Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, is located in the easternmost part of Nepal. The Milke Danda Range in eastern Nepal and north of Taplejung is a sanctuary for Nepal's National flower, the rhododendron. The foothills of these mountains get upwards of 3,500 mm of rain per year, triple the amount of annual rainfall of western Nepal. The effect is most visible in the thick, verdant forests and heavy undergrowth. Even at the height of the dry season, the jungle trails are lush and green. The entire trek through the humid forests of the Tamur River basin is an orchid enthusiast's delight!

This trek entails flying to Taplejung and trekking the ridge route to Kangchenjunga south base camp, then backtracking to Tseram to cross over to the northern side.

Total trip duration 27 days Kanchanjunga south and north Base Camp Trek
Hotel in Kathmandu 4 nights
Hotel in Biratnagar 1 night
Trekking duration: 22 days

Starting from:	Kathmandu – Biratnagar - Suketar ( Taplejung)
Ending at:	Suketar – Biratnagar – Kathmandu
Grade:	Challenging
Highest access of the trek:	5,500m. Pangpema  (Kanchanjunga Base Camp)
Culture:	Different Community with majority of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, Tamang, Chhetri, Brahamn & Tibetan.
Mode of trekking tour:	Fully camping trek.
Himalayan sights:	Makalu 8463m, Everest 8848m, Kanchanjunga 8586m, Janakchuli , Dhorma Peak East 6950m, Piyramid peak 7123m. , Pathibhara Himal 6824m, Kiran chuli 7365m , Nepal Peak 7168m, Kumbhakarna 6900m, Chang Himal 6812m, Tapleshikhar, Givigela Chuli 7350m, ongsang peak 7473m, Domo Kang 7420m, Jannu Himal 7710m, Kabru North Peak 7373m, Kabru 7338m, Dzanya peak 6710m, Lashar 6930m, Outlier 7090m, Ramtang 6700m, Yalung Kang 8505m, More attractive snow capped peaks.
Most Attraction of the trek:	Different Community with majority of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, Tamang, Chhetri, Brahamn and Great Himalayan Landscape etc

Cost: Ask for Quotation

Camping Trek

Cost includes:
1. 4 nights hotel in Kathmandu with Bed & Breakfast and one night hotel in Birtnagr
2. Equipment: Trekking tents, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Table and chairs, Mattresses during the trekking
3. National Park fee Makalu & Kanchenjunga area.
4. Food: Food for trekking (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
5. Staff: 1 Guide, 1 Cook, 1 Kitchen & necessary porters
6. Kanchenjungha Trekking permit fee.
7. Local transportation Airport – Hotel – Airport
8. Transportation: Kathmandu-Birtnagar-Taplejung Birtanagar- Kathmandu 
9. Trekking crews of insurance
10. Trekking allowance, food allowance for trekking crews
11. Our service charge

Cost does not includes:
1. Personal equipment for Trekking
2. Personal Insurance for travel to Nepal
3. Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
4. Emergency Rescue evacuation
5. Trekking Sleeping bag
6. Personal expenses
7.  Tipping (Tips)
8. Bar bills & Beverages
9. Departures taxes

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).

Hard    

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: Arrival in Kathmandu
Flying to Kathmandu along the northern border of Nepal on a clear day is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. As you fly, the panoramic view of snow-capped Annapurna mountain range greets your sight.

After Visa formalities complete, you have to come downstairs to collect Luggage and proceed to outside from terminal Building. Please look after your Printed Name and Our Company Signboard Annapurna Foothills Treks & Exp follow them. Meet our Staff and then Transfer to Hotel. Check in at Hotel, free welcome drinks tea/coffee or any cold drinks. Company Managing Director or Manager will meet you and Briefing about the trip. Balance trip Payment should clear if any etc. Free day for relax or explore around the city yourself.

Day 02: Kathmandu
After Breakfast 9 AM your City guide come with vehicles and will brief details your plan for sightseeing tour of 4 Popular UNESCO Heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley. Our first destination is Swoyambhunath. This place offers a majestic view of the entire Kathmandu valley. Stupa of Swoyambhunath epitomizes Buddhism. Your guide will enlighten you with detailed historical and cultural information about the place. After this you will visit Living goddess home and Kathmandu Durbar square. Locally this, Old royal palace area is called Basantapur Area or Hanuman dhoka Durbar Square. Our next sightseeing will be at Boudha nath (the biggest & Largest Buddhist Stupa in the World). In this Area, you will visit Buddhist Monastery and stop for lunch Break. If weather is clear you can see nearest Mountain of Kathmandu- Ganesh Himal from top of Restaurant.
After Lunch, we will visit Hindus temple Pasupatinath and tour for today is finished. It normally takes 5-6 hours tour to visit all these 4 monuments within Kathmandu city. Afternoon free for packing for trek and getting ready.

Day 03: Fly to Biratnagar
From Kathmandu you take a 45 minutes flight to Biratnagar. On reaching Biratnagar, you make preparations for the forthcoming journey. Overnight in hotel Biratnagar. 

Day 04: Fly to Suketar & trek to Lali Kharka [2220m]
You take a short flight (30-40 minute) to Suketar. Soon after refreshment, you head to Lali Kharka with the trekking crew. On the trails, you walk by rich pastures and pristine settlements. After several descents you arrive at Lali Kharka.
 
Day 05: Trek to Keswa [2100m]
As you traverse along the steep route to Pokora village, you see terraced farmland soon after crossing a suspension bridge above the Phawa Khola. The route further leads to Kunjari where you halt for lunch. After lunch, you continue following the trekking trail. You pass through dense forests and quaint villages, as you progress along the trail. On skirting along a gently sloping mountain path, after trekking for 5-6 hours, you reach Tambawa and later Bhanjyang where you spot several teahouses. Take in the grandiose sight of Kanchenjunga glowing against the late afternoon sun.

Day 06: Trek to Mamanke [2000m]
Leaving behind the terraced fields of Keswa, you follow an adventurous route leading to Nandeva Khola. After crossing the river, you make your way through the glaciated mountain passes. Further ahead, the route winds through dense forest and the village of Loppoding. You come across shady areas where you can rest for a while after strenuous trekking. The sinuous trail then takes you to the right bank of the Kabeli Khola. After a while, terraced fields reappear and the village of Anpan comes into picture. You continue ascending till you reach Ponpe Dhara. There are shady spots on the way where you can pause for a brief rest. As you proceed along the trail, terraced fields stretch before you along the crest of the ridge. There is a rest area where you can pause and take in the fascinating sight of Mt Jannu. You further continue treading along the winding descent and pass through several hamlets and terraced fields along Khangwa Khola. You cross a suspension bridge and continue descending the undulating mountain passes till you reach the village of Mamankhe. 

Day 07: Trek to Yamphudin [1650m]
Beginning with an easy climb, the walk to Yamphudin is along a trail which contours the hillside above the Kabeli Khola. You cross the ridges and stream beds that make up the valley sides and the trail eventually becomes level with the river a couple of hours before Yamphudin. Along the way, you can stop to bathe in one of the many clear pools in this beautiful river. It is a truly idyllic spot and after lunch by the river, you complete the day's walk at Yamphudin. Yamphudin is the most remote settlement in this area and the last habitation you will see until you reach Gunsa. Needless to say, it is a charming place tucked away beneath the ridge of the Deurali Danda, which you will cross next.

Day 08: Trek to Lamite jungle camp [2920m]
Beyond Yamphudin, the trail ascends a steep spur before dropping again to cross the Omje Khola. Walking through beautiful and dense forest, you stop for lunch in a meadow atop this spur from where you get fine views of the valley beyond Yamphudin to the south and of the Omje Khola Valley and Deurali Danda to the north. A steep descent to the river brings you to a clearing in the Lamite forest.

Day 09: Trek to Torontan [3080m]
From your campsite you ascend steeply for 3 hours through dense forest to the crest of the Deurali Danda. From the top, Mt Jannu is clearly visible and definitely closer. After crossing the pass, you descend across some fairly steep and exposed scree slopes before re-entering the forest, where you will halt for lunch. After lunch, a steep descent takes us down into the valley of the Simbua Khola and after crossing an interesting wooden bridge, you arrive at Torontan.

Day 10: Trek to Tseram [3750m]
This morning you follow the right bank of the river, passing through pine and rhododendron forests. The valley climbs steeply and as the day progresses, the trees become sparser and more stunted, giving us glimpses of the snow-capped giants ahead and of the massive snout of the Yalung Glacier. Just before Tseram, the towering heights of Kabru and Rathong start to peep over the moraine. The night-time temperature plummets at Tseram which reminds you that you are at a great height.

Day 11: Trek to Ramche [4360m]
Today you walk a relatively short distance to Ramche which is situated on a broad, flat ablation zone. The scenery is magnificent as you ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier and into a series of ablation valleys. A frozen lake, crystal clear streams and magnificent views of Kokthan, Rathong and Kabru are the highlights of the walk into Ramche.

Day 12: Ramche – Exploration
Leaving Ramche, you take a packed lunch and set off very early for your first close encounter with Kanchenjunga. Following the valley around its sweeping curve, you are suddenly confronted with the vast southern wall of the mountain. The ridge forms a cirque which is over 15 kms long and not less than 7500 m high. Along this ridge lie the three main summits of Mt Kanchenjunga at 8420m, 8586m, and 8474m. The sight is truly breathtaking. Proceeding further towards Oktang [4630m], you may then descend onto the glacier and cross it to a point below Talu from where you can see all the mountains of the area in panorama. Especially impressive is the eastern part of Kumbhakarna Glacier, flowing from the east face of Jannu [Kumbhakarna being the local name for Jannu]. You then return to Ramche.
 
Day 13: Trekking beyond the Mirgin La [4663m]
Leaving Ramche, you trek down the valley, passing the small settlement of Lapsang, before turning off towards the Mirgin La - the pass you must cross in order to reach Gunsa and the north side of Kanchenjunga. As you descend from the Mirgin La, the views, in particular of Mt Jannu, are simply magnificent.

Day 14: Trek to Gunsa [3475m]
After a steep descent you approach the Lamba Sumba Kharka, from where there are more splendid views of the awesome south-west face of Jannu. From here, the going is easy, descending on an excellent trail, you reach the village of Gunsa. Gunsa is a Tibetan village with a tiny gompa and prayer flags fluttering from the wooden houses. It comes as a welcome sight after the rigorous walking of the previous days and provides an excellent opportunity to visit a local hostelry and sample the tongba [alcoholic beverage fermented out of millet].

Day 15: Trek to Khambachen [4040m]
The trail ascends gently through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, passing many mani walls and chortens. You stop for lunch by the river at Rampak Kharka. After lunch there is a steep climb before descending to the summer village of Khambachen. The views of Mt Jannu or Kumbhakarna from here are excellent.

Day 16: Trek to Lhonak [4790m]
The trek up to Lhonak via Ramtang village is not too strenuous and despite the increase in altitude, you are able to walk on easily, enjoying the breathtaking views of the valley and mountain peaks. Your lunch stop is at Ramtang, from where the incredible fluted summit of Wedge Peak first becomes visible. During the afternoon Nepal Peak, the Twins, Mera and the White Wave all come into view. Then you arrive at Lhonak, situated high above the Kanchenjunga Glacier opposite Wedge Peak.
Day 17: Trek to Pang Pema [5140m]
A leisurely 3 hours walk from Lhonak takes you up to Pang Pema. The trail follows the moraine before finally reaching Pang Pema, the North Face Base Camp, which is in a sheltered spot, directly opposite the towering north face of Kanchenjunga. This is one of the most spectacular places in the world and is a fitting climax to this unique trek.
 
Day 18: Pang Pema rest day
Today is a rest day, but for the more energetic ones, there are several diversions lined up for the day. One is to ascend the lower slopes of Drohmo for panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and its adjoining peaks. Another possibility is to continue up the increasingly difficult terrain on the right flank of the glaciers for alternative views of the more remote peaks around the Jongsang La Pass.

Day 19 & 20: Retreat trek to Gunsa [3430m]
For the next 2 days you retrace your steps to Gunsa, passing through Ramtang and Khambachen en-route.

Day 21: Trek to Kyapra [2300m]
From Gunsa, you take the route out of the mountains that follows the beautiful Gunsa and Tamur Kholas. The trail passes through spectacular forests of rhododendron, conifer, birch and oak. The valley sides here are steep and the trail follows the river as it cascades downwards. You pass through Kyapra, the last of the Tibetan villages, and an hour or so further on, you reach a spot called Tang. 

Day 22: Trek to Sakathum [1600m]
Heading for the village of Sakathum, your route follows an undulating trail for the first couple of hours until you reach Amjilasa. From here, there is a long steep descent from which you can see the Gunsa Khola Valley stretched out before you. You then reach Sakathum.

Day 23: Trek to Chirwa [1180m]
Leaving Sakathum, you head to Chirwa. En route you meet the confluence of two rivers, Simbua Khola and Gunsa Khola. At this point you get to witness the most magnificent view of the two rivers uniting into Tamur Koshi. On following the trail along Tamur Khola, many other small tributary streams come your way. After trekking for about 4-5 hours you enter into the pristine village of Chirwa.

Day 24: Trek to Phurumba
The route further leads to cultivated land and rich pastures. On reaching Mitlung, you halt for a healthy lunch. Then the trail zigzags through the path of steep stones. After climbing for about 4 hours you come to the valley of Phurumba. 

Day 25: Trek to Taplejung - Suketar [2300m]
As you leave the valley, you continue ascending along the ridge for about 3 hours to Taplejung village. You can wander around the village observing the villagers getting along with their daily routine. As Nepalese folks are generally friendly, chances are you may get invited to a few village homes .Thereafter, after leisurely ascent for about 2 hours, you finally reach the airstrip at Suketar where you conclude the trip of the day.

Day 26: Flight to Kathmandu via Biratnagar
You fly back to Biratnagar and then take a connecting flight to Kathmandu. You will be transferred to the hotel upon arrival.

Day 27: Depart Kathmandu
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. (On the other hand, if you prefer to stay longer, you can go for short tours such as game drive at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, and welcome for extra trip etc- ask us).
Contact us at info@annapurnatreksexpedition.com

TREK TYPE
Camping trek (no lodge available)
Includes Guide, Cook, Sherpas, Kitchen boys and porters   All meals and tents

ACCOMMODATION
Camping trek means sleeping in tents. On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘north face. 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 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) Trained Nepali Trek leader (experienced and knowledgeable)
2) 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
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
From Kathmandu, you take a 45 minutes flight to Biratnagar and then you take another short 30-40 minute flight from Biratnagar to Suketar. The starting point of the trek is Suketar. On your return, you shall fly from Suketar to Biratnagar. You can choose between flying or driving back from Biratnagar to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport (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..
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 ‘Annapurna Foothills Treks’ 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 Kanchenjunga 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 30C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Trekking during the monsoon and winter is not recommended; as the visibility during monsoon is limited, upper high passes are covered with snow during winter.
March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling. Please choose the time that is convenient for you.

PEOPLE AND CULTURE
The majority of people in the Kanchenjunga region are the Tibeto-Mongoloid ‘Rais’ and ‘Limbus’, commonly known as Kirats. They highly dominate the region in the east of the Arun River and a few live elsewhere.  It is believed that they came to Nepal from somewhere in the borders of Tibet and Burma. However, according to their own tradition, they believe to have come to Nepal from the north.
The Rais and Limbus are very peace loving people, shy and deeply religious. Their religion practices, language and clothing are similar to the people of middle hills and also similar to highland people like Sherpas and Chhettris. Limbu men wear a distinctive tall topi, a Nepalese cap that is much more colourful than the ones worn by other Nepalese. A noteworthy part of the Limbu culture is the drink tongba, made of fermented millet seeds and boiling water.
At the higher altitude of the northern part of Kanchenjunga region live the Sherpas, who came to Nepal from Tibet, more than four hundred years ago.
At the southern lower part of the Kanchenjunga region live other ethnic groups like Tibetans, Magars, Tamangs, Newars including the Brahmins and Chhettris.
Most of the people in this region are engaged in farming and livestock rearing. The other major means of livelihood here are cardamom farming and tourism.

ITINERARY CHANGES
The itineraries for each trip should be taken as a guideline only. 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. 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 an 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. They have little experienced about of First Aid.
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 Annapurna Foothills Treks , 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.

BOOKING CONDITIONS
1) It is a fundamental condition that you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken as a guideline only. We cannot 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 be responsible for providing suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Explore Himalaya shall be only responsible for refund after deducting expenses already incurred.
2) Your booking will be confirmed by email once we have received the deposit of Euros 200 and the signed copy of booking form and contract.

3) If you cancel your trip, the following scale of charges will apply:
2 months before departure loss of deposit ( Euros 200) 30%
29 days to 2 months before departure loss of deposit ( Euros 200) 50% 
10 to 28 days before departure loss of deposit ( Euros 200) 70%
less than 10 days before departure total loss your deposit (200) 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