Family Treks in Nepal

Family Treks in Nepal are a fantastic way to share an incredible family adventure and fulfilling experience. Trekking is an excellent way of bonding and creating memories. Nepal has some of the most beautiful trekking destinations for families to explore together. 

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a boom in family treks as more kids-friendly trekking trails have come into operation. Although most trekking regions still lack infrastructure, they have become more accessible. Similarly, the accommodation facilities provide basic but more amenities. The technological advancement and availability of the Internet have also become widespread. 

There is a vast selection of short treks with moderate difficulties in Nepal. Most trekking destinations do not have any age limit. Hence, you can join the trek even with small children. One fine example is that the youngest person to reach Everest Base Camp was a two-year-old from Scotland. 

Family Treks help foster relationships between family members. They can share and create memories that will last a lifetime. Similarly, the increasing number of family treks promotes tourism in Nepal. 

This article will explore topics related to planning a family trek, tips, family-friendly trekking destinations, and more. So, make sure you read until the end! 

Planning Your Family Treks In Nepal

Choosing the Right Time to Trek

Before you pack your bags and embark on your journey to the Himalayas immediately, you must choose the right time. When planning your best family trek in Nepal, choose the best time for trekking. This is especially crucial if you are trekking in Nepal with kids. The season highly influences the weather and climatic conditions. Spring and autumn are the best seasons, with perfect weather and climatic conditions.

Similarly, the trails are dry, and you can enjoy clear views in spring and autumn without obstruction. The pleasant weather makes the trek more comfortable and enhances the trekking experience. Remember that the temperature at lower and high altitude regions varies significantly despite the season. The weather also becomes more unpredictable as you go higher.

Trekking in the off-season (summer and winter) comes with additional challenges. It requires more preparation, and you must prepare the plan cautiously. If you are traveling with small kids, we strongly advise avoiding off-seasons.

Selecting the Ideal Trekking Route

While selecting the right trek destination, look for short-duration destinations with moderate difficulty. Along with adventure, it is essential to ensure the safety and comfort of your family members. If you have children under ten, do not opt for long-duration treks. The trek can quickly turn disastrous or even dangerous if you are too ambitious about the destinations. So, select the trek routes ideal for beginners and lower altitudes.

It is best to choose treks below 4000 meters for family treks with younger children. If you aim for higher altitude treks, consult with your trekking agency and plan cautiously. Some of the popular trekking destinations for family treks include Ghorepani Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley, Lower Mustang, Everest Panorama etc.

However, you can take family tours like Kathmandu sightseeing or Chitwan wildlife safari tours instead of trekking. Likewise, you can also take adventure activities such as a one-day hike, canoeing, kayaking, etc.

Preparing for the Trek

Trekkers must be in good fitness to trek in Nepal. Even during short and easy treks, one can succumb to altitude sickness, as most treks take you to altitudes above 2500 meters. Therefore, considering the family members’ age, fitness, and health is crucial when selecting the trek destination. Go on short hikes or undertake training as a whole family to increase physical strength and stamina.

Explain the trek and altitude sickness to them in a way they can understand. Similarly, explain to your kids how moving too quickly can cause them breathlessness and discomfort. Younger children may not be able to tell you what they are experiencing. Teach your kids to let you know immediately in case of any discomfort. 

The right equipment and gear are also essential for a successful family trek. Hence, ensure you carry comfortable shoes, warm and lightweight clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, sunscreen, snacks, and necessary medications. 

Family-Friendly Trekking Destination

Kathmandu Valley Treks

Trekking on the remote trails to the Himalayas with your family is a great way to share adventure. However, shorter trek spots are also near the capital city, Kathmandu. Some popular destinations include Chapadevi hiking, Chandragiri hiking, Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park trek, Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Trek, and Kakani to Shivapuri Trek.

These destinations offer an escape from the bustling city life into the lap of nature. Moreover, they are close to the capital city and suitable for anyone with limited time and small children. You can enjoy Nepal Trek without having to travel to remote areas. 

Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region has some of the most accessible trekking routes in Nepal. The region offers everything from easy, short treks to challenging, long ones. The scenery and mountain views are also some of the best in the country. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the most family-friendly trekking trail. Similarly, these trails lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Some of the treks for families in the Annapurna region include Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Mardi Himal Trek. These treks provide stunning views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and many more. In addition to the scenery, these treks offer an enriching cultural experience. Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the popular destinations. However, it is a physically demanding, high-altitude trek unsuitable for trekking with small kids. 

Langtang Region

Langtang Valley Trek in the Langtang region is another excellent family trek option in Nepal. The off-the-beaten trails pass through dense, subtropical, verdant highland meadows. The region is easily accessible via the roadway. Your trek starts in Syabrubesi. The highest point is the Kyanjin Gompa, which sits at 3870 meters altitude.

The scenic trail offers gorgeous views of the Langtang range, picturesque valleys, rivers, and glaciers. Similarly, you will also find accommodations with good facilities. However, the trials are physically demanding. It is most suitable for children above the age of ten. 

Everest Region

When we say the Everest region of Nepal, the Everest Base Camp Trek comes to everyone’s mind. There is no age restriction, and even beginners can join the trek with proper preparation. But it is a high-altitude trek that is long and challenging. It requires extreme caution, proper itinerary, preparation, and logistic support. However, it is a popular family trek destination.

There are packages like Everest Family Trekking, Everest View Trek, and Everest Panorama Trek, which are more kid-friendly. These treks have short durations, and the highest points are at most 4000 meters. The trek offers gorgeous views of Mount Everest and other ranges.   

Mustang Tour

The Mustang region has easily accessible routes and two geographical areas: Lower Mustang and Upper Mustang. So, you can take either a Lower Mustang Trek or an Upper Mustang Trek. A dusty and bumpy winding road connects Mustang with Pokhara. The trek offers a fantastic view of the arid landscapes, mountain vistas, ancient monasteries, and picturesque Tibetan settlements.

Additionally, the Mustang Tour is an enriching trek experience. You and your family can explore the ancient forbidden kingdom of Lo Manthang, ancient ruins, wall caves, artifacts, and forts. Cozy homestays are available along Mustang’s routes. At Lo Manthang, you can find concrete-storied accommodations with homestay-style hospitality. The trek is a perfect blend of adventure and unique Tibetan culture.

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Family-Friendly Activities and Experience

Cultural Immersion

Several cultural immersion tours are available for the entire family. These offer insights and learning opportunities into new cultures, traditions, and customs. Similarly, they help family members bond, grow, and develop personally. It will be a memorable experience that promotes cross-cultural understanding. 

Tamang Heritage Trail, Lhasa Cultural Tour, and Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour are some options for cultural immersion tours. These short tours take you to elevations below 4000 meters. You will visit ancient temples and monasteries while also experiencing the diverse culture of rural Nepal. They are ideal for families with toddlers. 

Wildlife Encounters

Nepal is rich in biodiversity, and during the trek, you will witness diverse flora and fauna. In recent years, Nepal has become a hub for eco-tourism. There are various conservation areas and national parks all across the country. Many trekking routes go through these protected areas. As a result, it also provides an opportunity to encounter and witness rare wildlife. It will also be a great learning experience. 

It is also possible to take wildlife tours in Nepal. There are several wildlife safari tours, like the Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Tour, the Nepal Hunting Reserve Tour, and the Bardiya National Park Tour. These tours take you to the country’s famous parks and wildlife areas, making them perfect getaways for the whole family. 

Adventure Activities

Aside from trekking and tours, you can also do other activities with your family, such as helicopter tours, mountain flights, paragliding, rafting, zip-lining, mountain biking, bungee jumping, canyoning, kayaking, etc. You can choose any of the activities that are most suitable for your family. Activities such as helicopter tours and mountain flights are ideal for families with small kids.  

Some popular helicopter tours include the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, the Muktinath Helicopter Tour, the Gosaikunda Helicopter Tour, the Langtang Helicopter Tour, the Upper Mustang Helicopter Tour, the Manaslu Helicopter Tour, and the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. These tours usually last 2 to 3 hours. 

Accommodation

You will mostly find tea houses, lodges, and guest houses along the trekking trails in Nepal. These accommodations are usually small and provide basic facilities and amenities. They usually have a room with two beds and limited furniture, shared bathrooms, and communal dining space. Despite basic accommodations, they provide clean beds, blankets, pillows, and bedsheets.

During your family trek, choose accommodations that can accommodate your whole family. Some accommodations provide family rooms with multiple beds. You should book the accommodations in advance as finding desirable rooms in peak seasons is hard. If you are trekking via a local tour operator, they will handle all your bookings. 

The tea houses are the best way to experience authentic Nepalese hospitality. They offer a rustic experience and a glimpse of local customs and lifestyles. These accommodations also provide various local and Western cuisines. So, even for picky eaters, there are food options.  

Tips for Successful Treks in Nepal

Here are a few tips for successful family treks in Nepal:

• Choose short and moderate treks with lower altitudes.
• Consult with health professionals before you embark on the journey. 
• Research the trekking route and plan an itinerary that best fits your family. You should set realistic expectations for the trek. 
• If you have a toddler below two years old, consider bringing carriers.  
• Bring warm clothing and extra snacks for your kids. 
• Ensure your family’s safety and comfort during the trek. 
• While on the trek, encourage your family members, especially kids, and be patient. Allow them to explore at their own pace. 
• Capture moments and memories during the trek. It helps to build a sense of shared connection and accomplishment. 

Safety and Responsible Trekking 

Take a look at some tips for safe and responsible trekking in Nepal: 

• Choose a responsible trekking agency with impressive track records and customer reviews.
• Hire a guide and a porter. Ensure that the guide has the proper license and experience for your trek. 
• Pack light but adequate clothing and equipment that you and your family will need for the trek. Invest in proper equipment and gear for the trek. 
• Trek only on designated trails and follow your guide’s instructions. Ask your guide if you want to take any detours. 
• Take your time ascending at higher elevations and acclimatize properly. Also, stay well-hydrated. 
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene while on trek. Dispose of your waste properly and leave as little trace as possible behind. 
• Be respectful of the region’s culture and tradition. Get permission from the locals before you take pictures of monasteries or temples. 

Conclusion

There are numerous destinations for family adventure in Nepal. These treks are a great way to spend your vacation with your family and create memories. You can embark on a thrilling trekking adventure together and learn new things. Similarly, it is an opportunity to educate yourself and your kids about new cultures, traditions, and nature conservation. 

However, trekking with small children is risky and requires extreme caution. Despite modern facilities, many trekking regions still lack infrastructure. You must calculate all the challenges and risks while planning your trek. For further information on Family Treks in Nepal or more, visit our Boundless Adventure website!