Resources

Nepal is widely known for its rich and diverse geography, culture, ethnicities and religions and is home to approximately 23.5 million Nepalese people. It lies on the lap of the Himalayas spanning over an area of 1,47,181 Sq. km. Nepal’s altitude varies from 90 m to 8,848 m above sea level at the summit of mount Everest.

The entire landmass is divisible into three distinct belts - the Himalayan region (North) which encompasses snow-capped Himalayan range and eight of the world’s ten peaks measuring more than 8000m. The hilly region (middle) houses gorgeous mountains, hills, valleys and lakes, and the Terai or Plain region (South) which is highly fertile and consists of dense forests, wildlife reserves and cultivated lands.

Nepal is a member of the United Nations and is currently writing a new constitution following the recent political changes. Major export commodities are pulses, oil cake, catechu, jute sacking, carpets, handicrafts and ginger.

The capital city of Nepal is Kathmandu and it is where the only international airport of the country is situated. Seven UNESCO world heritage sites are located in and around the Kathmandu valley. Pokhara is also one of the most popular tourist destinations of Nepal, famous for its serene lake and being the gateway to the enchanting Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

Essentials to Pack

The list below is a fairly standard list of kit that would suit a typical medium to long trek in the mountains. Depending on if you are carrying your own pack you may wish to bring more.

Sturdy shoes
Rain coat
T-shirts/shirts
Warm Hat
Sun Hat
Water Repellent Trousers (with zip off bottoms)
Thick Sock
Warm Jumper
Rucksack with Water Bladder
Lots of pants!
Gloves
Fleece
Thermal base layers
Sunglasses
Basic First aid Kit (Guide will have a more comprehensive kit) Medication
Wash bag and Sanitary Products
Flip Flops (Highly recommended!)
Camera Spare Battery
Note-pad and pens/ paints
Cards
Binoculars

Climate

Nepal’s climate changes in different areas of the country dues to the great variety of landscape. It can range from the tropical to arctic conditions. The low lying areas of the Terai experience a hot and humid climate with temperatures rising up to 45°C. The foothill regions have a more pleasant climate with more rain and cooler nights. The mountainous regions can experience temperatures of minus 20°C and have a more alpine climate.

Nepal has four climatic seasons.

Spring (between March – May)

The temperature is warm in the low lands while moderate in higher altitudes with plenty of opportunities of mountain views.

Spring season ranges between 16-23°C (61-73°F)

Summer (between June – August):

The monsoon season in Nepal. It rains almost everyday with occasional thunderstorms in the evening.

Summer season ranges between 23-25°C (73-77°F)

Autumn (between September – November)

The main trekking season. Temperatures are pleasant and the rain is few and far between. The skies are clear with great views of the mountains.

Autumn season ranges between 15-24°C (59-75°F)

Winter (between December – February)

The weather is cool and the sky is clear with occasional snowfalls at higher elevations. This season is good for trekking in lower elevations. The morning and night is cold and the days are warm when sunny. The average temperature in Kathmandu during the four seasons:

Winter season ranges between 9-12°C (48-54°F) June to August: 200-375 millimeters of rain in Kathmandu.

Insurance

When trekking in Nepal it is essential that you are insured for trekking above 5000m. We reccomend recommend EssentialTravel.co.uk as they offer good coverage above this altitude. Click the link below to find out more.

Health and Vaccinations

The following websites contain important information on the health risks when travelling to Nepal.

NHS Fit for Travel

The Foreign Office

World Health Organisation

Travel Health Factsheet