- Overview
- Cost
- Sickness
- Next Trip
- Grade
- Itinerary
- Information
- Equipment List
This mainly low altitude trek is centered on the Arun Valley, in eastern Nepal. The sub-tropical valley floor of the mighty Arun River is in places densely forested, contrasting with the terraced slopes higher up, which are farmed by villagers of diverse tribal groups. High pastures typify the upper slopes, which border on the Makalu-Barun National Park, an important conservation area for many threatened species.
Makalu Base Camp Trekking in Himalaya
Total Trip duration 24 Days
Hotel in Kathmandu 4 nights
Trekking duration 20 Days
| Starting from: | Kathmandu – Tumlingtar |
| Ending at: | Tumlingtar – Kathmandu |
| Grade: | Challenging |
| Highest access of the trek: | 5358M Makalu hiking |
| Culture: |
Different Community with majority of Sherpa, Tamang, Chhetri, Brahamn & Tibetan. |
| Mode of trekking tour: | Fully camping trek. |
| Himalayan sights: | Everest 8848m, Lhotse 8516m, Makalu I 8463m, Makalu II 7660m, Peak 38- 7591m, Pumori, Lhotse Shar 8410m, Barunste 7145m, Chamlan 7319m, Kanchanjung 8586m, Jannu Himal 7710m & More attractive snow caped peaks etc. |
| Most Attraction of the trek: | Different Community with majority of Sherpa, Tamang, Chhetri, Brahamn and Great Himalayan Landscape etc. |
| Lake | Pach Pokhari (lake) and Honku Pokhari (lake) |
Cost: Ask for Quotation
Camping Trek
Cost Includes:
1. 4 nights hotel in Kathmandu with Bed & Breakfast.
2. Makalu Area Trekking permit fee.
3. Equipment: Trekking tents, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Table and chairs, Mattresses during the trekking & National Park fee Makalu permit
4. Food: Food for trekking (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
5. Staff: 1 Guide, 1 Cook, 1 Sherpa group size minim 4 1 Kitchen & necessary porters
6. Local transportation Airport – Hotel – Airport
7. Transportation: By plane Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu
8. Trekking crews of insurance
9. Trekking allowance, food allowance for trekking crews
10. 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
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
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: 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 Kathmandu -Tumlingtar [460m] & trek to Khandbari [1040m]
We take an hour flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, from where our trek commences. From Tumlingtar, we walk north towards Khandbari after lunch. We begin walking on a plateau for about 45 minutes after which the trek starts climbing gradually for approx 3 hrs to reach Khandbari camp above the village on large grassy fields.
Day 04: Trek to Fururu [1900m]
Leaving Khandbari, continuing along the trail which passes a ridge, we walk a short distance to reach the settlement of Mani Bhanjyang (1100 m). We continue through fields, bamboo groves, big rocks and climb a short distance to reach the Tamang village of Bhotebas (1740m). Beyond the village, the cultivated fields disappear as the trail climbs through trees to a pass at 1850 meters that offers spectacular views of Chamlang, Makalu and Jaljale Himal. We then descend a bit to the next ridge, and then follow the crest as it makes some ups and downs through a rhododendron forest to Chilchela (1830m), with a tea shop and few houses inhabited by Gurungs. We follow along the ridge to the small settlements of Kuwa Pani (1910m) and Sakurati Majuwa (1860m). Just past a mani wall, the trail leads up to a campsite. The lower trail heads to the village of Fururu, situated below the ridge at 1900 meters.
Day 05: Trek to Num [1490m]
From Fururu, we move back to the ridge at 1960 meters and trek through forests of huge rhododendrons just below the ridge line to a mani wall and a dirty pond. We continue along the ridge past a small stream to a single Sherpa house and tea shop. This is Mure, a spread-out village at 1980 meters that is inhabited by both Sherpas and Rais.
Below Mure, the route cuts across the ridge, then makes a tedious descent on a rocky eroded trail to some stone steps and a final walk to Num (1490m). Num is situated on the ridge above an S-shaped bend in the Arun River. On the opposite side of the Arun is the village of Sedua.
Day 06: Trek to Sedua [1460m]
We continue along the trail descending steeply from Num through the corn fields of Lumbang. Below the village the trail drops very steeply through a jungle to a suspension bridge over the Arun River (660 m). From the bridge we climb steeply to a primitive tea shop, then through corn and buckwheat field. Moving along the rocky path and tiny terraces planted with corn and barley, we make a long, steep, rough climb to Sedua (1460m).
Day 07: Trek to Tashi gaon [2070m]
Leaving Sedua, we make a gradual climb high above the Kasuwa Khola to Gyang (1770m). Climbing past the school at Gyang, it is a gentle walk through terraced fields and forested areas to Hindrungma village, and on to Rupisa. En route, we cross meadows and several streams, and then climb to the Sherpa village of Tashi Gaon, the last permanent settlement in the valley.
Day 08: Trek to Kauma [3470m]
We climb over the ridge and ascend through forests to a stream and onto a ridge where there is a small campsite. The trail levels out, and then climbs to a shepherd’s hut called Chipla atop another ridge. We climb past two small streams, then switchback up the ridge in forests to a kharka at 2900 meters and up to a saddle and Unshisha, a tiny meadow at approx 330 meters. Here the trail joins the ridge that separates the Iswa and Kasuwa drainages. The slope gets steeper and becomes a series of moss-covered stone stairs to Dhara Kharka, a meadow atop the ridge. We then move over a hillock and descend a bit to reach Kauma (3470 m).
Day 09: Trek to Mumbuk [3570m]
Today leaving Kauma, we climb on steep switchbacks for a while. We then climb less steeply through rhododendron forests to the top of the ridge, with a large mani wall adorned with prayer flags. From here, we get superb views of Chamlang, Peak 6 and Peak 7.
Following the ridge for a while, we ascend a stone staircase. After a few false summits the trail veers left off the crest to a small lake. We then climb gently up a shallow rocky gully to the Kike La (4127 m). From the pass, we descend to another lake, then ascend steeply through large boulders to the Tutu La. We continue descending about 150 meters into sparse rhododendron forests to a level area. The final descent is through a forest of firs and rhododendrons to Mumbuk (3570 m). Mumbuk is a forest camp, on a grassy slope about 100 meters above a small stream, with views of snow peaks through the trees.
Day 10: Trek to Nhe Kharka [3000m]
From Mumbuk, we descend a steep gully with a stream for about 500 meters. We then move left through fir forests, along the flank of the Barun Valley. Moving along ill-defined trail, we cross a 200-meter-long slide area, and then follow the river to a kharka. Moving through forests of birch and scrub rhododendron, finally crossing to the north side of the Barun Khola to reach Nhe Yang le Kharka (3300 m). There is a small gompa at the south side of the valley that offers great mountain views in all directions.
Day 11: Trek to Sherson [4615m]
Beyond the Nhe Kharka, we follow the north bank of the Barun Khola for a while. We then cross a small wooden bridge before the river turns northward. The Barun Valley makes a huge S-shaped curve and the walls rise almost vertically 1500 to 2000 meters above the river, but the trail climbs gently as we approach Ripok Kharka. Still on the north side of the Barun, the trail turns westward and leaves the rhododendron forests for alpine tundra. Above Ripok Kharka, the route crosses a rocky crest with a few goths, and then ascends alongside a moraine formed by the Barun Glacier. There are excellent views of Pyramid Peak, Peak 4, Chamlang, Peak 3 and Peak 5, but Makalu is not yet visible.
As we pass a ridge the glacier turns slightly north. We enter an alluvial valley and Makalu pops into view just before Sherson (4615 m). Sherson is somewhat sheltered, but still is a very cold spot. It is a long trek today of approx 8 hours.
Day 12: Trek to Makalu Base camp [5000m]
From Sherson, we stay to the right in a gully on the east side of the valley. It is gradual descent to a minor pass about 100 meters above Makalu Base Camp. We then descend to a stream, cross on boulders to the base camp on the west bank of the river. From here we get terrific views of the south face of Makalu. The large buttress of the south face rises across from base camp. An ascent of this buttress yields views of Peak 6, 7 and Baruntse (7220 m); Everest and Lhotse complete the panorama.
Day 13: Rest day at the Base Camp
Today is a rest day for acclimatization and exploration.
Day 14: Trek to Nhe Kharka [3000m]
Today we retrace our steps down the Barun Valley towards Nhe Kharka.
Day 15: Trek to Mumbuk [3570m]
From Nhe Kharka, we continue descending through the forests to Mumbuk. From
here we get beautiful sunset views of Makalu and Chamlang.
Day 16: Trek to Kauma [3470m]
Leaving Mumbuk, we trek across the Shipton La and descend to Kauma.
Day 17: Trek to Tashi Gaon [2070m]
Today we make a long steep descent back to Tashi Gaon. At Tashi Gaon we spend the rest of the day relaxing in order to recover from the high altitude.
Day 18: Trek to Balung [760m]
We descend the Kasuwa Khola Valley back to Sedua, then turn south down the west bank of the Arun River. From Sedua, we follow a trail that descends gently to Mulgaon, and then drop steeply on a rocky trail through fields of corn and barley to the Ipsuwa Khola, crossing it on a suspension bridge at 760 meters elevation.
The route now enters the hot bottom lands of the Arun Valley. Most of the settlements in this area are temporary settlements used by Rai and Chettri farmers who live in villages high on the hillside above. Passing the villages, we continue along the trail through rocky fields to Balung (760 m).
Day 19: Trek to Pukuwa [550m]
We continue through temporary farming settlements to the spread-out Rai village of Walung (880m). The trail descends to the Apsawa Khola and crossing it on a suspension bridge we climb steeply to Chhayang, a pleasant Rai village with an extensive bamboo-pipe water supply at 800 m.
The trail then crosses a stream at 590m and makes some ups and downs to reach Parangbu, a delightful camping spot among rice fields on the banks of the Arun River. We continue through forests and pass several small streams to reach Pukuwa (550m).
Day 20: Trek to Bumling [370m]
The trail now follows a route through forests and some spectacular high and exposed narrow tracks as it climbs over rocky ridges. The route eventually enters a region of intense valley bottom cultivation, crosses a huge landslide and some more scrub jungle before descending to Tome (520 m).
Below Tome, the Arun Valley becomes wider and more U shaped. The trail climbs over another ridge on a steep, narrow stairway of rock steps. From the top of the ridge at 530m, the trail descends to a delightful camp on the banks of the Sankhuwa Khola (370m), across from the Chhetri village of Bumling.
Day 21: Trek to Tumlingtar [460m]
The trail traverses the fields of lower Bumling, then climbs over a ridge and descends to the Inkhuwa Khola, crossing it on a rickety wooden cantilever bridge. The trail follows the river downstream to its confluence with the Arun. It then follows the Arun downstream, crossing it on a large suspension bridge.
Now following the east bank of the Arun, the route passes through Chyawabesi before making a short climb back to the Tumlingtar plateau. It is a few km of completely level walking to the airstrip.
Day 22: Fly to Kathmandu
From Pokhara you can either fly or drive back to Kathmandu.
Day 23: Kathmandu
Free day for shoppind and relax day
Day 24: 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 wildlife Safari at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking, etc.- ask us.
TREK TYPE
Camping trek (no lodge available)
Includes Guide, Cook, Sherpa, Kitchen boy 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 ‘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) 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
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
The starting point of the trek is Tumlingtar, which is connected by a little less than an hour’s flight from Kathmandu. On your return, you shall take a flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport (Kathmandu).
COMMUNICATION
While trekking 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).
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Each 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 ‘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 Makalu 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 -15 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 and 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
Makalu region is blessed with an incredible diversity of natural beauty and culture. Some 32,000 people of ethnically diverse background live in this region. The Sherpas, originally from Tibet, live at higher elevations. They follow Buddhist traditions similar to Tibetans. In lower elevations live a handful of other hill tribes including Tamangs, Magars, Gurungs, Newars, Brahmins, Chhetris, Bhotias and other occupational castes. Both Hinduism and Buddhism are in practice in this region.
This region is culturally rich but economically poor and isolated. People heavily depend upon forest resources for food, fuel, housing materials, animal fodder, fertilizers, medicines and other creative uses. People of this region are also involved in making home made products by utilizing local resources. Some of the products are clothing spun from allo (nettles), paper made from Lokta (danphe bark), and countless items made from bamboo including furniture, containers, baskets, musical instruments, raincoats, and aqueducts. Many seasonally migrate to other areas to supplement their income through trade or wage-earning jobs.
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. 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, Maitigar Mandala, 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 ‘hyperbaric 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 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, Annapurna foothills Treks 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
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
