The short answer
On trek, dal bhat is the best fuel: it is cooked fresh, filling and refilled. Other safe choices are noodle soup, fried rice, eggs, porridge, boiled potatoes and tea. Meat becomes riskier higher up because it travels a long way, so many guides advise vegetarian meals above the lower villages.
Drink plenty of boiled or purified water, carry snacks such as nuts and chocolate, and eat even when your appetite drops at altitude.
Key facts
- Best
- Dal bhat, soup, eggs
- Avoid
- Meat at altitude
- Drink
- Boiled or purified water
- Snacks
- Nuts, chocolate
How it works
- Eat dal bhat dailyEnergy.
- Skip meat high upSafer.
- Drink purified waterAlways.
- Carry snacksBetween meals.
- Eat even when tiredAltitude saps appetite.
Insider tip
Order dinner early so it is ready before dark.
Avoid this
Do not drink untreated stream water.
Related questions
Is dal bhat unlimited?
Usually refills are offered.
Is garlic soup a cure for altitude?
It is a popular belief; hydration and pace matter more.
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