Most problems on a Himalayan trek start weeks before the trek itself: boots that were never worn in, insurance that doesn't cover altitude, or fitness left to the last fortnight. Here is the timeline we give our own trekkers.
Quick answer: Start about 12 weeks before you fly. Book the trek and flights first, then build fitness steadily, buy and wear in boots, arrange insurance that covers helicopter rescue to your maximum altitude, check vaccinations, and pack in the final week. Many trekkers fly in 2–3 days early to rest and sort permits.
12 weeks out: book and plan
- Choose your trek and dates. Spring (March–May) and autumn (late September–November) are the main seasons. See best time to trek.
- Book international flights and your trek. Lodges and Lukla flights fill up in October and April.
- Start training: three or four sessions a week. See how to train for a trek.
8–10 weeks out: health and paperwork
- See a travel clinic about vaccinations. See vaccinations and health.
- Buy travel insurance that names trekking and covers your highest altitude.
- Check your passport has at least six months' validity. Most nationalities get a visa on arrival.
6–8 weeks out: boots and gear
- Buy boots now and wear them on every training walk. See our boots guide.
- Decide what to buy at home and what to rent in Kathmandu.
- Start back-to-back long walks with a loaded daypack.
2–4 weeks out: test everything
- Do a full training day in your trek clothes, with the pack you'll carry.
- Pack a trial bag and weigh it. On Lukla flights the limit is 15 kg in total. See baggage limits.
- Assemble your first-aid kit.
Final week
- Taper training. Rest, sleep and hydrate.
- Bring passport photos for permits and some US dollars or euros in cash.
- Read up on altitude sickness so you know the symptoms.
Still unsure? Read common first-time mistakes, or ask us.