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We've given each of our tours a comfort rating and a tour pace, walking or cycling grade to give you a general idea about the level of activity on each tour and the standard of accommodation you will be staying in at the end of your day's adventure.
Often you'll stay in different styles of accommodation during your tour; so we make an average rating across the entire tour. For more information on where you'll stay each night, please refer to the day by day tour itinerary.
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The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these trip notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations.
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Local Crew: Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, the Tour Leaders may organise a group’s tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.
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Accordingly, you should allow £60 for tipping.
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Tour Leader: At your discretion you might also consider tipping your Tour Leader in appreciation of the efficiency and service you receive.
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Local Currency: Nepali Rupee.
Recommended Currency for Exchange: US$ or GBP.
ATM Availability: Although you may occasionally find cash machines these are very unreliable – do not rely on plastic!
Credit Card Acceptance: Credit cards are generally accepted in large establishments inKathmandu and not on the trek.
Travellers Cheques: In Kathmandu only.
Additional Information: Please note that US$100 is charged for the professional use of a video camera within the Everest National Park.
Up-to-date information re:global exchange rates can be obtained at https://www.currency-express.com/explore/
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| UK | Nepal | |
|---|---|---|
| Tea/Coffee | £1.50 | £0.50 |
| Soft Drink | £1.50 | £0.70 |
| Bottled Water | £1.50 | £0.30 |
| Bottle of Beer | £3.50 | £3.50 |
| 2 Course Meal* | £15.00 | £7.60 |
| 3 Course Meal** | £20.00 | £10.00 |
| Bottle of Wine | £14.50 | £12.00 |
| Breakfast | £5.00 |
*Cheap local fare in a small cafe or restaurant.
**Typical food in a simple, reasonably comfortable mid-range restaurant.
It is a condition of joining any of our tours that you must have valid travel insurance. It must indicate that you have cover for (at least) medical expenses and emergency repatriation in the event of illness or injury. We also strongly recommend your policy includes cancellation protection as all deposit paid are non-refundable.
If you require travel insurance for your tour, Explore Worldwide is an appointed representative of Campbell Irvine Limited, who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services authority. Our travel insurance policy is specially tailored to the needs of the adventure traveller and will cover you for any included activity on any Explore trip. You can either purchase this at the time of booking or call us 0844 499 0901 after you have booked.
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All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
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An entry visa is required by UK, USA, CAN, AUS and NZ citizens. Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate.
Nepal Visa: Visas can be obtained from the Nepalese embassy prior to travel or on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and various international border crossings beyween Nepal and its neighbours. A passport-sized photograph for immigration is required - please bring this in your hand luggage. In addition, this trekking trip in Nepal requires 2 photos for the various permits required (although they won’t always be requested). Please bring a total of 3 photographs.
All visas sold on arrival are multiple entry visas and they are available to cover 3 different durations of visit ; a 15 day visa costing US$25, a 30 day costing US$40 and a 90 day visa costing US$100. Please ensure you purchase the duration sufficient to cover your whole visit including days of entry and exit. Please do note that these durations refer to each entry into Nepal e.g. 15 days for each entry.
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Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against infectious hepatitis, tetanus, typhoid, polio and diphtheria and Japanese encephalitis. Most malaria transmission is in the low lying southern plains of the Terai which are not visited on this tour .In addition travellers may wish to take immunisation against meningococcal meningitis and Japanese encephalitis - we suggest that you discuss this and the latest advice on Malaria in Nepal with your G.P or local travel clinic.
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The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at http://www.explore.co.uk/Travelhealth/ and from your local healthcare provider.
Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.
Back to topWe strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs, including advice re: the legality of and local attitudes towards same-sex relationships. For UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice follow the link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
Back to topThe altitude of Kalar Pattar makes this trip more suitable for the serious walker with previous experience of hill-walking. We have included time for acclimatisation and extreme cases of altitude sickness are rare, but if it becomes necessary for someone to abandon the trek in the interests of safety the tour leader’s decision is final. A PAC bag (portable altitude chamber) is carried on all departures of this tour.
Insurance: Please ensure that your insurance policy covers you to the altitude indicated below in the section entitled “Medical examination” before you come on tour. If you have Explore insurance you will be covered to this altitude.
Medical Examination: You should visit your GP and specifically mention the maximum altitude the trek reaches, i.e. 5545m/18,193’. We will take 8 days to reach this point.
Back to topGradient Chart
Seasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable. For up-to-date information on the weather worldwide please visit www.bbc.co.uk/weather.
Back to topDaytime temperatures will vary from about 20°C/80°F to 35°C/95°F at lower elevations to around 10°C /50°F higher up. During the evening, night and early morning, the temperature will be considerably lower and may drop as low as freezing and sometimes down to -20°C at Lobuche. Please bear in mind that snow may be encountered at higher altitudes and weather can change suddenly at any time of year.
Back to topCustomers on all our treks to Nepal receive a free distinctive Explore! Kitbag at the start of their tour in Kathmandu. Approximately 80 litres in size it’s ideal for all items you need to take on trek and is the luggage preferred by our porters. You can leave the things you don’t want to take on trek behind in the main bag you travelled with.
Back to topYour luggage should consist of three main pieces:
Main Baggage: The item of luggage used to carry all your belongings in the hold of the plane and used to store all of the items you don't need on trek. This can be left behind at the group hotel used prior to the trek. Standard Airline allowance: 44lbs/20kgs.
Trek Kit Bag:
Customer on all of our treks in Nepal receive a free Explore kitbag on joining the tour in Kathmandu. Approximately 80 litres in size it’s ideal for all items you need to take on trek and the luggage preffered by our porters. The weight limit for this is 10kg but you will probably find that you do not need this much. Trek Allowance: 22lbs/10kgs.
Daysac/Rucksack: To carry all personal effects required throughout the day’s trek, such as waterproofs, suncream etc. Carried by yourself. During the course of a trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage which is being carried for you by the porters. In any mountain region the weather can change rapidly and you must be equipped for this eventuality. Your daysac should therefore be large enough to carry the following: Waterproofs, fleece jacket/sweater, long trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun hat, sun cream, water bottle (minimum 1 litre). Most people normally find that this adds up to about 2 to 3kg. Camera equipment can be heavy so think carefully when deciding what to take. It is usually more comfortable to carry a larger pack than one which is overfull or with bits tied to the outside – aim for a 30-35 litre capacity pack. We advise you to line the sack with a large plastic bag to keep the contents dry. Other optional items in a daysac might be a diary or a book to read at lunch time. On a few occasions it is also necessary to carry your own packed lunch. Your daysac could be used as hand luggage on the flight to Nepal bearing in mind that shoulder bags are not practical for the trek.
Advice on how and what to pack for the trek will be given at the tour briefing but it may be useful to do a trial pack before you leave home.
Back to topBeing properly equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. The following check list and notes to be sure that you have what you need for the actual trek.
Walking Boots
Probably the trickiest part of all. We strongly recommend walking in good boots. Trainers, tennis shoes etc. do not give the ankle support afforded by a decent pair of boots. Many people now trek in the lighter weight Goretex or leather boots and these are usually satisfactory. They have the advantage that they take little breaking in. The slightly heavier traditional leather walking boots are also good. Ideally, visit a specialist ‘outdoor pursuits’ shop who will offer advice, and resist the temptation to buy ‘fashion’ footwear which give little support. Above all, your boots must be well broken in and comfortable. We do not recommend borrowing or renting boots. It is a good idea to carry your boots in your hand luggage on international flights or wear them – should your luggage be delayed, your well broken in boots are the one thing, which will be irreplaceable. Gaiters are useful to keep snow out of your boots.
Long Trousers
For everyday walking, light cotton trousers are the most suitable. Knee length shorts are acceptable in the more remote areas, but to avoid giving offence in the villages, you should cover up with trousers. Although comfortable, leggings are also unsuitable as they too cause offence to local people.Jeans are not recommended as they are often difficult to walk in over longer distances and become cumbersome when wet.
Down Jacket
After sunset, temperatures can fall below freezing. A down jacket is the lightest and most convenient way of keeping warm when the temperature drops. Down jackets can be inexpensively hired or bought in Nepal. Details will be given at the briefing in Kathmandu.
Waterproofs
Breathable waterproofs not only protect against rain and wind but also stop you from overheating. They ‘breathe' and avoid condensation which you will experience from nylon waterproofs. Rain during the trekking season is fairly rare but can be heavy if it does happen.
Gloves
Especially useful in the morning and in the evening at higher altitudes. Thermal types are most suitable.
Socks
It is best to wear a pair of reasonably thick loop stitch socks. This helps to protect your feet against blisters. Avoid nylon socks, they are abrasive, don’t breathe well and can cause blisters.
Lightweight Shoes or Trainers
Useful in towns and when travelling.
Thick fleece pullover/jacket
A thick fleece pullover or jacket is necessary as nights can be very cold at altitude. Make sure that your waterproof jacket is loose enough to wear over your pullover or jacket.
Track Suit
Comfortable and much more practical (and warmer) to sleep in than pyjamas. Alternatively, thermal underwear is good.
Thin Shirt/T-Shirt
Thick Shirt or Thermal Vest
Warm Hat
Back to topSleeping Bag- The teahouses we use on trek all provide bedding and blankets however you will need a 4-season sleeping bag and fleece liner for warmth.
You may wish to take a bandana which can be useful during the days.
Almost every item required for a trek can be purchased or hired in Kathmandu and your Tour Leader can advise on the best shops to visit at your tour briefing.
Back to topSleeping Bag
As you do not carry it yourself this may be down or synthetic, but it should be 4-season (temperature –20°C to –5°C). As most treks pass through a variety of climatic conditions, a long side zip is a good idea. A cotton liner helps to keep your bag clean. Good sleeping bags are expensive but can be rented or bought quite easily and cheaply in Kathmandu (approx 50-60 Nepali Rupees per day), so if you don't own one you could consider this option. Details can be dealt with at the briefing in Kathmandu.
Water Bottle
Water along the trail must never be considered as drinkable. Each day you must sterilise water with Chlorine Dioxide with which to fill your own bottle. 1 litre is the minimum size suitable. If you dislike the taste of sterilised water, it is a good idea to add some powdered fruit juice. You MUST bring Chlorine Dioxide with you on this trek. For environmental reasons, we do not encourage the purchase of bottled mineral water nor the boiling of water due to fuel and power shortages.
Plastic Bags
If you pack bits and pieces in plastic bags inside your bag they will stay dry in case of rain and be easier for you to sort through in the teahouses. Remember, the less you have to unpack in the evening, the less you have to repack each morning! A bin liner to pack inside your daysac is also a good idea.
Torch/Batteries/Bulb
A small torch could be useful for going to the loo in the night, etc. Petzl head torches are particularly useful. Remember that in most developing countries only a limited selection of batteries is available so bring spare batteries and bulb. The most common are pen cells (or AA size) and SP/HP2 (D size).
Toiletries
Try to keep heavy cosmetics etc to a minimum. Essentials are toothbrush/paste, bio-degradable soap, small towel, small nail brush and toilet rolls! ‘Wet Wipes’ are great for a quick clean up at the teahouse, so bring a pack of those. A ‘J’ cloth is a useful alternative for a ‘flannel’.
Sunglasses/Snow Goggles
A good pair of sunglasses are essential for protection against UV rays and glare at high altitudes.
Sun Hat, High Factor Sun Cream/Block & Lip Salve
Choose a high factor suncream (Factor 15 or more) to protect your skin against the sun at high altitudes. A combination sunblock/ lipsalve is ideal for facial protection.
Personal First Aid Kit
Each trek carries an extensive first aid kit but no prescription medicines. You should have your own supply of plasters, aspirin, diarrhoea tablets and also a comprehensive blister kit as well as any other medicines you and your doctor feels advisable. (Please do not give medicines to local people without consulting the trek leader.) See the list in our General Information Booklet. For an exclusively designed Explore Medical Kit, visit www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore
Trekking poles Trekking poles with rubber points are recommended.
Gaiters
Whistle
To attract attention in an emergency.
Boot Cleaning Kit
Spare Laces
Antibacterial handwash
Back to topFor an exclusively designed Explore Medical Kit, visit www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore
Back to topThen we suggest you contact Nomad Travel, our equipment partner, who specialise in kitting people out for adventurous travel. You receive a special 10% discount in-store or online. Visit one of their stores, phone 0845 260 0044, or visit their website www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore for further information.
Back to topNote Regarding Lukla Flights:
Lukla is a tiny airstrip clinging to the side of a valley at about 2743m. Adverse weather and other factors can cause delays which can on rare occasions run into days rather than hours. Though we have built spare time into the itinerary to allow for ‘average’ problems it is possible that should severe delays occur then sections of the itinerary will need to be rearranged, and in extreme cases onward travel plans could be affected. Should delays occur in Lukla we will continue to provide accomodation and food for you until we get going.
Back to topFor comprehensive information regarding voltages and plug types in use in the countries visited, follow the relevant link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
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