How do I get from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
You can fly in about 25 to 30 minutes, take a tourist bus for six to eight hours or hire a private car. Flights are quick but weather-dependent, while buses are cheaper and give a look at the countryside. Allow a buffer day on either end of the trek.
Where does the trek start?
Most routes begin at Nayapul, about an hour and a half to two hours by road from Pokhara, or at nearby roadheads such as Siwai or Kimche. Your operator will choose a starting point based on your itinerary and the state of roads.
Can I leave extra luggage in Pokhara?
Yes. Most hotels and operators store spare bags while you trek, often for free or a small fee. Take only what you need on the mountain and leave city clothes and valuables behind.
How much cash should I carry?
Carry enough Nepali rupees for meals, showers, charging, wifi, tips and snacks for the days you are not covered, plus an emergency reserve. There are no ATMs above the lower villages and card payments are rare.
Is there mobile signal and wifi?
Signal is patchy in the lower valley and weak or absent near the top. Teahouses sell wifi by the hour, but speeds are slow. Download maps and offline entertainment, and tell family not to expect daily updates.
Can I charge devices on the trail?
Yes, for a fee. Charging points are in dining rooms and sometimes rooms. Bring a power bank and a multi-adapter, and keep devices warm at night to preserve battery life.
How much should I tip?
Tipping is customary, though not mandatory. A common approach is to pool a tip for the guide and porter at the end of the trek, scaled to group size and service. Ask your operator for typical ranges and hand the tip personally.
What do I do after finishing the trek?
Many people rest a night in Pokhara, soak in the lake views and enjoy proper food and a hot shower. Allow at least one full day before an international flight, since weather and road delays are common.
What should I do if my flight to Pokhara is cancelled?
Flights are weather-dependent, so keep your schedule flexible. The alternative is a tourist bus or private car, which takes six to eight hours. Tell your operator immediately so that they can rebook hotels and transport.
Can I use credit cards?
Cards work in Pokhara and Kathmandu hotels and shops, but not on the trail. Carry enough Nepali rupees for everything between Nayapul and your return, plus a reserve. Exchange money in Pokhara for better rates than at airports.
How much luggage can I bring?
Bring one duffel bag for the trek and leave extras at your hotel. If you take a domestic flight, check the weight limit. Porter limits also apply, usually around 10 to 12 kilograms per trekker.
Can I trek with a group of friends or family?
Yes. Private groups are common, and operators can design itineraries for different speeds. Tell them about ages, fitness and any medical needs when booking.
Is it better to book before arrival or in Nepal?
Booking ahead gives certainty in peak seasons and allows you to compare operators carefully. Booking in Pokhara can save money in quiet months but offers less choice. Choose a registered operator either way.
