The right kit depends on where you are heading. A Poon Hill walk needs less than an Annapurna Circuit with a high pass, but the principles are the same: layers, dry feet and light weight.
Clothing
- Base layers made of merino or synthetic fabric, two sets.
- A fleece or light insulated mid layer.
- A warm down or synthetic jacket for evenings and the upper sections.
- A waterproof shell jacket and trousers.
- Trekking trousers and a pair of shorts for warm lower days.
- Sun hat, warm beanie and gloves; lighter and heavier pairs for the Circuit.
Footwear
Well-worn boots with ankle support and a good grip are essential. Bring camp shoes or sandals for the lodge, plus several pairs of socks. Blister plasters and tape belong in your pocket, not your bag.
Sleeping and carrying
A sleeping bag rated for cold nights is useful, and a liner adds warmth and cleanliness. A daypack of 25 to 35 litres carries water, layers and snacks, while your porter or duffel holds the rest. Keep the load modest.
Other essentials
- Trekking poles, especially for the stairs on Annapurna Base Camp and the long descents.
- Sunglasses with good protection and sunscreen.
- Water bottles and purification tablets or a filter.
- Headlamp with spare batteries.
- Small first-aid kit with any personal medicines.
- Power bank and a plug adapter if needed.
Extra for Thorong La and Tilicho
Bring warmer gloves, a face buff, goggles or good sunglasses and traction for icy sections if your guide recommends it. On the south side in the monsoon, add a rain cover and leech socks.
Leave behind
Cotton clothes, heavy books and spare shoes can stay at your hotel in Pokhara.
Choosing for the season
The packing list shifts with the season and route. In spring and autumn, you need warm layers for high lodges and a rain shell for showers. In winter, add heavier insulation, a warmer sleeping bag and more protection for hands and face. In the monsoon, waterproofing and quick-drying clothes matter most. Ask your operator for a list suited to your dates.
Weight and organisation
Pack in small bags or cubes so that clothes are easy to find, and use a waterproof liner inside the duffel. Keep heavy items near the centre and fragile items wrapped in clothes. Weigh your bag before you leave and remove duplicates. Avoid taking jeans, cotton shirts and bulky towels, which are heavy and slow to dry.
Gear that can be rented or bought locally
Pokhara and Kathmandu have shops selling and renting items such as sleeping bags, down jackets and poles. This lets you travel with less luggage and avoid carrying equipment you may use only once. Always check the condition, zips and warmth, and try boots before buying. Local copies of branded items vary in quality.
Final checks
- Test your boots, socks and daypack on a long walk.
- Pack a basic first-aid kit and any personal medicines.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and a purification method.
- Take a power bank and a spare battery for your camera.
What our guests say
Excerpts from guest reviews of Himalayan Wonders, our parent company, on Tripadvisor.
“They took utmost care of our group of 5 friends from Kathmandu airport upto the completion of the trek”
