Annapurna Loop & Gorkha Community Project

The Annapurna Loop (Ghorepani and Poon Hill) Trek starts and ends in Pokhara; a colourful foray into the Annapurna region. The trail winds through patchwork valleys, dense mossy forests and past icy waterfalls where you can stop to cool your face.

Immerse yourself in the mystery and rich historical heritage, exquisite temples and religious sites of Kathmandu as you enjoy a guided tour of the city.

Your trek is a colourful foray into the Annapurna region. The trail winds through patchwork valleys, dense mossy forests and past icy waterfalls. Around every corner is a tantalising glimpse of the high mountains, whole horizons of which are revealed as you reach the high points of your trek.

After indulging in the beauty of the Annapurna region you travel to the city of lakes, Pokhara. From here you continue on to the Gorkha District, where you will experience village life and work as part of the community.

This is a wonderful opportunity to exchange ideas about modern technology and education, and learn about the lifestyle of local people. You will visit a Shaman, learning about typical rituals of worshipping believed to cure diseases.

This is a fabulous opportunity to see a country which is stunningly beautiful and culturally fascinating. Even more special are the people you will meet who are gentle and welcoming – and though we will endeavour to contribute to their lives, it is very likely that they will be able to teach us more than we teach them.

Price: On Application

Duration: 16 Days/15 Nights

Trek Ratings: Activity 3 / Conditions 3 / Accommodation 2 / Training/Preparation 3

Best Season: January to May and October to December

Country: Nepal

Trip Start: Kathmandu

Trip Ends: Kathmandu

Activity: Sightseeing Trekking

Max. Altitude: 3210m / 10531ft

Sample Itinerary Overview

Day 01 Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400m). Overnight at Hotel.
Day 02 Guided sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley. Overnight at a Hotel.
Day 03 Drive to Pokhara (900 m) in a Tourist Bus – 7 hours. Overnight at a Hotel.
Day 04 Drive to Nayapul (1,010 m) and Trek to Tikhedunga (1,570 m) – 4 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Day 05 Trek to Ghorepani (2,840 m) – 5 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Day 06 Hike up to Poon Hill (3,210 m) and Trek to Tadapani (2,610 m) – 7 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Day 07 Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m) – 4 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Day 08 Trek to Nayapul (1,010 m) and Drive to Pokhara – 5 hours. Overnight at a Hotel.
Day 09 Drive to Dharapani Secondary School – 8 hours (1,860 m). Overnight at Tented Camp.
Days 10-14 Volunteering at Primary Schools and Library. Overnight at Tented Camp.
Day 15 Drive Back to Kathmandu – 5 hours. Overnight at a Hotel.
Day 16 Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure flight.

Sample Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1400 metres).
Our airport representative will be receiving you at Tribhuvan International airport, Kathmandu and s/he will be displaying an Adventure School Treks signboard outside the airport terminal. You will be then transferred to your respective hotel in our private tourist vehicle.

Note: If you happen to arrive after 4 pm you would be briefed about the trip by our guide, this will be the pre-trip meeting for you, so please make sure that you ask all the questions. But if you arrive earlier than 4 pm, your pre-trip meeting would be on that very day at our office. During the meeting, we will introduce your trek leader/guide. For the meeting, please make sure you bring the passport, three copies of passport-size photos and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy. During this meeting, please clear the due balance, if any, and sign the legally binding trip form as well as the non-liability disclaimer.

Overnight at Hotel
No meals

Day 02 Guided Sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley.
After a hearty breakfast, at 8.30 am your sightseeing trip will start. You will have a private vehicle and a professional tour guide at your disposal. Today we will visit some heritages listed below:

Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Though you are not allowed to go inside the temple as it is strictly for Hindus only, you can clearly see the temple and the activities from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River. It is a square two-tiered pagoda temple built on a single-tier plinth which is famous all over the world.

Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhananath is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. It was built in the 5th century with four pairs of eyes of Lord Buddha in four cardinal directions keeping an eternal watch over the people and their doings. You will find Buddhist pilgrims from Tibet going round the stupa spinning the prayer wheels.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the Royal Residential Quarter of Bhupatindra Malla, famous five-storied temple of Nyatapola in Pagoda style Batsala temple, Bhairavnath temple, Duttatraya temple, Pujari Muth and Palace of 55 windows.

The rest of our time in Kathmandu is free for further exploration and some last-minute shopping in Thamel area for trekking essentials.

Overnight at Hotel
Breakfast

Day 03 Drive to Pokhara (900 m) in a Tourist Bus – 7 hours.
Our trekking staff will pick you up at the hotel at 6:30 am and escort you to the tourist bus station. The bus to Pokhara leaves at around 7:30 am. A beautiful valley set on the banks of the Phewa Lake, Pokhara is also known for its panoramic views of Annapurna and Machapuchare (shape of fish tail) in the north, Dhaulagiri in the west and Lamjung Himal and Manaslu in the east. It is smaller and much less hectic than Kathmandu, hence providing the perfect starting point for our trek.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast

Day 04 Drive to Nayapul (1,010 m) and Trek to Tikhedunga (1,570 m) – 4 hours.
We begin our trek at Nayapul after a hour drive on a private vehicle from Pokhara. After a short 15-minute walk along the banks of the Modi Khola, we reach Birethanti (1,015 m), a large village with many shops and teahouses. From there, the trail continues through the village and follows the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola. The trail climbs steadily up the side of the valley to Hille at 1,495 m. After a short climb, we reach Tikhedhunga at 1,570 m. Today’s walk is relatively short and easy, a prelude to the trekking experience in the Annapurna region.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05 Trek to Ghorepani (2,840 m) – 5 hours.
We move on towards the steep climb to Ulleri, a large Magar village at an altitude of 2,070 m. The trail ascends more gently from this point, through fine forests of oak and rhododendrons, towards Banthanti at 2,250 m. Then we trek towards Nangethanti at 2,460 m. After an hour walk we arrive at Ghorepani (2,840 m).

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06 Hike up to Poon Hill (3,210 m) and Trek to Tadapani (2,610 m) – 7 hours.
Today, very early in the morning, we start an hour hiking to Poon Hill at an elevation of 3,210 m, a brilliant mountain range spectacle; this vantage point provides an unobstructed view of the sunrise over the high Himalayas. There we spend about 1 hour and returning to Ghorepani, we take a hot breakfast. Then we make a climb along ridges, and through pine and rhododendron forests, towards Deurali (2,960 m). After that, we descend to the Banthanti, then turn off to Tadapani.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07 Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m) – 4 hours.
From Tadapani the trail descends through forests to Ghandruk, a village of Gurung people, one of the ethnic groups of Nepal. They have their own dialect, culture, costume, and lifestyle. Ghandruk is also home to many Gurkha soldiers. It is a famous destination for trekkers as it is known for its beautiful mountain views and also because it is within easy reach from Pokhara and Kathmandu. We have the afternoon to visit Annapurna Conservation Office and museums and explore the village.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08 Trek to Nayapul (1,010 m) and Drive to Pokhara – 5 hours.
Today, we are going to end our trek at Nayapul followed by a short drive back to Pokhara. After reaching Pokhara, you can have a relaxing afternoon and take some stroll around the lake side.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 09 Drive to Dharapani Secondary School – 8 hours (1,860 m). Overnight at Tented Camp.
The drive from Pokhara to Dharapani is 8 hours long, so this will take a good part of the day. Once the group arrive in Arughat Bazar they will travel towards the west by climbing the stairs at the top of Arughat Bazar and then cross the bridge of Stull Khola (river). Ascend up to reach the village. The hike will take around 2 hours all the way up. The first stop is Dharapani Secondary School at Dharapani village. From there it’s another 40 minutes walk to Ratmate where Bhairabi is located.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Days 10-14 Volunteering at Primary Schools and Library. Overnight at Tented Camp.
On the first day, there will be a welcome program in the morning. Students, teachers and locals will be there. Tika (red power) will be put on our foreheads along with garland or Khada over our necks. A sign of honour.

After the welcome program, engage in various volunteering activities for two weeks in Ratamate village.

The main focus is on teaching the students of Bhairabi Primary School. You will either work alongside the school teachers or they will let you take their classes. You can choose to teach subjects such as maths, science, English, social studies, etc depending upon your interest and knowledge. This will be a good opportunity for the village students to expand their horizon. They will be able to know about how things are there in your developed country.

Don’t forget that learning is not confined only in the classroom – outdoors games (during the break times) are hugely popular with the students. Our past volunteers used some very innovative ways to make learning more interactive, fun and comprehensible for children. Some examples are word association games, drawing pictures of animals/people to help explain while conversing, singing and acting out stories.

Apart from teaching, there will be rebuilding works too. We won’t be engaging you in heavy, professional activities but in simple and easy things like painting the school walls and so on. You can choose either to do teaching or rebuilding or both.

During the stay, you won’t only engage either in volunteering. You will get opportunities to observe the village lifestyle of Nepalese, take part in their activities such as farming (if luck is in your side, you can have fun with mud while farming), you can go swimming in the river too. There will be walks around the village and to the viewpoints from where you can see the snow-white Himalayan peaks.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 15 Drive Back to Kathmandu – 5 hours. Overnight at a Hotel.
Today we bid a sad farewell to our new friends and trek to Arughat Bazaar, where we meet our bus. During this five hour journey we will enjoy many stunning views. In the evening, we will have our final farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances. This is a wonderful way to end what will have been an exciting and rewarding experience.

Overnight at Guesthouse
Breakfast and Dinner

Day 16 Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure flight.
A final opportunity to shop or sightsee in Kathmandu, before transferring to the airport for your onward journey from Nepal.

‘Standard’ Package Inclusions – can be modified on request

Trek Inclusions – PRE-TREK
Transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal to hotel on arrival
2x nights 3-star Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu incl. Breakfast
Guided city tour in Kathmandu and Pokhara by private tourist vehicle
Commercial flight from Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal > Pokhara Airport, Nepal
1x night 3-star Hotel accommodation in Pokhara incl. Breakfast

Trek Inclusions – ANNAPURNA LOOP and GORKHA COMMUNITY PROJECT
All standard meals during the trek (Breakfasts, Lunches and Dinners)
Lodges/Guesthouses accommodation during the trek (Trekking Guesthouse in twin share and occasionally dormitory style).
Accommodation in tented camps with breakfast, lunch and dinner in village
Food provided by our local chef in the camp kitchen (The variety of food available are rice, pasta, fried rice, pancakes, muesli, eggs, hot tea and coffee etc.)
All volunteering activities in the village and schools
Local licensed English speaking guide
The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trek (we assign one porter for every two guests)
Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff
Annapurna Conservation Park permits and TIMS permit for trekking
Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after the trek)
Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu
FREE Adventure School Treks quick-dry Walking Shirt
FREE Adventure School Treks Camp Polo Shirt
FREE Adventure School Treks Certificate of Completion
Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show on second last day
4×4 SUV transfer to and from Village with driver
All government taxes, vat, tourist service charges
Public Liability Insurance
Official expenses

Trek Inclusions – POST-TREK
1x night 3-star Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu incl. Breakfast
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal to airport on check-out

Cost Does not Include

Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu and Pokhara
International airfare and airport departure tax
Nepal entry Visa fee
Your travel insurance which covers emergency rescue and evacuation (compulsory)
Hot and cold drinks
Personal trekking equipment
Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu & Pokhara
Tips for trekking staffs, driver etc.
Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section

The following gives you a general idea of the personal items that you can bring for the trek. The personal items are of individual interest, and choice. The most important fact that one should keep on mind is that one should have enough clothes to tackle the cold weather in the Himalayas.

In a supported trek, heavy items are carried by porters or yaks and personal belongings that you may need for the day like money, water bottle, rain gear, camera, sun cream and toilet paper etc. should be carried by yourself. So you are briefed to pack items in two different bags.

We will supply complimentary water and wind proof duffel bag which you can use on the trek and is carried by porter/s. The duffel bag is yours to keep after the trek. You can leave your bag with your non-trek items at the hotel in Kathmandu and collect them after the trek.

General

4 seasons Sleeping bag (Optional/we can provide one if you need it but is to be returned after the trek)
Duffel or Rucksack bag or suitcase (We will provide one complimentary duffel bag for you to keep.)
Daypack
Down Jacket (Optional/we can provide if you need one but is to be returned after the trek)

Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes

Sun hat
Wool or synthetic hat that cover the ears
Normal sunglasses
Neck warmer (For winter)

Hands

Liner gloves
Heavier shell gloves (For winter)

Core Body

T-shirts
Thermal tops
Fleece jacket or pullover
Water/windproof shell jacket (Preferably breathable fabric)

Lower Body – Legs

Thermal bottoms
Trekking pants and shorts
Water/windproof trousers
Casual pants

Feet

Liner socks
Heavyweight socks (For winter)
Waterproof hiking/trekking shoes
Light shoes/sneakers/sandals

Medicines and First Aid Kits

(Please note our guide will also carry the first aid kit bag during the trek. However we still recommend you to bring your personal first aid kit as well)

Extra Strength Headache Relief for altitude related headaches.
Ibuprofen for general aches and pains.
Imodium (or similar) capsules for upset stomach or diarrhoea.
Anti-infection ointments
Band-aids
Lip balm (At least SPF 20)
Sunscreen (SPF 40)

Miscellaneous, but Important!

Passport and extra passport photos (3 copies)
Airline ticket (Please make a copy and leave one at our office in Kathmandu just in case if you need to change the date of your flight.)
Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport
Water bottle/bladder
Water purification Iodine tablets
Toiletry kit (Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitiser, towel, soap, etc.)

Optional

Adjustable trekking poles
Favourite snack foods (No more than 2 pounds)
Paperback books, cards, mp3 player
Binoculars
Cameras (Memory cards, chargers and also batteries)
Pee bottle for men and pee funnel for woman

N.B. This list is only a guide. While you are required to bring everything on this list, there are numerous options, brands, and versions of each piece of equipment. Use your experience and the listed features to find the best gear for you. Some of the above equipments can be easily found in stores in Kathmandu for cheaper prices.

Please Note: Tight fitting, figure-hugging clothing, such as those made with Lycra can often be offensive to locals, especially to women. If you find these items comfortable as a base layer, please pack something to wear on top of them.

What type of shape do I need to be in, is this trip for me?

This trip is suitable for average people who are moderately fit, thus no previous experience is required. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, hiking is recommended before you embark on your journey.

The best preparation for this trek is bush walking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridge line ascents per comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest. They are physically strong, sharp-witted and have an incredibly positive attitude towards a life that we would consider extremely tough. There is something about a trek in the Himalaya that draws you back time and time again. For keen walkers, it is a paradise and even avowed non-walkers find that one foot just seems to follow the other, drawn by the appeal of what lies beyond.

Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Adventure School Treks sign board outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Can I obtain the visa for Nepal upon on arrival at the airport?

YES, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days can be obtained by paying US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency and for multiple Entry of 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100.

Do I need any extra documents?

Please bring a copy of your travel insurance, a copy of your passport and 3 photos (passport size) with you for your trip to Nepal. You would need photos for permits.

What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu, Pokhara and whilst trekking?

We use standard rooms at three-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included. Along the trekking routes, tea houses/lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We can also offer you sleeping bags if needed (to be returned after the trip) but it is a good idea to always have your own sleeping equipment. The lodges in trekking routes usually provide single and double rooms, or occasionally a dormitory style. At times when possible, dining will be around a bon fire. In tea houses, food will be prepared in the kitchen, which you should not enter without Permission. The toilet in teahouses provides essential and basic facilities and is always outside the room.

Are the guesthouse heated?

The guesthouses do not have heating or air conditioning facilities. However, as it gets colder above 2,500m, they do have ability to heat the dining area by providing kerosene or metal heaters. USD 1 to USD 3 per person would be applicable to use this service and this is payable directly to the guesthouse.

What are the Toilet facilities like in the guesthouses?

Most of the guesthouses have a western style flushing toilet, however in higher elevation you can find squat toilets made of either a ceramic basin on the ground, or a few planks of wood precariously positioned over a hole in the ground which is always outside of the room.

Where do we go to toilet along the trail? Is it similar to Kilimanjaro and just wherever we can find privacy?

In most cases, you can use the toilet provided by the guesthouses/lodges on the trail but in the case of an emergency, you just go to the toilet along the trail wherever you find privacy.

Do I need to bring toilet paper for the trek?

All the guest houses sell the toilet paper so you can buy it there itself. Hand sanitiser and a towel, however, you must bring yourself.

Is there a possibility of getting separate rooms for the trip?

During the trek, we will try our best but normally the lodges have twin sharing and dormitory styled room instead of a single room. The lodges will provide a private room for one person when the room is free and additional cost is not required.

The single supplements are always guaranteed in Kathmandu and Pokhara but not in the mountain especially during the peak time.

What sort of food can I expect in trekking?

Most guesthouses along the Annapurna trail cook a delicious range of, mostly, vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, daal bhat (rice and lentils), bread, soup, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season) and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatisation – eat some every day. In many villages, you may find some meat items on the menu. You can always get hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps.

Each day dinner and breakfast will be at a lodge you’ll stay at while for the lunch you would be stopping by on the way where you can order your meals as per your choice.

Is the food in mountain prepared to international standard in terms of safety?

YES, the food is very safe during the trekking and we recommend you to eat the vegetarian and local food. Please follow the suggestion of our guide on the trek.

I am a Vegetarian, is that a Problem?

No problem at all because mostly, the lodges serve the vegetarian meals. We always recommend our clients to eat vegetarian meals to avoid the food poisoning, eating heavy meals and non- vegetarian meals at the high altitude is not really safe for the stomach.

What is the drinking water facility in the mountain?

Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and teahouses, which you can buy at the cost of USD 1 at lower elevations to USD 3 to higher elevation per litre.

If you are planning to drink normal water all the way during trek, purifying water with any sort of purification tablets or drop is must. You can bring your own purifier or can purchase it in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

What opportunities will I have for a shower along the trek?

Yes, most of the guesthouses provide proper running common shower and toilet facility.

How much additional money do I need per day?

It depends on your spending habits. Generally, in Kathmandu and Pokhara you can allocate USD10 to USD15 for a lunch and a dinner. USD10 to USD15 per person a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates, pay for the hot shower and a few drinks during the trekking.

Can I use credit cards in the places I visit in trekking?

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, yes – to some extent. Once you are out of the cities, all you need is cash. Please change the currency in local Nepali Rupees before you go to the mountains.

What mode of transportation do you use?

We provide you only those options, which enhance your local experience while allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans, tourist bus to and from Kathmandu/ Pokhara. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless you are traveling in cooler areas.

Do we book our own international flights to and from Nepal?

Yes, you need to book your own International flights. Adventure School Treks (Getaway Trekking Pty Ltd) are IATA Accredited and can book airfares on your behalf.

What is the weather & temperature?

One of the most unpredictable elements of the Mountain is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation. Here are some weather basics to help ensure that you come to the Himalayas as well equipped and prepared to face anything.

Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours in the Everest region. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 degrees C (77 Degrees F), only to dip down as low as -20 degrees C (-4 Degrees F) in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.

Spring – March / April / May / June
Spring happens to be one of the best times of the year to visit the Everest region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. One can meet many other Everest climbers during this season and base camp is full of tents. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and the many different species of flower are visible in the lower altitude.

During springtime, the average temperature is 20 degrees C (68 Degrees F), with a maximum of 25 degrees C (77 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C (5 Degrees F), in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

Monsoon – July / August Through Mid-September
This season is not really recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it rains sometimes and although it is also sometimes dry, very few people travel during this season. There are positive sides of trekking during the monsoon months as the excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds.

During Monsoon, the average temperature is 22 degrees C (71.6 Degrees F), with a maximum of 30 degrees C (86 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -5 degrees C (23 Degrees F), in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

Autumn – End of September / October / November
Similar to springtime, autumn in the Everest region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. While it lacks the beauty of flowers, the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible views from just about every angle.

The average temperature during the fall is 17 degrees C (62.6 Degrees F), with a maximum temp of 20 degrees C (68 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C (5 Degrees F), in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.

Winter- December/ January/ February
Winter starts from mid December till mid February. People still like to trek in this month due to fewer crowds. View is still good but foggy so having extra days is highly recommended during this period.

The average temperature during the winter is 10 degrees C (50 Degrees F), with a maximum temp of 17 degrees C (62.6 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -20 degrees C (-4 Degrees F), in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.

The above temperature is based on outside of the guesthouse temperature. No need worry about the cold temperature as we provide the sleeping bag plus the extra blanket to make sure our clients are warm enough during the time of need.

What safety measures are in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry with them on trek to deal with sickness/accidents?

Guides available 24/7 for services during the trek. They are trained to use first aid kit and have knowledge on how to use the Oxy meter in order to track your oxygen level just to make sure you are fit enough to continue your high altitude walk.

Guides also carry local sim cards both Nepal Telecom and Ncell in order to update whereabouts and situation of our every client. During the time of emergency our guides are alert and keeps updated to head office in Kathmandu that is available 24/7 to arranging from horse to mules or helicopters in the must needed cases especially when client is seriously sick in the mountain and needed to be hospitalised.

Are any immunisations required?

Immunisation documents are not required to be submitted to enter Nepal however if you have been immunised with diphtheria TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus then that is a plus point but it’s not mandatory.

We also recommend:
· A dental check-up prior to travelling.
· That you know your blood group in case of emergency.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, which might affect you on tour, you make these known to Adventure School Treks at the time of your booking.

What if I am very sick on the mountain?

Guides are available 24/7 for services during the trek. They are trained to use first aid kit and have knowledge on how to use Oxy meter. They are very much aware that higher the altitude the oxygen level gets lesser so to get updated on the oxygen level of our client and to know whether they are fit enough or needs extra precautions to continue.

Guides carry local sim cards both Nepal Telecom and NCell in order to update whereabouts and situation of our every client. During the time of emergency our guides are alert and keeps updated to head office in Kathmandu that is available 24 /7 to arranging from horse to mules or helicopters in the must needed cases especially when client is seriously sick in the mountain and needed to be hospitalised.

Is there any communication while we are trekking?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with a local mobile phone. They carry the Nepal Telecom and Ncell Sim that has good network coverage. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Can I charge my digital camera or other equipment whilst on the trek?

These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel reception by paying some service charges. Remember to bring TWO and THREE pin travel adapters! You can also buy the adapters in the super markets or electronic shops in the Kathmandu. Guides can help you if required.

Do you use yaks/porters on the trek or do we carry all of our own gear?

Whilst on the trek, porters will take care of your luggage. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like camera, water bottle, sun cream etc.

Will there be a place to store items/clothing not required for the trek?

The hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara does provide the free storage services. You can leave items that are not required for the trekking at the hotel.

Do we need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be?

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 20 to USD 1000 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters is appreciated. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide. However, we recommend you to spend minimum 10% of your total trip cost for tipping entire local staffs, the ratio of tipping guide and porter will be given to you at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before starting the trek.