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Spring 2003 departures
LANGTANG HELAMBU TREK Day 01: Arrive
Kathmandu (KTM) : Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of the
Himalayan kingdom of Nepal. Set our watches to local time, which is 53/4
hours ahead of GMT. On the time of arrival, we'll go on a city tour heading
first to the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu & Patan, exploring the many
temples and palaces before visiting Swayambunath, Pashupatinath, and
Boudhanath - three important religious sites in the valley. The rest of the
day can be spent browsing the hundreds of shops and stalls selling
everything from Kashmiri carpets & Tibetan handicrafts to the latest
trekking gear & reading materials. In the evening, the group will be
formally introduced to each other and our
Guide for the adventures & activities over the next few days will brief
us on the itinerary. We should pay attention in particular to the safety
aspects of the briefing. Any questions or doubts should be asked and
clarified at this time. All flight tickets for reconfirmation should also be
handled to the Guide who will safe-keep them until our return to KTM, so do
bring your flight tickets along. Day 02: KTM-DHUNCHE (BLD): Looking at a map,
Langtang seems quite close to Kathmandu, but in reality you still have to
endure a jarring 8hr ride in a wheezing bus to get to Dhunche. About 45
minutes out of Kathmandu, you pass through the town of Kakani where there
are great views of the Ganesh Day 03 : DHUNCHE-SYABRU (BLD) : After an hour of
warming-up and crossing the bridge on Trisuli river (1680m) that drains away
from the Gosainkund lakes, the trail begins to climb very steeply beside a
small stream for 20 minutes before leaving the stream and continuing up the
steep mountainside. At the top of this ridge (1970m) there is a teahouse at
the junction with a trail to Gosainkund. At this trail junction, we'll take
the left fork, which heads north to Bharkhu and the Langtang Valley. The
roadhead for the main trekking trail is at Thulo Bharkhu, an even smaller
hamlet perched precariously above terraced fields. From here you have fine
views up the valley towards the Tibetan border - about 20km away - a taste
of things to come. The trail out of Bharkhu climbs a steep slope to the top
of a ridge (2300m) where there is a good area to take a break. You have now
entered the Langtang Valley and you can see Ganesh Himal to the west, Tibet
to the north, and Langtang Lirung in the
east. You'll also be able to see, on a ridge top below you, the village of
Syabru. The trail contours around the ridge at first before descending a
short steep slope into Syabru (2150m). Day 04:
SYABRU-LAMA HOTEL (BLD) : Today's trail
starts meandering through the cool deciduous forests of oak and maple that
cover the lower sections of the valley and climbs through massive stands of
spruce, fir and blue pine. Towering walls close in and your paths will skirt
precipitous drops, which fall into a silt-laden river below. It's a classic
transition from temperate lowland forest to high-altitude Himalayan valley.
Descend through the village of Syabru and continue down the ridge until you
come to a trail to the east that drops sharply off the ridge and through a
dense forest. Cross a bridge (1960m) over a tributary of the Langtang Khola
and then climb for a short distance. The trail continues level for a ways
before descending, still in forest, to the Langtang Khola. The trail follows
the south bank of the river through a deep gorge with no views of the
mountains, crossing another tributary in about an hour. In another hour from
this tributary, cross yet another bridge (2050m) to the north bank of the
Langtang Khola. The trail begins climbing up from the river at this
point and in an hour, shortly after the trail levels off, you join the old
Langtang trail (2380m) from Syarpagaon and Syabrubensi. Another hour from
this trail junction brings you to the Lama Hotel in the tiny village of
Chongong (2400m). Like all of Langtang's guesthouses, Lama Hotel's
basic-but-friendly accommodation is subject to price controls set by the
local authorities. At this point you start to become aware of the firm
control the government exercises over the parks - with results that are
often good, but sometimes questionable. On one hand, there are strict
controls on tree-felling, and the park has remained mercifully free from the
satellite dishes that dominate some over-trekked parts of Nepal. Day 05: LAMA HOTEL-LANGTANG VILLAGE (BLD) : A day
further on the forest peters out and you start getting the first tantalising
glimpses of snow-capped peaks. From the Lama Hotel the trail climbs steadily
to Ghora Tabela with glimpses of Langtang Lirung (7246m) through the trees.
At times the trail becomes very steep but only for short distances.
Gradually the air becomes thinner and the climate colder. At Ghora Tabela
(3010m) the trail leaves the forest and a spectacular view of Langtang
Lirung appears. Ghora Tabela was once a Tibetan resettlement camp but is now
n army post. There is a good lodge where we'll stop for lunch. You must show
your trekking permit at the police checkpost. Continue up the valley,
leaving the forests behind, the trail ascends steadily up to Langtang
village, passing below a monastery about 30min beforehand. Langtang is an
interesting Tibetan-style village with stone walls enclosing houses and
fields where you just might see your first yaks. The Langtang National Park
headquarters is also located here and a police checkpost to show your
trekking permit. After Langtang,
you can see a community of typical flat-roofed Tibetan houses and the valley
flattens and broadens into open pasture. This is perfect for raising yaks,
and you'll see these imposing beasts everywhere. This village is also home Day 06: LANGTANG VILLAGE-KYANJIN GOMPA (BLD) : You may notice
that the valley above this point is U-shaped, which indicates that the
valley was carved by a glacier. Below Langtang, the valley has the
characteristic V-shape of a river-carved valley. Leaving Langtang, you
ascend gradually to a chorten (a small Tibetan Buddhist stupa) behind which
is a very long mani wall. The trail passes two small villages and the
village widens. You cross several streams and a moraine before arriving at
Kyanjin Gompa (3800m). Between Langtang and Kyanjin Gompa, the views just
get better and better where you'll see Yansa Tsenji (6580m) and Kimshun
(6750m) to the north and the Langtang Himal to the northwest. Since you'll
probably arrive before lunch, you'll have time to do some exploring in the
afternoon, though you may be experiencing some discomfort from the altitude.
Alternatively, take a good rest and allow your body to acclimatise with the
high altitude as much as possible to be fully-prepared for more ascending
during the next day. Day 07: KYANJIN GOMPA (BLD): A day hike farther up
the valley past the airstrip will provide more spectacular views that
include Langtang Lirung (7246m), Ganchenpo (6400m), Langshisa Ri (6320m),
Dorje Lakpa (6700m), Lenpo Gang (7100m), and Urkinmang (6170m). A 4hr walk
to the east of Kyanjin Gompa from the village is 5000m Tsergo Ri. If you
start early in the morning and are well-acclimatised,you should be able to
climb this peak and return to Kyanjin Gompa in 1 long day. The reward for
climbing to the prayer flags on its summit is a magnificent view of the
7246m Langtang Lirung, the mountain that dominates the valley. There are
numerous alternatives side trips. The surrounding area, especially to the
north, is vast and has many smaller, uninhabited valleys - ideal for
high-altitude, backcountry trekking. Several of the more moderate local
peaks are quite climbable and provide breathtaking panoramic views of
mountains in Tibet, including the 8027m Xixa Pangma. If you have the
inclination and the right equipment provided by us, the upper Langtang
Valley can also be used as a base for glacier exploration. Day 08: KYANJIN GOMPA-LAMA HOTEL (BLD) : Since you'll be acclimatised
and will be descending, you should be able to reach the Lama Hotel in a
day's walk (approx. 6hrs) from Kyanjin Gompa. Day 09: LAMA HOTEL-SYABRU (BLD) : From Lama Hotel you should be able
to reach Syabru in another 6 hours' descending. Keep retracing your steps. Day 10: SYABRU-SING GOMPA (BLD): Once you leave behind
the pleasant village of Syabru, climb past the gompa, school and army post,
and switchback up the steep hill above the village. There are a few houses
and potato fields, but always take the upper, steep trail and you'll
eventually find yourself at two pleasant teashops in the settlement of
Dursagang at 2550m. The trail continues less steeply, now mostly in forests,
past an old chorten to the top of the ridge and two shoddy tea shops at
3000m. Coming out of the forest, the trail climbs a bit more before reaching
the top of the ridge. There is a view of Dhunche far below in the valley.
The trail continues across the head of a second valley, then reaches a final
ridge at 3260m. The small Buddhist monastery of Sing Gompa is about 100m
along the trail to the left. This is the main attraction at Chandan Bari,
elevation 3250m. Because you'll be crossing a 4610m pass, it is essential
that you spend the rest of the day acclimatizing to the high elevation. Day 11:
SING GOMPA-GOSAINKUND (BLD) : From Shin Gompa the trail
continues climbing steadily through rhododendron forest with the Trisuli
Khola far below. The trail crosses over to the Langtang side of the ridge
you are climbing and stays in deep forest for a while, then emerges onto a
saddle at Chalang Pati (3380m) where a Coca Cola break awaits you. When you
embark on the trail again, a signpost in Nepali alerts you that you are now
entering the Gosainkund protected area where the killing of animals,
lighting of wood fires, and grazing of goats is prohibited. Be sure to carry
plenty of water today since there are only a few places along the ridge
where water is available. There are good views of Langtang Lirung from the
north side of the ridge, and looking west, you can see the Ganesh Himal,
Himalchuli, and Manaslu. It is even possible to see Tibet from here. You
cross high altitude summer pastures for sheep and goats before going back to
the south side of the ridge overlooking the Trisuli Khola. When you cross to
the south side of the ridge the trail becomes much narrower than it has been
up to now, and Day 12: GOSAINKUND-GHOPTE (BLD) : Leaving Gosainkund, the
trail skirts the shore of the lake before ascending towards the Laurebina
Pass. As you climb this easy slope, you'll see four more lakes of smaller
scales. You'll know you have reached the pass at 4610m when you see the many
cairns that have Day 13: GHOPTE-THAREPATI (BLD) : From Ghopte, the trail
descends to more caves and enters a thick forest of rhododendrons. After
crossing a stream, which is dry for part of the year, the trail will make a
final ascent to Tharepati (3490m), a grouping of small stone huts used in
the summer months by herders. After lunch, we'll take a
moment to climb the hill to the east of the ridge for views of Dorje
Lakpa, Shisha Pangama (8013m) and peaks all the way to Khumbu. Day 14: THAREPATI-KHUTUMSANG (BLD): The day starts out
with an easy 1-hr descent through forests, across flower-strewn meadows and
crossing streams before arriving at Magengoth at 3150m. This is a very
remote area of high pastures and oak and rhododendron forests. Keep your
eyes open for wildlife. If you're going to see any wildlife at all other
than birds, this is probably the most likely area. For the first 3 hrs the
trail descends gradually, but the second half of the day 's trek is a steep
descent to Khutumsang (2470m), a small village on a windy ridge saddle. The
Langtang National Park office here will probably check your park permit. The
village has completely adapted itself to trekkers; almost every house in
town is a hotel or shop. Day 15: KHUTUMSANG-CHISOPANI (BLD) : Keeping to the side of the
saddle, the trail ascends to a grassy meadow where you can look over to a
large chorten at Gul Bhanjyang. Cross a pass at 2620m followed by dropping
down to the Tamang village at 2130m. This is a delightful, classic hill
village with a Day 16: CHISOPAN I- KTM (BL) : The sunrise on the
Himalaya, from Annapurna to Everest, is particularly outstanding from this
point. After passing through the village of Borlang Bhanjyang, you continue
ascending most of the Shivapuri ridge through dense forest of pine, oak and
rhododendron trees. Skirting down from 2440m, you can see the remnants of a
Chaurabas village. Followed by entering into the Shivapuri Watershed &
Wildlife Reserve, a 112-sq-km walled area. At Mulkharka (1895m), we'll take
a break where you can sit back and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the
Kathmandu Valley and watch planes taking off from Tribhuvan Airport. The end
of the trek comes to a halt at Sundarijal and we'll drive back (1hr) to the
dust of Kathmandu and check into Norbu again. Upon taking a hot, relaxing
shower, get ready for some food and souvenir hunting out in the streets of
Thamel. Day
17: KTM (B) : A free day for own exploration in the valley.
Overnight at hotel. Day
18: Departure (B) : All too soon it's time to bid
Nepal farewell and one realizes that we can
Spring 2003 departures
Jomsom - Muktinath Trek Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu: Arrive Kathmandu airport
10.30pm you will be met by the staff from my agency in Kathmandu. Transfer
to the very friendly Vaishali Hotel. Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing: The following morning you
will be taken on a 1/2 day Sightseeing tour of the many holy temples and
interesting Surrounding sights of Kathmandu including the Sacred
Pashupatinath Temple and Nepal's oldest city, Bhaktapur. The remainder of
the day is yours to explore the many shops and bazaars and eating houses of
Kathmandu. Day 3: Kathmandu -
Pokhara: We spend 2 nights in Kathmandu before boarding our drive to
Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful town set on the banks of the Phewa Lake. It
is smaller and much less hectic than Kathmandu and is the perfect starting
point for our trek. Transferred by tourist bus for your 6 -hour drive to
Pokhara, a beautiful town set on the banks of the Phewa Lake. It is smaller
and much less hectic than Kathmandu and is the perfect starting point for
our trek. Your first day in
Pokhara can be spent just relaxing or you may enjoy a visit to the Tibetan
Refugee Camp and Devi Falls. The remainder of the time is yours to enjoy
either doing last minute shopping for the trek or packing your kitty bag for
the following day's departure O/N Hotel B&B The following morning you fly to Jomsom betweent
Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, both of them are higher then 8000m. Aland at
jomsom and you begin you're your trek behind the Himalayas. You will climb
gradually along the ridges that are the foothills of the Annapurnas and
Nilgiri.. Remember, however, that you are in the Himalayas and that 95
percent of the country is hilly and criss-crossed by numerous trails. There
is very little flat land. If you take it slowly and walk at an even pace you
should not experience any problems. You will pass through many villages
where you will have ample time to take photographs and chat with the local
people. Language is not a big problem as many of the local people speak
English, your Guide will be happy to translate for you. There are many
different ethnic groups along the trail, but the predominant people in this
area are the Gurungs. Together with the Thakali, Magar and Chetrie people,
the Gurungs are famous as soldiers in the British Army, better known as
Gurkhas. Along the trail the views of Nilgiri (7061),
Dhaulagiri(8167m), Machapuchare (6993m) and the Annapurnas are magnificent.
The various trails from which we can choose lead us towards such Himalayan
giants as Dhaulagiri (8167m), Lamjung, Annapurna II, and Machapuchare
(6993m). The part of jomsom is the lowest part of Tibetan pleauto and almost
like desert. Muktinath is the famous pilgrimage site. The winding trail
passes through magnificent forests of oak and rhododendron that line the
southern foothills of the Himalaya. The terrain varies from sub-tropical
valleys with banana trees and rice paddies to high ridges clad in thick
rhododendron forest. In January and February these may well be covered in
snow, while during March and April they will be a blaze of red rhododendron
flowers. Dhaulagiri(8157m) and the Dhaulagiri Range to the West.
The views here are breath taking as you sit and sip on a hot chocolate
before heading down the main trail to Pokhara. Here you will be able to see
how things have changed over the years since western man started visiting
the Himalayas. One of the added advantage of lodge trekking is being able to
sit and chat to the Sougi (Inn Keeper), whilst he spins you yarns about life
in Nepal. The altitudes of this trek vary between about 915m at Pokhara to
approx.3880m at Muktinath, going up and down will test the best pair of
knees. The secret is, take it SLOWLY! Day 04: Pokhara - Jomsom
- Kahbeni: Fly to Jomsom & sightseeing around Jomsom. The
Kaligandaki valley here is called the Thakkhola, after the native Thakalis,
who are distantly related to the Tibetans. The day we wlak to Kagbeni, the
check point of entry to Upper Mustang. Day 5: Kagbeni - Muktinath: We ascend steeply to a
3880m, at Muktinath Muktinath. This is one of the most important pilgrimage
sights for Hindus. Holy water flows from the 108 carved spouts surrounding
the Vishnu temple in a grove of poplars. Muktinath is also home to many
ethnic Tibetans and holy Buddhists, who come here for the temple in which
fire miraculously burns in a stream of water inside a small but very holy
temple. Day 6: Muktinath - Jomsom: Descend gradually through
fields and poplar groves, then into the Kali Gandaki river valley. Follow
the valley southwards to Jomsom. The Kali Gandaki valley here is called the
Thak Khola, from the ethnic group the Thakalis,
the main inhabitants of this area. Day 7: Jomsom -Kalopani: Descend to Marpha, a lovely
village of whitewashed houses and fertile fields. Continue down the Kali
Gandaki reaching the old Thakali trading centre of Tukuche. As the trail
continues, the Himalayan rainshadow end and open spaces make way for
coniferous forest and Kalopani (2560m.) From here there are spectacular 360
degree views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas high above. Day 8: Kalopani - Tatopani: A beautiful walk, with
another transition into sub-tropical vegetation and the return of water
buffalo, banyan trees andpoinsettias. The trail follows the river through a
narrow gorge, and descends to cross a bridge near a spectacular waterfall,
before winding through the valley to Tatopani. The hot water springs that
give the village its name provide the perfect opportunity for a good
'scrub.' Day 9: Tatopani - Ghorepani: Steadily climbing all day,
we eventually leave behind the terraced fields and walk through thick
rhododendron forest to the village of Ghorepani. We camp at the pass for the
best views of the sunset over the spectacular, snow-capped Dhaulagiri and
the Annapurna Range. Day 10: Ghorepani - Tadapani: A short early-morning
climb to the Deurali pass for a spectacular panorama over Dhaulagiri and the
Annapurnas, and all the way south to the plains of India. Trail descends
steeply through dense moss-covered forest rich with birdlife to Tadapani
(2540m) for beautiful sunset views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhare. Day 11: Tadapani - Ghandrung: Trail descends steeply
through dense damp forest, where you may see monkeys, and continues down
over a series of rock-cut steps that follow a leaping stream. Arrive in
Ghandrung (1940m) and explore the maze-like streets of this thriving Gurung
settlement. Day 12: Ghandrung - Birethanti - Pokhara: A steady
climb down past startlingly green cultivated terraces and picturesque,
beautifully-preserved farms to the scurrying Modi River, which the trail
follows back to Birethanti. Drive to Pokhara. O/N at Hotel. Day 13: Drive Back to Kathmandu Day 14: Free on your own Cost Includes:
Not Incuded:
Spring 2003 departures
Annapurna Area: Outside Kathmandu, its teeming capital, Nepal is a land
of remote mountain villages, whose people survive by growing their own food
on the thousands of hill terraces that scale even the steepest slopes.
Mechanized farming is unheard of here; the fields are ploughed by
water-buffalo, the corn harvested and threshed by hand and ground by water
mills. If you stay in a trekking lodge, your bread will likely as not be
made from flour ground that day, your vegetables freshly harvested from the
fields. For a short trek with few altitude problems, the Annapurna region provides you with unparalleled access to spectacular horizons of snowy peaks, so high that you'll find yourself looking twice before you believe that they are not clouds. As well as providing the views for which the trek is famous, the trail takes you through an ever-changing landscape of rice fields, misty forests and tiny local villages. Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu : Arrive Kathmandu airport
10.30pm you will be met by the staff from my agency in Kathmandu. Transfer
to the very friendly Vaishali Hotel. Day 2:
Kathmandu Sightseeing: The following morning you
will be taken on a 1/2 day Sightseeing tour of the many holy temples and
interesting Surrounding sights of Kathmandu including the Sacred
Pashupatinath Temple and Nepal's oldest city, Bhaktapur. The remainder of
the day is yours to explore the many shops and bazaars and eating houses of
Kathmandu. Day 3: Kathmandu - Pokhara: We spend 2 nights in Kathmandu before boarding our drive to Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful town set on the banks of the Phewa Lake. It is smaller and much less hectic than Kathmandu and is the perfect starting point for our trek. Transferred by tourist bus for your 6 -hour drive to Pokhara, a beautiful town set on the banks of the Phewa Lake. It is smaller and much less hectic than Kathmandu and is the perfect starting point for our trek. Your first day in Pokhara can be spent just relaxing or you may enjoy a visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp and Devi Falls. The remainder of the time is yours to enjoy either doing last minute shopping for the trek or packing your kitty bag for the following day's departure O/N Hotel B&B. The following morning you begin your your trek North of
the Himalayas. You will climb gradually along the ridges that are the
foothills of the Annapurnas. Remember, however, that you are in the
Himalayas and that 95 percent of the country is hilly and criss-crossed by
numerous trails. There is very little flat land. If you take it slowly and
walk at an even pace you should not experience any problems. You will pass
through many villages where you will have ample time to take photographs and
chat with the local people. Language is not a big problem as many of the
local people speak English, your Guide will be happy to translate for you.
There are many different ethnic groups along the trail, but the predominant
people in this area are the Gurungs. Together with the Magar and Chetrie
people, the Gurungs are famous as soldiers in the British Army, better known
as Gurkhas. Along the trail the views of Machapuchare and the
Annapurnas are magnificent. The various trails from which we can choose lead
us towards such Himalayan giants as Dhaulagiri (8167m), Lamjung, Annapurna
II, and Machapuchare (6993m). Climbing higher, the winding trail passes
through magnificent forests of oak and rhododendron that line the southern
foothills of the Himalaya. The terrain varies from sub-tropical valleys with
banana trees and rice paddies to high ridges clad in thick rhododendron
forest. In January and February these may well be covered in snow, while
during March and April they will be a blaze of red rhododendron flowers. You will visit the famous Poon Hill where you will
hopefully be blessed with a fantastic sunrise and 360 deg view of all the
Annapurna Range including Annapurna South (7272m) Annapurna I (8091m) with
imposing views of the Mt. Dhaulagiri(8157m) and the Dhaulagiri Range to the
West. The views here are breath taking as you sit and sip on a hot chocolate
before heading down the main trail to Pokhara. Here you will be able to see
how things have changed over the years since western man started visiting
the Himalayas. One of the added advantage of lodge trekking is being able to
sit and chat to the Sougi (Inn Keeper), whilst he spins you yarns about life
in Nepal. After Dovang, you will be walking through alpine meadow
and breath taking views of mountains. The can be some avalanches problem in
spring near Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Once You arrived at Annapurna Base
Camp, you will be surrounded by snowcapped mountain sanctuary. The altitudes
of this trek vary between about 915m at Pokhara to approx.4200m at Annapurna,
going up and down will test the best pair of knees. The secret is, take it
SLOWLY! Day 4: Pokhara - Birethanti - Ulleri: Drive to
Birethanti (1140m) from Pokhara. Walk through the lush, green Modi river
valley, past waterfalls with plunge pools that invite you to swim. Ascend
steep staircase to Magar village of Ulleri (2070m,) where you will be
rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley below and the peaks of
Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Day 5: Ulleri - Ghorepani: A gentle climb through
pasture and cultivated fields. As the trail climbs higher, you walk up
beside the cascading river through refreshingly cool oak and rhododendron
forest to Ghorepani (2840m.) Day 6: Ghorepani - Tadapani: A short early-morning climb
to the Deurali pass for a spectacular panorama over Dhaulagiri and the
Annapurnas, and all the way south to the plains of India. Trail descends
steeply through dense moss-covered forest rich with birdlife to Tadapani
(2540m) for beautiful sunset views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhare. Day 7: Tadapani - Chhomrung: The trail drops down from
Tadapani, through dense rhododendron forest. From Ghandrung there are good
views of the upper Modi valley. The route starts the long ascent high above
the west bank of the Modi Khola, and continues up to the village of
Chhomrung (2040m.) Towering above the village is the mighty peak of
Annapurna South, with the Fishtail facing it across the valley. Day 8: Chhomrung -Himalayan Hotel: We walk through the
forest to Kuldi Ghar , before the route goes steeply down a bank of rock and
then levels out, running through riverside bamboo thickets along the base of
the gorge. Then the track winds steeply up through deep bamboo and
rhododendron forest to the village of Doban. We camp above Himalaya Hotel
(2680m.) Day 9: Annapurna South Glacier Basin : The track remains
on the west bank of the Modi, now flowing through a more open valley, and
eventually emerges into the Sanctuary. Straight ahead is the high lateral
moraine of the South Annapurna glacier and the Modi follows a deep cliff to
the right. This is the site of Machhapuchhre base camp (3480m) from which
can be seen a spectacular panorama of mountains. We either camp here or
continue north west, staying above the glacial moraine. Day 10: Annapurna South Base Camp Visit: The route
begins on a broad grassy path, before climbing over lateral moraine and down
to the beautiful ablation valley. We soon reach the British Expedition
Annapurna South Face Base Camp (4234m.) The best views are probably obtained
from the crest of the moraine, which we follow until it is cut through by
the glacier flowing down from Himal Chuli to the north. Day 11: Annapurna South Base Camp- Dovan: Descend and
follow the same route to a pleasant camp spotat Dovan, which lies on the
boundary of the Sanctuary. Day 12: Dovan - Modi Khola: The trail passes the small
village of Khuldi Bikas, before continuing through rhododendron and bamboo
fields to the Alpine-style village of Chhomrung. Stony steps climb steeply
to Kabre Chautara and soon after we turn off for Landrung, leaving the
Ghandrung path dropping away towards the river. Day 13: Modi Khola - Dhampus: After an easy descent to
the Gurung village of Landrung, the trail crosses a pass before arriving at
the tiny village of Dhampus, perched high on a ridge. Day 14: Dhampus - Pokhara: It's a short climb down to
Phedi, where we meet the road and drive back to Pokhara. Sadly this is the
last day of your trek you return to Pokhara for a further 2 nights. Pokhara
will seem like a teeming metropolis after the serenity of the hill trails.
You're last night in Pokhara is a great opportunity to throw a party for the
Sherpas and porters. Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu Day 16: Free on your own Cost Includes:
Not Included:
Annapurna Area: Outside Kathmandu, its teeming capital, Nepal is a land of remote mountain villages, whose people survive by growing their own food on the thousands of hill terraces that scale even the steepest slopes. Mechanized farming is unheard of here; the fields are ploughed by water-buffalo, the corn harvested and threshed by hand and ground by water mills. If you stay in a trekking lodge, your bread will likely as not be made from flour ground that day, your vegetables freshly harvested from the fields. Annapurna Circuit Trek
: Few places in he worlds have such a splendid variety of
natural beauty as the Annapurna region. It is a rare combination of long
arrays of snow capped peaks, crystal clear lakes, turbulent rivers with deep
gorges, Tibetan monasteries, hot-springs, and picturesque villages inhabited
by simple and friendly local people. This three-week trek takes you far away
from the road, into the heart of the high mountains. Day 1:
Welcome to Kathmandu: Arrive Kathmandu airport
10.30pm you will be met by the staff from my agency in Kathmandu. Transfer
to the very friendly Vaishali Hotel. Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing: The following morning you
will be taken on a 1/2 day Sightseeing tour of the many holy temples and
interesting Surrounding sights of Kathmandu including the Sacred
Pashupatinath Temple and Nepal's oldest city, Bhaktapur. The remainder of
the day is yours to explore the many shops and bazaars and eating houses of
Kathmandu. Day 3: Kathmandu -
Beshishar: We spend 2 nights in Kathmandu before boarding our 6 -hour
drive to Beshishar, a small beautiful town the district head quarter of
Lamgung district, set on the banks of the Marshyangdi river. It is smaller
and much less hectic than Kathmandu and is the perfect starting point for
our trek. Day 4: Beshishar - Bahundanda : We walk through the deep
river gorge, rice fields, sub-tropical forest and small hamlets to the
Gurung village of Khudi. From here, the trail continues along the riverside
past a majestic waterfall to Bahundanda, watched over by the towering peaks
of Himal Chuli and Manaslu. Day 5: Bahundanda - Chamje : A steep and slippery trail
runs up and down along the valley side through paddy fields, dips to cross
the river and then snakes steeply up the cliffs on the other side. Passing
through tiny Tibetan villages, the trail ascends through the rhododendron
forest to Chamje, a small settlement at 1430m. Day 6: Chamje - Bagarchhap: The path climbs beside the
river through bamboo groves, before a dramatic waterfall heralds our arrival
at Tal, a large village on a suddenly-emerging open plateau. We cross barley
and potato fields to reach Dharapani and begin to climb to Bagarchhap
(2160m,) site of our first Tibetan Monastery and with views of Annapurna II
and Lamjung Himal. Day 7: Bagarchhap - Chame: The trail climbs along the
mule track through pine and fir forest and then follows the river for a time
amongst the higher oak and maple trees. We pass through scattered small
villages before arriving at Chame (2630m.) Day 8: Chame - Pisang: The trail undulates through the
river valley, ascending through deep forest to Pisang (3190m) with good
views along the way of Pisang peak and the high Annapurna II. Day 9: Pisang - Manang: Tibetan culture begins in
earnest as we start to climb towards Manang (3535m) through fields of
grazing yak and a wide variety of crops. This large Tibetan settlement
commands good views of Annapurna II, IV and Tarke Kang. It is no problem to
trek here in the summer as rainfall is low. Day 10: Manang: This is a rest day to acclimatise to the
higher altitude. Time to visit Monasteries, take advice from the Himalayan
Rescue Association and observe the spectacular views of the Himalaya. Day 11: Manang - Latdar: The trail climbs to Latdar
along the riverside and as the altitude increases, we move through alpine
pastures to scrubby forests of juniper and rose. We camp at an elevation of
4250m. Day 12: Latdar - Thorung Phedi: The trail undulates near
the river, before climbing a steep scree slope north west of the tributary
valley of the Jargeng Khola. It is sometimes possible to see herds of blue
mountain sheep along the dramatic cliffs that surround the camping meadow at
Thorung Phedi (4420m.) Day 13: Thorung Phedi - Muktinath: We ascend steeply to
a 4590m, then along an undulating trail to the flat top of Thorung La
(5416m.) From here there are views of the Annapurna range to the south and
Mukut Himal bordering Dolpo to the West. The trail descends steeply over
glacial moraine, which gives way to grassy meadows before we reach Muktinath.
This is one of the most important pilgrimage sights for Hindus. Holy water
flows from the 108 carved spouts surrounding the Vishnu temple in a grove of
poplars. Muktinath is also home to many ethnic Tibetans and holy Buddhists,
who come here for the temple in which fire miraculously burns in a stream of
water inside a small but very holy temple. Day 14: Muktinath - Jomsom: Descend gradually through
fields and poplar groves, then into the Kali Gandaki river valley. Follow
the valley southwards to Jomsom. The Kali Gandaki valley here is called the
Thak Khola, from the ethnic group the Thakalis, the main inhabitants of this
area. Day 15: Jomsom -Kalopani: Descend to Marpha, a lovely
village of whitewashed houses and fertile fields. Continue down the Kali
Gandaki reaching the old Thakali trading centre of Tukuche. As the trail
continues, the Himalayan rainshadow end and open spaces make way for
coniferous forest and Kalopani (2560m.) From here there are spectacular 360
degree views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas high above. Day 16: Kalopani - Tatopani: A beautiful walk, with
another transition into sub-tropical vegetation and the return of water
buffalo, banyan trees and poinsettias. The trail follows the river through a
narrow gorge, and descends to cross a bridge near a spectacular waterfall,
before winding through the valley to Tatopani.
The hot water springs that give the village its name provide the perfect
opportunity for a good 'scrub.' Day 17: Tatopani - Ghorepani: Steadily climbing all day,
we eventually leave behind the terraced fields and walk through thick
rhododendron forest to the village of Ghorepani. We camp at the pass for the
best views of the sunset over the spectacular, snow-capped Dhaulagiri and
the Annapurna Range. Day 18: Ghorepani - Tadapani: A short early-morning
climb to the Deurali pass for a spectacular panorama over Dhaulagiri and the
Annapurnas, and all the way south to the plains of India. Trail descends
steeply through dense moss-covered forest rich with birdlife to Tadapani
(2540m) for beautiful sunset views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhare. Day 19: Tadapani - Ghandrung: Trail descends steeply
through dense damp forest, where you may see monkeys, and continues down
over a series of rock-cut steps that follow a leaping stream. Arrive in
Ghandrung (1940m) and explore the maze-like streets of this thriving Gurung
settlement. Day 20: Ghandrung - Dhampus: The path descends for about
2 hours, before climbing steeply to another Gurung village, Landrung. We
then follow the hillside south to the Dhampus. The mountain views are superb
and far away to the south lies Fewa Tal (lake.) We continue down the ridge
to the village of Dhampus, from where the distant mountains are still
visible. Day 21: Dhampus - Phedi - Pokhara: Steep descent through
the river valley to Phedi, then drive to Pokhara. Day 22: Pokhara - Kathmandu: Drive to Kathmandu. Day 23: Free on your own Cost Includes:
Not Included:
Spring 2003 departures
Everest Base Camp Trek, 24 Days, grade 4 US$ 1215.00 Autumn 2002 departures
Spring 2003 departures
EVEREST TREK
With eight of the worlds ten highest peaks, Nepal is
loaded with spectacular mountains vistas. The Everest trek is justifiably
famous, not only for its proximity to the world's highest mountain but also
for its friendly Sherpa people, picturesque villages, great variety of
cultures and traditions, Start festivals and monasteries. The Sagarmatha
National Park is rich with flora and fauna, but the existence of the yeti
remains a mystery. Day 1:
Arrive in Kathmandu (1330m): Met on arrival and
transferred to your hotel. You will meet your group leader and a pre-trek
briefing will be given in the afternoon at the hotel. Day 2:
Day at leisure in Kathmandu: After a gear
check, any necessary items will be hired or purchased. Local sightseeing can
be arranged by our office in Kathmandu. Day 03:
Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding The trail climbs
for about an hour after Puiyan to a ridge at 2800 metres, then up to another
ridge, passing the path to Lukla airport, after which we climb on to
Phakding. Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar The trail continues
north up the Dudh Kosi valley to Jorsale, where the trail officially enters
the Sagarmatha National Park. There is an entrance station just beyond the
village where trekking permits are checked and National Park fees collected.
We continue along the trail, cross the Bhote Kosi River and climb steeply to
Namche Bazaar 3500 m. Remember to look out for glimpses of Mt.Everest early
on the trail. Day 05: Rest day for acclimatisation.
We have a rest day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatise. This town, the
hub of Sherpa society, is the administrative centre of the Khumbu region and
has a police checkpost (we must all register there), the headquarters of the
Sagarmatha National Park, a bank, several shops selling items of every
description and a proliferation of Sherpa inns. We spend the day relaxing or
exploring the town. Day 6:
Namche - Tengboche From Namche a steep one hour
climb to Syangboche (3720 m) provides excellent views of EVEREST and Ama
Dablam. From there we descend to Punki Thanka via Khumjung, then the trail
climbs through forests where you can spot musk deer. Tengboche sits on a
saddle at 3870m in a clearing surrounded by dwarf fires and rhododendrons.
Kwangde (6187m,) Tawachhe (6542m)EVEREST (8848 m) Nuptse (7855m,) Lhotse
(8618m,) Ama Dablam (6856m) Thamserku (6608m)provide an inspiring panorama
of Himalayan giants. We visit the monastery at Tengboche, the largest in
Khumbu region. Day 7: Tengboche - Dingboche It is a short, steep and
muddy descent to Deboche through a forest of birches, conifers and
rhododendrons. We then cross the bridge and ascend through the forest, past
magnificently carved mani stones to Pangboche at 3860m. Then the route
enters alpine meadows above the tree line before reaching Dingboche at
4240m. Day 8:
Dingboche - Lobuche The trail ascends the broad,
gently sloping valley and climbs steeply into the terminal moraine of the
Khumbu glaciers. It then crosses the bridge and climbs higher on the moraine
to a row of stone monuments erected in memory of many Sherpas and foreign
mountaineers who have died climbing Everest before reaching Lobuche (4930m.) Day 9: Lobuche - Gorak Shep - Kala Pattar - Gorkshep.
The trail from Lobuche follows the grassy ablation valley with great
views of Pumori then crosses a tributary glacier to reach the dry lake bed
of Gorak Shep. We then climb the 5545m Kala Pattar for incredible views of
Everest and Everest Base Camp. Day 10: Return trek to Pheriche Day 11: Return trek to Tengboche Day 12: Return trek to Namche Day 14: Return trek to Phakding Day 15: Return trek to Lukla Day 16:
Fly to Kathmandu. O/N (Over night) at hotel. Day 17: Free day in Kathmandu. This day can be used if in
case of flight Cancellation Cost Includes:
Not
Included:
Everest Trek 24 days: With eight of the worlds ten highest peaks, Nepal is
loaded with spectacular mountains vistas. The Everest trek is justifiably
famous, not only for its proximity to the world's highest mountain but also
for its friendly Sherpa people, picturesque villages, great variety of
cultures and traditions, Start festivals and monasteries. The Sagarmatha
National Park is rich with flora and fauna, but the existence of the yeti
remains a mystery. Day 01:
Arrive Kathmandu. You will be met on arrival
and transferred to your hotel, the Vaishali, or similar. Evening pre-trek
briefing. Day 02:
Half day excursion touring Kathmandu (private
bus) with its many temples and pagodas. In the afternoon your trek
packs will be issued and other pre-trek arrangements are dealt with.
Rest of the day free in Kathmandu. Day 03:
Kathmandu - Lukla
- Phakding : The trail climbs for about an hour after Puiyan to a
ridge at 2800 metres, then up to another ridge, passing the path to Lukla
airport, after which we climb on to Phakding. Meet others in the group those
who have started from Jiri. Day 04:
Phakding to Namche Bazaar : The trail
continues north up the Dudh Kosi valley to Jorsale, where the trail
officially enters the Sagarmatha National Park. There is an entrance station
just beyond the village where trekking permits are checked and National Park
fees collected. We continue along the trail, cross the Bhote Kosi River and
climb steeply to Namche Bazaar 3500 m. Remember to look out for glimpses of
Mt.Everest early on the trail. Day 05: Rest day for acclimatisation. : We have a rest day in Namche
Bazaar to acclimatise. This town, the hub of Sherpa society, is the
administrative centre of the Khumbu region and has a police checkpost (we
must all register there), the headquarters of the Sagarmatha National Park,
a bank, several shops selling items of every description and a proliferation
of Sherpa inns. Day 06:
Namche to Thame: Perhaps one of the most
fascinating days of the trek, we travel to the village of Thame (12,464').
We spend the evening visiting the home and dining with the family of Lhakpa
Rita Sherpa, our Sirdar (lead Sherpa). His family has been a mainstay of
this small community, raising yaks and farming. This gives us an intimate
view of Sherpa culture while visiting a traditional home. Interestingly
enough a number of famous climbing Sherpas have come from Thame. The 'Thame'
experience is one rarely afforded to trekkers. Day 07: Thame to Khumjung: Waking early we climb to the
Thame monastery and further explore local Buddhism. We tour this
400-year-old gompa and learn about its inner workings and the lives of its
monks. As we tour the monastery we discuss the wall paintings and artifacts
that are central to Buddhist practice. Before departure we will hopefully
have the opportunity to meet and receive a blessing from the Thame Rinpoche
(head priest).We return the same way close top namche and the we Climb to
Syangboche, then Day 08: Khumjung to Dole: Leaving the main trail to Mt.
Everest, we climb high on a ridge to 4000m past a large chorten at the
village of Mong, said to be the birthplace of the saint Lama Sange Dorje,
the reincarnate lama of Rongbuk Monastory in Tibet who introduced
Buddhism to Khumbu. From there we descend to the village of Phortse
Tenga by the Dudh Kosi (river). From Phortse the trai climbs steeply
through forests of rhododendrons and then stands of juniper and large
conifers as the altitude increases. We pass through Sherpa kharkas (high
pasture summer settlements used by Sherpas to graze their herds of yaks
allowing their lower winter pastures to recover) and the villages of Tongba
3950m and Gyele 3960m to Dole. We have great views of Khumbila and Tawachee
peaks throughout the day. Day 9: Dole to Machhermo: Today we have a short and
fairly leisurely trek to allow
us to acclimatize to the altitude. In the morning we have a steep but
beautiful climb through conifer and rhododendron forests
and stands of juniper to Lhabarma 4220m and Luza 4360m. There are
kharkas wherever there is a flat spot and the slightest hint of water. We
continue to climb along the side of the valley, high above the river to the camp at Machhermo
4410 m. It was here in 1974 that a yeti supposedly killed three yaks and
attacked a Sherpa woman. So watch out for Yeti in this area. Day 10:
Machhermo to Gokyo: This is your first real
day at high altitude and the trekking today may be described as moderate to
difficult. However, the going is slow (in fact, it is recommended that you
walk slowly to avoid exhausting yourself). We climb a ridge from where the
valley opens wide as the trail passes through Pangkha. Mt. Cho Oyu
8153 m dominates the skyline to the north as we climb the moraine on the
left flank of the Ngozumpa Glacier. The climb is steep
to the first of the four lakes that lie in the Gokyo area but the
trail levels off towards the second lake, Longponga at 4690m. We finally
ascend a path past the largest of the lakes Dudh Pokhari to Gokyo at 4750m.
Gokyo is a typical kharka stone houses and stone walled pastures. Day
11: Rest and Explore around: A free day to explore
the area around Gokyo or rest. For enthusiasts a rigorous hike up Gokyo Ri
5360m, the small peak above camp provides spectacular views of the Everest
trinity, Nuptse 7879m, Lhotse 8511m, and Everest 8848m, as well as Makalu
8463m looming to the east, Cho Oyu 8153m to the north and the smaller but
closer peaks of Cholatse and Tawachee to the south. There is a wonderful
view of Gokyo and Dudh Pokhari spread out below us. The next day we will
explore further up the valley Of the Ngozumpa Glacier and visit two glacial
lakes. The really fit can climb to the top of nameless peak 5800m
overlooking the two lakes. Day 12:
Goykyo to Chhyugima (Dragnag): A long day and
the most difficult part of this trek. We cross the southern end of the
Ngozumpa Glacier, pass by the
stone huts of Thagna kharka then climb steadily up a narrow and steep valley
which opens up to a wide
shallow valley leading to our camp at Kharka Chhyugima 5170m. Day 13:
Chhyugima to Dzonglha: Today we have a steep
and challenging but, non-technical climb over rock, snow and perhaps ice to
Chola La (pass) 5420m which links the glacial valleys of Cho Oyu and Everest
and from where we have superb views. We descend from the pass, cross a small
glacier, Day 14: Dzonglha to Lobuche: After a morning of rest,
we hike on a trail above Tsholo Lake and join the main Everest trail at
Dughla on the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. From Dughla we climb
up the moraine past a row of stone monuments in memory of Sherpas who died
on expeditions to Everest and on to our camp at Lobuche 4930m. Day 15: Excursion to Kala
Pattar: Overnight (O/N
at Gorkshep).: We make an early morning start and ascend the trail along
boulder fields and glacial debris to the edge of the Khumbu Glacier then
continue up to Gorak Shep (5160 m.), nestled below the coned summit of Mt.
Pumori (7161m.) and the sheer west face of Nuptse. From there we make a
steep ascent to the top of a small peak, Kala Pattar 5545m
meaning "black rock". From here the views is magnificent
enough to make us forget the difficulty of the climb. Everest , Nuptse, Ama
Dablan, Kantega, Tamserku, Tawatse and Pumo Ri all present themselves in a
360 degree panorama. Day 16:
Spare day: Spare Day Or Excursion to Everest
Base Camp if there are any climebrs just return from Everest expedition:
Spare day for rest and recreation or excursions or washing or whatever. It
may be used as a catch up day if we are running behind time, things don't
always turn out as planned in the Himalayas. Day 17: Gorkshep - Thukla (4620m)- Dingboche (4320m):
Return trek to Lobuche and a short descend to Thukla and an easy flat trail
to and a small descend to Dingboche. This is the highest big settelement in
the Khumbu area of Sherpas. Day 18: Excursions around Chhukung: There are many
interesting excursions possible using Chhukung as a base each one revealing
ever more spectacular views of the nearby high peaks. For the more energetic
the climb to Chhukung Ri 5546m is very rewarding. with spectacular views of
the south faces of Nuptse and Lhotse and a great view of Kkongma La across
the Nuptse Glacier. An alternative excursion is to Pareshaya Gyab, the base
camp for assaults on Imja Tse formerly known as Island Peak. Day 19: Chhukung - Thyangboche:: From Chhukung we
descend the valley of the Imja Khola, trek through the village of Dingboche
with its stone walled potatoe fields, down alpine pastures through the
kharkas of Tsura, Orsho and Shomare to the village of Pangboche, the highest
year round settlement in the valley. The Pangboche Gompa (monastory) is the
oldest in the Khumbu and once used to boast the skull and hand of a Yeti,
(stolen in 1991) Day 20: Thyanboche to Namche Bazaar: From Thyangboche
the trail drops sharply down to the
Dudh Kosi and the village of Phunki,
where we cross the river, and
up toward Namche Bazaar, winding high above the river with views north
towards Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse. Day
21: Trek to Lukla.: We retrace our trek down along
the gorge of the Dudh Kosi to at Lukla to catch our return flight to Kathmandu. Weather
permitting our trekking crew might prepare a farewell treat for you. You
will be invited and expected to join in the singing and the dancing!! It's Day
22: Fly to Kathmandu.: Fly to Kathmandu. Transfer to
Hotel, and then free time in Kathmandu. Day 23: Explore Kathmandu: Explore Kathmandu. It might
be a nice gesture to invite and shout our
sirdar, his assistant guide/s and the cook to dinner at one of the "posher"
restaurant inexpensive to us
but unreachably expensive to them. Day 24: End of Ulitmate Everest Trek End of Sherpaland
Ultimate Everest Trek in Kathmandu. Cost Includes:
Not
Included:
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