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Nepal Peak Climbing
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Our Nepal Services |
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CHULU EAST
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(Ascent of Chulu East (6200m) and around Annapurna Trek - 24 days)
Chulu East (6200m) is situated high above the Manang valley with breathtaking views across to the Annapurnas II, III and IV, Gangapurna, Glacier Dome, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak and Manaslu. The climb is combined with the classic trek around the Annapurna massif, ascending the Marshyangdi valley and crossing the Thorung La, before descending the Kali Gandaki valley to Pokhara. The climb is technically straightforward and you should be familiar with the use of your own equipment, crampons, harness, ice axe, tying knots and handling ropes. Most of the climbing will involve walking roped together, including a glacier crossing. You should be very fit and having some experience would be an advantage.
The trek provides a great range of landscapes and cultures as we progress from lush green foothills and terraced rice fields, where the people are predominantly Hindu, through alpine forests to a barren, arid region of the Manang Valley, where people of Tibetan origin live. This slow approach is ideal for acclimatizing and provides increasingly spectacular views of Lamjung, Himalchuli and Manaslu and finally the Great Barrier, a 25 mile wall of Himalayan mountains dividing the Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki valleys, dominated by the towering Annapurna'. Leaving the main trail above the village of Pisang [3,200m] we ascend the little visited Chegaji Khola Valley towards Chulu East Base Camp at [4,200m]. We spend sometime here for acclimatization and sorting out equipment before moving up to high camp [5,500m]. A dawn start takes us across the glacier onto the snow and ice slopes which lead to small subsidiary summit. The ridge is exposed but not technical and in every direction new peaks crowd our horizon as we gain height.
Rejoining the main trail, we head towards Manang and the Thorung La pass [5,426m]. From here, there are dramatic views below to the head of the Kali Gandaki valley and across the barren hills of Mustang leading to Tibet. From Muktinath, we begin our descent of the Kali Gandaki, taking us from the dry barren terrain of the upper valley, through alpine forests to lush green terraces and rhododendron forests. En-route, spectacular views of the Nilgiris, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I unfold.
At Tatopani, you get to bathe in the healing hot springs. From Poon Hill, above the pass at Ghorepani [2,834m], a magnificent Himalayan panorama reveals Dhaulagiri, Tukche, the Nilgiris, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Glacier Dome, Manaslu and Machhapuchhre, the fish tail peak. This magnificent trek finally concludes by descending to Phewa Tal, the famous lake at Pokhara. |
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Trip Facts |
Trip duration: 26 Days
Grade: Strenuous Trek
Activity: Peak Climbing & Sightseeing
Starts in: Kathmandu
Ends in: Kathmandu
Trek type: FOT
Accommodation: Camping and lodge
Transportation: Flight & private car
Maximum altitude: 6200m
[FOT: Fully Organized Trek or Camping Trek |
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Outline Itinerery |
Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02 Kathmandu to Gorkha & Daraudi Khola
Day 03 Daraudi Khola to Palungtar
Day 04 Palungtar to Udipur (748m)
Day 05 UdAipur to Bhul Bhule (824m)
Day 06 Bhul Bhule to Jagat (1343m)
Day 07 Jagat to Dharapani (1946m)
Day 08 Dharapani to Chame (2685m)
Day 09 Chame to Pisang (3200m)
Day 10 Pisang to Julu (3500m)
Day 11 Julu to Yak Kharka (3750m)
Day 12 Yak Kharka to Base Camp (4200m)
Day 13 At Base Camp
Days 14 - 16 Base Camp to High Camp (5000m) & Chulu East Summit
Day 17 Base Camp to Manang (3511m)
Day 18 Manang to Phedi - Thorung Base Camp (4427m)
Day 19 Phedi to Muktinath (3694m)
Day 20 Muktinath to Marpha (2665m)
Day 21 Marpha to Lete (2470m)
Day 22 Lete to Tatopani (1160m)
Day 23 Tatopani to Ghorepani (2833m)
Day 24 Trek to the Road Head & Drive to Pokhara
Day 25 Fly to Kathmandu
Day 26 Depart Kathmandu |
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DATES
Available for private group
PRICE
Contact us at
office@explore-himalaya.com or Fill up the booking form below for more information about this tour
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Detail Itinerery - Chulu East Peak Climbing |
Day01Arrival in 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 Kathmandu to Gorkha & Daraudi Khola
Today we set off early from Kathmandu. We travel by private bus along the Kathmandu - Pokhara highway following the Trisuli River. Soon after Mugling, we turn off this road and head towards Gorkha, the original homeland of the Gurkha soldiers. The journey takes about 5-6 hours from Kathmandu, after sorting out our gear, we begin trekking with a short walk of 1-2 hours towards our camping spot by the Daraundi Khola.
Day 03 Daraudi Khola to Palungtar
Our first full days trekking is not difficult, crossing a number of streams and walking partly through forests and rice fields. It is important to wear a good sun hat for protection against the heat where there is no shade. Our camp at Palungtar will provide tremendous views of the Annapurna and Manaslu range of mountains.
Day 04 Palungtar to Udipur (748m)
Today we reach the Marshyandi Valley, crossing to the West bank on a suspension bridge at Tarku Ghat. Then we follow the rough dirt road for a short while which has come from Dumre. Lunch stop will be by the banks of the Naudi Khola, providing an opportunity to cool down by the riverside. We continue following the road through Bhoti Odar and on to Udipur.
Day 05 Udipur to Bhul Bhule (824m)
The trail continues Northward up the Marshyangdi Valley, with Himalchuli and Peak 29 dominating the horizon. The valley noticeably changes now to become a deep river gorge. We continue on the left bank of the Marshyangdi, stopping for lunch soon after the village of Besi Sahar, by the banks of the Pam Khola. At Bhul Bhule, we cross to the right bank of the Marshyangdi on a long suspension bridge.
Day 06 Bhul Bhule to Jagat (1343m)
Corn begins to replace rice cultivation and we pass many crashing waterfalls as the valley narrows. It is a steep climb up to Bahun danda ("Brahmin Hill"), the Northern-most Brahmin settlement in the valley. From here, the trail descends steeply through rice terraces, then in and out of side canyons before crossing the Marshyangdi on a long suspension bridge at Syange (3,725ft / 1136m). The trail climbs high above the river on the steep West bank which is forested with rhododendrons and pine. Because of the steepness of the valley, villages in this region are infrequent, and so are suitable places to camp. Jagat is a small village with a medieval atmosphere inhabited by people of Tibetan ancestry.
Day 07 Jagat to Dharapani (1946m)
From Jagat the trail continues to climb through forests to Chyamje. Following the East bank of the Marshyangdi the trail climbs gradually before the valley suddenly opens into a large plateau at Tal (4,950ft / 1511m), the site of an ancient lake bed. We will probably stop for lunch here. Corn, barley and potatoes are grown in this area. After crossing the broad flat valley the trail climbs steeply on a stone staircase high above the river. There are some steep ups and downs on this section, passing through forests of blue pine before descending to a suspension bridge. From here the trail climbs to a stone archway or kani, marking the entrance to Dharapani.
Day 08 Dharapani to Chame (2685m)
From Dharapani the trail passes a school and climbs over a spur before descending to Bagarchhap, the first village with typical Tibetan buildings and examples of Buddhist culture including a gompa (monastery), prayer wheels and entrance chortens (monuments) at both ends of the village. The path enters a narrow forested gorge and, looking back, we have a magnificent view of Manaslu. As we proceed the trail continues through Temung and the hamlets of Charku and Thangla. As we continue on to Burdhan, views of the Annapurna range become more extensive, with Annapurna II, looking particularly splendid. At Chame, the administrative headquarters of the Manang district, there are small pools along the side of the river fed by bubbling hot springs.
Day 09 Chame to Pisang (3200m)
We follow the East bank of the Marshyangdi to Brathang, where Annapurna II is directly above us. We then continue through forests to a wide valley, with dramatic Paungda Danda rock face rising more than 5,000ft from the river. There are good views of Annapurna II, to the south and Pisang Peak to the North-East. The trail continues to Pisang, where flat roofed houses cling to the crumbling hillside.
Day 10 Pisang to Julu (3500m)
We continue along the valley trail from lower Pisang, climbing to a pass which gives extensive views up the Manang Valley. At Hongde, we leave the main trail and begin our ascent of the little visited Cheggi Khola valley. A gentle ascent through scattered chortens, scrub juniper and stunted pines takes us to the small hamlet to Julu. Sitting on the West bank of the river, ten houses with an entrance kani form this compact community. Half the dwellings are permanently occupied, the others being a summer annex for the people of Manang. A cunning irrigation system allows a healthy collection of fruit trees to survive the arid rain shadow of the Annapurna massif.
Day 11 Julu to Yak Kharka (3750m)
From Julu, we re-cross the Cheggi Khola and climb gently up the West bank. After about an hour, we come to the valley’s final house, a seasonally occupied stone hut surrounded by apple trees. From this point, we have a stunning view up the side valley that reaches up towards Chulu West. The valley floor is interrupted by a sheer 500ft cliff with two spectacular waterfalls pouring over its lip. The path now steepens and we wind our way through the final trees before emerging at a small meadow. Here, yak and wild mountain goats graze together and we pitch camp for the night. This is a short day and we arrive in camp in time for a leisurely lunch and, gazing across to the now stunning views, a myriad of snow capped peaks stretch as far as the eye can see.
Day 12 Yak Kharka to Base Camp (4200m)
Another short day, allowing optimum acclimatization. Our route takes us through steep pastures to a convenient hollow, where meadow merges into rock and scree. This will be our base camp. High above, we can see the site of our high camp and looking out across the main valley, we now get to view the skyward thrust of the Annapurnas.
Day 13 At Base Camp
A rest day to aid acclimatization and sort out our gear.
Days 14 - 16 Base Camp to High Camp (5000m) & Chulu East Summit
Those who are well acclimatized, move up to our high camp, sitting at the top of the terminal moraine of the Chulu glacier. It is a stiff pull up scree and snow slopes, but we arrive to have plenty of time to relax, prepare equipment and strategies for the next day. Our objective dominates the scene and demands our attention again and again. Porters will carry food, tents and equipment up to high camp and return to base camp. Two days have been set aside for the climb of Chulu East (20,305ft / 6200m). A dawn start across the glacier takes us across to the snow and ice slopes that guard the flanks of the South ridge. We tackle these by a direct line up the west side to arrive on the spectacular summit ridge at a small subsidiary summit. The ridge is exposed but not technical and in every direction new peaks crowd our horizon as we gain height. Eventually, we run out of mountain at a small snow dome with steep slopes falling away on all sides. Our high camp has diminished to toy-town stature; it truly feels like the roof of the world. After savoring our precious and hard won summit experience, we descend, possibly using ropes on the steepest sections, to congratulations and copious supplies of tea at high camp. Rested and supremely fulfilled, the descent to base camp passes quickly.
For those not attempting the climb of Chulu East, the walk to Base Camp will provide spectacular views over the Annapurnas, more outstanding than what we would have seen if only following the normal Annapurna route. Our camps will be in superb locations, there is time to explore the area and possibly get up to high camp. This diversion will help enormously with the acclimatization process, in preparation for the crossing of Thorung La.
Day 17 Base Camp to Manang (3511m)
We return to the main trail and head towards Manang via Bragga. We have excellent views of the Annapurna II, III and IV, Gangapurna and Glacier Dome, and the huge ice-fall descending from the Northern slopes of Gangapurna is quite spectacular. Manang is a fascinating medieval village of just over 500 flat-roofed houses, whose entrances are reached from the narrow alleyways by ascending a steep log, notched with steps.
Day 18 Manang to Phedi - Thorung Base Camp (4427m)
Looking back as we climb out of the Marshyangdi valley we have tremendous views of Manaslu, the Annapurnas, Tilicho Peak and the Great Barrier. We head North-West up the Jarsang Khola, through scrub juniper and alpine grasses to arrive at Leder for lunch. From Leder, we continue on the East bank of the Jarsang Khola, before crossing on a covered bridge. The trail climbs on scree slopes high above the river to Phedi, a single stone building set among near vertical cliffs.
Day 19 Phedi to Muktinath (3694m)
Today, we start early from Phedi. The trail becomes steep immediately on leaving camp. As this trail has been used by local people for hundreds of years, the path is well defined. After a while, the gradient eases and it is a steady walk to the Chorten and cairns of the Thorung pass at 17,770ft, which we reach in about 4 hours. The views from here are dramatic. Stretching below are the head of the Kali Gandaki valley and the brown / purple hills of Mustang leading to Tibet. Across the valley is the Tibetan marginal range of mountains and on either side are the pass tower twin 21,270ft peaks. The trail to Muktinath is steep and long 5,000ft of knee jerking descent.
Day 20 Muktinath to Marpha (2665m)
We now begin the descent down the dramatic Kali Gandaki valley, initially through arid country in the same geographical and climatic zone as Tibet. After passing through Jharkot and Khingar, villages with typical Tibetan architecture, we follow the valley floor most of the way to Jomsom, passing beneath vertical rock cliffs. Jomsom sprawls along both banks of the Kali Gandaki and from here we get fine views of the Nilgiri peaks. Still following the river valley we arrive at Marpha, a delightful Thakali village, complete with a fascinating drainage system beneath the flagstone streets. Marpha is particularly well known for its apples, apple cider and rakshi (fermented spirit).
Day 21 Marpha to Lete (2470m)
We continue descending the Kali Gandaki to Tukche, another important Thakali village. From Tukche, we follow the West bank of the Kali Gandaki to Larjung. Here, narrow alleyways and tunnels connect houses with enclosed courtyards, providing protection against the winds blowing up the valley. We climb through pine, juniper and cypress forests, crossing the river twice before reaching Kalopani, with fine views of Annapurna I (26,545ft) and the Fang (25,043ft). Twenty minutes beyond Kalapani lies Lete, from here the trail branches off to the base camp used by Herzog's first ascent of Annapurna.
Day 22 Lete to Tatopani (1160m)
Our trail descends steeply through forests to Ghasa, the last Thakali village and the Southern-most limit of Lama Buddhism. Soon after Ghasa, we enter the steepest and narrowest part of the gorge. At Dana, a Magar village, the large peak of Annapurna South (23,680ft.) can be seen across the valley. The trail then descends to Tatopani, where apple pie awaits and we can bathe in hot springs at the riverside.
Day 23 Tatopani to Ghorepani (2833m)
A short distance down stream from Tatopani, the trail crosses the river on a large suspension bridge, we leave the Kali Gandaki and begin the 5,000ft climb to the pass at Ghorepani. The trail climbs steeply for about 1300ft, and then becomes more gradual through Ghara and on to Sikha, both Magar villages. Continuing through rhododendron forests to the pass, where there are excellent views of Dhaulagiri (26,795ft), the Nilgiris (23,166ft), Annapurna I (26,545ft), Annapurna South (23,680ft), Hiunchuli (21,130ft) and Glacier Dome (23,191ft).
Day 24 Trek to the Road Head & Drive to Pokhara
Today, we 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 we arrange a wake up call at 5 am and head up the well marked track by torchlight. The first light of dawn illuminates Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak with a surreal pink glow. You may be able to buy coffee and breakfast from an enterprising Nepali who has carried his produce up to Poon Hill to take advantage of the morning trade. Otherwise, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast. At this point we are on the main Annapurna Circuit route and there are likely to be lots of travelers passing through this ridge-top settlement in both directions. Ghorepani literally means "horse water" and is a popular stopping place for the mule trains which ply the route from Pokhara to Jomsom and beyond.
After breakfast, we walk downhill for the first couple of hours to Ulleri, through dense forest, passing the occasional lodge in a clearing. Then a steep section, (with 3767 steps), leads down to Hille on the Bhurungdi Khola. A more level stretch, beside the river now, leads eventually to Birethanti.
After half an hour's walk from Birethanti we arrive at the road, and meet up with our transport for the hour long drive back to Pokhara and check into hotel.
Day 25 Fly to Kathmandu
From Pokhara you can either fly or drive to Kathmandu.
Day 26 Depart Kathmandu
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. (Or stay longer for short tours such as game drive at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking, etc. - ask us).
DATES
Available for private group
PRICE
Contact us at
office@explore-himalaya.com
for more information about this tour.
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GENERAL INFORMATION |
TRIP GRADE
Strenuous Trek
This is a long trek that goes far beyond the normal haunts of trekkers and tourists, to remote areas of the country where the landscapes are wild and untamed and where the local inhabitants have seen little change in their way of life for centuries- untouched corners of an increasingly crowded planet. It is physically challenging, likely to include unfavorable weather conditions and strenuous activities, such as, climbing across high passes.
TREKKING TYPE
THE TREK FEATURED IN THIS DOSSIER (CHULU EAST) IS BASED ON A CAMPING TREK BASIS.
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
ACCOMMODATION
Camping trek means sleeping in tents. On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘A’ shaped. Foam mattress with insulation underneath is provided for sleeping. Clients need to have their own sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. If you wish, you can bring your own ‘Air pillow’.
We have a pool of hotels in Kathmandu under 3 Star categories which we provide to clients in connection to this itinerary, unless it is mentioned otherwise or clients have a special choice. You can check on the description of such hotels through our website.
MEALS & DRINKING WATER 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 or pack animals (usually yaks or cross breeds). 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.
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.
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.
On a Camping trek all meals will be provided. You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas) tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places).
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise you to allocate 5 - 10% of the total tour cost as tips.
FLIGHT AND LAND TRANSFERS
From Kathmandu, drive to Gorkha along the Prithvi Highway. The starting point of the trek is Gorkha. On your return, our car/bus shall pick you from Birethanti and drive to Pokhara. You can choose between flying or driving back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport (Kathmandu).
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 Annapurna 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 the 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 best seasons to trek in the Chulu East region are Autumn (from mid-September till November end) and Spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher everyday. The nights are cold (between -20 C to 5C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 30C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Trekking during the monsoon and winter is not recommended, as the visibility during monsoon is limited and high passes are covered with snow during winter.
March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling.
ITINERARY CHANGES
The itineraries for each trip should be taken as a guideline only. Depending on the prevailing situation, you can modify it to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary.
You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative depending on circumstances.
TREK DURATION
We ensure liability as per indicated itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay extra for Hotels/services incurred in Kathmandu or else where 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 of your country. Visa is also issued at entry points. The easiest solution is to get the visa at the Kathmandu airport. You need to provide 2 passport size photographs along with US$30 for a 2 months visa.
HEALTH ISSUES
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.
The main health consideration in high altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them in Kathmandu. For your safety, we also carry the ‘Portable Altitude Chamber’ or ‘Gamow Bag’. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and to handle the low oxygen rate.
For your service, we carry a medical kit with standard prescribed medicines along with a users’ manual which you can use upon your own risk. We do not take any medical liability since our staffs are not qualified to prescribe medicines.
If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for traveling before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly be of help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.
RESCUE / EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu.
INSURANCE
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Explore Himalaya, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible.
As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear strew with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.
TRIP EXTENSIONS
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet, India or Bhutan, whichever seems more appealing to you. Since the trek ends in Pokhara, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal, it would be nice and relaxing for you to spend a day or two taking in the sights and sounds of this scenic city.
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. |
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