FAQ's

nlike any commercial trekking companies which focus more on their guests’ physical activities and direct encounters with nature, social trekking program includes

• Light weight hiking.
• Eating and staying at local teahouses or hostels or local lodges.
• Hiring local guides,
• participating in local customs and
• supporting the local community

Trekkers can enrich their travel experiences by making a positive contribution to the communities they visit and gain first-hand insight that makes their journeys meaningful

MAST reinvests its earnings into social causes, focusing on sustainable development projects that benefit local communities.

Makalu Arun Social Trek (MAST) is one of the best registered government licensed nonprofits distributing Social Trekking Organizer in Nepal. Through the company we plan and organize   social trekking experiences that combine outdoor exploration with opportunities for social interaction. We choose the best scenic routes, manage logistics, ensuring safety among the participants. We are committed to provide a unique social trekking experience in Nepal.

Safety and enjoyment are key priorities  for a traveler . As a social trekking organizer MAST:

• Researches and plans the trek route thoroughly, including alternative paths.
• Hires experienced local porter guides from the local communities.
• Studies weather conditions and adapt plans accordingly.
• Emphasizes acclimatization for high-altitude treks

MAST:

• Explains our guests about the local culture and traditions of local communities.
• Includes visits to monasteries, temples, or local festivals in the trek itinerary along the trekking route.
• Promotes sustainable tourism practices by respecting natural and cultural sites.
• Encourages interactions with locals to enhance participants’ cultural understanding.

MAST:

• Schedules the trek plan  carefully to allow for proper acclimatization.
• Educates participants about the symptoms and prevention of altitude sickness.
• Monitors participants regularly and encourages them to drink enough water.
• Carry essential medication   for the problem.
• Requests a guest to descend to a lower altitude if symptoms persist.

Sustainability is crucial for preserving Nepal’s natural beauty.  Being a social trekking organizer, MAST can:

• Ensures waste materials are properly disposed of in the designated locations.
• Encourages guests to use eco-friendly products.
• Supports local business-like home stays or teahouses.
• Limits group sizes (1-6 people) to reduce environmental impact.
• Advocate for wildlife conservation and respect for protected areas.

In the trekking business MAST faces the  common challenges as follows.

• Unpredictable weather: Monitor forecasts and have contingency plans.
• Group dynamics: Foster open communication and encourage teamwork.
• Navigating remote areas: Partner with experienced local guides.
• Ensuring participant safety: Invest in proper training and carry essential equipment.
• Cultural misunderstandings: Provide pre-trek briefings on local customs.

• Include storytelling or cultural insights during the trek.
• Plan unique activities, such as photography sessions or mindfulness practices.
• Ensure the trekking pace is comfortable for all participants.
• Provide opportunities for group bonding through games or shared meals.
• End the trek with a special event, such as a certificate ceremony or group photo session.

• The great seasons for hiking in Nepal are:

  • Spring (March to May): Enjoy clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons.
  • Autumn (September to November): Experience strong weather, colorful landscapes, and remarkable visibility.
  • While winter and monsoon seasons are much less popular, they are able to offer unique reports on unique routes.

• Most trekking routes in Nepal require trekking permits. The permits are :

  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): For safety and monitoring functions.
  • Restricted area trekking permit for trekking  Kanchenjunga 
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) or comparable permits for precise areas.
  • National Park en trance fees.

• To enhance cultural immersion:

  • Arrange visits to local villages, temples, and monasteries.
  • Include traditional Nepali meals or cooking sessions.
  • Organize cultural exchange events, such as dance or music performances.
  • Educate participants about regional customs, dress codes, and etiquette.
  • Highlight local crafts and support community businesse

• Include storytelling or cultural insights during the trek.
• Plan unique activities, such as photography sessions or mindfulness practices.
• Ensure the trekking pace is comfortable for all participants.
• Provide opportunities for group bonding through games or shared meals.
• End the trek with a special event, such as a certificate ceremony or group photo session.

• MAST:

  • Coordinates with teahouses or cooks to provide vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.
  • Ensures the availability of nutritious meals that support physical endurance.
  • Offers participants the chance to sample local cuisine while respecting their preferences

• To promote interaction and enjoyment, MAST can include:

  • Group photography sessions at scenic locations.
  • Storytelling sessions about local legends or personal travel experiences.
  • End-of-trek celebrations with a small parties, any small souvenirs on behalf of the company.

• After the trek, MAST :

  • Collects feedback from participants through surveys or informal discussions.
  • Assesses the trek’s logistics, safety, and participant satisfaction.
  • Identifies areas for improvement, such as route planning or group dynamics.

  Use photos, testimonials, and positive reviews to promote future events

• For a unique  off the beaten path experience, you can consider:

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek
  • Saldim Valley Makalu Base Camp Trek.
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
  • Shiva Dhara Trek.
  • Lukla Makalu Base Camp Trek.
  • Lumba Sumba Pass Trek.
  • Sabha Pokhari Pilgrimage Trek.
  • Upper Arun Valley Trek
  • Tumlingtar Lukla Trek .