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Mera Peak: At 6476m, is the highest ‘trekking peak’ suitable for anyone with little or no previous experience of using an ice axe and crampons. The spectacular route is well within the reach of regular mountain walkers with a good level of fitness. Our careful programme of acclimatisation is designed to maximise your chance of comfortably reaching this special summit.

During the course of this expedition we are constantly rewarded with fine views of world famous peaks, including the towering Everest and Lhotse. Mera Peak’s notable summit provides one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Nepal. This magical vantage point offers stunning views of five 8000m peaks, Everest and Lhotse to the north, Kanchenjunga and Makalu to the east and the majestic Cho Oyu to the west.

Island Peak: This memorable 6189m peak offers a slightly more technical climb. The ascent involves a comfortable scramble, an intriguing rock ridge and then onto a wonderful glacier. Onwards, a steep snow headwall leads to a classic summit ridge. From here you are afforded fabulous views of many Himalayan giants, including the immense face of Lhotse and the elegant pyramid of Ama Dablam. The rewarding return journey is via the main Everest trail, with its welcoming and comfortable teahouses and lodges.

Day 01, Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02, Preparation for trek,meeting with guide and full Day sightseeing of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath&Pasupatinath - Hotel
Day 03, Fly to Lukla, trek to Paiya (Chutok) (2,730m/8,956ft): 40 mins flight, 5-6 hours trek
Day 04, Trek from Paiya to Panggom (2,846m/9,337ft): 5-6 hours
Day 05, Trek from Panggom to Ningsow (2,863m/9,393ft): 4-5 hours
Day 06, Trek from Ningsow to ChhatraKhola (2,800m/9,186ft): 7-8 hours
Day 07, Trek from Chhatra Khola to Kothe (3,691m/12,109ft): 6-7 hours
Day 08, Trek from Kothe to Thaknak (4,358m/14,297ft): 3-4 hours
Day 09, Acclimatize day
Day 10, Trek from Thaknak to Khare (5,045m/16,486ft): 2-3 hours
Day 11, Khare: Acclimatization
Day 12, Trek from Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780m/18,958ft): 6-7 hours
Day 13, Summit Mera Peak (6,461m/21,190ft), trek to KongmaDingma (4,850m/15912ft):10-11 hours
Day 14, Trek from Kongma Dingma to Seto Pokhari (5035m/16519 ft): 5-6 hours
Day 15, Trek from Seto Pokhari to Amphu Labcha Base Camp (South) (5,650m/18,536 ft): 5-6 hours
Day 16, Trek/climb from Amphu Labcha Base Camp to Chhukung (4,750m/15,580 ft): 9-10 hours
Day 17, Rest day in Chhukung
Day 18, Trek to Island peak base camp: 4 hours
Day 19, Summit to Island peak (6187meters) and return to base camp/ Chhukung (4750meters)
Day 20, Trek to from Chukkung to Tengboche - Approx. 8 hours.
Day 21, Trek to Namche Bazzar: 6 hour
Day 22, Trek to Lukla (2804meters) : 6hours:
Day 23, Morning flight to Kathmandu from Lukla, 30 mins flight
Day 24, Departure

Itineraries

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Apex Himalaya Treks (AHT). After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with Apex Himalaya Treks display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to your hotel nearby Thamel as per your requirement. Thamel has great food from all over the world, fabulous shopping and Durbar square with its several temples and markets are nearby Thamel. Overnight at hotel. Includes: Accommodation, Transportation

Day 02

Preparation for trek,meeting with guide and full Day sightseeing of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath&Pasupatinath - Hotel

After breakfast, your day will start for sightseeing of three Popular UNESCO Heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley with your professional tour guide.Our first destination for sightseeing will be at Buddhanath (the biggest & Largest Buddhist Stupa in the World). Stupa of Bouddhanath epitomizes Buddhism. In this Area, you will visit a Buddhist Monastery and stop for a lunch. If the weather is clear you will get glimpses of the mountain ranges close to Kathmandu, particularly Mt Ganesh Himal from the restaurant location. Your guide will enlighten you with detailed historical and cultural information about the place. After Lunch, we will visit Hindus temple Pasupatinath, one of the holiest temple for Hindu religion people. After this you will visit Living goddess home and Kathmandu Durbar square. Locally, this old royal palace area is called Basantapur Area or Hanuman dhoka Durbar Square. It normally takes 5 hours tour to visit all these 3 monuments within Kathmandu city. - Entrance fee for these UNESCO site should be paid in Nepali currency. We suggest you to carry some Nepali money while sightseeing. - Please cover your shoulders and while sightseeing - To show gratitude and respect, use both of your hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It seen as a gesture of respect. - Remove your shoes when entering a home, temple or monastery (and leather items in Hindu temples) - Remember not to point with a single finger but use a flat extended hand especially to indicate a sacred object or place. Meeting time at 3 pm in your hotel with our office representative and he/she will help you to meet with your trekking guide. Your trekking guide will help you for shopping and collecting remaining equipment for the trek. Includes: Breakfast, Transportation ,Accommodation

Day 03

Fly to Lukla, trek to Paiya (Chutok) (2,730m/8,956ft): 40 mins flight, 5-6 hours trek

We catch an early morning flight to Lukla and begin our trek to Paiya after landing at the Tenzing-Hillary airport in Lukla. We walk on a jungle trail, cross a bridge over the HandiKhola and reach Surke Village. From here we continue moving south and cross the Chutok La pass before reaching the small settlement of Paiyan, also known as Chutok. Overnight in Paiya. Includes: Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation, Transportation

Day 04

Trek from Paiya to Panggom (2,846m/9,337ft): 5-6 hours

We descend for a while and reach a small bridge. From here the trail is slippery until we cross the Kari La pass. We walk through rhododendron and bamboo forests on a narrow mountain trail. On today’s trip we also get to be in awe of the Dudhkoshi Valley. We continue our trek to Panggom Village whose settlers are dependent on farming and trading. Overnight in Panggom. Includes: Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 05

Trek from Panggom to Ningsow (2,863m/9,393ft): 4-5 hours

We begin our trek after breakfast. After trekking out of Panggom, we cross the Panggom La pass. Then we ascend, walk on a steady path and turn north. We cross Peseng Kharka Khola first then after walking for sometime, reach Peeng Kharka Danda. We cross Ningsow Khola (stream) before reaching the Ningsow Village. Overnight in Ningsow. Includes: Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 06

Trek from Ningsow to ChhatraKhola (2,800m/9,186ft): 7-8 hours

From Ningsow, we climb first then descend for a while and climb some more to reach Ramailo Danda. From here we get extraordinary views of Mera Peak and Salpa. After ascending and descending on our trail, we enter the Makalu Barun National Park. Our trail from here to ChhatraKhola is called Pasang Lhamu trail. On the way, if we are lucky, we might even come across the elusive Red Panda. Overnight in ChhatraKhola. Includes: Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 07

Trek from Chhatra Khola to Kothe (3,691m/12,109ft): 6-7 hours

We walk towards the north on the main trail to Mera Peak. After walking on a trail next to the the Majang Khola, we merge with another trail which moves alongside the Hinku Khola. Our trail moves straight ahead towards Tashing Ongma which has seasonal tea shops. We continue our trek and cross the bridge over the Sanu Khola before reaching Kothe. Overnight in Kothe. Includes: Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 08

Trek from Kothe to Thaknak (4,358m/14,297ft): 3-4 hours

We trek along the ridge of the Hinku Khola in the shadow of Mera Peak. We take lunch at Gondishung, the summer herders' settlement in the west bank of the Hinku Drangka. Beyond Gondishung, we pass a 200-year-old Lungsumgba Gompa where we can find Mera Peak scripted in rock along with its route to reach Mera. A short walk takes us to Thaknak, which is a summer grazing area with primitive lodges and shops. Overnight in Thaknak. Includes :Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 09

Acclimatize day

Another an acclimatization day is essential here. It is in a superb setting surrounded by stunning peaks. There is a huge moraine in the north of Tangnag where a beautiful glacial lake, Sabal Tsho is dammed which is definitely worth a visit. A cairn (5,270m/17,290ft) on the flanks of Kusum Kangguru can also be rewarding and beneficial for acclimatization. Our climbing Sherpa provide you training course. Includes:Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 10

Trek from Thaknak to Khare (5,045m/16,486ft): 2-3 hours

Leaving Thaknak, we follow the lateral moraine of Dig Glacier to Dig Kharka, which offers spectacular views of Charpate Himal. The trail climbs through moraines to the snout of the Hinku Nup and Shar glaciers, and then climbs more steeply to Khare. From here, we can see the northern face of Mera Peak which will be an amazing experience. After lunch we can hike in and around Khare. Overnight at Khare. Includes:Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 11

Khare: Acclimatization

We have a separate day set aside solely for acclimatization and basic training just to prepare ourselves better for the Mera Peak climb. Our climbing leader will help us polish our basic climbing techniques and demonstrate the best ways to use our climbing gears like the ice axe, harness, ascender climbing boots and crampons. The training will also include learning the best technique to use the rope for climbing up and down. Overnight in Khare. Includes: Breakfast ,Lunch , Dinner, Accommodation

Day 12

Trek from Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780m/18,958ft): 6-7 hours

We walk through a boulder-strewn course on a steep trail to reach the Mera Peak Base Camp. From here, we continue further through the Mera La pass to reach the Mera High Camp. Our path is along a rocky trail, which can be hazardous if it has recently snowed, as there are a number of crevasses here. We make our way to the top of the rock band, which is marked by a large cairn. Then set up a high camp while enjoying excellent views of Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, the south face of Lhotse, Nuptse, Chamlang and Baruntse. Overnight at Mera High Camp. Includes: Lunch, Dinner and Tented accommodation

Day 13

Summit Mera Peak (6,461m/21,190ft), trek to KongmaDingma (4,850m/15912ft):10-11 hours

We wake up around 2 in the morning for breakfast. It’s going to be very cold in the beginning but we get warmer as we continue up the glacier and onto a peculiar ridge. The first rays of the sun hit the big peaks in an amazing red glow. The route is still non-technical as we slowly climb higher into the ever-thinning air. The slope steepens for a section behind the ridge and the summit comes back into view. At the foot of the final steep summit cone, we may attach to a fixed rope depending on the conditions. The summit is only a few meters away. From the summit, we take in amazing views of the mighty Himalayas including Mt. Everest (8,848m), Cho-Oyu (8,210m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,463m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Nuptse (7,855m), Chamlang (7,319m), Baruntse (7 ,129m) and others. Later, we retrace our steps back to the high camp where we rest for a while before descending to Kongma Dingma. Overnight in Kongma Dingma Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tented accommodation

Day 14

Trek from Kongma Dingma to Seto Pokhari (5035m/16519 ft): 5-6 hours

We head up into the upper yak pastures of this incredible remote valley. All morning the great flanks of Chamlang dominate our left, and the spire of Baruntse comes into view beyond. The terrain is remarkably benign, especially considering we are actually heading directly into the very epicenter of the highest group of mountains in the world. The valley floor remains broad and straight, only gradually rising to the blind alley of peaks ahead. It is almost a shock to realize that the two majestic mountains we are heading straight towards are none other than Everest and Lhotse. Overnight in camp at Seto Pokhari. Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tented accommodation

Day 15

Trek from Seto Pokhari to Amphu Labcha Base Camp (South) (5,650m/18,536 ft): 5-6 hours

This is one of the remotest parts of the Himalayas, so we rarely see any trekkers en-route except if it is a very high tourist season. From SetoPokhari we move ahead and pass through several lakes that occupy the upper Hunku Basin. After walking past Hunku Pokhari, our trail is next to the magnificent Hunku Glacier. We continue further with another lake close by to our trail. Overnight in Amphu Labcha Base Camp. Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tented accommodation

Day 16

Trek/climb from Amphu Labcha Base Camp to Chhukung (4,750m/15,580 ft): 9-10 hours

We cross the Amphu Labcha La pass (5,845m) then walk across the Amphu Labcha Glacier. Lhotse Shar Glacier and Imja Glacier are nearby. Our trail also half circles the ImjaTsho lake before walking on the main Island Peak trail. Moving further ahead, we are also in the vicinity of the Ama Dablam Glacier before reaching Chhukung. Overnight in Chhukung. Includes: Breakfast, Lunch,Dinner, Tented accommodation

Day 17

Rest day in Chhukung

Day 18

Trek to Island peak base camp: 4 hours

The path from Chhukung leads fairly steep way climbing south then turning east to the main line of the valley. It then winds along or below the southern flank of the moraine from the Lhotse Glacier. Continue short pleasant walking along a stream-side leads to what we call Big-rock. The route to the AmphuLapcha lies to the southeast. A crisis cross route through the Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines leads to a wide valley flanking the SW side of Island peak. Overnight in Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m/17,060ft). Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Accommodation

Day 19

Summit to Island peak (6187meters) and return to base camp/ Chhukung (4750meters)

Island Peak Ascent (6,189m/20,305ft), from early in the morning will have to climb the rock gully. This is not difficult but there are several short rock steps to climb before you emerge on the right side of the gully. The route then follows a ridge-line, which leads to an exhilarating and exposed traverse onto the snout of the summit glacier. You will need to rope up for the glacier as it contains several crevasses but it leads without difficulty, to a 100m(330ft) snow and ice slope (40-45°) on which the guides will fix a rope. From the top of this slope, 3 rope lengths along a sharp summit ridge lead to the top. After enjoying the summit views you will descend all the way to Chhukung for overnight. Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Accommodation

Day 20

Trek to from Chukkung to Tengboche - Approx. 8 hours.

After difficult but rewarding day of our Island Peak. We walk down hill to Tengboche via beautiful Pangboche village. On the way down we can enjoy the missing beauty of nature with smooth walk all the way to Tengboche. Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Accommodation

Day 21

Trek to Namche Bazzar: 6 hour

Walk down to the valley from where the trail is shallower through alpine meadows. Followed by climb gradually up to Tengboche (3,870m/12,697ft) where the biggest monastery lies in the whole of Khumbu. The rear of monastery and continue down until you reach PhunkiTenga. Climb up gradually through a forest. Once you are out of the forest, you will be walking along a ridge from where you can see down on your left some of the deepest gorges of Nepal. In spring, the rhododendrons will look superb making the valley even more beautiful. Reach Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft), for overnight Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Accommodation

Day 22

Trek to Lukla (2804meters) : 6hours:

Trek back to Lukla along the same trail, although it always looks different coming from the opposite direction on arrival in Lukla you will have time to relax and celebrate the completion of your trek. You can have a good time with two local alcoholic beverages 'Chang' or 'Rakshi.' Feel free to dance with your crew-members in the Sherpa way. Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Accommodation

Day 23

Morning flight to Kathmandu from Lukla, 30 mins flight

Enjoying your last glimpse of the mountains you have recently visited for one last time on the 30 minute scenic flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu we are met and transferred back to our starting hotel. Overnight at hotel. Includes: Breakfast, Fare-well dinner & feedback, Transportation, Accommodation

Day 24

Departure

Our team will ensure that you are transferred on time to the airport for your flights if you are departing Nepal. Includes: Breakfast, Transportation

Cost Include(s)

01.  Three Meals normal (breakfast, lunch and dinner) without tea/coffee expect breakfast during the trek.

02.  All the meals and drinks during climbing period (Mera peak high camp till AmphuLabcha Pass) and Island Peak base camp to summit to Island Peak base camp)

03.  Fruits every evening after dinner as a desserts during the trek

04.  Transportations

–       Domestic Airport picks up & drops by private vehicle.

–       Round Trip flight fare KTM –Lukla–KTM & domestic airport taxes with (10+5) kg luggage fare.

–       Sightseeing in Kathmandu in Private vehicle

05.  Accommodations

–       Clean tea-house accommodation during the whole trek.

–       Three night accommodation in Kathmandu in a decent hotel @ Truly Asia Boutique or similar with breakfast basis.

–       Accommodation during whole trek will be in clean tea-houses, twin-share rooms beds with normal foam mattress and pillows included but shared bathroom and toilet.

–       Tented accommodation during the climbing period

–       All the necessary accommodations for Nepali staffs

06.  Staffs

–       One government license holder English speaking Guide and his food, accommodations, salary, insurance,equipment, medicine and transportations.

–       Porter in the ratio of 2 client:1 porter and their accommodation, transportations and salary(A porter will carry max load 20-25 kg). Water proof duffle will be provided for you to put your luggage from us.

–       Professional climbing guide for Mera Peak and Island Peak and his food, accommodations, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine and transportations.

–       Professional tour guide while sightseeing in Kathmandu valleyand his food, accommodations, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine and transportations.

07.  Permits and official arrangement

–       Sagarmatha/ Everest National Park fees.

–       Makalu National Park Fees

–       Local Permit in Lukla

–       Island Peak and Mera Peak climbing permit

–       Travel & Rescue arrangements.

–       Insurance for all the Nepali trekking and climbing team.

–       All our government taxes, VAT and official expenses.

08.  Equipment

–       Trekking Poles

–       Water proof duffle bag of 80 liter for your trekking equipment (which meant to be carried by porters)

–       Trekking T-shirt

Cost Exclude(s)

01.  All the meals during your stay in Kathmandu except breakfast at hotel

02.  Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, sweets, extra tea/coffee, hot water, device charging fee, snacks, tips, etc.,

03.  All beverages and bar bills.

04.  Local permit (if needed), donations personal equipment.

05.  Travel Insurance (Essential – Should include emergency evacuation coverage while trekking up to 5545 meters).

06.  Personal trekking and climbing equipment

07.  Entrance fee while doing sightseeing around Kathmandu

08.  Any loss arising due to unforeseen circumstances that is beyond Apex Himalaya control.

09.  Tips for guide and porter at the end of the trek

 

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All foreign nationals, except Indian citizens, need visas to enter Nepal. You can apply for a Nepalese visa from Nepalese Embassy or consulate in your home country. Alternatively, can also obtain your entry visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu upon your arrival.On arrival visa program takes more than 1:30 hours because of queue for visa and luggage.
You may need following information while filling the visa form:-
Office name: Apex Himalaya Treks & Expedition
Location: Thahity Chowk, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
Phone number of office : +977 1-4257635
House number of office: 135/13
Hotel name: _____________
Location of hotel: ___________
Phone number of hotel: _____________
Zip code: 44601
(Please note: we will send you the actual hotel detail near to date of travel.
Contact person in Nepal: Bimal Karki
Contact person number in Nepal: +977-9841037700

A valid passport must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour; two passport size photo and the visa fee in USD cash only.

New Visa Valid Fees provision from 17th July 2019
15 days US$ 30
30 days US$ 50
90 days US$ 125

Many travelers will experience culture shock upon arrival in a new country and is a common experience whether you are travelling for business, pleasure or long term settlement. Nepal is no different, as it is unique in terms of its customs, food and language.
Gathering information and being completely prepared for the unexpected will ensure you can adjust quickly to Nepal upon arrival.
The following list provides some key facts to assist in your arrival and enable easy adjustment.
Food / Water
• People eat their food with the right hand. Take care to wash your hands. Importantly, it is suggested your left hand remains below the table if you choose to eat with your hands. In most restaurants you will be provided the option of using either a spoon, fork or chopsticks.
• Nepalese food is not too spicy, though if you wish to ensure that the dish you are ordering is suitable to your tastes, it is wise to ask.
• Whilst trekking at altitude it pays to eat simple foods whilst you become accustomed to the change in oxygen levels. The general recommendations is to eat non fried foods. The traditional meal of Dahl Bhatwhich is rice, vegetable and dahl is a staple.
Culture
• Public display of affection (kissing and hugging) is considered offensive.
• When removing shoes, sandals or slippers place them the right way up. Placing them upside down is considered to bring bad luck. Inside a home or temple is it is common place to remove shoes, seek advice from your host or temple guide to clarify and direct you.
• Physical disciplining such as hitting or spanking a child by a parent is not considered improper in Nepal, though there are varying views and ideas. You will observe this at times throughout Nepal. We suggest that you don’t try and intervene. In the event that someone disciplines a child or minor in an in-appropriate manner you can be assured that another Nepali person will step in. They understand the cultural norms and nuances.
• Animals may be sacrificed during Hindu festivals and in other religious and non-religious activities such as a visit to a witch doctor. We suggest that you don’t try and intervene. This is likely to cause offence. Make enquiries with regard to what is to happen at a festival or religious event if you wish to avoid such a situation.
• In general, Nepali people are highly uncomfortable with nudity and immodest clothing. To avoid this, men should wear a top, even when it is hot. Women should cover shoulders and wear skirt/shorts at least to the knee. This is the case both in urban, rural settings and when trekking.
• If you decide to wear Nepali traditional clothing (kurta or sari for women, daurasuruwal and dhakatopi cap for men) this is usually welcomed as a sign that you respect Nepali culture.
• Nepali people take pride in their appearance and whilst it is not necessary to be too particular, having a clean and tidy appearance shows respect for yourself and for those around you – so keeping your clothing, hair and facial hair tidy will be appreciated.
On the street / General
• Be attentive on the street, assume that a vehicle may be on the opposite side that you expect it to approach. On a busy street without lights or an obvious crossing point, you may wish to cross the road with other Nepali people. A simple smile of recognition of the situation and you will find they will provide assistance.
• Buses stop even in places there aren’t bus stops. Just wave. They will stop.
• When in Nepal, don’t expect things to go on time. You will face delays almost in all activities. There is even a phrase “Nepali Time” which is used sarcastically to point out delay in activities.
• Throughout Nepal electricity outages and load shedding plays havoc with people’s lives. This can generally be avoided by staying in a reputable hotel. It is worth asking the hotel management if they have a back-up power supply and whether it is operational.
• The Nepali term for a strike “bandha” in Nepali. Although they are no longer common place, you may find yourself travelling in Nepal when a strike occurs. If there is a general and complete strike, buses may not operate and shops can be closed. Seek advice from your hotel manager, guide or local people if a strike is to occur. There is good information on the internet via a simple search.

Whilst Nepal is a very busy tourist destination, culturally the country continues to welcome visitors. There is an understanding by everyone of the importance of tourism economically.
Whether you are trekking in the mountains or touring the Kathmandu valley we suggest you that you treat the land its people with care & respect.
Below are some tips on how you can keep the environment clean and show appreciation for age-old culture and traditional religious beliefs. Nepal's Culture might be astonishing and surprising for newcomers therefore these tips are sometimes necessary.

Do

• To show gratitude and respect, use both of your hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It seen as a gesture of respect.
• Remove your shoes when entering a home, temple or monastery (and leather items in Hindu temples)

Don’t

• Remember not to point with a single finger but use a flat extended hand especially to indicate a sacred object or place.
• Among Hindus, avoid touching women and holy men. People, especially women, do not normally shakes hands when they greet one another, but instead press palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as "Namaste" greeting is preferable.
• Don't eat with your left hand. The left hand is for toileting only.
• Never eat beef in front of Hindus & Buddhist because beef is strictly prohibited among both Hindus and Buddhists. Cows are sacred in Nepal.
• Try not to step over or point your feet at another person, a sacred place or a hearth.
• Smoking and wearing scant dress in religious settings. Remember, some of the temples entrance may be prohibited for non-Hindus.
• It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on way to shrines, especially if you are non-Hindu.
• Don't offer food to a Nepalese after tasting it, nor eat from a common pot, and avoid touching your lips to a shared drinking vessel.
• The sight of men holding hands is common, but men and women holding hands, and general acts of affection, are frowned upon.
• Do walk around monastery or temple clockwise, so that the outer walls are always on your right. If you encounter a stone wall covered with Tibetan inscriptions, do the same: Walk past with the wall on your right (and don't take any of the stones).
• Don't lose your control. Raising your voice or shouting is seen as extremely bad manners in Nepal too and will only make any problem worse.
• Do get a receipt of in authenticity when purchasing an antique replica? Otherwise, you will not be allowed to take it out of the country. And don't buy ivory or fur from endangered species? Your purchases encourage the trade in such illegal goods, and you won't be allowed to bring them back home anyway.
• Don't give in to children who ask for just one rupee. Although a rupee is a small amount that anyone can spare, successful begging leads young children to drop out of school and take up panhandling as their trade. If you want to help, give to a trustworthy charity or a school.
• Don't take photographs of locals, holy shrines & temples unless consent has been provided.

Most treks pass through villages with very simple ablution facilities and farm lands. There is always villages above the trail, all water should be boiled or treated before consumption. Even clean spring water may contain biological or chemical contamination due to local minerals and be totally harmless to locals but may not be tolerated by tourists. It is wise to avoid non-boiled or untreated water. If it is available, bottled mineral water at the tea houses and lodges are provided at a reasonable cost. Consider your impact on the environment and bring water treatment methods to Nepal which ensure you don’t have to purchase bottled water or boiled water.

Internet is available in particular locations along the Everest and Annapurna treks. You can also purchase wireless modems such as NCELL, NTC for your notebook and you will be able to use them. Do not expect internet in the remote areas of trekking and climbing.

Yes. In the past, Nepal has experienced political unrest, however since November of 2006, the signed Nepal Peace Agreement, between the Government of Nepal and the Nepal Communist Party (Maoists) has brought this unrest to a close.

The best season to visit Nepal is after the monsoons that end in August until mid-December, before the winter sets in. Also, from mid-February to early June are the most preferred months by visitors. During these two periods, the rains wash the dusty tracks and the valley looks magnificent with blooming flowers. Mountain views are clear most of the time.
It is best to visit hilly areas in summer that is, the months of May and June. The average temperature at that time is around 22-25 degrees Celsius. Nights are a bit chilly in the lower Himalayan region but are comfortable. Mountainous areas are extremely unsafe during the monsoon season, which are very common. The persistent rains make the hilly tracts slippery.
In winter, most of the hilly areas become threats due to very heavy snowfall and avalanches, but if you are fond of snowfall then you can opt for the lower Himalayan regions that look beautiful covered in blankets of snow.

You should contact your general practitioner or travel clinic for the latest travel health advice. It is advisable to be up-to-date with Tetanus, Polio, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A vaccination shots. If you are extending your stay in Nepal you may need anti-malarial protection.

You can exchange in Nepal, primarily in Kathmandu and in Pokhara. It really depends on your budget and what you want to do and for how long but approximately $500-$1700 in either travelers’ cheques or cash for your trip would be sufficient. ATM cards and credit cards can be used in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other cities if additional cash needed. You will need $30 for the tourist visa fee (can receive visa upon entry) at the Kathmandu International Airport. You must pay only in cash in U.S. dollars or Euros. It is advisable to exchange your money either on your first day or the day after while you are in Kathmandu at a reliable money exchange counter.

If you are reasonably fit and enjoy walking you will find trekking suits you. Normally the shorter treks tend to be easier whilst the longer ones often require a better standard of fitness. It is important to remember, however, that trekking requires an adequate level of physical conditioning. To prepare yourself for a trek, especially a difficult one that lasts two weeks or more, some moderate physical exercise is recommended before you embark on your journey such as walking, running swimming, or hiking. It is also worth remembering you can choose the pace and direction of your trek.

The duration of the trek depends on the region of the trek and on interests which each client has. Generally speaking, treks can range from 2-3 days to a month’s time or sometimes longer periods if trekkers’ wish. Even the same trek can be of a different duration for different trekkers depending on their wishes and interests on the route.

You will mostly be on well-maintained trekking routes that consist of dirt trails. The terrain on some of these trails may be long, steep climbs or descents as well as rocky, dusty paths and forest tracks. There are also a lot of big stone steps and staircases especially on the Annapurna circuit. In some cases, treks include mountain passes so the trail can be narrow in places. You will feel a moderate altitude effect starting at around 3,000m upwards.

Most of what you need during a trek is available in Kathmandu, and you can buy them or rent them once you are there. Most books on trekking will list them; check one out before you embark on your trek. If you do not have a book yet and plan to get one only once you are in Nepal, there are some things you may want to bring from home. Bring ear-plugs to help you sleep in spite of barking dogs. A battery operated short-wave radio can be helpful to listen to weather reports or the news. Also bring along a pocket knife, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, photographic equipment, binoculars, a compass, a good watch with possibly an altimeter, and a day pack. Others, you can buy or rent in Kathmandu for reasonable price.

Generally your hotel or lodge will let you store your luggage with them for some nominal or no fee. As long as you lock up your bags, they are normally safe. If you want then we can also store your luggage at our office store room in free of cost.

The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. However, at night it is generally cold and the days are generally warm. If it is raining at the base of the mountain, it will be snowing at the top of its peak. There will be heavy snowfall during the months of December and February. It is important that you stay warm and dry in just about any condition. Temperatures could be as high as 20 degrees C and as low as -10 degrees C.

Along the trekking routes, tea-houses and lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We can also offer you sleeping bags if needed (which need to be returned after your trip) but it is a good idea to have your own sleeping equipment if possible. Accommodations have private rooms with twin beds that may be used for double or single occupancy. Tea-houses have an adjoining dining room around a fire burning stove. You may take a hot shower but need to ask them to boil the water.

In general, yes. But, it's always good to take sensible precautions in order to avoid any health problems. No matter how tempting and it can get very tempting after a long trek- avoid drinking any other water than bottled water.Do not eat roadside food that is exposed in the open air. Avoid buying and eating raw and unpeeled fruit and vegetables. Other than that, it is fine to have boiled, fried or properly packaged food items.

Altitude Sickness is the effect of altitude on those who ascent too rapidly to elevations above 3,000 meters. The basic early symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. One shouldn't ignore these early symptoms as these symptoms may lead to more serious warnings and cause death sometimes within few hours. Medicine is no substitute for descent. If a doctor is available, he may give medicine and oxygen. However, the patient must go down to lower altitude even if treatment is given.

First of all, your trekking guide will provide you with First Aid. If the case becomes more serious, you will be transferred to a health post where you can consult with a doctor. For acute sickness, at your request, you will be immediately taken down by helicopter or airplane to Kathmandu for treatment and rest. It is strongly recommended to descend from the mountain if you are suffering severely from altitude sickness.

You should bring a valid passport (must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour; keep an extra photocopy just in case), a copy of your travel insurance, cash and traveler’s checks (keep numbers and proof of purchase separately); flight tickets, emergency contact numbers of T/C’s, banks, insurance and family members and any medications.

If you want to make modifications to your customized itinerary (Not applicable for fixed departures) even after you confirmed your booking, it is possible. We provide free alterations one time. However, after this, we charge a US $30 dollar surcharge for every new modification but this must be made 15 days prior to your trip so that we can adjust our schedule to your new trip itinerary.
Cancellation of the trip is not possible and you will lose your 10% deposit amount. We won’t charge the amount if the trip is postponed (only once) with valid reason. Postponing notice is required a minimum of 30 days prior to trip departure. If you fail to give proper notice within 30 days prior to your trip departure or do not show up at your scheduled arrival time without prior notice, you will forfeit 100% of the total cost of your trip.
Note: Changes may be possible, but are not guaranteed.