Tamang Heritage Trail
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Best Time To Go: October to AprilTamang Heritage Trail |
9 Nights / 10 Days
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The Tamang people (Tamang means horse trader in Tibetan) originally traded horses with the local Nepalis in Rasuwa district, right on the border between Nepal and Tibet. Many generations ago they crossed over and stayed. Tamang people enjoy a party and have distinctive headgear and customs steeped in Tibetan history.
This fascinating short trek begins with a 6 hour drive from Kathmandu through towns and villages before arriving at Syabru Besi, the starting point of the Langtang treks to the east, and the Tamang Heritage Trail to the north. The days are not long, and the maximum altitude you reach is just over 3500 metres. The views from Nagthali and the viewpoint (where you may camp overnight if you have camping and cooking gear) make this a truly memorable trek. The walk from Nagthali to the viewpoint is along a corridor where Red Panda can still occasionally be seen, and there are many beautiful birds to spot.
Best of all, you don't need to rely on weather dependant flights within Nepal to enjoy this trek.
This fascinating short trek begins with a 6 hour drive from Kathmandu through towns and villages before arriving at Syabru Besi, the starting point of the Langtang treks to the east, and the Tamang Heritage Trail to the north. The days are not long, and the maximum altitude you reach is just over 3500 metres. The views from Nagthali and the viewpoint (where you may camp overnight if you have camping and cooking gear) make this a truly memorable trek. The walk from Nagthali to the viewpoint is along a corridor where Red Panda can still occasionally be seen, and there are many beautiful birds to spot.
Best of all, you don't need to rely on weather dependant flights within Nepal to enjoy this trek.
OTHER 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.
Trip starts from: Kathmandu, Nepal
No. of days of the trip: 10
No. of trekking days: 8
Maximum altitude: 3,500 m at viewpoint
Trekking Grade: Easy-moderate
All-Inclusive Cost: Please call us for details
We are adventure lovers here at MHE and want to make adventure travel accessible to any one who yearns it. That is why we've introduced the Pay Monthly scheme. Simply call us for more details.
No. of days of the trip: 10
No. of trekking days: 8
Maximum altitude: 3,500 m at viewpoint
Trekking Grade: Easy-moderate
All-Inclusive Cost: Please call us for details
We are adventure lovers here at MHE and want to make adventure travel accessible to any one who yearns it. That is why we've introduced the Pay Monthly scheme. Simply call us for more details.
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN 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: Dinner
Meals: Dinner
DAY2: DRIVE KATHMANDU TO SYABRU BESI, THEN TREK TO BRIDDHIM (7HRS)
An early breakfast before you take the car or jeep north out of Kathmandu on winding mountain roads, with distant views of Manaslu and other Himalayan mountains, before stopping at Trishuli for lunch. Not long after lunch the sealed road turns to dirt, and you weave your way up and down the mountain before reaching Syabru Besi. Here you begin your trek by crossing a bridge over the Bhote Kosi river and starting to climb along good trails which are flanked by pine and rhododendron forests, with glimpses of the Chilime Valley to the west, and the Rasuwa forests to the north. Briddhim is a beautiful little village with a recently renovated gompa and many fantastic stories about the visit of famous Buddhist sages. Relax in your homestay accommodation for the night with your charming Tamang hosts. Accommodation and food are offered in this village on a rotational basis, so everyone gets to benefit from your visit!
Overnight at homestay. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight at homestay. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 3: TREK BRIDDHIM TO THUMAN (7 HRS)
After breakfast, bid farewell to this delightful village and start walking through the forests, beside the river, before crossing the river and taking lunch at Timure. A short climb and you are walking along side the terraced fields and mani walls, to reach Thuman This small village, perched on the hillside, has beautiful views of the Langtang range, and here we spend the evening. Enjoy tea made by the elderly local gompa caretaker, and meet the Tibetan influenced locals who just love to sing and dance!
Overnight in a local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight in a local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 4: TREK THUMAN TO NAGTHALI (4HRS)
Wake up to sunrise on the mountains, before starting a pleasant uphill trek through rhododendron forests and grassy meadows to Nagthali, perched atop the hills and offering amazing views of Langtang to the east, and the Ganesh Himal to the west. You can also see down the valley to Syabru Besi, where you started the trek a few days ago. This scenic spot has an old gompa which you can visit, as well as some lovely little mountain walks to enjoy the view.
Overnight: local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight: local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 5: TREK NAGTHALI TO VIEWPOINT FOR PICNIC LUNCH AND RETURN (7 HRS)
A fantastic treat today - take a picnic lunch and walk through ancient forests which were formerly hunting areas, before you reach the stunning viewpoint, where you will enjoy the most scenic picnic ever! Langtang, Shishapangma, Ganesh Himals all lie before you - you can even see into Tibet which is just one range of hills to the north.
Overnight: local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight: local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 6: TREK NAGTHALI TO TATOPANI, THEN RELAX IN THE HOT SPRINGS (3 HRS)
The trail climbs gradually through small villages and yak pastures as the valley opens out further and the views become more extensive. After crossing several small streams and moraines, the trail reaches the settlement at Kyangjin. Here there is a small monastery and a government-operated cheese factory. We should arrive at Kyangjin by lunch time allowing time to acclimatise and explore the area. It is a dramatic setting, with snow covered peaks surrounding us in all directions.
Overnight at local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight at local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 7: TREK TATOPANI TO GATLANG (6 HRS)
After breakfast it's time to head down the Chilime valley through fields and terraces, past mani walls, before stopping for lunch in Thangbuchet, where there is a small Tibetan refugee settlement. Post lunch, trek up to Gatlang, the head Village Development Committee in this area. Gatlang boasts beautifully carved wooden houses, decorated in fine Tibetan influenced style, and super friendly Tamang residents. Take time to visit nearby Parvati Kund, which is thronged by pilgrims in the Janai Purnima / Raksha Bandhan festival.
Overnight in local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight in local teahouse. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 8: TREK GATLANG TO SYABRU BESI (6HRS)
Enjoy your breakfast before trekking down to Syabru Besi where you can relax in the afternoon. Enjoy some post trek beer with your guide and crew.
Overnight: local homestay. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight: local homestay. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Today, depending on your energy levels, you have the option of climbing up to 4984m for incredible views.
Overnight: local homestay. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overnight: local homestay. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 9: DRIVE TO KATHMANDU (7 HRS)
After breakfast return to Kathmandu by road, arriving late afternoon.
Overnight at hotel. Meals: Breakfast, lunch.
Overnight at hotel. Meals: Breakfast, lunch.
DAY 10: DEPART KATHMANDU
After breakfast there is time for shopping or sightseeing before your departure.
Meals: Breakfast.
Meals: Breakfast.
COST INCLUDES:
- 9 nights accommodation in hotels, lodges on twin sharing basis.
- 9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, and 8 Dinners.
- All government taxes included.
- All transfers on private vehicle
- Your trekking guide and porter (on a 1:2 basis) with all their transport, equipment, insurance and including their meals and accommodation. (MHE only works with local operators whose staff has insurance and free access to equipment. The salaries are above average and medical care, if needed, is for everyone in the expedition. Porters carry a maximum of 30 kilos and if a porter gets sick he is taken care of until he has recovered. This means that our clients are paying a slightly higher rate but you are supporting decent and equitable working conditions for all staff).
- All necessary documentation for the trek: trekking permits, TIMS card and any National Park permits
- Services and activities not mentioned in the detailed itinerary.
- Any gear or equipment that you may need to rent/buy - please ask us if you would like any advice about gear to bring/buy/rent.
- International flights to and from Kathmandu.
- Nepal visa fees and international airport taxes.
- Any excess baggage charges.
- Comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and rescue evacuation should this be required for any reason (we require this as the minimum insurance cover).
- Additional nights, optional trips and sightseeing tours outside the detailed itineraries above.
- Single supplement - please ask for single supplement charges if you require them.
- Personal expenses (e.g. mineral water/soft drinks/bar bills, entrance/photography fees at monasteries, laundry, telephone calls, postage, donations, extra snacks etc.)
- Any extra charge that tea house owners may levy for single rooms, attached bathrooms, or hot showers (if these facilities are available) and charging of batteries.
- Tips for your trekking crew, city guide, drivers, hotels, restaurants etc (please ask if you would like guidance about appropriate tips).
- Costs incurred due to changes in programs and reservations due to unforeseen events (e.g. landslides, strikes, fuel shortages etc)
- 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, phone calls, beverages.
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.
WONDERING WHAT THE TEAHOUSE ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REALLY LIKE? READ OUR BLOG
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.
WONDERING WHAT THE TEAHOUSE ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REALLY LIKE? READ OUR BLOG
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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