NEPAL

Nepal is blessed with abundant natural beauties and different cultural heritage which has made it one of the best places for tourism. It has some of the marvelous trekking and hiking trails in the world so it is the ultimate destination for Trekking enthusiast.
“Trekking” refers to common walk along the Himalayan trails. Exploring Nepal can range from easy walking excursions to a strenuous climb of the snowy peaks; here is whatever you desire for Trekking through different parts of Nepal is the best way to experience the country’s natural beauty and riches cultural. We will walk together and experience the immense contrasts in altitude and climates, which support an equally spectacular variety of lifestyles and flora and fauna. Walking through this idyllic scenery with the towering Himalayas as a backdrop makes for an unforgettable adventure. We offer treks on many popular trails as well as those that wander off the beaten track. Most trekking in Nepal does not require any climbing experience. Anyone with good health and a love for the outdoors can go trekking. Though a day's trek can involve a fair amount of uphill trails & descents, the trekkers are free to set their own pace. So trekking in Nepal is a wonderful way to explore and make meaningful contact with ethnic cultures untouched by modernity, vast tracts of virgin forest land and a degree of bio-diversity unknown elsewhere.

1. WHERE TO TREK

Nepal is home eight highest peaks in the world, including Mt. Everest, snow fed Himalayan rivers, valleys teeming with vegetation, mid hills, plains, pristine glaciers, alpine and rhododendrons forests, high mountain passes are some of the attractions for Nepal Trekking. The entire length and breadth of the Kingdom is a paradise for trekkers. There are easy walks lasting a few days and there are strenuous expeditions that take several weeks. All of them consists marvelous scenery. Here are some popular destinations:

Annapurna. The most popular trekking route in Nepal, you will be walking through rhododendron forests over the foothills of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The Kali Ghandaki Gorge, the deepest in the world, and Lake Tilicho (4,919 m), the highest lake, are located here. Treks to the Annapurna region start from the lake-side resort town of Pokhara. (Maximum elevation covered on the trek is 5,416 m).

Everest. The highest mountain in the world continues to lure adventurers as ever. A astound flight lands you at the airstrip of Lukla (2,850 m) from where you begin walking to the famous Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar and on to Tengboche monastery with the mesmerizing peak of Ama Dablam hovering in the sky. Then it's over the glaciers to the foot of Everest for the experience of a lifetime (maximum elevation 5,546m)

Langtang. The third most popular trekking region in the Kingdom lies directly to the north of Kathmandu. The Gosaikund lakes situated here are a much-revered Hindu pilgrimage site. Langtang offers baffling extremes in topography and climate conditions. In just one day you can traverse five different vegetation zones trekking from the subtopics to timberline (maximum elevation 4,480).

Remote areas. For those who want to get off the beaten track, there is the trail to Mustang (maximum elevation 5,400 m) north of the Annapurna range which offers breathtaking landscapes and mystical cultures. Manaslu in west-central Nepal (maximum elevation 5,213m) offers a diverse range of pristine eco-systems. Makalu in the eastern part of the country (maximum elevation 5,350 m) takes you through isolated valleys and high mountain passes to the base of the fifth highest peak on earth. Dolpo in northwest Nepal (maximum elevation 4500 m) captivates visitors with its Phoksundo Lake and incomparable scenery.

2. CLASSIFICATION OF TREKKING ROUTES AND EXPEDITION

The trekking routes can be classified into roughly four categories. The northern region encompasses mainly Gosaikund, langtang Valley and Helambu; the eastern region includes Everest Base Camp along with Namche Bazaar and Solukhumbu. The central region comprises all treks starting from Pokhara; they are Manang, Mustang, Jomsom, Muktinath and the Annapurna sanctuary treks; and the western region includes Surkhet, Dolpa, Jumla and Rara Lake. The length of the treks in Nepal can vary from one or two days to those that last for weeks and even a whole month.

Mountaineering is an entirely different kind of adventure which is for the daring and diehard adventurer. Mountaineering can be done in two ways. The first is by climbing what are known as expedition peaks which are climbed after getting a special permit for a specified route. The rest are classified as trekking peaks, which range in height from 5,587 m to 6,654. The trekking peaks are mostly concentrated in the Khumbu and Annapurna regions. There are number of peaks in Khumbu region which can prepare you for climbing higher mountains.

3. GRADING OF TREKKING

Treks are graded into four categories on the basis of challenge and difficulty level to provide you the rough ideas on the trekking routes you choose. The classification is determined according to altitudes covered, degree of difficulty, length of trek, and the number of hours of walking required each day.

01. Easy Treks (E)
Himalayan standards are generally between 900m and 2,000m and the numbers of the trekking days are shorter with only two to five hours walking per day. There are always plenty of 'ups & downs' everywhere in the Himalayan so guests need to be regular walkers.

02. Moderate Treks (M)
These treks involve walking about five to six hours, up to 4,000m. Some portion in treks included here will be away from villages on ill-defined mountain trails. A moderate physical preparation is recommended.

03. Strenuous treks (S)
On these treks, you will be walking about six to seven hours each day. The altitude will sometimes reach up to 5,500m and high pass crossing over and the treks may be of several weeks’ duration often in remote alpine areas. You have to be in very good physical shape and there will be some really laborious days on the trail. A strong physical preparation is recommended.

04. Climbing/ Technical Treks (T).
These extremely demanding treks are for weathered veterans and hard-core adventurers. You will be in very remote mountainous areas and the trails sometimes reach altitude in excess of 5,500m. The treks will involve crossing high mountain passes and even include climbing a "trekking peak". Participants should have at least a basic knowledge of the use of crampons and ice axe, though first time climbers may be accepted on some of the "easy" routes. Medical certificates are required for acceptance into these climbing treks.

4. PREPARING FOR A TREK

Even on an easy trek, the trekkers will require to walks about 4 to 6 hours daily on uneven terrain and therefore they must be used to regular exercise. If you have a spirit of adventure and enjoy walking and are reasonably fit, then you can go for trekking. Those with any cardiac or pulmonary history are required to obtain their physician's clearance before going for any trekking. Above all fair mentality for trek is most important. It is important to remember that people in the mountains have different values and attitudes than those of the western world. Consequently they must accept this as a part of a trekking experience. Going into mountains and remote areas with preconceived ideas or values and attitudes is firmly not recommended and will definitely bring lots of disappointments during treks.

Walking Uphill!

Just take it easy-the young and the male please take special note: there is nothing to gain from a heroic start followed by an exhausted withdrawal after the first few days. Get there at your own pace; it does not really matter when. The acclimatization process will make you breathless on long uphill sections, predominant on the outward trek. If you follow this advice you can minimize this. Keep a slow steady rhythm, take steps half the size you think you should, breathe deliberately deeper even before you are breathless, do not be temped to speed up as soon as you think you can! Find your won sustainable pace. Zigzag on the path to minimize gradient-watch how the Sherpas do it, they know! The many short breaks, not a few long one. Enjoy the countryside.

Going Downhill!

Please take it very easy, muscular ache from uphill will ease after a few still mornings but knee cartilage damage from jolting downhill can take weeks to mend, either ending your trek or making it very painful. Keep the brake on! Porters will bound downhill on rubber legs – please do no try to copy them, their training as been a bit more specialized then yours. Do not let yourself drop from step to step, lover yourself as much as possible on the back foot. Try to put your feet down gently, making as little sound (therefore impact) as possible. Stop and rest your knees regularly. Enjoy the countryside!

Path finding

The sherpa leader will stay with the center of the group for most the time, so for most people there should be little problem. Anyone out in front should only proceed if they are 100% certain of the route. Try asking ‘……..jaane, kun baato ho? (…….going to, which part is it ?. if you are sure of the name of the next place. Never just say but the name and point questioningly down the route you think it is. The locals will hate to contradict you ! Any stragglers should also ask but the leader will leave a fresh, distinct arrow on the path itself at any ambiguous junction, with sometime a cross on the path not to take. If it is really complicated, he will wait. Our sherpas have uncanny shepherding instincts; generally the only people who get lost are those who proceed without waiting for clarification. Going past lunch or night stops is most common. Our yellow logo sticker is displayed as clearly as possible at most night stop lodges and regular lunch stops-keeps your eyes open for them.

5. TYPES OF TREKS WE OPERATE

Fully organized (Camping) Trek This is a massive arrangement, rather expensive but the only way to enjoy the trekking in real sense. We provides all camping and kitchen equipments, porters (yaks or ponies) for carrying camping gears and foodstuff; Sherpa's to set the camp, cook and serve meals with the Sirdar, as the leader to take controls of all. All you have to carry is a small daypack with whatever you think you might need during the day. This way we are able to set our own pace and travel through places untouched by mass tourism. When you reach camp, efficient support staffs pitch the tents, the cooks fix delicious semi-Western type meals, and the trek leader briefed you about the local culture and customs.

Teahouse (Lodge) Trek - TOn popular trekking routes (Annapurna, Langtang and Everest region), there are local lodges/ inns where accommodation and meals can be arranged which is refer as "tea house treks". These treks are cheaper compare to the organized one. These lodges are quite basic offering twin sharing small room and may not have proper shower/toilet facilities. All meals will be provided in the same lodges cooked by the lodge owners during trek. The food could be simple and less variety but hygienic. These treks are operated with a guide (Sirdar) and porters (as per requirement) to carry your personal belongings. As it is not possible to book these lodges in advance from Kathmandu due to lack of communication facilities, the guide will look for the best available lodge as they arrive the designated village stop. The guide decides for meals and the lodges for overnight stay. In winter and summer lodge treks are better to avoid the inclement weather. In autumn and spring the lodges are overcrowded so the clients may also have to be accommodated in dormitories when it will be difficult to find a place to throw in.

Note: It is to be informed about the weight of the personal baggage that is maximum 15 kg per person on a fully arranged tented trek and 8 kg for Teahouse trek.

6. WASHING & TOILET FACILITIES DURING ORGANIZED OR CAMP TREKS

A bowl of warm water for washing will be provided each morning and often we arrange to camp or have lunch next to a spring or stream where clients can bathe or wash clothes. We highly recommend that clients bring biodegradable soaps, shampoos & washing liquids/soaps. At each night's camp, a hole will be dug and a small toilet tent erected over it. They must always use the toilet tent, when it is available. During the day ensure that toilet stops are made off the trail and that all toilet paper is burnt. Sanitary napkins & tampons should be kept in a double plastic bag & personally brought back to Kathmandu.

Deforestation is Nepal's greatest environment problem. We use kerosene as an alternative to wood on all treks. We do not have campfires & we strongly discourage trekkers from buying wood-fueled hot showers in lodges along the trail. It is our responsibility to minimize our impact.

Sharing Campsites: During farming season, we might be compelled to share campsites & latrines with other groups due to shortage of camping fields in some areas. Please respect the needs and privacy of others.

Personal Expenses: While all meals, camping equipment and support staffs are included in our arrangement; the clients are expected to pay for all soft drinks, beverages, beer & foodstuff purchased from shops along the trail. In case they wish to stay a couple of nights at local inns/tea-houses due to unfavorable situations like bad weather, they should settle the charges directly.

7. TREKKING SEASON

Trekking in Nepal can be undertaken throughout the year. The most popular seasons are spring and autumn. There are four seasons in Nepal. Each season has its distinct attractions to offer. The seasons are classified as follows:

Autumn: (Sep-Nov): This season offers excellent weather and tantalizing mountain views.
Winter (Dec-Feb): This season is noted for occasional snowfall only at higher elevations.
Spring (Mar-May): Different varieties of wild flowers, especially the rhododendrons make the hillside 5000 meters a haunting paradise during this season. It is mildly warm at lower elevations and at higher elevation over 4000 meters the mountain views are excellent and temperature is quite moderate.
Summer (Jun-Aug): Summer months, continues up to mid September making travel wet and warm. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. This is the favorite season to trek in the rain shadow areas like Mustang, Upper Manang and Dolpo.

December and January are also good but the air can be quite cold at high altitudes. The monsoon season lasts from June through August which is characterized by clouds, humid heat at lower altitudes, slippery trails and an abundance of leeches. Though there are sunny days now and then, trekking during monsoon season is not preferable as spring and autumn. However this season is perfect for trekking in the rain-shadow regions north of the Himalayan-like Mustang, Humla, Dolpo and the Jumla-Rara Lake.

Temperature Chart

Below listed is the average, maximum and minimum temperatures in centigrade in various trekking locations. You can estimate temperatures for other nearby locations by a simple formula; for a rise of 100m the temperature falls 0.65 C.

Places Altitude Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
Kathmandu 1336m 19/2 21/3 25/7 28/10 30/4 29/18 28/19 28/19 27/17 27/12 23/7 20/2
Pokhara 833m 19/6 21/8 26/12 30/15 30/18 29/20 29/21 29/21 28/20 26/17 23/11 20/7
Trisuli 540m 20/7 25/8 30/13 34/17 33/19 33/21 32/20 32/20 31/18 30/15 27/12 23/8
Langtang 3310m 2/-11 3/-10 8/-6 14/-2 17/2 18/7 19/9 18/8 16/7 15/2 9/-8 8/-10
Jomsom 2800m 12/-3 13/-1 16/2 20/4 23/7 25/12 25/14 25/14 23/11 9/5 15/1 13/-2
Marpha 3000m 10/-1 12/0 15/3 18/5 19/7 21/11 21/12 21/12 20/11 17/7 14/2 12/0
Lumle 1520m 13/5 14/6 19/10 22/13 22/14 23/17 22/17 23/17 21/16 20/14 16/9 13/6
Jumla 2425m 11/-2 13/-3 17/0 22/3 24/6 24/13 23/15 24/15 23/12 24/6 19/-4 15/-5
Jiri 2000m 13/0 15/1 19/4 22/8 22/12 23/16 23/17 23/17 22/15 20/10 17/4 14/1
Namche 3450m 7/-8 6/-6 9/-3 12/1 14/4 15/6 16/8 6/8 15/6 12/2 9/3 7/-6
Tengboche 3870m 4/-9 5/-9 9/-6 12/-4 14/-1 14/3 14/5 14/4 13/2 12/-2 8/-7 6/-7
Ilam 1300m 16/9 18/10 23/14 25/16 25/17 25/18 25/18 25/19 25/17 25/16 21/12 18/8
Chitwan 150m 20/5 25/10 30/20 32/24 36/25 37/26 37/27 35/26 36/27 30/25 28/24 20/4

8. EQUIPMENTS

All our camping-treks are outfitted with the highest quality equipments available. Comfortable waterproof tents, sleeping bags (advice to bring your own), cotton inner-sheet, foam mattress, dining tent with camp chairs & tables and a toilet tent are standard equipment on all our camping holidays. We recommend participants to bring their personal items along, such as;

  • Minimal Requirements
  • Lightweight walking boots.
  • A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers is useful higher up in the mountains in the morning and at night.
  • Pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts.
  • Cotton T-shirts.
  • Lightweight long sleeved-shirt is particularly suitable for avoiding sun burn.
  • A sunhat and ensure it has wide brim to cover the face and neck.
  • 2 pairs of thin and 2 pairs of thick woolen socks.
  • Underwear
  • Swimming suit
  • Water Bottle
  • Sunglasses and strap
  • Toiletries with large and small towels.
  • Small headlamp and/or flashlight/torch with spare batteries
  • Personal medical supplies - don't forget band-aids and twizzers
  • Army-knife and sewing kit
  • Sun-screen, sunblock, sun-tan lotion, zinc-oxide
  • Winter Requirements
  • Warm jacket. Fiberfill or down should be adequate. This is especially necessary during winter from December to February
  • Sleeping bag to -15 C or sleep sheet
  • Woolen shirts and thick sweaters. During winter months, December through February.
  • Windproof/Waterproof trousers. Necessity on all treks going above 3,000 meters.
  • Thermal underwear. These are excellent to sleep in at night. In the winter month’s thermal underwear are quite invaluable.
  • A woolen hat to wear in the morning and at night. During winter it is an essential item.
  • A pair of gloves. Leather with lining and woolen are best.
  • Snow Glasses and strap
  • Snow gaiters can be essential
  • Some nice add-ons
  • Camera
  • A pair of slip-on shoes or sandals and spare boot laces.
  • A rain-proof jacket with hood or a poncho.
  • A sweat-suit.
  • Duffel bag or kit bag to carry gear while trekking.
  • Daypack. This is a small backpack to carry personal requirement for the day e.g., to toilet items, camera, towel, soap, a book etc.
  • 2-4 large plastic bags to separate clean clothes from dirty ones. 6-10 smaller plastic bags to dispose garbage.
  • Wallet and/or money belt with compartment for coins.
  • Spare flashlight bulbs, candles and lighter to burn toilet paper.
  • An umbrella is quite useful as a walking stick, a sunshade and for rain.
  • Pocket knife, binoculars (optional), A small pillow or headrest (optional) Thermarest (optional) - an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of passport photographs.
  • Duct-tape, superglue and small mirror can be handy
  • Travel locks and chain to secure luggage and lodge door
  • Hot-water bottle

9. RECOMMENDED MOUNTAINEERING KIT

In addition to the items mentioned above for trekking, the following is a list of the additional specialist items which are required for the trekking peaks.

  • Plastic or leather mountaineering boots, with gaiters & crampons that have been tested for a good fit
  • Fleece trousers or salopettes
  • Additional mitts and gloves suitable for climbing
  • Ice axe, and ski poles (note - ice axe can be hired in Kathmandu)
  • Climbing harness, 2 x tape slings
  • 2 x screw gate karabiners
  • Descender/abseil device, Ascender

And above all, please carry fair mentality, flexibility, sense of humor and understanding to the situation as you are going to the remote areas where many things will be beyond your expectation.

10. OXYGEN RATE IN THE HIMALAYAS AT DIFFERENT ALTITUDET

In meters In feet Oxygen rate
8850 29035 33 %
7000 22966 41 %
7000 22966 41 %
6000 19865 47 %
5500 18045 50 %
5200 17061 52 %
5000 16404 53 %
4500 14764 57 %
4000 13123 60 %
5000 16404 53 %
3500 11483 64 %
5000 16404 53 %
3000 9843 68 %
5000 16404 53 %
2500 8202 73 %
1000 3281 88 %
Sea Level 100 %
Everest summit to sea level

11. ACCLIMATIZATION:

Though we have planned carefully for acclimatization stage, everybody is likely to feel some effects of change in altitude and the reduction in available of oxygen in the air. Common effects are: breathlessness particularly uphill, headaches that will respond to aspirin, difficulty sleeping and a little loss of appetite. A serious condition (Acute Mountain Sickness) is a persistent exaggeration of all these effect. Even at rest you are still breathless- rather than just occasionally having to catch your breath. Thumping headaches will not go away even with aspirin. The lack of oxygen in the system affects either the head or the lungs (or both) and corresponding additional symptoms are respectively loss of co-ordination or coughing up persistent sputum. It must be stressed that there are a very few people who can not adapt to altitude regardless of age or fitness. Our trekking guide, Sherpa know exactly what to do with such case – make them to descend immediately accompanied by a responsible potter regardless of any time until the symptoms desist. However, as our trekking guides have never experienced AMS personally, it can only be up to you to be the judge of your won condition. Your fellow trekkers, who will be aware of your normal behavior, will be the best judges in this case. Here you all should be alert for each other. During treks we request you to respect his decision as a responsible leader. However if you really think you are fit enough to continue then convince him and the other fellow trekkers about your condition which is as per your knowledge is mild enough to simply stay on extra day and proceed at your own pace. If in doubt, descend - AMS can kill!

12. PRECAUTIONS

The main precaution to be taken while trekking is not to go up too high too fast giving plenty of time to acclimatize for body. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) refers to the effects of the thin air at high altitudes that can be very dangerous and may even result in death. If you get initial symptoms like nausea, dizziness, swelling in the face and breath lessens, descends to a lower elevation immediately and seeks medical help. Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory to cover emergencies like helicopter rescue and medical treatment in case of accidents on the trail.

Causes / factors of Altitude Sickness:
  • Low Oxygen
  • Low pressure i.e. Barometric Pressure
  • Rapid Ascent
  • Possible Dehydration
  • Hypothermia / Low temperature
Types of Altitude Sickness:
01. AMS: Acute Mountain Sickness (Mild symptom feels like hangover / not feeling well)
02. HAPE: High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (Moderate symptom / lung problem by water in the lung) 03. HACE: High Altitude cerebral Edema (serious symptom / water in the head)
Symptoms
(AMS) ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESSMild symptom feels like hangover/not feeling good
Headache
Fatigue/Tiredness
Nausea
Shortness of breath
Loss of appetite
Sleep disturbance
Dizziness

(HAPE) HIGH ALTITUDE PULMONARY EDEMA (Water in lungs)

Increasing shortness of breath even at rest
Severe cough-dry/Productive
Very tired-Unusual fatigue while walking
High Pulse rate i.e. 110
Blueness of face, lips, finger nails that means inability to transport Oxygen into the blood

(HACE) HIGH ALTITUDE CEREBRAL EDEMA (Water in the head)

Severe symptoms of altitude sickness
Severe Headache
Vomiting
Walking like a drunk (Ataxia)
Mental confusion/Altered mental status
Irritable-Does not want to be bothered by other people
Unconsciousness or Coma
Prevention of AMS:
Acclimatization: After 1000m ascent stay one more night for acclimatization
Do not make rapid ascent
No alcohol, no sleeping pills, no smoking, no sex
Drink more: about 4 liters day-clean water (boiled, filtered or medicated), tea, coffee, soup, and juice
No heavy backpacks, don't exhaust yourself
Climb higher, always sleep lower
Ascent less than 300m a day above 3.000m of altitude
Never trek alone - do not leave your team member behind unattended, either trekker or porter.
Treatment of AMS:
Descent is the best remedy; do not wait for the helicopters or medical help.
Three medications have been proven useful:

Diamox for AMS 125mg. Before dinner, for sleeping problem if feeling suffocated. Nifedipine (ordinarily used to treat heart problems and high blood pressure) for HAPE Descomethasone (an important drug to carry for emergency use).

13. HELICOPTER RESCUE

There are a few reliable medical posts in the hills, such as the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) posts at Pheriche, Machhermo and Manang, and the Khunde Hospital which are all staffed by Western doctors. However, most accidents or illnesses will occur in the absence of reliable medical care. If you find yourself ill or injured in the mountains, here are the steps we take to rescue you. Our staff will try to treat the medical problem themselves. If altitude sickness is suspected, we will make the victim to descend immediately. For the more serious medical problems, emergency helicopter evacuation will be arranged.

14. TREKKING PERMITS

CLICK HERE
NOTE: Trekking Permits and National Park Fees and TIMs will be included in our package rates wherever applicable except otherwise specified.

15. THE BENEFITS FOR BEING WITH US

We offer a full range of Himalayan treks of varying lengths and difficulty levels to suit all preferences, age groups and levels of experience from an easy trek of a few days’ duration to a full-scale mountaineering expedition. You have a choice of treks in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan with us. For the smooth operation of our treks we are well equipped, stressing ahead of each client's optimum safety, providing guides who have knowledge of the routes, friendly and above all committed to conserving our natural and cultural diversity

16. OUR TEAM AND SERVICES

The Sirdar, trek leader is responsible for the smooth running of any trek, leads the trek team. They will be able to communicate fairly well in passable English only, so trekkers should not expect them to conduct any in depth or intellectual discourse. We then have the Cook and Kitchen Boys to assist him. Cooks who are well trained in modern cooking hygiene prepare meals. Deforestation is Nepal's greatest environment problem. We use kerosene as an alternative to wood on all treks. We do not have campfires, and we strongly discourage trekkers from buying wood-fueled hot showers in lodges along the trail. We recommend that each trekker keep a small plastic bag in their daypack to collect personal rubbish on the trail & in camp such as chocolate wrappers etc; our trail staffs are trained for correct disposal of waste. Each morning a small fire will be made for burnable rubbish. Any non-burnable or non-biodegradable like batteries & plastic bottles should be taken back to Kathmandu. A team of junior Sherpa Guides and Porters depending on the group size will carry all camping equipment and clients' belongings. Client has to carry only his daily uses. As the Sirdar is overall in-charge, the clients must respect him as such and heed his warnings and advice during any difficult situation that could arise during treks. Trekking in Nepal is by no means trekking in wilderness; trails generally pass through inhabited villages. However, once the trek is underway, communication with their home or Kathmandu is either very difficult or impossible. Therefore, the trekkers should be prepared for any eventuality. Our staff will always do their best to help you.

17. TREKKING CLIMBING - FAQS

Is the country politically stable and safe?
Are your guide experience and reliable?
How can I obtain Nepal Visa?
How can I meet your representative in the airport?
Do I need to be inoculated?
Can I use my cell phone in Nepal?
Do I have to be insured?
Does credit card easily acceptable in Nepal and are there any ATM facilities?
How long a trek goes and how difficult are they?
Is the water safe to drink during trekking?
What should I carry on my day packed?
What type of food is served on a trek?
What clothes and shoes should I bring?
What sort of accommodation and toilet facilities can I expect while trekking?
Should I purchase a lot of expensive gear to go on a trek?
What is the daily routine on the trek?
What happens in the event of Emergency?
How much money should I carry during trekking?
Are the trails crowded?
How can we respect your culture during our trek:

Is the country politically stable and safe?
Nepal is one of the new democratic countries in the world with many active political parties. In past there used to be some disturbances but it didn’t affect the daily life of residents nor any tourist activities. Now as all parties have already undergo through the peace process so none of those strikes occur anymore. If incase any unfavorable incident occur we assure you that it will be our first priority to secure each of our guests.

Are your guide experience and reliable?
Ramya World Holidays has reliable, honest and experienced trekking guide who had spent years exploring the mountains and countryside of Nepal. All guides speak English but not fluency as westerners and have a profound knowledge on most of the trekking routes. They are trained in first aid and can handle in any unfavorable situations. Above all, they are very friendly and helpful.

How can I obtain Nepal Visa?
You can easily get the visa upon arrival at any of the entry port to Nepal by paying USD 25. All you need is minimum six months valid passport and passport size photos. Please do carry some more photos.

How can I meet your representative in the airport?
Our representative at the airport will wait for you holding either your name card or our company banner. So you can easily see him. He will escort you to your hotel and briefed you all about your trip.

Do I need to be inoculated?
We recommend that the clients get themselves immunized against certain illness that are not prevalent in their home country such as Cholera, Typhoid, Malaria, Meningitis, Hepatitis etc. Please consult your doctor who will have an updated list.

Can I use my cell phone in Nepal?
Yes you can use your cell phone or buy the local SIM card in Nepal. In some remote areas or high altitude, networking will not be available.

Do I have to be insured?
A travel insurance policy that covers theft, loss, trip cancellation & medical treatment is highly recommended. For trekkers and climbers and guests going for the adventurous activities, their insurance policies should also cover helicopter evacuation expenses in the eventuality of serious illness or accident or if clients are stranded in remote areas due to unexpected bad weather conditions. It is highly recommended to have a personal travel insurance policy, which contains emergency evacuation protection (helicopter rescue) and for repatriation in case of an accident.

Does credit card easily acceptable in Nepal and are there any ATM facilities?
In remote and less developed areas you cannot use your credit card but in cities, major credit cards ((Master Card, Visa Card etc) are accepted. You can find plenty of ATM machines in cities areas.

How long a trek goes and how difficult are they?
Basically the length of trek depends on your interest and location. You can choose trek anywhere from 2-3 days to an entire month or longer. So as the difficulty of treks depends on your choice. The shorter treks are comparatively easier with 4 to 5 hours of walking each day while the longer ones require some more physical fitness. Be prepared for some steep trails which lead to amazing views. The pace at which you hike is up to you. We have friendly and dependable porters to assist you with your belongings and personal gears

Is the water safe to drink? Our trekking guide will be in charge of all your water needs. He will make sure all water is boiled and treat it with iodine. Iodine is 100% effective in killing the bacteria in water.

What should I carry on my day packed?

  • Some money in cash.
  • Water bottle
  • Medicines if you are taking any medicine.
  • Rain coat/ umbrella in monsoon.
  • Camera
  • Anti-sun burn lotion

What type of food is served on a trek?
Normally hot meals are served all along the trip. Packed lunches are also served when there are no lodges/guest house or cooking place available on the distances between stops. A variety of local Nepali, Chinese, Indians and continental dishes are prepared with fresh vegetables, meats depending on place and season; mostly vegetarian meals. All meals will be hygienic. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day.

What clothes and shoes should I bring?
Usually days are warm with nights cold. A warm jacket either fleece or down, long under wear and wool socks will be good choice for the evening. We advice you to bring a light pair of pants and shorts for hiking with sunscreen and glasses and a baseball cap. Rain and hail can appear on a trek so we advice a Gore-Tex jacket. Most gears can be purchased or hired in cities areas. Shorter treks can be finished in comfortable running shoes with nice grip while longer ones require sturdy but light weight hiking boots. Please wear your boots at your hometown to avoid the blisters during treks.

What sort of accommodation and toilet facilities can I expect while trekking?
Teahouses are usually built using local materials and are quite comfortable run by the family. It provides single and double rooms as well as the occasional dormitory. Most lodges provide a mattress and a blanket or a quilt however advices to carry own sleeping bag and the inflatable pillow. All food will be cooked to order in the family kitchen. The toilet facilities will be separate and sometimes outside of the house. We normally arrange someone to clean the bathroom for our guests. It is also advice to carry own lock for the room. Theft is almost unheard of in those areas but still need to be careful from others unfamiliar trekkers.

On our camping trek, a tent, kitchen tent, dining tent and toilet tents will be provided. It is recommended to bring your own sleeping bags, mats. A bowl of hot water will be served each morning in your tent for a quick scrub up and face wash. We usually camp in or near a village which facilities you to buy chocolate, beer or soft drinks, which we do not provide in any trip. Bathroom and sanitation facilities are improvised and made as comfortable as possible.

Should I purchase a lot of expensive gear to go on a trek?
We suggest you to bring your own - a sleeping bag, warm jacket and sleeping mat etc.

What is the routine on the trek?
A trekking day usually keeps to a pattern. However this is only for the reference and entirely depends on guests’ comfort, weather condition etc
7 am: Time for breakfast. It generator consists of local bread of toast, biscuits, musli, granola, cereal, eggs, and tea of coffee.
7.30-8.00 am: We hit the trail and walk for three to four hours. The pace is leisurely, no rush, and there will be plenty of time to explore surroundings.
12noon: We break for lunch, which generally consists of local breads with butter, cheese, potatoes, a hot vegetables dish, meat, and drinks.
1.30-3 pm: We resume walking and reach our campsite or local lodges by mid-after-noon. The rest of the day is free to wander around.
6-6.30 pm: Dinner is served.

What happens in the event of Emergency?
If altitude sickness is suspected, we will make the victim to descend immediately. Helicopter rescue services will rarely come to your aid without making a cash deposit. However when you are with us, we will arrange the rescue and initial payments, but the victim is responsible for reimbursing the cost of the flight which can be as high as USD 2000 per hour, in Kathmandu. Again, make confirm you have insurance covering emergency helicopter rescue. Rescue flight might takes minimum 5/6 hours to reach to you.

How much money should I carry during trekking?
While all meals, camping equipment and support staffs are included in our arrangement; the clients are expected to pay for all soft drinks, beverages, beer & foodstuff purchased from shops along the trail. In case they wish to stay a couple of nights at local inns/tea-houses due to unfavorable situations like bad weather, they should settle the charges directly.

Are the trails crowded?
At the peak season, you will face some other trekkers as well. But on a off beaten treks, you may find no other trekkers apart from your group for days on end.

  • Never enter anyone's house or a temple without permission. Many Hindu temples may be closed to non-Hindus. If permitted, always remove your shoes before entering.
  • In tea-shops or in local houses, please stay away from the kitchen.
  • Keep away from dogs or animals no matter how friendly they may be, as they are often not inoculated against Rabies
  • Always use the right hand while giving or accepting anything.
  • While circling Hindu temples or Buddhist stupas, always go about it in a clock-wise direction.
  • Never presses anyone to pose for photographs. Seek permission.
  • Never leave belongings unattended. The general tendency of villagers is, if things are just lying, they are not needed. The villagers may take these things away without permission.
  • Most Hindus do not eat food that has been touched or half eaten by others. Similarly, avoid throwing rubbish into cooking fires. It is considered impure by the Nepalese.
  • For religious reasons, Nepalese people are offended by being touched on the head. Similarly, foreigners should never sit so that the sole of the feet is pointed at a person or a religious shrine.
  • It is better to be decently clad when visiting any place. Sun sand beachwear is not proper when roaming around. Briefs, shorts, bare shoulders and backs may not be appreciated. One need to be decently covered.
  • Do not be offended if a Nepalese lady hesitates to shake hands. In Nepal, people, especial women, do not normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as "namaste".
  • Public display of affection between man and women is frowned upon.
  • We are hard on drug abuse; trafficking and possession of drugs are taking as serious offences.
  • Cheap charity breeds beggars but does not solve their basis problem. Therefore, do not encourage beggary by being benevolent.
  • Last but not the least; everyone should remember that in Nepal punctuality has little meaning. Patience & a sense of humor are great assets.