Ba-Yul, the hidden land of Dolpo, was first settled by Rokpa farmers and Drokpa nomads from Tibet in the 10th century. It is one of the highest inhabited places on earth, with scattered fortress-like villages and monasteries nestling amongst mountains of stark, ascetic beauty. Though part of Nepal today, Dolpo remains culturally and economically firmly tied to Tibet, where the people of this desolate area are cut off from their southern neighbors by snow-covered passes for much of the year. This is one of the most fascinating and difficult country to travel.

Most of Dolpo is protected by Shey Phoksumdo National Park. It is bounded in the east and south by Dhaulagiri and Churen Himal ranges and in the west by the Jumla district. Dolpo has been bypassed by development and until recently by tourism. Although a few Anthropologists and geographers had explored the region, the entire district was closed to foreigners until 1989, when the southern parts of Dolpo were opened to organized trekking groups.

Peter Matthiessen's ‘The snow leopard’ and David Snellgrove's ‘Himalayan Pilgrimage’ have contributed to the mystique and attraction of Dolpo. Both writers visited the Shey Gompa, to the north of the Phoksumdo Lake, in inner Dolpo. This is the goal of most trekkers but this Dolpo trek will take you even further into this mysterious land…

Dolpo is a Bon-pro country, where people practice a shamanistic religion predating Tibetan Buddhism.

Much of Bon-po symbolism is the opposite of Buddhist practice. You should walk to the right of ancient mud chortens, which are inscribed with swastikas with their arms pointing in the opposite direction to the Buddhist chant of "om mani padme hum", the Bon-pos chant 'om ma tri mu ye sa le du", in Tibetan this translates as "in clarity unite'.

Upper Dolpo Trekking in Nepal
Total Trip duration 27 Days
Hotel in Kathmandu 4 nights
Hotel in Nepalganja 1 night
Hotel in Pokhara 1 night
Trekking duration: 22 days

Starting from:	Kathmandu - Napalgunj - Jumla flight from Kathmandu
Ending at:	Jomsom  (By Flight Jomsom - Pokhara)
Grade:	Challenging
Highest access of the trek:	Kagmara La Pass 5100m.
Culture:	Different Community with majority of Gurungs, Magars, Chhetri, Brahamn.
Mode of trekking tour:	Fully camping trek.
Himalayan sights:	Sisne Himal 5849m, Api Himal 7132m, Api West 7100m, , Saipal 7031m,, Rakshya Uda 6593m, Kandey Himchuli 6227m, Buraburi 5387m, Tsokalpo Khang 6556m, Wedge peak 6139m. Kangchune 6443m, Bijala Himchuli 6386m, Paltathumba 6157m, Milch Berg 5992m, Hanging Peak 6500m, Kang Peak 6224m, Yaja Peak 5962m. And Dhaulagri rage.
Most Attraction of the trek:	Different Community with majority of Gurungs, Magars, Chhetri, Brahamn, Tibetan and Great Himalayan scenery etc.
Lakes:	Rara Lake 3600m, Dhauli Lake 3200m, Phoksundo Lake 3600m

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 Upper Dolpo Special Permit.
4. Food: Food for trekking (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
5. Staff: 1 Guide, 1 Cook, 1 Kitchen & necessary porters
6. Airfare Kathmandu - Nepaljunj - Juphal - Nepaljunj- Kathmandu.
7. Local transportation Airport – Hotel – Airport
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

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 Nepalganj
We fly from Kathmandu to Nepalganj, which lies in the southwest part of the Terai, right on the border to India. After checking into our hotel we might visit the Bageshwari Mandir, a temple to honour Goddess Kali. Nepalganj is known for its local bazaars, which have goods with cheap price rates. Here, not only do we see people from all over Nepal, but also people from Tibet and India; they all come here for trade.

Day 04: Fly to Juphal [2500m], Trek to Dunai [2100m]
We take an early morning flight to Juphal. Dolpo flights are always scheduled early in the morning. This is because high winds in the Thulo Bheri Valley begin around 10 am, making later flights impossible. Once we arrive at Juphal (2500m), we start out on the short walk from Juphal to Dunai. We walk downhill through meadows and past a few houses to the small hotels at Kala Gaura (2090m). From here we follow the river trail upstream to Dunai. We camp near Dunai and explore this bustling little hill town for the rest of the afternoon.

Day 05: Trek to Chepka [2670m]
We start trekking from Dunai, cross the big steel suspension bridge and turn west, following the trail past the hospital, and then it's a level walk along the bank of the Thulo Bheri to its confluence with the Suli Gaad at 2070m. We follow the new trail north up the east bank of the Suli Gaad to a collection of teashops run by the wives of army personnel in Dunai. Another hour of walking takes us to Kal Rupi and then on to Raktang (2260m). We cross to the west bank and trek past numerous goths and horse pastures, over a ridge to the rough stone houses of Jyalhasa, a wintering spot for the people of Ringmo. We keep walking upstream to another bridge, cross it to the east bank, and make our way past some crude teashops and a bridge over a side stream, the Ankhe Khola, at 2460m. The trail moves up and down through grass and ferns to a trail junction. The fork is the old trail leading to the army and national park post at Ankhe, and on to the old trail that passes the villages of Rahagoan and Parela, high on the ridge above.
These three villages have a strange name connection: Parela (parela means eye-lashes), Rahagoan (raha means eyebrow) and Ankhe (ankha is eye).
The trail Phoksumdo Lake climbs over a ridge at 2710m then descends on a rocky path to Chepka (2670m), which is inhabited by three brothers and consists of collection of interconnected shops, rakshi stalls and lodges. We camp here or at another good spot beside a huge rock in walnut grove about 20 minutes beyond Chepka.

Day 06: Trek to Renje [3010m]
We continue on the new trail, which stays near the river, climbing over a small ridge ,then crossing to the west side to avoid a large ridge and returning to the east side an hour later near a national park camping ground. Alongside the river at 2900m, the trail becomes a collection of rocks and sticks forming a dyke along the river bank. The trail makes several more ups and downs through forests of firs and larches as it continues upstream to a bridge that leads to nine houses comprising the village of Renje on the opposite side of the river at 3010m. We camp at a good camp site here or another about five minutes further on.

Day 07: Trek to Ringmo [2650m]
We follow the Suli Gaad valley, which turns eastward and becomes even steeper and narrower. We then climb over a ridge and descends to a wooden bridge then continue along the ups and downs along the valley floor to the confluence of the Suli Gaad with the Pungmo Khola. From here the trail to Phoksumdo Lake and Shey gompa follows the west bank of the river. We climb through a forest of big cedar to a good camp site and then on to Palam (3710m), a winter settlement used by the people of Ringmo village. The houses are almost buried in the sandy soil. The entrance station for Shey Phoksumdo National Park is at the south end of the village. After our park entrance ticket is examined, we may be subjected to a baggage inspection-ostensibly for drugs and stolen art objects. It's very peculiar formality in this remote locale.
We continue on the route, which switchbacks steeply on a sandy trail through open country to an elevation of 3300m, then we start up another steep set of dusty switchbacks to a ridge at 3780m. From the ridge there are distant views of a spectacular 200m -high waterfall, the highest in Nepal. The trail makes a steep descent in birch forests to the upper reaches of the brilliantly clear, rushing waters of the Phoksumdo Khola. Then we climb gently to Ringmo village, a picturesque settlement of flat-roofed stone houses with lots of mud -plastered chortens and maniwalls. Just below Ringmo, we cross a bridge and follow a trail north to the ranger station at Phoksumdo Lake (3730). We continue to the shores of the lake near the point where the Phoksumdo Khola flows out of the lake. There are national park camping grounds on both sides of the river on the south-east shore of the lake. Park rules prohibit us from camping in other places.

Day 08: Rest and exploration
A trail leads from the lakeside through juniper trees to the white Pal Sentan Thasoon Chholing gompa, a ramshackle Bon-po gompa overlooking the lake that is said to have been built 60 generations ago. There are five other private gompas in various houses of small monastic community near the lake. The insides of the temples contain dusty Buddhist paintings and statues, but the trappings also reflect the animistic elements of the Bon-po religion, so some of the chapels are reminiscent of an ancient witch's cavern. A donation to the ragtag collection of dirty monks will gain us entrance to the gompas; our Sherpas will be equally fascinated by the strange iconography and practice of the Bon-po religion.

Day 09: Trek to Chunemba [3630m]
From our campsite near Ringmo on the southern end of Phoksumdo Lake, the trail contours on a rocky ledge as it skirts the western lip of the lake. In places it's precariously suspended on a gangway of wood supported on pegs driven into crevices in the rocks. As we cross a stream, look up at the glacier descending from the upper slopes of Kanjeralwa (6612m). We then climb to a crest at 4060m for a spectacular view of the lake with the snowy peaks of Sonam Kang in the background. The trail makes a step and dusty descent through birches and blue pines to the westernmost edge of the lake at 3630m where the Phoksumdo Khola enters. The route now heads west, up along a wide valley. We follow an indistinct trail through thorn bushes and scrub trees, crisscrossing boggy marshes and tributaries of Phoksumdo Khola. We camp in a forest of blue pines at Chunemba, an undeveloped national park camping ground at 3630m.

Day 10: Trek to Lar Tsa [4120m]
We begin the day along the level path that now heads north through a glacial valley. We then cross to the east bank of Phoksumdo Khola. We follow the main valley for another hour to Kang Gompa. We climb steeply from Kang Gompa and stay on the grassy ridge. It's a long climb up the ridge past a few groves of birch trees. There are spectacular mountain views with Shey Shikar (6139m) and Kang Chunne (6443m) dominating the skyline to the west. We continue on a crest at 4200m then the route descends gently on a rocky trail to Lar Tsa, a camp site besides the river at 4120m.
It's possible to continue walking, but we have now ascended more than 500m in a day and should spend the night at Lar tsa for acclimatisation.

Day 11: Trek to Mendok Din [4610m]
We cross a new bridge and climb to the top of a scree slope at 4490m, then make our way up a grassy ridge to a crest at 4640m. We contour and then drop gently into Mendok Ding (flower valley). We again climb alongside a stream to a campsite at 4610m. You are almost certain to spot a herd of blue sheep on the slopes above the camp.

Day 12: Trek to Shey Gompa [4390m]
We continue on the route that follows the upper reaches of the Phoksumdo Khola, then we turn north towards the peak of Riwo Drugdra (Crystal Mountain). There is a choice of trails here; we follow the more scenic pilgrim route across the Sehu La to the west of Crystal Mountain, making a kora (circumambulation) of this sacred peak. The Dolma trail turns north soon after camp while the pilgrim trail starts up a steep scree slope on the opposite side of a stream that flows from the north.
After a long pull to Sehu La (also known as Mendok Ding La) at 5160m the trail descends a scree slope to a grassy meadow besides a stream valley and begins a series of long ascents and descends across ridges in and out of side valleys as it traverses around Crystal Mountain. After a steep, rough climb to a crest at 5010m and another at 4860m, we begin the descent to the Tar valley. Soon after the route reaches grassy slopes, a side trail leads to Tsakang, a gompa said to be 800years that is perched dramatically on the side of a cliff. The final descent is on a wide trail to a campsite in a large meadow near a few huts of nomads at 4310, just below Shey gompa.

Day 13: Rest-Exploration
Cross the river on a log bridge and climb past a big Chorten and a huge field of mani stones to the Shey gompa compound at 4390m. The gompa itself is not large, and there are no artifacts or paintings of note inside. Although the building is said to be 800years old, the wall paintings are relatively recent, probably done in 1970s. The statues on the altar are of Guru Rinpoche, Sakyamuni and Milarepa. The gompa also houses an ancient Tibetan scroll that describes the myth of Crystal Mountain and Shey gompa. According to the inscription, there is a holy lake in a crater among the mountains that surrounds Shey. When a pilgrim makes nine circumambulations of this lake the water turns milky. A sip of this milk and the pilgrim can see Mt Kailash in the distance. The ones, who don’t need a day of rest, can try to find this lake.

Day 14: Trek to Namgung [4430m]
We trek east from Shey gompa and across the 5010m Shey La. Here we turn north and descend before climbing again to Namgung (4430m).

Day 15: Trek to Karang [4050m]
We traverse high above the Namgung Khola to Karang (4050m). It's also possible to descend to Saldang on the banks of the river, but this village is of little interest.

Day 16: Trek to Mugaon [4100m]
We descend to Torak Sumdo (3670m), the confluence of the Namgung and Polang kholas, and cross to the northern bank. We then climb to Yanger gompa at 3750m and trek along the river side valley. We camp at one of the campsites along the side of the stream at about 4100m before Mugaon.

Day 17: Trek to Shimen [4010m]
We continue up the valley to Mugaon and climb towards the Mushi La at 5030m.
Then we descend towards Shimen village, we end the day at a good campsite in pastures above the village at 4010m.

Day 18: Trek to Tinje [4150m]
We drop down to Shimen village at 3870m and make a long trek upriver through Pha (4090m) to Tinje (4150m).

Day 19: Trek to Rakpa [4530m]
We trek past the runway of mysterious Tinje airport to a trail junction at 4130m, where a high route leads to Tarap. We continue southward to a campsite on the banks of the river at Rakpa (4530m).

Day 20: Trek to Chharka [4120m)
We begin our day with a long climb to the Chharka La (4920m). We continue on the trail descending along the side of the valley, then make a big drop into a side valley at 4290m. We then make a long traverse down to the picturesque village of Chharka on the banks of Barbung Kola at 4120m.

Day 21: Trek to Norbulung [4750m]
Another Climb to a crest at 4380m begins this day. We then descend again to a river. We follow the right fork southward, climbing in and out of side valleys on a rough trail. The valley narrows, we then emerge into a big meadow and climb to our campsite at Norbulung (4750m).

Day 22: Sangda Phedi [5460m]
 We begin the day climbing to a yak pasture at Molum Sumna (4860m) and on to a crest at 5130m. We then make a long traverse across meadows to the foot of the Sangda La, then a long, steep final climb to the pass at 5460m. Switchbacks descend down to our camp site by a stream at 5100m.

Day 23: Trek to Sangda [3700m]
We climb to a lower Sangda La at 4990m, then descend through loose shale towards the village of Sangda Ghunsa (4190m). We drop to the Chalung Khola, crossing it at 3750m, and then climb steeply up the opposite bank. A long high traverse leads to a cairn at 4090m, we then come to a set of steep switchbacks descends to a stream at 3580m. We do another climb to the compact settlement of Sangda, were we end a long day at 3700m.

Day 24: Trek to Dhagarjun [3290m]
We climb the hill behind Sangda and spend most of the day making a high traverse, crossing nine ridges to a final crest at 4280m. We then descend into the Kali Gandaki valley, traversing under high cliffs and descending to the large village of Dhagarjun (3290m).

Day 25: Trek to Jhomson [2670m], fly to Pokhara
We climb to a ridge at 3360m and make a final descent on a challenging trail of loose rocks to Jomsom at 2670m. We take an early flight from Jomsom to Pokhara - a fantastic way to round off the trek, flying right along the Kali Gandaki Gorge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. In Pokhara we check into the Hotel, get the dust of the last three weeks washed off and head out for a nice dinner.

Day 26: Drive/Fly Kathmandu
We either take a 35 minutes flight or a six hour drive to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, you can indulge in independent activities of your choice.

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, mountain biking, etc. – ask us.
Contact us at
info@annapurnatreksepedition.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 ‘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 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.

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
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.

FLIGHT AND LAND TRANSFERS
First you fly to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu and then you take another short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. The starting point of the trek is Juphal. On your return, you shall fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. You can choose between flying or driving back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport (Kathmandu).
Note: There is a high probability of cancellation of flights operating between Nepalgunj and Juphal due to bad weather conditions. Hence, we advise you to keep at least one day extra in Kathmandu before your flight home.

CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO
The best seasons to trek in the upper Dolpo 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 and 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. Dolpo 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.
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
Dolpo consists of an ethnic group called Bhotias (with Tibetan origins), Magar, and Gurung. The Dolpo-pa (people of Dolpo) are mongoloid featured people with unique cultural and social traditions. Apart from speaking Tibetan, they speak kaike language which is believed to exist only in Dolpo. They are engaged in farming, sheep herding and small scale business. Agriculture on a large scale is impossible because fertile land is scarce. Historically, the men of Dolpo were salt traders. They used to travel across the great Himalayas with their yaks, horses and zos to bring salt from Tibet.
Marriages in Dolpo are very relaxed in general. Pre-marital and extra-marital sex union is not prejudiced. All the brothers in a family marry a common wife. Marriages can be of any type; by arrangement, capture or elopement.
Their main festival is ‘Losar’ (Tibetan New Year), celebrated in the month of February. Another festival they generally celebrate is ‘Yul-lha’ ceremony which is a ritual to appease the Gods.

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, 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 ‘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 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, 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