Nepal Trek – FAQ’s

Q: Is the “trekking” hard?

A:  That is a very difficult question to answer and it is different for everyone.  If you are in decent physical shape and you listen to your guide you should do fine.  ”Fitness” per see is not an indication on how you will do at altitude, and actually people who walk slower often do better than “fit” and fast hikers.  Best to contact us if you have concerns about your ability to accomplish this trek.  The walking is no different than walking in the mountains anywhere else in the world – except there are lot’s of stone stairs in Nepal.  The biggest deal is the fact that you are out in the mountains for 17 days and that seems to wear on some people more than others.  Ninety year old’s have made it to Everest Base Camp!  This is a walking trip – no “climbing” is required.

Q:  How can I know if I will be able to handle the altitude?

A: It is different for everyone, however we have had a very high success rate by following our carefully planned acclimatization schedule that we have been experimenting with over the last 30 years.  We know how to get you to Everest Base Camp and have taken hundreds of people there.  ”Fitness” is not an indicator of how you will do at altitude.  How well you listen to your guide and follow his advise is what we have found to be the critical factor that determines how people do on this trip.  Listen to your guide and you will do fine and feel good and have a great time.

Q: What kind of walking shoes/boots should I wear for this trip?

A: A low-cut or mid-height lightweight hiking boot or a heavyweight trail running shoe works just fine for this trip. Unless you are prone to ankle problems and need extra support, you don’t need big bulky hiking boots.  Waterproof and breathable boots are recommended.  The “BEST” boots are the ones that fit you the best – try Lowa Zephyr, Vasque Breeze, Merrel Chameleon.

Q: Since we will be staying in lodges do I need to bring a sleeping bag?

A: Yes. Although we do sleep in lodges with beds, it is best to sleep in your own bag on top of the bed in your room. Some lodges have sheets and blankets or there are typically Tibetan blankets on the beds you can throw over your sleeping bag if more warmth is needed. 

Q: Do you recommend trekking poles?

A: ABSOLUTELY – and you can buy them cheaply once you get to Kathmandu.  There is a million reasons why you should use trekking poles – for good balance, posture, saving your joints, avoiding slips and twisting ankles, keeping yaks and dogs away, crossing streams, descending stairs, etc., etc..

Q: Are there ATM’s available?

A: There are ATM’s in Kathmandu, one of which is not far from our hotel. There is also an ATM in Lukla and Namche, but they cannot be relied upon to work.  This is “Nepal” – a saying you will often hear – meaning there are no guarantee’s with anything in this country, and especially in the mountains.

Q: Can I rent a sleeping bag for the trip vs. bringing my own?

A: Yes, you can rent a sleeping bag in Kathmandu for the trip. The cost is very minimal, though the cleanliness of the bags are not known. You can also buy bags in Kathmandu at a good price.

Q: Are there food choices for vegetarians?

A: Yes, usually there are plenty of menu items including rice, lentils, potatoes, noodles, and soups, and a wide range of vegetables that will cater towards the vegetarians out there.  You will be able to order what you want off the menu in each lodge. 

Q: Is Internet access available?

A: There are many internet cafes located throughout Kathmandu, along with a business center located right in our hotel. While on the trail there are opportunities to access the internet in Lukla, Namche, and Pheriche. The presence of Wi-Fi is increasing in the Khumbu region so using an I-pad with a SIMM card works very well (usually).

Q: Is trip insurance required? 

A: Though we can’t make you purchase trip insurance, we at Right Path Adventures we highly (did we say HIGHLY) recommend you acquire coverage for your trip and your belongings.  We recommend using: Alliance Travel insurance – www.alliancetravelinsurance.com

Q: Will we have the opportunity to take showers while trekking?

A: Most of the lodges we stay in have showers. The “showers” provided may be as simple as a bucket filled with hot water and a tube providing the water flow, but it’ll get you clean!  The showers are often solar heated so are affected by weather, and the number of people ahead of you!

Q: Water? Is it safe to drink, and is it readily accessible? 

A: The water in Nepal is not safe to drink other than bottled water. Bottled water is available for you to purchase along the way. 

Q: With all the electronic devices and “iThings” I have, will I be able to keep them charged? 

A: Sometimes but usually often enough.  Most lodges provide charging services for a small fee. Make sure to bring the appropriate adapter for the region (A type C adapter will work in most cases. A type C is a two-wire plug that is ungrounded and has two round prongs) so that you are able to plug in your device. The lodge owners do not provide this for you.  Charging is unreliable but can be accomplished.  Nepal is a third world country and you are in the mountains – nothing can be promised in this environment, especially when solar power is being used.  Hair dryers are not recommended as they can blow the power at these lodges. 

For any other questions please contact your Nepal guide Steve Tickle at: 425-830-3590  or email directly at: steve@RightPathAdventures.com