Pilgrimage
to Mansarovar and the Holy Mt. Kailash
Tibet one of those extraordinary
destination where indeed adventure lurks around every corner! Adventure on
the road is never short on the beautiful Transhimalayan drive, through
mountain, passes, promising a panorama of a cultural and scenic diversity
unsurpassable anywhere. It culminates on an arid plateau - a varitable
treasure trove of architectural masterpieces -
the Buddhist monasteries of Drepung, once the largest in the country The
Jhokhang - a spiritual center, and the awesome palaces of the Dalai Lama -
Norbulinga ( the summer palace ) and the Potala ( the traditional seat ).
Ancient Barkhor Bazaar still barters the bric -- a -- brac, in a region
that's not so much a little strange as utterly surreal.
Mt.Kailash claimed to be the apex of the Hindu religious axis is also one of
the highest mountain in Tibet at 22,022 feet, and Lake Mansarovar at 14,950
feet is said to be the highest fresh water lake in the world. Certainly a
difficult region to reach due to the variable and extreme weather
conditions. The distance from Lhasa for example is approximately 2000 km.
Only during the last few years have lots of ordinary and not so ordinary
travellers, been able to experience this region. Road conditions are
difficult much of the time and we have to make many preparations to ensure
that we have a reasonable chance of reaching Kailash. We need to bring our
own food and camping equipment. Basic lodges and tea-houses can be found but
the plateau is so remote that it is possible to travel for several days
without finding food available.
To travel for days on this remote plateau with the chance encounters of
nomads herding their sheep or yaks is to be transformed into another way of
life, to see and become part of such a devout pilgrimage as shown by
pilgrims around Mt.Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is to put some aspects of our
western way of life into proper perspective.
We begin the tour by traveling to Kathmandu and departing by flight to Lhasa.
We travel by the SOUTHERN route and after our pilgrimage (religious or
secular) we return by the same route up to Lhatse and then turn south to
Nepal via Nyalam and Zhangmu. The day to day program is outlined as follows:
12 May |
Arrive Kathmandu. Meet at
the airport and transfer to hotel. |
13 May |
Kathmandu.
Preperation of the trip, visa arrangements and briefing. This day can be
used as reserve day if in case of flight cancellation if some one
already have Chinese visa at home. |
14 May |
Fly Kathmandu to Lhasa 3650m |
15 May |
Lhasa: Today
will be spent visiting, Sera Monastery, Norbulingka, Jokhang Temple. |
16 May |
Lhasa: This morning we will
visit the Potala Palace and Drepung Monastery |
17 May |
Drive to
Gyantse (3950m) 261 km |
18 May |
Drive to Shigatse (3900m)
90kms |
19 May |
Drive to
Lhatse (4050m) 157km |
20 May |
Drive to Saga (4600m) |
21 May |
Drive to
Paryang (4750m) |
22 May |
Drive to Manasarovar (4560m) |
23 May |
Rest day |
24 May |
drive to Tarboche (4750m) |
25 May |
Trek to
Dira-puk |
26 May |
Trek to Zutul-puk (4790m) |
27 May |
Trek to
Darchen (4560m) |
28 May |
Drive to Paryang (4750m) |
29 May |
Drive to
Saga (4600m) |
30 May |
Drive to Peiko-tso 110km |
31 May |
Drive to
Zhangmu (2300m) 180km and then to Dhulikhel 90 Km 1650m. |
June 01 |
1 Hour drive to Kathmandu
(1400m) |
June 02 |
Departure
from kathmandu |
Cost
US$ 2500
IMPORTANT PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Included in the Land cost: Transport by motorcoach coach/landrover/automobile
as required, and accommodation with daily
breakfast. Tibet for the rest of we use the best available guest houses, but
these offer more basic accommodation and fewer amenities. Sightseeing Tours,
Services of English speaking Local Tibetan /Chinese Guides, entrance fees to
monasteries and other points of interest, Tibet permits, Kathmandu - Lhasa
airfare as per itinerary and visa charges are also included. 3 nights
accommodation and transfers also included.Trek: Guide, cook, Yak, food,
cooking uttensils, camping gear etc also
included.
Not included in the land cost: Insurance, airport departure taxes, Nepalese
Visa, Passport fees, immunizations, hard and soft drinks, Photographic
charges in various monasteries, gratuities and items of any personal nature
that have not been specifically included above.
Visas and documentation: You must be in possession of a valid passport. We
obtain your visa for Tibet, and will require the following information when
making your reservation: full name, date of expiry, place of issue,
nationality, date of birth, sex and occupation. Two passport size
photographs are also required. Additionally you must allow three full
working days in Kathmandu for the visa to be fiscally stamped in your
passport. A 60 day's double entry visa for Nepal can be obtained from all
Nepalese Embassies abroad or upon your arrival in Kathmandu airport in US$
55.
Accessories: We recommend you to bring the following items to make your
journey more comfortable : Personal first aid kid, water purification
tablets, toilet kit with toilet paper, flashlight with extra batteries,
sunglasses, water botle, note book, pens, pencils, camera and film and extra
batteries for electronic Cameras, binoculars, Duffel bag, rain gear, strong
footwear, pocket knife, sewing kits, compass, altimeter, drinking cup,
towel, plastic bags, dust mask, strong sun cream, chapstic, and money belt.
Insurance: We recommend you to insure
yourself against sickness, emergency rescue, accident, Hospitalization,
cancellation etc., as we accept no responsibility or expenses which may
arise from mishaps to persons or their belongings during these tours.
Altitude Sickness: The Tibetan Plateau
lies over 12000 feet, most people will experience some of the minor symptoms
and discomfort of altitude sickness, until their body adjust to the
elevation. This can take from a few hours to couple of days, depending on
the individual.
Arun Valley to Everest
MODERATE PLUS
23 DAY CAMPING TREK 5 NIGHTS KATHMANDU US1420
Arrive Kahmandu 25th March
This is a trek to beat all treks. This classic trek that trekker's worldwide
want to leave their bootprint on! Few treks compare with this spectacular
trek in the remote eastern region of Nepal. As we ascend from the lush
tropical pastures of the Arun Valley 400mtrs to Gokyo Ri 5360mtrs, we view
some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, and of course "The Top of
the World Mt Everest." Our first acclimatization days are spent at Namche
Bazaar, home of the legendary Sherpa people. This colorful village was once
the main trading route between Tibet and Nepal and offers a unique insight
into the traditional Nepali and Tibetan way of life.
On this 23 day trek we will visit the famous Buddhist Monastery at
Thyanboche which has been restored after being destroyed by fire in 1989.
Thyangboche is surrounded by some of the most beautiful mountainous scenery
in the world and majestically towering above is Ama Dablam. Here your
efforts will be truly rewarded as our experienced and knowledgable guides
point out the classic routes to the summit of Mount Everest. We visit the
famous school that was built and funded by Sir Edmund Hillary. As we ascend
higher to our destination of Gokyo we pass a series of 5 high altitude blue
lakes which will take your breath away with their beauty. On our descent we
return to our final destination of Lukla for the traditional end of trek
party and a spectacular return flight to Kathmandu where we will spend 3
days exploring this fascinating city. This trip is truly an adventure to
remember.
INCLUDED:
-
23-Day Fully escorted camping
trek All meals included
-
Internal flights:
-
5 nights in one of Kathmandu's
*** Hotels
-
1/2 day sightseeing in
Kathmandu
-
Fully escorted trek with
experienced Aust. group leader
-
English Speaking
Nepalese Sirdar
-
Arrival and departure
transfers
-
Twin share accommodation in
Kathmandu and b'fast
-
All meals whilst on trek
-
High Altitude Chamber is
carried on all treks above 3000mtrs
-
Comprehensive medical kit
-
Trekking permit and National
Park Fees
NOT INCLUDED:
-
International Airfare
-
Visas $30
-
Airport Departure taxes/Excess
baggage charges
-
Other meals not stated
(Lunch/Dinner Kathmandu) allow $20 per day
-
Items of personal nature ie.
Soft/hard drinks, tips etc.
-
Travel Insurance (this is a
mandatory condition of booking)
-
Medical evacuation in case of
emergency
-
Spending money required
approx. $300
ANNAPURNA ADVENTURE
10 Day Lodge Trek - 5 Nights
Pokhara - 8 day Camping Trek - 5 nights Kathmandu - 2 Nights Royal Chitwan
National Park LAND CONTENT COST……………US$980
This is an introductory trek geared towards those people who have always
wanted to experience trekking in the Himalayas without the hard work
associated with high altitude trekking. This trek is suitable for anyone who
is generally fit and healthy, regardless of age. A typical day on the trail
begins with a steaming hot cup of tea and a lovely Nepalese smile before
tucking into a big hearty breakfast. Most days would include walking "a
little bit up and a little bit down" where a maximum altitude of
approximately 3,300m is attained.
1st Feb Day 1 |
Arrive Kathmandu airport
12.30pm you will be met by the staff from my agency in Kathmandu.
Transfer to the very friendly family owned Karma Hotel. Tonight you will
meet your guide and Sherpas for the trek.O/N |
02 Feb Day 2 |
The following morning you
will be taken on a 1/2 sightseeing tour of the many holy temples and
interesting surrounding sights of Kathmandu including the Sacred
Pashupatinath Temple and Nepal's oldest city, Bhaktapur. A visit to the
headquarters of KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Programme) is
also included. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the many
shops and bazaars and eating-houses of Kathmandu. O/N |
03 Feb Day 3 |
Transfer by Tourist Coach
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 your trek |
4th Feb Day 4
|
On your first day in Pokhara
a tour will be arranged for you to visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp and
Devi Falls. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
You may wish to do some last minute shopping for your trek or pack your
kitty bag for the following day's departure. O/N |
5th Feb Day 5
|
This morning you will drive
to the start of your 10-day 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 (InnKeeper), whilst
he spins you yarns about life in Nepal. The altitudes of this trek vary
between about 915m at Pokhara to approx.3300m at Ghorepani, going up and
down will test the best pair of knees. The secret is, take it SLOWLY! |
14th Feb Day 14
|
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. |
15th Feb Day 15
|
Free Day Pokhara |
SIKLIS 8 DAY CAMPING TREK
16th - 23th Feb Day 16
|
23 Rough and wild this trek
cuts through less traveled country south of Annapurna II & Lamjung Himal
massif. It boasts fantastic mountain views and as it is a more "off the
beaten track" than
other treks we will see very few other trekkers. It is a spectacular
short trek and traverses a variety of terrains from low land villages
and rice terraces up to Nepal's largest Ghurkha village at 3,000m. After
trekking for 8 days we head back to Pokhara for 1 night |
24th - 25th Feb Day 24 |
25 This morning you will
take an early bus for your 4-hour drive to Royal Chitwan National Park.
This is reward indeed as you spoil yourself with 2 night's stay at
Chitwan where the spirit of the great
explorer-adventurers live on. Here, from atop an elephant, you can
search for the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and the endangered Great
one-horned rhino, which roams the jungle together with leopards, sloth
bears, bison and many more wildlife species. Hidden deep in the swamps
are rare crocodiles and freshwater dolphins, which can be spotted when
we journey down the River Rapti by traditional dugout canoe. Meanwhile
back at the "Gol Ghar" Round House we can relate our day's adventures in
front of the campfire surrounded by jungle sounds and good company. |
26th Feb Day 26 |
This morning you will depart
early for your 6-hour bus ride to the capital of Nepal - Kathmandu
arriving late afternoon O/N |
27th Feb 28th -Day 27 |
28 The next 2 days are yours
to explore the many shops and bazaars and eating houses of Kathmandu.or
you may wish to lake an optional scenic flight over Mt Everest. This is
at an extra cost of approx. US$105 and is highly recommended as the
"flight" of a lifetime. Whatever you decide to do in Kathmandu it is
guaranteed to be a buzz!! |
Day 29 |
Early this morning you will
transfer to the airport for you return flight to Bangkok and transfer to
Sydney 1st March |
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
-
Airport transfers, 1/2 day
sightseeing tour of Kathmandu All Coach
transport
-
4 ngts Accom Kathmandu in
Hotel Karma centrally located and safe hotel 5
ngts Pokhara Lakeside
-
10 Day Lodge Trek All meals
and accommodation
-
08 Day Camping trek all meals
camping equipment porters
All park permits Qualified English Speaking Nepalese Guide and Porters to
carry your kit bag 2 Nights Accommodation at Chitwan (outside the park)
NOT INCLUDED:
Items of personal nature
ie. Soft/hard drinks, tips etc. Travel Insurance
(this is a mandatory condition of booking) Medical evacuation in case of
emergency
TASTE OF NEPAL 9-24 March 2002
8 DAY TREK - 3 NIGHTS POKHARA -3 NIGHTS KATHMANDU
2 NIGHTS CHITWAN WILDLIFE RESERVE US$1080
If you have always had the desire to visit Nepal but thought
the treks were too long and hard then this is the trip for you. On this trip
we incorporate a short but spectacular trek, and a visit to Nepal's famous
Royal Chitwan National Park!
Our adventure begins when you arrive at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan airport and
transfer to our 45-minute flight to Pokhara. After arriving at the beautiful
family-owned Tibetan Hotel in Pokhara your afternoon will be free to explore
this friendly easy going town or just relax at the hotel after your journey.
The following morning a tour will be arranged for you to visit the Tibetan
Refugee Camp and Devi Falls. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at
your leisure. You may wish to do some last minute shopping for your trek or
pack your kitty bag for the following day's departure.
Rough and wild this trek cuts through less travelled country south of
Annapurna II & Lamjung Himal massif. It boasts fantastic mountain views and
as it is a more "off the beaten track" than other treks we will see very few
other trekkers. It is a spectacular short trek and traverses a variety of
terrains from low land villages and rice terraces up to Nepal's largest
Ghurkha village at 3,000m.
After trekking for 8 days we head back to Pokhara for 2 night before driving
down to begin our safari in the Royal Chitwan National Park. This is reward
indeed as we spoil ourselves with 2 night's stay in the heart of the Chitwan
Jungle where the spirit of the great explorer-adventurers lives on. Here,
from atop an elephant, we can search for the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and
the endangered Great one-horned rhino, which roams the jungle together with
leopards, sloth bears, bison and many many more wildlife species. Hidden
deep in the swamps are rare crocodiles and freshwater dolphins, which can be
spotted when we journey down the River Rapti by traditional dugout canoe.
Meanwhile back at the "Gol Ghar" Round House we can relate our day's
adventures in front of the campfire surrounded by jungle sounds and good
company.
We spend 2 nights in the Reserve before driving to Kathmandu. The remainder
of your stay in Kathmandu you will be taken on a sightseeing tour of the
many holy temples and interesting surrounding sights of Kathmandu including
the Sacred Pashupatinath Temple and Nepal's oldest city, Bhaktapur. A visit
to the headquarters of KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Programme) is
also included. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the many shops
and bazaars and eating-houses of Kathmandu. The following day an optional
scenic flight over Mt Everest can be arranged. This is at an extra cost of
approx. $140 and is highly recommended as the "flight" of a lifetime.
Whatever you decide to do in Kathmandu it is guaranteed to be a buzz!
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
-
8 Day Camping Trek
-
1/2 day sightseeing tour of
Kathmandu Internal flights and Bus Transfers
-
3 ngts B&B Kathmandu (twin
share - single suppl.extra 3 ngts B&B Pokhara
(twin share - single suppl. extra) 2 ngts Royal Chitwan Jungle Reserve all
meals incl.
-
All meals whilst on trek All
camping equipment
-
All park permits Qualified
Nepalese and Australian Guides
NOT INCLUDED:
-
International Airfare Visas
US$ 30 Airport Departure taxes/Excess baggage
charges
-
Other meals not stated Items
of personal nature ie. Soft/hard drinks, tips
etc.
Travel Insurance (this is
a mandatory condition of booking) Medical
evacuation in case of emergency
Manirimdu festival one starting from Jiri and other
start at Lukla.
EVEREST Gokyo 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, colourful festivals and
monasteries. The Sagarmatha National Park is rich with flora and fauna, but
the existence of the yeti remains a mystery.
Mani Rimdu: (Tengboche and Chiwang) Mani Rimdu, a very important festival to
the Sherpas, falls on the full moon day of Tibetan ninenth month
(October/November/December). The three day celebrations of Mani Rimdu follow
the ten-day non-stop prayer sessions addressed to the parton deities -
seeking " blessing for the good of all mainkind". The portagoniest of all is
Guru Rimpoche, the founder of Vajrayan Buddism in Tibet. Masked Lamas of
Khumbu region perform various religious rituals amidts dancing and singing.
ITINERARY:
This itinerary is intended
as a working guide only and is subject to variation as a result of weather,
local conditions, government
restrictions, or any other reason beyond the control of Langtang Ri
trekking. We reserve the right to alter (lengthen or shorten) any trek at
any time if this is necessary.
Kathmandu – Jiri – Namche Bazar – Gokyo –
Kalapattar– Lukla – Kathmandu
US$ 1332
08 Oct Day 01 |
Arrive Kathmandu: You will
be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel, the Vaishali, or
similar. Evening pre-trek briefing. |
09 Oct 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. |
10 Oct Day 03 |
Kathmandu - Jiri : Drive to
Jiri, 187 km from Kathmandu. |
11 Oct: Day 04 |
Jiri – Deorali: The trek
begins with a steady climb through cultivated fields and tiny Tamang
villages. Climbing diagonally, we cross forested areas and open pasture
land, before again descending to Shivalaya.
>From here it's a steady climb to the top of the Deorali pass (3000 m)
where
we spend the night. |
12 Oct Day 05 |
Deorali - Sete : From
Deorali, it's a short walk to the Sherpa village of Bhandar, which is
littered with prayer walls and small gompas (Buddhist temples.)
Descending to the valley floor at the riverside town of Kenja, the trail
climbs steeply up a ridge richly forested with oak and rhododendron to
Sete (2575m) whose beautiful hilltop monastery is worth a visit. |
13 October Day 6
Sete - Junbesi |
We climb through fragrant
pine and oak forest to the Lamjura pass (3500 m) for our first glimpse
of Everest. Then it's downhill again to the large Sherpa village of
Junbesi. From here there are good views of Gaurishankar, Numbur Himal
and Dudh Kunda. |
14 Oct Day 7
Junbesi - Nuntala |
From here we walk up the
Solung ridge, from where Everest is again visible and then descend to
Ringmo Khola, ringed with apple orchards. The trail crosses the
Traksindo La (3071m) before descending once again through the forest to
Nuntala. |
15 Oct Day 8 Nuntala - Khari
Khola |
From Nuntala the descent
continues to Dudh Kosi (milk river) the largest river on the trek. Then
ascend through several Sherpa and Rai villages, terraced fields and
forest to the spread out village of Khari Khola. |
16 Oct Day 9
Khari Khola - Puiyan |
The path ascends through
Sherpa villages and a forest inhabited by monkeys, and then winds
steeply up and down through the Dudh Koshi canyon to Puiyan. |
17 Oct Day 10
Puiyan - 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 other people at
Phakding who are flying to Lukla to join the group. |
18 Oct: Day 11
|
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. |
19 Oct: Day 12 |
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 check post (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. |
20 Oct Day 13
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. |
21 to 22 Oct Day 14/15
in Tengboche |
We enjoy the Manirimdu
festival (The festival date can be changed due to any circumstances) in
beautiful Tengboche. |
23 Oct Day 16
Tengboche - Phortse |
Tengboche Monastery,
spiritual center for Sherpas, where about 40 Tibetan Buddhist monks are
in residence. The view of Everest's summit is particularly striking here
in the late afternoon alpenglow. We head to Pangboche (12,600'), the
Khumbu's highest year-round settlement, which houses the Khumbu's oldest
monastery. We continue across scenic trails to the tranquil village of
Phortse at the mouth of the Gokyo Valley for Overnight. |
24 Oct Day 17 Dole |
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. |
25 Oct - Day 18
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. |
26 Oct - Day 19
|
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. |
27 Oct - Day 20
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 a
nameless peak 5800m overlooking the two lakes. |
28 Oct: Day 21
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. |
29 Oct: Day 22
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, negotiate the ice fall at the end of it and
descend via Leisyasa to our camp at Dzonglha Kharka 4730 m, a high
altitude summer pasture
directly beneath the north wall of Cholatse Peak 6440 m. |
30 Oct Day 23
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. |
31 Oct Day 24
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. |
01 Nov Day 25
Spare day |
Spare Day Or Excurssion 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. |
02 Nov Day 26
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. |
03 Nov Day 27 |
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. |
04 Nov Day 28
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)
Leaving
Pangboche the route descends past some magnificently carved mani stones
to the Imja Khola which we cross via a steel suspension bridge high
above the river at a spot where it rushes through a narrow cleft. From
there we have a gentle climb to the tiny village of Debache past mani
walls deep
in a rhododendron forest. From Debache we have a short steep climb to
Thyangboche through a forest of birches conifers and rhododendrons.
Because of the ban on hunting at Thyangboche there is much wildlife in
this area. we may see almost tame blood pheasants, Napal's national bird
the Himalayan
monal or ipeyan pheasnt, snow pigeons and red billed choughs (they will
pinch any food you leave lying around ). A visit to the monastery is a
must. The singular beauty of Ama Dablam, standing isolated from all
other mountains provides a spectacular backdrop and reminder of the
height of Himalayan peaks. |
05 NOv Day 29 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. |
06 Nov Day 30
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 great fun !! |
07 Nov Day 31 |
Fly to Kathmandu. Transfer
to Hotel, and then free time in Kathmandu. |
08 Nov Day 32
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. |
09 Nov Day 33 |
End of Ulitmate Everest Trek
End of Sherpaland Ultimate Everest Trek in Kathmandu. |
Cost Includes:
All land and
domestic air transfer as per itinerary
-
Arrival and departure
transfers
-
Twin share accommodation in
Kathmandu and b'fast as per itinerary
-
Internal flights
-
1/2 day sightseeing in
Kathmandu
-
All accommodation and 3 meals
while on the trek in Tea Houses
-
Fully escorted trek with
English speaking guide and 1 porter between each 2
person
-
Trekking permit and National
Park Fees
-
Wages, equipment, insurance
and other facilities to staffs
Not Incuded:
-
International Airfare
-
Visas US$30
-
Airport Departure taxes/Excess
baggage charges
-
Other meals not stated
(Lunch/Dinner Kathmandu) allow $20 per day
-
Items of personal nature ie.
Soft/hard drinks, tips etc.
-
Travel Insurance (this is a
mandatory condition of booking)
-
Medical evacuation in case of
emergency
-
Personal spending money
|