Trekking in a group can be an exciting adventure. But, trekking alone can also be a completely different yet unique experience. And what best way than to go solo trekking in Nepal.
Nepal is a country blessed with vast natural beauty. There are no words to describe how exquisite the country is. No wonder visiting such a place will create a lifelong experience and beautiful memories.
But trekking solo comes with its own set of questions and worries. How do I trek alone? Will I be able to do it? What if I get into trouble? Will it be awkward? Is it even safe? And so on.
But there are many people who tend to trek alone. They are the ones who say that solo trekking is indeed the best form of trekking. They claim nothing can give them more relief than trekking alone.
So, let those many questions slide to the side and go pack your bags for a solo journey. After all, seeing the world on your own without worrying about a group has its own perks.
Starting your journey with Nepal can be the best option. Because according to many solo travelers, Nepal is best suited for beginners to start exploring early.
Begin with a plan
Making a plan to travel is the most crucial step in order to make your trip an organized one. You must decide about the number of days that you will be spending there. You must make up your mind about how much you can afford to spend on the trip.
It is also necessary for you to choose the place depending on your physical and mental fitness. Well, despite your abilities and condition, you surely won’t be missing out on the mesmerizing view of snowcapped mountains. Nor will you will able to skip the natural charm of the country.
Whatever is your objective of visit, be it spiritual or adventure, your decision of visiting Nepal will never disappoint you.
Trekking with a guide?
It is completely your choice about hiring a guide while trekking in Nepal. If you choose to trek with a guide, the trekking path becomes easier because they certainly know far better than you do about the places and the difficulties.
You should be well aware of restricted areas where you are not allowed to trek without a guide for safety reasons. But, choosing not to have a guide is also not too risky as it is very obvious that you will find many other trekkers on the way.
If exploring the country on your own is your motive, it is better not to go with a guide. In this case, you will get a chance to interact with different people from different parts of the world. However, if you want a guide by your side, make sure to confirm if the person is a legal guide and has all the permits required.
If you are a female trekker, you can opt for a female guide for your own comfort. Nothing can be better than empowering a female from a country where uplifting their condition can prove very fruitful. Doing this will add a social cause to your adventure as well.
Cost and Budget Plan for Solo Trekkers
Travelling in Nepal is not going to make a hole in your wallet as it is not so expensive here. You can choose from a variety of accommodation that suits you best and is within the budget.
Be careful not to choose the cheapest facilities as that may lead to sleeping all night with cockroaches and rats. The facilities may be below par and you may have to suffer. You will of course not want that after a day-long trek.
You can take a porter with you if you have a heavy backpack. Spending around $10 can provide you the facility of carrying your things so you can enjoy the trek in the best possible way.
Taking a guide with you can cost around $25 per day. Remember to carry some Nepali Rupees to give tips to the porter and those who help you with accommodation because this little amount can lighten up their day.
Best Time for visit for Solo Trekkers
Visiting Nepal in every season has its own specialty. People visit Nepal round the year.
Nevertheless, April is regarded as the best time for the treks in Nepal. Some of the major reasons of the attraction of this time are a very favorable climate and the blooming of Rhododendrons. The prices of accommodations, food and travel tend to be higher than other time of the year in April because of the heavy flow of the tourists.
You are advised to pre-book all the facilities for safety and convenience.
Best Treks in Nepal for Solo Trekkers
- Poon Hill Trek
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Everest Base Camp Trek
- Langtang Valley Trek
- Jomsom Muktinath Trek
Additional Tips for Solo Trekkers
No matter how healthy and fit you are, you must be aware of altitude sickness. Be careful not to avoid any symptoms of this condition. Remember to carry chocolates and extra snacks which can help you deal with it.
As soon as you feel uncomfortable, do not hesitate to inform the person nearest to you and ask for help.
Your safety is very important. That is why always inform the nearest and a trustworthy person about your plan and the places you will be visiting. Updating the person about your location regularly can be of great help if you get in some trouble.
It is always better to reach your destination before it is too dark for safety reasons.
Trekking in Nepal will not make you uncomfortable because the people here are renowned for their kind hospitality and humble nature. The locals follow the phrase” Athithi devo vawa” meaning “Guests are God”.
Also, to fulfill all your expectations you may have from Nepal, you need to give this beautiful country enough attention and time, which it truly deserves.
