The short answer
One or two nights. That gives you rest, a briefing, document checks and last-minute shopping, and time to meet your guide and group.
Key facts
- Nights
- 1 to 2
- Use
- Rest, briefing, paperwork
- After
- Add a spare day on return
How it works
- Arrive a day or two earlyKathmandu is the last place with reliable hospitals, pharmacies and gear shops. Use the time to rest, because jet lag and altitude stack up.
- Attend the briefingMeet your guide and group, check the route and ask about medicines, oxygen and emergency steps.
- Check documents and gearPassports, permits, travel insurance and medical forms. Do a last pack check and buy anything missing in Thamel.
Using your days in Kathmandu well
Rest on the first day. On the second day, attend the briefing, check documents and buy last-minute items. If you have time, visit Pashupatinath or Boudhanath for a gentle start to the spiritual journey.
Avoid heavy sightseeing that tires you before the trek.
Add a buffer on return
Weather and road conditions can delay the return, so leave a spare day before international flights. Keep your Kathmandu hotel booking flexible if you can.
Insider tip
A buffer day at the end absorbs delays.
Avoid this
Do not book a tight international flight right after the yatra.
Related questions
Can I shop for gear in Kathmandu?
Yes. Thamel has trekking stores and tailors, but give yourself time to try things on and break them in.
Should I add a spare day at the end?
Yes. A buffer day at the end absorbs weather and border delays, and protects any onward flight.
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