Grading system is not a straightforward measure but overall indication of how tough it will be with considering number of hours trekking, altitude gain/loss and trail conditions (rough track, steep uphill etc.) and usual temperatures.
Our trekking holidays have been graded Leisurely/Easy, Moderate, Strenuous/Adventurous and Challenging depending on their difficulty. Trekking can be a very personal experience; one man’s stroll can be another’s expedition. At Mountain Consultants, we always stress that you select a trip appropriate to your abilities and fitness. We always stress that you select a trip appropriate to your abilities and fitness and it is important that you choose the correct grade for your capabilities.
Please note that the grading system is not a straightforward measure of how far you are walking. Rather it is an overall indication of how tough it will be and it takes into account the number of hours trekking, altitude gain /loss and trail conditions (rough track, steep uphill etc) and usual temperatures. So even though a trek is graded Leisurely, it does not mean you will never feel tired! Similarly, inexperienced trekkers need not necessarily avoid treks graded strenuous. If you have any concerns please do discuss this with us.
Leisure / Easy
This is the easiest of our trekking adventure, usually 4-6 hours (4-6 miles) per day walking over varied terrain, day hiking, sightseeing and jungle walk/bird watching with occasional steep path. Up to 5 days walking in total, you can experience plenty of cultural interest and interaction with local people. People who has a moderate level of fitness and a flexible, open-minded approach can enjoy this type of trip. Maximum altitude reached is 10500 ft with majority of time spend below 7000 ft. Hiking on weekends or morning jogging is plus.
Moderate
5-7 hours (5-7 miles) per day walking in more remote country, relatively low altitude treks, crossing passes over steep and hilly terrain with plenty of ascents and descents in well-defined trails. Treks will often involve multi-day walking for up to 2 weeks but not more than five consecutive days of walking. Maximum altitude reached is 14000ft but most of the time you will be hiking over 8000ft with couple of days at this altitude. Age is not a matter of fact but good physical fitness, used to camping out, hiking regularly and be used to a weekly workout routine is plus.
Adventurous/Strenuous
6-8 hours (6-8 miles) per day walking depending on terrain, hiking over High Mountain passes (sometimes snow covered) with steep and hilly terrain, crossing glacial passes, optional hike to a summit for views at over 5000m/17000ft or over. The maximum altitude is 5600m/18400ft but often exceeds 4000m/13000ft with some days spent trekking above 16000ft. Walk up to two weeks with rest days and acclimatization periods through wild country. To enjoy a strenuous trek, planning a fitness routine, be involved in a daily fitness regimen, ability to hike for long periods of time, tough ascents and descents on minor trail is plus
Challenging
Challenging, long distance treks for the fit mountain lover and trekking enthusiast. Occasionally more than 8 hours consecutive walking but all treks have rest and acclimatization days interspersed. Each trek crosses at least one or many high passes of over 5300m/17500ft and often includes off-the-beaten areas.