Peak Climbing in Nepal | Best time for Peak Climbing Expedition

27 April Post by: Pasang Sherpa

Nepal is a small yet beautiful country situated in Southeast Asia. Nepal is famous for its high peaks and deep valleys of the Himalayan mountains. With scenic beauty and abundant majestic mountain peaks, it has become a point of attraction for thousands of hikers and mountaineers from all over the world.

In Nepal, there are more than 1300 mountain peaks including the highest mountain range in the world. It is the home for eight peaks that exceed 8000m height which are Mt.Everest (highest peak in the world), Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna. Besides these eight giant peaks, there are 326 other mountains that are open for climbing and mountaineering, and out of them, 103 have never been climbed before.

With a variety of options than any other country, packed with endless challenges including the less known trekking peaks, Nepal has become a paradise for mountaineers. These mountains have the fame for utmost adventure to conquer. For challenge-loving mountaineers, it is a dream to climb all the highest mountains in the world.

The large range of the Himalayas makes Nepal the most popular destination for mountaineers. Many mountaineers looking for new adventures and challenges, come to Nepal enduring and fulfilling their desire to summit Himalaya Peaks and praise the world from its rooftop. There are a variety of peaks that can be climbed as per your choice from friendly beginners climb and non-technical climb to technical and challenging climb.

Although mountains like Everest and Annapurna grab all attention, there are other admirable peaks being climbed on a daily basis such as Yala, Tarpuchuli, Lhotse, Mera Peak, Lobuche Peak, Ama Dablam, Manaslu, Himalchuli, etc. Also, some climbers come looking to climb untouched virgin peaks as there are 103 of these pristine peaks, and also new peaks are exposed for climbing from time to time.

Best time for Peak Climbing in Nepal

Nepal has four seasons: Spring (March-May), Summer(June- August), Autumn (September- November), and Winter (December- February). Although peak climbing in Nepal is possible at any time of the year, the ideal season for trekking and climbing is during Spring and Autumn as the weather condition is good, the temperature is comfortable; not so cold, not too hot, and less to no rain.  The Spring season offers warmer weather with greenery lush vegetation and blooming flowers, all bigger expeditions including Mt Everest climbing takes place this season.  Autumn is a great time for climbing in the Himalayas as it offers stable weather with a clear blue sky though it gets colder at night. April and October are the busiest months as they are best for trekking weather-wise and trails get crowded during this time.

During summer, it rains everywhere during the monsoon time making trails wet and slippery. Whereas during winter, it is very cold higher up in the mountains but due to less crowd, some people like trekking at this time of year although some routes may be closed due to too much snow in the area or high avalanche risk.

Permit Required 

Peak climbing is physically and technically very challenging. It requires several considerations before one can start an actual climbing activity. There are various rules and restrictions imposed by the government that regulates peak climbing activities because of environmental, economic, safety, and cultural concerns. The mountains of Nepal are categorized depending on their height and under whose authority they lie. Mountain peaks with altitudes higher than 5,000 meters need a permit.

The peaks that range in altitude from 5,800 m to 6,584 m, require climbing skills and climbing gear and should not be taken lightly. Trekking to peaks below 5,800 meters does not require climbing permits although they will require other forms of permits to enter specific regions. You will need 2-3 permits, one for conservation area or national parks permit another from Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card, and another for restricted area permit.

Accommodations for Peak Climbing in Nepal 

As most of the trekking trails are in amongst nature and remote areas accommodation will not always be the standard types although tea houses and lodges are available at various points in the trekking route. They offer comfortable room accommodation and hygienic local food.  Homestays in villages can also be arranged. Most shelters are comfortable, but rooms might be cold at night hence make sure to bring a sleeping bag even to lodges. Camping can also be organized.

Gears to Peak Climbing Expedition 

It is essential to wear proper gear for mountain climbing. Make sure to carry all of the necessary gear you will need on the trip including a first aid kit. Gears will depend on the level of the mountain you will be climbing therefore make sure you research beforehand. Extra and special climbing gears are expensive to buy although you can also hire gears. Also, most of the travel agencies in Nepal provide extra gear required for the climb like ice ax, harness, the figure of eight, safety helmet, carabiner, etc. Wear clothing that allows you to move and maneuver comfortably. Also make sure to wear well-fitting shoes that provide ankle support, stability, and grip.   

Conclusion

Peak climbing in Nepal provides the ultimate adventure and unforgettable experience with the amazing panoramic view of snow-capped mountains and landscapes. You will get to explore the most remote areas and witness a blend of mixed culture and traditions, and walk through sub-tropical pine and red blooming rhododendron forest with abundant wildlife. There are many well-known and trusted companies that will take care of and organize every aspect of mountain climbing and all the mountaineer has to do is arrive in good shape physically and mentally prepared to take on the adventure.