When planning a trek, people usually think of Everest, Annapurna, and the Langtang region. But many people don’t know that the Dhaulagiri region is also quite a popular trekking destination.

Dhaulagiri Trekking is famous among trekkers for its exotic and challenging routes. Every year people plan Dhaulagiri Circuit trek for an exciting journey in the Himalayas.

In this 21 days Dhaulagiri trekking itinerary, you will reach the Dhaulagiri base camp and cross two high passes. Generally, you encircle the Dhaulagiri massif viewing scenic sights throughout the trek.

Dhaulagiri is the world’s seventh Highest Mountain at an elevation of 8167 m above sea level. It lies on the west-central side of Nepal and spreads from the Kaligandaki river to Bheri.

Mount Dhaulagiri lies on the east side of Mount Annapurna which is another famous mountain. These mountains lie about 34 km away from each other.

Apart from the mountain climb, it is also popular for its circuit trek. Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is one of the longest treks of Nepal that includes both camping and lodging. It leads you through isolated villages, cultivated lands, rich vegetation, and many more.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek routes are a bit harsh and challenging. But the great view of Mountains and unique vegetation will make up for them. You will be visiting the remote areas of Nepal in this trek.

On this trek, you get to see various snow-capped mountain peaks. Some are Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri II, and many more.

Also, the forest paths filled with different species of flora and fauna. Such as Rhododendron, Pines, Oaks, Ferns, and many more.

Throughout the trek, the dramatic view of landscapes, glaciers, and mountains will keep you accompanied. This is an action pack trek that takes you around the Dhaulagiri massif reaching altitudes above 4000 m.

So, take a long break off your hectic schedule and join us in our 21 days Dhaulagiri trekking. We promise you will leave with great memories from this trek.

Highlights of Dhaulagiri Trekking

• Reach the base camp of the world’s seventh-highest mountain
• Cross to high passes i.e French pass and Dhampus pass
• The mesmerizing view of Mountain peaks
• Paranomic view of Dhaulagiri massif
• Trek through beautiful forest paths
• Visit the hidden valley
• Explore the remote areas

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Route

Your journey begins the moment you land at the airport of Kathmandu. But your trekking doesn’t start till the third day of Dhaulagiri Trekking itinerary. After your arrival, you spend the next day preparing and roaming the city.

Then on the third day, you head out of the beautiful city of Kathmandu and head towards Baglung via Prithvi Highway by bus. Then from Baglung, your trekking journey begins as you head towards Beni. You stay there for the night.

The following day you Head towards Babichor walking through terraced fields along the Myagdi valley. Then your next destination is Dharapani from there. Viewing scenic views you reach your destination and stay there for tonight.

After a wonderful night, you move towards Muri making a gradual climb through forest paths. After that, you head towards Boghara that gives a great view of various mountain peaks.

From Boghara you trek till Dobang and head towards Camp from there. The next day’s destination is Italian Camp where you will acclimatize before heading ahead in the trails.

After the rest day, you head towards Camp. Then from Camp, your next stop is the highlight of this trek Dhaulagiri Base Camp. You will have your second acclimatization here.

Heading out you will head towards Hidden valley crossing the French Pass. You will stay there for the night. Then moving ahead your next stop is Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass.

The following day you head towards Tukuche, stay there and move further to Ghasa. From Ghasa you trek till Tatopani known as a natural hot spring. Refreshing you head towards Beni and drive back to Pokhara via Baglung.

Best time to visit Dhaulagiri trekking

Trekking in Nepal is suitable at any time of the year. But the best time depends on the region you are planning your trek. Nepal goes through four seasons Spring, Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter.

As for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, trekkers prefer Spring and Autumn as the best time to visit Dhaulagiri trekking. But you can trek during the winter and monsoon season too. But it can be challenging and thrilling during these seasons.

Spring Season

The Spring season falls during the months of March, April, and May. These months are the beginning of new vegetation all around the region. You will see buds of flowers in the forest path. As winter has just finished, the valley slowly gets its greenery back during this season.

The weather and temperature are also nice at this time. Skies are clear giving the astounding view of Mountain peak. Also, the days are hot making the walk easier. While the nights are neither hot nor cold. But early mornings can be mild cold.

Spring season is the best time to visit Dhaulagiri trekking if you are nature lovers. Mother nature shows its beauty during these months.

Monsoon Season

Monsoon season falls during the months of June, July, and August. These months are the least preferred time of the year. This is the season of continuous rainfall in the lower region. As for the higher region, there are low chances of rainfall.

Due to continuous rainfall, there are high chances of flood and landslide being an obstacle. As a result, your trek might get delayed or canceled. Also, the paths are slippery and muddy making your walk thrilling.

If you love trekking, viewing the beauty of nature. Then it can be a disappointment as rain clouds tend to block the view of snowy peaks. However, this season is the best time to visit Dhaulagiri trekking for botanists and researchers.

While traveling during this time of the year be careful. And don’t forget to bring warm clothes.

Autumn Season

The Autumn season falls during the months of September, October, and November. This is the peak season for the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek. This is the most crowded season of the year. Trekkers from all around the world come to trek on these routes.

The weather and temperature are favorable during these months. The crystal clear skies give out the best view of the mountains. And the warm and sunny days make the walk easier. But it can be a bit chilly during the early morning and night.

Winter Season

The Winter season falls during the months of December, January, and February. These months are the coldest season of the year. This is the off-season time for trekking in the Dhaulagiri circuit.

The skies are clear but due to heavy snowfall, some routes can be blocked. Also, the higher you climb the more the temperature drops. During this season, the temperature drops below the freezing point.

However, the days are warm while the night and early mornings are windy and cold. If you are planning your trek during this season be well prepared.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Difficulties

While trekking at high altitude facing difficulties is common. Nothing is predictable while traveling in the high Himalayas. Thus, few Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek difficulties that you can face are given below:

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a common difficulty faced in Dhaulagiri Trekking. Suffering from Acute Mountain sickness is normal when traveling at an altitude above 4000 m. This sickness usually occurs when you cross an elevation above 3500 m.

If you suffer from altitude sickness some common symptoms you might see are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Difficulty in breathing
• Sleeping difficulty
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Difficulty in walking straight paths and many more

If you suffer any of these symptoms then immediately inform someone. It is best to inform your guide as they will know better about it. After informing them, follow the instructions they give you. As this can be risky if not treated at the proper time.

Route Difficulty

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Route is graded as moderate to difficult level trek. The routes are quite harsh compared to other trekking destinations near this region. You will be walking through remote areas and inhabited villages.

But this trek is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The routes can be more challenging and thrilling for new trekkers. As for experienced trekkers, the trails can be less harsh.

On this trek, you will be making many steep uphill climbs and downhill walks. And walking about 6 to 7 hours a day on off-beaten paths can be difficult for beginners.

Weather Conditions

Weather always plays a vital role when going on treks. If the weather is nice you can enjoy your trek to the fullest. However, the weather higher up can never be predicted. The climate in the mountain goes through several changes in a day.

It can be sunny a moment and windy in the next. Noone can be too sure about the weather. Moreover, It is more unpredictable during the season of Monsoon and Winter.

Due to heavy rain and snowfall, there are high chances of road blockage. Also, bad weather conditions can result in delays or cancelation. So you need to be well prepared while trekking in these seasons.

Physical Condition

To complete your trek you need to be mentally and physically fit. You will be walking in steep and off-beaten paths for hours. So, stamina is a must when it comes to trekking in the Himalayas.

Before your trek, it is better to consult your doctor or do a full medical check-up. As many people don’t know about their underlying disease. And can find it out after their trekking journey.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Free and arrangement day.

Day 03:Kathmandu - Pokhara - Baglung by bus (9h) - Beni (817m).

Day 04:Beni - Babichor (950m) in 5h.

Day 05:Babichor - Dharapani (1500m) in 6h.

Day 06:Dharapani - Muri (1840m) in 6h.

Day 07:Muri - Boghara (2080m) in 7h.

Day 08:Boghara - Dobang (2880m) in 6h.

Day 09:Dobang - Camp at 3200m in 5h.

Day 10:Camp at 3200m - Italians Camp (3700m) in 3h30.

Day 11:Italians Camp. Acclamatization and rest day.

Day 12:Italians Camp -Camp at 4300m in 5h.

Day 13:Camp at 4300m - Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4750m) in 4h30.

Day 14:Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Acclamatization and rest day.

Day 15:Dhaulagiri Base Camp - French Pass (5400m) - Camp in the " Hidden Valley " (5050m)

Day 16:Camp in the " Hidden Valley " - Thapa Pass (5230m) - Yak Kharka (4400m) in 6h.

Day 17:Yak Kharka - Tukuche (2591m) in 5h.

Day 18:Tukuche - Ghasa (2012m) in 4h30.

Day 19:Ghasa - Tatopani (1189m) in 4h30.

Day 20:Tatopani - Beni (817m).

Day 21:Beni - Baglung in 3h, then bus to Pokhara.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival At Kathmandu

Maximum Altitude: 1400 m above Sea Level

Today is the first day of your Dhaulagiri Trekking. As your flight lands in the Tribhuvan International Airport, you arrive Kathmandu. This is the only international airport in Nepal which is located inside the capital city.

After your arrival, you will find the respective representative waiting for you outside the airport. Then they will pick you up from there and drop you off at your hotel.

Helping you check-in your room they will leave for the day. The rest of the time is free so you can roam around the area and see the local lifestyle. Or you must be tired after a long flight so you can just call it a day.

Day 2: Free day and Preparation

Today you wake up early, get ready, and wait for your guide to pick you up. This day you will be touring around the Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu is quite rich in arts and cultures.

After picking you up, the main places you visit are the UNESCO Heritage sites. Kathmandu offers many heritage sites. Such as Pashupatinath temple, a holy temple for Hindu religion. Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath a holy ground for Buddhist followers. Basantapur Durbar Square ancient palaces of Shah and Malla kings.

Touring around the city you return back to your hotel. There your guide will give you a brief introduction about your Dhaulagiri circuit trek. And give you a few tips that can be helpful in this trek.

After that, the rest of the time is free. So, if you need supplies you can visit nearby markets. Or you can just call it a day.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Baglung then Trek to Beni

Drive Duration: 9 hours

Trek Duration: 3 hours

Maximum Altitude: 817 m above sea level

Today you wake up early and begin your journey towards Baglung via Pokhara. You board your ride and head out of the noisy city. You will be traveling, viewing greenery, rivers, etc along the way.

The ride is very enjoyable viewing scenic views. You will travel past many small towns on your way. As you reach Pokhara you head towards Baglung from there. This city is about 37 km away from there.

As you reach Baglung, your trek journey begins as you head towards Beni from there. The route is not very harsh and is about a few hour’s walks to reach Beni.

Beni is the district headquarter of Myagdi district. This town is situated in the convergence of the Kali Gandaki river and Myagdi Khola. You will stay here for the night.

Day 4: Trek from Beni to Babichor

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Maximum Altitude: 950 m above sea level

Today you head towards Babichor from Beni. Heading out of the small and beautiful town you walk along the Myagdi Khola. You move towards the west from the north banks of this Khola.

This day you will walk through Singa, Tatopani, and Beni Mangalghat Village. Walking in the trails you will cross two suspension bridges before reaching Simalchaur. From there, you walk ahead in the trails through terraced fields along the Myagdi Khola. Arrive at Babichor.

Day 5: Trek from Babichor to Dharapani

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Maximum Altitude: 1500 m above sea level

Today you will head towards Dharapani from Babichor. As you head out of Babichor you can see terraced hills on both sides of the rivers. Quite a wonderful sight there.

This day’s paths are a bit uneven and rough so get ready for some adventure. As you walk on this trail you trek past Duk Khola. Today you will walk through many small villages and fields too before you arrive at Rotorunga. From here, as you follow the trails it gets narrow until you reach Dharapani.

You get to see the panorama view of wonderful terrace fields and beautiful landscapes from here.

You camp here for the night.

Day 6: Trek from Dharapani to Muri

Trek duration: 6 to 7 hours

Maximum altitude: 1840 m above sea level

Today you head towards Muri from Dharapani. Leaving this place you cross over the Khola and reach the west bank. You continue to walk this trail till you reach Phedi. Then from there, you make a steep ascend through the fire forest till you reach a ridge.

Then you walk on a flat surface for some time and again make a climb in the trails. You will have walked past Mattim, Ghati, Phalai Gaon, and many more. Walking the trails you cross the Dhara Khola and again reach the west bank of Myagdi Khola.

From there you climb a ridge and arrive at Muri. This is a small but beautiful village inhabited by the Magar community. You stay here for the night.

Day 7: Trek from Muri to Boghara

Trek duration: 7 to 8 hours

Maximum altitude: 2080 m above sea level

Today you head towards Boghara from Muri. Leaving the village behind you make a slight descent in the trails. Then crossing over a stream you pass a few fields. Then climb a ridge and reach a pass.

You get to see the beautiful Mt. Ghustung South from this pass. Viewing this again, descend in the paths and reach Naura. Then make a slight climb through a hill. And again make a steep climb in zigzag trails till you enter a beautiful forest of pines and oaks.

Viewing scenic views and terraced fields you arrive in Boghara. You get to see the wonderful view of Dhaulagiri I, Gurja Himal, etc.

You stay here for the night.

Day 8: Trek from Boghara to Dobang

Trek duration: 6 to 7 hours

Maximum altitude: 2880 m above sea level

Today you head towards Dobang from Boghara. You begin the trek by making a descend in the trails through terraced fields. Then reaching a ridge you enter a lush green forest until you reach Jyardhan. This is a very remote settlement of this region.

From here, you cross a rocky area then drop in the trails and again ascend till you reach Lapche. Walking a bit further you enter another forest and make a climb to Dobang.

You stay here for the night.

Day 9: Dobang to Camp

Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours

Maximum altitude: 3200 m above sea level

Today you head towards Camp from Dobang. As you head out doban you make a slight climb in their trails. Then following the paths you gradually continue to climb through the thinning forest. Arrive at Camp and stay here for the night.

Day 10: Camp to Italian Base Camp

Trek duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Maximum altitude: 3700 m above sea level

Today you head towards Italian Base Camp from Camp. This will be your first time seeing glaciers during this trek. Making many up and downhill climbs you will reach the Italian Base camp.

You get to see the magnificent peak of Dhaulagiri I in front of you. While Manapati on your right and the great wall of Tsaurabong Peak behind.

You stay here for the night.

Day 11: Rest day

On the eleventh day of your Dhaulagiri Circuit trek, you will have your first acclimatization. This day is held to help your body adjust to the current environment.

Today you roam around the camp and see the stunning views of snowy mountains. You should give your body some rest before your further climb.

You stay here for the night.

Day 12: Italian base camp to Camp

Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours

Maximum altitude: 4300 m above sea level

Today you head towards Camp from the Italian Base Camp. The route between these places are prone to stone fall. So, you will be waking up early this day to begin your trek.

Walking in the trail you pass a narrow gorge and arrive at Camp. You stay here for the night.

Day 13: Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp

Trek duration: 4 to 4.5 hours

Maximum altitude: 4750 m above sea level

Today you head towards Dhaulagiri base camp from Camp. This is one of the major highlights of this Trek. You will see many outstanding peaks from here. Such as Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, and many more.

On the north-east side, you can see the icefall descend which looks quite amazing. Stay here for tonight.

Day 14: Rest day

This is another acclimatization held here in the base camp of the world’s seventh-highest mountain. You have trekked above the 4000 m altitude so to prevent altitude sickness rest day is made.

You can roam around the area and take snaps. Or just get some rest and save some stamina for the next day.

Day 15: Dhaulagiri base camp to Hidden Valley via french Pass

Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours

Maximum altitude (hidden valley): 5050 m above sea level

Maximum altitude (French Pass): 5400 m above sea level

Today you head towards Hidden Valley from Dhaulagiri Base Camp via French Pass. This day’s trek begins by climbing across two hills. You will cross the first hill that goes along the glacier. Then making a slight climb you reach French Pass.

This is another highlight of this trek. You will have reached an altitude above 5000 m. From this pass, you get to see the stunning view of Mukut Himal, Tashi Kang, etc.

Leaving the pass you walk along the ridge and make a descend till you reach the Hidden valley.

You stay here for the night.

Day 16: Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Thapa Pass

Trek duration: 6 to 7 hours

Maximum altitude (Yak Kharka): 4400 m above sea level

Maximum Altitude (Thapa Pass): 5230 m above sea level

Today you head towards Yak Kharka from Hidden Valley via Thapa Pass. you begin by descending in the trails. Then making a slight climb you reach Thapa pass another highlight of this trek.

From here, you again make a descent in the trails till you reach Yak Kharka. You camp here for the night.

Day 17: Yak Kharka to Tukuche

Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours

Maximum altitude: 2591 m above sea level

Today you head towards Tukuche to Yak Kharka. You make a steep descend in the trails. Then enter a lush green forest and walk through moraines before you arrive at Tukuche.

You stay here for the night.

Day 18: Tukuche to Ghasa

Trek duration: 4 to 4.5 hours

Maximum altitude: 2012 m above sea level

Today you head towards Ghasa from Tukuche. You will be walking along the Kali Gandaki river following the Annapurna circuit route.arrive at Ghasa and stay here for the night.

Day 19: Ghasa to Tatopani

Trek duration: 4 to 4.5 hours

Maximum altitude: 1189 m above sea level

Today you head towards Tatopani from Ghasa. This day you will pass through narrow gorges to reachTatopani. This is the world’s deepest and steepest gorge. Arriving at Tatopani, you can take a hot bath here. This place offers a natural hot spring.

You stay here for the night.

Day 20: Tatopani to Beni

Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours

Maximum altitude: 817 m above sea level

Today you head towards Beni from Tatopani. Today you will be making many steep downhill walks. Sighting scenic view you reach Beni. This is your last night in this region.

You stay here for the night.

Day 21: Trek from Beni to Baglung then drive back to Pokhara

Trek duration: 3 to 4 hours

Drive Duration:

Maximum altitude: 827 m above sea level

Today you will be trekking back to Baglung from Beni. Retracing your steps you head back to Baglung. Then reaching Baglung you take the bus back to Pokhara.

We members of Exciting Nepal hope you had a great time on this 21 days Dhaulagiri Circuit trek.

Trip Cost US$ 2,245 Per person

Cost Includes:

Cost Excludes:

FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions

Trekking to a new place can always be nerve-wracking  disregard of the number of times you might have done it. Every place has its own culture, non-verbal norms and values, government policies and so on.

Having even the basic knowledge about the place can boost your confidence and give you a positive anticipation of the experience you can gain from the place.

If you are looking forward to trek in Nepal, this article will indeed be of great use to refer to. Answered below, are some of the most frequently asked questions about trekking in Nepal.

1.      Is trekking difficult?

The difficulty level of the trek entirely depends upon the trek you chose.

If you happen to be trekking for the first time, or your physical condition does not permit you to (because of age or other medical conditions) you can always look for easy treks.

Easy treks have shorter number of days, less distance to be walked in a day, and relatively lower altitudes. You do not have to have prior experience or knowledge to trek to these places.

If you are adventurer and are looking for some thrill, you have plenty of options to choose from. Difficult treks have longer number of days. You will have to walk for 5-7hrs a day on an average and these treks are mostly situated in high altitudes. These treks also demand a good level of physical fitness.

Unlike other product, trekking is not about more for better. The difficulty level has got nothing to do with the experience you can gain from a trek.

Go for what you want to and what your physical ability will allow you to. Do not push yourself too hard. Trekking is not a competition. Its relaxation.

2.      Is trekking expensive?

This entirely depends upon how much you are willing to spend on your trek. You can trek luxuriously by spending lavishly or you can backpack. It all depends upon how much your bank balance allows you to.

You will get accommodation for as less as 3-4$ per night, or you can pay up to 60-1004 per night for luxury resorts. On an average, you will need not more than 10$ for a meal. If you are looking for economical places, you can eat 3 meals for 10$! But eating at such places come at a great cost of low hygiene rate.

Bottom line: Nepal is not an expensive place when it comes to tourism. It is probably one of the places you can have the most economical luxury trek comparing to what a luxury trek would otherwise cost in your country!

3.      What preparations should I make before trekking?

It is always a good idea to involve yourself in doing physical exercises before trekking. Not that you have to be all athletic and muscular to trek. An average level of physical fitness will make the journey less stressful.

Ending up with sore muscles, blisters, joint pain, and back pain can be very discomforting while trekking. This is unlikely to happen if you exercise beforehand.

Start exercising at least a month before the trek. You can do cardio exercises like running, jogging, long walks, cycling and swimming. Carry a light backpack along with you to get used to it. Gym work out can be a good option too. Just don’t over-do it.

If you are going on an easy trek, you need not be very physically fit. But prior exercising is still a good option. You will only make your journey more comfortable.

4.      What are the things I need to pack?

There are a long list of things you will need for trekking. The things you carry can affect the entire experience of your journey. So make sure that while purchasing any gear, make no compromisation on the quality or the brand of the equipment.

To know about the things you require, refer to the following link-

http://www.thelongestwayhome.com/travel-resources/trekking/equipment-gear-needed-for-trekking-in-nepal.html

5.      Do I need special permission to trek?

You will not need trekking permits in any of the treks in the Everest region, the Annapurna region and also in the Langtang region. But you will have to pay entry fees while entering a conservation area or a national park.

Trekking permits are a must for trekking in the restricted regions. The permits are available for purchase in the department of immigration located in Dillibazaar, Kathmandu. For further information, refer to-

http://www.taan.org.np/pages/trekking-permit-fees

6.      Is drinking water easily available?

Availability of drinking water is not the problem. The problem is the cost of it at higher altitude. As you gain height, the price of water rises up to 2-3$ per liter.

An alternative way of getting drinking water is by having your water bottles filled in tea houses. Tea houses will provide you boiled water for about 0.4-0.7$ per liter. They are completely safe for drinking.

Therefore, do not forget to take at least two water bottles with you.

7.      What kind of food is available during trekking?

Food is not of any concern while trekking. You will get all kinds of cuisines. For breakfast, tea houses will provide you with eggs cooked in your preferred style along with pan cakes, bread butter, roti, and so on.

Various other dishes like pizza, pasta, momo, chowmein and many more are also available. The most preferred dish is Dal Bhaat. It is a typical Nepali meal. Rice is served with vegetable curry, lentils, tomato chutney and meat curry. The best part- an extra helping will no cost you extra! The meal is highly nutritional. It will also keep you fueled for long walks.

8.      What kind of accommodation should I expect?

Accommodation depends upon the type of trekking you are going for. There are two types of trekking

1.      Tea house trekking:

You will be spending your night in tea houses. Tea houses are local lodges and hotels. They are small and comfortable enough. Most rooms are shared with two small cots that have mattress, pillows and sheets. If you need spare blankets, you can always ask for it. The rooms have attached bathroom, western flush designed and shower. You will have to pay for hot shower and electricity.

Dormitories are also available and a very low cost of about 3-4$ per night. These come with common toilets and bathrooms.

The cleanliness of the rooms may not live up to your expectations. Bring your own pillow if possible. Conjunctivitis is a common case you might fall sick of.

2.      Camp treks

In this type, you will spend your nights in tented camps. Such treks mostly lie in the restricted regions. These regions do not have enough facilities to accommodate many people.

 

9.      What are the risks associated with trekking?

Trekking is an extreme sport and does come with a lot of risks. Some unavoidable risks are avalanche, heavy rainfall, earthquake, landslide and other such natural calamities.

You might fall and injure yourself or catch some viral flue. The deadliest risk of trekking is AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness. This sickness occurs when a great altitude is gained and the body fails to adjust to the changing pressures associated with it. Anyone can fall a victim of the sickness and if not treated in time, it can be fatal.

10. How to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?

There is absolutely nothing you can do to prepare your body for altitude sickness. But yo can take few precautionary measures to avoid it. They are-

1. Attain height gradually and slowly
2. As you cross over 2000meters, reduce your number of walking hours and walk slow
3. Drink plenty of water
4. Take ample rest. Take more rest if you feel like your body is asking for it
5. Eat high caloric food
6. Avoid smoking or drinking

11. How to diagnose AMS?

In order to detect AMS, you need to be aware of the symptoms of them. They are-

1. Headache
2. Nausea and vomiting
3. Dizziness
4. Tiredness
5. Loss of appetite
6. Upset stomach
7. Feeling unsteady
8. Shortness of breath
9. Increased heart rate
10. Difficulty sleeping

If you notice any of the symptoms, take immediate precautionary measures such as:

1. Do not climb any higher for the next 48 hours
2. Descend to a lower altitude if possible
3. Take complete rest until you feel well
4. Do not exercise
5. Do not smoke
6. Drink plenty of water
7. Take external oxygen supply if necessary
8. Take anti-sickness medicines

If you see no further improvement in your heath within the next 48 hours, you will have to be deported to Kathmandu in a helicopter. Therefore, do not forget to issue and insurance that will cover you helicopter reuse cost.

12. Do I need a guide/porter to trek?

There is no such hard and fast rule that you must have one. But it is highly advisable to travel with them. Some of the treks cannot be trekked without a guide most of them are the restricted ones.

A guide is someone who will help you with navigations. He will also have a better idea about the places to live in and eat at can negotiated prices for you. They will also help you during medical emergencies.

A porter is someone who will carry your load for you so that you can enjoy long walks.

In case you hire them, you are entirely responsible for providing them with trekking gears, food and accommodation and other medical facilities.

Guide/porter as also available these days. These are people who play the role of both a guide and a porter. Hiring them will save you from bearing an additional cost.

13. Can I trek solo?

To some places, yes. But trekking solo in the restricted area is completely forbidden. You will have to trek in a group.

A lot of people trek solo in Nepal and have thoroughly enjoyed. Trekking solo has its own benefits. You will not have to adjust your schedule according to anyone. You can also follow your own route as you wish to. Also, finding your way, especially in the non-restricted regions, is very easy. The routes are well marked and pretty straight.

Nepal is completely safe for solo trekkers. But you will also have to be a little more careful while travelling alone.

14. What is the difference between trekking independently and trekking with an agency?

Trekking independently means trekking without an agency. You can hire a guide or a porter if you want to. You may also have a trekking partner. But the entire journey depends upon the way you want to take it.

In treks organized by agencies, they will have a well-planned schedule designed for you which you will have to strictly follow. Most of the times, you will be travelling with a group. The agency will also provide you with a guide and a porter. Trekking with an agency will be a little more expensive than trekking independently or solo.

15. Which is the best season to trek in Nepal?

Every season as its own charm. However, the best seasons are spring lasting from April to May and autumn lasting from September to November.

In these two season, Nepal sees the maximum number of tourists who come to trek. These are the busiest months of the year. The weather is highly pleasant and favorable for long walks. The trails are blossoming with fresh leaves and flowers. The clear skies allow you to get a great view of the magnificent Himalayas.

Conclusion

The above information covers up almost everything you need to know about trekking. If you happen to have any queries, please feel free to leave a comment below or inbox us at [email protected]