, from suffering from AMS and frostbite. Besides this, summer and Monsoon season are also included in the list but it is strongly not recommended as the views might be blurry and weather conditions may change frequently.

More Details: When is the Best Time for the Langtang Valley Trek?

Food in The Langtang Trek

Food is an essential part of our life. Whenever it comes to trek, a portion of healthy and nutritious food is needed to boost one’s immunity power. During your trekking trail, food is available as per your taste but we prefer you to have Nepalese cuisine. The meals here are very delicious and warm. Dal Bhat tarkari – (Lentils, rice, vegetables) is a predominantly local dish you must try. Other local delicacies such as yak cheese, Tibetan butter tea, and Tibetan bread with boiled and fried potatoes are famous cuisines you will get to taste once you reach the Langtang region.

Additionally, your tea houses and lodges offer you a menu of American, Italian, French, and Korean dishes. You can choose according to your taste and preference. You will find the dishes a little bit more costly than at Kathmandu.

We suggest you carry water-purifying tablets and some dry fruits, cookies, chewing gum, Choco chips, energy bars, granola bars, and dry fruits on your own. You can buy these items at one of the supermarkets in Kathmandu because the price is double at higher altitudes due to transportation charges.

Accommodation at Langtang Valley

Accommodation is arranged at local tea houses with basic facilities.  Star hotels are arranged during your stay in Kathmandu. The bed will be comfortable, and neat, and a clean bathroom is available.  As your trek begins from Syabrubesi, then your accommodation will be arranged at local tea houses. You will find newly built tea houses.

The room is separated by thin walls and you will be sharing the room with the same gender. You have an option to sleep at the teahouse bed or you can sleep in your sleeping bag if you carry one. The rooms are clean and multiple beds are arranged in shared rooms. However, you can stay in a single room by paying extra charges.

You will find tea houses full of trekkers during the peak season of the trek. Furthermore, agencies will help you to settle down at one of the local tea houses. You need to share common bathrooms. The toilet seats will be squat.  You have to be sure to carry toiletries in your bag pack.  

Internet Connectivity and Electricity at Langtang Trek

Internet and electricity facilities are available during your trek trail. However, you might face an electricity power cut-off sometimes. Some of the tea houses may charge you extra internet charges and electricity charges as you charge your phone and batteries. Wi-Fi is available at the teahouse you stay in.

 You need to get a sim card of NTC and NCELL in Kathmandu to get connected with friends, family, and agencies. Additionally, you can buy mobile data once you install your SIM card on your mobile phone. You need to carry an extra power bank or solar charger if possible. The electricity power and lights tend to be of low voltage as you ascend higher.

Langtang Trek Cost

Langtang trek cost is relatively dependent on the type of trek days, season, and agencies.  Additionally, cost also depends on transportation, food, accommodation, hiring travel agencies, hiring guides porter charges, group, and individual.

Comparatively, the cost of the Langtang trek is relatively less than the trek in the Everest region and Annapurna region as it is very close to Kathmandu city.

Langtang Trek All–Inclusive Package

Langtang trek package price ranges from USD 900 to USD 1500 if you choose the agency’s offer package. The package includes all the basic services needed such as food, accommodation, domestic transport, entry and permits, porter and guide, tea and coffee breaks, and so on at your trial. Cost varies according to agencies. It will be beneficial for you to choose and book a local travel agency than a foreign travel agency. Local travel agencies have more networks, connections, and experience in managing treks peacefully.

Furthermore, the Langtang trek package doesn’t include any personal expenses, hot showers, extra assistance, recharges, souvenirs, bar bills, internet connectivity charges, and many more. All the personal expenses should be borne by you in your way including your International flights as well. You have to carry a certain amount of money separately for your miscellaneous expenses.

Langtang Trek Independently

Langtang trek can be managed in your own way without any help from travel agencies. For this, you can hire a porter and guide personally. Alternatively, you can do a solo trek with your group as well. Independent trek is suggested only if you are an experienced trekker and familiar with Nepalese trekking routes, culture, and language in a very good way. All kinds of documentation, food, accommodation, entry, and permits have to be managed by yourself. This might bring you the hassle and run around you here and there.

Independent trekking’s estimated cost can range from USD 700 to USD 1000, depending on the travel season, the option to hire a porter and personal guide, accommodation, and food, you choose.

Hiring a Guide and Porter for Langtang Trek

You can set up the contact to local guides who will assist you in setting up your trip only. However, you also have an opt-out option to hire guides and porters with/without the help of travel agencies.

You need to cover and manage porters/guides’ food, accommodation, travel expenses, tips, and insurance while traveling.

The general cost of hiring a porter and guide for the Langtang trek is given below:

Guide: You have to pay USD 25 to USD 35/day plus a tip

Porter: you have to pay USD 15 to USD 25/day plus tips

It will be easier for you to trek in the Langtang region with a guide as they know all the local languages and have trekking experience over there. Additionally, the porter will carry your luggage, and bag pack to make your trek easier.

What to Pack for Langtang Trek?

Gears and equipment depend upon the season you choose to trek and travel. During your trek trail to Langtang, you will be taken to an elevation above 4500 m / 14763 ft. The weather becomes cold once you cross the elevation of 2500m. You have to keep the weather in consideration while traveling. The temperature goes down to zero degrees in the winter season, while a cold breeze of air passes in the spring and at the end of Autumn.

There is the most important equipment you need to carry by yourself while trekking in the Langtang region. They are listed below:

• First aid kit
• Pairs of sturdy shoes and trekking poles
• Down jacket, warm clothes
• Hiking shoes and socks
• Toiletries and personal hygiene things such as brushes, feminine products, paste, sanitizers, wet tissues, lotions, moisturizers, etc.
• Cotton t-shirt, pants, and sweatshirt
• Headlamp
• Gadgets
• Battery charger
• Daypack and bag pack
• Glucose and other energy drinks
• Chewing gum, chocolates, bars
• Water purifying tablets
• Sunglasses, hats, EarPods
• Sleeping liners and sleeping bags
• Money pouch, water bottles
• Daily itinerary notes

The above-mentioned are the essentials that you must carry while trekking in the Langtang region. However, you can avoid sleep liners, sleeping bags, and camping gear like gaiters and crampons as it is a moderate trek.

Note: You can leave your other unnecessary items and luggage in your hotel room where you stayed back in Kathmandu. The hotel staff will keep your baggage with due care and safety.

Guided Tour vs Independent Trek

A guided tour is easier for the trekkers for the Langtang Valley trek. You have two options to trek in the Langtang region. It is either by guided trek or by independent trek. Most of the trekker’s choices are guided treks it across rural areas and in high altitudes, which should be done under the supervision of some experienced traveler.

There will be no worry about documentation, permit, entry, food, and accommodation on your route if you choose to do a guided tour. You can hire a guide through your travel agency or by personal contact.

Furthermore, you can go for an independent trek, if you want to go for a solo trek. If you choose so, then you have to bear all kinds of responsibilities such as documentation, entry, permits, food, accommodation, and many other things. You have to be health-conscious on your own. Though it is a cost-saving alternative, you have to face a lot of obstacles if you are unaware of the Nepalese language, culture, routes, and many more.

Travel Insurance for Langtang Trek

Travel insurance is a must if you are going to trek in a high-risk area and if you choose to trek/travel outside your home country. Moreover, the trek is done at a high elevation of 4500m/14763 ft, which may cause Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Langtang lies in the high Himalayan region and with a limited facility for basic needs. So, if you fall sick/ injured seriously, you might be rescued through the helicopter which tends to be a high cost.

Travel insurance is done to get compensation if any kind of obstacle happens in your way during the trek. Before having any insurance, you need to be very careful and should read all the terms and conditions of the related insurance company. You must let your insurance company about your day-to-day itinerary, region of travel, and so on. Once your trekking finishes, you can cancel the insurance policy.

Langtang After Earthquake

Langtang Valley is one of the prone areas which was badly affected by the 2015 earthquake in Nepal. Many locals and foreigners lost their lives during that time. Later on, the Langtang region villages were completely scattered and ruined due to a sudden landside which fell off at the south face of the Langtang Lirung. The medical supply and rescue team didn’t reach there for so many days due to blockage.

You will be across through many gompas, mani walls, few surviving houses on your route. After the huge devastating incident, now the Langtang village is drastically changing. Houses are rebuilt. Basic facilities have been upgraded. You can find so many memories connected to ancient history and often can get information through locals about how the Langtang was before the earthquake. You can find bakeries, newly built tea houses, coffee shops, and properly managed trekking trails. The mesmerizing view of Langtang revives you internally, once you reach your destination.

Conclusion

Langtang trek is a memorable and rewarding trek that is just a few kilometers away from Kathmandu. You can see the people full of confidence and happy faces even after they suffer from the huge loss from the earthquake. You will find inspiration in every local of the Langtang region. You can stay at the newly built tea house and enjoy the panoramic views from there. Additionally, you can extend your trek. Many trekkers choose to trek to Gosaikunda Helambu and Tamang Heritage Trek once they get inside Langtang Valley.

High Route adventure gives you maximum satisfaction and provides you with a detailed itinerary for your easiness. We are always ready to make your trip memorable and fruitful.

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Annapurna region is one of the most popular adventure destinations, probably in the whole Himalaya range, due to its varied bio-diversity from climate, vegetation, landscapes, and most important the wide variation of local culture in close harmony with beautiful snow-capped mountain scenery.

Why Annapurna Region a popular adventure destination, as Annapurna Himalaya range offers a great opportunity for visitors, where one can choose varied adventures from a hike of a day or more and trekking for almost three weeks, as well as peak climbing and major mountaineering expedition.

Annapurna Himalaya and its unique landscapes, varied traditional customs and cultures, deep gorges and ravines, beautiful cool serene forest, glacial lakes, and the warm hospitality of villagers, males Annapurna Himalaya one of the most sought adventure destination in all Himalayas. As Annapurna Himalaya range provides many highlights like the rhododendron forest known as the world’s largest natural garden, the world’s deepest gorge of Kaligandaki River, and sudden changes in climate and temperatures. Annapurna Himalaya is beyond description, where ever you travel you won’t be devoid of glorious views of the surrounding scenery, rolling green hills, valleys, and the high snow-capped mountain range, that is why Annapurna Himalaya draws more trekkers and visitors than any other Himalaya countries, no wonder some of its area listed as world top ten adventure destination. 

Annapurna with a Great Massive Range of Peaks

Annapurna a massive mountain range with more than eight high peaks with world number ten Annapurna-1 at 8,091 meters high, includes other groups of satellite peaks of above 7, 000 m and below with famous majestic Machhapuchare Himal, the unclimbed peaks popularly known as the Fish-Tail, due to its twin summits.

Annapurna Himalaya range dominates the Mid-West skyline and the whole surrounding valley of Pokhara and the outskirts, where travelers can catch wonderful views of Annapurna Himalaya, just relaxing at your hotel in Pokhara by its serene Lake Phewa and Begnas.
Annapurna Himalaya extends close to Lamjung Himal and 8^th world’s highest Manaslu Himalaya range in the east, with the world’s 7th Mt. Dhaulagiri towards the west direction.

History of Annapurna Himalaya

The name itself originates from ancient Sanskrit meaning Anna as food/crops and Purna as Enough, a mountain with great meaning crops/food enough.

Most travelers might not be aware that Mt. Annapurna was the first 8, 000-meter peak ever climbed in the history of mountaineering, which was conquered way back in 1950 by a French Expedition three years ahead than Mt. Everest was summited by Tenzing and Hillary.

Annapurna Himalaya is the land of the brave Gorkha, world-renowned soldiers mostly in British and Indian infantry, and the area around mid and high hills inhabited by Gurung and Magar people one of the largest mountain ethnic tribes.

Annapurna Himalaya Region with a Wide Range of Exotic Destinations

Annapurna Himalaya region is a perfect choice for adventure from short, moderate to long walks facing ever-present views of white snow-capped peaks, as well as enjoying the local cultures of mountain and hill people. Annapurna Himalaya region, which is popular as the country offers leisure, moderate, and adventurous to challenging trekking, within most popular trails to off the beaten hidden path on the far-flung corners of high Annapurna Himalayas.

Some of the trekking areas of Annapurna Himalaya are listed as the world’s top ten adventure destinations by leading travel magazines and guide books, such as the Annapurna Circuit trek or the Around Annapurna trekking. Where one can walk for more than two weeks or less, enjoying different beautiful aspects of this magnificent country. Walking from low sub-tropical within paddy fields and terraces to cooler alpine hills and then ending at the arctic freezing cold zone of remorseless fields of ice, moraine, and glaciers. Annapurna Circuit is an amazing trek where trekkers can get different tastes of cultures nearly on everyday walks, of Buddhism in the higher regions and Hindu around lower areas. An interesting and exciting walk surrounded by glorious views of great scenic landscapes, where high snow peaks follow you till the end of the journey. The trek involves one of the highest passes called Thorang-La at the height of 5,416 m offers breathtaking views from the top of the pass, and then downhill towards Kaligandaki River valley around lower Mustang areas, where you can enjoy staying in wonderful villages as this region also known as Apple Pie Trail. The Kaligandaki region is famous for its apple orchard and its products, located on the old Trans Himalaya Salt and Caravan Route to Tibet, which extends towards Upper Mustang.

This scenic journey takes you through the world’s deepest gorge Kaligandaki River, as it is sandwiched between the towering peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna forming one of the deepest river gorges on this planet. Another great trek around Annapurna is an adventure to Tilicho Lake, a beautiful area well hidden from the main busy trail of Annapurna Circuit, a splendid and magnificent area of Tilicho with a turquoise colored Lake considered holy in both Hindu and Buddhism religions.

Annapurna Himalaya Region provides an unlimited choice of adventure where one can take a short of few days trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill, which offers striking sunrise views over 360° wide-angle panorama of Himalayan peaks from Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiri with massive Annapurna range of peaks, includes Mt. Manaslu as far towards Ganesh Himal in the far eastern horizon.

Southern Annapurna Himalaya Covered in the Beautiful Forest

Annapurna Himalaya is not only famous for its panoramic views, a great country where you will be walking into beautiful rhododendron, magnolia, oaks, pines, and fir tree forests. The area around Ghorepani and Poon Hill is also regarded as the world’s natural rhododendron garden. The southern side of Annapurna Himalaya the area covered in dense beautiful woods, which makes the walk more interesting, whereas the northern side behind Annapurna is massive is arid with dry landscapes but beautiful. Annapurna Himalaya on the southern or northern sides offers trekkers wide options, like visiting Annapurna Base Camp and the scenic Sanctuary where the walk takes you to the heart of massive Annapurna Himalaya at base camp.

The only 8,000 m mountain base camp in the whole Himalayas provides you facilities of a nice and cozy lodge to stay overnights with rooms facing excellent views of high snow-capped peaks.  

A short and marvelous adventure of a week to Annapurna base camp and within its awesome sanctuary surrounded by an array of high towering peaks, a grand trek from low warm farm areas to Himalayan mid-hills and then at high valley within ice and glaciers at base camp. Truly, an amazing place in and around Annapurna Himalaya, where one can find so many changes in a short duration of time. Where you can find it only within Annapurna Himalaya, located in Nepal Mid-West.

Annapurna Himalaya region besides the main popular trails, one can choose the off-beaten tracks, which few groups of trekkers seldom visits like Khopra Ridge and Vara Lake, as well the Mardi Himal area which is slowly drawing many trekkers every season of the year.

Annapurna Himalaya Villages Enriched with Immense Culture and Custom

Annapurna Himalaya is not only famous for its marvelous adventure destinations trekkers can soak and interact with local friendly villagers, where you will be greeted with a warm traditional welcome and entertained visitors with a joyful evening with local cultural programs, which includes folk dance and songs.

Annapurna region was made famous by British Royal after visiting the low foothills of Annapurna, places as a special area just outskirts of Pokhara the area east of Pokhara coined as Royal Trek, since Prince Charles did a short trek in the midst of 1980. Due to its beautiful landscapes of forest, hills, and high snow mountains, and local immense culture, Annapurna Himalaya’s natural surroundings of exotic flora and fauna is protected by ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) since 1990.

Annapurna Himalaya Entry Permits, for Trekker’s Safety and Trail Maintenance

All trekkers need to obtain permission by paying an entrance ticket to visit and around the wonderful country of Annapurna Himalaya. Besides the Conservation entry fee, travelers need to carry TIMS (Trekking Information Management System), authorized by TAAN (Trekking Agent Association of Nepal).

One of the few adventure areas in Nepal Himalaya, with proper and well-maintained trekking trails, strong suspension bridges to cross over rivers, information posts in most areas, and proper check-post for the safety of travelers around Annapurna Himalaya.  

The Right Season to Travel Annapurna Region

Most of the day in the Best season is fine with crystal clear blue sky, usually from morning till late afternoon, where travelers can enjoy the Himalayan bright sun along with grand views of Annapurna Himalaya peaks. Choosing the right time for your holidays around the Annapurna Himalaya region will make your adventure more worthwhile, as the Annapurna Himalaya area where trekkers can trek nearly all seasons of the year-round, except for the monsoon wet times of mid-June to mid-September months. Annapurna Himalaya region is many popular areas, due to its easy accessibility to start and end the trek, normally most adventures around southern Annapurna begin and completes at a beautiful city in Pokhara, located on the very lap of massive Annapurna Himalaya. Where trekkers can take a short drive and then commence the trek to various chosen destinations, from a day walk to a week or more. Some treks start from Lamjung districts like high Manang valley on route Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, and Nar-Phu.

Beautiful Pokhara where Most Annapurna Trek Begins and Ends

Where ever your travel around the Annapurna region it finally ends at Pokhara, located on a verdant valley surrounded by tiers of green rolling hills with constant views of Annapurna Himalaya, and the famous Machhapuchare Himal the Fish-Tail peak that reflects on its calm lakes. The other reason why the Annapurna Himalaya region is a popular destination is that travelers can get stays overnights in a nice lodge all along the journey. Around Annapurna on both sides North and South, trekkers can have the options of simple to standard or luxury lodges and resorts as per your budget and comfort. Annapurna Himalaya offers a wide range of trekking destinations and as well for trekking peak climbing and mountaineering.

The most popular short and longer treks around Annapurna Himalaya are as follows “Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Base Camp, short circuit south of Annapurna around Dhampus, Landruk, and Ghandruk villages”. 

Longer treks are “Annapurna Circuit trek, Tilicho Lake, and Nar-Phu” located North of Annapurna Himalaya, similarly one can trek to Khopra Ridge and Vara Lake as well Mardi Himal trek or a short Royal trek to Syaglung around southeast mid-hills of Annapurna Himalaya.

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