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16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek

16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
Product Code: 469222
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
  • 16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
OVERVIEW

Highlights

  • •This classic trek gives you a once in a lifetime chance to get right up close to Everest. It is a tough trek that needs some preparation, but immensely rewarding. We pace the itinerary sensibly with acclimatization days en- route, and time in the Kathmandu Valley at either end of the trek
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Tour Code
469222
Duration
16 day
Departure City
Kathmandu
End City
Kathmandu
Tour Type
Cruise
Language
English
Available options
Check Availability
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IS THIS TOUR FOR ME?

Tour Themes: Adventure, Nature

Explore the world with an active and adrenaline pumping tour; Get in touch with Mother Earth

Tour Type: Guided Tour

Multiple local tour guides/drivers available throughout your tour/activity

Group Size: Small group tour

Take an intimate and semi-private trip with a small group

Activity Level: Challenge

Only the most seasoned travelers with high fitness levels should join

Quality: Budget

The most affordable tour service and/or accommodation with fast-paced itineraries. Eg.Budget hotels, certificated guide, about 10 year safe driving experience driver. Price is about $80.00-$150.00 per day per person.

Itinerary

Adventure tour of Kathmandu valley, Everest Trek

This classic trek gives you a once in a lifetime chance to get right up close to Everest. It is a tough trek that needs some preparation, but immensely rewarding. The journey starts in Kathmandu, where we spend a day touring this incredible city with the evening free to explore at leisure. The next morning we catch an early flight to Lukla to begin our two week journey trekking through the mountains. We pace the itinerary sensibly with acclimatisation days en-route in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. As we climb up through the mountains our days will be rewarded with incredible views of Everest and nighta are spent in comfortable trekking lodges dotted along the way. We make the final push up the Khumbu glacier to our target of Everest Base Camp, W'ell also take a short trek up to Kalar Pattar for the best view of Mount Everest and Lhotse, weather permitting. We then begin our decent winding our way back down the mountains before flying back to Kathmandu. Once back in Kathmandu, we transfer to Bhaktapur to enjoy the beautiful architecture and experience traditional Nepalese life. The next day make the short journey back to Kathmandu, stopping to see Boudhanath Buddhist stupa, and the Hindu pilgrimage temple of Pasupatinath en-route. The evening is free for a final meal in Kathmandu.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel We greet you on your arrival in Kathmandu airport today and transfer you to your hotel in the Thamel tourist district of the city. Our rep will help you settle in and familiarise you with the local area. | OVERNIGHT: Kathmandu - 3 star hotel | EXTRAS: Extra days in Kathmandu, Single room supplement (Kathmandu only) Day 2: Fly to Lukla and start trekking to Phakding Today we catch the short early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) and start trekking to Phakding (2,652m). Descending out of Lukla the trail gently winds its way along the river and serves as an easy introduction to the harder days ahead. We overnight at Phakding at one of the many comfortable trekking lodges. | OVERNIGHT: Phakding - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast | EXTRAS: Trekking Pack Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar The day starts gently as we make our way along the river to the entrance of the Sagamartha National Park, where we will obtain our trekking permits and register with the park authorities. Soon the trail starts to rise for a long climb up to Namche Bazaar (3,446m), where we stop for the night. | OVERNIGHT: Namche Bazaar - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 4: Namche Bazaar. Acclimatisation day Today is a free day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatisation. This colourful Sherpa town is a great place to spend time exploring. There are numerous shops and stalls selling everything from cut price trekking gear to Buddhist prayer flags. Its internet cafes, bakeries and cafes are also popular with the many visitors. Of course, if you’re not too tired, there are plenty of interesting and scenic day walks you can do if wish. We overnight at a lodge in Namche Bazaar. | OVERNIGHT: Namche Bazaar - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thengboche Leaving Namche Bazaar behind our goal today is the village of Thengboche, which lies on top of another ridge. There are several ascents and descents through Rhododendron forests down to the suspension bridge at Phunki Tenga (3,250m). Then we start the climb and it really is a strenuous climb, as now we have to fight against the altitude as well at the steepness of the trail. Eventually we crest the ridge and arrive at Thengboche (3,870m), from where, on a clear day, the views of Everest and Lhotse are magnificent. Thengboche is also the site of a large Buddhist monastery, which is certainly worth a visit. We overnight at a lodge in Thengboche. | OVERNIGHT: Tengboche - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche Today’s trekking takes us through beautiful Rhododendron forests as we follow the river up the Imja valley towards Dingboche. Along this stretch of the trail there is a good possibility of spotting the elusive musk deer, an endangered species indigenous to the area. Leaving the forests behind, we end the day with a steep climb up to Dingboche (4,410m). We overnight at a lodge in Dingboche. | OVERNIGHT: Dingboche - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 7: Dingboche – acclimatisation day We spend the day in Dingboche acclimatising to the high altitude. This beautiful Sherpa village is a patchwork of small fields enclosed by stonewalls and offers wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. If you don’t feel like resting you can head up the valley towards Chukung for even better views. We overnight at a lodge in Dingboche. | OVERNIGHT: Dingboche - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche Climbing up from Dingboche we follow the valley high up on one side until we reach Dughla (4,620m) and the entrance to the Khumbu valley. Heading up the Khumbu valley, a steep climb takes us over the Thokla Pass (4,830m) then we follow the edge of the glacial moraine onto Lobuche (4,910m). We overnight at a lodge in Lobuche. | OVERNIGHT: Lobuche - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and Kalar Pattar (flexible day) As we continue along the Khumbu valley the unfolding mountain panoramas are quite simply breathtaking. Reaching the Lobuche Pass (5,110m) we continue onto Gorak Shep (5,140m), where we take a welcome break from the altitude before making our short but steep ascent of Kalar Pattar (5,550m). This view point is the perfect place to take in the full majesty of the surrounding mountains. We overnight at a lodge in Gorak Shep. We keep our itinerary for today and tomorrow flexible, depending on the weather and how people are handling the altitude. | OVERNIGHT: Gorak Shep - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 10: Trek from Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp (flexible day) Today we continue up the edge of the Khumbu glacier until we finally reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m). If you’re lucky and the timing is right you may see expeditions preparing to climb Mount Everest. After spending some time to enjoy the surroundings and the completion of our goal, we make our way back down to Lobuche. We overnight at a lodge in Lobuche. | OVERNIGHT: Lobuche - trekking lodge | MEALS: Breakfast Day 11-13: Trek from Lobuche to Lukla via Devoche and Namche Bazaar From Lobuche we head back down the trail via Namche Bazaar to Lukla. Having acclimatised well to the altitude the trekking becomes much easier as we make our way back down to Lukla, and there is plenty of time to take in the beauty of our surroundings. We overnight at lodges in Namche Bazaar and Lukla. | OVERNIGHT: Trekking lodges | MEALS: Breakfast Day 14: Finish trek, and fly to Kathmandu This morning we catch the flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, where we transfer back to your hotel for some welcome relaxation and a celebratory evening drink and meal. | OVERNIGHT: Kathmandu - hotel | MEALS: Breakfast Day 16: Kathmandu. Free time. Transfer to airport Your last day in Kathmandu is free for you to catch up on some last minute souvenir shopping and exploring before we transfer you to the airport for your flight home. | OVERNIGHT: N/A | MEALS: Breakfast

Visiting Attractions

  • Kathmandu Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu Kathmandu
  • Everest South Base Camp Everest South Base Camp
WHAT'S INCLUDED

Package Includes

  • All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
  • All transport and transfers, including 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
  • Services of a trekking guide and porters throughout the trek
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • All entrance fees to sites visited in the itinerary
  • Tips for drivers

Package Excludes

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Single room supplements (chargeable if a same-sex room share is not available)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary (budget approx. US$250 for lunches & dinners on the trek)
  • Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Tips for trekking guide and porters
  • Any other items not mentioned above
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Special Notes
  • Accommodation
    Hotels in Kathmandu
    We use comfortable tourist class hotels in Kathmandu (approx. 3 star).
    Trekking with lodges
    For this lodge-based trek, we will use a variety of Lodges and Teahouses. In recent years many new lodges have sprung up and many offer quite good facilities and amenities. However, in some areas the lodges can be run on a very simple basis where toilets and washing facilities are outside the building. We can’t promise that you will always have full amenities all the time, so you should understand this before embarking on this trek.

    Staying in lodges gives you more comfort overnight than camping, and also allows you to meet up with and talk with other trekkers and guides at the end of the day. It also allows us to put more back into the local economies than if we were bringing everything with us.

    Rooms in lodges are normally based on same sex sharing of twin rooms (though couples will be able to share). Some sheets & blankets are provided but a sleeping bag is still required. We provide the option to hire a sleeping bag in our trekking pack option, though you may still wish to bring your own inner sleeping bag liner or sleep sheet if you wish. Warm showers are available for a small fee at most lodges, though these may be bucket showers higher up.
  • Meals
    Hotels in Kathmandu
    Breakfasts only are provided in the Kathmandu hotel. Kathmandu has a wealth of restaurants serving excellent food from all over the world, so you will never be short of ideas or places to eat within a short walk of the hotel.

    Trekking with lodges
    Breakfasts are included on the trek, based on breakfast items from the menu plus one drink. You may add to these if you wish, but a substantial and hearty breakfast is always provided. You will need to buy your own lunches and dinners and you’ll find that the lodges along the route provide a surprisingly good selection of food and drink. In places the menu may be limited but the food is always nourishing and wholesome. To protect the limited resources available in trekking areas (particularly with regard to fuel) we politely suggest that you either eat the same items as the guide / porters, or as the rest of your group, and that groups do not order too many different items from the menu. We suggest that you budget around US$250 to cover the cost of all the meals not included while on your trek.

    Water & Drinks
    It is very important that you drink lots of water and remain well hydrated during this, and any trek. We recommend you refrain from drinking much alcohol during the trek. This all helps your general wellbeing and helps prevent against the symptoms of altitude sickness. You can buy bottled water at most of the lodges along the route and tap water is also available but should be treated. Waste caused by using lots of plastic water bottles is a perenniel problem in the Himalayas and other trekking areas. We therefore recommend that you carry your own water bottle (or two) and refill it each day at the lodges you pass or from springs or streams your guide suggests are OK to use. Any water collected this way should be treated either with a water filter or with purification tablets. These are all available to buy in many trekking shops in Kathmandu if you don't want to bring them with you. You can also get cheap powdered flavourings to remove the taste of purification tablets.
  • Transport
    We use private cars or minibuses for all the main transfers & journeys on this tour. An internal flight is used for the journeys between Kathmandu and Lukla. A variety of transport including jeeps, elephants & canoes is used if you visit Chitwan.

    Note: The Kathmandu-Lukla flight is subject to delays due to bad weather. On the rare occasion that the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla be delayed by more than a day or two, an alternative trekking route will be offered, normally in the Annapurna region. We build a free day in Kathmandu into all our treks that fly back from Lukla to allow for possible delays or cancelled flights and strongly recommend that you aim for your international flights to leave in the afternoon/evening of the final day of the tour or to book flexible/changeable flights to protect against more extended delays.
  • Transfers
    This tour include a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service at Kathmandu airport and all other transfers. There will be a collection of people waiting on the far side of an airport service road immediately in front of you. Please look out for an Encounters Travel signboard to find our representative. You will be pestered for tips by porters who try to carry your luggage. We suggest you either be firm and insist on carrying your own luggage, or if you want assistance, wait until you have met our representative and then let him arrange the porter for you. You will need to have some money ready for a small tip (eg. up to NRs 50 or a single US Dollar bill).

    Your airport transfers are only included on the first and last day of the set tour itinerary, plus on any additional days if you book your hotel room with us. If you make your own arrangements for additional accommodation at either the beginning or the end of the tour then you will need to arrange your own airport transfers on these days.
  • International Flights
    We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people with varying travel plans, we don't include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to book your flights for you, and our ATOL (UK flight sales license) covers all holidays booked together with a flight from the UK.

    Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we'll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from. Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour whether you book your flights independently or through us. Most of our Nepal tours start and finish at Kathmandu airport (KTM).
  • Internal Flights
    Please note that all Nepalese airlines operating domestic routes in the country are currently on the European Commission's list of airlines banned in the EU. This includes those running Everest viewing flights and flights to Lukla for the start of the Everest Base Camp trek.

    Along with these Everest flights we do offer some other domestic flights on some of our tours, either as part of the itinerary or as an upgrade in place of a land transfer. Where this is the case we are careful to select airlines that have a good current reputation in Nepal.
  • Group Size/Tour Leaders/Guides
    Group size
    We are committed to being a small group operator, as we feel this gives everyone in the group the best chance to get to know their fellow travellers and to hear and make the most of their guide. There’s no point in us providing great guides if you’ve got to peer over 30-40 shoulders to see them! We also don’t want you to feel like you’re walking up the mountains in a great long line of people. So, we set our Nepal trekking group departures to have a maximum of 12 travellers. On some dates we may run several groups alongside each other, but they will be kept independent with their own guides and porters. In these cases we may adjust the group make-up en-route based on the speed of different people’s walking. You should always be prepared to walk at the pace of the slowest member of the group. Fitness does not relate to the chance of getting altitude sickness and fast walkers may find they are among the slowest in the group at high altitude (and vice versa).

    Guides
    Fully trained English-speaking Nepalese trekking guides are provided on this tour and many of our travellers consider them a highlight of their tour. We also provide a fully trained English-speaking guide for any sightseeing tours. For groups of 1-6 travellers we provide one trekking guide plus porters, and for groups of 7 to 12, two guides are provided plus porters.

    Porters
    This is a supported trek, and we provide porters to carry your main bag. All you will need to carry is a small day-pack containing a water bottle/camera/snacks/clothes you may take on and off during the day. You can leave a bag with some of your luggage locked securely in the hotel in Kathmandu. We support and follow international guidelines for the employment of any trekking porters we use, including those of the IPPG (International Porter Protection Group). Generally we use one porter per 2 trekkers though this will vary slightly on occasion depending on the make up of the group.

    At Encounters Travel we only use local Nepali guides and reps. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing.
  • Fees and Permits
    All your entry fees and permits are included in the price of the tour to cover entry into the trekking conservation areas, and sites on any optional city tours added.
  • Trekking
    The trekking times given above are approximate, and will vary depending on your fitness, and also importantly, on the speed you want to walk. We will normally set off early in the morning, and have plenty of breaks during the day, before finishing trekking in mid-late afternoon. Some days will be longer than others, and your guide will let you know when there is a long day ahead.

    Acclimatisation days are added into all our itineraries where required, and these cannot be missed out. You can however, slightly adjust the itinerary as you go along if you are struggling on a particular day, or you want to forge ahead. If travelling with a group, you should be prepared to walk at the speed of the slowest member.

    We have graded this trek as: DIFFICULT:

    “A serious trek, where we would expect you to have had previous trekking experience and to prepare in advance. You should be very confident of your trekking ability and be prepared to walk some long days perhaps on a steep climb (or descent). You may also have to walk difficult terrain or at high altitude for a number of days. This is definitely the kind of trek where you are more likely to experience extremes of altitude and/or weather.”

    You will need to prepare in advance for this trek and we will provide you with a simple training guide. We will also ask you to complete a simple questionnaire about your fitness which will help us to advise you on how best to prepare.

    Due to the nature of the trek we set a minimum age of 15 on our group departures on this tour. If you have a family with younger children then please contact us and we will be able to offer options to do the trek privately.
  • Health and Vaccinations
    You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

    Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:

    Nepal: Additional vaccinations: Diptheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
    Bhutan: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
    Tibet: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.

    Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting. In general the lowland regions Bhutan are considered malarial zones, while higher altitudes including central Bhutan including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Bumthang are not. Nepal is considered mainly low risk with prophylactics not normally required.

    Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vaccination may be required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have traveled or transited through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view a World Health Organisation map of areas where the virus is present in monkeys and therefore a potential risk to humans. Please ensure you have this certificate with you and to hand if necessary. Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have.
  • Passports and Visas - Nepal
    Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.

    Many nationals can obtain their Nepalese visa in Kathmandu airport upon arrival (including UK, EU, US, CA, AU, NZ, SA citizens). The costs for a multiple entry visa are currently:
    - up to 15 days - US$ 25
    - 16 to 30 days - US$ 40
    - 31 to 90 days - US$ 100

    The visa is obtained in the immigration area at the point where your passport is stamped. Forms to fill in are available in this immigration hall and may also be given out on your flight (if so, do fill them in before you land as it will reduce your queuing time). You will also need to fill in an arrivals card. Once your paperwork is completed, head to the immigration desk and hand over your forms, 2 passport photos, visa fee and passport. The visa fees are set in US Dollars, but you can also pay in other currencies, but don't rely on getting given change.

    Passport Photos: You will need two passport photos for your Nepal visa if you are obtaining it on arrival. If you are doing any trekking, rafting or visiting a National Park (i.e. nearly all of our tours), you must bring with you several passport photos, as some of the permits we need to get require these. Please bring at least 4 passport photos with you - they will always come in useful later if you don't need them all.
  • Time
    The time in India and Sri Lanka is GMT plus 5 1/2 hours.

    The time in Nepal is GMT plus 5 3/4 hours.

    The time in Bhutan is GMT plus 6 hours.

    The time in Tibet is GMT plus 8 hours.

    Daylight saving adjustments are not applied.
  • Acclimatisation and Altitude Sickness
    The tour reaches an altitude of over 5000m and we therefore build in several acclimatisation days and plan the daily walking schedule to take account of the effects that spending time at high altitude can have on you. These acclimatisation days are compulsory; you may not miss them out and push on ahead even if you think you are feeling fine at the time or you want to shorten the tour.

    Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can develop at any altitude over 2000 meters. The early symptoms are headache, extreme fatigue, and loss of appetite. Some people become breathless at rest. AMS is the result of fluid accumulating in parts of the body where it does not belong: in the brain, in the lungs, or both. When mild symptoms develop, it is a signal that you must stay at that altitude or descend until symptoms have gone away. Never ascend with any symptoms of AMS!

    Most people reaching altitudes above 3000m and certainly above 3500m will experience some breathlessness, mild headaches, and poor sleep patterns. Other common symptoms include lack of appetite, increased urination (though you should be drinking a lot so should expect this anyway), strange dreams, tightness in the chest and fatigue. However, few people get very severe symptoms or go on to develop acute altitude sickness (AMS) which requires medical treatment.

    If you are male and/or unfit/unhealthy and/or older (60s, 70s, 80s) then you are more likely to be affected than if you are female and/or fit & healthy and/or younger. However, there is no hard and fast rule and there are plenty of exceptions to these generalisations.

    To try and minimise the effects of altitude, we recommend that you:

    • Ensure you keep warm
    • Don’t take any baths or showers for your first couple of days at altitude
    • Don’t smoke
    • Eat more fruit & vegetables than normal
    • Breathe deeply but normally – don’t be tempted to gasp and hyperventilate
    • Drink lots of water (several litres) before you leave low altitude, and carry on drinking a lot of water while at high altitude.
    • Don’t rush – walk slowly and don’t exert yourselves. Taking things easy and slowly really helps prevent mountain sickness
    • Don’t drink alcohol

    Tell each other and your guide how you are feeling as time goes on (this helps others spot if symptoms are becoming severe)

    People with serious heart disease should not visit high altitudes, and people with light heart troubles should check with their doctor and follow their advice , as should people with high or low blood pressure.

    More severe symptoms that may require medical treatment or an early descent to a lower altitude include severe and persistent headaches, nausea & vomiting, disorientation and loss of co-ordination, irrational behaviour. If you do experience any of these, make sure you tell each other and your guide straight away.

    Trekking and Altitude Sickness
    If you are trekking with us then you should keep your guide informed at all times of any symptoms you may be developing, especially headaches and breathlessness while at rest. You may need to spend a night or two at the same altitude before continuing your trek. All our trekking tours have acclimatisation days built into the itinerary where necessary to help with this. Usually within one or two days you will feel well and can continue your trek. On private tours, your guide will adjust your itinerary to try and ensure the normal route can be achieved, though this may not always be possible. On group tours, the group may delay their ascent if the itinerary allows, or a porter or second guide may remain with you until the group descends and rejoins you, or you try and ascend to catch up later. If you are resting at the same altitude and your symptoms are becoming worse, then it is necessary to descend. Worsening symptoms of AMS including increasing tiredness, severe headache, vomiting, and loss of coordination. These are signs of High Altitude Cerebral Edema (or HACE). HACE can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours if progressive symptoms are ignored. Increasing shortness of breath, cough, and tiredness are signs of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HAPE. HAPE can also be rapidly fatal if ignored.

    A person suffering from AMS may not have clear thinking and may have to be forced to descend. You accept that our guides have the final decision on whether you should descend and that ignoring their advice constitutes leaving the tour. Even if someone is willing to descent they should never be allowed to descend alone and one of our porters or a second guide will accompany you. Keep descending until the person shows some sign of improvement, usually after 300-500 meters of descent. Even if the diagnosis is not clear, but might be AMS, you should descend. You can always re-ascend when you feel better.

    It is best to start descending while the person who is ill can still walk. In Nepal, if the person can no longer walk, a yak or horse might be obtained. Porters can often be found to carry a sick person down. Do not wait for a helicopter. If you choose to administer oxygen or medications do not delay the descent to watch for improvement.

    In summary, if you are not doing well at altitude, most likely you have some mild symptoms of AMS. Rest at the same altitude until you feel well. If you are getting worse at the same altitude, descend to at least the last point at which you felt well. If you are not sure of the diagnosis, err on the side of being too cautious. Remember severe altitude sickness is entirely preventable if you follow these guidelines.

    Costs for changing itineraries:
    If you are not able to complete your trek or tour for any reason and choose to return back down early, then you may be liable to pay for extra accommodation and transport costs (see our booking conditions for full details). We try to be as flexible and helpful as possible in these cases, and will aim to arrange some lower altitude trekking or other tours during the time you would have spent at higher altitude. You must ensure that you have travel insurance that will cover you for any extra costs incurred due to symptoms or treatment or altitude sickness, and that your policy will cover you to the altitudes reached on your tour.
  • Voltage
    Sockets are mainly two round pronged and 230 volts (Type C,D,M). Universal adapters are available in most airport shops if you don't have one already. Standard European adapters will work fine, though sometimes they may feel a little loose in the sockets. All hotel rooms have electrical sockets where you can re-charge cameras, phones etc. Hair dryers are sometimes available on request from the hotel reception if not in your room already but cannot be guaranteed.
    If you have US appliances (110 volts) you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter.
  • Money
    The local currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NRs). There are a banks and several ATMs in Kathmandu where you can use a debit/credit card to withdraw cash (Visa, Mastercard), but these are not generally available out of Kathmandu or Pokhara. There are numerous money change shops in the main towns. Travelers cheques can be changed in some banks in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but not elsewhere.
    You should ensure you have all the Nepalese rupees you think you will need before you leave for any trekking or visiting any more remote areas (including Bardia National Park). Try to obtain as many small denomination notes as possible, as higher value notes can be very hard to change in remote areas. You can pay with US Dollars cash in some places but should not rely on this.
  • What to take
    Luggage: Whatever you're doing in Nepal, Tibet or Bhutan, you'll find that large rigid wheeled suitcases are cumbersome - you may be able to wheel them inside the airport and your hotel, but due to the condition of roads and pavements that's often about it. As many of our tours involve a degree of adventurous activity, we strongly advise you to bring a more practical bag for these i.e. a rucksack or holdall. These are easier for both your porters, and yourself to carry around. Suitcases are OK for our cultural tours in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan though, but please aim to bring small or medium sized ones rather than very large. If you are trekking or rafting, or doing a lot of travel throughout the country, then as little as possible is the basic message. A rucksack or holdall (50-70 liter approx.) for your main luggage, and a daypack for you to use during the day should be plenty. While rafting we only take essential kit on board the rafts, and your main luggage will travel by bus to the take-out point. While trekking your porters (Nepal) or ponies (Bhutan) will carry your main luggage, leaving you with just a daypack with things you'll need during the day. You can also leave some luggage locked safely in the pre-trek hotel if you wish. We recommend that couples plan to leave one main bag behind, and pool their remaining luggage in their other bag for the porter to carry.

    Luggage limits: Most international airlines allow 20-23kg per person of hold luggage. Domestic flights often have smaller allowances around 15kg. As airline rules vary we recommend that you take no more than 20kg of luggage if your tour just includes international flights, and no more than 15kg if there are any domestic flights included in your itinerary. Please ask us for details if you are unsure. Any excess baggage fees will be your responsibility to cover. Most airlines allow between 5kg and 10kg for hand luggage so we suggest that you take no more than 5kg unless you have confirmed that your airline(s) will allow more than this.

    If you are trekking with us, we ask that you keep the weight of your main bag that the porter will carry to a maximum of 12.5kg. This then allows the porter to carry up to 2 bags, and a maximum of 25kg (the International Porter Protection group's advised limit for Nepal is 30kg, which then leaves a little more weight for their own kit). This weight allowance includes your sleeping bag if you are hiring it from us and not carrying it with you to Nepal
    If you are doing an Everest trek and flying from Kathmandu to Lukla, then flight luggage limits are 10kg for your main bag and 5kg for hand luggage - total 15kg. You can re-arrange that after you arrive in Lukla. Please keep to these limits as while you can pay for extra weight, it may be held back until the next flight which may then be delayed or cancelled.
    Treks in Bhutan follow the same weight limits for your ponies.
    You may leave other luggage securely locked in your hotel during the trek. If you are travelling as a couple then we suggest you leave one main bag in Kathmandu and share the other main bag that the porter will then carry.

    Clothing & Climate: Nepal and Bhutan have a climate that ranges widely depending on when you visit, and where you are visiting.
    - Autumn - late Sep-Nov: The weather is good and very warm, with lots of sunshine, getting quite hot during the day in lowland regions. It will still be cold at night at higher altitudes if you are trekking. Shorts & T-shirts are fine while you are walking, but you should still bring warmer clothes for the evenings. There is a good chance of rain in September and early October, so bring a waterproof.
    - Winter - Dec-Feb: It will be pleasant in lowland regions with very little rain, but will be cooler at night. Long trousers and shirts are advised during the day, and you will need warm clothes in the evenings. If you are trekking, then it will be cold during the day, and extremely cold at night, particularly at higher altitudes. Several warm layers are recommended so you can regulate your comfort as you walk, including a waterproof, even if only to protect from cold winds. We include thick down jackets in our optional trekking packs for comfort in the evenings at higher altitudes.
    - Spring - Mar-May: The weather is very pleasant during the spring, and again shorts & t-shirts are fine while you are walking. There is a higher chance of rain as the season progresses, so a thin waterproof is recommended in case. It gets very hot and humid in the lowlands from May onwards.
    - Monsoon - Jun-mid Sep: It will be hot and sticky during these months, with lots of rain, so come prepared accordingly if you are visiting during these months - gaiters are highly recommended if you are trekking to keep out leeches.

    A huge variety of cheap trekking gear is available in Kathmandu (fleeces, waterproofs etc.) and buying some here can save you carrying it with you, and support the local economy. However, you should definitely bring your own walking boots.

    Modesty rates highly in Nepal and Bhutan especially for women, so please ensure all clothes are loose fitting and not too revealing. You'll find the Bhutanese dress fairly smartly or in national dress, so you will stand out even more if you look scruffy.

    Whilst rafting:

    On the raft: Shorts, Tevas (sandals) or trainers, baseball style cap to keep the sun off your face, sunglasses with a strap to keep them on your head, swimwear, sarong for women, sun-cream, lip balm, water bottle, several t-shirts.
    Note: All footwear on a raft should be rubber soled, and of the type that will not come off easily.
    Off the raft: Long trousers, warm sleeping bag (provided, but you may want to bring a sheet sleeping bag as well), petzel type head torch, warm jacket/fleece, dry shoes, boots, warm socks, towel, warm long sleeved shirt, toiletries.
    Cameras: You can take cameras on the raft, and we endeavour to keep that sort of kit dry in waterproof bags. But there is always an element of risk of getting the camera wet.
    What you shouldn't take on the raft: All the rest of your kit and you're your valuables. We will make arrangements for their transport to your take-out point.

    Whilst trekking:

    Suggested Clothing and equipment: Strong hiking boots or walking shoes that you have broken in; Good sized rucksack or holdall; 3 to 4-season sleeping bag (only if you want to use your own rather than the one provided in our optional trekking pack); silk or cotton sleeping bag liner; lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket; (waterproof gaiters, waterproof over trousers - these are only necessary on some treks in some seasons - contact us for further info if required); 3 or 4 t-shirts; small day pack; several pairs of light socks; 2 pairs of heavier woollen socks; underwear including thermals; warm hat and gloves; swimwear; pair of lightweight trousers; pair of shorts; 1 fleece or warm jumper and 1 sweatshirt. Also, sunglasses, torch and batteries, toiletries (include a lighter to burn toilet paper), bring biodegradable shampoo & soap, towel, blister kit, money belt and any personal medication you might require. Remember, Lots of layers are the key to staying warm and comfortable. Also, keeping your feet comfortable and healthy makes a huge difference to how you enjoy your trek. So, bring waterproof boots/walking shoes and plenty of pairs of socks so you can change them regularly.
    Day Packs and Main luggage: You will want a sturdy and comfortable daypack to carry your day-to-day items with you while you are walking (clothes you may change in and out of regularly, drinks, snacks, camera). You will also need a sturdy holdall or backpack for your main luggage. Your porters or ponies will carry this for you, so suitcases are not appropriate. They may leave earlier than you, and may not walk with you throughout the entire day, so bear in mind that you won't have access to this luggage all the time - you need to ensure you are carrying everything you require during the days walk in your daypack. You can leave luggage behind in storage at your hotel so you don't need to take everything with you on the trek.

    Whilst in the game parks:

    You should bring long trousers and long-sleeved shirts for jungle walks and travel within the park. Please ensure these are of drab colours to avoid drawing attention. Sunglasses and sun-hats are advisable for hot and bright days. Mosquito repellent is highly recommended. Binoculars are extremely useful at any of Nepal's National Parks, and are not generally available for hire locally. Don't forget fast film for those jungle shots and moving animals/birds. A good cleaning kit is essential as these items are unavailable once at the park. It is also better to take quality film, either from home or Kathmandu into the parks, and to ensure you have a spare fully charged battery and memory card.

    All tours: We recommend that you bring a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a basic first aid kit, toiletries, money belt, small torch, camera & charger.
  • Travel Insurance
    Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event). More information...

    You may arrange your own insurance, or you can take advantage of a comprehensive policy that we can arrange for you through Endsleigh Insurance which has been designed to be suitable for our tours. The policy is available to travellers of all nationalities and you do not need to live in the UK to take out the policy. For full details of cover provided, prices and to apply for one of our policies, please complete travel insurance application form.

    Note: Any country that borders the Mediterranean is considered as 'Europe' for the purposes of travel insurance (including Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Morocco). If you are doing a tour that visits one country in 'Europe' and one that is 'Worldwide' (for example, an Egypt and Jordan tour), then you need a 'Worldwide' policy. When completing the form you should enter your travel dates including any extra days involved in overnight flights or connecting travel between your home and the tour. Our policies are not able to cover any extra time or activities other than your tour and options booked with us and your travel to & from home.

    If you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally, or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

    If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

    IMPORTANT: We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour. If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.
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Cancellation Policy

Please see the Available Options section above for any details about cancellation policies.

Pricing Info

Your reservation is always subject to confirmation by email, normally within one to two business days.

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Reservation Info

    1.Immediately after submitting your reservation you will receive a Receipt of Reservation via email.
    2. Within one to two business days of submitting your reservation you will receive a status update email from us. If you need to book an airline ticket, we recommend that you do so after you receive a confirmation of your tour reservation from us.
    3. An E-Ticket will be sent to you via email as soon as details of your reservation are confirmed or your supporting information is received by us. We will provide you with all detailed information about your tour on the E-Ticket. Contact information for local tour provider will be included on E-Ticket for your convenience or re-confirmation purpose if re-confirmation is required.
    4. Simply print your E-Ticket and present it with your valid photo ID on the day of your activity to your tour guide. Please remember E-Ticket is your proof of purchase.

Terms and Conditions

    - Your purchase does not guarantee confirmation. Your purchase will initiate a reservation process. We will confirm with you via email within one to two business days.
    - Prices may vary due to availability. We reserve the right to make price adjustment without prior notice.
    - Please refer to our Standard Amendment, Cancellation and Refund Policy before you make reservation.
    - Please refer to Customer Agreement before you make reservation.
    - Local tour provider reserves the right to make modifications to tour arrangements including order of tour activities, hotel and its location if deemed necessary.
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