Temperatures from 4°C to 10°C
Physical Preparation for Your HIGHLANDER Himalaya Experience
To truly enjoy your HIGHLANDER Himalaya experience, physical preparation is essential. We strongly recommend that you train in advance, aiming to hike or backpack around 200 km (125 miles) over the months leading up to the event. Think of this as getting your body "mountain-ready" for the challenging and rewarding trails of Nepal.
Temperatures from 4°C to 10°C
Get your backpacking checklist here
Backpack checklistExpect dry and sunny weather with low humidity and colder nights.
Prepare for dry and sunny weather with noticeably cooler temperatures after sunset. Ensure your packing list includes adaptable clothing layers suitable for both clear and rainy conditions. Recommended items: headwear, gloves, insulated long-sleeve shirts, hiking trousers, rainproof pants, and a sturdy waterproof coat.
Expect dry and sunny weather with low humidity and colder nights.
Prepare for dry and sunny weather with noticeably cooler temperatures after sunset. Ensure your packing list includes adaptable clothing layers suitable for both clear and rainy conditions. Recommended items: headwear, gloves, insulated long-sleeve shirts, hiking trousers, rainproof pants, and a sturdy waterproof coat.
Break in your backpacking shoes in advance to guarantee a comfortable fit.
By adopting ultralight backpacking principles for your trek in Nepal, you can focus on carrying only essential items and minimizing weight, which allows for a more comfortable journey through the stunning Himalayan landscapes. When selecting your gear, prioritize natural materials like wool for clothing whenever possible, as they perform well in the varied mountain climate. This approach ensures your pack is light, allowing you to fully enjoy your trek.
< 37 lbs
The lighter, the better!
Weather
Expect dry and sunny weather with low humidity and colder nights.
Even the rain is unlikely you should bring rain and dry weather clothing, including a cap or a hat, gloves, cold-weather long-sleeve t-shirt (preferably wool), hiking pants, rain pants, and a rain jacket.
Food
For cooking food, you will need an ultralight backpacking canister stove and at least a 1L pot per person. Isobutane fuel canisters for cooking meals will be provided by HIGHLANDER.
Navigation
To find your way around, you must know how to read gpx maps and use a compass as well as a GPS navigation tool that you may use alongside the compass.
For Hercules, Pegasus, and Orion a special physical map will be provided by the Organizer.
Safety
For your safety, a personal first aid kit is mandatory for all participants. In the high-altitude environment of the Himalayas, the primary risks are not from large animals, but from the elements and from a lack of preparedness. Please be aware of your surroundings and keep your campsite tidy. This helps to respect the local ecosystem and ensures a safe and clean environment for everyone.
Littering
We know that our participants share our deep respect for nature. We've provided you with a waste bag, and we trust you'll use it to carry out any trash you create. Please remember that littering at any point on the trail, checkpoints, or campsites is strictly forbidden. Any participant found littering will be disqualified and barred from future HIGHLANDER events.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome but must always stay on a leash. See the Rules for more info.
BACKPACK:
(MANDATORY)
FOOD & DRINKS:
HYGIENE & PROTECTION:
LIGHT:
CLOTHES:
PERSONAL ITEMS & GEAR:
Get your backpacking checklist here
Backpack checklistThese are many of the closest and most convenient airports and to our Event, Annapurna:
Getting to the Annapurna Region
The HIGHLANDER Himalaya event takes place in the Ghorepani–Poon Hill–Jhinu Danda region of Nepal’s famous Annapurna Trail. Your adventure begins with access from either Kathmandu or Pokhara, both of which are well-connected domestically and internationally.
Nearest Airports:
From either airport, all transportation (private jeeps, shared vans, or cars) can be arranged directly through the Highlander Himalaya organizing team. Whether you need a pickup, hotel transfer, or trail access vehicle, simply contact us—we’ve got you covered.
Accommodations
For your convenience, we handle all lodging arrangements in Kathmandu and Pokhara for both pre- and post-event stays.
We encourage participants to stay in cozy, authentic guesthouses or partner hotels that we’ve carefully selected. In the mountains, you’ll be staying in comfortable tea houses along the trail, offering warm meals, Wi-Fi access, and the chance to experience local hospitality.
For curated stays or custom requests, reach out to the HIGHLANDER support team.
Arriving by Road
Whether you land in Kathmandu or Pokhara, getting to the starting point of your chosen HIGHLANDER format involves scenic mountain drives.
All overland transportation—including pickups from airports, hotels, or bus stations—can be coordinated by the event organizer to ensure a smooth journey.
Public Transportation in Nepal
Public buses and micro-vans operate between major cities, but services can be unpredictable and are not recommended for tight schedules. Rideshare services like Uber are not available.
If you wish to use public transport, we can assist with reliable, safe options. Otherwise, we highly recommend letting our team arrange private or group transport for your convenience.
Shuttle to the Trailhead
Each HIGHLANDER format (Hercules, Pegasus, Orion, Lyra) starts at a different point along the Annapurna trail.
You will receive shuttle departure times in advance. Please arrive early to:
Luggage Storage
For any bookings related to transport, accommodation, or custom itinerary planning, please contact the HIGHLANDER Himalaya local team directly. We’re here to make your journey smooth from start to summit.
