Kyajo Ri Peak Climb
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Trip Information
Trip Duration
17 Nights 18 Days
Difficulty Level
Hard
Destination
Nepal
Maximum Height
6186 m
Guiding Method
Trekking & Climbing
Best Season
Autumn & Spring
Highlights
- Enjoy an exhilarating mountain flight to Lukla and back.
- Exploration of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Cross exciting suspension bridges over raging glacial rivers.
- Spend a day extra at Namche Bazaar, the capital of the Sherpa people.
- Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests to glaciated high-altitude terrain.
- Summit the peak of Ri Peak flaunting at the elevation of 6,186m/20,296ft.
- Indulge in semi-technical peak climbing and gain the experience of rock climbing and steep alpine ice walking.
- Challenging yet non-technical summit climb, suitable for fit and experienced trekkers.
- The thrill of camping at Camp I and II amidst Kyajo glaciers at high altitudes.
- Witness stunning Himalayan vistas, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, from the Kyajo Ri summit.
- Experience the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the Sherpa community.
- Create lifelong memories in one of the world’s most iconic mountain wildernesss.
Kyajo Ri Peak (6,186m/20,296ft) is a lesser-known yet highly rewarding trekking peak in the Everest region of Nepal. The climb offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of mountaineering while enjoying stunning views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Kyajo Ri is the perfect adventure in the middle - not too easy or hard. If you're an experienced trekker who's ever wanted to try peak climbing in Nepal, Kyajo Ri is a significant first step. It'll indeed challenge you, but you won't need previous climbing experience to conquer it. For experienced climbers, Kyajo Ri is a fantastic warm-up before tackling the even more prominent mountains in the Himalayas.
The 18-day Kyajo Ri Peak climb typically starts with a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region. From there, you'll start your trek following the famous Everest Base Camp trail, passing through Sherpa villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar.
After acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, your route diverges towards Kyajo Ri Base Camp via Mende village. This is where your ascent of Kyajo Ri truly begins.
The expedition progresses towards the base camp, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. Once acclimatized, you'll set up higher camps (Camp I and II) to adjust to the altitude. These days are crucial for preparations and strategic planning for the summit push.
The final climb to the Kyajo Ri peak tests your skills and determination. You'll navigate rocky ridges, traverse glaciated terrain, and conquer steep snow and ice slopes with fixed ropes, ice axes, and crampons.
Reaching Kyajo Ri's summit is a moment you'll cherish forever. Savor the awe-inspiring panorama of snow-capped giants stretching as far as the eye can see. Snap some photos to remember this incredible view forever. But most importantly, take a moment to soak it all in. Let the beauty of this landscape leave a lasting impression on your soul, not just your camera roll.
Then, with a heart whole of accomplishment, begin your descent back to base camp. Retracing your steps, you'll eventually return to Lukla, marking the triumphant conclusion of your Kyajo Ri peak climbing adventure.
This Kyajo Ri peak climbing itinerary is designed for adventurous trekkers seeking a perfect gateway to peak climbing. Opened in 2002, this relatively new route provides a unique opportunity to explore a less-traveled side of the Everest region.
Kyajo Ri isn't just a climb; it's an immersive adventure. Trek through charming Sherpa villages, experience the authentic culture and witness the world's most iconic Himalayan giants like Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. With our experienced guide and customized itinerary, you'll conquer one of the least explored trekking peaks in the world's famous mountaineering region.
Altitude Graph
Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal, the land of the Himalayas! As you step off the plane, a warm greeting awaits from a representative of Nepal Ascent Treks. You'll drive to your hotel after completing airport formalities and collecting your luggage. Along the way, soak in the bustling sights and sounds of the city, offering a glimpse into its vibrant life.
Upon reaching the hotel, take a moment to refresh and acclimatize to the altitude, especially if you've traveled from lower elevations. Later in the evening, explore nearby attractions. With its lively streets and plethora of shops and cafes, Thamel is an ideal starting point for immersing you in the local scene.
Cap off your day with a delightful welcome dinner hosted by the Nepal Ascent team, where you'll get a chance to connect with fellow travelers and indulge in delicious Nepalese cuisine.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
3 Star Hotel
Meal
Dinner
Transportation
Private car
Fuel up for the day with breakfast, and then it’s off to explore the amazing Kathmandu Valley. You’ll visit significant landmarks, all listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
First on the list is Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple complex dedicated to Shiva. Observe religious rituals and witness the unique cremation process along the banks of the Bagmati River.
Second is Boudhanath Stupa, nicknamed the “Great Stupa,” this massive dome-shaped monument is one of the largest stupas in the world. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Tibetan Buddhist atmosphere.
Next is Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the “Monkey Temple.” This ancient complex sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Enjoy panoramic views and encounter playful monkeys while exploring the shrines.
Finally, you head to Kathmandu Durbar Square. Step back in time at this historic palace square and marvel at the intricate architecture of temples, courtyards, and statues showcasing Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.
After your exciting sightseeing tour, meet your guide for a briefing on the Kyajo Ri Peak's climbing details. They’ll walk you through the itinerary, highlight the critical aspects of the trek, and answer any questions you might have. He’ll also do a thorough gear and equipment check to ensure you’re well-prepared for the climb.
Before bed, take some time to pack your backpack for the trek. Make sure you have everything you need. If anything is missing, don’t worry! Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hub, is full of shops selling trekking gear. Just grab what you need and get a good night’s sleep before your adventure begins.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
3 Star Hotel
Meal
Breakfast
Transportation
Private car
Kick-off with an early breakfast and a rush of excitement as you prepare for your mountain flight. We’ll transfer you smoothly from your hotel to Kathmandu airport for your Lukla flight.
Lukla is the gateway town for Everest trekkers. Tenzing Hillary Airport sits uniquely on a high mountain plateau surrounded by dramatic hills. Prepare for a breathtaking landing on the airport famous for its short runway.
Upon arrival in Lukla, meet your trekking crew and set off on the trail towards Phakding village, a popular choice for the first-night stay on the Everest Base Camp route.
The trekking section between Lukla and Phakding offers a classic taste of trekking in Nepal. You'll trek through uphill and downhill sections on stone pathways and forested trails. Look out for the mani stones, significant cultural and religious landmarks.
The striking sight of Khumbila, a holy peak worshipped by Sherpas, will leave you speechless. Finally, after crossing a metal suspension bridge, you reach Phakding, a small Sherpa village in the lap of Dudh Koshi Valley.
Settle into tea houses and choose to relax after your trek or explore the village, where an ancient Buddhist monastery awaits.
Overnight stay in Phakding.
Accommodation
Teahouse
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Flight / Walking
Today’s hike takes you to the high mountains and the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar. The trail from Phakding and Namche is one of the most iconic sections of the Everest Base Camp trail.
After breakfast, you’ll leave Phakding, and the trek path follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges over its raging waters.
As you climb through pine and rhododendron forests, you’ll witness astonishing towering Himalayan peaks like Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru. Then, the trail leads you to the famed Sagarmatha National Park entry point at Monjo.
Continuing the trek, you arrive at the famous Hillary suspension bridge. After crossing this bridge, you start a steep uphill climb from Larja Dobhan. Continuing ascent, you’ll arrive at Namche Bazaar, the central hub of the Khumbu region located amid the scenic Everest region.
This vibrant Sherpa settlement is in a striking amphitheater setting with colorful markets, monasteries, and splendid mountain vistas. Settle into the teahouses and rest.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation
Teahouse
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
Today is all about acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, a crucial rest day for your body to adjust to the higher altitude before continuing the trek. Nestled in the bustling heart of the Khumbu region, Namche offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Sherpa culture, heavily influenced by their Tibetan neighbors. For magnificent panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, consider an optional hike up to the Everest View Hotel. Alternatively, wander through the lively markets of Namche and savor local delicacies.
Consider an optional hike to Khunde or Khumjung village to aid your acclimatization further. These charming villages host iconic landmarks like Khumjung Monastery and Khunde Hospital. While exploring these places, you get a chance to look deeper into the region's culture and history.
After a day of enriching experiences, return to teahouses in Namche Bazaar and rest.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation
Teahouse
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
Leaving the bustling Namche Bazaar, the trail ascends westward through the Bhote Koshi River Valley, a formal trade route to Tibet. As you gain elevation, soak in sweeping vistas of the soaring Kongde Peak.
The path winds through lush rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of colorful blooms in spring. You’ll also cross the suspension bridge over the Bhote Koshi, providing a dramatic viewpoint of the raging glacial torrent below.
Before reaching Thamo village, the Kyajo Ri Peak climbing route diverges right, leading you on a steep ascent of about an hour to the tiny hamlet of Mende.
This quaint settlement clings to the mountainside, surrounded by incredible vistas of snow-capped giants like Ama Dablam, Kangtega, and Thamserku. Mende offers an authentic experience of traditional mountain village life and impressive Himalayan vistas away from the bustle of bigger Sherpa towns.
Overnight stay in Mende.
Accommodation
Teahouse
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
Today’s trek takes you closer to the summit – Kyajo Ri Base Camp, the last stop before your ascent.
Departing Mende, the trail narrows into a faint yak herder’s track. The trek route to the base camp will allow you to venture deeper into the remote Himalayan wilderness.
The path traverses several high passes, granting spectacular sights of towering peaks like Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru, and Kongde. Next, you descend into the isolated and broad Kyajo Drangka Valley, where the majesty of Kyajo Ri comes into full view.
After a few hours of trekking uphill through this hidden alpine zone, you’ll arrive at a summer yak-grazing meadow. This place serves as the base camp for your Kyajo Ri summit push.
Here, your experienced Sherpa crew will set up camp and begin preparations for technical climbing days ahead. Take this opportunity to acclimatize further while soaking in the magnificent theater of lofty peaks surrounding you.
Overnight stay in Kyajo Ri Base Camp.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
Today is a rest day at Kyajo Ri Base Camp, strategically planned to aid your acclimatization for the upcoming summit push.
If you are conquering peaks above 6,000 meters, then it requires a specific approach– alternative climbing days with rest days. This strategy allows your body ample time to adjust to the thin air. You'll be less tired, making it much easier to reach the top.
You can take a short hike above base camp to aid your body's adjustment. This short walk will reward you with alluring panoramas of the surrounding peaks.
Your expert guide will take this rest day as an opportunity to equip you with valuable climbing knowledge and techniques. This session will provide essential skills like using fixed ropes, ice axes, harnesses, crampons, ascenders, and jumars.
Additionally, your guide will share vital safety tips and procedures to prepare you for potential climbing challenges.
After a packed day of learning and exploring, it's back to base camp for some rest. You can enjoy a hot meal the cooking crew prepares at the camp. Enjoy a well-deserved rest, recharge, and be ready to tackle the next stage of your Kyajo Ri expedition.
Overnight stay in Kyajo Ri Base Camp.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
After a full day acclimatizing at Kyajo Ri Base Camp, it’s time to continue your upward journey toward Camp I. Onwards, the trail becomes more rugged as you navigate over boulder fields and grassy ridges, steadily gaining elevation.
The next part is a tough climb– it’s steep and rocky, with loose stones that might shift under your feet. After a few grueling hours, you’ll finally reach a relatively flat area above 5,000 meters– an ideal spot to set up Camp I.
Your campsite offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding glacial landscapes. In the distance, the towering peak of Kyajo Ri dominated the skyline, while beautiful glacial lakes added additional beauty to the impressive high-altitude scenery.
Savor the panorama as you refuel at Camp I. This breathtaking panorama will greatly remind you why you are here to conquer Kyajo Ri’s summit.
Overnight stay in Camp I.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
Another crucial acclimatization day awaits at Camp I. This rest is vital to prepare your body for the upcoming ascent to Camp II of Kyajo Ri Peak.
Take this opportunity to relax and soak in the amusing mountain scenery surrounding Camp I. The fresh air and panoramic vistas will be a welcome respite.
To help your body adjust even better to the altitude, your guide may lead you on a short hike toward Camp II. This helps your body adjust to the higher altitude and familiarizes you with the climbing route for tomorrow’s push. Enjoy the close-up views of the majestic peaks towering around you.
For your safety and success on the climb, your guides will again meticulously check all your climbing gear. This ensures everything is in top condition before tackling the next leg of the expedition.
After a productive day of acclimatization and route familiarization, you’ll return to Camp I for a well-deserved rest. Enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the crew and get a good night’s sleep, ready to conquer the next challenge.
Overnight stay in Camp I.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
The morning crisp and cold air wakes you up at Camp I. After breakfast, you and your friends grab your backpacks and say goodbye to comfy Camp I.
The first part of the climb is tricky. You have to walk carefully over bumpy glaciers and rocks. The air gets thinner the higher you go, making you breathe harder. Crampons help you grip the icy slopes, which are really steep in some places! You hold onto the ropes to climb safely.
It gets tiring quickly, and every step feels like a struggle. But then you look around! The mountains are sharp and pointy, reaching towards the bright blue sky. Gigantic glaciers sparkle like diamonds in the distance. This fantastic view is like a shot of adrenaline! You can't help but push forward and climb higher.
Finally, after hours of climbing, you reach the top of a small hill. You're so relieved to see a cozy campsite waiting for you. It sits beside a beautiful blue lake, fed by melting ice. Even putting up your tent is hard work at 5,700 meters (18,700 feet)! But the amazing Sherpas quickly set everything up so you can relax.
As the sun rises, you rest, drink plenty of water, and feel proud of yourself for making it this far. You can't wait to reach the top tomorrow, but for now, you enjoy the mountains and your friends.
Overnight stay in Camp II.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
The big day is here! After a light breakfast to fuel your body at Camp II, you start your Kyajo Ri Peak climb before dawn. The initial ascent takes you through a rocky section filled with massive boulders, testing your route-finding skills from the very beginning.
As you climb higher, the terrain transforms into a vast glacier. This section brings a new set of challenges. You’ll need to carefully maneuver your way up the steep slopes, relying on your ice axe for balance and your crampons for secure foot on the snowy and icy terrain.
The imposing Southwest Ridge awaits, demanding a direct ascent on snow and ice, bringing you even closer to the summit pyramid. This exposed and precarious section demands your complete focus and mountaineering skills to navigate safely.
Finally, after conquering a short but challenging rocky step, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the narrow, snowy summit wedge of Kyajo Ri Peak at a breathtaking 6,186 meters. Gathering all your reserved energy, you push on, each step demanding more effort in the thin air.
Finally, you reach the summit! A stunning 360-degree panorama unfolds before you, showcasing the mighty Himalayan peaks. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and Baruntse stand out on this beautiful horizon, a perfect reward for your hard work.
After taking in these awe-inspiring sights, you descend back to Camp II. The joy of reaching the summit lifts your spirits, even as your body feels the exhaustion from the climb.
Overnight stay in Camp II.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
For your Kyajo Ri Peak climb, we have included a contingency day in case of unforeseen challenges. This extra day provides flexibility in your schedule. If everything proceeds smoothly, this day will be excluded from the itinerary.
However, in the event of adverse weather conditions or unexpected obstacles, the contingency day allows for adjustments to ensure a safe and successful summit attempt. Trust our experienced guides to make informed decisions and prioritize your safety throughout the climb.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
-
Today, you bid farewell to Camp II, relishing the close-up sight of towering peaks high above. After a hearty breakfast, begin retracing your footsteps back down the mountain. As you descend, the landscape transforms from challenging climb to welcoming descent. The path, once a test of endurance, unfolds with a newfound sense of accomplishment.
This time, however, the journey feels almost effortless. With acclimatization no longer a concern and the highest point already attained, you can savor the alluring mountain scenery without the same physical strain.
Camp I provides a comfortable respite before you descend the rocky moraine and grassy meadows toward the base camp. With each downward step, the air grows thicker, and your fatigues gradually disappear.
Finally, you arrive at Kyajo Ri Base Camp, a welcoming sight after days of living at higher altitudes. Here, you can finally relax and allow your body to recover fully from the demands of the climb.
Overnight stay in Kyajo Ri Base Camp.
Accommodation
Tent
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
From Kyajo Ri Base Camp, today’s trek takes you back to the familiar bustle of Namche Bazaar. Enjoy a scenic change as the trail winds downhill, leaving behind the alpine zone and entering a subtropical forest.
As you descend, the towering peaks that once loomed large appear more distant. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Sherpa settlements like Mende and Thame, each with its unique culture.
Finally, Namche Bazaar comes into view, a scenery that brings relief. Back in the comfort of your teahouses, you can savor the simple pleasures – hot showers, delicious food, steaming cups of coffee, and perhaps even a connection to the outside world via Wi-Fi.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation
Teahouse
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail descends through the Himalayan foothills. The path winds through a forest filled with blooming rhododendron trees.
You cross a suspension bridge over the milky waters of the Dudh Koshi River, reminiscent of many such crossings on your journey. Passing through Monjo, you complete the final formalities at the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint.
As you descend, the well-trodden trail is lined with mani stones and vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. With each step, the mountain scenery gives way to the sights and sounds of villages.
Finally, the winding path brings you back to Lukla, where your adventure began weeks ago. A profound sense of accomplishment fills you as you reunite with your crew to celebrate the successful summit of Kyajo Ri Peak.
Overnight stay in Lukla.
Accommodation
Teahouse
Meal
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Transportation
Walking
As your Kyajo Ri Peak Climb adventure concludes, you’ll hop on a short flight back to Kathmandu. Brace yourself for stunning aerial views of majestic mountains, lush green hills, and the remarkable sights of Kathmandu Valley below.
Upon touchdown in Kathmandu, you’ll drive to the hotel. With the rest of the day free it’s your chance to unwind and recharge. Instead of a typical city tour, why not indulge in a relaxing spa session or perhaps immerse yourself in a rejuvenating or yoga retreat? After your mountain expedition, it’s the perfect opportunity to soothe your body and mind.
Join the Nepal Ascent Treks team for a farewell dinner in the evening. Here, you’ll have the chance to bid farewell to your fellow climbers and guide, sharing good memories and experiences from your time conquering the peaks of Nepal.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
3 Star Hotel
Meal
Breakfast | Dinner
Transportation
Flight
Before you say goodbye to Kathmandu, soak up some last-minute fun! Start your day with a hearty breakfast. If you’ve got a little extra time, head to Thamel for some souvenir shopping– it’s a great way to keep the memories alive.
After that, a friendly face from Nepal Ascent Treks will whisk you off to the airport. But don’t forget, we’ve got tons of excellent trips in Nepal, India, and Bhutan. If you’re having too much fun to leave, give us a shout, and we’ll help you extend your adventure!
Meal
Breakfast
Transportation
Private car
Are you dissatisfied with this itinerary?
You can customize your holiday. Let us help you tailor-make your precious Vacation.
What's Included
Meal
- Breakfast,Lunch and dinner during the trek.
- Fresh seasonal fruits after the dinner (while on the trek).
Accomodation
- Stay in the city at finest hotel (Can upgrade of the accommodations to luxury hotels / lodge is possible at extra cost).
Staffs & Crew
- A porter and his entire expenses.
- Insurance of guide and porter.
- Professional Sherpa climbing guide
Transportation
- Airport pickup and drop facility.
- Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight tickets
- Transportation in private vehicle.
Permits & Paperworks
- Climbing permit
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
Activities
- Full day guided city tour in Kathmandu (Day 2) by a private vehicle.
Other
- Down jackets and sleeping bags (provided upon request).
- Climbing gears & equipments
- Nepal Ascent Treks duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map.
- First aid medical kit
- 5 Hot showers (Attached bathroom) on a trek
- Good quality tents and kitchen utensils for camping
Complimentary Extras
- Welcome and farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.
- Local sim card
- 1 hour trekkers massage / Yoga after the trip completion.
What's Not Included
- Cost incurred during the tour around the city.
- Nepal arrival visa.
- Cost for additional trips.
- Travel insurance which covers emergency rescue and evacuation.
- Tipping to staffs (as an appreciation).
- Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
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Essential Info
Physical Fitness
Many people have questions as to what level of physical fitness is required for visiting Nepal, and that is extremely reliant on what activity the visitor is engaging in. With that said, for a standard trek of moderate grading (Everest Base Camp Trek is an example of moderate) the daily activity will be 7-8 hours, and elevation will generally not exceed 5,500 meters. The day’s trekking is sustained and will involve both long steep climbs, and descents with a variety of terrain underfoot from well-trodden paths, to rocks covered with ice or snow. A typical day would include a number of climbs or descents of 500 meters or more, starting after breakfast, resting at lunch, then continuous trekking until arriving at the teahouse.
In preparation for trekking and climbing, it is important to begin a training requirement at least 4 months before departing for Nepal. Three to four hours of aerobic exercise like running, walking, swimming, cycling & some gym work per week is the minimum and most will find it beneficial to add some basic strength training to their physical fitness routine. One of the best ways to prepare is to take practice hikes with a daypack roughly the same weight as what you will be taking on the trek. Do this only after a baseline of fitness has been reached. Moving fast is not the end goal, rather endurance is the focus, and will provide a more enjoyable and safe adventure.
Trekking and climbing Seasons in Nepal
There are two main seasons in which Nepal sees the most amount of visitors. Fall (September through November) being the most popular, and spring (March to May) coming in close behind. The summer months of June, July and August are the monsoon season and as such the trails are mostly washed out, and roads can sometimes be impassible due to landslide activates. Not to mention the view is non-existent. Still, there are a few places that lie in rain shadow areas and see significantly less rain if any at all, and summer can be a good time to visit these places.
Winter in Nepal is dry, with very cold nights where temperatures can drop to -20°C at the highest altitudes, but the days are pleasant and sunny. Additionally, the trails are much less crowded during this time of year. In Kathmandu, maximum daytime temperatures reach around 20°C.
Fall is the most popular because it’s after the monsoons, and the air is dry, the days are sunny, and everything is green in the lower valleys from the excessive rains. Spring is a popular choice because some rain returns, but the weather is generally warm and dry, and flowers are in bloom in the lower elevations.
Trekking Day
A typical trekking day begins with a cup of tea at around 6 in the morning. It is advised to pack your trekking gears in a duffle bag and essential supplies in your day pack in these early hours. After having breakfast, we begin the trek and head along the trail at around 8 am. The morning walk is designed to be longer as we begin with refreshed bodies and enthusiasm. Following a good morning’s walk, we make stop for lunch at around 11.30 am. The lunch involves group meals enjoying the vicinity around the stop. You can explore the surrounding or use the time according to your own consent. After resting for about an hour or two, we resume our trek to reach teahouse or camp by 3-4 pm. The afternoon walk is relatively shorter and can involve games and side trips as organized by the trekking guides. You also can enjoy breaks during the trek to relax, read or stroll around the area. You can converse with the local people and observe their lifestyle. Dinner is served around 7 in the evening to round off the day.
Meals and Accommodations
During the length of the trek, the accommodation style is commonly referred to as teahouse. These are family-run basic lodges that fill the role of the restaurant, meeting place, and boarding house for tourists. Electricity can be found in the rooms, which means one light bulb, and one or two outlets for charging electronics. The common areas are also lit by electricity. Teahouses may use solar, hydroelectric, or have electrical lines running into the village, so the commonality and availability of electricity may vary.
Most teahouses have private rooms, though if the trek is in a more remote or high altitude place dormitories are the norm. Each room has 1 or 2 single beds with basic bedding, and the bathroom is shared. Expect a mix of western and squat style toilets in the bathrooms.
Breakfast and dinner are taken at the teahouse and these lodges have large family style dining rooms centered on a stove to provide heat. The menu will have Nepali style western foods such as pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and fries. Also on the menu is the traditional Dal Bhat meal. This is a lentil soup with rice and vegetable or meat curry. Most menus will also offer a smattering of local cuisine.
Internal Flight Delays
Nepal is an incredible country of mountains and valleys, rivers and green rolling hills. With this incredible diversity of landscapes, road travel can be extremely time consuming and flights within Nepal to reach popular trekking destinations is a must. Along with this mountainous terrain also comes the possibility of in climate weather. Not to mention the incredibly high number of visitors during peak seasons makes internal flight delays a very real possibility. To manage this possibility, it may be helpful to have a few extras days on either end of your tour. If any cancellations or flight delays do occur (high chances of flight delays from around Kathmandu to Lukla, Everest region), we also provide services to arrange helicopter to help you to be on your schedule on the premises of Civil Aviation Rules in Nepal which state that helicopters can fly if the visibility is 1500m. The cost ranges from USD350 to USD650 according to the number of passengers. The payment can be made either to the helicopter company or to us directly and can be made either by cash or using a credit card. It will also be helpful to purchase and review your insurance as some of the alternative measures for travel may be covered. Flight insurance too may cover changing your international flight if necessary.
Travel Insurance
Many expeditions and tours require that travel insurance is purchased prior to arriving in Nepal, but other treks and tours may not. However, travel insurance is definitely an important consideration. There are a number of reasons to consider insurance. Firstly, it may be required, so check to see what is being asked for by the company. Second, Nepal is a landlocked country, and there are few direct flights. Travel in and out can encounter some disruptions and if purchasing insurance, make sure flight delays and cancellations are included. The next reason to choose insurance is that, though every safeguard is in place during your tour, there are always extenuating circumstances that may result in an accident. Read the fine print of insurance policies to ensure trekking or any other activity you are engaging in is covered, as some policies have stopped covering trekking in certain places. It is impossible to have a relaxing trip without the comfort of good insurance, so do the research and choose carefully.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions. There are a number of entry points where you can obtain the visa upon arriving by land, but Tribhuvan International Airport is the only one for air transport.
Visa on Arrival Tourist Visa
Three options are available for entry
15-day single entry: US $30
30-day single entry: US $50
90-day multiple entries: US $125
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.
For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Acute Mountain Sickness is usually seen in un-acclimatized people shortly after ascent to high altitudes. The condition occurs due to the thinning of air as the altitude increases. The condition, if not taken seriously and treated immediately, can be life-threatening and its symptoms can be seen generally above 3000 meters. Some of the symptoms of AMS are nausea, vomiting, tiredness, shortness of breath and cerebral pain. The treks are designed to properly acclimatize you to the change in high altitude climate and sufficient precautionary measures too are taken to take utmost caution. We also equip our staffs with cell phones and satellite phones in occurrence of any emergency cases. We are greatly driven to keep the safety and security of our clients as our foremost concern.
Drinking Water
Water is essential for life, and clean water is imperative while on holiday. When choosing to visit less developed countries it is a concern that all travelers should consider. A few options are available when trekking or traveling in Nepal that will mitigate any chances of drinking contaminated water which could cause disruption of an otherwise fun adventure. The first consideration to take into account is that tap water should not be ingested. That even means when brushing your teeth. Most will choose to buy bottled water and if doing so make sure the cap has not been opened previously. Plastic bottle refuse is a problem, and with that being said there are other options on the market to assist in making water drinkable. Your local outdoor store can help with choosing what option might be best to use in conjunction with a reusable bottle. Your guide can also steer you to water that has been filtered and purified so ask him or her what is available.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you to pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
An Amazing Experience with Nepal Ascent Treks
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