Trekking Nepal is challenging. Even those with an excellent level of fitness can get caught out by the high altitude. So, when you choose a trek, you need to have confidence that your current fitness level to trek Nepal is good enough to meet the challenging conditions you’ll find here. That said – don’t be put off! We really think that most people in reasonable shape can do a trek in Nepal with the right training and a great guide!
There are many options for those with a moderate fitness level to trek Nepal. So, if you exercise regularly at home, there will almost certainly be a trek for you! We’ve met trekkers over the age of 70 on the easier trails like Ghorepani Poon Hill. We regularly see families with older children trekking too.
Every trek has some tough uphill climbs. It’s the only way you’ll see some of the beautiful mountain views on offer! So if you don’t walk very often (including uphill), we recommend that you make a plan to get trekking fit before you come to Nepal.
Longer treks, crossing high-mountain passes demand a much level of fitness and stamina. So you’ll only want to choose one of these treks if you’re feeling really strong and in shape.
This is a great opportunity to think about the trek you really want to do! Not just what you think you can do. Often, we sell ourselves short or we lack belief in what we’re truly capable of. This is your chance to do something amazing and it’ll be well worth the effort to get fit and reach that summit! It could be life-changing!
Trek ‘Level of Difficulty’
Each of our most popular treks show the level of difficulty, in relation to each other.
Easiest Treks
Easiest treks are just what they say. They’re the easiest, lowest altitude treks you’ll find in the Nepal Himalaya! You can still expect to trek for 1-3 days, but not above 2,000m/6,500ft. With this level of effort, you can still enjoy some spectacular Himalayan mountain views! Ask us about organising a shorter trek for you.
Easier Treks
Easier treks are mostly steady walking, with some moderate climbs. If you’re short of time, or concerned about the physical demands of trekking in Nepal, Ghorepani Poon Hill is a great option. It’s one of our shortest and lowest altitude treks. Making it accessible to anyone with a moderate level of fitness. Poon Hill is one of the most popular vantage points in the Himalaya, providing spectacular views of the Annapurna mountains. We guarantee it will take your breath away!
Moderate Treks
Moderate treks are mostly intermediate level walking, with some challenging climbs. Our popular treks to Annapurna Base Camp, the Langtang Valley and Tengboche to see stunning views of Everest are moderate. You trek right into the heart of the Himalaya and enjoy spectacular views from around 4,000m/13,000ft. Yet you walk for less days and without climbing to the highest passes.
Challenging Treks
Challenging treks include some strenuous climbs to summit or cross high mountains and passes. They also tend to be longer treks that require a good level of stamina. Push yourself to the limit on the famous Annapurna Circuit or cross Everest Base Camp off your bucket list!
Very Challenging Treks
Very challenging treks are longer treks crossing multiple high mountain passes. You need an excellent level of fitness to partake in these treks.
If you’re still unsure about your fitness level to trek Nepal, get in touch and we’ll talk you through your options. If an example itinerary doesn’t exist for the trek you’ve got in mind, ask us about the level of difficulty.