Common questions, honest answers
The eight questions we get asked most. If yours isn't here, just ask.
How fit do I need to be?
If you can comfortably walk 5–6 hours on rolling terrain at home, you can do a teahouse trek in Nepal. We grade every trip 1–5; most people start with a grade-2 or grade-3.
What about altitude sickness?
Real, manageable. Our itineraries follow standard acclimatisation rules (climb high, sleep low; rest days at 3,500m and 4,500m). Every guide carries a pulse oximeter and we descend immediately at the first sign of AMS.
Can I trek solo?
Not in restricted areas (Manaslu, Mustang, Dolpo) — Nepal law requires a licensed guide and a minimum group of two. For other regions, yes, but a guide makes a huge difference to what you see and how you eat.
What's the food like on trek?
Dal bhat (lentils + rice), Tibetan bread, momos, noodles, eggs, porridge. Vegetarian by default at altitude — we strongly recommend not eating meat above 3,000m, where refrigeration is unreliable.
Will I have Wi-Fi and phone signal?
Most teahouses have Wi-Fi for ~$2/hour and Nepali SIM cards (Ncell, NTC) work up to ~4,500m on Everest and Annapurna routes. Above that, expect intermittent at best.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes — and it must cover high-altitude trekking (to your trek's max elevation) and helicopter evacuation. We won't take you on trek without proof. World Nomads and IMG are common choices.
How cold does it get?
On EBC in November, nighttime lows at Gorakshep (5,140m) hit −10 to −15 °C. Daytime sun can feel hot. Layering and a proper down jacket are non-negotiable.
What's your cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 30 days before departure (full refund minus a $50 processing fee). 30–14 days: 50% refund. Under 14 days: trip-specific — we will always try to credit toward a future trek.