
PREPARING FOR A TREK IN NEPAL AND OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES OF ALTITUDE
Nepal is a legendary destination for hiking enthusiasts. Between dizzying peaks, breathtaking landscapes and physical challenges, treks in Nepal offer an unforgettable experience. However, to fully enjoy this adventure, good preparation and an understanding of the challenges are essential.
The physical and mental challenges to expect
Treks in Nepal, whether short or multi-week, challenge the body and mind. Here are some of the main challenges you might face:
1. The big cold
At high altitudes, temperatures can drop drastically, especially at night.
Advice :
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Bring suitable clothing (thermal underlayers, warm jacket, hat, gloves).
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A high-performance sleeping bag is essential, especially for nights in a cabin or bivouac.
2. Altitude sickness (AMS)
The higher you go, the less oxygen there is, which can cause headaches, nausea or extreme fatigue.
Advice :
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Climb gradually to allow your body to acclimatize.
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Plan treatments such as Diamox or homeopathic granules (Coca 7 CH).
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Chewing garlic can also help, according to local beliefs.
3. Fatigue
Walking days can be long and exhausting, especially if your body is not used to prolonged exertion.
Advice :
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Schedule rest days to regenerate, especially after demanding stages.
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Adopt a walking pace suited to your abilities.
4. Dehydration
The exertion, combined with the dry, cold climate, can quickly lead to dehydration.
Advice :
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Drink regularly, even if you are not thirsty.
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Remember to bring water purification tablets.

The specific challenges of trekking in Nepal
Even for experienced trekkers, Nepal can hold surprises. Here are the key points to anticipate
The altitude
Some routes, such as the Annapurna circuit or the Manaslu trek, exceed 5,000 meters in altitude.
Tip: Practice on mountainous terrain before you leave to get your body used to it.


The climate
Weather conditions in Nepal can change quickly: bright sunshine can give way to a snowstorm.
Tip: Check the weather daily and be prepared to adjust your itinerary.
Rough terrain
The trails can be steep, rocky and sometimes dizzying.
Tip: Wear suitable shoes with good grip and use trekking poles for added stability.

Preparing your trek: the essentials
To experience this adventure safely, here are some practical tips:
Plan your itinerary: Choose a trek that suits your level. For beginners, the Annapurna circuit is perfect, while the Manaslu or Kanchenjunga trek is more demanding.
Prepare your body: Regular training, including mountain walking, endurance exercises and altitude acclimatization, is recommended.
Equip yourself properly: Invest in technical clothing, a good backpack and a first aid kit.
Respect the environment: Favor eco-responsible practices by avoiding single-use plastics and respecting local flora and fauna.
Trekking in Nepal is a unique adventure that requires good preparation and the ability to adapt to the unexpected. By learning about the specific challenges and preparing yourself physically, mentally and logistically, you increase your chances of having an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Experience our adventure in the heart of the Himalayas!
From climbing legendary passes over 5,000m above sea level, such as Renjo La or Cho La , to breathtaking views from Kala Patthar , each stage of our Three Passes trek left us with lasting memories. We also explored Tilicho and Ice Lakes , encountered courageous porters and isolated villages, and discovered the spirituality of Nepal through prayer wheels and sacred stupas.
Click here to read our full story.