Nepal Solo Trekking: Why It’s Banned and What to do Instead?

Effecting April 1, Nepal has banned all solo trekking in Nepal with Everest Base Camp as an exception. Nepal Tourism Board and the government of Nepal have come up with new regulations and policies on solo trekking in Nepal. Due to the excessive amount of high altitude sickness risk and safety concerns, Nepal took this decision.

Trekking in Nepal needs Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card and it is mandatory for all tourists. Now, to get a TIMS card, you must hire a guide and every tourist should go through a trekking company. On top of that, they also have to purchase trekking permits as well. According to Nepal Tourism Board, around 50,000 tourists trekked without a guide or a porter in Nepal back in the year 2019.

The Tourism Board of Nepal has also increased the price of the TIMS permit to Rs.2,000 per person. Before this, tourists who used to travel in groups paid Rs.1,000 for the TIMS card and solo travellers paid Rs.2,000. NTB has also increased the TIMS permit for SAARC nationals to RS.1,000 now.

Note: Trekking in Everest Region does not need TIMS Card anymore, they have to obtain Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit instead.

There are also several reasons why it may not be advisable for trekkers to trek in Nepal  alone:

• Safety: Trekking alone in Nepal can be risky, especially if you are not familiar with the area. There are potential hazards such as altitude sickness, extreme weather conditions, and other hazards that can be dangerous if you are not adequately prepared. Hiring a local guide can provide valuable support and help you stay safe.

• Navigation: Some trekking trails in Nepal can be challenging to navigate, and getting lost can be dangerous, especially if you are trekking alone. Having a guide can help you navigate through the trail and ensure that you stay on the right path.

• Cultural Insights: Nepal has a diverse culture, and a guide can help you understand the local customs, traditions, and way of life. They can also help you communicate with the locals, which can enhance your overall experience.

• Support: Trekking in Nepal can be physically and mentally demanding, and a guide can provide you with emotional support, encouragement, and motivation to keep going. They can also carry your gear, set up your tent, and cook your meals, which can make your trek more comfortable.

• Permits and Regulations: Some trekking trails in Nepal require permits and are subject to regulations, which can be challenging to navigate on your own. A guide can help you obtain the necessary permits and ensure that you comply with the regulations.

• Culture and Language: Nepal has a diverse culture, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Knowing the language can also be beneficial when communicating with locals.

• Equipment and Supplies: It’s important to have the right equipment and supplies for your trek, including appropriate clothing, gear, and food. Trekking alone can mean carrying more gear, so be sure to pack light and efficiently.

Overall, while solo trekking in Nepal can be a great adventure for experienced trekkers, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. Hiring a licensed and experienced guide can provide valuable support and help you stay safe and make the most of your trekking experience.

Undoubtedly, Nepal is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Many people say “Nepal is a gods owned country”. Spiritually rich and geography diverse, Nepal has most of the highest mountains on the planet. Nepal is a very peaceful country where you can find historical monasteries in the lap of the Himalayas and stunning villages far away from crowded cities. Sky-touching snow-capped mountains, amazing mountain culture, friendly people, extraordinary hospitality and genuine smile, Nepal is truly a trekker’s dream come true.

Nepal has been open to the outside world for many years. Unlike other countries, it is really easy to get to Nepal. Anywhere from a short backpacking trek to 3 weeks trek, Nepal has a lot to offer for inexperienced and experienced trekkers. Nepal is a very affordable and accessible country that can host all kinds of tourists. If you are planning for an epic adventure and creating unforgettable memories, Nepal is doubtlessly a country to be in love with.

Let us elaborate further on the reasons why Nepal is considered a trekking paradise.

• Himalayan Mountains: The Himalayas are the world’s highest mountain range, and Nepal is home to eight of the ten highest peaks, including Mount Everest. These peaks, along with several other stunning peaks, make Nepal a prime destination for trekking enthusiasts. Trekking routes in Nepal offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and mountain ranges, making it a perfect destination for adventure lovers.

• Cultural Diversity: Nepal is a multicultural and multiethnic country, with over 100 ethnic groups and a rich cultural heritage. Trekking in Nepal provides a unique opportunity to experience the diverse cultures, traditions, and lifestyles of the people living in the mountains. Trekking routes in Nepal pass through several villages, where trekkers can interact with locals and learn about their way of life. These cultural experiences add an extra dimension to the trekking adventure, making it more memorable.

• Natural Beauty: Nepal is a country of diverse landscapes, ranging from lush green forests to arid high-altitude deserts. Trekking in Nepal offers a chance to explore some of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders, including stunning valleys, pristine rivers, and snow-capped peaks. The Annapurna Circuit, for example, takes trekkers through lush green forests, terraced fields, and remote villages before reaching the high-altitude desert of Mustang. The scenery along the trekking routes is simply breathtaking and makes the trekking experience truly unforgettable.

• Accessibility: Trekking in Nepal is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Nepal offers a range of trekking routes, from easy walks to challenging high-altitude treks. The Everest Base Camp trek, for example, is a challenging trek that takes trekkers to the base camp of the world’s highest peak. On the other hand, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is an easier trek that takes trekkers through picturesque villages and rhododendron forests. Nepal’s trekking routes are well-marked and well-maintained, making it easy for trekkers to navigate their way.

• Hospitality: Nepalese people are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and this is particularly evident in the mountain regions. Trekkers can expect warm welcomes and hospitality from the locals, who are always eager to share their culture and way of life with visitors. Trekking in Nepal provides an opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their traditions and customs, and experience their hospitality first-hand.

In conclusion, Nepal’s unique combination of natural beauty, cultural diversity, accessibility, and hospitality makes it a trekking paradise and a must-visit destination for any outdoor enthusiast. Trekking in Nepal is not just about the physical challenge but also about experiencing the country’s rich culture and traditions, meeting friendly locals, and taking in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Himalayas.