- Overview
- Cost
- Sickness
- Next Trip
- Grade
- Itinerary
- Information
- Equipment List
The peak is a part of the south ridge of Lhotse shar and the main hand forms a Semicircle of clifts that rise to the north of the summits of Nuptse, Lhotse, middle peak and Lhotse Shar. Cho Polu and Makalu lie to the east of the Island peak Baruntse Amphu and Ama Dablam liew to the south.
Gokyo Chola Pass Kalapatar Island Peak Climbing 23 days
Total trip duration 23 Days
Hotel in Kathmandu 4 Nights
Trekking duration 19 Days
Facts of the Trips
| Starting from: | Kathmandu - Lukla flight |
| Ending at: | Lukla - Kathmandu flight |
| Grade: | Alpine |
| Highest access of the trek: | Island Peak 6,168m. |
| Culture: | Different Community with majority of Sherpa, Tamang, Chhetri, Brahamn & Tibetan. |
| Mode of trekking tour: | Lodge Trek & Fully camping trek. |
| Himalayan sights: | Everest 8848m., Lhotse 8516m., Nuptse 7896m, Pumori 7145m., Amadablam 6812m. Thamserku 6800m, Khumbila 5751m, Kwangde Ri 6187m,, Kangtenga 6645m, Kusum Kangru 6369, Makalu 8463m, Island Peak 6189m, Chhukungri 5845m, Lobuche East 6119m, Lobuche West 6145m, khumbuste 6640m, Cholatse 6640m, Cha Kung 7020m, & More attractive snowcapped peaks. |
| Most Attraction of the trek: | Different Community with majority of Sherpa, Tamang, Chhetri, Brahamn and Great Himalayan Landscape etc. |
| Lake: | Gokyo lake 4700m, Cho La lake 4600m, Ngozumba 5400m, Taoche Lake 4400m. |
| Min 2 pax | 3-4 pax | 5-6 pax | 7-8 pax | 9-10 | 11-12 |
| 1600 Euros per person | 1300 Euros per person | 1100 Euros per person | 1055 Euros per person | 1000 Euros per person | 980 Euros per person |
1. 4 nights hotel in Kathmandu bed, breakfast (BB) plan and hotel category 3/4 stars
2. Permit fee of Island Peak
3. Meal: All meal during the trek best available hotel/lodges or tea house
4. One experience trekking guide/Climbing Guide & necessary porters
5. Park fees for Everest conservation
6. TIMS Permit
7. Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu flight
8. Insurance for Guide & Porters
9. All accommodation during the trek best available hotel/guesthouses
10. Airport -Hotel-Airport transfer
11. Farewell dinner
12. Our service charge Price Excludes:
1. Personal equipment for climbing & Trekking
2. Personal Insurance for travel to Nepal
3. Betray Charge and Hot shower
4. Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
5. Emergency Rescue evacuation incase needed
6. Trekking Sleeping bag & Jacket
7. Personal expenses
8. Tipping (Tips)
9. Bar bills & Beverage
10. Departures taxes for International flights.
Suggested Climbing gears:
Climbing boots, Crampons
Ice axe, Harness
Karabiners, Ice screws
Snow bars Tapes/slings,
Rock pegs, Helmet (crash hat)
Warm climbing trousers, Long cotton hiking shirts
Waterproof climbing jacket, Gaiters,
Sun hat, Light cotton athletic socks and wool,
climbing socks, Long sleeved cotton/woolen shirts,
T-shirts, Wool long underwear
Down high altitude, Sleeping bag
Down jacket/ trousers/vest, Climbing sunglasses
Sunscreen, Lip salve
Lightweight fleece, Fleece/wool for climbing
Head torch /batteries/bulbs, Lightweight thermal/ insulated ski gloves
Equipments are available in Kathmandu on sale and parts of this equipment can be rented too.
Altitude sickness often known as Acute mountain sickness (A.M.S.). In general, it may occur when people ascend too quickly, normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. In order to minimize the risk, we manage to have acclimatized in between the trek for few days. Most people feel some effect of altitude, shortness of breath and possibly a light headache, which is fairly common. Acute mountain sickness is very different and normally involves a severe headache, sickness and loss of awareness. In almost every potential case, there are enough warning signs to take precautions.
Our health expert and trained guide will let you know about every health related requirements in advance. So, you should not be worried about it. However, we recommend you to get advice from your travel doctor or health advisor before you leave. We hope the following information will give you some ideas about altitude sickness to minimize its effect.
There are three stages of altitude sickness and symptoms.
1. Normal AMS Symptoms - Should expect but not worry.
Following are the normal altitude symptoms that you should expect but not be worried about. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.
-Periods of sleeplessness.
-Need more sleep than normal (often 10 hours or more)
-Occasional loss of appetite?
-Vivid, wild dreams especially at around 2500-3800 meters in altitude.
-Periodic breathing.
-The need to rest/catch your breath frequently while trekking, especially above 3500 meters.
-Runny nose.
-Increasing urination while moving to/at higher altitudes.
- Dizziness.
2. Mild AMS Symptoms - NEVER GO HIGHER
Many trekkers in the high valleys of the Himalaya get mild AMS, admit or acknowledge that you are having symptoms. You need to have only one of the following symptoms to be getting altitude sickness.
-Mild headache.
-Nausea
-Dizziness.
-Weakness.
-Sleeplessness.
-Dry Raspy cough.
-Fatigue/Tired.
-Loss of apatite.
-Runny nose.
-Hard to breath.
What to do if a mild symptom doesnt go way?
-If you find mild symptoms developing while walking, stop and relax (with your head out of sun) and drink some fluids. Drink frequently.
-If mild symptoms developing while walking, stop have rest, drink some fluids and take 125-250mg Diamox. Diamox generally takes one to four hours to begin alleviating symptoms. Drink more water and consider staying close by.
-If symptoms develop in the evening, take 125-250mg Diamox and drink plenty of fluids again.
-If symptoms partially go away but are still annoying it is safe to take another 250mg Diamox 6-8 hours later.
-If mild symptoms continue getting worse try descending for a few hours which may be more beneficial than staying at the same altitude. Going higher will definitely make it worse. Youre here to enjoy trekking not to feel sick.
3. Serious AMS Symptoms - IMMEDIATE DESCENT
-Persistent severe headache.
-Persistent vomiting.
-Ataxia (loss of co-ordination, an inability to walk in a straight line, making the sufferer look drunk)
-Losing consciousness (inability to stay awake or understand instructions
-Mental confusion or hallucinations.
-Liquid sounds in the lungs.
-Very persistent, sometimes watery, cough.
-Difficulty breathing.
-Rapid breathing or feeling breathless at rest.
-Coughing clear fluid, pink phlegm or blood (a very bad sign).
-Severe lethargy/fatigue.
-Marked blueness of face and lips.
-High resting heartbeat (over 130 beats per minute)
-Mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
Prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
- Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
- Dont make rapid Ascent. Dont go too far too fast.
- No Alcohol, Sleeping pills and Smoking.
- Drink more fluid 3-4 Liters a day, clean water-boiled or treated / tea / coffee / soup / juice etc.
-Climb high and sleep low.
-Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
-Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, and guidebook.
- Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
-Never leave or descent sick person alone.
-Avoid getting cold.
-Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer.
First Aid Kit
This is the basic list to cover the more common ailments that affect trekkers. Climbing groups, expeditions and trekkers going to isolated areas will need a more comprehensive kit.
-Bandage for sprains
-Plasters/Band-aids
-Iodine or water filter (optional)
-Moleskin/Second skin - for blisters
-Antiseptic ointment for cuts
-Anti-bacterial throat lozenges (with antiseptic)
-Aspirin/Paracetamol - general painkiller
-Oral rehydration salts
-Broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxin)
-Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic)
-Diarrhea stopper (Imodium - optional)
-Antibiotic for Guardia or similar microbe or bacteria
-Diamox 250/500mg (for altitude sickness)
-Sterile Syringe set (anti-AIDS precaution)
-Gel hand cleaner.
The Royal Chitwan National Park has 6 premier jungle resorts scattered inside its boundaries. These secluded resorts are the perfect place to experience the true safari atmosphere of the Terai. All the jungle activities are just a step away and there's always a chance to spot wildlife. The resorts have offer individual cottages with a private bath or well managed luxury tent camps to stay in. You will be in the heart of the park surrounded by the soothing jungles of Nepal. The accommodations outside the park are more budget type guest houses. Even you are planning to do a budget trip we can arrange reservations at one of the best lodges outside and it is also include inside jungle activities and both way transportation.
2 Nights/ 3 Days Schedule:
Day 01: Arrive, meet and transfer via boat across the Narayani river to Resort. On reaching resort, our guest relations officer will brief guest.
1:00 p.m.: Lunch.
3:30 p.m.: Elephant Safari / Jungle Walk / Nature walk with Boat ride.
8:00 p.m.: Dinner.
Day 02:
5:30 a.m.: Wake up call followed by tea/coffee.
6:00 a.m.: Bird watching / Elephant Safari / Jungle walk.
8:00 a.m.: Breakfast.
9:30 a.m.: Crocodile walk. A 45 minutes walk through grassland and forest upstream of the Narayani river. Board boats to observe crocodiles along the bands while floating back to the camp.
1:00 p.m.: Lunch.
3:30 p.m.: Elephant Safari /Jungle Walk / Visit Observation Tower / Nature Walk with Boat Ride.
8:00 p.m.: Dinner.
Day 03:
5:30 a.m.: Wake up call followed by tea/coffee.
6:00 p.m.: Bird Watching / Elephant Safari / Jungle Walk.
8:00 p.m.: Breakfast.
9:30 p.m.: Departure.
3 Nights/ 4 Days Schedule:
Day 01 & 02: same as above
Day 03:
9:30 a.m.: (Option 1) Boat Excursion to Amattari Ghat followed by a full day Nature Trek to the Churia Hills. Pack lunch enroute and return by landrover / jeep.
9:30 am: (Option 2) Visit a local village to see and learn about the people of Chitwan. Return to camp.
1:00 p.m.: Lunch.
3:30 p.m.: Boat excursion to Amaltari Ghat and return by jeep / landrover.
8:00 p.m.: Dinner.
Day 04:
5:30 a.m.: Wake up call followed by tea/coffee.
6:00 a.m.: Bird watching / Elephant Safari / Jungle walk.
8:00 a.m.: Breakfast.
9:30 a.m.: Departure.
Note: We organize tours depending upon your time and suggestions. So can have as short as 2 night 3 days and long can be over 6 nights 7 days.
Our Tour Packages:
Trekking in the Himalayas of India and Nepal requires good health and reasonable physical fitness. Physical capabilities can be enhanced by pre–trek training; hill–walking or stair climbing, jogging 3 miles or cycling 5x a week (minimum). Be sure to work up to your training, especially if it is not already a part of your weekly routine. It is essential to choose a trek that is well within your capabilities.
Easy
Grade 1 involves trekking in the altitudes of about 2500m or less, it is relatively easy walking up to 4/5 hrs/10/12km per day, with the occasional longer walk. These treks can be enjoyed by anyone who leads a reasonably active life.
Moderate
Grade 2 involves some longer walks, and easy to moderate trekking in altitudes between 2200m and 3250m for up to 5/6 hrs/13/14km per day. Some previous hill-walking experience is desirable. Grade 2 may best be described as mild to moderate.
Strenuous
Grade 3 involves moderate trekking to altitudes of 32,00m to 4,000m for up to 7 hrs/15km per day, some pre-trek training is advisable. Hill walking experience, a reasonably fit body and good stamina are essential for these kinds of treks, which are generally longer (minimum 2/3 weeks) and more strenuous (long ascents/descents, steep gradients, rough ground).
Grade 4 involves strenuous trekking in the altitudes predominantly above 4,000m with excursions and pass crossings of between 5,000m and 5700m. Pre-trek training
is essential.
You need to be very fit for these treks, capable of carrying a backpack, possess a fair degree of stamina and familiar with mountain walking. We include treks, which involve river, moraine, glacier and snow crossing in this category.
Trekking Season:
The traditional trekking season in Nepal is from October to May, with October and November generally recognize as having the best weather for trekking. There are four seasons in Nepal. Each season has its distinct attraction to offer. The seasons are classified as follows:
Autumn (September-November)
This season offers excellent weather and tantalizing mountain views. Temperature is moderate, making it a good time for any trekking. The skies are generally clear with outstanding views. Occasionally short storms may dump considerable snow at high altitudes.
Winter (December-February)
The winter, there is usually snow fall only at the higher elevations, but risk winds and colder temperatures generally confine trekking to lower elevations. If you are looking for suitable and incredible scenery. This is a great time to Trek in lower elevations.
Spring (March-May)
Different varieties if wild flowers, specially the rhododendrons make the hillside above 3000 m. a hunting paradise during this season. It is mildly warm at lower elevations and at higher elevation, over 4000m, the Mountain View are excellent while the temperature is quite moderate.
Summer (June-August)
Most of Nepal is affected by the challenging al lower elevations although up high, mountainsides and meadows explode with flowers and lush vegetation there are very few trekkers in Nepal during the Summer, making it a great time to interact with the Nepali people and experience a quieter and less busting time in Nepal.
Day 01: Flight to Kathmandu, regular flight.
Day 02: Landing in Kathmandu. Welcome in the airport by our local correspondent. Transfer to hotel in private bus or taxi. During the afternoon, visit of Swayambhunath sanctuary. Night in hotel.
Day 03: Flight Kathmandu - Lukla, 9,350 feet, trekking to Phakding, 8,760 feet.
Early transfer in private Cav or Van from hotel to airport. Flight in twin-engine aircraft to Lukla, with a superb wiew on Himalaya range. In Lukla, we meet the local team , Sherpas, cook and kitchen-boys, porters). We begin our trekking with a descent to Chutrawa, 8,200 feet, facing the famous peak of Karyalang, 21,920 feet, and the Khumbila, 18,900 feet, the Holy mountain of the protective God of Khumbu valleys. Camp.
Day 04: Phakding - Namche Bazar, 11,280 feet
The footpath will first pass through the small villages of Chumoa and Jorsale, 9,202 feet. Jorsale is the Entry Gate of Sagarmatha National Park. Through pine forests, with nice water-falls, the footpath leads us to the impressive suspension bridge of Namche Bazar, built over the wild river Dudh Khosi. A steep ascent, offering a first glimpse on Mount Everest, brings us to Namche Bazar, main village of High Khumbu. Namche Bazar has a famous open-air market each Saturday, with merchants coming from Tibet with their yaks carrying loads through the high pass of Nangpa La, 18,750 feet asl!. Camp.
Day 05: Namche-Bazar acclimation day.
Day 06: Namche-Bazar - Khumjung, 12,435 feet
To acclimatize smoothly, we just make a two hours walk to Khumjung, after a visit to the Sherpa culture + Everest conquest museum of Namche Bazar. Khumjung is a very old Sherpa village, with two monasteries, where Sir Edmund Hillary, first climber of Mount Everest in 1953 with Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, created a school and a hospital (Kunde). Afternoon rest. Camp.
Day 07: Namche-Bazar - Dole, 13,255 feet
Facing us, Ama Dablam, 22,499 feet, one of the most beautiful peaks of the world, with Matterhorn and Alpamayo (South America). Our footpath goes through the slopes climbing to Khumbila, and reaches our first pass, Mon La, 13,035 feet. Steep descent to Phortse Drangka. We leave the valley going to Everest, we are now in Gokyo valley. Just at the limit of the tree-line, we reach the mountain pasture of Dole, 13,255 feet. Camp.
Day 08: Dole - Machermo, 14,470 feet
The footpath goes through small yak mountain pastures : Khele, Lhabarma, Luza. Wiew on many small waterfalls. Camp at Machermo, facing Kyajo glacier. Afternoon rest.
Day 09: Machermo - Gokyo Lakes, 15,580 feet
Gokyo Lakes, which draw many hinduist pilgrims, will be reached today. Passing through the small hamlet of Pangkhat, the trail offers a superb wiew on Cho Oyu, 26,715 feet, on the Tibet border. After a 3 hours walk, the footpath goes along the three Lakes of Gokyo : Longpongo, Taoche, Dudh Pokhari, standing in the center of a splendid mountains' circus. Camp. Afternoon rest.
Day 10: Ascent of Gokyo Peak, 17,585 feet
Leaving the camp at dawn, we will easily and slowly climb the path going up to Gokyo Peak, higher than Mont-Blanc. From the top, fantastic wiew on the immense Ngozumba glacier, and on 123 different peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Makalu. Back to the camp for a afternoon rest.
Day 11: Gokyo Lakes - Tangna, 16,570 feet
After a short descent to Longpongo lake, all our caravan goes through the glacier of Ngozumpa, on the moraines and screes which hide the ice. We will discover very nice small glacial lakes. Lunch on the other bank of the glacier, by Dragnag. In the afternoon, steep ascent to install our camp by Nyimagawa, just underneath the Cho La pass. Camp.
Day 12: Tangna- Cho La pass, 17,780 feet - Dzonglha, 16,105 feet
A wild stage, beginning by one hour and a half on the steep snowy footpath leading to Cho La pass. From the pass, superb wiew on Dzonglha valley and lake, and on the impressive North face of Jobo Lhaptshan, 21,128 feet. Descent to Dzonglha, with a short and easy walk on the Cho La La glacier. Camp. Afternoon rest.
Day 13: Dzonglha - Lobuche - Gorak Shep, 17,025 feet
Starting from Dzonglha, the footpath follows the hillside till Lobuche, in the Everest valley, close to Khumbu glacier. Wiew on Nuptse, Pumori, Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam. In this mineral scenery, a stony path leads to Gorak Shep, the highest mountain pasture of the valley, with its famous "sand-beach" (SURPRISE !), just underneath our next aim, Kala Pattar. Camp.
Day 14: Gorak Shep - Everest Base Camp, 17,715 feet or Kala Pattar peak, 18,192 feet - Dingpoche, 14,295 feet
From Gorak Shep, we can either ascend Kala Pattar, the classic wiewpoint on Everest from which is taken the famous photo showing Everest, South pass, Lhotse and Nuptse, or hike to Everest Base Camp, near the Ice-Fall. After this ascent of Kala Pattar or this trekking to Base Camp, we come back to Lobuche, and then go down Everest valley till the beautiful village of Dingpoche. Camp.
Day 15: Dinpoche - Chukkung, 15,580 feet
Morning rest in Dingpoche, and a short afternoon hike to Chukkung mountain pastures, standing close to the confluence of four glaciers. Facing us, the impressive South Face of Lhotse, 10,000 feet high. Closer, the Island Peak, our trekking peak. Camp.
Day 16: Chukkung - Pareshaya Gyab (Island peak base camp), 16,800 feet
The path from Chukkung to Pareshaya Gayb goes up on old moraines crests. Installation of Base Camp, setting up of roped parties, and last check-up of the equipment for tomorrow ascent. Afternoon rest. Camp.
Day 17: ascent of Island Peak, 20,305 feet
We leave the camp at night, and climb a easy footpath till the height 18,300 feet. From there, a easy climb through rocks lead to the glacier. The route goes first left on the glacier, avoiding seracs and crevasses, and then turns right till the steep snow slope leading to the summit ridge, climbed with the help of a fixed rope (300 feet climb, gradient 45 degrees). The ridge itself is a classic climb, except a steep part (grade AD) which may require a other fixed rope. From the top of Island Peak (named Imja Tse in Sherpa language), fantastic wiew on the very near faces of Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Descent by the same route to Pareshaya Gyab. Camp.
Day 18: extra day to climb Island Peak
Day 19: Pareshaya Gyab - Chhukung , 13,285 feet
We come back to Chukkung and Dingpoche, and then go down to Shomare, folllowing the Sherpas route in Everest valley. Camp.
Day 20: Chukung Namche Bazar, 11,280 feet
In Pangboche monastery, where was kept for a long time the "Yeti's scalp", we will thank Gods to have allowed us to climb closer to their Altitude Kingdom. After Pangboche, the "mountain pastures footpath" is following the hillside of Ama Dablam's slopes, dominating the canyon of Imja Khola. Travel agencies are unaware of this narrow footpath, snaking through nice forests and pastures, which was rediscovered by one of our groups in 1997. You will just meet there a few Sherpanis looking for firewood, and one sheperd watching over his yaks.
The footpath leads to Tengpoche monastery. The famous buddhist monastery was entirely destroyed by fire in January 1989, and then rebuilt thanks to donations from the whole world buddhist community. The wild mountains surrounding these so worshiped Holy places enlarge the exceptional nature of this site. In the afternoon, we go down through a forest of Himalayan pine-trees and rhododendrons till Phunki bridge (where you will admire prayer wheels driven by a small stream). The footpath goes up to Thashingo, and then follows the hillside till Namche Bazar. Camp.
Day 21: Namche Bazar - Lukla, 9,350 feet
Boosted by all our new red blood cells, we rush down the footpath going to Sagarmatha National Park gate, in Jorsale. Later, Lukla's footpath leads us through the first villages we saw two weeks ago : Gumila, Phakding, Choplung. The high peaks disappear behind the hills. In Lukla, we will pass our last night in tents. Fiesta with all our Nepalese friends will be organized. Camp.
Day 22: Flight Lukla - Kathmandu
With a strong emotion, we leave our friends of the Nepalese team who took care of us during this tour. Flight in twin-engine aircraft to Kathmandu, with a superb wiew on Himalaya range. Transfer to hotel in private bus or taxi. Installation in hotel. Free afternoon to visit Kathmandu, and bargain souvenirs. Night in hotel.
Day 23: International regular flight leaving Kathmandu
Free morning in Kathmandu. In the beginning of the afternoon, we prepare our luggage. By mid-afternoon, transfer in private bus or taxi to Airport. Take-off by the end of the afternoon.
Training:
- Acclimatization trekking : footpaths are wide and safe, built for porters and also for yaks or mules caravans, coming up the high valleys, crossing rivers on impressive suspension bridges. Ascents of Gokyo Peak and Kala Pattar take place on footpaths. Cho La pass : a short and easy walk on the Cho La La glacier.
- The ascent of Island Peak is grade: Alpine PD, though a short steep part of the final ridge should be quoted AD. Starting from Base Camp, height 16,800 feet, a footpath goes up till the height 18,300 feet. From there, a easy climb through rocks lead to the glacier. The route goes first left on the glacier, avoiding seracs and crevasses, and then turns right till the steep snow slope leading to the summit ridge, climbed with the help of a fixed rope (300 feet climb, gradient 45 degrees). The ridge itself is a classic climb, except a steep part (grade AD) which may require a other fixed rope.
ACCOMMODATION
Camping trek means sleeping in tents. On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘A’ shaped. Foam mattress with insulation underneath is provided for sleeping. Clients need to have their own sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. If you wish, you can bring your own ‘Air pillow’.
We have a pool of hotels in Kathmandu under 3 /4 Star categories which we provide to clients in connection to this itinerary, unless it is mentioned otherwise or clients have a special choice. You can check on the description of such hotels through our website.
MEALS & DRINKING WATER
We provide three tasty, plentiful and nutritious meals daily with a variety of local and Western dishes. To start the day, breakfast consists of a choice of porridge, muesli and cereal followed by omelet, fried or scrambled eggs with chapattis or bread. Lunch is generally a selection of salad, cooked vegetable dishes, pasta and traditional breads.
After a long day on the trail, dinner is a hearty 3 course meal - soup, followed by a variety of vegetable, meat, rice and pasta dishes and completed with a simple dessert. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate are also provided at all meals. We use as much fresh produce as possible and special diets are regularly catered for. The leaders are able to maintain very tight controls on health and hygiene in the kitchen with respect to general cleanliness and food preparation and also within the group with respect to personal hygiene. This has allowed us to maintain remarkably high standards of health over many years of trek organization - and good health is vital to an enjoyable and successful trek and climb. All foods are well cooked and vegetables are treated by potassium permanganate or iodine. Boiled water is served for drinking. Antiseptic soaps and potassium or iodine treated water are provided for washing. Special dietary requirements can always be catered for.
LUGGAGE WHILE TREKKING
During trek your main luggage will be carried by porters. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. - a small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek. A trek bag is ideal for your main luggage, plus a small lockable bag for travel clothes or anything that you do not need during trek which you can leave at hotel’s locker room/safe deposit box in Kathmandu for free of charge. Weight allowance at Nepal ’s domestic airlines is 15 Kgs, excess weight is chargeable at USD 1 or more per Kilo depending on sectors.
GROUP LEADER AND CREW
We provide different options concerning leadership in order to match your requirements:
1) Western leader
2) Trained Nepali Trek leader (experienced and knowledgeable)
3) Sherpa Guide (handles the logistics and guides you and your team on the trek)
The Sherpa guide (commonly called Sirdar) will be accompanied by a crew of porters. On camping trek, there will be 2/3 porters for each members.
JOIN A GROUP OR PRIVATE TRIP
Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to join this trip please check our ‘2008/09 departures’ link for availability, dates and price. If you would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people (minimum 1 & maximum 100 at a time).
If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list we are ready to tailor a trip to suit your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to get you on the trip you want, when you want.
GROUP SIZE ON FIXED DEPARTURE TRIP
If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of group varies, minimum no of persons required to operate a trip is 2 the maximum is 12 people.
PERSONAL EXPENSES
On this trek all meals will be provided. You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas) tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places).
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise you to allocate 5 - 10% of the total tour cost as tips.
FLIGHT AND LAND TRANSFERS
First you fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then you take another flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. The starting point of the trek is Jumla. On your return, you shall fly from Jumla to Kathmandu . We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport ( Kathmandu ).
Note: There is a high probability of cancellation of internal flights in remote areas due to bad weather conditions. Hence, we advise you to keep at least one or two day extra in Kathmandu before your flight home.
COMMUNICATION
While trekking in the remote parts, you may not have an access to telephone facility for some days or weeks. However, en route there may be few places where telephone facilities may be available and likely to be working.
If it is crucial for you to keep in contact with your family or others, Annapurna Foothills Treks can provide you a mobile satellite phone (rental charge on request).
TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENT
You will need walking boots, sleeping bag (4 seasons/ -20C rated), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack.
Comprehensive list of equipments will be provided once you book your trip or check
CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT LIST LINK.
GEARS AVAILABLE IN KATHMANDU
It's not necessary to spend a lot of money buying extra equipment and clothing before your trip. Majority of these gears can be bough or hired at reasonable rates in Kathmandu .
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Your typical day begins with a hot cup of tea brought to the tent at about 6 am, followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. After packing all your bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the morning’s walk. All you need to carry is a small day pack containing water bottle, camera, sun cream, hat, rain jacket and a warm jumper, just in case. The porters will carry the rest of your gear for you. After walking for 3-4 hours, we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we arrive at camp in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby villages, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days, we will arrive at camp by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free.
Dinner is usually served between 6 and 7 pm. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and talking with the crew, or perhaps even joining in some singing and dancing, before heading off to the tent for a well-earned sleep.
MEETING AND GREETING IN KATHMANDU
You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a “meeting and greeting” service at airport. You just pass on the Customs and come out of the Terminal building where you will see someone standing with a placard with either ‘Explore Himalaya’ or your name written on it. Our airport representative or tour officer will greet you and welcome you with a garland.
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO
The best seasons to trek in the Jumla region are Autumn (from mid-September till November end) and Spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher everyday. The nights are cold (between -10 C to 5C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 20C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Trekking during the monsoon is not recommended, as the visibility during monsoon is limited. Trekking during the winter is possible; however, it is much colder than Autumn and Spring.
March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling. Please choose the time that is convenient for you.
Jumla Rara region being located in rain shadow area it may be possible to trek during monsoon but domestic flights are often disrupted by heavy monsoon cloud and rain.
PEOPLE AND CULTURE
The main ethnic group in this region is the Thakuri Chhettri. The Thakuris have been residing in the area for many years. In the north part close to the border of Tibet , there are some Sherpas and Tibetans as well. The people of this region are generally open-hearted and friendly.
In this region, both Hinduism and Buddhism are in practice, however, the Hindus dominate the community composition. Here, people dress up similar to the middle hill-inhabitants of Nepal , the culture is same though.
The local economy of this region is based on agriculture, primarily rice, potatoes, buckwheat, beans, barley and wheat. Jumla is one of the highest rice- growing areas in Nepal .
ITINERARY CHANGES
Depending on the prevailing situation, you can modify it to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary.
You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. Sometimes due to bad weather conditions, the flights may be cancelled. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative depending on circumstances.
TREK DURATION
We ensure liability as per indicated itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay extra for Hotels/services incurred in Kathmandu or elsewhere in such cases.
VISA
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Visa is also issued at the entry points. It can be extended at the Department of Immigration, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu . Children under 10 years need not pay any visa fee. People willing to get entry Visa at the air port or any of the land entry points are required to fill a visa form with passport photograph. So, please download form from the link below (visa form) and get ready while you are passing through the immigration Point.
Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries
Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days - US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days - US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency
Tourist Visa Extension
* Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day
* Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January – December).
HEALTH ISSUES
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.
The main health consideration in high altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them in Kathmandu . For your safety, we also carry the ‘Portable Altitude Chamber’ or ‘Gamow Bag’. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and to handle the low oxygen rate.
For your service, we carry a medical kit with standard prescribed medicines along with a users’ manual which you can use upon your own risk. We do not take any medical liability since our staffs are not qualified to prescribe medicines.
If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude area before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly be of help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.
RESCUE / EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu .
INSURANCE
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal . At Explore Himalaya, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible.
As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear strew with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.
TRIP EXTENSIONS
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet , India or Bhutan , whichever appeals more to you.
CARE FOR PORTERS AND STAFF
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. We are the first ever company to supply high-altitude porters with crampons.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
1) It is fundamental you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken only as a guideline. We can not be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties etc. In such cases, Annapurna Foothills Treks shall provide suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Annapurna Foothills Treks shall only be responsible for refunds after deducting the expenses already incurred.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
1) Your booking will be confirmed by email once we have received the deposit of Euros 200 per person (8000m peak deposit is Euros 500) and the signed copy of booking form and contract.
2) If you cancel, the following scale of charges will apply:
DATE OF CANCELLATION (CHARGE INCURRED)
2 months before departure - loss of deposit 25 % (Euro 200) – (Euro 500 for 8000m)
29 days to 2 months before departure – loss of deposit 40%
10 to 28 days before departure – loss of deposit 70 %
Less than 10 days before departure - loss of deposit 100%
BOOKING PROCEDURE
If you still have any queries regarding this trip, please don't hesitate to contact our office staff. We will respond to you within 24 hours. You can book a trip by e-mailing us at info@annapurnatreksexpedition.com or by phone: 977-1-9841579429
Luggage should be restricted to a frameless backpack, which must not weigh more than 12kgs (ideal – 8kg). We recommend a backpack over a suitcase for ease of transportation.
- Passport/Tickets/Vaccination Certificates/Spare Passport Photos/Travel Insurance Policy
- Money Belt
Recommended general packing list
- Travel towel (i.e microfibre material)
- Toiletries
- Biodegradable Laundry Soap
- Torch/Spare Batteries
- Sun Hat
- Anti-bacterial hand wipes/santitizer
- Sunglasses
- Camera – film/batteries/memory card/charger
- Travel alarm clock
- Sewing kit
- Reading material/Guide Books
- Padlocks
- Travel pillow
- Swiss army knife
- Travel clothesline
- Universal sink plug/Laundry Soap
- Pens and Notebook
Clothes and Footwear
- Light versatile clothes – cotton and quick drying (dark colours recommended)
- Underwear/socks
- Swimwear
- 2 x long trousers, these should be lightweight and comfortable, preferably cotton.
- 2 x shorts
- Skirt/dress
- Sarong/headscarf (particularly useful if you need to cover up quickly)
- 4 T-Shirts/2 Long-sleeve t-shirts
- Fleece (for cooler evenings)/Thermal underwear for high altitude areas
- 1 smart/casual outfit for evenings out
- 1 Waterproof/windproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes – trainers/sandals
- Hiking boots if any trekking involved
- Flip Flops / Thongs/ Jandals – also for the shower
Recommended First Aid Supplies
- Sunscreen
- Plasters/Bandage/Steri-Strips
- Antiseptic
- Blister pads
- Pain killers
- Diarrhorea remedies
- Moisturiser/after sun cream/lip balm
- Malaria Tablets (if required)
- Any prescription medication required (please inform the tour leader at your pre-departure meeting about these)
- Contact lenses and solution
- Cold/flu decongestants
- Antihistamines
- Travel motion-sickness tablets (i.e. natural ginger tablets)
- Contraceptives
- Mosquito Repellent
- Insect bite cream
- Tampons
- Tweezers
