Manaslu Circuit Trek
Incredible trek around Mt. Manaslu, which caters everything that an adventurous trek in Nepal does- Manaslu Circuit Trek
Begin Manaslu Circuit Trek via the historic centre of Gorkha after a 7-8 hrs drive from Kathmandu. The trail heads up the valley of the Budhi Gandaki River through wild and unexplored country inhabited mainly by members of Gurung ethnic group. The trail circumvents interesting Manaslu peak [8156m.] crossing Larkya-La pass at 5106m and finally emerges onto the Marshyangdi river valley along the main trail of Annapurna circuit. Then, the trail continues descending along the Marshyangdi river valley through the rhododendron & oak forests and finally conclude the trek at Jagat and drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar. If you want to explore the region further, you can trek further to Jomsom at Kali Gandaki river valley crossing which is another high and arduous hike through Thorung la pass at 5416 meter and conclude the trek by flying down to Kathmandu via Pokhara, or you can also avoid a flight by walking down to Pokhara from Jomsom following the Annapurna trail in 4-5 Days. Along the way you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the Annapurna Massifs and Dhaulagiri peaks.
Anyone with average physical fitness can enjoy Manaslu Circuit Trek anytime from Mar to May (spring season) and Sept to Nov (autumn season).
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1 Arrive Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel
- Day 2 Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley (Documentation day)
- Day 3 Drive to Arughat Bazaar in a private vehicle and Driveto Soti Khola by local jeep (Approx. 775m/ 7-8 hrs.)
- Day 4 Trek from Soti Khola - Machhakhola (Approx. 900m/ 5-6hrs.)
- Day 5 Trek from Macchakhola - Jagat (Approx. 1300m/ 5-6 hrs)
- Day 6 Trek from Jagat - Deng (Approx. 1860m/ 5-6 hrs)
- Day 7 Trek from Deng - Namrung (Approx. 2560m/ 5-6 hrs)
- Day 8 Trek to Lho (Approx. 3180m/ 6-7 hrs)
- Day 9 Trek to Samagoan (Approx. 3580m/ 4-5hrs)
- Day 10 Acclimatization day Excursion around Samagoan (Approx. 4400m/ 6-7 hrs)
- Day 11 Trek to Samdo (Approx. 3875m/ 4-5 hrs)
- Day 12 Acclimation /Excursion around Tibetan boarder via SamdoVillage
- Day 13 Trek to Daramashala (Approx. 4460m/ 5-6 hrs)
- Day 14 Trek to Bhimtang via larke Pass (Approx. 5160m/ 8-9hrs)
- Day 15 Trek to Tilche (Approx. 1963m / 4-5hrs)
- Day 16 Trek to Jagat (Approx. 1300m/ 5-6 hrs)
- Day 17 Drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar
- Day 18 Final Departure
Service Includes:
- Accommodation, English speaking local guide, porter including all meals during trek
- Manaslu Restricted permit fees
- Manaslu Conservation area permit fees (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation area permit fees (ACAP)
- Transfer from Kathmandu -Arughat by private vehicle
- Local Jeep from Arughat-Sotikhola
- Local Jeep from Jagat- Besisahar
- Transfer Besisahar - Kathmandu on private vehicle
- Sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley with an English speaking local guide inclusive of all monumental entrance fee
- Airport transfers with an escorts by a Private Vehicle(Non-A/C)
- Medical kit bag carried by guide
- 3 Nights' accommodation on 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast only
- Equipment clothing for porter & staffs
- Insurance for all staff & porters
- All applicable government taxes
Service Excludes:
- Nepal Visa:http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/content/visa-on-arrival-1.html
- Any International & any extra airfare
- Lunch and Dinner during staying in Kathmandu
- Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
- Tips for guide, porter and drivers
- Any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/road block due to any reason,
- Extra expenses table drinks, snacks while walking
- Hot water shower, battery charge, WiFi etc during Trek
- Any trek or tours other than mentioned in the itinerary
- Your Insurance and Medical expenses: https://ss.globalrescue.com/partner/explorehimalaya/index.html
- Any other tours, transfers and services other than above.
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1
Arrive Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel
It’s a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. And as your plane lands at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our waiting support team will meet and greet you at the arrivals and escort you to your hotel. Overnight at hotel..
- Day 2
Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley (Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Patan Durbar Square
Today is the day for a delightful visit to some heritage sites of Kathmandu, which starts soon after breakfast. First we visit Pashupatinath Temple, the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Not only for Nepali, it is one of the holiest shrines for all Hindu round the world. Then after, there is a guided tour to Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and popular pilgrimage site that includes over a huge number of Tibetan Gompas or monasteries. At last, we take a tour to Patan also called as Lalitpur (the City of Artisans), which is 5km away from Kathmandu. We walk through Patan Durbar Square, and delight in the architectural wonders of Malla era. Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple and Golden Temple are the major attractions at the square. Overnight at hotel..
- Day 3
Drive to Arughat Bazaar in a private vehicle and Drive to Soti Khola by local jeep (Approx. 775m/ 7-8 hrs.)
After breakfast we start our journey to Arughat Bazaar. Leaving Kathmandu city behind, we drive along Prithivi Highway passing through the beautiful river view and small clusters of highway settlements. After about 5-6 hours’ of drive, we will reach Arughat Bazaar, from where we continue to Soti Khola in a jeep. After another 1:30 -2 hours’ drive through terraces and picturesque hamlets along Budhi Gandaki, we reach Soti Khola, where we accommodate tonight. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 4
Trek to Machhakhola (Approx. 900m/ 5-6 hrs.)
Today is the first day of our trek. We walk by the dense forest passing through a number of small villages tucked into the hillside, till we reach a widening of the valley, opposite the point where a large tributary stream enters the Budhi Gandaki River. The terraced cultivated fields belong to the upper village of Lapubesi (880m). Descending down through the wide, sandy riverbed which follows a trail meandering below the steep, craggy valley side, we then climb again to a ridge to Almara. Further a few walk will lead us to Machha Khola, which literally means “Fish River”. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 5
to Jagat (Approx. 1300m/ 5-6 hrs)
The trail makes some minor ups and downs and eventually crosses the Tharo Khola and reaches Khorlabesi. After a few more ascends and descends we come across a small hotspring in Tatopani. The valley sides remain steep until they are impassable and the route then switches to the left bank by way of a suspension bridge. The trail is quite exposed and challenging in places. After a short section of forest path we reach Dobhan. Above Doban, the Budhi Gandaki descends an impressive series of rapids. Beyond this steep section, the river is much more placid, meandering across a broad gravel bed. At Lauri, we cross the river on a suspension bridge, and then climb on a high path to the fields of Jagat. Overnight in teahouse. .
- Day 6
Trek to Deng (Approx. 1860m/ 5-6 hrs)
We begin today’s trek by climbing over a rocky ridge to Salleri with impressive views of Shrigi Himal (7187m), and then descend to Sirdibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues up to Ghatta Khola. We further continue walking upstream to a long suspension bridge in Philim, a large Gurung village. The trail turns north just above the lowest houses in the village and stays on a fairly level trail as it crosses millet fields to Ekle Bhatti. The route now enters a steep, uninhabited gorge. At this point, we descend to the grassy land slopes, cross the Budhi Gandaki, then trek along the west bank for a while, then cross to the east bank to cross back once again. As we continue through the trail the valley widens and we pass through bamboo forests to the Deng Khola. Upon crossing the Khola, we reach the tiny village of Deng. Overnight in teahouse..
- Day 7
Trek to Namrung (Approx. 2560m/ 5-6 hrs)
After a brief walk beyond Deng, we cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to Rana at 1910m. From a bridge, we climb a bit to join a trail from Bhi, then head west up the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail also passes through forests and mani stones (prayers etched onto wayside rocks), a sure sign that we are entering a high country Buddhist region. After about 4 hours, we reach Ghap, which straddles the river. We cross the Budi Gandaki several times today and come across several gompas en route. As we move ahead, we can feel a perceptible change in the climate and culture with gain in altitude. The higher altitude takes us into alpine territory and increasing mountain views. The trail follows the river upstream through a dense forest. After crossing the river at an impressive spot where it thunders down a narrow gorge, the forest becomes less dense and the trail is fine again. The pleasant walk continues and after a last steep climb we reach Namrung where our special permit is checked. Overnight in teahouse. .
- Day 8
Trek to Lho (Approx. 3180m/ 6-7 hrs)
After crossing Budhi Gandaki, we trek through the forest, passing through a stone arch and reach to Lhi. Lhi is a village well known for its chortens and barley terraces. Above this village the Simnag valley opens out and there are extensive pastures. Climbing gently now, and crossing a large stream flowing down from the Lidanda Glaciers, we reach the Tibetan village of Sho, 3000m. We get our first incredible views of the Manaslu North and then of Manaslu main ahead of Sho. After we pass through Sho, we continue to Lho, a large village at 3150 metres where there is a lovely little monastery and numerous chortens and manis. We can have an impressive view of Ganesh I from here. Overnight in teahouse. .
- Day 9
Trek to Samagoan (Approx. 3580m/ 4-5hrs)
Leaving the village, we follow the right bank of the river, with views of Peak 29 ahead. We also get an opportunity to enjoy the mesmerizing views of many other mountains. As we continue on the main trail, we pass through Shyala village, and then we go down to the river that originates from the glacier of Pungyen. We will pass through many chortens and monasteries. After crossing the ridge we reach the fields of Samagaon to stay for a night. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 10
Acclimatization day Excursion around Samagoan (Approx. 4400m/ 6-7 hrs)
We don’t walk further today as we stay for acclimatization. However, we don’t just stay idle either. We explore the village, and observe the lifestyles of the locals and experience their culture. We climb the ridge to Pungyen Monastery which is about two and half hours’ hike. We visit Birendra Tal which is a glacial lake at 3,450m. After that, we return to our respective tea house. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 11
Trek to Samdo (Approx. 3875m/ 4-5 hrs)
The thundering Budhi Gandaki trickles to a stream as we continue to follow its course ever upwards. We are surrounded by spectacular mountains from all sides. Manaslu is particularly impressive. We can also have the views of Samdo (Pang phuchuli), Nagdi chuli, Simnang Himal, Manaslu glacier and several other awesome peaks of the region. The trail passes through wide pasturelands, juniper trees and mani walls. After crossing to the east bank of the river, we reach the last permanent settlement in the valley, which is called Samdo, a village of yak-herding community. Overnight at teahouse. .
- Day 12
Acclimatization /Excursion around Tibetan boarder via Samdo Village
We can either hike to the back of Samdo village through a trade pass to Tibet, or (if we want a longer hike), take a trip to Gya-La pass to the north of the village, a more frequented trade route than the earlier one. In both cases, we can savor the breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu along with other Himalayan ranges including Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkye Peak, Cheo etc. En route we pass through seasonal herders’ settlements. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 13
Trek to Daramashala (Approx. 4460m/ 5-6 hrs)
Starting our day, we cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river. We come to the ruins of an abandoned village, known as Larkya Bazaar. Presumably this village thrived as a trading point, with Tibet lying over the Gya La. The commerce seems to have dried up leading to the migration of the settlers. On the way, we also notice the Mani walls and prayer flags, which signify the closeness of Larkya La Pass. After crossing a few streams, we will observe the magnificent view of Larkya Glacier. Nearing the Larkya Glacier, we reach a stone guest house known as Dharmasala or Larkya La Phedi., which has been built to serve the travelers crossing the Larkya La. Today’s trek gives us plenty of time to acclimatize and relax. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 14
Trek to Bhimtang via Larkya-La Pass (Approx. 5160m/ 8-9 hrs)
Today is a longer and more strenuous day than usual as we have to cross the Larkya La which is the highest point on Manaslu trek situated at 5,213m. After walking across moraines of the glacier, we make a gradual ascent which becomes steeper as we near the top of the pass. From there, we can witness the views of great mountains such as Humlung Himal, Cheo Himal Kang Guru and Annapurna II. Then, we further cross the moraine and climb down to another grassy moraine. As we come down, the trail becomes easier to walk. Finally with a feeling of accomplishment, we reach Bhimthang for overnight. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 15
Trek to Tilche (Approx. 1963m / 4-5hrs)
Today’s trek of around 5 hours follow the trail downstream of Marshyangdi River, passing through the scattered villages. As we walk through the pasture of Sangure Kharka, we have the great views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal. After crossing a bridge over Dudh Khola, we descend into the rhododendron forests and pass through a narrow valley to reach the high cultivated land at Karche (2785 metres). As we continue, we pass across fields and make a steep climb over a ridge to reach Tiliche. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 16
Trek to Jagat (Approx. 1300m/ 5-6 hrs)
Leaving Tiliche, we cross the Marshyangdi river and join the main Annapurna Circuit with the hoards of trekkers and soon reach Dharapani. We have a gradual descend all day along the bank of Dudh Khola and Marshyangdi River. On the way, an initially narrow gorge briefly opens to Tal, a beautiful village. The area here was formed when the valley was blocked by a landslide and a dam formed behind the lake. The lake has long dried up and now the village of Tal sits on the flat land. Eventually, after crossing Tal, we reach Jagat for the overnight. Overnight at teahouse..
- Day 17
Drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar
After about two weeks’ of trekking in the Himalaya, we return back to Kathmandu. A seven hours’ drive to Kathmandu via Besi Sahar offers an opportunity to enjoy both hill and mountain landscapes. The drive is often along the banks of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli. We also drive by some beautiful villages with farming terraces on both sides of the road. Upon recahing Kathmandu, you will be escorted to your respective hotel. Overnight at hotel..
- Day 18
Depart Kathmandu
Our office representative will take you to the airport. With all the wonderful memories of Manaslu trek, you will fly back to your home. Have a nice journey! .
TRIP GRADE- Moderate to fairly challenging
This is a long trek that goes right into remotest corner of high mountain country and over high pass. Physically quite tiring, it involves approx 6-8 hours trekking along rocky ridges. No previous experience is required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercise and enjoy walking in the high altitude conditions.
TREK TYPE
We offer several options regarding the organization of your trek:
1) Guide, Accommodation and Porter trek (GAP trek):
This is an abbreviation of Guide Accommodation and Porters (GAP). This option of the trek is for those who want basic support from us. This is the most economic way to do trekking in Nepal. We provide an English speaking local Sherpa guide, book and pay for the accommodation in local lodges during trek and arrange required porters and trekkers pay for meals directly to the local lodge owner. Expect to spend around 2000-2500 rupees (approximately $20-25) a day for food. Guide, accommodation and porters are covered in the price.
Includes: Accommodation, guide and porters
Excludes: Food
2) Camping trek
On camping trek you will be sleeping and eating on tents. A trekking crew contains one sirdar, one cook and a numbers of kitchen crew, Sherpa assistants and porters depending on the size of the group. Under the leadership of the Sirdar (the local trek leader) the crew will ensure you take the right path. The kitchen crew will keep you well fed with delicious and nutritious meals. The porters shall transport the gear from camp to camp. Our main aim is to make the trek as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. Sirdar and his assistants speak basic English, good enough to explain to you about the places, local culture or any sight that catches your eyes.
Includes: Guide, Porters, Cook, All meals and tents
3) Lodge or tea house trek
Although simple, the teahouses or lodges do provide shelter and warmth and are normally run by friendly local families. The lodge or tea house treks are less expensive then camping trek and are largely suitable for small group.
Includes: Accommodation in Lodge, guide, porters and all meals
YOUR TREK CAN BE ORGANIZED IN ALL THE 3 WAYS AS MENTIONED ABOVE.
ACCOMMODATION
We have a pool of star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We will accommodate you and your group in local lodge available each day. We send a porter ahead of us to book the required rooms for the group (rooms cannot always be booked in advance).You stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. Please remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary. It is cheaper to stay in Lodge rather than organizing a camping trek.
Camping trek means sleeping in tents.
On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘A’ shaped. Foam mattress with insulation underneath is provided for sleeping. Clients need to have their own sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. If you wish, you can bring your own ‘Air pillow’.
FOOD
Lodge Trek:
Meals are included in our price and are taken in Lodges available along the trail. You can find a considerable variety of Nepali and Western food as well as drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer).
Camping Trek:
Meals are prepared by our cook. We provide three tasty and nutritious meals daily along with drinks.
GAP Trek:
You will have to make your own eating arrangements in the many Lodges available along the trail. Expect to spend around 2000-2500 Rupees (approximately $20-25) a day for food. Guide, accommodation and porters are covered in the price.
WATER
On camping trek, our staff will boil water and cook meals treated by potassium permanganate or iodine. On GAP trek and Lodge trek, you will be able to buy safe hot drinks in the tea house.
We recommend you to bring water purification pills. On the trail, water from stream is safe if away from settlements.
LUGGAGE WHILE TREKKING
During the trek, your main luggage will be carried by porter or yaks. Please keep your luggage as light as possible around 12 to 15 kgs. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket etc. You can leave your valuable items at your hotel while trekking. Many hotels have a locker system and provide a deposit slip for the valuables kept under the hotel's safekeeping.
GROUP LEADER AND CREW
We provide different options concerning leadership in order to match your requirements:
1) Western leader
2) Trained Nepali Trek leader (experienced and knowledgeable)
3) Sherpa Guide (handles the logistics and guides you and your team on the trek)
The Sherpa guide (commonly called Sirdar) will be accompanied by a crew of porters. On camping trek, there will be 2/3 porters for each members while on GAP and Lodge trek 1 porter for 2 members.
JOIN A GROUP OR PRIVATE TRIP
Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to join this trip please check our ‘2018 departures’ link for availability, dates and price. If you would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people (minimum 1 & maximum 100 at a time).
If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list we are ready to tailor a trip to suit your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to get you on the trip you want, when you want.
GROUP SIZE ON FIXED DEPARTURE TRIP
If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of group varies, minimum no of persons required to operate a trip is 2 and the maximum is 12 people.
PERSONAL EXPENSES
Lodge trek and Camping trek:
You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking, tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places).
GAP trek:
You need to pay for your meals and should expect to spend around 2000-2500 Rupees a day for your food and snacks.
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise that you can allocate 5- 10 % of the total tour cost as tips.
COMMUNICATION
En route there are some places with CDMA facilities and very limited internet facility, which is sometime unreliable. If it is crucial for you to keep in contact with your family or others, EXPLORE HIMALAYA can provide you a mobile satellite phone (rental charge on request).
TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENT
Trekking: You will need walking boots, sleeping bag (4 seasons/ -20C rated), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack.
Comprehensive list of equipments will be provided once you book your trip or check CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT LIST LINK.
GEARS AVAILABLE IN KATHMANDU
It's not necessary to spend a lot of money buying extra equipment and clothing before your trip. Majority of these gears can be bought or hired at reasonable rates in Kathmandu.
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Lodge/ Tea House Trek, GAP Trek & Camping Trek
Each morning after packing our bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the day's walk. After walking for 3-4 hours we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon's walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day's adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.
However, on a camping trek, you begin your day with a hot cup of tea which will be served to you in the tent at 6 am, followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. Other day activities are the same as mentioned above.
MEETING AND GREETING IN KATHMANDU
You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a “meeting and greeting” service at airport. You just pass on the Customs and come out of the Terminal building where you will see someone standing with a placard with either ‘Explore Himalaya’ or your name written on it. Our airport representative or tour officer will greet you and welcome you with a garland.
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO
The best seasons to trek in the Manaslu region are Autumn (from mid-September till November end) and Spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher everyday. The nights are cold (between -10 C to 5C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 20C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Trekking during the monsoon is not recommended, as the visibility during monsoon is limited. Trekking during the winter is possible; however, it is much colder than Autumn and Spring.
March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling. Please choose the time that is convenient for you.
FLIGHT AND LAND TRANSFERS
The starting point of the trek is Soti Khola, which is connected by a 6/7 hours’ drive from Kathmandu. On your return, you will drive back from Jagat via Besisahar to Kathmandu.
PEOPLE AND CULTURE
The most prominent ethnic groups in this region are Gurungs, Brahmins, Chhettris, Manangas, Tamangs and Tibetans. The subtropical lowlands are inhabited by people whose dressing and appearance are more typically 'Nepali'. The inhabitants of the upper Budhi Gandaki, a region known as Nupri ('the western mountains'), are direct descendants of Tibetan immigrants. Their speech, dress and customs are quite similar to the neighboring Tibetans. Both Hinduism and Buddhism are practiced in the Manaslu region, however, Buddhism is the predominant religion.
Apart from cultivating rice, millet, corn, tobacco and wheat, the local people also earn their living through trade with Tibet.
VISA
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Visa is also issued at the entry points. It can be extended at the Department of Immigration, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. Children under 10 years need not pay any visa fee. People willing to get entry Visa at the air port or any of the land entry points are required to fill a visa form with passport photograph. So, please download form from the link below (visa form) and get ready while you are passing through the immigration Point.
Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries
Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days - US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days - US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency
Tourist Visa Extension
* Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day
* Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January - December).
HEALTH ISSUES
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio. The main health consideration in high altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them in Kathmandu. For your safety, we also carry the ‘hyperbaric Altitude Chamber’ or ‘Gamow Bag’. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and to handle the low oxygen rate.
For your service, we carry a medical kit with standard prescribed medicines along with a users’ manual which you can use upon your own risk. We do not take any medical liability since our staffs are not qualified to prescribe medicines. If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude area before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly be of help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.
RESCUE / EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu
INSURANCE
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Explore Himalaya, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible.
As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear strewn with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Explore Himalaya works with the motto ‘Development through Tourism’. Keeping in line with this motto, Explore Himalaya Community Service Project (EHCSP) has been conceived to empower underprivileged, marginalized, poor and minority segments of Nepal.
Since its inception, EHCSP has been incessantly facilitating and advocating for school education, health, community development, forest conservation, agriculture, culture preservation and fund raising. Explore Himalaya encourages its clients to contribute for the development of Nepal.
CARE FOR PORTERS AND STAFF
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. We are the first ever company to supply high-altitude porters with crampons.
We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter Protection group (IPPG - www.ippg.net).
TRIP EXTENSIONS
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet, India or Bhutan, whichever seems more appealing to you. Since the trek ends in Pokhara, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal, it would be nice and relaxing for you to spend a day or two taking in the sights and sounds of this scenic city.
DISCLAIMER
It is fundamental you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken only as a guideline. We can not be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties etc. In such cases, Explore Himalaya shall provide suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Explore Himalaya shall only be responsible for refunds after deducting the expenses already incurred.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
1) It is fundamental you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken only as a guideline. We can not be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties etc. In such cases, Explore Himalaya shall provide suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Explore Himalaya shall only be responsible for refunds after deducting the expenses already incurred.
2) Your booking will be confirmed by email once we receive your deposit of USD 300 and the signed copy of booking form and contract.
The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 months prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.
3) If you cancel, the following scale of charges will apply:
2 months before departure – Loss of deposit (US$ 300)
29 days to 2 months before departure – 30% of total trip cost
10 to 28 days before departure – 60% of total trip cost
Less than 10 days before departure – 100% of total trip cost
If you still have any questions regarding this trip, please feel free to contact us at enquiry@explorehimalaya.com or directly by phone: 977-1-4418100. We answer all enquiries within 24 hours.
- February 28 2019
- March 6 2019
- March 13 2019
- March 21 2019
- April 3 2019
- April 10 2019
- April 24 2019
- May 8 2019
- May 14 2019
- May 19 2019
- September 25 2019
- October 9 2019
- October 28 2019
- November 9 2019
Testimonials
We had a fantastic time and that the valley you recommended that we go into was brilliant. The views and the remoteness were absolutely beautiful. I got to the top of the peak you climbed before with Pasang, Jo’s stomach stopped her going above 5500m. We were well cared for and the food was really good. In particular we felt that Kusang will make a really good sirdar as well as being an excellent cook.
Happy Explorers
We had a fantastic time and that the valley you recommended that we go into was brilliant. The views and the remoteness were absolutely beautiful.
Community Service
We work with the motto "Tourism for Development". Explore Himalaya Community Service Project was conceived to empower underprivileged segments of Nepal.
