Trek Grading

For trekking and climbing activities, we have graded the trek into “Easy”, “Moderate”, “Hard/Challenging”, “Strenuous” and “Very Strenuous”. We define the grading based on the elevation of the trek, nature or characteristics of the trail, duration of the treks, the requirement of experience or climbing skills, and the requirement of fitness level. The grading can be subjective as actual weather, your state of health, fitness, and wellbeing during the trek will be the actual determinants for your success.

“Easy” and “Moderate” graded treks in Nepal are suitable for beginners who are fit and healthy; whereas “Hard/Challenging”, “Strenuous” and “Very Strenuous” graded treks are for the experienced and physically strong trekkers or climbers.

Easy

Elevation	:	Up to ~3,000m
Trail Nature		Gradual terrain and well-marked trails with access to facilities (hot bath, phone line, WIFI) Short trek It requires no acclimatization Offers opportunities to visit discover the local cultures and panoramic view of the Himalayan mountains
Required Experience	:	No prior experience or any skills required
Required Fitness	:	Average fitness and ideal for any age group
Example of Treks	:	Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking, Mardi Himal Trek

Moderate

Elevation	:	Up to ~ 5,500m
Trail Nature	:	Gradual to steep/challenging terrain with trekking around 4-6 hours in a day Well-marked trails popular with trekkers and have access to teahouses or facilities Require 1-2 days for acclimatization to prevent acute mountain sickness (AMS) Offers opportunities to see the Himalayas at a closer view, discover remote villages with interesting cultures, flora and fauna. Yaks will typically graze at above 3,500m.
Required Experience	:	You will add no prior experience or any skills required but an advantage
Required Fitness	:	Good fitness and stamina
Example of Treks	:	Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, Everest Gokyo Lake Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Tsum Valley Trek

Hard/ Challenging

Elevation	:	Above 5,000m
Trail Nature	:	High passes, rocky terrain, snow-covered and unbeaten trails May require crossing glaciers at some point High altitude with low oxygen level Lack of access to facilities and often without a phone line Some days required to trek over 6 hours and at night Offer a magnificent view of the Himalayas and for those who are seeking real adventure and adrenalin rush
Required Experience	:	You require prior trekking experience and skills
Required Fitness	:	Good fitness and stamina are essential, and the ability to endure harsh weather with well mental preparedness
Example of Treks	:	Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, Makalu Base Camp Trek

Strenuous

Elevation	:	Above 5,000m
Trail Nature	:	Snow-covered high passes and unbeaten trails where you could be exposed to harsh weather, such as strong wind May require crossing glaciers, use of crampons, ropes, and ice-axes at some point High altitude with low oxygen level Lack of access to facilities and often without a phone line Some days required to trek over 6 to 7 hours and at night Offer a magnificent view of the Himalayas and for those who are seeking real adventure and adrenalin rush
Required Experience	:	You require a good level of climbing experience and skills. Rope climbing and adds mountaineering skills advantage.
Required Fitness	:	Good stamina, strong physical fitness, and well mental preparedness are required
Example of Trek	:	Everest Three Passes Trek

Very Strenuous

Elevation	:	Above 6,000m
Trail Nature	:	Peak climbing is high mountain expeditions that require technical skills e.g. using crampons, ropes, ice-axes, abseiling skills Require good acclimatization and ability to adapt to the lack of oxygen Require staying in a tent and the ability to endure harsh environments Offer once-in-a-lifetime outstanding experience, majestic views of the Himalayas and glaciers and as a gear up the to climb for higher and more precipitous peaks May experience altitude sickness
Required Experience	:	Serious climbing skills, advanced mountaineering knowledge, and experience are required
Required Fitness	:	Excellent stamina, strong physical fitness, good health condition, and well mental preparedness are required are essential
Example of Treks	:	Island Peak Climbing, Lobuche Peak Climbing, Mera Peak Climbing, Pisang Peak Climbing

We wish to reiterate that this trek grading is just to serve as a reference. Those who suffer from medical conditions such as heart diseases or respiratory problems should consult medical advice before joining the trek. It is important to choose a trek that fits one’s level of fitness, capabilities, experiences, and present health condition. If you require further clarification, please do not hesitate to Contact Us.