How to Hire a Porter in Nepal Ethically

Porters carry the loads that make multi-week Nepal treks feasible, but exploitation in the industry has been documented for decades. Trekkers have direct power to change this.

Overview

The International Porter Protection Group (IPPG) sets clear standards: maximum load 25kg on mountain trails, 30kg on lower trails. Porters must receive appropriate clothing for the altitude they reach — if your porter crosses a pass above 4,000m, they require a warm jacket, waterproof, gloves, and boots, not sandals. Daily wage in 2026 ranges from NPR 1,500-2,500 for lower treks, NPR 2,500-4,000 for high-altitude routes. Tips of 10-15% at the end of the trek are expected and genuinely important to porter income. Hire through a reputable agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara — Sajilo can take you directly to certified trekking agency offices in Kathmandu.

FAQ

Should I hire independently or through an agency? Agency hiring provides accountability — the agency is responsible for the porter wellbeing. Independent hiring can be fine but requires you to manage all welfare obligations yourself.

What if my porter gets sick on the trail? You are responsible for their medical care and descent costs if you hired them independently. Agency-hired porters are covered by the agency insurance.

Can I share a porter with another trekker? Yes — splitting porter costs is common and still provides full employment for the porter.