Planning to trek in Nepal on a budget? Let us help you. Nepal is a trekker’s paradise, with some of the most stunning scenery in the world. However, trekking in Nepal can be expensive, especially if you’re hiring a guide and porter. But don’t worry, it is possible to trek in Nepal on a budget.
Here are a few tips:
- Choose a budget-friendly trek in Nepal. There are a number of treks in Nepal that are relatively inexpensive, such as the Poon Hill Trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and the Langtang Valley Trek. These treks are all relatively short and easy, and they don’t require you to go to high altitudes.
- Travel during the off-season. The peak trekking season in Nepal is from March to May and September to November. During these times, prices for flights, accommodation, and trekking gear are at their highest. If you can, try to travel during the off-season (June to August and December to February). Prices will be lower, and you’ll have fewer crowds to contend with.
- Book your flights and accommodation in advance. Even if you’re traveling during the off-season, it’s still a good idea to book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially if you’re trekking to a popular destination. This will help you to get the best prices.
- Stay in guesthouses instead of hotels. Guesthouses are a more affordable option than hotels, and they’re a great way to experience Nepali culture. Guesthouses are typically family-run, and the owners are always happy to help you with your trekking plans.
- Eat like a local. One of the best ways to save money on your trek is to eat like a local. This means avoiding expensive restaurants and guesthouses, and instead eating at local teahouses and dhabas. The food is just as good, and it’s much cheaper.
- Hire a guide/potter(1 person) instead of a guide and potter separately. If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by hiring a guide who will also carry one bag instead of a separate guide and potter. Make sure you pack light so that he will only carry one bag of max 30 kg. You can hire them at most trekking agencies in Nepal. Contact us if you need help to find one
- Choosing GAP (Guide, Accommodation, and Potter) Packages. You can also choose the GAP style packages where you will only pay for a guide, accommodation, and potter with a travel agency, which means you will be paying or spending as per your choice in food and transportation. This allows you to spend accordingly.
- Group Joining Trek. Group joining trek is much more budget-friendly as you will be sharing the guide fee transportation fee. It is also perfect for solo travelers looking for a budget-friendly trek in Nepal.
Here are some additional tips for saving money on your trek:
- Bring your own snacks. You can save a lot of money by bringing your own snacks on your trek. You can buy food and drinks in the villages along the way, but they will be more expensive than if you buy them in Kathmandu.
- Buy your trekking gear in Nepal. Trekking gear is much cheaper in Nepal than it is in most other countries. You can find a wide selection of trekking gear at shops in Kathmandu and other major trekking destinations.
- Negotiate prices. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with trekking agencies, porters, and guesthouse owners. You can often get a good discount if you’re willing to haggle.
With a little planning, it is possible to trek in Nepal on a budget. By following these tips, you can have an amazing trekking experience without breaking the bank.