Nepal Lion Trekking FAQs has all your answers to your questions. A lot of trekkers frequently ask a question that how will I do this and that. Now, it has never been so easy with intensive feedback from our past clients and trekking guide.

FAQS

Are you a licensed trekking agency?

Yes, we are a licensed trekking agency. As a member of Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN), and also a member of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) we have been organizing tours, treks, and expeditions for our valued clients for more than eleven years. We assure the safety and ethics kept on our both hands.

 

How do I book a trek with you?

After choosing the trip you wish to join, just click Book Now. After clicking this link, at the bottom of the page you will find a form, fill up and you will be redirected to the payment portal of Himalayan Bank. Once you make the deposits of any trip we will get confirmation from that and after that, we are good to go. The next step is to book a plane ticket to Asia and then get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. If there are any details you are unsure of we are on hand to provide the answers, feel free to send us an email or give us a call.

Email: info@nepalliontrekking.com

Mobile/ Whats app: +977 9851039020

 

What are your Booking and Payment conditions?

Your booking will only be confirmed by Nepal Lion Tours & Treks after you have submitted a completed Booking Form and made a non-refundable deposit of 30 percent of the cost of your trek or tour. The final payment is due 20 days before departure or sooner. We accept payment by Cash, by Credit Card or by Bank Transfer to our company bank account.

 

Do I need a VISA to enter Nepal?

A visa for Nepal is to be obtained before departure from your home country or a visa can obtain at Kathmandu Airport. It is to note that your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after your return and 2 passport size pictures needed. For more detailed information please visit the information page on the Department of Immigration for VISA information.

 

Can your guides speak English?

The cultural tour guides are quite proficient. The trekking guides speak a reasonable amount of English, good enough to explain to you about the places, local culture or any sight that catches your eyes.

 

How big are the groups?

We try to bring together a small group of like-minded people to give them a memorable and insightful travel experience, coupled with an invaluable opportunity to interact with each other in a fun-filled environment. Our travel group generally comprises of maximum 12 or 15 members. We need a minimum of 2 participants to run our fixed departure dates. For private trips, no minimum and maximum apply.

 

Will there be somebody to meet us at the Airport?

Yes, our office representative will be at the airport to welcome you. They will hold a banner with a name of yours. After that, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Then, you will be invited to our office where you will meet your trip guide and trip briefing is done.

 

Do you arrange private treks?

Yes, we do. If you would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people (minimum 1 & maximum 100 at a time). The cost for the private trip is fixed based on group size, trek area, duration, and trek style, and is negotiable. We also arrange TREKS FOR SINGLE WOMAN. If none of our fixed group departure dates work for you and you do not have anyone to accompany you, you can still be able to make your preferred trip with us. There is absolutely nothing to worry about making it a solo trip. We assign local guides, porters, etc who you can trust your life with.

 

How long do we walk each day?

All our trekking programs are classified into THREE different categories according to the level of difficulty. Soft Adventure treks are only about a week to 10 days in duration. They generally don’t go above 4000 meters and each day, you can expect to be walking for around 4 – 5 hours. While moderate to fairly challenging treks are longer treks that go right into high mountain country. Physically quite tiring, these involve approx 6-8 hours trekking along rocky ridges of high Himalayan peaks. Strenuous treks are longer treks that go far beyond the normal haunts of trekkers and tourists. Physically challenging, these may involve 7-9 hours trekking and likely to include unfavorable weather conditions and strenuous activities. It’s not for beginners.

 

What sort of Hotels do you use?

While in the city areas the is a wide range of choices and we will offer you a hotel depending on your requirements and your budget. In the trekking areas, we use the local lodges/tea houses/homestays. Most properties in the trekking areas are simple with basic facilities. We use those we know to be the best offering in terms of comfort, food, and facilities.

More Related FAQS

Do I require Travel Insurance?

Yes. Travel Insurance will ensure your safety and security throughout the trip. Travel insurance with maximum medical cover is mandatory for all trips to Nepal.

 

If I arrive a day early are you able to help me with accommodation on arrival?

Yes, we will be delighted to help, just let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do what we can.

 

What sort of Accommodation can I expect while trekking?

While trekking mainly teahouses and lodges are available and they are generally built using local materials and are quite comfortable. These accommodations are often family-run and usually provide single and double rooms as well as the occasional dormitory. The dining room is downstairs and often houses a fire. All food will be cooked to order in the family kitchen. The toilet facilities will be separate, sometimes outside. Most lodges provide a mattress and a quilt or blanket. It’s a good idea to always have a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat may be useful and perhaps an inflatable pillow. Most places will provide you with a lock for your room, but you may prefer to use one of your own.

 

Whilst we endeavor to stay in the best possible accommodation along the way, you should be aware that most teahouses, particularly in the smaller villages, are quite basic. The bedrooms are usually very small, the shared bathroom facilities are often outside and meals are served in a communal dining hall. Although simple, the teahouses do provide shelter and warmth and are normally run by friendly local families. Teahouse treks are less expensive then Camping trek and are largely suitable for a small group. Usually during busy seasons if private rooms in smaller villages are fully occupied you might have to sleep in the dormitory.

 

Can I have a single room or do I have to share?

Single supplements are additional services that cost extra. This can be avoided if you are happy to share a room with another same-sex solo traveler. We are happy to work with you if you have any questions relating to this.

 

What permits will I require and what fees I need to pay?

The best way is to trek with an agency by your side which will arrange everything including the permit works. If you go trekking into the mountainous regions and high national parks of Nepal you will be required to trekking permits, called TIMS – Trekkers’ Information Management Systems. Some restricted regions of Nepal also require additional permits to visit. Climbing also necessitates permits for climbers and porters and the cost varies for categories of summit and altitude. For more detailed information please visit the information page on the Nepal Tourism Board website: Permits & Fees.

 

What type of food is served during a trek?

On the Tea House treks we provide standard breakfast, lunch and three-course dinner, tea or coffee will also be included with each meal. Your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the best value meals possible. Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not normally extensive. Most teahouses offer a variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast.

There will also be plenty of snacks available such as biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. You can buy packaged water (bottled mineral water) from the local lodge and shop en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.

 

Is the water ok to drink or do I need to bring purifying tablets/filters?

On tea house trek, you will be able to buy safe hot drinks and mineral water in the tea house however to help conserve our environment and reduce porters loads we recommend you bring water purification tablets or a Steripen.

 

What about security during trekking?

The security of our clients is foremost important for us. All our guides and other support crew are carefully chosen for your trips. Our guides hold licenses issued by the Nepal Government. They are very honest and reliable. But we would also advise you to take care of your personal belongings. If you are on ‘camping trek’ please do not leave your bags unattended at any time for your safety. Take your main bag inside the tent once you reach the campsite.

At night, put all the bags and belongings in the middle of the tent. Your guide assigns a Sherpa on turn wise basis to guard the campsite throughout the night. If you are on the ‘Tea house or GAP trek’ arrangement, you will be sleeping in a local tea house. You have to take sensible precautions yourself at all times. Never leave your baggage unattended and keep your lodge room locked when you go out.

 

What is the GAP trek?

This is an abbreviation of Guide Accommodation and Porters (GAP). This option of the trek is for those who want basic support from us. This is the most economical way to do trekking in Nepal. We provide an English speaking local Sherpa guide, book and pay for the accommodation in local lodges during the trek and arrange the required porters and trekkers pay for meals directly to the local lodge owner. This option works only in certain routes in Everest, Langtang, and Annapurna regions where trekking routes are served by local tea houses or lodges. You pay for your meals. We take care of all the expenses of our staff.

 

How Should I dress during a trek?

The clothing you bring will need to allow for both the warmth of the days and the chill of the nights. While trekking during the day at lower altitudes, lightweight trekking trousers and T-shirts are recommended. It’s always a good idea to carry a waterproof jacket and some warmer clothing with you though as mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. For the cold nights, thermal underwear, a warm fleece jacket and even a down jacket will help to keep you warm. Good shoes are of great importance. They must be sturdy and comfortable.

For higher altitude treks where you may have to tread snow for long hours, good boots are available for rent in Kathmandu. Because of local customs, try not to wear too skimpy or revealing clothes. Your reception by locals can vary greatly on the way you dress.

 

What is the best time for trekking?

The best time to trek is from October to May. The first two months of the dry season – October and November, when it is still comfortably warm – are ideal for trekking in Nepal. December, January, and February are still good months for trekking, but it can be bitterly cold at high altitudes.

 

Is it possible to change the lodge if it is not in order?

Yes, you can change the lodge if you feel it is not in order by talking over with your guide, (provided there are other lodges with good rooms in the vicinity).

 

Do you reserve rooms at the lodges before or during the trek?

We accommodate trekking groups in local lodges available on the trail. As it is not possible to book the rooms days in advance, we send a porter a few hours ahead of the group each day to book the rooms.

 

Is it possible to alternate or change the day trips?

It is possible to change the day trip as per your request by consulting your guide.

 

What sort of weather will I face?

Trekking in spring (March – April) is particularly lovely as the rhododendrons are in full bloom, and the mountains still have plenty of high snow to enhance your photos. You need to be aware that it can get pretty hot and sunstroke can be a risk. Good polarizing sunglasses or glacier glasses (not trendy fashion ones) for high altitudes/winter treks and a large brimmed hat are a necessity. It is also important to make sure that you can stay warm and dry in just about any conditions. Expect the unexpected! If unsure about the weather conditions on the trail ask your guide.

 

Will the itinerary stick to the dates or can we change the itinerary?

Depending on the prevailing situation, you can modify it to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary. You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative similar to your original itinerary.

 

Do you provide any trek gears for the trekking?

We provide a down jacket and a sleeping bag for each trekker. During trekking, many of the things will be available at tea houses and lodges.

 

How much extra spending should I bring?

This will depend on the destination and you’re spending habits. However, our trip dossiers will give you an idea of how to budget for additional meals, optional excursions, and extra expenses you might incur on any specific trip.

 

Are credit cards accepted during the trek?

In most cities, yes, to some extent however Nepal does suffer from long power cuts and generators are not always in use particularly during the day, therefore it may not always be possible to use credit cards. In remote and less developed areas you cannot use your credit card at all. We suggest you exchange money when in the city areas before trek will start as you might face problems later. Nepali currency notes are found in denominations of Rupees 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5.

 

Do you arrange domestic and international flights?

In the domestic front, we work with all domestic airlines operating in Nepal. Contact us anytime for booking of domestic or international flights.

 

What type of ground transportation is used on your tours?

We have a fleet of mostly Japanese made Toyota vehicles of all types and sizes, from small two-seater luxury cars to large capacity luxury tourist coaches.4WD Land cruisers are used in difficult and muddy road trips. Size and type of vehicle depending on the size of your group. We use a two-seater car for 1-2 persons, a micro luxury 6-seater van for 3-5 persons, 10 seater van for 6-9 persons and a tourist coach or a coaster for group size above 10 persons. Our drivers are specially trained to serve in the hospitality industry. The vehicles are checked carefully before assigning them to your service.

 

Is tipping included and if not, how much should I budget?

Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. Some trekkers give 10% of the total tour cost as tips.

 

How can I take care of my porter?

You can watch over him if he has sufficient clothing if not ask us to provide that. Keep an eye on your porter if he has altitude sickness, take him down to a safer altitude. Never leave him to wander alone down the mountain. Make sure that he has sufficient food and drink. Your porter can also be your friend – talk to him about his family.

Most porters are students trying to earn extra cash, or married with very young families. These guys can be away from home for months on end carrying packs up and downhills. It’s a hard life and small gestures of appreciation, like buying them a cup of tea, never go astray.

 

What if the guide/ porter left you alone on the trail?

Sometimes the porter/guide may go on ahead if you are walking slowly on an easy trail, usually to find a good place to eat or stay the night. However, this doesn’t mean that you have been abandoned. Your guide/ porter will never leave you behind. We assure you that.

 

What happens in case of an emergency?

In the case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; you shall be rescued by a helicopter. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back in Kathmandu.

Ask your guide to arrange a runner to the nearest communication point and inform the office about the requirement of a helicopter. While asking for the helicopter, please send the name of the sick person and give the exact location from where the helicopter can airlift you. Do not leave the place although you are getting better once you have ordered Helicopter.

 

What is TH trek?

TH trek means Tea house trek. Some of the popular trekking routes are served by lodges making it possible for you to stay at a local Tea house (mountain hut) during your trek. Teahouse treks are less expensive then Camping trek and are largely suitable for a small group. Usually during busy seasons if private rooms in smaller villages are fully occupied you might have to sleep in the dormitory. Price includes accommodation in lodges, guides, porters and all meals.

 

What is an FOT trek?

On FOT or Fully Organized Trek your eating and sleeping arrangements will be fully organized by the support crew. FOTs are also known as CAMPING TREKS. On camping trek, you will be sleeping in tents. A trekking crew consists of one sirdar, one cook, and kitchen crew, Sherpa assistants and porters depending on the size of the group. Under the leadership of the Sirdar (the local trek leader), the crew consists of several Sherpa assistants who will ensure you don’t take the wrong path, a cook and kitchen crew to keep you well-fed with delicious and nutritious meals and the porters to transport all the gear from camp to camp.

Our main aim is to make the trek as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. The ratio of both Sherpa guides and kitchen crew to group members is generally 1:4 and the ratio of porters to group members is around 3:1 at the beginning of the trek, but this decreases as food is eaten and loads become smaller. For bathroom facilities, we carry a toilet tent. Your camping staff dig a deep hole in the ground for excrement and cover the hole with soil after the business is done.

 

Still confused and did not find your question on the list of Nepal Lion Trekking FAQs. No problem it is a good idea to contact us directly.

Email: info@nepalliontrekking.com

Mobile/ Whats app: +977 9851039020