Some of the trekking areas in Nepal readily lend themselves to taking it easy and seeking out diverse experiences and enjoyment, with slow-paced, short and flexible days on the trails and in villages. These areas are where the trail network is dense, lodges, teahouses and campsites are available at short intervals, and the terrain and infrastructure offer diversity.

In short, in addition to the ‘hubs’, these outstanding areas are Helambu, the trekking areas south of Annapurna between the Kali Gandaki Valley and Pokhara, Pokhara Valley and surroundings, the areas south of Pokhara, the lower Khumbu area, ‘hill stations’ east of the Kathmandu Valley, such as Dhulikhel, Nagarkot, and in the plains, Chitwan’s Sauraha.

There are tour operators that offer tours and treks for seniors along the Kathmandu Valley rim, treks to Everest Base Camp, and various other areas. Another pleasant and environmentally friendly option is to stay at one of the so-called ‘eco-hotels that are being built at reasonable distances from Kathmandu, Pokhara and major towns.

All this said it is a fact that elderly people tend to manage elevation changes better than younger people, and that children are fabulous trekkers and love village life in Nepal. If they tire, they can be carried in photos and baby carriers. There are books published on the topic of travelling with children in Nepal. There is no real reason to segregate, but again we stress that visitors should opt for treks and adventures that suit their physical conditions and needs. Taking your child to Nepal can be the best thing you ever did, but only if you adjust your programme to the child’s needs and interests.

With sufficient time available, flexibility and adjustments, less able-bodied can trek with ease on nearly all the major well-known trekking routes.