Guidebooks cover permits and packing. These are the things our trekkers tell us they wish they had known.
Quick answer: Expect early nights, cold rooms, slow days at altitude, small extra costs for showers and charging, and possible flight delays. None of it spoils a trek if you know it is coming.
- You'll be in bed by 8:30. Teahouse life follows daylight, and you'll be tired.
- Rooms are not heated. The dining room stove is the warm place. See sleeping bags.
- Showers and charging cost extra, more the higher you go.
- Porters will overtake you carrying twice your weight. Smile and step aside.
- Dal bhat comes with refills. It's the best-value meal on the trail.
- Yaks have right of way. Always stand on the mountain side.
- Mornings are clearest. Cloud often builds by lunchtime.
- Flights to Lukla get delayed. Keep a spare day or two. See Lukla flights.
- Your appetite may vanish at altitude. Eat anyway: soup and carbohydrates help.
- Stone steps are harder than hills. Poles save your knees. See trekking poles.
- Toilets vary. Carry toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
- You will sleep badly one night up high. It's normal.
- Cash is king. ATMs above Namche are rare or absent.
- Wi-Fi is slow. Enjoy the break. See digital detox.
- The people are the highlight. Many trekkers remember the lodge families most.
Ready? Start with our 12-week preparation plan.