Happy New Year! And welcome to Episode 52 (we couldn't resist) We're wrapping up the year with a mega-compilation of everything you need to know before stepping foot in the Himalayas in 2026. Forget the guesswork: this episode is your essential checklist for an unforgettable adventure.

We answer all your critical planning questions, including:

• When to Go 🗓️: We break down the seasons—from the perfect post-monsoon clarity of Autumn (Sep-Nov) and the vibrant blooms of Spring (Mar-May)—to help you choose the ideal time for trekking and sightseeing.

• Trek Prep 🏃: Getting fit for the mountain! Essential tips on cardio, strength training (stairs are your friend!), and how to break in those all-important hiking boots.

• Stay Connected 📶: The lowdown on getting reliable internet in Nepal. Should you get a local SIM or an eSIM? Plus, connectivity on the major trekking routes.

• Souvenir Shopping 🛍️: The best keepsakes to bring home! We talk authentic Thangka paintings, singing bowls, yak wool, and Lokta paper products.

• Trekking FAQs & Budgeting 💰: Common questions on permits, altitude sickness prevention, and how to realistically budget for your tea house trek versus a luxury experience.

• Accommodation Check-In 🛌: What to expect from city hotels and the charming, rustic tea houses on the trails—from hot showers to cozy blankets.

• Festival Calendar 🥳: Mark your 2026 calendar! We look ahead to major cultural highlights like Dashain (Oct), Tihar (Nov), Nepali New Year (April), and the colorful chaos of Holi (Mar).

Start your 2026 planning right here, right now, and make that Himalayan dream a reality!

We'll be back in 2026 with an all new episodes!