Annapurna and Machhapuchhare Base Camps
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Moderately Challenging
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Judy
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14 Nights / 15 Days
- Get away from the crowds of Everest Base Camp and enjoy the beautiful Annapurna region.
- Spend one night at Machhapuchhare Base Camp, and one night at Annapurna Base Camp.
- Enjoy the hot springs at Tatopani on the way down to Pokhara.
- Visit famous Poon Hill for sunrise.
- Relax lakeside in Pokhara and enjoy sundowners with the fabulous view of Phewa Lake and the mountains.
Best Time To Go: March-May and Sept-Nov
Everyone loves a "Two for One" offer! Our Annapurna Sanctuary Trek takes you to two base camps in the Annapurnas - Annapurna Base Camp - popularly known as ABC, and the Machhapuchhare Base Camp, of the sacred "Fishtail" mountain, that has never been summited.
Nestled in the lap of Mt. Annapurna, the awe inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary is considered to be Nepal’s second most popular trekking destination after Everest Base Camp in the Khumbu Region. From your very own 3900 m Annapurna Base Camp in the Sanctuary, you wake up to truly one of the most spectacular views you will ever see!
The trek begins at Phedi after a short drive of 45 minutes from Pokhara and passes through fascinating Gurung villages, forests of flowering rhododendron trees and stunning river valleys set against the awesome backdrop of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. The trek concludes at Nayapul after exploring the Annapurna Sanctuary and many different ridges towards Ghorepani, just below the famous Poon Hill.
The lower maximum altitude of this trek means it is suitable for less experienced high altitude trekkers.
Nestled in the lap of Mt. Annapurna, the awe inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary is considered to be Nepal’s second most popular trekking destination after Everest Base Camp in the Khumbu Region. From your very own 3900 m Annapurna Base Camp in the Sanctuary, you wake up to truly one of the most spectacular views you will ever see!
The trek begins at Phedi after a short drive of 45 minutes from Pokhara and passes through fascinating Gurung villages, forests of flowering rhododendron trees and stunning river valleys set against the awesome backdrop of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. The trek concludes at Nayapul after exploring the Annapurna Sanctuary and many different ridges towards Ghorepani, just below the famous Poon Hill.
The lower maximum altitude of this trek means it is suitable for less experienced high altitude trekkers.
MORE GREAT CHALLENGING TRIPS WITH MHE
When you trek with MHE, you can be assured that we are backed by many years in the business of providing safe and sustainable adventure trips. The staff you deal with in the office, all the way through to the guides and porters on trek, have years of experience in safe and enjoyable trekking behind them. We can advise you on the right gear, the right training, and no question is too crazy for us to answer.
Our trips are designed for your maximum enjoyment and comfort, taking into consideration the environment and conditions, wherever you are. You will find that lodges and facilities higher up are not as luxurious as those in Lukla or Namche Bazaar, and attached bathrooms become just a memory at high elevations.
We use the best available teahouses, with attached bathroom where available. Please remember though that you are in a remote and difficult location, and your expectations should be reduced accordingly.
We believe in sustainable, ethical and responsible tourism. Our guides are all certified and trained, the porters receive above standard wages, and we do not allow them to carry more than 30kg (the international standard set by IPPG as well as the Nepal government). Our crew are all insured, and provided with suitable clothing and equipment.
We support the local economy wherever possible, and do NOT encourage giving any gifts of sweets, pens etc to the charming local children you meet along the trail. If you are really interested to donate something, please discuss with us first.
Our "all inclusive" trip means that you aren't constantly rummaging for money, and you know up front what is included.
Our trips are designed for your maximum enjoyment and comfort, taking into consideration the environment and conditions, wherever you are. You will find that lodges and facilities higher up are not as luxurious as those in Lukla or Namche Bazaar, and attached bathrooms become just a memory at high elevations.
We use the best available teahouses, with attached bathroom where available. Please remember though that you are in a remote and difficult location, and your expectations should be reduced accordingly.
We believe in sustainable, ethical and responsible tourism. Our guides are all certified and trained, the porters receive above standard wages, and we do not allow them to carry more than 30kg (the international standard set by IPPG as well as the Nepal government). Our crew are all insured, and provided with suitable clothing and equipment.
We support the local economy wherever possible, and do NOT encourage giving any gifts of sweets, pens etc to the charming local children you meet along the trail. If you are really interested to donate something, please discuss with us first.
Our "all inclusive" trip means that you aren't constantly rummaging for money, and you know up front what is included.
Dates: March to May, September to November
Trip starts from: Kathmandu, Nepal
No. of days of the trip: 15
No. of trekking days: 13 - includes 2 short drives
Maximum altitude: 3,900 m at Annapurna Base Camp
Trekking Grade: Moderate
Trip starts from: Kathmandu, Nepal
No. of days of the trip: 15
No. of trekking days: 13 - includes 2 short drives
Maximum altitude: 3,900 m at Annapurna Base Camp
Trekking Grade: Moderate
DAY 1: FLY TO KATHMANDU
On arrival in Kathmandu you will be met by our representative and taken to your hotel. If time permits, short sightseeing and exploring will be arranged for you. Overnight at hotel.
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Meals: Welcome Dinner
DAY 2: FLY TO POKHARA, DRIVE TO PHEDI, TREK TO DHAMPUS, 1700M
From the hotel we head to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for the 30 minute flight to Pokhara. It is a sensational flight, with the peaks of the Himalayan Range clearly visible through the right-hand window as we travel westwards. Particularly prominent are Manaslu and the Annapurna range as we approach the landing field at Pokhara.
From Pokhara, we set off immediately by bus to Phedi and begin the trek with a couple of hours' walking, principally uphill, on a long flight of stone steps to the village of Dhampus. The mountain views from here are lovely, but are just a taste of what's still to come.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
From Pokhara, we set off immediately by bus to Phedi and begin the trek with a couple of hours' walking, principally uphill, on a long flight of stone steps to the village of Dhampus. The mountain views from here are lovely, but are just a taste of what's still to come.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 3: TREK TO LANDRUNG, 1550 M
Beyond Dhampus we get our first clear views of the mountains ahead, as we ascend through forest on a trail which is often made up of steep stone steps. Passing through Pothana, we climb to a small pass, at a place called Deorali (which means 'pass'). At this point we are high up on the east side of the Modi Khola, the river which flows out of the Annapurna Sanctuary. We descend all the way down to the river, passing through the picturesque Gurung settlement of Landrung, which offers spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. After crossing a suspension bridge, we camp on the west side of the river.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 4: TREK TO CHHOMRONG, 2040 M
Our route now climbs quite steeply, high above the river, through bamboo forest and isolated farmsteads. The teahouses at Jhinu provide a welcome opportunity to stop for a drink and a rest on this long, hot climb. Ascending further along a treeless ridge we come to Taglung and just a short distance beyond this is Chomrong. From this Gurung village, there is a tremendous view of Annapurna South, as well as impressive views of Machhapuchhare.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 5: TREK to himalaya hotel, 2680 M
After dropping down to the Chomrong Khola on steep stone steps, the trail climbs again, initially through terraced fields and then through a forest of bamboo and rhododendron. Today's walk is always either up or down on steep paths which are often paved. Sometimes there are views of the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhare ahead, but often the forest is too thick to allow more than a tantalizing glimpse. After reaching the village of Khuldigar, we descend a stone staircase to a section of exceptionally thick bamboo forest which leads to the settlement known as "Bamboo Lodge". From here, we climb steeply through bamboo and rhododendron forest, following the trail high above the river to day's end at Himalaya Hotel.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 6: REST DAY FOR ACCLIMATISATION, 2680 M
Today is a rest day and we take it fairly easy in order to give our bodies a chance to acclimatise. There are splendid views to be had from the top of the moraine ridge which lies just behind the lodges.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 7: TREK TO MACHHAPUCHHARE BASE CAMP, 3600 M
Climbing steeply, we soon reach a fire-blackened overhang which has been walled-in to make a small lodge. This place is known as Hinku Cave. The trail rises continually now, as we near the entry to the Sanctuary. Passing the lodges at Deorali and Bagar, we arrive at the level and grassy moraine platform known as Machhapuchhare Base Camp.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 8: TREK TO ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP AND EXPLORE, 3900 M
Another short day today, and a fairly gentle ascent through tranquil meadows brings us to Annapurna South Base Camp. Increasingly impressive views reward us for our efforts as we climb the last steep section before reaching the base camp area. From here there are fantastic views of the south face of Annapurna 1.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 9: TREK TO HIMALAYA HOTEL
Today we retrace our steps as far as Himalaya Hotel.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 10: TREK TO CHHOMRONG, 2040 M
Today we retrace our steps as far as Chomrong.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast lunch and dinner.
DAY 11: TREK TO TATOPANI. ALT 2,650 M
From here we take a beautiful, alternative route back to Pokhara, via Ghorepani. We follow the trail above potato and wheat fields before descending to the village of Khumnu above the Khumnu Khola. After crossing the river, the trail leads steeply uphill to Melanche before continuing through rhododendron forests to Tatopani. There are excellent views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhare from here.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Lodge/Teahouse. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 12: TREK TO GHOREPANI, 2775 M
We trek gently up and down for an hour or so to Banthanti. The trail then steepens, as we climb through rhododendron forest to Deorali, a small pass, before dropping down to the lodges at Ghorepani. At this point we are on the main Annapurna Circuit route and there are likely to be lots of travellers passing through this ridge-top settlement in both directions. Ghorepani literally means "horse water" and was a popular stopping place for the mule trains which plied the route from Pokhara to Jomsom and beyond. The impressive peak which can be seen across the broad valley of the Kali Gandaki to the northwest is Dhaulagiri.
Overnight teahouse/lodge. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight teahouse/lodge. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 13: SUNRISE AT POON HILL (3200 M) THEN TREK TO TIKHEDUNGA, 1540 M
It is a must for those who stay at Ghorepani to make the walk up to the celebrated view point of Poon Hill [3195m], which overlooks the village. Dawn is the best time to go, so our guide will arrange an early wake up call and we crawl out of bed to head up the track by torchlight at first. Arriving at this famous viewpoint we’ll see the first light of dawn illuminating Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak with a surreal pink glow.
We may be able to buy coffee and breakfast from an enterprising local who has carried his produce up to Poon Hill to take advantage of the morning trade. Otherwise, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast, before trekking on to Tikhedhunga.
Our route is downhill and the first couple of hours to Ulleri are through dense forest, passing the occasional lodge in a clearing. Then we have a steep section on steps leading us down to our lodge for the night.
Overnight teahouse/lodge. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
We may be able to buy coffee and breakfast from an enterprising local who has carried his produce up to Poon Hill to take advantage of the morning trade. Otherwise, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast, before trekking on to Tikhedhunga.
Our route is downhill and the first couple of hours to Ulleri are through dense forest, passing the occasional lodge in a clearing. Then we have a steep section on steps leading us down to our lodge for the night.
Overnight teahouse/lodge. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 14: TREK TO NAYAPUL AND DRIVE TO POKHARA
This morning after our last breakfast on the trekking trail we get in a final big stretch of steps (our knees won’t be sad to bid farewell to the ‘Himalayan Stairmaster’) down into Hille and Sudami where it levels out a bit as we start following the Bhurungdi Khola into Birethanti. Just half an hour's walk from Birethanti we arrive at Nayapul, and have a last lunch on the trail. Then we meet up with our van and enjoy the scenery on the hour’s drive back to Pokhara where we bid farewell to our crew and check into our hotel for a welcome shower! We then have the remaining of day free to wander by the lake.
Overnight Hotel. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight Hotel. Included meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 15: FLY POKHARA TO KATHMANDU THEN DEPART NEPAL
After breakfast, take the early flight to Kathmandu where you can transfer to the international terminal for your afternoon flight home.
Meals included: breakfast
Meals included: breakfast
Cost Per Head: TBA
COST INCLUDES:
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- 12 nights accommodation on the trek in tea-lodges on twin sharing basis.
- One night in Kathmandu and one night in Pokhara on twin sharing basis.
- Airport transfers and transportation to and from trek end point.
- Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu round trip flight tickets.
- ALL MEALS on the trek - 12 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, and 12 Dinners.
- Breakfast only in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Drinking water (bottled/purified/boiled) throughout the trek.
- Fully qualified professional trekking guide and assistant guides throughout the trek.
- Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (on a 1:2 ratio)
- All necessary documentation for the trek: trekking permits, TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area ticket.
- All government taxes included.
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- International/Domestic air fare or train fare.
- Visa fees and international airport charges.
- Bar and beverage expenses.
- Unforeseen expenses that demand a change in itinerary like natural forces, changes in weather, road blockages, flight/train cancellations and illness.
- Medical, Travel, or Evacuation insurance.
- Expenses of a personal nature - tips, laundry, satellite or other phone calls.
- Any expense other than mentioned in the inclusion list
PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION TERMS:
Special payment and cancellation terms apply to all our Nepal treks
CANCELLATION:
Special payment and cancellation terms apply to all our Nepal treks
- ₹10,000 deposit Non refundable to secure your place
CANCELLATION:
- Between 60 and 45 days: 15% cancellation incl non refundable deposit
- Between 45 and 30 days: 50% cancellation
- Between 30 days and trip start: 100% cancellation
Gear List and Trekking Tips - Tea House Treks
What we supply for your trek:
• When we have groups of 4+ people we supply a comprehensive first aid kit carried by your guide. For individual trekkers and small groups (less than 4 people) we supply a basic first aid kit carried by your guide
• Your local trek guide and leader of the trekking crew (which depends on group size):
Sherpas and Porters with equipment and clothing (snow gear, warm gear, sleeping gear) and with all accommodation, meals and insurance provided for your crew.
The first things you need:
• Sleeping bag and liner – a 3 or 4 season bag is recommended, depending on your trek
• Down jacket – need for this depends on the season and where you are going
• Kit / duffel bag – required to pack your gear in (suitcases are not suitable)
Please note: Unless you advise us otherwise we will assume you are bringing these items with you. If you need help to buy or rent them, please just let us know, we’re more than happy to help (down jackets and sleeping bags can be rented in Kathmandu).
Other items that we recommend you take on trek:
• Loose comfortable T-Shirts NOT COTTON or long sleeved shirts for sun protection
• Long trousers (for cultural reasons, we request you not to wear tight pants or
shorts. If you really want to wear shorts, please make them loose fitting and long)
• A warm jacket / fleece pullover
• A thermal layer (shirt and pants)
• A water and wind proof layer (jacket and pants)
• Woollen or thermal gloves
• Sun hat and sun glasses
• Woollen or fleece hat
• Scarf / stretchy ‘buff’
• Socks – depending on the season bring either warm, woollen socks or cool, breathable cotton socks
• Comfortable and worn in trekking boots
• Sandals or flip flops for camp
• A comfortable day pack with adjustable waist and shoulder straps
• Personal toiletries - shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, travel towel, etc
• Ziplock bags are handy for convenient leak-proof storage
• Sun block and lip balm
• Dust mask/ scarf / stretchy ‘buff’ for dusty trails
• Personal first aid kit + any personal medications you need to take + water treatment tablets/drops
• Camera, batteries and charger, music, book
• Airtight and waterproof ‘dry bags’ are great for 1) keeping your clothes dry and 2) storing your dirty
laundry separate from clean clothes!
• Sleeping bag liner – either silk, cotton or fleece
• WATER BOTTLES - please be able to carry 2 litres of water and have bottles that can handle boiling/hot water
• HEAD TORCH and spare batteries
• Your sense of humour and adventure!
Note: These days most of these items can be purchased in Kathmandu. There are now several leading brand stores selling their own equipment and there are many stores selling cheap imitations and some well established local stores selling under their own labels. Please ask us if you’d like some advice about where to go to get any gear. If you need to do any shopping for gear, please let us know with enough time to do this before leaving for trek!
What to take with you in your day pack:
Please carry the following in your day pack, as a minimum:
• 2 litres of water (please make sure your water bottles will take boiling/hot water)
• sunscreen, sun glasses, sun hat, lip balm, dust mask / scarf / ‘buff’ to help on dusty trails
• warm fleece or thermal layer and gloves
• water proof layer
• head torch
• hand cleaner
• your camera
• any money you want for snacks/drinks along the trail
• CRITICAL – take any personal medications you require during the day – you will not see your kit bag until evening.
The rest you can put into your kit bag which will be carried by the porters, whom you won’t see until camp in the evening. It’s a great idea to use dry bags (ie airtight/waterproof) in your kit bag to store your dry clothes in to keep them DRY in case it rains and one to put your dirty laundry in (to keep from making everything else in your bag smell bad!). These dry bags are readily available in Kathmandu.
What about gear I want to leave in Kathmandu?
Before departure for your trek you might pack your ‘town clothes’ and anything you don’t want on trek with you and ask your hotel (if you come back to the same hotel) or your guide to store it for you. If you want to do this, then consider bringing or buying a simple bag here for this purpose.
Tea house facilities:
You will share a room on your trek, unless you specifically request a single supplement (a small charge is required to cover the cost of taking an extra room for you). Please note that at peak trekking times a single
room may not be available. Tea houses sometimes have attached bathrooms and hot showers, but the lodge owners may (or may not) charge an extra fee and this can fluctuate depending on demand. So this is not included in the price of your trek. You can simply pay for these if and when you desire them. Tea houses are simple accommodation, not hotels. They are often located in remote areas and getting supplies is expensive and time consuming – you can’t expect 5 star facilities, but what you get will be
for by the friendliness and hospitality of your hosts. They will be doing their best, so please keep your expectations firmly grounded in the reality of where you are.
Food on trek:
You will probably be surprised by the menu items available on a tea house trek! Please bear in mind that all items not locally grown are carried up the trail you walked up and that waste is not often carried back out again. Beer bottles pile up behind many tea houses! Please also consider the energy required to cook different menu items and consider ordering the same food for the group, rather than a different dish for each group member, which will not only take longer, but burn a lot more energy and resources.
If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise us when booking your trek so that we can cater for you. Note: sometimes not all dietary requirements are able to be met, but please inform us and we will certainly do our best!
Some tips for staying healthy:
• Do NOT drink or brush your teeth with tap water or untreated water!
• Drink only properly boiled water or use water purification tablets, such as iodine. Bottled water is available, but as the plastic cannot be recycled in Nepal we request you to consider the waste impact of your bottles – we recommend you drink boiled water or use iodine.
• Your hands are perhaps your biggest enemy in terms of your health as they get very dirty during the day. Wash your hands before every meal or snack. People often think they get sick from the food, but it’s far more likely they forgot to wash their hands!
• During the trek DO NOT try to test your fitness and walk too high, too quickly! Listen to your guide and take their advice as they are trained to look after your safety. Altitude sickness is a killer and you MUST take it seriously.
First aid kit:
When we have groups of 4+ people we supply a comprehensive first aid kit carried by your guide. For individual trekkers and small groups (less than 4 people) we supply a smaller first aid kit carried by your guide
It is recommended that you bring a small personal medical kit including your preferred painkillers, throat lozenges, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular medication you MUST bring those medicines with you PLUS an extra supply in case one pack is lost. If you have any allergies and/or take any medications, you MUST advise us when booking your trek!
The trails:
Trekking trails vary from wide, road-like avenues to narrow, slippery paths built out over enormous drops. In many places, a fall from the trail would be fatal. One must pay attention at all times to where you are placing
your feet. Be especially careful not to move while looking through the view finder of your camera!
Be prepared for the weather:
Nepal has the widest altitude range of any country on the earth. Each altitude has its own weather, from tropical heat to arctic cold. In the main trekking seasons in the spring and autumn, the weather is generally stable and even the high passes may be free of snow and relatively easy to traverse at times.
Some trekkers who have encountered an easy day at altitude may spread the word that boots and warm clothing are not required. This is a mistake. Sudden storms occur at any time, dumping snow on the passes without warning. At that point, any one poorly equipped will not be able to proceed and may even be stranded for a number of days risking their life and the lives of others.
You are heading into the worlds highest mountain range. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather!!
Altitude and preventing Altitude Sickness:
• Being in a hurry in the mountains can be deadly. Acclimatization is the word used to describe the adjustments your body makes as it ascends to higher altitudes.
• Ascending slowly, with appropriate rest days and drinking plenty of water is one of the best ways not to get Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Data indicates that drinking 3-4 litres of fluids (water, soup etc) per day to avoid dehydration helps in the acclimatization process.
• You should not plan to go to high altitude if you have heart disease, difficulty breathing at sea level or are pregnant. You should consult your doctor about any known medical conditions if you are considering trekking in high altitude (over 2500m).
• Avoid sleeping pills, alcohol and smoking while at altitude as they tend to decrease breathing and lead to AMS.
• The first aid kit carried by your guide includes Diamox and other altitude medications and he/she is trained in the identification of AMS symptoms and their treatment. You MUST take their advice. If anything happens to your guide the first aid kit has a Wilderness Medicine handbook with comprehensive information about altitude sickness and other ailments.
When relevant, your pre-trek briefing will include information about what to expect and what to do to avoid AMS before embarking on your trek.
Tipping and cash requirements:
While all main meals are provided on trek, do not forget to bring some Nepalese rupees for drinks or snacks that you might purchase on the way. You will be surprised by what is available on the popular trekking routes
now! The amount to carry on the trekking routes depends on the area you are going to trek in, so please ask your guide for advice. Tipping is now common in Nepal but there is no strict rules about how much the tip should be. You should only tip if you are satisfied with the service.
Photographing people:
During your trek you will have many opportunities to photograph local people and the amazing scenery and you will use tons of film/memory space! When you want to take a photo of a person, please ask them first and respect their right to refuse – you will be surprised how easy it is to convey the request to take someone’s photo even when you don’t share a common language! If you have a digital camera it is considerate (and fun!) to show them their photo and if it’s possible to arrange to have copies printed and sent to them this is an
amazing gift! However do not promise to do so if you are not sure you can deliver on the promise, so please talk to your guide about this! Photos can be a brilliant way to establish a connection with local people, but please respect their right to privacy.
Considering the Environment:
While trekking you have to be careful not to destroy the very environment you are enjoying so much. It is not only for your enjoyment, people and wildlife rely on this environment for their drinking water and food supply and many places are of enormous religious significance to local people.
There are many ways you can help to conserve the environment of the area in which you trek. Here are some
simple tips:
• pick up any litter along the trail;
• burn all your toilet paper and bury your faeces when not in camp, make sure you go at least 50m away from any water source;
• do not make campfire, nor consume food cooked on wood fires;
• drink boiled/treated water instead of mineral water as the plastic bottles are a problem;
• stick to the trails to prevent erosion and damage to fragile alpine flora
• ensure all rubbish is packed out (or burnt/buried if appropriate).
Insurance:
All tour participants should obtain their own personal insurance which covers medical and emergency evacuation at a minimum. You will of course also want cover for loss or damage to personal effects, flight or trip cancellation etc.
Final tips!
To ensure that you have the best time possible and that Nepal benefits from your visit, please respect local traditions, customs, values and the environment. You will have a great time if you are open to the warm
hearted Nepali hospitality and if you respect their efforts to protect their local culture and maintain local pride.
• Respect privacy when taking photographs
• Respect holy places and dress appropriately
• Refrain from giving money or food to children. There are many good organisations working to help street children, we recommend you support them instead of encouraging the kids to stay on the street.
• Your attempts at speaking some Nepali will open hearts and bring huge smiles!
• Protect the natural environment, see above
• Finally, respect local ways. You may not agree with everything you see and you may want to intervene or say something. Please remember, you probably do not fully understand what you are seeing and in any case your role here on your holiday is not to change Nepal. If you feel strongly about it then that’s great...there are many avenues for volunteering or long term work here to support positive, sustainable change for Nepal!
What we supply for your trek:
• When we have groups of 4+ people we supply a comprehensive first aid kit carried by your guide. For individual trekkers and small groups (less than 4 people) we supply a basic first aid kit carried by your guide
• Your local trek guide and leader of the trekking crew (which depends on group size):
Sherpas and Porters with equipment and clothing (snow gear, warm gear, sleeping gear) and with all accommodation, meals and insurance provided for your crew.
The first things you need:
• Sleeping bag and liner – a 3 or 4 season bag is recommended, depending on your trek
• Down jacket – need for this depends on the season and where you are going
• Kit / duffel bag – required to pack your gear in (suitcases are not suitable)
Please note: Unless you advise us otherwise we will assume you are bringing these items with you. If you need help to buy or rent them, please just let us know, we’re more than happy to help (down jackets and sleeping bags can be rented in Kathmandu).
Other items that we recommend you take on trek:
• Loose comfortable T-Shirts NOT COTTON or long sleeved shirts for sun protection
• Long trousers (for cultural reasons, we request you not to wear tight pants or
shorts. If you really want to wear shorts, please make them loose fitting and long)
• A warm jacket / fleece pullover
• A thermal layer (shirt and pants)
• A water and wind proof layer (jacket and pants)
• Woollen or thermal gloves
• Sun hat and sun glasses
• Woollen or fleece hat
• Scarf / stretchy ‘buff’
• Socks – depending on the season bring either warm, woollen socks or cool, breathable cotton socks
• Comfortable and worn in trekking boots
• Sandals or flip flops for camp
• A comfortable day pack with adjustable waist and shoulder straps
• Personal toiletries - shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, travel towel, etc
• Ziplock bags are handy for convenient leak-proof storage
• Sun block and lip balm
• Dust mask/ scarf / stretchy ‘buff’ for dusty trails
• Personal first aid kit + any personal medications you need to take + water treatment tablets/drops
• Camera, batteries and charger, music, book
• Airtight and waterproof ‘dry bags’ are great for 1) keeping your clothes dry and 2) storing your dirty
laundry separate from clean clothes!
• Sleeping bag liner – either silk, cotton or fleece
• WATER BOTTLES - please be able to carry 2 litres of water and have bottles that can handle boiling/hot water
• HEAD TORCH and spare batteries
• Your sense of humour and adventure!
Note: These days most of these items can be purchased in Kathmandu. There are now several leading brand stores selling their own equipment and there are many stores selling cheap imitations and some well established local stores selling under their own labels. Please ask us if you’d like some advice about where to go to get any gear. If you need to do any shopping for gear, please let us know with enough time to do this before leaving for trek!
What to take with you in your day pack:
Please carry the following in your day pack, as a minimum:
• 2 litres of water (please make sure your water bottles will take boiling/hot water)
• sunscreen, sun glasses, sun hat, lip balm, dust mask / scarf / ‘buff’ to help on dusty trails
• warm fleece or thermal layer and gloves
• water proof layer
• head torch
• hand cleaner
• your camera
• any money you want for snacks/drinks along the trail
• CRITICAL – take any personal medications you require during the day – you will not see your kit bag until evening.
The rest you can put into your kit bag which will be carried by the porters, whom you won’t see until camp in the evening. It’s a great idea to use dry bags (ie airtight/waterproof) in your kit bag to store your dry clothes in to keep them DRY in case it rains and one to put your dirty laundry in (to keep from making everything else in your bag smell bad!). These dry bags are readily available in Kathmandu.
What about gear I want to leave in Kathmandu?
Before departure for your trek you might pack your ‘town clothes’ and anything you don’t want on trek with you and ask your hotel (if you come back to the same hotel) or your guide to store it for you. If you want to do this, then consider bringing or buying a simple bag here for this purpose.
Tea house facilities:
You will share a room on your trek, unless you specifically request a single supplement (a small charge is required to cover the cost of taking an extra room for you). Please note that at peak trekking times a single
room may not be available. Tea houses sometimes have attached bathrooms and hot showers, but the lodge owners may (or may not) charge an extra fee and this can fluctuate depending on demand. So this is not included in the price of your trek. You can simply pay for these if and when you desire them. Tea houses are simple accommodation, not hotels. They are often located in remote areas and getting supplies is expensive and time consuming – you can’t expect 5 star facilities, but what you get will be
for by the friendliness and hospitality of your hosts. They will be doing their best, so please keep your expectations firmly grounded in the reality of where you are.
Food on trek:
You will probably be surprised by the menu items available on a tea house trek! Please bear in mind that all items not locally grown are carried up the trail you walked up and that waste is not often carried back out again. Beer bottles pile up behind many tea houses! Please also consider the energy required to cook different menu items and consider ordering the same food for the group, rather than a different dish for each group member, which will not only take longer, but burn a lot more energy and resources.
If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise us when booking your trek so that we can cater for you. Note: sometimes not all dietary requirements are able to be met, but please inform us and we will certainly do our best!
Some tips for staying healthy:
• Do NOT drink or brush your teeth with tap water or untreated water!
• Drink only properly boiled water or use water purification tablets, such as iodine. Bottled water is available, but as the plastic cannot be recycled in Nepal we request you to consider the waste impact of your bottles – we recommend you drink boiled water or use iodine.
• Your hands are perhaps your biggest enemy in terms of your health as they get very dirty during the day. Wash your hands before every meal or snack. People often think they get sick from the food, but it’s far more likely they forgot to wash their hands!
• During the trek DO NOT try to test your fitness and walk too high, too quickly! Listen to your guide and take their advice as they are trained to look after your safety. Altitude sickness is a killer and you MUST take it seriously.
First aid kit:
When we have groups of 4+ people we supply a comprehensive first aid kit carried by your guide. For individual trekkers and small groups (less than 4 people) we supply a smaller first aid kit carried by your guide
It is recommended that you bring a small personal medical kit including your preferred painkillers, throat lozenges, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular medication you MUST bring those medicines with you PLUS an extra supply in case one pack is lost. If you have any allergies and/or take any medications, you MUST advise us when booking your trek!
The trails:
Trekking trails vary from wide, road-like avenues to narrow, slippery paths built out over enormous drops. In many places, a fall from the trail would be fatal. One must pay attention at all times to where you are placing
your feet. Be especially careful not to move while looking through the view finder of your camera!
Be prepared for the weather:
Nepal has the widest altitude range of any country on the earth. Each altitude has its own weather, from tropical heat to arctic cold. In the main trekking seasons in the spring and autumn, the weather is generally stable and even the high passes may be free of snow and relatively easy to traverse at times.
Some trekkers who have encountered an easy day at altitude may spread the word that boots and warm clothing are not required. This is a mistake. Sudden storms occur at any time, dumping snow on the passes without warning. At that point, any one poorly equipped will not be able to proceed and may even be stranded for a number of days risking their life and the lives of others.
You are heading into the worlds highest mountain range. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather!!
Altitude and preventing Altitude Sickness:
• Being in a hurry in the mountains can be deadly. Acclimatization is the word used to describe the adjustments your body makes as it ascends to higher altitudes.
• Ascending slowly, with appropriate rest days and drinking plenty of water is one of the best ways not to get Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Data indicates that drinking 3-4 litres of fluids (water, soup etc) per day to avoid dehydration helps in the acclimatization process.
• You should not plan to go to high altitude if you have heart disease, difficulty breathing at sea level or are pregnant. You should consult your doctor about any known medical conditions if you are considering trekking in high altitude (over 2500m).
• Avoid sleeping pills, alcohol and smoking while at altitude as they tend to decrease breathing and lead to AMS.
• The first aid kit carried by your guide includes Diamox and other altitude medications and he/she is trained in the identification of AMS symptoms and their treatment. You MUST take their advice. If anything happens to your guide the first aid kit has a Wilderness Medicine handbook with comprehensive information about altitude sickness and other ailments.
When relevant, your pre-trek briefing will include information about what to expect and what to do to avoid AMS before embarking on your trek.
Tipping and cash requirements:
While all main meals are provided on trek, do not forget to bring some Nepalese rupees for drinks or snacks that you might purchase on the way. You will be surprised by what is available on the popular trekking routes
now! The amount to carry on the trekking routes depends on the area you are going to trek in, so please ask your guide for advice. Tipping is now common in Nepal but there is no strict rules about how much the tip should be. You should only tip if you are satisfied with the service.
Photographing people:
During your trek you will have many opportunities to photograph local people and the amazing scenery and you will use tons of film/memory space! When you want to take a photo of a person, please ask them first and respect their right to refuse – you will be surprised how easy it is to convey the request to take someone’s photo even when you don’t share a common language! If you have a digital camera it is considerate (and fun!) to show them their photo and if it’s possible to arrange to have copies printed and sent to them this is an
amazing gift! However do not promise to do so if you are not sure you can deliver on the promise, so please talk to your guide about this! Photos can be a brilliant way to establish a connection with local people, but please respect their right to privacy.
Considering the Environment:
While trekking you have to be careful not to destroy the very environment you are enjoying so much. It is not only for your enjoyment, people and wildlife rely on this environment for their drinking water and food supply and many places are of enormous religious significance to local people.
There are many ways you can help to conserve the environment of the area in which you trek. Here are some
simple tips:
• pick up any litter along the trail;
• burn all your toilet paper and bury your faeces when not in camp, make sure you go at least 50m away from any water source;
• do not make campfire, nor consume food cooked on wood fires;
• drink boiled/treated water instead of mineral water as the plastic bottles are a problem;
• stick to the trails to prevent erosion and damage to fragile alpine flora
• ensure all rubbish is packed out (or burnt/buried if appropriate).
Insurance:
All tour participants should obtain their own personal insurance which covers medical and emergency evacuation at a minimum. You will of course also want cover for loss or damage to personal effects, flight or trip cancellation etc.
Final tips!
To ensure that you have the best time possible and that Nepal benefits from your visit, please respect local traditions, customs, values and the environment. You will have a great time if you are open to the warm
hearted Nepali hospitality and if you respect their efforts to protect their local culture and maintain local pride.
• Respect privacy when taking photographs
• Respect holy places and dress appropriately
• Refrain from giving money or food to children. There are many good organisations working to help street children, we recommend you support them instead of encouraging the kids to stay on the street.
• Your attempts at speaking some Nepali will open hearts and bring huge smiles!
• Protect the natural environment, see above
• Finally, respect local ways. You may not agree with everything you see and you may want to intervene or say something. Please remember, you probably do not fully understand what you are seeing and in any case your role here on your holiday is not to change Nepal. If you feel strongly about it then that’s great...there are many avenues for volunteering or long term work here to support positive, sustainable change for Nepal!
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