In Nepal, Trek Grades are given to all treks. This is a guide referring to the difficulty and the fitness you may require. It means interpretation & description of the routes based on the duration of the trek, altitude, remoteness, trail condition, weather & other factors. We cannot say precisely how difficult or easy a walk could be in the mountain. It depends on age, fitness, ability to walk from person to person.
Easy
A trek with an easy grade is suitable for all levels of fitness and age groups. It is ideal for couples travelling with young children. The trails will be easy without any excessive long up hills or step gradients. An easy trek is normally at lower altitudes and in milder weather so less equipment is used. These treks are normally within easy access of roads and main towns in case of emergency. On an easy trek, a day’s walking is rarely more than 5 hours. Easy treks are normally short covering 1 to five days.
Moderate
A moderate trek will include some longer climbing or greater distances to be covered during the day. The trails may include some steep rocky staircases or scrambling through close forests. These treks require a basic level of fitness and can also be suitable for families with children of aged people.
Moderate to Difficult
A moderate to difficult trek requires a medium level of fitness. During these treks, you will be required to walk up to 6 hours in one day. The trails will not always be clear and may at times be narrow and steep. You will be at times quite high in altitude so should be prepared for colder conditions and occasional snow. Moderate to difficult treks are normally in well-facilitated areas but at times you should be prepared for minimal facilities and amenities, esp. if it is a camping trek. And you will be more isolated from major roads and towns.
Difficult
A difficult trek requires a high level of fitness and some basic mountain trekking experience will benefit you. You should expect the trails to be steep and narrow in some places. It may involve some scrambling over rocks or through tree roots. It will involve extended periods of uphill and downhill trekking. A difficult graded trek usually means you will be trekking up to higher altitudes; therefore you should be prepared for walking in snow and extreme weather conditions. On some days you may be required to walk extended periods of time due to the remoteness of villages and suitable camping sites. Amenities and facilities will be less and you will be further away from the main roads and towns.
Most Challenging
This kind of trek is the hardest and requires a high level of fitness and some previous trekking experience. It will require you to trek at greater altitudes, sometimes above 5000m and there will be extended periods of climbing uphill. The trails will be steep and rocky and a small amount of climbing may be involved. Also, you should expect to be walking in the snow in some places and be prepared for extreme weather conditions. These kinds of treks are generally in remote areas with fewer facilities and amenities. You need to be thoroughly prepared and with experienced guides in these situations. Also in some places where you are required to cross passes you may be required to walk in excess of 8 hours per day.