Everest Base Camp Trek (Non Indian Nationals)
The Himalaya are a complex skein of ranges and probably, the mightiest geographical feature on the surface of the earth. With more than a hundred peaks 7000m above sea level and about twenty peaks reaching almost 8000m are higher than the highest mountains in the rest of the world. The Himalayan mass which is about 3200 km long and 480m wide has successive ranges are steeped up and the highest peaks tend to be the furthest and appear to be dwarfed by smaller peaks. In the midst of all these mountains lies the mighty Everest.
Nepal is known as the “Land of the Himalaya” the world over. There are 1,310 peaks above 6000 meters of which 238 are already opened for climbing. Likewise, out of fourteen 8000 meters peaks eight of them, including the highest in the world, Mount Everest lies in Nepal. The other seven are namely Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Annapurna. This trek to Everest Base Camp is probably the only trail in the world where so many mighty and magnificent Himalayas can been seen at such close proximity.
Mount Everest is also known by the Tibetan name Chomolangma (goddess mother of the snows), and by the Nepali name Sagarmatha (Mother of the Universe).
When Mallory was questioned why he wanted to climb Everest he replied :- “Because it is there”; but it took more than 3 decades and in this period more than 20 expeditions tried but failed to summit the mighty and magnificent Mt. Everest. Finally on May 28th 1953 – Mt. Everest was first conquered by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay and till 2003 1300 climbers has reached the ‘Top of the World’. Today, after more than 5 decades, the trail to the mighty and magnificent mountain remains the same. Passing through Sherpa villages we do see a lot of changes with cyber-cafes and pubs with pool tables along the way. However, one thing that has remained constant over the generations is the absolutely spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges including the Big Three– Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse and Mt. Lhotse.
The Everest Base Camp Trek takes one to the foothills of the mightiest of the mountains in the world. En-route, traverse through rhododendron and pine forests, rivers, Sherpa villages and Buddhist Monasteries from temperate to snow line regions. The Himalayas are best seen on this trek as one traces the main route through the Khumbu region from the Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar. Trekkers get a close view of the world’s greatest mountains, Everest, Lhotse 8516 meters, Nuptse, Thamserku 6623 meters, Tawache and others.
Today, after more than 5 decades, the trail to the mighty and magnificent mountain remains the same. Passing through Sherpa villages we do see a lot of changes with cyber-cafes and pubs with pool tables along the way. However, one thing that has remained constant over the generations is the absolutely spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges including the Big Three-Mt. Everest 8848 meters, Mt. Lhotse 8516 meters and Mt Nuptse.
Note: Separate cost will be provided on request based on choice of category of hotels and other necessary programs if required. Suggested altogether
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Vacation Style Holiday Type
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Activity Level Strenuous
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Min 2 Pax
TRIP FACTS
Best Period: Feb, Mar, April, May – Oct, Nov, Dec
Trek Period: 11 Nights / 12 Days
Flights: 2 Ways. (Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu)
Trek Type: Moderate to Strenuous
Highest Altitude: 5545 meters
Warning: Altitude Sickness.
Trek Start Point: Lukla
Trek End Point: Lukla
Accommodations: Lodges on trek
Trek Cost: (*Details of cost included /excludes given at the bottom of the itinerary.
(Please note all times mentioned are estimated and not actual hours and may vary as per individual, physical, weather & Group conditions)
FEATURES
National Park: Sagarmatha National Park (1148 sq. kms)
Mountains: Everest, Lhotse, Tamserku, Amadablam, Nuptse, Tawatse, Kantega, Pumo-ri, etc.
Rivers: Bhote Koshi, Dudh Koshi and Imjatse Khola.
Villages: Lukla, Namche, Thyangboche, Pheriche, Lobuche, etc
Tribes: Mostly Sherpa’s, Rai’s, Tamang’s & Tibetans
Forests: Of Rhododendron and Pine.
Landscapes: Varying from temperate valleys to snow clad mountains.
- Transfer from Hotel / Domestic Airport / Hotel in a private deluxe a/c vehicle accompanied by the representative / guide from Sacred Summits (P) Ltd.
- Airfare for the sector Kathmandu / Lukla / Kathmandu @ USD 358.00 per person for both ways inclusive of all the airport taxes. (Subjected to change without prior notice)
- Airfare for the sector Kathmandu / Lukla / Kathmandu for the trek guide inclusive of his airport tax which is a special Nepali fare. (Subjected to change without prior notice)
- Sagarmatha National Park entrance fees of USD $ 30.00 per person. (Subjected to change without prior notice)
- Trekker Information Management System Card (TIMS) Card of USD $ 10.00 per person. (Subjected to change
- 11 Nights / 12 Days trek in the Everest / Khumbu region inclusive of accommodations at standard Lodges / Guest houses (Rooms with attached baths will be provided only at Phakding, Namche, Thyangboche, Dingboche, Pheriche, Lukla) and all meals (breakfast + Lunch + Dinner) prepared by the cook at the Tea Houses / Lodges from the menu upon discussion with the group’s preference and the things that are available.
- Services of an experienced (knowledgeable and trained in High altitude and first aid) Trek Sirdar /Escort/Guide.
- Locally hired Porters who will assist the guest to carry their luggage.
- All expenses for the guide and support staff including their daily allowances which includes their meals and accommodations as well.
- Contribution to Guide and Porter Insurance
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Government taxes and tolls and entrance fees where applicable.
- International Airfares.
- Nepal Visa fees (If applicable).
- Hotel Accommodations in Kathmandu & other necessary arrangements in Kathmandu except the pre and post trek airport transfers for the trek.
- Personal Insurance
- Meals (Lunch and Dinner) while the guest stay at hotels in Kathmandu (except a welcome dinner on the day of arrival)
- Items of a personal nature such as bar bills telephone calls, laundry, extra mileage and any extra costs incurred due to natural calamities, flight delays etc.
- Personal medication
- Insurance for or against accidents, loss of life, theft etc.
- Personal insurance, evacuation and medical expenses.
- Costs incurred due to cancellation of flights, altitude sickness or unforeseen circumstances (riots, natural calamities etc) and situations beyond the control of Sacred Summits (P) Ltd.
- Tips for the trek staff
- Any item not mentioned in the above ‘cost includes’.
- Day 1 Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2880m) and trek to Phakding (2652m)
- Day 2 Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
- Day 3 Rest and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
- Day 4 Trek from Namche to Thyangboche (3860 M) & continue to Devouche for overnight
- Day 5 Trek from Devouche to Dingboche (4410 M)
- Day 6 Rest and acclimatization at Dingboche (4410 M)
- Day 7 Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4931 m)
- Day 8 Trek from Lobuche to Ghorakshep (5180m) / Everest Base Camp (5360m) and Back
- Day 9 Excursion to - Kalapathar (5545 m) & back to Pheriche (4280 M)
- Day 10 Trek from Pheriche to Namche (3440m)
- Day 12 Fly Lukla to Kathmandu (1340 M)
AFTER ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU
- TREK BRIEFING:
On your arrival in Kathmandu, we will arrange to meet for a pre-trek briefing. Full information on all aspects of your trek, questions and doubts will be discussed. On trek your Sherpa leader (sirdar) will give you more details about the route, villages, people and other information regarding the trek.
- PACKING:
Please bear in mind the domestic airline baggage weight restrictions when packing. In this matter we request you to try and limit your baggage to around 15 kgs. (about 35 lbs.). You may leave behind part of your luggage in your hotel or our locker room before the trek, in Kathmandu. All baggage are to be clearly marked and locked. Kindly refrain from carrying or wearing valuables on the trek. You may leave them behind at the safety deposit box at your hotel or with us.
- HOW TO PACK:
Your clothes and equipment should fall into the following 4 categories:
- What you are going to leave behind in Kathmandu.
- What you are going to wear on the trail.
- What you are going to carry in your day pack.
- What you would like the porters to carry for you.
Excess clothes and luggage can be stored in your hotel’s storeroom, and valuables in the safety deposit box. Please label your luggage and make sure to take a receipt from the front desk of your hotel for all the things you would like to leave behind while you are away.
ON TREK
- FOOD AND DRINKS:
On the trek the food will consist of the food available at the lodges. Menu will be available at the lodges and the guest will have a choice of the food they like. The water provided is pressure boiled. Water bottles may be filled at night so that you have cool water to drink the following day. Mineral water in bottles can be bought on many trek routes at an additional cost.
- YOUR STAFF ON THE TRIP:
Will consist of one English speaking Sirdar or Escort who will be wholly responsible for the execution of the trip once it hits the trail. Sherpa(s) and reliable porter(s) will assist him and the numbers vary according to the size of the group.
- WE WILL PROVIDE:
For persons who purchase the whole vacation package from us, we will also provide pick-up and drop at Kathmandu Airport, domestic surface / air transport, welcome drink and hotel in Kathmandu with American breakfast. The price of the trip does not include the hire of sleeping bags and down parkas, personal expenses like laundry and bar bills, tips and gratuities (Tips to staff).
- A TYPICAL DAY:
A normal day on trek would start at about 6:00 am with a wake up call and a cup of steaming tea or coffee served in your room, followed by a bowl of hot water for washing – also delivered outside your room. Breakfast will have to be ordered before one goes to bed and the breakfast will be served at the dining room (common) and we advise guests to pack their bags and leave it outside their room so that the Sherpa boys can load them on the porters baskets.
The morning part of the trip would begin after breakfast and last about three to four hours when a stop for lunch would be made. The afternoon part of the trip will be another two to three hours to camp Relax through the evening until dinner time. After dinner you have the choice of sharing yarns with your colleagues or fellow trekkers.
- SANITATION AND PERSONAL HYGIENE:
A latrine, which is usually outside the lodge, is the most common type of toilet all through out the trek. The toilets are very basic and no flush or running water is available in the toilets. The streams and rivers, and at times hot springs along the trail helps. However, there are a few tea – house / lodges that currently have attached bathrooms. Arrangements will be made to include tea – houses with attached baths where possible / available.
- DAILY WEAR:
Your Sherpa or guide/escort can help you plan your daily wear before each day’s walk. Please carry an extra shirt or a T-shirt and a light jacket in your backpack. The mountain air is cold, so you can keep dry and warm after sweats and chills.
- WHAT TO CARRY DURING THE TREK:
Your daypack, preferably waterproof should be light, small and comfortable. All small personal items like toilet paper, water bottle, medicines, extra shirt, light warm wears, rain gear, gloves etc., that may be needed for the days trek should be packed. Your duffel will be carried by porters who may not be with you at all times.
- GENERAL MATTERS:
Your personal belongings will be looked after by our staff so please help them by not leaving them unattended in villages and other public places. The common dinning room has a fire place which is usually lit at round 5:00 pm.
We do not want to add to the large scale deforestation problem in the country. You will find the Nepalese people friendly, charming, inquisitive and quite ignorant about the west. We request you to maintain and follow the local customs.
Handouts by trekkers has led to increase begging especially among village children, affecting their independent-spirited nature. As dental hygiene is a big problem no chocolate and sweets for the children, please. The Sherpa or leader/Escort can advise you if you are keen to help locally.
- MONEY ON TREK:
You may want to buy drinks at wayside shops and souvenirs from the natives. Small change should be carried. As customary, we can help discuss in detail in the pre-trek briefing.
WHAT TO WEAR:
Light clothing are only for short treks up to seven days at altitudes up to 6000ft (1830m) during fall (autumn) from September to November and in spring between March to May. The other months at all altitudes will be cold and at most times the temperatures will be below zero.
Footwear:
You will need hiking boots with ankle support, sneakers for flat trails and flip-flops or chappals for use around the camp / guest house.
Clothes:
Shirts, T-shirts (4), blouse, etc., for day wear and a woolen shirt for evenings.
MEN: Shorts, cotton trousers, jeans, sweat-pant (recommended) etc.
LADIES: Shorts (not too short), long skirts are acceptable in well trekked areas,
jeans or trousers if preferred. Sweat pants are recommended.
Undergarments & Socks:
Thermal underwear and inner trouser for the above 7,000 ft. treks. Thick trek socks.
Warm Clothes:
A light sweater, a windcheater or light lined/padded jacket and down jacket or parka for above 7000 ft. treks. Woolen thick cap and warm gloves.
Sun / Rain:
Rain gear or umbrella and a sun hat is essential. Global warming has led to freak weather conditions and it has become more and more difficult to predict weather conditions.
Note: Umbrellas are cheap and easily available in Kathmandu.
HOW TO PACK
In The Day Pack: In The Duffel Bag:
Sun glasses Towels
Moisturizing/Sun screen lotion Flash light
Prescribed medicines Spare batteries
Camera and spare film Toiletries
Binoculars-optional Washing soap
Reading Reference book/Note book Spare clothes all wrapped in plastic bags
Pencil/Pen
Water bottles
Trek permits
Toilet paper
Umbrella/rain gear
Sweater
Additional Items:
For most treks from mid-November till mid-February and for those above 10,000 ft./3000m., in Spring and Autumn, anti-dazzle glasses or goggles with side attachments are recommended and High altitude food supplements (favorite snacks) if necessary.
NOTE:
Although Sacred Summits (P) Ltd. provides sleeping bags on request for a nominal fee, it is best to bring your own if you wish. You may have your sleeping bags checked during the pre-trek briefing to make sure that it is the right one for the trek you will be going on.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
In the event of an accident or serious ailment on a trek, helicopter evacuation can be arranged. The helicopter fare with 10% service charge and the hospital/medical charge will have to be cleared before departing from Kathmandu. A risk, release and guarantee form has to be signed before leaving on a trek with us. It is advisable to leave behind approximately US$ 1000.00 for an emergency back up measure.
INSURANCE:
We strongly recommend you to take a comprehensive holiday insurance in your own country covering adventures involving some elements of risk. However there is now, a few insurance companies providing insurance to foreigners travelers visiting Nepal.
BOOKS:
Trekking in the Nepal Himalayas by Stan Armington published by the Lonely Planets books provides you a comprehensive information on all matters regarding trekking in Nepal
The Trekking Peaks of Nepal by Bill O’Connor published by Crow Wood press in U.K. provides you with information on all matters regarding climbing peaks in Nepal.
Trekking in Nepal by Toru Nakano published by Allied Publishers gives you some insight into some important trekking areas in Nepal. A map of Nepal is enclosed in the book.