“Grading” is a term used for rating treks based on difficulty. According to our 9 years experience as a guide, we have divided the trekking into four types, namely Easy, Moderate, Difficult and Strenuous- The challenge in terms of both technicality and geographically changes as we move higher in that order. Therefore, Easy and Moderate Treks could be suitable for all while Strenuous and Difficult Treks are meant only for those who have certain experience and capability.

This can help you choose a trek or climb especially in the Mountain Region in Nepal that best suits your fitness level and experience. Please keep in mind that this is a general guide only. A variety of factors, including weather, may make changes in the challenges.

  • Easy Treks: People shouldn’t have the trekking experience to choose this trek, An interest of walking will be enough to take up such treks. Such treks usually starts from 2 days hike up to 7 days trekking and can reach up to an altitude of 3210 mtrs. Treks usually on well maintained paths and passes through ridges and involve walking up to 5 hours a day.
  • Moderate Treks: Crossing 4000 mtrs above in high altitude passes about 5-6 hours of walking a day is a Moderate treks. Such treks starts minimum of 8 days to 12 days. Therefore, you will require physical and mental fitness, positive attitude and interests and previous hiking or camping experience is preferred. You should prepare to face high altitude.
  • Difficult Treks: Previous trekking experience and technical knowledge is essential in Difficult Treks. Besides walking through rough trails for 6-7 hours and crossing high passes as high as 5000 mtrs, you will also be glacier crossings on snow/ice. You will be facing high altitude air with low level of oxygen and continuous walking over huge stretch of Himalayan valleys. Positive attitude and perseverance is required.
  • Strenuous Treks: Strenuous Treks involve long days, long hours of challenging walks, high altitude passes above 5000 mtrs, difficult terrains and glacier and snow walking. No doubt you need to be mentally and physically fit and in excellent health condition. As part of technical requirements, you will require to have rock and ice climbing experience with the knowledge of use of ice axe and crampons. You should consider joining one of the rock climbing and glacier walking classes prior to heading for Trek.