Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know, before you go and while you're on the trail — gathered from years of walking these valleys.
The practical things, explained plainly.
Visas & permits
Tourist visas on arrival, TIMS cards, and the restricted-area permits some valleys require. We handle the trekking permits; here's what you sort yourself.
Read the guide → HealthAltitude & acclimatisation
How we pace ascents, the signs to watch for, and why "slow is fast" above 3,000 metres. The single most important read before a high trek.
Read the guide → TimingWhen to travel
Spring rhododendrons, the crisp clarity of autumn, monsoon greens, winter quiet. A month-by-month look at what each season gives — and costs.
Read the guide → PackingWhat to bring
A real, tested kit list for trek, culture, and wildlife journeys — layered for the Himalaya, light enough to carry, nothing you won't use.
Read the guide → EthicsResponsible travel
How we keep groups small, money local, and our footprint light — and how you can travel these places without wearing them down.
Read the guide → Money & connectivityCash, SIMs & Wi-Fi
Where ATMs run out, how much to carry on trek, getting a local SIM, and where the signal genuinely disappears (sometimes a gift).
Read the guide →Do I need to be very fit to trek with you?+
For most journeys, no — you need to be comfortable walking five to seven hours a day on uneven ground, and willing to go slow. We design itineraries around proper acclimatisation, not heroics. The harder, higher treks are clearly marked, and we'll tell you honestly if one isn't the right fit yet.
Are your trips private or in groups?+
Both. Every journey can be run privately for you, your family, or your friends. We also run small scheduled departures — never more than eight people — for travellers who'd like company on the trail.
How far in advance should I book?+
For the popular autumn and spring windows, two to four months gives the best choice of dates and the smoothest permit process. That said, we've put good trips together on shorter notice — get in touch and we'll tell you what's possible.
Can you tailor an itinerary for me?+
That's the default, not the exception. Every journey on the site is a starting point. Tell us your pace, your interests, and how far off the map you want to be, and we'll shape something that fits.
Is travel insurance required?+
Yes. We ask every traveller to carry insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and, crucially, helicopter evacuation. We're happy to point you toward providers other travellers have used.
We'll help you sort the details.
From permits to packing, ask us anything — there's no such thing as too early.
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