15
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The group flights are scheduled to arrive into Kathmandu this afternoon. Free airport transfers are available for any flight, provided you have supplied your flight details to Exodus in advance and requested transfers. A representative will meet you at the airport and you will be transferred to the hotel. There are no activities planned today so if making your own travel arrangements, you can arrive at any time. Upon arrival to the hotel please look out for a noticeboard in the reception area with details of where and when to meet for your welcome briefing this evening. There is an Exodus desk in the hotel lobby should you require any assistance. *Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)*
Leaving the Kathmandu Valley we have a long drive ahead (approx. 7-8 hours) - the road condition is poor and so we use jeeps. We drive out of the Kathmandu Valley and head northwards to Trisuli Bazaar. Continuing on, the road climbs to Dhunche and the Langtang National Park before descending to the river where we reach Syabrubensi, a small town at 1,462m where we spend the night. *Teahouse*
We begin our trek by descending to the river, which we cross by bridge. We then have a steep climb away from the river to Kanjim, where we have lunch. Climbing further, the trail contours around into the main Langtang Valley. We have wonderful views ahead and down to the river. We end today with a short descent to Sherpagoan, a small village perched on terraces high above the Langtang Khola at 2,490m. *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 11
Distance in Miles: 7
Activity Hours: 6.5-7
We continue up the valley towards Langtang. The walk starts off easily, following an undulating trail through Sherpagoan and into the forest, past Rimche and further on to Lama Hotel; a collection of lodges in a forest clearing. The trail undulates up further through the forest with glimpses of the mountains ahead. We pass Riverside and have lunch a little further on at Chhunama. In the afternoon we have a shorter walk, uphill mostly, to Ghora Tabela (3,035m), where the valley starts to open out. Most of the area around here was destroyed in the earthquake and lodges are just now being rebuilt. *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 13
Distance in Miles: 8
Activity Hours: 6
The valley now opens out as we continue our climb. The trail ascends through the few tea houses at Thangshyap and we come to the moraine that was Langtang. Langtang village was destroyed in the earthquake of 2015 and was covered by rock and ice moraine. A path now leads across the moraine, a poignant and sad reminder of the power of nature. Once across the moraine we come to a few newly built lodges and a memorial to those who lost their lives in this valley in the earthquake. Climbing out of Langtang we pass the small settlement of Mundu. The valley opens out now to reveal spectacular mountain views. To our left the impressive Langtang Lirung towers directly above us and ahead is the great snow-covered bulk of Ganchempo. The trail climbs steadily past many prayer walls until at 3,880m we come to the teahouses at Kyanjin Gompa. Once there was only a small cheese factory here but now it is a bustling place with many lodges. *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 13
Distance in Miles: 8
Activity Hours: 6-6.5
We spend a day at Kyanjin Gompa with a chance to explore the area. There are various optional day walks around here. The most popular walk is up to Kyanjin Ri (4,350m) and Kyimoshung Ri (4,620m). These two viewpoints above Kyanjin Gompa offer some of the most stunning mountain views in Nepal. An impressive array of peaks surrounds us - Langtang Lirung and Kyimoshung, whose huge glaciers tumble to the valley floor. Straddling the Tibetan border are Dorje Lhakpa, Ganchempo and a whole host of 6,000+m peaks whilst across the valley are Naya Kang and the Ganja La pass. For the very energetic there is the chance to climb Tsergo Ri (often written Cherko Ri) – at 4,984m. This is a full day's walk (8-10hrs) but worth it for the views from the top. Another option is to walk towards the Tibetan border and Langshisha, where we get wonderful views of the mountains bordering Tibet. *Teahouse*
Activity Hours: 8-10
A long day in terms of kilometres but an easy walk, mainly downhill, with great views down the valley. We leave Kyanjin and retrace our route down past Mundu and across the moraine of Langtang to Ghora Tabela. Heading back into the forest the trail undulates down the valley through Chhunuma and Riverside back to Lama Hotel (2,500m), a small collection of lodges in the forest. *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 21
Distance in Miles: 13
Activity Hours: 6.5-7
Below Lama Hotel we leave the trail we walked up the valley on and turn off steeply to the left. A rough rocky and narrow trail takes us steeply down to the river and a bridge across the Langtang Khola (2,150m). From here the trail undulates through the forest to Bamboo (1,917m) and further on to Pairo (1,700m) for lunch. After lunch we leave the river and climb steeply for an hour to a small tea shop. From here the trail contours round into a side valley and drops to cross the river by bridge. We then have another steep climb up to Syabru, a village which straddles a ridge (2,250m). There are great views looking back to the Langtang Valley and from just behind the lodges we can see the Ganesh Himal on a clear day. *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 12
Distance in Miles: 8
Activity Hours: 6.5-7
A short but quite tough walk as we have a long steep climb out of Syabru. We walk through scrub forest and the occasional settlement among the fields, and then through magnificent rhododendron thickets until we reach the top of the ridge at Phoprang Danda,(3,200m), where we have magnificent views of the mountains. After a well-deserved tea break the trail continues on up the ridge, but less steeply now, to the small settlement of Sing Gompa. There are a few lodges here, a small temple and a cheese factory. Red Pandas have been spotted in the forests around here and in the afternoon the energetic can walk up the hill behind the lodge for views on a clear day. *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 7
Distance in Miles: 4
Activity Hours: 5
Today is probably the best day of the trek for amazing panoramic mountain views. Climbing a little less steeply this morning we follow the ridge for most of the day. We will have fantastic panoramic views of the Annapurnas, Himalchuli, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal to the west and Langtang Himal to the north-east. We pass through Cholang Pati (3,620m), where there are a few tea shops and after this we gradually leave the trees behind. Climbing further up the ridge the views are even better as we reach Laurebeneyak (3,950m). We stop for lunch at one of the lodges here with plenty of time to admire the magnificent panorama. In the afternoon we climb further up the ridge and finally we contour round into the next valley. A fantastic path high above the first of the holy lakes. The trail undulates now until we finally reach the third lake, Gosainkund, at 4,430m. This lake is particularly sacred and a place of pilgrimage in the summer. It is said to have been created when the god Shiva, suffering from thirst due to a poison, thrust his trident into the mountainside, whereupon three streams burst forth and ran together to form the lake. We stay close to a shrine by the lake, where there are a few pilgrim shelters. As the sun sets the reflection on the lake is incredible as the lake becomes one shimmering mass of gold. It is a truly magnificent sight. (Please note that in spring season there can be snow on this section) *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 9
Distance in Miles: 6
Activity Hours: 6.5
A tough day today as we cross the Laurebena Pass. The trail descends from the lodge past the pilgrim shelters to the lake. We then climb up though bare and rugged terrain, passing four smaller lakes before we reach the summit of the Laurebena Pass at 4,650m. It will take us approximately 2.5hrs to the top of the pass. There are magnificent views to the north and west, and as we descend there are superb panoramic vistas over the Nepal midlands. We now have a steep descent for about 2.5hrs on a rocky trail to Phedi, where we have lunch. After lunch, we still have another 3.5hrs walk. At first, we descend a little but the rest of the afternoon takes us on a roller coaster trail up and down the valley. There are many short steep uphill sections followed by short downhill sections. We are now back in the forest and we finally come to our lodge at Gopte (3,416m). *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 13
Distance in Miles: 8
Activity Hours: 8-8.5
A long day but mostly downhill. The morning starts with a short downhill and then a climb up to Tharepati (3,650m). The climb is well worth the effort for the amazing views from here. Looking north we can see the Jugal and Everest Himals and on a really clear day we can see right across to Everest. After a short break to admire the views we start to descend into the Helambu valley. We continue walking on an undulating path through thick rhododendron forest with a short climb up to lunch at Mangangoth. After lunch it is all the way down to our last night in a teahouse at Kutumsang. There are fine views back to the Langtang and Jugal Himals, and if it is clear other ranges can also be seen. *Teahouse*
Distance in Km: 16
Distance in Miles: 10
Activity Hours: 7.5-8
We leave early this morning and start by descending from Kutumsang down into the valley below. The walk should take us about 4hrs through farms and terraces to the valley bottom at 1,040m. We will meet our transport at Chunauti and from here we drive through Melamchi and back to Kathmandu (approx. 5 hours’ drive). Depending on traffic we should arrive to our hotel in the early evening. *Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)*
Distance in Km: 14
Distance in Miles: 9
Activity Hours: 4
After the long day yesterday we have a free day to explore Kathmandu. You may want to visit the Durbar Square of Kathmandu, the Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath, the Hindu temple at Pashupatinath or the monkey temple at Swayambhunath. The Thamel District is a good place to explore with its maze of shops and restaurants. There is also the opportunity today to take an early morning scenic Everest mountain flight. This can be booked and paid for locally by your leader. Please read the ‘Optional Excursions’ section below for information regarding flying in Nepal. *Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)*
The tour ends after breakfast. The group flight is a day flight scheduled to depart in the morning. Those on the group flights or who have booked a transfer through Exodus will be transferred to the airport.
* 3 nights standard hotels and 11 nights teahouses
* 10 days point-to-point walking with full porterage
* Group normally 4 to 14 plus tour leader and local staff. Min. age 16 yrs
* Altitude maximum 4610m (optional 4984m), average 2740m
* Travel by private minibus
* Between 5 and 8 hours walking per day, with some longer days
* Staff carry oxygen and a first aid kit on trek
* 8 November 2020 and 28 November 2021 departures to be led by Valerie
Parkinson
Breakfast is included throughout the trip.
In the teahouses breakfast will comprise of a choice of bread (a slice of
toast, chapatti or Tibetan bread), a choice of egg (boiled, fried or
omelette), and a choice between either muesli or porridge each day. Hot
tea/coffee will also be served. On specific days, there will not be a choice
for breakfast and either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans
and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey will be served - these options are not
available in all teahouses and so we have only included them in locations
where they can be guaranteed.
Lunch will be taken at a teahouse en route - sometimes one of your guides
will go ahead with the group's order to make it more expedient. Dinner will
be in the same teahouse that you sleep at (this is custom in Nepal as
teahouses base their room rate on it).
Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably
extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese
dhal bhat to pizza and apple pie. Dhal bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and
comes in many different forms but generally comprises some curried lentil
dhal and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular
snack is momos; a type of Nepalese dumpling, fried or steamed, filled with
meat or vegetables.
Although meat is available in the teahouses, we advise against eating it on
trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for
several days before reaching the lodges and can cause stomach upsets or
illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money - we recommend
using hand sanitiser.
If you have a gluten free diet, then we strongly recommend you bring some
extra food and snacks with you to supplement the food on trek as there will
be little variety available for you, particularly for breakfast. Even many of
the soups are powdered and contain gluten. Gluten free breakfast options will
be limited to vegetable fried rice and a choice of egg, and on specific days
only, a trekkers breakfast (without the toast / with an extra egg) will be
served. Breakfast options for vegans will be limited to a choice of
muesli/porridge with water each day, and on specific days only, a trekkers
breakfast (without the egg), or vegetable fried rice will be served. If you
are lactose intolerant as opposed to vegan then the same will apply although
you will also have a choice of egg each day.
If you buy imported food and drink whilst on trek you will spend more than
the suggested amount.
*Drinking Water*
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but
particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at
least 3-4 litres per person per day.
We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this
contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal’s trekking
areas.
The lodge at Kyanjin has a UV water filter (donated by Exodus) and you will
be provided with safe drinking water free of charge here.
The teahouses sell boiled water for approx. Rs150-300 per litre (the price
increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is
also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle.
Alternatively, all teahouses will provide cold water free of charge, if
requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you
bring a reusable bottle (or two) and use an effective form of water
treatment. There are a wide range of products available these days which are
more effective than traditional purification tablets - we recommend talking
to an outdoor retailer for the latest advice as technologies are improving
all the time: make sure to check the product’s performance in cold/freezing
conditions and consider battery life (lithium batteries are best in cold
conditions).
Handheld UV filters such as a ‘SteriPEN’ are widely available to purchase
from online retailers such as Amazon and Ebay – they’re very effective,
can treat 1 litre of water in a couple of minutes and the water is ready
immediately – look for lightweight lithium battery models and remember that
you will need to bring a wide-mouthed bottle (e.g. Nalgene) for use with
these devices.
There are also an array of water filter and purifier bottles on the market
but be wary of their weight, bottles with a small capacity and the products
performance in freezing conditions. Exodus has partnered with Water-to-Go, a
filtration system that eliminates over 99.99% of all microbiological
contaminants from any non-salt water source – please visit
https://watertogo.eu/exodus/"
target="_blank">Water-to-Go for more information*. Exodus customers can claim
15% off your first order, and better still, 15% of the purchase value will be
donated to the **Exodus Travels Foundation [1]**.* Please note that if the
water freezes it will clog up the filter – in this event, defrost before
use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
[1] node/211076
* 3 nights standard hotels and 11 nights teahouses
* 10 days point-to-point walking with full porterage
* Group normally 4 to 14 plus tour leader and local staff. Min. age 16 yrs
* Altitude maximum 4610m (optional 4984m), average 2740m
* Travel by private minibus
* Between 5 and 8 hours walking per day, with some longer days
* Staff carry oxygen and a first aid kit on trek
* 8 November 2020 and 28 November 2021 departures to be led by Valerie
Parkinson
The Langtang & Gosainkund Lakes trek is a moderate to challenging (Activity
Level 4) teahouse trek covering a range of altitudes. Please read a
description of our Activity Levels [1], found on our website. It involves
ten days point-to-point walking. There are prolonged ascents and descents on
some days (more than 1000m). Because of the ascents and descents and the
rocky trails, this trek is at the higher end of a grade 4. It is graded as
level 4 and therefore a lower level than Everest Base Camp as it does not go
above 5,000m. We highly recommend using trekking poles. For those with
previous walking experience, it is a superb trek through the middle hills of
Nepal to the top of the Langtang Valley, an area surrounded by the huge
mountains bordering Tibet.
It is suitable for those confident of their physical fitness, ideally with
some previous trekking experience. If you do not partake in regular exercise
or hillwalking then you should do some training or physical preparation
beforehand. You may find our
https://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Training_Guide.pdf"
target="_blank"Walking & Trekking Fitness Training Guide a useful reference.
The trail crosses a few modern suspension bridges, all of which have mesh
sides and none are especially high, however, anyone with a strong fear of
heights or vertigo may find them difficult.
The maximum altitude reached is 4,610m (4,984m for those who opt to climb
Tsergo Ri), with the average altitude being approx. 2,740m. The ascent is
gradual, lending itself to good acclimatisation. We ask you to refer to the
Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes for further information.
The departure starting in Kathmandu on 8 November 2020 will be led by Valerie
Parkinson who has been leading Himalayan treks for Exodus for over 30 years.
To help you better prepare for your Nepal holiday, please also see our
Nepal"https://www.exodus.co.uk/sites/exod/files/2020_nepal_destination_guide.p...
Destination Guide.
* Why Trek with Exodus?*
• Over 30 years’ experience of organising treks in Nepal.
• 'Ask an expert' - talk to Exodus office staff who have done the treks
themselves.
• Experienced English-speaking local leaders who are qualified in
wilderness first aid and trained in recognising and dealing with altitude
sickness.
• One of the highest staff to client ratios on trek - 1 staff member: 4
clients.
• All staff (leaders, guides and porters) are fully insured and paid a fair
wage.
• Carefully planned ascent rates and itineraries with built-in
acclimatisation and contingency days.
• Staff carry oxygen and a first aid kit.
• Self-assessment AMS cards used to monitor every client at altitude.
[1] node/714
Hotels and lodges (teahouses)
This holiday spends three nights in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu and
eleven nights on trek in basic lodges (teahouses).
In Kathmandu we usually stay at the Hotel Royal Singi, located within walking
distance of the Thamel district. All rooms have en suite facilities and there
is a restaurant, a bar and an outdoor courtyard. There is complimentary Wi-Fi
in the hotel lobby and Wi-Fi codes are available from reception for the
rooms. There is an Exodus desk in the hotel reception area and an Exodus
representative will usually be available daily in the mornings and evenings.
The teahouses are basic but adequate; please be realistic about what to
expect in the mountains.
The lodges in Lama Hotel, Gosainkund and Gopte belong to the National Park
and are not privately owned. Because of this they are not as well-kept, and
the standard is lower than that of the other lodges we use unfortunately they
are the only options in these locations.
The hub of the teahouse is the dining room, usually decorated with colourful
traditional rugs, sometimes with a stove or heater (some lodges charge a fee
to put the heater on). All teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as
tissues, soap and toilet paper. Most lodges have electricity but it is not
wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch
is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in
the dining room (charged at approx. Rs150-350 per hour per device). Please
note that many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough
electricity for charging. Many lodges have Wi-Fi these days – in some areas
it works well but in others it is slow and temperamental.
The bedrooms are mostly twin-share but occasionally during peak seasons you
may be asked to share a dormitory room (3-5 people max) for the odd night.
Beds with foam mattresses, bedsheets and a pillow are provided. Bedrooms are
generally unheated and can get cold at night so you will need to bring or
hire a sleeping bag.
Most lodges have only one or two basic toilets and sometimes these are
located outside the main lodge building. Toilets are usually Asian
’squat’ style; although many lodges have now installed ‘western
style’ seated ones. Toilet paper is not provided so you should bring your
own or buy it locally (please dispose of it the bin provided – do not put
it in the bowl). If there is not a flush handle, there should be a container
of water to pour down – if it is empty (or frozen) please either refill it
or ask the lodge to.
Some lodges now have gas or solar hot showers (charged at approx. Rs250-500
per shower) but don’t expect them every night. Sometimes a hot shower is
simply a bucket of hot water and not a shower head.
Standards of cleanliness vary especially in the peak trekking season and in
winter when the water freezes at night. Please report any problems to your
leader or the lodge and be vigilant in your personal hygiene regime – use
soap or hand sanitizer gel before and after toilet breaks, snacks and meal
times.
As a general rule, the higher altitude you go to, the more basic the lodges
and the more expensive food and services become.
*Extra Accommodation*
If you require any additional accommodation in Kathmandu either before or
after the tour, we can book this for you (subject to availability), please
enquire with your Sales Consultant.
*Single Accommodation*
If you prefer your own room, we offer a single supplement for the hotel
nights in Kathmandu only (subject to availability). While in the tea-houses,
single rooms cannot be guaranteed but if a single room is available that
night, you can pay locally on a day by day basis.
TWIN ROOM KATHMANDU HOTEL ROYAL SINGI
The group will generally be between 4 and 14 people.
We have representatives in Kathmandu who will look after your transfers to
and from the airport and will be around to answer other questions you may
have about your trek. There is an Exodus desk and noticeboard in the Royal
Singi Hotel in Kathmandu. The desk is manned morning and evening.
The departures starting in Kathmandu on 8th November 2020 and 28th November
2021 will be led by Valerie Parkinson who has been leading treks in the
Himalaya for over 30 years. Valerie was the first British woman to summit
Mount Manaslu, the world's eights highest mountain. She will share her
mountaineering experience, including talking about her own Everest summit
expedition and Everest North Col Expedition with you along the way!
All other departures will have an English-speaking Nepali Tour Leader
throughout the trip who will be assisted by Nepali Trekking Guides. All
Exodus leaders are highly experienced and as well as Exodus leader training
courses they are all trained in wilderness first aid. The trekking guides are
licensed by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and also
receive additional training through Exodus.
On all of our Nepal treks, there will be one member of trek staff for every
four clients - this ratio may change if for any reason a guide has to stay
behind with a member of the group. The leaders are assisted by additional
guides and as many porters as necessary to carry the kitbags. All your main
gear is carried for you and you only have to carry whatever you require for
that day's trek. Porters are given porter clothing for treks above 4,500m
(windproof jacket and trousers, boots, socks, gloves, hats, sunglasses). All
the trekking staff are insured by our local partner in Nepal.
The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note that anyone
aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent
or legal guardian.
Breakfast is included throughout the trip.
In the teahouses breakfast will comprise of a choice of bread (a slice of
toast, chapatti or Tibetan bread), a choice of egg (boiled, fried or
omelette), and a choice between either muesli or porridge each day. Hot
tea/coffee will also be served. On specific days, there will not be a choice
for breakfast and either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans
and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey will be served - these options are not
available in all teahouses and so we have only included them in locations
where they can be guaranteed.
Lunch will be taken at a teahouse en route - sometimes one of your guides
will go ahead with the group's order to make it more expedient. Dinner will
be in the same teahouse that you sleep at (this is custom in Nepal as
teahouses base their room rate on it).
Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably
extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese
dhal bhat to pizza and apple pie. Dhal bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and
comes in many different forms but generally comprises some curried lentil
dhal and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular
snack is momos; a type of Nepalese dumpling, fried or steamed, filled with
meat or vegetables.
Although meat is available in the teahouses, we advise against eating it on
trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for
several days before reaching the lodges and can cause stomach upsets or
illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money - we recommend
using hand sanitiser.
If you have a gluten free diet, then we strongly recommend you bring some
extra food and snacks with you to supplement the food on trek as there will
be little variety available for you, particularly for breakfast. Even many of
the soups are powdered and contain gluten. Gluten free breakfast options will
be limited to vegetable fried rice and a choice of egg, and on specific days
only, a trekkers breakfast (without the toast / with an extra egg) will be
served. Breakfast options for vegans will be limited to a choice of
muesli/porridge with water each day, and on specific days only, a trekkers
breakfast (without the egg), or vegetable fried rice will be served. If you
are lactose intolerant as opposed to vegan then the same will apply although
you will also have a choice of egg each day.
If you buy imported food and drink whilst on trek you will spend more than
the suggested amount.
*Drinking Water*
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but
particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at
least 3-4 litres per person per day.
We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this
contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal’s trekking
areas.
The lodge at Kyanjin has a UV water filter (donated by Exodus) and you will
be provided with safe drinking water free of charge here.
The teahouses sell boiled water for approx. Rs150-300 per litre (the price
increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is
also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle.
Alternatively, all teahouses will provide cold water free of charge, if
requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you
bring a reusable bottle (or two) and use an effective form of water
treatment. There are a wide range of products available these days which are
more effective than traditional purification tablets - we recommend talking
to an outdoor retailer for the latest advice as technologies are improving
all the time: make sure to check the product’s performance in cold/freezing
conditions and consider battery life (lithium batteries are best in cold
conditions).
Handheld UV filters such as a ‘SteriPEN’ are widely available to purchase
from online retailers such as Amazon and Ebay – they’re very effective,
can treat 1 litre of water in a couple of minutes and the water is ready
immediately – look for lightweight lithium battery models and remember that
you will need to bring a wide-mouthed bottle (e.g. Nalgene) for use with
these devices.
There are also an array of water filter and purifier bottles on the market
but be wary of their weight, bottles with a small capacity and the products
performance in freezing conditions. Exodus has partnered with Water-to-Go, a
filtration system that eliminates over 99.99% of all microbiological
contaminants from any non-salt water source – please visit
https://watertogo.eu/exodus/"
target="_blank"Water-to-Go for more information*. Exodus customers can claim
15% off your first order, and better still, 15% of the purchase value will be
donated to the **Exodus Travels Foundation [1]**.* Please note that if the
water freezes it will clog up the filter – in this event, defrost before
use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
[1] node/211076
For airport transfers, we use private minibuses or cars/taxis. For the
journey to Syabrubensi and from Chunauti we use jeeps as these are better
suited to negotiating the roads, which are rough, potholed and unsealed in
parts.
This point to point trekking holiday requires customers to walk between each
overnight stay under their own steam. Other forms of transport may be
available along the route (horses, jeeps etc) but Exodus is not able to take
responsibility for the safety or the cost of any transport that customers
choose to take even if provided with the assistance of our leader or staff.
*Travelling flight inclusive from London: 16 Days*
The group flight from London is an overnight flight departing the day before
Day 1 of the itinerary.
*Flights from London*
We normally use the scheduled services of Turkish Airways (depending on
availability).
As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend you call one of
our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm up‐to‐date timings.
Please note timings may change at a later date and cannot be confirmed until
approximately two weeks before departure.
*Travelling land only: 15 days starting and ending in Kathmandu*
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Kathmandu in the afternoon
of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are
provided in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks
before departure.
The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime
temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky
is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences.
Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to
around 10ºC at 3,600m and progressively lower the higher we go. Different
seasons offer different advantages for trekking.
*Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November. *This is the main trekking
season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20ºC.
Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear
mountain views. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as to
minus 5ºC at the highest altitudes.
*Winter: December to end February.* Despite the cooler conditions, this is
an ideal time to trek in Nepal. Skies are usually very clear especially in
December and the mountain views are at their best. Nights will be very cold
with temperatures down to minus 10°C at highest altitudes but days can be
pleasant and sunny. The trails are also much less busy at this time of year.
In Kathmandu, maximum daytime temperatures are 19ºC.
*Pre-monsoon: March to May.* Both day and night temperatures will be warmer
in general but often a haze will build up in the afternoons. It is very hot
in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. The Langtang
Valley is famous for its flowers (especially rhododendrons) and birds and
this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring.
Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes and
more often in spring season.
Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly
predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any
differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.
All luggage for the trek should be packed in the Exodus kitbag provided or in
a similar soft duffel bag. Many people find it easiest to pack the Exodus
kitbag inside a wheelie case which can be left in at the hotel Kathmandu free
of charge with anything not needed for the trek, whilst the kitbag will be
carried by your porter on the trek.
Each porter carries two kitbags, therefore please respectfully limit your
kitbag to 10kg maximum per person.
Many Nepalis are still traditional in the way they dress. You should,
therefore, dress conservatively. Tight, revealing clothing is not advised and
T-shirts are preferable to sleeveless tops. Long knee-length shorts are
acceptable. Trousers or a long skirt are preferable for women.
* 1 passport-sized photograph for your trekking permit (and an extra one if
getting your Nepal visa on arrival in case the electronic machines are out
of order)
* 3-4 season sleeping bag (4-season for winter departures)
* 3 season jacket
* Waterproof synthetic or leather walking boots (worn in)
* Waterproof jacket and trousers
* Gaiters (especially for spring departures)
* Trainers/sandals for the evening
* Warm hat
* Scarf/buff
* Gloves
* Several pairs of walking socks
* Tracksuit or thermals for the evening
* Mid-layer (fleece)
* Shirts/t-shirts/base layers
* Light to mid-weight trousers (warmer for winter)
* Long shorts or skirt for women
* Sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip salve with sun protection
* Daypack
* Towel
* Head torch
* Water bottle (minimum 1 litre) - with a wide mouth if using a SteriPEN
* Plastic bags (bin liners) to line daypack and for packing clothing in the
kitbag
* Toilet paper (ideally biodegradable)
* Small personal first aid kit
* Hand washing gel
* Plug adaptor
* Water treatment
* Biodegradable soap/shampoo
* Trekking pole(s)
* Micro-crampons, Microspikes, Yaktrax or similar (highly recommended for
spring departures)
Although the top end of the Langtang Valley and the Laurebena Pass are
usually clear of snow, there can be snow at any time of year especially in
the spring season. Snow can make the steep descent from the pass slippery. If
you are unsure of your footing you may like to carry a pair of Microspikes,
Yaktrax or similar with you just in case.
*Equipment hire*
There are many equipment shops in Kathmandu where you can buy much of the
above clothing. The quality does vary and cannot be guaranteed so you should
choose carefully.
The following equipment can be hired through Exodus - the equipment is good
quality and will keep you warm but it is bulky and you should take this into
account when packing due to the weight limits for both porterage and domestic
flights. Hire equipment should be requested and paid for in advance of travel
but will be provided locally in Kathmandu. Approximate hire prices are as
below:
Down jacket (approx. 1.8kgs): from £49
4-season sleeping bag (approx. 2.3 kgs): from £49
Package including a down jacket and a 4-season sleeping bag: from £56
*Donations for porters, children and the elderly*
If while packing, you find a spare bit of space in your bag then you may be
interested in donating to one of Exodus' projects. Exodus supports a Porter
Clothing Bank in Kathmandu, as well as children in local schools in Kathmandu
and various villages, and an old people's home in Kyanjin Gompa in the upper
part of the Langtang Valley. If you have any old walking gear this can be
donated to porters, and similarly, any warm clothing or blankets would be
appreciated by the old people's home - please leave these items with your
leader or at the Exodus desk at the Royal Singi Hotel. Books, stationery,
games, warm clothes/underwear etc. suitable for children aged 5-18 years
should be taken to the Ambassador Garden Home in Thamel and given to Prakash
Lammichanne. Contact No: +977 1 4700724.
You can either bring your spending money to Nepal in cash to exchange or use
a combination of cash and card withdrawals from ATMs. Most major currencies
(including Pounds Sterling, Dollars and Euros) can be exchanged in Nepal but
notes must be in good condition – torn, tatty or marked notes will not be
accepted. However, Scottish or Irish Currency cannot be changed in Nepal and
nor can travellers' cheques.
There are money change facilities at Kathmandu airport both before and after
immigration – whilst exchange rates are generally good here, it’s
worthwhile checking the fees. You sometimes get a better rate for changing
larger denomination notes. Most large hotels also offer a currency exchange
service (including the Royal Singi Hotel) and there are also countless money
changers in the Thamel area of Kathmandu. Remember to keep your exchange
receipts in case you want to change any Rupees back into hard currency when
you leave Nepal.
You will need to take out enough money in Kathmandu to last for the duration
of your trek – to cover meals, drinks, tipping and other incidentals. It is
a good idea to carry some spare cash on the trek in case of an emergency.
Carrying a large amount of cash is unavoidable so we suggest splitting it up
into a few different places - but remember to keep track of how much you have
stashed where.
It is possible to buy things like beer, soft drinks, chocolate, toilet paper
etc. from the teahouses en route. Spending habits are subjective, so it is
impossible to give an exact amount of spending money required, however as a
rough guideline, we recommend between GBP350-400 (approx. USD450-520)per
person in total (inclusive of tips, expenditure on the trek, and meals in
Kathmandu). Imported drinks and snacks are relatively expensive. Your
expenditure will be towards the top end if you buy boiled water rather than
treating cold water, and depending on how many hot showers you take, if you
pay to charge electrical devices, drink alcohol, use Wi-Fi on the trek, and
so on.
*Optional Excursions*
A number of optional tours and activities can be booked locally through your
tour leader or at the Exodus desk at the Hotel Royal Singi in Kathmandu.
Prices for a half-day Kathmandu sightseeing tour start from around GB£25
(approx. US$40) per person, based on a group of 6 and above. Return transport
and a qualified sightseeing guide are included but lunch or entry fees are
not included.
An optional Everest sightseeing flight is available on your free day (weather
permitting) from around GBP165 (USD215) per person (the price may be subject
to change). Anyone taking an internal sightseeing flight in Nepal should pay
attention to the statement 'Flying in Nepal'.
*Flying in Nepal*
The mountainous terrain in Nepal is often subject to changeable weather which
makes flying conditions complex. In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority
(CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of western
nations. The EU has chosen to highlight the relatively poor safety record in
Nepal, and as of December 2013, all Nepalese registered airlines have been
included on the EU ‘Banned list’ preventing them from flying in EU
airspace. While no Nepalese-registered airlines currently fly within the EU,
the EU have instigated this ban to encourage the CAA of Nepal to tighten its
systems governing Nepalese aviation. Flying within Nepal is, therefore, a
known risk and the current travel advice issued by the UK Foreign,
Commonwealth and Development Office provides an overview which we encourage
you to read.
In response to general concerns over this safety record, Exodus asked
independent air safety experts to visit Nepal on our behalf to assess the
suitability of the available carriers. Following these comprehensive audits
(undertaken roughly every two years), Exodus decided to restrict our use of
airlines to only those approved as part of the most recent audit. It remains
our firm policy to only use these approved carriers for our customers and
further audits will take place regularly. For emergency situations, we also
have an approved list of helicopter companies for our use.
Exodus is supportive of the EU’s move to put pressure on the CAA of Nepal
in this way. We are hopeful that, alongside our own risk control measures,
this will make a difference to all who fly in Nepal.
Tipping is very much part of the culture in Nepal and although entirely at
your discretion, it is usually expected. Often people would like to tip in
recognition of good service but are unsure how much would be appropriate in a
foreign country - for this reason, we have listed guideline amounts below
(these are intended as a guideline only and you may see fit to give more or
less depending on the service that you have received).
For the tipping of your trek staff and your tour leader, we suggest passing
an envelope for each staff member around the group so that everyone can put
in what they feel comfortable with anonymously.
*The following are /guideline/ amounts received by each staff member from
the group as a whole... *
* Tour Leader: Rs30,000 - 35,000 (usually tipped on the last night in
Kathmandu)
*Your trekking crew *(tips are usually given on the last evening of the trek
in Kutumsang):
* Head Trekking Guide and Assistant Guides: Rs20,000 - 25,000 for each guide
* Trek Porters: Rs10,000 for each porter
*General tipping guidelines: *
* Drivers: Kathmandu to Syabrubensi – Rs500 for each jeep driver. Chunauti
to Kathmandu – Rs500 for each jeep driver
* Hotel Porters: Rs100 each time for each room
* Teahouses and lunch stops on the trek: it's customary to round your bill
up to the nearest Rs50 or Rs100
* Restaurants: 10% of the bill if good service
* Travel insurance
* Single accommodation (available on request, Kathmandu only)
* Visas and vaccinations
* Sleeping bag (hire in advance from £49*)
* Down jacket (hire in advance from £49*)
* *Hire package incl. down jacket and sleeping bag from £56
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.