Day 01 Arrival Kathmandu
It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. A representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel. At the hotel you will be briefed about your daily activities.
Day 02 - Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since Nepal opened its doors to visitors. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence in the Valley. Patan and Bhaktapur, its two major neighboring cities bear immense historical, cultural and religious significances. There will be a half day guided tour to the famous and biggest Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal Boudhanath, the 15th century Palace of 55 windows and Swoyambhunath.
Day 03 - Kathmandu to Syabru Besi [2000m]
From Kathmandu, we take approx nine-hours drive to Syabru Besi. After driving 30 kms, we approach pristine villages on the banks of the river Trishuli. We also get enchanting panorama of the Himalaya, including the Annapurnas, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and the peaks of the Langtang region.
Day 04 - Syabru Besi to Gatlang (2200m)
Today we start early, beginning our trek from Syabru Besi to Gatlang. On the way to Gatlang, the Goljung view point will, after a short 3 hour walk, give you an amazing panorama of the Ganesh Himal including Shishapangma (8013m) and Langtang Lirung (7246m). We climb the first half of the day and the second half, we follow the road. The second part of the trek is easier than the first half. We camp overnight at Gatlang.
Day 05 - Trek to Yuri Kharka (2800m)
From Gatlang, we walk for about an hour and a half and reach a local village. We continue along the trail, passing through forests. After walking for several hours, we reach Yuri Kharka.
Day 06 - Rest day
Today is a rest day for exploration as well as acclimatization.
Day 07 - Trek to Jageswor (4000m)
From Yuri Kharka, we enter a quiet and unspoiled valley which will lead us to the Jageswor Lake. The steep trail goes through a dense forest where life seems to be suspended on time. This region of Nepal is inhabited by the Tamang people.
Day 08 - Trek to Rimlang Kharka (4200m)
Leaving Jageswor, we continue along the trail. We then take a steady climb, a bit up and a bit down. En route, we pass through some rhododendron bushes. After lunch we climb through the 4000 meters mark. After walking for almost six hours, the ascent eventually ends up at almost 4200m and we arrive at Rimlang Kharka.The views from the south ridge of this mountain chain are truly breathtaking.
Day 09 - Trek to Changan Kharka (4400m)
We follow the ridge to the north direction at an average altitude of 4500 meters high. We walk on narrow trails which seem a bit dangerous because the trail is quite steep. After walking for about 6 hours, we finally reach Changan Kharka.
Day 10 - Trek to Tatopani (2600m)
Leaving Changan Kharka, we descend towards Tatopani. We pass through small Tamang settlements and large forest while following the Sanjen Khola stream. The route is pretty interesting as we actually have to cross over Tibet and walk for about a kilometer and half to reach Tatopani. En route, we cross some interesting bridges as well. Tatopani (2,600 m) is an interesting place. Here, we get to see people from all over Nepal. Tatopani takes its name after a famous Hot Spring. A bath in the Hot Spring is a must do as it helps in relaxation. It is also believed that a dip in the Hot Spring will help in healing numerous diseases.
Day 11 - Trek to Thuman (2400m)
Today we trek from Tatopani to Thuman. After walking uphill for three hours, we reach Nagthali. En route, passing through the Tamang Heritage route, we stop at a Tamang village and visit the gompas. The villagers here are very friendly. After a short stop at the village, we continue along the trail. We walk downhill, and after walking for around two hours we reach Thuman.
Thuman, a large Tamang village, has a medical centre and a school. People of Thuman are very hospitable. Here, we can get significant insights about the Tamang culture and heritage.
Day 12 - Trek to Rasuwagadi
Today we trek from Thuman to Rasuwagadi. A fort at Rasuwagadi in Timure is a historical reminder of the Nepal-Tibet relations that has existed for many centuries. A suspension bridge here links Nepal and Tibet.
Day 13 - Trek to Briddim
Passing through green forests of Alnus and Rhododendrons, lucrative landscapes and high altitude meadows, we continue along the trail which finally ends at Briddim. Lying on the lap of Langtang Himal, Briddim offers warm Tamang hospitality. We can also visit local monasteries of Dukchu Gomba (monastery) chosen as sacred site by the great Tibetan Lama - Guru Rinpoche and Chukla Khnaga Gomba. Other major attractions of Briddim are the endangered wildlife species including Himalaya black bear, Tahr, Ghoral, Red Panda and barking deer.
Day 14 - Trek to Syabru Besi (1400m)
We follow the Bhote Kosi River on the left side of the valley to the North and then come back on the opposite side on our way back to Syabru Besi. The route moves through ups and downs. Passing through paddy and corn fields, we finally arrive at Syabru Besi.
Day 15 - Drive to Kathmandu
We conclude our trip with a drive of 8 hours from Syabru Besi to Kathmandu.
Day 16 - Depart Kathmandu
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. On the other hand, if you prefer to stay longer, you can go for short tours such as wildlife safari at National parks, rafting, Pilgrimage tour to Muktinath, etc. - ask us.
Contact us at
office@explore-himalaya.com
for more information about this tour
|
TRIP GRADE
Moderate to fairly challenging
This is a long trek that goes right into high mountain country and over high passes. Physically quite tiring, it involves approx 6-8 hours trekking along rocky ridges. No previous experience is required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercise and enjoy walking in the high altitude conditions.
TREKKING TYPES
We offer several options regarding the organization of your trek:
1) Camping trek
On camping trek you will be sleeping and eating in tents. A trekking crew contains one sirdar, one cook and the numbers of kitchen crew, Sherpa assistants and porters depending on the size of the group. Under the leadership of the Sirdar (the local trek leader) the crew will ensure you take the right path. The kitchen crew will keep you well fed with delicious and nutritious meals. The porters shall transport the gear from camp to camp. Our main aim is to make the trek as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. Sirdar and his assistants speak basic English, good enough to explain to you about the places, local culture or any sight that catches your eyes.
Includes: Guide, Porters, Cook, All meals and tents
The Trek in this Dossier (Baden Powell Trek) involves Camping from Gatlang to Tatopani. Local Home stay is provided from Tatopani onwards.
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’.
This trek involves camping only up to Changan Kharka. From Tatopani onwards, Home stay facilities are available. The villagers appreciate your staying with them. During your home stay, you can live in a village home, with basic accommodation facilities. The village homes that we have chosen are clean with good toilets. During your stay, you get to eat tasty and hygienic home cooked food along with some local delicacies. Staying as guests, you get to experience the homely environment and local village life.
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 ON A CAMPING TREK
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) Western leader
2) Trained Nepali Trek leader (experienced and knowledgeable)
3) 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 while on GAP and on Lodge trek 1 porter for 2 members.
GROUP SIZE
We bring together a small group of like minded people to give them a memorable and insightful travel experience with an invaluable opportunity to interact with each other in a fun-filled environment. Our travel group generally comprises of maximum 12 members. We need a minimum of 2 participants to run our fixed departure dates. For private trips, no minimum and maximum apply. For private trips, no minimum and maximum apply.
If you would like to travel independently or with your friends, families and colleagues, you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient time frame for any number of people (min 1 max 100 at a time).
PERSONAL EXPENSES
Personal expenses depend largely on the type of trek, duration and the trekking region.
If you are on Camping or Tea house 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.
LAND TRANSFERS
The starting point of the trek is Syabru Besi, which is connected by a 9 hours drive from Kathmandu. On your return, our car/bus shall pick you from Syabru Besi and drive to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport (Kathmandu).
COMMUNICATION
While trekking in the remote parts 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, EXPLORE HIMALAYA can provide you a mobile satellite phone (rental charge on request).
TREKKING EQUIPMENT
For trekking in the Langtang region, you will need walking boots, sleeping bag (3 seasons), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack. Comprehensive list of equipments will be provided once you book your trip.
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Camping 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. On some days, we will arrive at camp by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free.
Dinner is usually served between 6 and 7 pm. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and talking with the crew, or perhaps even joining in some singing and dancing, before heading off to the tent for a well-earned sleep.
MEETING AND GREETING IN KATHMANDU
You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a “meeting and greeting” service at airport. You just pass on the Customs and come out of the Terminal building where you will see someone standing with a placard with either ‘Explore Himalaya’ or your name written on it. Our airport representative or tour officer will greet you and welcome you with a garland.
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO
The Langtang trek can be done anytime of the year except the monsoon season (June to September). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher everyday. The nights are cold (between -10 C to 5C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 20C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Trekking during the monsoon is not recommended, as the visibility during monsoon is limited. Trekking during the winter is possible; however, it is much colder than Autumn and Spring.
March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling.
PEOPLE AND CULTURE
Langtang region is the home of several ethnic groups. The majority of people are Tamang, Sherpa and Bhotia. Their religion is related to the Bon and the pre-Buddhist doctrines of Tibet. Today this religion has merged with the newer teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. Helambu situated at the north side of Kathmandu valley, which comprises of highland villages, such as Melamchi and Tarkeyghyang. Beautifully situated in alpine meadow, beauty of this region is worth spectacular. The region is mostly inhabitants by friendly and helpful Sherpa people. It is home to two major races of peoples, the Hyolmo or Yolmo and the Tamang. Helambu offers an opportunity to experience Sherpa culture. Helambu is also famous for its sweet apples and artistic Buddhist monasteries.
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 a remote 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 similar to your original.
TREK DURATION
We ensure liability as per indicated itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay extra for Hotels/services incurred in Kathmandu or elsewhere in such cases.
VISA
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Visa is also issued at the entry points. It can be extended at the Department of Immigration, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. Children under 10 years need not pay any visa fee. People willing to get entry Visa at the air port or any of the land entry points are required to fill a visa form with passport photograph. So, please download form from the link below an get ready while you are passing through the immigration Point.
Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries
Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days - US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days - US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency
Tourist Visa Extension
* Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day
* Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January - December).
VACCINATIONS
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.
FIRST AID KIT
We supply a medical bag with standard medicines prescribed by trekking doctors. Since our staffs/guides are not qualified for suggesting medications to western clients, we would request you to use the medicines upon your own risk. It is safer and more reliable if you have your own medicine kit and not depend on what we have.
ALTITUDE
Altitude Sickness has the potential to affect all travelers from 2500m and higher. Your body needs time to adjust to smaller quantities of oxygen in the air at 5500m/18,044ft; the air pressure is approximately half that of sea level, i.e. there is half the amount of oxygen.
Acute Mountain Sickness is caused by going up high too fast and can be fatal if the entire warning signals are ignored. We have included a rest day in Yuri Kharka to avoid any health issues and to ensure a safe trek.
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.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Explore Himalaya works with the motto ‘Development through Tourism’. Keeping in line with this motto, Explore Himalaya Community Service Project (EHCSP) was conceived to empower underprivileged, marginalized, poor and minority segments of Nepal.
Since its inception, EHCSP has been incessantly facilitating and advocating for school education, health, community development, forest conservation, agriculture, culture preservation and fund raising. Explore Himalaya encourages its clients to contribute for the development of Nepal.
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.
We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter Protection group (IPPG - www.ippg.net).
BOOKING CONDITIONS
1) It is fundamental you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken only as a guideline. We can not be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties etc. In such cases, Explore Himalaya shall provide suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Explore Himalaya shall only be responsible for refunds after deducting the expenses already incurred.
2) Your booking will be confirmed by email once we receive your deposit of USD 300 and the signed copy of booking form and contract.
The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 months prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.
3) If you cancel, the following scale of charges will apply:
DATE OF CANCELLATION (CHARGE INCURRED)
2 months before departure – Loss of deposit (US$ 300)
29 days to 2 months before departure – 30% of total trip cost
10 to 28 days before departure – 60% of total trip cost
Less than 10 days before departure – 100% of total trip cost
BOOKING PROCEDURE
If you still have any questions regarding this trip, please feel free to contact us. We answer all enquiries within 24 hours. If you want to book a trip, you can e-mail us at office@explore-himalaya.com or contact us directly by phone: 977-1-4418-100.
<< Back to our Baden Powell Trek |
