Call Us for Inquiry :
+977 98510 23742 (Jitendra)
Call Us for Inquiry :
+977 98510 23742 (Jitendra)
23 days 3 Passes EBC Island Peak Trek is an important trek to Gokyo, EBC, Cho La, Renjo La Pass with Island Peak climbing. It is a very good trip for adventure trekkers and climbers. A good physical fitness level and hiking experience is helpful to enjoy the trip. Everest Base Camp and Island Peak is a popular trekking and climbing destination in the world. You will get an outstanding trekking and climbing experience from this trip. It is a good trip to do both trekking and climbing in the Himalayas alps. Please email us at missionecotreknepal@gmail.com and call or leave message on WhatsApp at +977 9851023742 for 3 passes EBC Island Peak Trek departure in 2024, 2025.
Name: Three Passes Trek/EBC/Island Peak
Trek Duration: 23 days
Trek Difficulty: Challenging
Trek Season: Sep/Oct/Nov/Dec/Mar/April/May
Trek Altitude: 2800m-5500 m
Trek Cost: USD 1940-USD 3500
Group Size: 1 - 12 people.
Trek Package: Private/Group Trek
Mode of Transfer: Flight/Car
Start/End of Trek: Kathmandu/Kathmandu
23 days Everest Base Camp and Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing is a wilderness challenging trek in Nepal.The three passes trek-Renjo La, Cho La, Kongma La with Gokyo lake trek will take you to a series of beautiful turquoise Gokyo lakes and Gokyo RI peak climbing.The Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak climbing will get an ultimate trekking and climbing experience in Nepal. We also cross a famous Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m) and Kongma La (5,535 m) passes and to Everest base camp before climbing Island Peak (6,189 m). In 23 days journeys, we also ascend Gokyo Ri (5357 m) Peak and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) which provides magnificent up close view of the world’s highest mountains including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and more.
This adventure trek incorporates proper acclimatization to its itinerary. This is an ideal trip for adventure seekers in a quest for a challenging trekking and climbing in Everest. Some of the highlights of Everest base camp with Island peak climbing via three passes is to summit Island peak. Hence, you can enjoy close-up views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and other peaks from Kala Patthar and observe rich culture and traditions of the renowned Sherpas.
Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb Difficulty
The difficulty of Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb is moderate level. Participants should be strong and in good physical condition. You need to walk for 5-6 hours daily on an uneven, rocky and frequently steep terrain. No technical climbing and other special abilities are required. This trek route includes many sections of stone stairs. You will spend considerable time at altitudes between 3500 m and 5200 m which makes hiking more strenuous. A physical training should be undertaken at least 3 months in advance to prepare before this trek.
Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb
There will be tidy, clean, modern tea house lodges accommodation-the best that are available in each village. This trip package is based on shared rooms usually twin-share and sometimes triple shares. Hot showers are available in all tea house lodges for paying an additional cost.
Meals on Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb
You will get three times meals-breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trips. Also the snacks as well as ample hot and cold drinks can buy by paying extra cost. Please expect local food such as dal Bhat as well as Western-style dishes such as pizza, yak steak, chowmin, Momo and other dishes. Many of the lodges have power available with typical Asian plugs -two nail like horizontal prongs and offer to recharge for a fee.
Best Time for Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb
The best time of year, trekking to Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb are Spring from February, March, April and May and also Autumn from September, October, November and December. It is possible to make this trip in February and early September but it is cold and rain at this time of the year.Summer and rainy season is not really a good time for this trek.
WiFi and Internet Access
Hotels in Kathmandu generally have excellent WiFi connections. Most hotels offer free WiFi in public areas. While trekking WiFi may be available in tea houses and lodges for a small cost.The higher you go the use of WiFi and internet will be extra cost and likely the slower the speed. Your tour leader will be able to offer some advice on communications in remote areas of the country. Please note that most tea houses do not have electrical outlets in rooms to charge devices but are shared in the main dining area with an additional cost. Past travelers have found portable solar chargers to be very useful.
Electricity on Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb
Almost all lodges have electricity but it is not wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in the dining room (charged at approx. Rs 150-RS 350 per hour per device). Many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough electricity for charging. Many lodges have Wi-Fi these days – in some areas it works well but in others, it is slow and temperamental.
Everest Three Passe, EBC and Island Peak Climb Seasons and Weathers
The main trekking season in Nepal is from September to mid-June when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600 m and progressively lower the higher we go. Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.
Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 liters per person per day. We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal.The tea houses sell boiled water for approx. Rs 150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle. Alternatively, all tea houses will provide cold water free of charge, if requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you bring a reusable bottle with you and use an effective form of water treatment.Handheld UV filters such as a ‘Ste Ripen’ are very effective, can treat 1 liter of water in a couple of minutes and the water is ready immediately – look for lightweight lithium battery models and remember that you will need to bring a wide-mouthed bottle (e.g. Nalgene) for use with these devices.
Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu(1350m/4,429 ft)
On arrival at the Airport in Kathmandu and formal completion of your custom and immigration processes, one of our representatives will be there to greet you at the arrival exit and escort you to your hotel. You may relax in your hotel room for the rest of the time or you may stroll around the streets of Thamel. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 02: In Kathmandu
After breakfast in our hotel, we may wander around nearby areas and do some shopping for our adventurous trip the following day. In the aft.ernoon, we will have a pre-trip discussion and meet our trekking guide as well as other participants. You will also be briefed on the nature of expedition, equipment and team composition. Later, we will go back to our hotel and have a peaceful sleep. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla then trek to Phakding(2,800m/9,187 ft: 40 min Hiking: 3-4 hrs)
After breakfast, we will be taken to the domestic terminal of TIA for an early morning flight to Lukla. After flying above the breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. This is one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating in a landing on a hillside surrounded by high mountains. Upon our arrival at Lukla, we meet remaining members of our climbing team. We begin our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. To assist in acclimatization, we only have a short hike today. However, if interested in additional activities, we can take a side trip to a nearby monastery. Overnight in Phakding.
Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3438 m/11,280 ft, Hiking: 5-6 hrs)
After breakfast, we walk through beautiful pine forests and then along Dudh Koshi River ending our nature-filled journey at Namche Bazaar. After walking for almost over an hour, we come across the glistening Mt. Thamserku (6,608 m) on our right and also experience the serenity of pine, fir and juniper forests throughout our journey. If the weather is clear, we may even catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. We continue walking until we reach the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Mt. Everest and main trading centre of this region. On this day we cross five suspension bridges, the last one also known as the Hillary Bridge due to it being the highest. It is an uphill walk from Hillary Bridge to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 05: Namche Bazaar : Acclimatization Day
This is the day set aside for acclimatization. Health experts recommend that we stay active and move around even during the rest day instead of being idle. There are a few options set aside for this day. We can either stroll around Namche’s quaint villages or come in contact with the Sherpa people and their rich culture, or we can hike up to the Everest View Hotel and enjoy an up-close view of the mighty Everest. While in the Namche village or upon returning from the hike to the Everest View Hotel, trekkers may also visit the local museum containing exhibits displaying the area’s native flora and fauna as well as the history of the Mount Everest region.
For trekkers who want to hike for a little longer, a hike to Khumjung village (5-6 hours) may also be an option. While in the village we can visit the Edmund Hillary School and Khumjung Monastery (a monastery famous for housing the head of the Yeti!). Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Thame(3,736m/12,258ft, Hiking: 5-6 hrs)
Our trail heads west along the valley of the Bhote Koshi River. The views of the Himalayas including Kongde Ri (6187 m), Khumbi Yul La (5765 m), Kusum Kanguru (6,373 m) are fantastic. The first village we pass through is Phorte where a nursery was established by Sir Edmund Hillary’s Himalayan Trust. We continue along the balcony path. After descending to the river, we cross a bridge before making a steep climb to Thame, situated at an important juncture along the old primary trade route to and from Tibet via the Nangpa La (pass). Overnight in Thame.
Day 07: Thame to Lungde(4,368m/14,331ft, Hiking: 3-4 hrs)
After breakfast we visit Thame Gompa which is a 350-year-old monastery beautifully located in the cliffs above Thame. After spending some time here we continue our trek to Lumde. The trail climbs gently over the moraine and continues our ascent to Lumde. We follow the route used for centuries by the Himalayan traders who ferried salt and grains across the Nangpa-La pass into Tibet. Overnight in Lumde.
Day 08: Lungde: acclimatization day
This is the second day set aside for us to acclimatize to the high altitude thus preventing any symptoms of AMS. Taking the time to acclimatize today should help us with the next day’s climb over the Renjo La pass. We can spend this day resting and hiking. There are many spots in the area that guarantee amazing views of the surrounding and of course the Himalayan vista. Overnight in Lumde.
Day 09: Lungde to Gokyo via Renjo La Pass(4,800m/15,749ft, Hiking: 7-8 hrs)
Today we cross the first of the three passes, Renjo-La. It is a tough climb but the view from the top makes the climb worthwhile. As we trek further we see prayer flags that signal the pass. The view from the top of the pass is spectacular. We see Gokyo Lakes, Ngozummpa Glacier, Everest, Lhotse and other Himalayas. From here we descend to Gokyo. Overnight in Gokyo.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Gokyo Valley: Hike to Gokyo Ri
If the weather is good, we climb Gokyo Ri today instead of the next day and enjoy amazing mountain vistas from the best viewpoint of the Everest Region. Climbing Gokyo Ri is obviously strenuous as it is steep and takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach the top. But the sight of the Gokyo village located at the edge of the third lake overlooked by Cholatse and the broad Ngagzuma Glacier is spectacular. At Gokyo Ri we are surrounded by more than 10 mighty Himalayas. The sight of sunrays kissing Everest which towers over all the surrounding peaks is astounding. However, if the weather is not fit for climbing, we visit the fourth and fifth Gokyo lakes. We can also climb on a hill, also called Scoundrel’s Viewpoint, at the edge of the lakes to get astounding views of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. Overnight in Gokyo.
Day 11: Gokyo to Thaknak(4,600m/15,093 ft, Hiking: 5-6 hrs)
If the weather was not good for climbing Gokyo Ri the previous day, we then do so today. After breakfast, we climb out of the Gokyo village to a ridge then trek through the Ngazumpa Glacier to the mountain on the other side. Next, traverse along the edge of that mountain and then meander into Thaknak. It will be a short hike today with an afternoon of rest which will prepare us for long hiking days and elevation gain to come. Overnight in Thaknak.
Day 12: Thaknak to Cho La pass to Lobuche(4,940 m/16,208 ft, Hiking:8-10 hrs)
Today is going to be one of the toughest days of the trip. The Cho La pass is not itself difficult, but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. We need to be careful as the trail is vertical and the rocks glazed by ice may cause trouble by making the trail slippery. The trail from Phedi climbs through a ravine and a rocky trail. While trekking through the side of a frozen lake, we reach at the top of the pass which is decorated with prayer flags. The pyramidal Ama Dablam presides over a range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soars to the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. We need to pass through some crevasses before we reach Dzongla, another beautiful place with a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche Peak and the Pheriche Village far below. We climb down from Dzongla and walk through a grassy trail while enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak. The trail curves through the wide river bed before reaching Lobuche. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep , visit Everest Base Camp(5,170m/16,963ft, Hiking:6-7 hrs)
We take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, we come across the Indian army mountaineers’ memorials. The path from here can be misleading; hence, it is important that we diligently follow our lead Sherpa. The walk is strenuous due to thin air in the high altitude. We pass through rocky dunes, moraine and streams before reaching the Everest Base Camp. Upon reaching the Everest Base Camp, we see tents of mountaineers that stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. We then get back to Gorak Shep for a good night’s rest. Overnight in Gorak Shep.
Day 14: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and back to Lobuche(4,940m/16,208ft, Hiking:7-8 hrs)
We prepare for an early morning departure, amid pre-dawn darkness and cold temperatures (-10 to -14 C). Plus, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself. But it is upon reaching Kala Patthar that we get to see 360 degree up-close and formidable views of Mt. Everest. We take pictures, enjoy the magnificent mountain panorama, and then return back to Lobuche for a good night’s rest. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 15: Lobuche to Kongma La to Chhukung(4,730m/15,519ft, Hiking:6-7 hrs)
After breakfast, we trek via Khumbu Glacier to Kongma La Base Camp (5,000 m/16,404 ft). The ascent to Kongma La pass is the most difficult part of our trek today. In the Kongma La, we see cairns wrapped in prayer flags to mark the pass. Then we descend gradually to Imja Khola valley, followed by another descent to Chhukung, a small summer settlement. After reaching Chhukung we will also check our equipment in order to get ready for our ultimate climb. Overnight in Chhukung. (B,L,D). Note: If we do not want to undertake the Kongma La pass, we can follow another route via Dingboche to Chhukung instead.
Day 16: Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp, pre-climb training(5,200m/17,061ft, Hiking:3-4 hrs)
The trek to Island Peak Base Camp is on a fairly steep trail. First, we climb south then turn east to the main line of the valley. We then walk on a winding path below the southern flank of the moraine from the Lhotse Glacier. Next, we continue walking on a pleasant trail along a stream side. The route to the Amphu Lapcha lies to the southeast. A crisscross route through the Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines leads to a wide valley flanking the SW side of Island Peak. Overnight at Island Peak Base Camp.
Pre-climb training: Our guides will provide training on peak climbing techniques and the proper ways of using climbing gears such as the ice axe, climbing boots and crampons, harness, ascended, etc. The training will also include using ropes to go up and down. Although it is not mandatory to have prior training for Island Peak climbing, we strongly believe that some training experience will boost your confidence and climbing skills to increase the chances of scaling the summit as well as to fully enjoy the experience. Usually we will be climbing on rock surface for up to around 5770 m. After that, we climb on ice and use ropes when necessary. However, the use of the rope and the length depends upon the season and the crevasses.
Day 17: Island Peak Base Camp to Summit, and back to base camp(6,189 m/20,306 ft, Hiking:10-12 hrs)
We wake up early today at around 12 to 1 am and have our breakfast before beginning our climb. It is important we reach the summit before noon because in the afternoon the strong winds in the highlands might become a barrier for a successful summit. The trail moves up beyond the base camp for several hundred meters before striking off the steep hillside. Initially sandy, the path soon turns to grass before becoming boulder strewn. As we climb up the hill, we will see that the slope narrows and the trail enters a steep rock channel. We climb the rock gully. This is not difficult, but there are several short rock steps to climb before we 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. The guides will fix a rope when required. A steep snow slope leads us onto the summit ridge. Both fixed rope and man rope will be used during the climb for safety. We use fixed rope after successfully climbing on rock. The length of the rope will usually be 350 m. However, the length depends on the time of the season and the crevasses.There are two newly formed crevasses which are approximately 3 and 4 meters long. We will be using ladders to cross them. After enjoying the summit views and taking pictures, we descend all the way to Island Peak Base Camp where some of our crew are waiting for us. We celebrate on our successful Island Peak climb.
Day 18: Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche(3,985m/13,075 ft, Hiking:5-6 hrs)
Today’s walk will be a much easier as we descend to the lower altitudes. Following the same route back through the wide valley of Khumbu Khola, we pass through the beautiful Sherpa villages Orsho and Shomare. We can also take a different trail to visit the Gompa in Upper Pangboche, which is believed to be the oldest in the Khumbu region or take the regular trail to reach Pangboche. Pangboche is a scenic village surrounded by Everest to its north, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtaiga to the east, the Kongde range to the south and the Imja Tse river flowing through the wide fertile valley.
Day 19: Pangboche to Namche Bazaar(3,438m/11,280 ft, Hiking:4-5 hrs)
From Pangboche we retrace our steps down to the Imja Khola and up through the forest to Tengboche. If interested, we can also visit nuns at the Tengboche monastery. After lunch at Tengboche, we continue through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. After crossing the bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, our trail follows the Dudh Koshi gorge descending rapidly through the pine forests before reaching Sansa. We keep a lookout for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc., while passing through the forest. After passing a chorten, we reach the army camp at Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 20: Namche Bazaar to Lukla(2,800m/9,187 ft, Hiking:6-7 hrs)
We descend on a steep trail so it is important that we walk cautiously as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the trail becomes more level. After reaching Lukla, we stretch those sore legs and recall the experiences of the last couple of weeks. Overnight in Lukla.
Day 21: Fly to Kathmandu(1,350m/4,429 ft, Hiking: 40 min)
We catch an early morning flight to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. After reaching Kathmandu, we can take a rest. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 22: Free day in Kathmandu
Breakfast and free day on your own in Kathmandu. It is also possible to do Kathmandu sightseeing tour. There will be a farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the climbers’ successful summit of the Island peak
Day 23: Kathmandu Airport
Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. We will take you to the airport, approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek
We provide one porter for every two travelers. Your trekking gear will be carried by the porter. The maximum the porters carry is 10 Kg per passenger. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla only allows for a weight limit of 10 Kg for luggage, and 5 Kg for hand luggage. Some of your luggage can be left in Kathmandu but you will need to take all your trekking gear with you. Available for Rent: Sleeping Bag (NPR 200 - 300 NPR per day)
Cold Weather:
Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
Scarf
Warm gloves
Warm hat
Warm layers
Conservative Dress:
Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)
Documents:
Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
Passport (required) (With photocopies)
Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
Essentials:
Binoculars (optional)
Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
Cash, credit and debit cards
Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
Ear plug
First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, band aids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes,
antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra
prescription drugs you may be taking)
Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
Fleece top/sweater
Footwear
Hat
Locks for bags
Long pants/jeans
Money belt
Outlet adapter
Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
Reusable water bottle
Shirts/t-shirts
Sleepwear
Small travel towel
Sunglasses
Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
Watch and alarm clock
Waterproof backpack cover
Windproof rain jacket
Health and Safety:
Face masks (required)
Hand sanitizer (required)
Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Rubber gloves
High Altitude Trekking:-
Down jacket (Recommended for winter season)
Hiking boots (Worn frequently prior to departure)
Pack liners to waterproof bags
Reusable water bottler - minimum 1 litre (Aluminium or Nalgene polypropylene are best)
Sandals (For wearing around camp in the evenings)
Sleeping bag and liner, 4 season
Spare boot laces
Thermal base layer
Waterproof gloves
Whistle
Windproof rain gear
Wool socks
Laundry- Laundry facilities are offered by some of tea house and hotel for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Passports-As a general rule, your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Please ensure the passport details you provide are accurate. Any errors provided may result in extra fees for making corrections in bookings. We recommend taking copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you as well as leave copies at home with family or friends.
Nepal Visas-All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad or on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan airport. If getting the visa at the airport be prepared for long queues. You will also need to provide one passport photo and the following fees in US dollars cash only: Multi entry visa valid for 15 days - US $30: Multi Entry Visa for 30 days - US $50 and multiple entry visa valid for 90 days - US $125. All travellers are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 to get visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport.
Money Matters-Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.As currency exchange rates in Nepal fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. As of June 2022 the exchange rate for NEPAL was 1 USD = 122 NPR (Nepalese Rupees). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard but these are limited to Kathmandu, Pokhara and Namche Bazaar. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 4%-6% transaction fee.
Departure Tax-All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
Tipping-Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1-$2 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service, for porters during the trekking portion of your trip, the recommended amount is 300-500 Rs (4-7 USD) per day; ask guide for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your guide and porter did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-30 USD per person, per week can be used.
Safety and Security-We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. Swimming, including is always at your own risk.
Drugs and Smoke-Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable for our travellers, also illegal in Nepal. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. We have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance-Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Local Dress-In Nepal the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites. While visiting monasteries, please make sure you wear long trousers and open your shoes and stay quiet before entering the monasteries.
Minimum Age-You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a our tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
International Flights-Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Personal Health-You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons your guide are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug.
Important notes
2. You will be trekking on hilly terrain, generally on well-defined paths, walking anywhere between 2 to 7 hours per day, on average about 5 hours a day. Altitude may exceed 5545 meters.
3. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. For this it needs extra cost.
4. In case of weather conditions leading to cancellations or delays in flights, this trip will operate on an alternate itinerary.
5. You must bring an emergency fund of USD 500 in cash with you on this trip, which you may need to use in case of delayed or cancelled flights.
6. We advise allowing a few extra days in Kathmandu at the end of your trip should your return flights from Lukla be delayed due to weather conditions.
7. The minimum age for this trip is 15 at time of travel.
9. You may be asked to provide 2 passport size photographs for your trekking permit.
Altitude Sickness-Travelers to altitudes higher than 2,50 m are at risk of altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). This can be life-threatening and affect anyone, even people who are very physically fit. There is a higher risk for those who have had altitude sickness before, who exercise or drink alcohol before adjusting to the altitude, or who have health problems that affect breathing. If your tour travels to high altitude, see your doctor for advice specific to you and your situation before you depart. It is important to be aware of the normal altitude symptoms that you may encounter BUT NOT worry about:
1.Periods of sleeplessness
2.Occasional loss of appetite
3.Vivid, wild dreams at around 2500-3800m in altitude
4.Unexpected momentary shortness of breath, day and night
5.Periodic breathing that wakes you occasionally
6.Blocked nose
7.Dry cough
8.Mild headache
If you are feeling nauseous, dizzy, or experience other symptoms, please be sure to let your guide know immediately so that we can monitor your condition. Please be aware that should your guide deem it unsafe for you to continue trekking at any time, they will arrange for you to descend to a lower altitude.
Medical Facilities and Treatment-Medical facilities in Nepal are very limited, particularly outside Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, treatment at international-standard clinics is expensive and up-front payment for services is generally required. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment, including evacuation by helicopter.
Alcohol and Caffeine-Alcohol and trekking don't mix. We highly recommend that you limit your alcohol consumption in Kathmandu prior to your trip. Celebrate your achievements after your trek. Both alcohol and caffeine increase dehydration. Limit your intake of both when hiking at high altitudes.
Monsoon-The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice.
Lukla Flights-Weather conditions in the Himalayas can change rapidly and we may be forced to change the trip itinerary accordingly. Travelers need to be prepared for all weather conditions.In the Himalayas weather can cancel or delay the scheduled flight(s) to/from Lukla airport. To be sure that you make your trek, or return from it, it may be necessary to make this flight by a chartered helicopter. Helicopters can operate in some weather that aircraft cannot. Should a helicopter be needed, it will be at the expense of the travellers, and not something covered by Mission Eco Trek. Please keep approximately USD 500 (one way) accessible in case this situation presents itself. Hopefully weather delays will not occur, or if they do it will be for a limited time. Should the delays stretch into days and neither helicopter nor flight are a viable option, a collective decision will be made by the group on how to proceed. This is especially true if the delays are prior to the trek, as the original trek may no longer be feasible. We are here to help with this process.
Emergency Fund-Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $700 (or equivalent) cash as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This includes the USD $500 cash emergency helicopter funds.
Drones in Nepal-Please note that drones and the flying of drones are prohibited in Nepal. If you violate these regulations the police may take you into custody.
Solo Travelers-Single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
