These are subject to individual fitness levels and could differ from person to person.
Treks are classified based on the following criteria:
- Altitude gained every day of the trek
- Highest altitude of the trek
- Length of trek each day
- Gradients during the trek
- Nature of terrain (grass, even path, gravel, stones, boulders or slippery)
- Temperature during the trek, snow/ice on the trail, camp site locations
Grade 1: Easy
This includes the easiest trekking, no experience required and there is no difficult climbing or snowy walks. It is just village walking, discovering the lifestyles and culture of rural communities . You can see the panoramic views of mountains, exciting village life and does a beautiful jungle walk.
Usually the elevation goes up to 2500m above sea level is and is considered grade 1.
Grade 2: Moderate
The trek duration each day may span from 4 – 5 hours, but on some days, it may push up to 8 – 9 days. It is slightly challenging, uphill and downhill, walking close to mountain views and walking through the beautiful mountainous forests. The elevation from 2500m to 4000m is considered grade 2.
Grade 3: Difficult
From an altitude of 4000m to 5550m is considered a Difficult trek or grade 3. Most of the trekking of Nepal is in grade 3. You need some previous trekking experiences and have decent physical fitness. Climbing and descending are very usual experiences for these types of trekking and you may have to cross small glaciers as well. This kind of trekking gives you an experience of a lifetime, has very beautiful walking surrounded by spectacular mountains. Above 4000m
Grade 4: Strenuous
Above 5550m is known as grade 4 trekking route. There is high chance of AMS and you must be in a very good physical condition and previous experiences. Extreme conditions make it essential
Of good trekking experience as you will be trekking in very rocky terrain, crossing glaciers, and going through wilderness. This is for those seeking a real adventure and challenge. There are many fairly strenuous trekking trails in Nepal.
Grade 5 : Challenging
Above 6100m, it is considered challenging trekking or grade 4. Often in frigid conditions, this type of trekking involves the expedition of high mountains and serious climbing skills. Climbing snowy mountains is very challenging and you require high functioning equipment, advanced mountaineering knowledge, physical fitness, and beautiful weather conditions. Nepal is one of the best places in the world for challenging treks and expeditions as we have 8 of the tallest ten mountains in the world.