Nepal Expeditions 2017
Trip Overview
Nepal Expedition Overview
The Everest and Annapurna 1st Expedition Trips are both Nepal mountaineering expeditions to two of the highest peaks in the world in 2017. The Everest Expedition is a journey to the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on earth at 8,848 meters. The trip involves a challenging trek to Everest base camps, followed by several weeks of acclimatization and climbing to higher camps, before making a final push for the summit. This is a physically and mentally demanding expedition that requires technical mountaineering skills and significant preparation and training. The Annapurna 1st Expedition is a journey to the summit of Annapurna 1st, the 10th highest peak in the world at 8,091 meters. The trip involves a trek through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region, before embarking on the climb up the mountain. Climbing Annapurna 1st also requires significant physical and mental strength, as well as technical mountaineering skills. Both expeditions are guided by experienced mountaineers and support staff, who provide essential logistical support and ensure the safety of the climbers. Participants should be in excellent physical condition and have previous mountaineering experience. In addition to the mountaineering aspects of the trips, both the Everest and Annapurna 1st expeditions offer opportunities to experience the rich cultural heritage of Nepal and interact with local communities.Conclusion and Summary
Overall, these Nepal Expedition 2017 offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to test your limits and experience the majesty of some of the world's highest peaks.Trip Highlight
- Summiting the highest mountain on earth, Mt Everest.
- Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- Most Dangerous Airport in Nepal: Tenzing Hillary Airport at Lukla
- Breathtaking view of the sunset over Mt. Everest from the Kalapathar
- One of the world’s highest airports at Syangboche (3,780m / 12.402ft)
- Views of some of the highest peaks, including Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and Mt. Makalu (8,463m)
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Sagarmatha National Park
- Prayer wheels, colorful flags, mani stones, high suspension bridges
- Wide range of flora and fauna
- Ancient monastery in Tengboche (3,867m / 12,687ft)
- Khumjung monastery believed to house a yeti scalp
- Wildlife like musk deer, colorful pheasants, snow leopard, and Himalayan thar
- Highest glacier on Earth- The Khumbu Glacier (4,900m)
- Mount Annapurna Expedition I is at 8,091 meters – a 10th highest mountain of the world
- Magnificent views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Himalchuli, Machhapuchhre (FishTail), Lamjung Himal, Hiunchuli and several peaks within Annapurna Mountain Ranges.
- Explore the cultural and traditional villages, including the region’s flora and fauna in one of the most enchanting spots on Planet.
- Opportunity to gain a lifetime mountaineering experience.
Itinerary
When you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will find our company representative holding a pamphlet with your name and our company name. After greeting you, they will present you with a marigold garland as a welcome gesture and then take you to your hotel. We will organize a welcome dinner at Kathmandu with our expert expedition team.
- Overnight stay at a selected hotel (room with attached bathroom)
- Included standard meal (Welcome Dinner)
We will use this day to check the gear, equipment, and clothing required for this expedition. Our expedition guide will ensure you have all the necessary things you need before embarking on this epic expedition. Most importantly we will complete all the paper works and make necessary preparations required for Annapurna and Everest Expedition. In your free time, you can explore the Kathmandu Valley.
On your third day, you will be flying to the Everest region. After breakfast, you will head to Tribhuvan International Airport for an exciting and scenic 40-minute flight to Lukla. After getting off at Lukla, we will head to Phakding. Today’s trek will be short, easy, and enjoyable as you will also be acclimatizing. After reaching Phakding, you can visit local monasteries in and around Phakding.
- Overnight stay at Yeti Mountain Home (room with attached bathroom)
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
We leave Phakding early morning and trek along the northern banks of the Dudh Koshi River crossing many suspension bridges, including the Hillary Suspension Bridge, and reach the Sagarmatha National Park check post, where we will register our permits. Then you will be climbing through the dense forest, and, from here, you can get your first views of Mt. Everest. You will be trekking further to reach Namche Bazaar – the gateway to Everest.
- Overnight stay at Yeti Mountain Home (room with attached bathroom)
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
Today is the first day allocated for acclimatization. However, you will not be staying idle. You can explore the throbbing Namche Bazaar, known for its Wi-Fi-connected cafes and restaurants, souvenir and gear shops, clubs, and bars. Moreover, you have options to hike to Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center, the Sherpa Villages of Khunde and Khumjung, and Everest View Hotel, from where you can get fantastic views of Mount. Everest.
- Overnight stay at Yeti Mountain Home (room with attached bathroom)
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
You will leave Namche early morning and begin your trek to Tengboche, enjoying the stunning views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail, full of ups and downs, is quite challenging, but the views reward you amply. You may even spot wildlife on the way, including musk deer, pheasant, and Himalayan tahr.
As the trek progresses through dense alpine forests, you will eventually reach a small settlement called Phunki Thenga. From Phunki Thenga, you need to put some effort to reach Tengboche. Tengboche has a popular monastery called Tengboche Monastery, the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region. If we have time, we will trek to Deboche to spend the night there.
- Overnight stay at Rivendell Lodge
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
Early morning, you will leave Tengboche and take an upper trail to reach Pangboche village, passing many chortens, mani walls, and smaller high-altitude settlements. From the trails, you will get stunning views of Ama Dablam. The trek eases a bit as you enter the Imja Valley, following the Lobuche River.
Then comes the steepest climb as you near Dingboche. Dingboche consists of fields surrounded by stone walls. These walls protect crops like barley, buckwheat, and potatoes from cold wind and wild animals.
- Overnight stay in Good Luck Hotel
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
You will be acclimatizing for a second day at Dingboche, as you will have gained substantial height, so you must let your body time to adjust to the thinning air. However, you will not be staying idle. One of the favorite activities at Dingboche is to hike up the ridge above Dingboche to get superb views of several snow-capped mountains like Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Island Peak.
- Overnight stay at Good Luck Hotel
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
After early morning breakfast, we leave Dingboche aiming for Lobuche. At first, you will follow a trail that leads to a ridge above Pheriche village. Then, the trail follows the Khumbu Glacier, taking you higher to the Thukla Hills, known for the memorial statues of climbers who could not succeed in this harsh region. Your destination for this day, however, lies a little further at Lobuche.
- Overnight stay at Mother Earth House
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
From Lobuche, we continue to follow the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to arrive at Gorakshep. From Gorakshep, you will ascend to Everest Base Camp (17,598 ft./ 5,364 m). Our Sherpas will quickly set up the tent for you at Everest Base Camp (EBC). From EBC, you can enjoy stunning views of Nuptse, Khumbuste, and the Pumori mountains. We have years of experience setting up the finest heated tents with access to Wi-Fi. Our trained cooks will prepare tasty and hygienic food using local produce as well as imported foods.
- Overnight stay in a camp tent
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
You will be resting and acclimatizing at the EBC on this day. Moreover, we will be checking our equipment and gear, making them ready for the ascent to Everest Peak – the world’s highest peak.
- Overnight stay in a camp tent
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
Before the climbing starts, at an auspicious time, the Sherpas perform a special puja (worship). The Sherpas believe that mountain gods reside on the summit peaks. Hence, they perform a puja ceremony before starting the Everest climb.
For this ceremony, Sherpas set up a small furnace on a rock platform at the base camp. On the furnace, they burn juniper branches along with incense, and a monk (Lama) chants mantras (hymns) for a safe climb. Mountaineering gear and equipment are placed near the furnace for blessing. Rice is thrown up in the air three times along with the cries of Lakalu, which means victory to the gods. Sherpas view that they can climb Everest only if gods permit.
The climbing begins only after this puja.
After acclimatizing well in the base camp, the climbing begins following the Khumbu Icefall route. However, our Sherpas will already be setting the ropes and ladders for you before you progress on your climb. There are altogether four camps (excluding the base camp) on your way to the top of Everest. As you climb from one camp to another, you will find our Sherpas clearing the routes, setting up and stocking camps with supplies before you reach these camps. Throughout your climb, you will ascend and descend several times between the camps, acclimatizing and familiarizing yourself with the terrain until you reach the top.
Base Camp (5,400m) to Camp I (5,900m)
We start early from the Base Camp so that the Khumbu glacier on our path does not get time to heat up from the morning sun. This glacier is a moving glacier and contains huge crevasses and seracs. However, you need not worry much as a group of expert Sherpas maintain this path using ropes and ladders. The trail is almost flat just before Camp I.
Camp I is situated in a flat area, surrounded by mountain walls, and with a deep fissure below it. At night you might hear deep murmuring sounds due to crevasses beneath. However, it is quite warm due to the sunlight reflecting from the mountain walls. You will be acclimatizing here for a few days.
Camp I (5,900m) to Camp II (6,500m)
Camp II lies at the foot of Mt. Lhotse’s face. To reach Camp II, you need to cross the Western Cwm, a gentle undulating glacial valley. However, there are deep crevasses within, some of these crevasses have fixed ladders to cross, and others have hidden snow bridges. The snowy landscape reflects intense sun rays when the skies are clear. So you might require sunglasses. On clear days, Camp II remains warm.
Camp II (6,500m) to Camp III (7,300m)
From Camp II, lying at the foot of Lhotse, you will have to climb the Lhotse face. The path is tricky as your crampons will not readily grab on the rock-hard blue ice and packed snow. As you move forward, you will find the path consisting of lines fixed with screws and anchors, but as there are only two paths – one for ascending and the other for descending – you might face a traffic jam before reaching Camp III set on a ledge halfway up the Lhotse face.
Camp III (7,300m) to Camp IV (7,900m)
The path from Camp III is relatively easy as you pass a Yellow Band, consisting of a layer of limestone rising from the inner mountain. This portion of the route gets extremely cold before the sun rays touch the path, but once the sun rays touch the mountain, it becomes burning hot.
As you will have gained a lot of elevation, you might need to consider using oxygen. Before reaching South Col, where Camp IV is located, you will be passing the Geneva Spur, a section covered with snow and rock ice. From here, you will see the glorious and proud Mount Everest summit. South Col is the spot where Lhotse meets Everest.
Camp IV (7900m) to Everest Summit (8849m)
Generally, we rest at Camp IV (also called South Col) for a while, rehydrate ourselves and then head to the summit. Most of the climbing takes place during the night as we push ourselves to reach the summit around 7 a.m.
Our first stop from Camp IV will be a flat area called Balcony, where we rest and change our oxygen bottles. Then comes the slabs of rocks of various sizes and steepness, and due to little snow, your crampons will be ineffective here. After the slabs, we reach a steep snow slope that leads to the South Summit, which lies 500m below the actual summit. As we move further, we climb over an exposed sharp ridge to reach Hillary Step – the ultimate rock wall that leads to the summit. We will climb this rock wall with fixed ropes and finally trek for some feet to reach the Everest summit.
You will see some survey and scientific equipment along with prayer flags and discarded oxygen bottles near the Everest peak.
From the top of Everest, you can see other Himalayan peaks, including Cho Oyu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Descending
Everest Summit (8849m) to Camp IV (7900m)
The descent from Everest top to Camp IV (South Col) takes around four hours. You might be feeling elated that you have reached the top, but you must be careful, as the trails back to South Col are the most treacherous in the whole expedition. We will be spending the night at Camp IV.
Descent from Camp IV (7900m) to Base Camp (5,364m)
The difficult part of the expedition is over by now. You will be descending using the same route you used to climb Everest Peak. Once you are back at the Everest Base Camp, our Sherpas will set up the camp for one final day at the Everest Base Camp.
- Overnight stay in a camp tent
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
We have allocated a day for Everest Base Camp cleaning. Our staff members will clean the Everest Base Camp as we believe that environmental conservation is very important for sustainable tourism. Our goal is to hand over the campsite to future users in a better condition than when we arrived.
- Overnight stay in a camp tent
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
After a successful climb, it is time to retrace our steps out of the Everest region. After an early breakfast, we leave the Everest Base Camp and descend first to Gorakshep and then to Lobuche. Once again, on the way, you will pass a memorial erected for those who couldn’t succeed in this harsh weather. After trekking for around 5 hours, you will reach Pheriche, the destination for the day.
- Overnight stay at Himalayan Hotel
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
After spending a night at Pheriche and after a filling breakfast, our team will head to Tengboche. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, Imja Khola bridge, and past the juniper forests to Tengboche. Tengboche is known for its famous Tengboche Monastery, which looks magnificent due to Mt. Ama Dablam lying in its background.
- Overnight stay at Hotel Good Luck
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
An exciting trek to Namche Bazaar awaits. After early morning breakfast, it is time to trek through lush forests teeming with wildlife, including pheasants, mountain goats, musk deer, and snow leopards. On the way, you will also catch views of prayer flags, chortens, Lhotse, and Mt. Everest. After arriving at Namche Bazaar, you can explore this throbbing town known for providing luxury to tourists.
- Overnight stay at Yeti Mountain Home (room with attached bathroom)
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
Today marks your last day on the trails as we head to Lukla via Monjo village. You will mostly descend through a dense forest route that crosses Bhote Koshi at three places. Then, on the final stretch, you will be ascending for about forty-five minutes to arrive at Lukla, the destination for the day.
- Overnight stay at Yeti Mountain Home (room with attached bathroom)
- Included standard meals (Breakfast+ Lunch+ Dinner)
On this day, you will return to Kathmandu, bidding goodbye to the Everest region. At Lukla, you will have your breakfast and then board a 40-minute flight back to Kathmandu. With no more trails to cover, your flight will be relaxing. You might get even emotional while reliving your expedition moments. After arriving in Kathmandu, you will head to your hotel.
We have allocated one day for rest and leisure in Kathmandu. You are free to Prepare for Annapurna Expedition.
After breakfast, we will take a scenic drive from Kathmandu and drive over zigzag hilly roads to reach Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful town set on the banks of the serene Fewa Lake. It is tourist’s paradise full of natural as well as cultural heritage sites such as lakes, caves, temples of Buddhist and Hindus along with the fascinating high mountains. Pokhara is much smaller and less hectic than Kathmandu. After reaching Pokhara you will be transferred to the hotel for the overnight stay.
Today we leave Pokhara and take another short drive of little more than one hour to reach Nayapul – the starting point of the trek. From Nayapul we start to trek on the trail that goes along the Modi Khola river valley to reach Birethanti. At Birethanti we must stop for registration at Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)’s checkpoint. After registration and permit checks at Birethanti, our trek continues through beautifully terraced farmlands to arrive at Tikhedhunga.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast at Tikhedhunga, we will cross a small stream before climbing a rather steep stone staircase to reach Ulleri at 2,070 meters. Our trek continues through dense rhododendron filled forest to reach Nangethanti. From there gradual uphill trekking will lead us to Ghorepani for our overnight stay. We can enjoy the magnificent views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchre (Fish-Tail), Hiun Chuli and other surrounding high mountains from Ghorepani.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
The panorama of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges from Poon Hill is considered one of the best and classic Himalayan views. Thus today we will wake up early for an hours’ hike to reach over to the top of Poon Hill. We will enjoy the beautiful sunrise view over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchre (Fish Tail), Tukuche Peak, Hiunchuli and other surrounding high peaks. After spending a beautiful morning at Poon Hill, we will descend back to Ghorepani. Our trail from there descends steeply for crossing a suspension bridge over Kali Gandaki River. After crossing the river our trek goes along the levelled path until we arrive at Tatopani. Tatopani means ‘ Hot Spring’ in the Nepali language. Here we can relax at the Natural Hot Spring which is obviously a great feeling.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
From Tatopani, we will trek on a broad motor road trail that can be quite dusty. Our trek goes along the Kali Gandaki river. Our trail ascends gradually as we pass through the magnificent waterfall of Rupche Chahara. From there, our trek continues along the dusty trail that leads through deep gorges. We can hear the huge flows of the river stream while trekking through the area. We will continue to trek until we arrive at the village of Ghasa for our overnight stay.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast, we leave Ghasa and follow a rising trail that climbs for some hours to reach Lete. Our trek climbs through subtropical vegetation with incredible views of surrounding mountains and beautiful valleys. Our trek continues until we arrive at Lete for the overnight stay.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Today we leave Lete and trek over the trail that climbs further to harsh alpine vegetation. Our Sherpa crew will do all the hard works of carrying the tents, climbing gears and other necessary things needed for the further trekking and climbing. After a few hours of trekking, we will arrive at Thulo Bugin where there is a good campsite. We came here to end our day.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast, we leave our campsite at Thulo Bugin and follow the trail that climbs gradually over the loose and rocky route for a few hours. Trekking in higher altitudes can be very tiring, so resting every now and then helps in restoring energy much needed for further trekking. We trek until we arrive at a good campsite near Hum Khola at 4,286 meters.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Today we leave our campsite at Hum Khola and follow the trail that comprises several ups and downs and then levels out for some time. After a few hours trekking, we approach Miristi Khola where there are good camping grounds. Once we arrive at Miristi Khola, our crew will set up the camps for our overnight camping.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast, we leave our campsite at Miristi Khola and continue our trek over then the rather levelled path for some hours to reach Annapurna North Base Camp. After arriving at the campsite our Sherpa crew will set up the base camp and make necessary preparations for setting up additional camps at higher altitudes above the base camp. From now onwards we will take extra precautions with physical fitness and mental fitness in order to conquer one of the toughest 8000 meters – Mt Annapurna I.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
We will spend several days doing climbing training practices. Our Sherpa crew will do all the hard works from carrying and setting up additional camps at higher altitudes, prepare and provide healthy and hygienic meals for staying mentally and physically fit, and most importantly finding appropriate routes and fixing ladders, ropes etc .. to reach the summit of one of the deadliest mountains in the world – Mount Annapurna. Fully acclimatized and properly equipped with all the climbing gears we will follow the footsteps of experienced climbing Sherpa guides and overcome several technical climbing sections. Taking weather conditions into consideration we head towards the summit.
Annapurna Camp I (5200m/17,060ft) 4hrs:
Once you have reviewed basic and advanced training from your climbing Sherpa guide, you will be ready for your attempt to climb to camp I(5300m/17,388ft). In this section of the climb, you will encounter mixed terrain—the first section of the ridge rock and glacier. You will fix camp I at the middle of the glacier on a slope of 25º. A safe location and protects from avalanches. This section of the climb is a bit technical, and your climbing Sherpa guide will fix rope through this section. Some stronger climbers will skip this camp after and go right to camp II.
Annapurna Camp II (5700m/18,700ft) 4½hrs:
The climbing from camp I to camp II is an intermediate ice section with a few mixed climbing sections. Compared with other areas, the base I and camp II terrain is safer and more comfortable, but you still have to climb and cross the black rock wall before heading up the glacier. You encounter several steep blue ice sections at 45º, and these sections are roughly 50-60. There is also another 60m high rock wall to negotiate. This section is said to be the crux of the route. Camp 2 lies above the snowy terrace.
Annapurna Camp III (6500m/21,325ft) 5-6hrs:
Camp II to camp III is the longest distance of 800m/2,655ft. Between camp II and camp III, Sherpas will fix 80% of the route. In this first section of climbing, you will be crossing a glacier from east to west, and you will then meet a 55º wall, which is almost 500m in length. Climbers have reported that this section is easier climbing but is still not to take lightly; your Sherpa will fix ropes on this section of the route. Be advised that there is exposure to cold and wind in this section. In autumn, there have been reports of direct sun hitting this section, making it feel hot. This section is a little dangerous in the autumn season because the snow slope covers a layer of ice, causing the section avalanche prone.
Annapurna Camp IV (7100m/23,294ft) 3½hrs:
Climbing from camp III to camp IV feels like a short distance. Continue on the plateau where there are crevasses and seracs. Continue to the base of a spur, which will join a prominent couloir. Camp IV can set between 7100m-7200m in a panoramic rock cave. As all climbers are aware, the oxygen levels are deficient at this altitude, so it expects that any effort will feel arduous, no matter how minimal or trivial. You have to climb for 3 hours on steep snow and a giant wall at a 50-55º slope in this section. This section is a little dangerous in the autumn season because the snow slope covers a layer of ice, making the section avalanche prone. The Satori team will make an easy traverse to Camp IV at 7100m, which allows you to have a shorter summit day.
Annapurna Summit
Annapurna Summit (8,091m/26,545ft)16-17hrs:
Summit day is the main goal during the climbing period. Most climbers begin their summit bid at 11:00-12:00 pm. If all goes well, you will reach the summit between 7:00-10:00 am. Below the central panel is a false summit; the main point comes through an edge. It requires around 4 hours to re-visitation of camp IV from the peak also, an additional 2 hours to will camp II for a short-term stay. It requires a normal of 900m of fixed rope above camp IV and underneath the highest point. The reason we request almost 900m cord above camp III to the meeting. Most sections are blue ice and snow. The climbing is not technical in the early part as you ascend through several basins with short snow headwalls. The climb passes the false summit and finishes on an exposed ridge to the actual meeting for a spectacular view of the mighty Himalaya. Friendship World Trek Sherpa guides will fix ropes, break trail, and make every effort to help the group reach the Annapurna summit, the 10th highest mountain in the world.
Having achieved the summit of Mt Annapurna for a lifetime experience, we will make a relaxed start. After breakfast we engage ourselves in cleaning the base camp, then we prepare ourselves for the return journey. We start to retrace our steps on the same trail that heads back towards Miristi Khola. We will camp at Miristi Khola for the overnight stay.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
From Miristi Khola we continue to retrace our steps on the same trail that passes through Hum Khola. From there we descend steeply for a couple of hours and trek to reach Thulo Bugin Campsite for our overnight camping.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast, we leave our campsite at Thulo Bugin and follow the same trail that descends down to subtropical vegetation. We trek until we arrive back to Lete where we will spend our overnight in the comfy tea house at Lete. In the evening we will celebrate our achievement together with our climbing crew members.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
From Lete, our trail descends following the same trail until we arrive back to Ghasa. Our trek offers mountain vista of Annapurna regions with beautiful valleys. We will spend our overnight at Ghasa. Celebrate our evening with our climbing crew.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
From Ghasa our trail descends steeply until we reach Rukse Chahara, Rukse Waterfall in the Nepali language. We will take a short rest enjoying the view of the waterfall. Soon, our trail enters back to Kali Gandaki Valley – the deepest gorge in the world as we head towards Tatopani for our overnight stay. Tatopani in Nepali stands for ‘Hot Water’. Here there is Natural Hot Water Spring where we can relax after arriving at Tatopani. It is believed that the water heals body aches and pains naturally.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
From Tatopani, our trek continues on the trail that descends gradually down to Beni – where our trek ends technically. From Beni, we will take a two hours drive to reach back to Pokhara. You will be transferred to the hotel once we arrive at Pokhara. You can either have rest at the hotel or take an evening’s walk in the beautiful city of Pokhara.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast, we leave Pokhara and take a drive back to Kathmandu. It takes approximately four to five hours drive to reach Kathmandu from Pokhara. We will drive along Prithvi Highway which offers scenic hilly zigzag roads through the banks of Trishuli River. During our drive journey, we will have an opportunity to observe the daily survival activities of local people while we drive passing through roadside market towns and picturesque villages
You would surely like to see as much of Kathmandu as possible. An early start is practical to visit the temples of Kathmandu. You can pay a visit to attraction destination (world heritage sites of UNESCO) sites that weren’t possible on the second day of the trip. Also, walking around the shopping streets of Thamel is worth spending quality time at Kathmandu. We will celebrate the successful completion of Annapurna Expedition and have a final meal together in the evening.
Meals: BB Plan + Farewell Dinner
Our Friendship World Trek representative will drop you at the International Airport as per your flight schedule.
Meals: Breakfast
Departures & Availability
The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.
Check Available Dates
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All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.
Price include
- Airport and hotel transfers in Kathmandu in a private vehicle
- Flight ticket Kathmandu– Lukla – Kathmandu (domestic) along with airport departure taxes
- Everest Climbing Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permits, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality permit, garbage deposit, all government and local taxes
- Four days of hotel accommodations and four breakfasts at a selected hotel in Kathmandu
- Welcome dinner on the arrival day and farewell dinner after the expedition end
- Accommodation during the expedition in tea houses/lodge accommodation/tents during climbing on a twin-sharing basis. Total: 58 days. Rooms with attached bathrooms at Phakding, Namche (3N), and Lukla. Standard rooms at Tengboche (2N), Dingboche (2N), Lobuche, and Pheriche. Tent camps (47 N)
- All camping equipment like a tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table and chairs, mattresses. Mountain Hardware – arrangement of sleeping bags, down jackets, high altitude tents, emergency oxygen masks, regulators, and other necessary medical equipment
- Food/meals during the expedition – 58 breakfasts, 58 lunches, and 58 dinners. Experienced and qualified cook and kitchen helper at base camp and advanced camps. Kitchen and dining equipment for all camps. Extra dietary requirements, food, fuel, fresh vegetables, and fruits during the expedition. High altitude food and fuel.
- EPI Gas burner for a high climb, Gamow bag (life-saving device in case of altitude sickness) on a sharing basis with expedition members. Portable altitude chamber (PAC). Group gears and supplies like ropes, ice screws, and snow bars.
- Costs related to tents, lodging, meals, salary, transportation, flights, and crew insurance, including helicopter rescue provision and other necessary equipment
- Medical kits. We use pulse oximeters during the expedition to monitor blood oxygen saturation levels and avoid altitude sickness or other health risks.
- Costs of government-licensed Friendship World Treks experienced and qualified Sherpa climbing leaders, expedition manager, liaison officer, porters, cooks, kitchen helper, daily Nepali staff wages, equipment, other costs, and allowance.
- Porters for transportation. (2 Trekkers:1 Porter) Maximum load 18 kg per porter.
- Access to Satellite phones and Walkie-Talkies during Everest Expedition
- Rescue operations arrangements in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
- Friendship World Trek Expedition achievement certificate after the successful expedition
- Airport Arrival Departure transfer as per mentioned in Itinerary.
- 4 star hotel in Kathmandu and in Pokhara with BB Plan.
- Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu including City Guide, Entrance fees, and Private Vehicle.
- Guide handbook and map to familiarize yourself with the terrain and enlighten the adventurous spirit.
- Climbing permit for Mount Annapurna expedition.
- All essential Trekking Permits and Conservation Area Fees.
- Tea House accommodation during pre-climbing & Post- Climbing journey.
- Camping accommodation during climbing.
- All meals – Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trekking and climbing period.
- One client = one climbing sherpa
- Required number of porters, and kitchen staff for camping.
- All essential camping equipment – Dining tent, toilet tent, store tent, table – chair for the expedition.
- Liaison officer.
- All staff’s salary, food, clothing, and insurance.
- All essential climbing gears.
- Emergency oxygen mask & regulator (3 oxygen cylinders for the client and 1 for the climbing guide).
- Solar panel for batteries charging & lighting in base camp.
- Arrangement of the fuel-powered generator to charge the personal accessories during the days when solar power isn’t enough.
- Heaters to make the dining room warm and cozy to make the experience convenient (Mostly during mornings and evenings).
- Fuel, EPI cooking gas, and stove at the base camps for cooking and warming up food and beverages. Also, heaters are available for heating the dining room, especially in the morning and evening.
- Satellite Phone (Need to pay as per usages per minute) during Annapurna Expedition.
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
- All applicable TAX, VAT, and necessary paperwork.
- Assistance with visa extension, departure information, and flight booking confirmations, totally free of cost.
Price Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fee, international airfare, and airport taxes
- Medical and personal high-risk insurance. Emergency rescue evacuation if required & Personal accident, medical insurance, or Helicopter rescue for climbing/expedition members.
- Personal equipment & climbing gears, personal expenses (shopping, laundry, telephone call, extra porter)
- Applicable permit fees and customs charges for satellite phones, communication equipment, commercial expedition filming
- Excess luggage charges. Limit per member is 9 kg
- Lunch/Dinner or meal expenses in Kathmandu and Extra Night – Accommodation/Hotel in Kathmandu
- Lunch/dinner or meal expenses in Kathmandu and extra night accommodation (and meals) in Kathmandu due to early return, late departure
- Hot (tea/coffee), cold, and alcoholic drinks
- Walkie-talkies & filming permit
- Cargo clearance (Custom duty fees to be paid by clients)
- Summit bonus and tips for guides and porters
- Additional costs due to delays caused by unforeseen events like extreme weather conditions, itinerary modification for safety concerns, illness, sudden changes in government policies, strikes, etc
- Your climbing insurance.
- Expenses of international flight and airport or Nepalese tourist visa.
- Employment of extra personnel (not allotted in the package).
- TIPS for staffs.
- Summit bonus of US$1,200 for climbing with the Sherpa Guide (Regulated by the Mountaineering Association and Department of Tourism).
- Refundable garbage deposit.
Gears And Equipment
Trip Information
Equipment and Gears
Our advice is to bring only the must-have items to the expedition. It is not necessary to bring all equipment and gear from your country as you can buy them in Kathmandu for moderate prices.
Here is a list of things you will require for the expedition.
Head
- Sun Cap
- Balaclava to avoid frostbite and block wind
- Neck gaiter to cover ears and neck
- Headlight with extra batteries (400 to 500 lumens)
- Climbing helmet
- Desert Cap that can protect your head, neck, and face from sunburn in mountains
- A warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic to keep you warm)
- Fleece hat to cover ears and head
- Snow goggle
- Oxygen mask
Face
- Sunscreen
- Lip Guard
- Glaciers glasses to avoid UV rays and snow reflections
Hands
- Thin lightweight fleece gloves (or wool)
- Heavy gloves for high-altitudes
- Wind stopper gloves (we recommend those with touch sensitivity for mobile use)
- Insulated summit gloves waterproof/breathable
Body (Upper)
- Down jacket to be used below 6,000m
- T-Shirt (Cotton)
- Gore-tex jacket for protection against rain, snow, and wind
- Thermal top base layer (closest to the skin)
- Fleece jacket for extreme cold
- Windproof jacket for extreme wind and snow
- Warm jacket to provide an extra layer
Body (Lower)
- Thermal bottom base layer for warmth and sweat absorption
- Heavyweight synthetic pants
- Midweight pants to protect yourself from rain, snow, and wind
- Lightweight cotton pants for climbing and trekking
- A pair of fleece or woolen trousers
- Gore-Tex (over)trousers or bibs. Waterproof/breathable with full side zips
- Underwear made of synthetic material like polyester
- Insulated Down jackets (not synthetic) with full side zips for bathroom
- Gaiters for trekking boots (used over the boots to avoid snow enter boots)
Footwear
- Hiking shoes for walking and staying in camps
- Wool or synthetic socks
- Liner socks to be worn inside wool/synthetic socks
- Trekking shoes for the trails in the mountains
- Normal synthetic fiber socks and pants for high mountains
- Camp booties while walking or staying in camps
- Slipper for walking around camps
Essential gears
- Helmet – lightweight, ventilated, and adjustable
- Summit Down Suit for full body insulation
- GPS tracker
- Crampons that fit your boots perfectly- improve mobility on snow and ice
- Ice ax (e) with a pointed spike
- Climbing harness for attaching to a climbing rope
- Jumar/ ascender
- Locking and non-locking Carabiners
- Tape slings- an essential part of a climbers’ kit to wrap around the section of rock and hitch to other
- Satellite phone
- Belay devices
- Prusik loops
- Altimeter watch that alerts you to bad weather
- Trekking poles
- Swiss knife
Toiletries
- Medium size drying towel
- Small mirror
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Face and body moisturizer
- Female hygiene products for females
- Deodorant floss
- Nail clippers
- Tissue /toilet paper roll
- Anti-bacterial hand wash
- Pee bottle (1 liter)
- Multi-purpose soap (must be biodegradable)
Personal accessories
- Money
- Watch
- Cell phone
- Camera
Medical needs
- First-aid tapes and plasters
- One skin-blister repair kit
- Stomach antibiotic – Ciprofloxacin, etc.
- One set of earplugs
- Personal simple and light first-aid kit
- Anti-diarrhea, headache pills
- Cough and cold medicine
- Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
- Extra pair of prescription glasses or contact lens supplies
Extra items
- Trail map/guidebook
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Please have a notepad and pen handy to note information.
- Extra passport photos and photocopies of passport
- Notebook and pen (if you want to write your moments)
Essential documents
Please email us the following documents to arrange permits.
- A copy of your passport, three passport-size photos, and travel/health insurance documents with contact details
- Additionally, we advise you to maintain a separate photocopy of all essential documents, including insurance policy, travelers’ cheques, bank/ATM card contact numbers, international flight tickets, emergency contact numbers, etc.
Food & Water
While in Kathmandu, before departing for the Everest expedition or after returning to Kathmandu, you will have plenty of food choices and can indulge in your favorite dishes. While on your way to Everest Base Camp from Lukla and vice-a-versa, we will arrange your meal in the best possible hotels/restaurants. All meals will be nutrient-rich, tasty, and hygienic. However, as you ascend to greater heights, food choices get limited and more expensive. Though non-veg items will be available at these places, we do not recommend them for meat hygiene concerns.
While you stay at the camps, we provide cooks and helpers to prepare your meals. Our trained cooks will provide you with tasty and nutritious food. In addition to meals, we advise you to bring extra dietary supplements, preferably from Kathmandu.
You can buy bottled water at en route shops/lodges to Everest, but we advise you to bring a water bottle and buy bottled water from lodges/tea houses. It will help in environmental conservation, and you might not be allowed to carry plastic bottles in some expedition regions. During the climbing period, we will boil water in tent camps and provide you with boiled water. For precaution, we advise you to use water purification pills before drinking water.
Accommodations
While in Kathmandu, you will stay in a selected hotel in rooms with an attached bathroom. In the expedition regions, we will provide your five-night stays in rooms with an attached bathroom at Lukla, Phakding, and Namche (3N). Similarly, you will stay six nights in standard rooms at Tengboche (2N), Dingboche (2N), Lobuche, and Pheriche.
You will be staying at tent camps while climbing Everest. Our Sherpas will prepare your tents even before you even reach the camp. These tent camps will have necessary things for a modest stay, including pillows and mattresses.
Nepal Expeditions 2017 Route Map
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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
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