The most popular months for trekking in Nepal are October/November and March/April, though they are not necessarily the best for many treks, these peak seasons attract higher charges and you will wish to decide which is the best time for the particular trek you prefer. The standard treks we offer require no special agility or technical mountaineering ability, although it should be emphasized that few treks in Nepal are easy walking and generally there are steeply hills to go up and down. However, the trails used are safe and generally good, though like any mountain trails, they may sometimes be loose and rough. Anyone in a fit physical condition and used to hiking can undertake a trek with confidence. Age itself is no bar-from little children (for whom we can arrange porters) to those in their sixties. or, in some cases, even seventies. An average day may entail from 8 to 12 miles of walking from 6 to 9 hours though often it is more fun to work out how many meters or feet ''up and down'' have been achieved at the end of a hard day !! When trekking there is plenty of time for rest, lunch or brunch-which is normally 1 1/2 hours or so. We can also design special itineraries for botanists, film makers, ornithologists, painters, etc. who may wish to trek only for half of the day and devote the rest of the time to their hobbies.

We also offer tougher treks in more remote areas, and climbing treks led by our Sherpas (many of whom have climbed Everest and other major 8000m. peaks) to the ''Trekking Peaks'' in Nepal some of which are in excess of 20,000'/6000m.

Whatever the trek you hope to do, it is a wise precaution to consult your physician before you finalize your plans and mention the altitudes you hope to reach. Although there are well-equipped hospitals in both Kathmandu and Pokhara, medical assistance is seldom available in the mountains. Helicopter evacuation in the case of serious illness is available but do take out insurance against medical evacuation and treatment to cover you whilst on the trek. In any event you are required to immediately reimburse any charges which may arise as the result of helicopter rescue, other additional transport used, and all medical treatment required.

The Summer Monsoon: The monsoon rains last from mid-June until mid-September. The three months of the rainy season are characterized by muddy, slippery trails, cloud, humid heat at lower altitudes and an abundance of leeches. However, rainfall may not be continuous and sunny days do occur. Travel is by no means impossible or even hazardous but the general absence of any view of the high mountains means that the monsoon period is not the best time for trekking in Nepal.

Autumn : This follows the Monsoon from early October until mid-November and is a period of blue skies and clear views. Many people consider this to be the best time for trekking in Nepal and consequently the more popular routes can be overcrowded. Post Monsoon rains can sometimes occur and to allow for this, along with a possible ''late monsoon'', it is advisable to choose a departure date no earlier than 15 September. However, in some years the monsoon does end earlier in September, and the last couple of weeks are unusually characterized by bright intervals and clearing views.

Winter : If the weather in October and early November has been rather disturbed it settles by mid- November. The period following generally offers the most stable weather conditions of the year. It will be colder at night at altitude but down jackets and thermals quickly overcome this problem and the daytime temperatures are ideal with almost endless sunshine and the clearest of mountain views. However, this is not generally well- known to those who do not live year-round in Nepal and we suggest that October/early November has in some ways been ''over sold''. Late December and January is also a good time for lower altitude treks below about 10,000'/3000m although there may be some days of rain. WhiIst high pass crossings are "off-limits'' during this time, treks to the Everest area (including Gokyo and Kala Patter) are still possible and this period does have the big advantage of there being fewer trekkers around.

Early Spring : February and March mark the coming of spring and the rhododendrons begin to bloom at altitudes over 6000'/1829m. If you want to beat the spring rush then plan to trek before 15 March.

Late Spring : April and May are excellent months at high altitude and for many is the most favored time of the year for mountaineering. Although it can be hot and hazy at lower altitude you can choose a trek that soon reaches the higher, cooler air and if you aim to visit the very high country or cross high passes (such as Thorong) then a start at this time is mandatory-any earlier, and the winter snows will not have melted.

Insurance : When booking for a trip we strongly advise you to purchase insurance in you home country to cover medical emergencies,hospitalization, trip cancellation and transportation or helicopter evacuation.

Visas : Visas can be obtained from a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your own country. If this is not possible, you may be issued one by immigration Officials upon your arrival at the airport in Kathmandu.

What To Bring To Nepal : After we have confirmed your trek booking and received a deposit, we will send a list of clothing recommended for the particular time of year and place you are going. We will also make suggestions for personal equipment and supplies to make your travel in Nepal comfortable.

Health : Any person in reasonably good health and physically fit can participate in our treks. For areas of higher altitude, a statement from a physician may be required. Aerobic exercise such as swimming, jogging, cycling or fast walking may be helpful to prepare for trekking in the mountains of Nepal.

Other Arrangements : We can also organize your hotel, tour and travel arrangements in Nepal, including perhaps a unique jungle experience in the Chitwan National Park or exciting river rafting in the river of Nepal.