Trekking With Kids or Older Adults in Nepal

Nepal, a beautiful and enchanting nation nestled amidst the pristine Himalayas, is a world-renowned destination when it comes to trekking and mountaineering adventures. The exploration in the Himalayas may seem like fit for just season travelers. However, some of those exciting journeys can be rewarding for families with children and elderly trekkers as well. For trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal, you can explore a wide range of thrilling adventure activities that offer immersive experiences.

Nepal’s stunning landscape, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual atmosphere will provide the opportunity to enjoy a perfect family-friendly journey. Thanks to the diversity of trekking trails for different fitness levels, you will have the chance to explore the Himalayas at your own comfortable pace. This provides an opportunity for both children and elderly trekkers to soak in the tranquility of nature and culture and create unforgettable memories amidst some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery.

Why Consider Trekking with Kids or Older Adults?

• It will be a memorable experience sharing a unique outdoor adventure experience in a culturally and naturally rich environment
• Cognitive and emotional development for the children through real-world expereicnces
• Instills a sense of adventure and promotes a healthy and active lifestyle for both kids and older adults
• An opportunity to strengthen the bond with wisdom and stories while moving along with the scenic routes
• A slow-paced experience to enjoy natural and cultural interaction
• Re-connecting with nature and understanding its significance
• Education activities for children, learning about local culture, history, wildlife and birdlife
• A refreshing break from the regular routine to widen the perspective of life
• Sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem

Choosing the Right Trek for Kids and Older Adults

Key Factors to Consider

Altitude

One of the major factors that you have to consider while trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal is the overall altitude gain in the trip. The higher the nature of the exploration, the more toll in can take on the children or older adults.

There isn’t only a risk of altitude sickness when you navigate your way across the high altitude points of the mountain region. Physical activities are also more draining in the region with low oxygen saturation levels.

So, it can affect the overall experience you are looking forward to for your family trip. That’s why it is important to choose the Himalayan endeavors that don’t elevate to the significant points.

Note: If this is a first experience, you should avoid treks with Himalayan passes and routes that elevate to more than 5,000 meters.

Trekking Duration and Difficulty

Long duration of exploration in the isolated part of the Himalayas can even test the physical and mental prowess of an adult in prime age. So, it certainly can affect the children and senior trekkers as well.

It will be best to stick with a short route exploration, which adds a unique Himalayan experience but doesn’t stretch to the farthest corner of the region as well. Also, for the first-time experience, it is wise to go for the relatively easy graded trips.

Some moderate-level explorations are also suitable for families with diverse age group members. But make sure to check out the overall trekking route and difficulty segments along the route to ensure a seamless journey.

Trail Conditions

The Himalayan region is known for its rugged and rough mountain routes. Besides the steep sections, some routes also take you across the glacial moraines and high Himalayan passes. Navigating through these difficult segments can be demanding for inexperienced children or older trekkers.

That’s why it is necessary to understand the trekking routes before taking on any kind of journey. You need to make sure that the trails are not challenging for the kids and senior trekkers.

Stick with the comfortable routes that are accessible by roads as well at some points. This will be really helpful when you are looking for an alternative spontaneously during the trip.

Walking Pace and Acclimatization

Trekking packages do have pre-determined acclimatization destinations along the route and overall walking period during each day of the trek. Although this aspect may not be that major for a fit person, it tests the physical strength and stamina of children or older adult trekkers.

Thus, you need to carefully monitor the overall walking pace throughout the trip, break stops along the route and the number of rest days. You need to make sure that the itinerary plans of the Himalayan exploration will be doable for all the members of your group.

Availability of Amenities (Lodges, Medical Care)

The Himalayan region of Nepal is one of the most isolated parts of the country. Due to a lack of infrastructure and resources, most of the regions are not adept in providing necessary services/amenities.

Disconnecting from the modern lifestyle and re-connecting with nature has a nice ring to it. However, while trekking with children or older adults, you need to be considerate of their comfort and needs as well.

Diving deep into the core of the mountain region for a long period and managing with whatever is available may not sit well with them. So, for a remarkable journey with your family, you should definitely consider one of the mainstream regions that isn’t behind when it comes to the availability of amenities.

Trek Recommendation for Kids or Older Adults

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (Easy, Scenic, Short Duration)

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most exciting trekking prospects in the Annapurna region that is ideal for a family adventure. This destination is popular among the Nepal communities as a quick rejuvenating experience.

Located near the bustling travel destination of the country, Pokhara, this journey is the ultimate definition of comfort with Himalayan adventure. This trek will take you across the popular Gurung, Magar and Thakali settlements of Dhampus, Landruk, Ghandruk, Pothana and Ghorepani.

After exploring the culturally enthralling trails, you will then hike to the popular viewpoint in the lower Annapurna region, Poon Hill (3,210m). Views of Annapurna, Macchapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli and others are crystal clear from this vantage point.

Langtang Valley Trek (Moderate, Cultural Exposure)

Langtang Valley, after the Annapurna Region and Everest Region, is the third-most beloved trekking destination in the country. Thus, the Langtang Valley Trek is also an iconic prospect if you don’t want to stray off far from the perks of the mainstream route.

This trekking region also happens to be the closest trekking destination from Kathmandu, just at a driving distance of 120 km (74 miles) from the capital. While exploring this sacred valley across the beautiful Tamang settlements, you will also cross the second-largest national park in the country, Langtang National Park (1,710 sq km.).

There is also an optional hike option to Tsergo Ri (5,033m) and Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) to admire the beauty of the spiritual valley, surrounding peaks and glaciers. But, as the hike can be challenging for children and older trekkers, you can sit this out to rest and soak in the atmosphere of the Kyanjin Gompa.

Pikey Peak Trek

If you are a trekking enthusiast, you might have given exploring the world-renowned Everest Base Camp Trek a try. However, due to the significant altitude points and trekking difficulty, it may not be convenient for a trekking group with diverse-aged members.

But Pikey Peak Trek, which is a newly introduced trekking route in the lower Everest region, will offer you the chance to admire the serene beauty of this mainstream region. Pikey Peak, which is at an elevation of 4,065 meters (13,336 feet), is the most popular viewpoint in the lower Everest region.

In fact, this trekking peak was also Sir Edmund Hillary’s favorite spot to enjoy the majestic beauty of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks like Makalu, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Shishapangma, Manaslu and many more.

Thus, this will be an easy-grade exploration of the mainstream Everest region where you can admire the amazing Sherpa culture traditions, vibrant Buddhist trails, charms of Sagarmatha National Park and epic mountain views without pushing to major high elevation points.

Jomsom Muktinath Trek

Annapurna region, the second major trekking destination of Nepal, is considered a jewel of the trekking industry in the country. The diversity of landscape, culture, and natural beauty makes this region one of the most visited sites by travelers from all over the world.

Jomsom Muktinath Trek is one of such remarkable trekking route in the region that introduces you to the unique arid landscape of the Himalayas, fasting culture-traditions, incredible high altitude natural beauty and close to the ‘Forbidden Kingdom of the Himalayas’, which was opened up for tourism only in 1992.

You will also explore one of the most significant religious sites in the country, Muktinath Temple (3,800m). This ancient temple is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. There are 108 stone water sprouts in this temple and it is believed taking a bath here will free one from their sins and bring salvation.

Thus, this easy-grade trek will be a wonderful opportunity to explore the sacred sites, beautiful high-altitude settlements and immerse in the Himalayan ambiance at the same time. Furthermore, this spiritual will conclude the trek with a hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), which is an additional remarkable side detour added by Exciting Nepal to make the journey even more exciting.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek (Slightly Demanding, Suitable for Older Kids or Fit Seniors)

We have discussed some of the most exciting prospects with relatively easy difficulty grading for trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal. However, if you are looking for a little bit of a challenge, then Annapurna Base Camp Trek is another exciting prospect.

This beautiful journey takes you to the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna (8,091m). ABC is the classical trekking adventure in the Annapurna region. It is known for its charming natural beauty, cultural trails and epic vistas of the central Himalayan peaks.

Due to the higher elevation points and over trekking distance, this journey can be slightly demanding. You will also need to follow glacier moraines as you cross Macchapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m) to reach your destination. Thus, although the overall journey is more demanding than easy-scale explorations, the experience is certainly worth it.

Helicopter Tours

Beyond the thrilling prospects for trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal, you can also go for the short helicopter tour in Nepal. These are the most ideal ways to experience the Himalayan beauty without having to deal with the trekking part.

Thus, even if you don’t have sufficient time on hand for the Himalayan treks, these short and exciting tours to the most popular trekking destination will help you explore the majestic beauty of the Himalayan region.

Exciting Nepal also manages many short tours and hiking adventures that you can add to your travel if you want to extend your stay. We also offer a complete customization option where you have full control over your travel plans from exploration route, walking pace, rest days, quality of food and accommodation, transport mode, etc.

So, with us, you will be able to enjoy the most iconic exploration activities that perfectly fit your adventure palate.

Health and Safety Considerations

Acclimatization Tips: Gradual Ascents, Rest Days

Acclimatization is a process that is very crucial when it comes to high-altitude explorations. Quick-paced walks without enough rest don’t only trigger the risks of altitude sickness, but too much exhaustion can cause other health issues as well.

Thus, during the Himalayan trip with your family, you will need to follow paced gradual ascents. Even when you are not exploring trekking routes with major altitudes, following slow ascend will be a comfortable experience and will minimize the risk of altitude sickness, no matter how minor.

Similarly, taking enough rest days along the way will make the overall trip feel comfortable and enjoyable. It takes time to replenish the lost energy, even more so for older adults and children. Thus, taking sufficient rest breaks along the route will make it easy for them to truly relish the experience.

Importance of Hydration, Balanced Nutrition, and Breaks

As it is a vacation, you might feel like eating whatever you want. However, eating a healthy, balanced diet is very important when you have to walk for multiple hours. Similarly, a healthy, balanced diet will keep the immune system intact. Thus, you won’t have to worry about health issues.

The teahouse trekking experience in Nepal is popular for its incredible cultural delights. So, you will have the option to choose from a wide variety of healthy dishes. Similarly, it is also important to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

During this outdoor adventure, you will also lose a major portion of your body’s water level. That is why it is important to drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water during the trek. Also, make sure to set enough rest breaks along the walking route.

These short rejuvenating breaks will give your body a chance to take short breathers and you will also have the time to admire the natural and cultural beauty of the surrounding.

How to Deal With Altitude Sickness in Children and Seniors?

It is said that prevention is better than cure. So, it is important to keep an eye out for the symptoms of altitude sickness. No matter how minor they seem, don’t overlook the symptoms like:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia
• Fatigue and loss of energy
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Blocked ears
• Rapid heartbeat

Although there aren’t major risks of altitude sickness on the above-mentioned low-elevation adventure, you will still need to be watchful about the symptoms. Be more careful if you are planning to trek on a high-altitude route with significant elevation points.

There are also several ways to deal with Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), the only major threat on the Himalayan trekking routes. The most efficient countering way is to meet hydration quota, eat a balanced diet and follow a gradual ascend.

It is also necessary to keep yourself warm at the higher altitudes. There are also altitude sickness medications, such as Diamox, which can help to reduce the risk of altitude sickness during trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal.

If the symptoms persist, then the safest way is to descend down to lower altitudes. Then, you can move along with the higher routes after you adapt well to new climatic zones. Similarly, there is also an option to use supplementary oxygen; however, it is not normally used for trekking routes.

Bringing the Right Gear

During your trek in the Himalayan, you will follow the route across multiple climatic zones. To deal with different altitudes, you will need to pack the right layers for yourself, your children and suggest them to the older adults accordingly.

Besides the right clothes and footwear for different, it is also important to pack the right helpful trekking gear, such as trekking poles, sleeping bag, daypack or backpack, sunglass, waterbottle, flashlight, etc.

Similarly, for a long trip in the Himalayan region, you will also need personal hygiene and sanitization products to take care of your health. Also, you shouldn’t forget to bring snacks, chocolate bars and energy drinks to enjoy during the short breaks along the trail.

Planning the Trek

Best Seasons for Family Trekking (Spring and Autumn)

For the best value experience while trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal, you should consider one of the high seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are two such favorable periods that offer the ultimate experience.

During these periods, the climatic factors are stable and you can expect favorable weather. Choosing one of these seasons will also mean that the children and senior trekkers don’t have to deal with an extra set of challenges that come along with the weather.

Also, you want to make the experience as memorable as possible. So, the natural charms of both the peak period of nature and the fall season will be a remarkable time to admire the fascinating beauty of the Himalayas.

Both of these periods are also the most perfect time to explore the exotic species of flora and fauna in the Langtang National Park. Moreover, the cultural experience is top-tier during these periods as most of the major festivals in Nepal are celebrated during these periods.

Note: Off-trekking periods such as winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August) also have unique charms about them. But due to the extra set of difficulties during these periods, a family trek is not recommended even for the low altitude regions.

Hiring Guides and Porters for Assistance With Kids and Elderly Trekkers

When you are trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal, you cannot expect to travel with a standard trekking package. In a general trekking package in Nepal, just a single porter is provided for two trekkers.

The porters help with about 15 kg (33 lbs) of luggage for each trekker. For the rest of the luggage, the trekkers have to carry it on their own. Although children may not have heavyweight luggage, it can be hard for older adults to carry even a minimum weight while traversing the difficult mountain route.

Thus, it is important to set the right number of porters to travel light and make the journey comfortable. As for the guide, if you are traveling in a large group, you can hire an assistance guide to make your Himalayan exploration more informative and comfortable.

Pre-Trek Training

Regardless of the low-elevation points of the trekking journey you have chosen, it is important to physically prepare for the trip. Due to the low elevation points of the trip, you might feel like you won’t have to train that much for your Himalayan journey.

However, you need to make a note of the fact that the mountain routes are tough and demanding. So, it is important to train for the trip to make sure you will be able to move along the mountain roads without any issues.

For children or older adults, getting used to long hours of walking is important. So you can take them out on a walk in the park occasionally to prepare for the trip. Similarly, practice hikes are very effective to prepare for the mountain journey.

If you are curious about which aspects you should focus your training on, emphasizing the strength, endurance and cardiovascular exercises will bear the most fruitful result. As you will not take major altitude points and strenuous routes for your trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal, you don’t need to create an extensive set of training programs.

Just simple preparation and getting used to walking while improving overall stamina will be really helpful to enjoy the family trip with dynamic age-group members.

Insurance

Getting travel insurance is mandatory for any high-altitude adventures in Nepal. As you will be exploring the Himalayan route with kids or older adults, getting good insurance coverage will be quite handy.

The travel insurance package covers medical care, emergency evacuation, loss or damage of goods, delays, etc, depending on the option you have chosen. So, traveling with insurance will provide a sense of security and you won’t have to bear the financial burdens alone in case of unforeseen circumstances.

For trekking with kids or older adults in Nepal you can get two types of permits, either upto 3,000 meters or 6,000 meters, depending on the route you are planning to take. As for the cost of the insurance package, it will depend on overall coverage plans, the age of trekkers, and the overall duration of the trip.

Permits and Regulations

It is a very crucial step to understand the permits and regulations of the region you are visiting during your trek. Most of the treks in the Himalayas will take you across the protected and restricted areas in the region.

There are generally four types of permits that are necessary for high-altitude treks in Nepal:

• Conservation Area Permit
• National Park Permit
• Restricted Area Permit
• Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Depending on the region of your preference, the permit requirement for the trail may vary. So, you need to understand what permits are required for the trip and apply for them at designated destinations. Similarly, you also need to adhere to the rules and regulations set by the authorities of the region to avoid any kind of legal hassles.

Note: For the best experience and seamless journey, you should consider trekking with a reputable agency. That way, they will handle everything about your trip and you can just focus on enjoying the journey and making memories.