ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK-13 NIGHT / 14 DAYS

Transcription

1 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK-13 NIGHT / 14 DAYS NOVEMBER - INCLUDING OVERNIGHT IN BANGKOK ON RETURN TO N.Z ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK HIGHLIGHTS One of the world's great treks This is the classic trek to the Annapurna Base Camp the world s tenth highest mountain Enjoy meeting some of Nepal's remarkable ethnic clans in hillside villages and along the trail Taste of Nepali cuisine with a local cultural show at Kathmandu Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Annapurna Region. This 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary is specially designed for the trekkers who wanted to complete Annapurna Base Camp but are restricted time-wise. If you want to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek more relaxed way, we would recommend you to join our Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered one of the world's great treks. The walk-in to the Sanctuary provides an experience of the great variety of landscape types which serve to make Nepal such a special trekking destination. You will pass through a diverse geographical and cultural variation with an amazing range of flora and fauna in between. Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins from Phedi (where we start first day of our trek). During the trek, we encounter subtropical heat, pretty villages and neatly terraced rice fields. Gaining height gradually, we enjoy several days of pleasant walking with a mix of abundant forest and scattered areas of farmed land. Finally, beyond the last of the bamboo and rhododendron woodland, the valley narrows at the entrance to the world of ice and snow that is the Annapurna Sanctuary. Throughout the walk-in there are outstanding panoramas of the high peaks to the north, and the contrast of the rice-fields and villages with the snow peaks above, makes for very picturesque trekking indeed. Finally, our trips end at Naya Pul, then, you will drive to Pokhara, enhances by its lovely lakes, which have their source in the glacial region of the Annapurna range of the Himalayas. TRIP FACTS Trip Duration : 11 Days (Pokhara to Kathmandu) Trekking destination : Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) Trip Grade : Moderate to Strenuous Activities : Trekking including cultural sightseeing tours in Kathmandu Best Seasons : Autumn (mid Sept to mid Dec) and Spring (March to May) Trip Starts/Ends : Kathmandu (Capital of Nepal) Transportation : Private Vehicle/Tourist Deluxe Bus Accommodations : 1 night at Kathmandu, 1 night Pokhara & 8 nights in lodge/teahouse during trek DETAILED DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

2 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 2 DAY 01 7 TH NOVEMBER Drive from POKHARA to Phedi and trek to Dhampus (1650m) Breakfast at the hotel Drive to Phedi and trek to Dhampus Dinner and overnight at the lodge Drive to Phedi (approx 1 hr drive). Trek to Dhampus- About 3 hrs walking After breakfast, you will be driven in a private vehicle approx 1 hour drive to Phedi (1130m) along the graceful Modi Khola Valley. On reaching our destination, we begin our highly panoramic Annapurna trek. The route skirts through lush forest and countryside to the hill top village of Dhampus. The mountains we see from Dhampus include Annapurna South, the Fishtail, Hiunchuli and Lamjung. We spend our first night in Dhampus DAY 02 8 TH NOVEMBER Dhampus to Landruk (1620m) Trek from Dhampus to Landruk -About 5-6 hrs walking Beyond Dhampus we get our first clear views of the mountains ahead, as we ascend through forest on a trail which is often made up of stone steps on the steeper sections. Passing through Pothana, we reach a clearing on a pass, at a place called Deurali (pass). At this point we are high up on the east side of the Modi Khola, the river which flows out of the Annapurna Sanctuary. From Deurali we descend steeply down through forest then contour around through villages and terraced fields to camp in the picturesque Gurung settlement of Landruk, which affords spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. DAY 03 9 TH NOVEMBER Landruk to Chhomrong (2210m) Trek from Landruk to Chhomrong-About 6 hrs walking) We descend all the way down to the river, to cross at New Bridge. Our route now climbs quite steeply, high above the river, through bamboo forest and isolated farmsteads. Lunch is served at the tea-houses at Jhinu Danda. Those who are energetic can take the path 20 mins down to bath in the hot springs here next to the river after lunch. From Jhinu Danda it s a hot climb to reach the crest of the ridge and then around to Chhomrong, our overnight place for tonight. Chhomrong is built on the steep hillside and has a few shops and several tea-houses, wooden lodges and the whole village has stunning, prominent views towards Macchappuchare (Fish-Tail Peak) DAY TH NOVEMBER Chhomrong to Dovan (2600m) Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan-About 7 hours walking We leave Chhomrong along the Modi Khola leaving behind inhabited foothills into the high step and wooded slopes of Himalayas. We cross the suspension bridge then trek up to Sinuwa Danda. The ascent from Sinuwa becomes somewhat flatter. The trail passes through thick and dark rhododendron forest up to Khuldighar.

3 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 3 Then, we descend a long and steep stone steps into deep bamboo and rhododendron forests through which we reach Bamboo. After gentle climb of 1 ½ hrs walking, finally we reach our destination at Dovan for overnight DAY TH NOVEMBER Dovan to Macchappuchare Base Camp (3700m) Trek from Dovan to Macchappuchare Base Camp (About 7 hrs walking) Climbing steeply we reach a fire-blackened overhang of Hinko Cave. From here we will reach at Deurali. Leaving Deurali the valley narrows even more as we enter the gateway to the Sanctuary. We climb up to the area which is called Macchappuchare Base camp, a level and grassy moraine platform with several lodges. In the afternoon we can go up to the ridge behind camp to look down onto the glacier and absorb the distant view of Annapurna 1 & 3, Gangapurna and by straining your neck upwards the now nearby Fishtail. DAY TH NOVEMBER MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) Trek to Annapurna Base Camp, Sanctuary (About 2 ½ hrs walking) Another short day today, as it is a fairly gentle ascent from our camp to Annapurna South Base Camp, and a distance of only about 4 kilometers or 2½ miles. Increasingly impressive views reward us for our efforts as we climb the last steep section before reaching the basecamp area. The afternoon is free to relax and admire one of the most stunning mountain amphitheatres in the Himalaya. Optionally, if conditions and route permit there's a chance to walk out towards the Annapurna Base Camp. (4130m). DAY TH NOVEMBER Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2400m) Trek from ABC to Bamboo (About 6 hrs walking) Get up in the early morning and savor the magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas from ABC. After taking breakfast, we start descending from ABC to Bamboo back through MBC, Deurali, Dovan and finally reach Bamboo. Heading back down to the valley is much easier than climbing up. You will see the waterfalls that drop down from a high point to the rocks below. We pass through the forests with great views of Fishtail and Hiunchuli mountains. Overnight in Bamboo DAY TH NOVEMBER Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1760m) Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda About 6 hrs walking From Bamboo we make a steep ascent to the Kuldi Ghar and then to Sinuwa following the stone steps that leads to Lower Chhomrong. Then we ascend on the thousand stony steps taking us to Upper Chhomrong. From Chhomrong we descend to Jhinu Danda. We today get opportunity to enjoy hot springs lying just a 20-min walk from Jhinu Danda.

4 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 4 DAY TH NOVEMBER Jhinu Danda to Naya Pul (1070m) & drive to Pokhara Breakfast at the lodge Trek to Naya Pul and drive to Pokhara Overnight at hotel in Pokhara Trek from Jhinu Danda to Naya Pul About 6hrs walking Trek from Jhinu Danda to New bridge and then to Kyumi village. After lunch, we trek to Syauli bazaar and then down to Birethanti. After about an hour trek from Birethanti, and we arrive at Naya Pul. The trek ends at Naya Pul. You will be picked you up at Nayapul and approx one hour drive takes you to Pokhara. We check in to our hotel late afternoon. Rest of the day free to wonder around. Overnight at the hotel in Pokhara Meals included: Breakfast & lunch DAY TH NOVEMBER Pokhara/Kathmandu by drive Drive back to Kathmandu (approx 7 hrs drive) by Deluxe Tourist Bus including lunch Leaving Pokhara we take the Prithvi Highway originally constructed by the Chinese in We drive initially through mostly Brahmin and Chhetri villages, distinguished by their ochre coloured houses. We soon leave the flat Seti Valley behind though and then cross the Madi Khola near Damauli, where there may be good views of the Annapurnas, Manaslu to the north up the valley. We ll pass the Marsyangdi hydroelectric project and soon afterwards the town of Mugling, at the confluence of the Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers. The road starts to climb once we reach Naubise, and reaches a pass on the Kathmandu Valley rim via a series of breathtaking zigzags, from where we complete the journey back to the Nepalese capital. Alternatively you may choose to take the half hour flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu (The cost of flight will be USD 102 per person (this cost includes airfare and transportation in Pokhara and Kathmandu) Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can spend the evening leisurely, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping or if you prefer you may celebrate dinner together with our trekking guide. Overnight at the hotel Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch DAY TH NOVEMBER Day free for your own arrangements in Kathmandu. Overnight at the hotel Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch DAY TH NOVEMBER Depart Kathmandu Breakfast at the hotel Free time till departure Transfer to airport for final departure

5 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 5 You are saying good bye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We hope you enjoyed the tour with us and we expect that you plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal again. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight time, a representative from Natraj Trekking will transfer you to the airport for final departure on Thai Airways flight TG320, at 1.50pm End of Nepal arrangements. Below please find basic information regarding the onward arrangements that have been organised as part of the Habitat for Humanity Build cost. Meals included: Breakfast 6.25pm - Arrive Bangkok. Overnight at hotel (to be confirmed) DAY TH NOVEMBER Today is at leisure in Bangkok, until your flight to Auckland early evening. 6.45pm - Depart Bangkok on Thai Airways flight TG491, departing at 6.45pm for your OVERNIGHT flight back to Auckland. Meals included: Breakfast at hotel / meals on plane DAY TH NOVEMBER 12.05pm - Arrive Auckland. Please note that the arrival time can change due to daylight savings, as well as any schedule changes made by the airline that are beyond our control. If you are flying home to another point in New Zealand please make sure you allow enough time for your connection. Detail Cost of the above package Standard Hotels Option (3 star) Kathmandu( Manaslu ) & Pokhara( Base Camp Resort ) Group Size Cost Per Person 01 Person NZD People NZD Person NZD Person NZD Person NZD & Above NZD Single Supplement NZD 110 The above cost includes the following items: Transport, Entrance Fee, Guide, etc Airports drop by private vehicle in Kathmandu transfers Pokhara/Kathmandu by tourist deluxe bus including lunch Monument entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary Free Natraj Trekking Kit Bag Tips / Gratuities except in Bangkok

6 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 6 Accommodations 02 nights accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu 01 night accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara 24.3% VAT and Service Charge Trekking Portion 08 nights accommodation at local lodge (Teahouse) during the trek All tours and transfers to and from trekking point by a private vehicle All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the entire trek Services of an experienced trekking guide and one porter to every two trekkers during the trek TIMS CARD FEE Annapurna Area Conservation Fee (ACAP) Insurance for trek guide and porters Cost excludes International Airfare Nepal Visa Fee Personal expenses - Beverages, laundry, telephone call, etc Travel Insurance/ Emergency Evacuation Cost Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara Note: The price does not include: undue escalation in fuel prices, new taxes levies on hotels and transportation services or any hikes in entrance fees. Any large tax hikes and new levies shall be payable extra and shall be billed accordingly with prior notice. Sarah Note: Due to recent events in Nepal, this programme is subject to any changes that may be recommended for the enjoyment and safety of the Habitat team members. U.S DOLLAR CURRENCY: Due to the recent change in the Official Cash Rate (OCR), there has been a significant drop in the U.S Dollar, which is the currency our Nepalese Tour Operator uses. This required a small provision for any exchange rate variations. If the rate moves unfavourably to any extent we may need to recover a modest additional amount. At the time of finalising the Tour payments this will be advised. DEPOSITS / FINAL PAYMENTS: Below is a schedule of payments that are required for this Tour: INITIAL DEPOSIT: To confirm your place on this tour a $ per person, non-refundable deposit is required. This is to be paid upon confirmation of joining the Tour. FINAL PAYMENT: The balance is due 2 months before departure from NZ which is FRIDAY 28 AUGUST At this stage the total tour is NON-REFUNDABLE and insurance is highly recommended in the event of cancellation. PAYMENT OPTIONS: By bank transfer: Account Name: TRAVEL MANAGERS GROUP ASB A/C Number: Bank transfer ref: SARAHG B7230 your surname By credit card: Payments can be made by credit card and Sarah Grut will require your Card type, number, name on card and expiry date. Please add 2% extra for Visa/MasterCard and 4% extra for AMEX.

7 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 7 PRACTICAL INFORMATION Equipment Check List for Annapurna Base Camp Trek You are advised to consider the following equipments as essentials while packing for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Please use this list as a guideline. Adjustments to the list can be done according to your needs, interests, duration of your trip, season of your trip, etc. You can find variety of these gears to hire or buy in Kathmandu. Please remember that at the start of the trek, apart from your day pack, your luggage that will be carried by porters should have weight limitation of approximately 12 kg. Head: Sun hat or scarf Light balaclava or warm fleece hat Sunglasses with UV protection Upper Body: T-shirts Light and expedition weight thermal tops Fleece jacket or pullover Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional) Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket Down vest and/or jacket Lower Body: Under Garments Hiking shorts Lightweight cotton long pants Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms Fleece or wool pants (seasonal) Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants Hands: Feet: Lightweight gloves Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer (seasonal) Hiking boots with spare laces Thin, lightweight inner socks Thick, warm wool hiking socks Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals) Gaiters for hiking in winter to the base camp Accessories: Sleeping bag rated to -15 Degree Celsius degrees Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries Basic First Aid Kit (Personal medicine) Large plastic bags - for keeping items dry inside trek bag Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches) Trekking Poles /Water bottles Toiletries (Small wash towel, Toilet papers etc) Ear Plug Toiletries 1 medium sized quick drying towel Tooth brush/paste (preferably biodegradable) Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable) Deodorants Nail clippers Face and body moisturizer Feminine hygiene products Small mirror

8 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 8 Personal Hygiene Wet wipes (baby wipes) Tissue /toilet roll Anti bacterial hand wash Extras/Luxuries Binoculars/ Reading book/trail Map/Guide book Pencils and small notebooks Walking Grades and Fitness Annapurna Base Camp Trek is graded as Moderate Trek and suitable for all walkers who have the capability to walk at least 6-7 hours a day with a light day pack. Some days, you may even need to walk more than above. Walking in higher altitude is physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if you are in a good health with average physical fitness and have positive attitude, self confidence and strong determination, you can achieve the 12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly for some weeks prior of the trip is a good idea to improve your strength and stability. Past hiking experience would be an advantage but no technical skill is required for this trip. It is vital that you consult with your doctor before you decide and set up for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should inform Natraj Trekking before booking the trek. Lodges/teahouses in trekking Our accommodation whilst on trek on twin room sharing basis in a simple locally run lodges, known as teahouses and it s a great pleasure to support these small local businesses. Rooms are simply furnished with just a bed and occasionally a small table. You will need to bring a sleeping bag. Please note, normally washing and toilet facilities are shared and may be in a separate part of the teahouse or outside. It s great to enjoy the company of your fellow travellers and share a tale with other trekkers in the evening in the dining area. If you are a solo traveler, you will share a room with someone else of same sex of your group. If you prefer a single room, you may indicate your preference and get single rooms on request by paying extra as indicated on cost section. But, you need to understand that in teahouses/lodges of higher elevation area single room is not always possible. We guarantee single room in Kathmandu & Pokhara only. During your trek single room is not possible Meals & drinking water On this trek we provide standard breakfast, lunch and dinner, tea or coffee will also be included with each meal. Your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the best value meals possible. Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not normally extensive. Most teahouses offer a variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. You can buy packaged water (bottled mineral water) from local lodge and shop en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water (extra cost to be paid) and treat with water purification pills. Luggage while trekking During the trek, your main luggage will be carried by porter. Please keep your luggage as light as possible around 12 kg. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket etc. You can leave your valuable items at your hotel while trekking. Many hotels have a locker system and provide a deposit slip for the valuables kept under the hotel's safekeeping. You may also leave your extra things at your hotel which is not required for your trek in your main luggage. Please note that we will provide complimentary kit bag for you before your trek starts so that you can pack all your necessary things. Trekking crew On tea house trek you will be accompanied by a team of local crew whose aim is to make the trek as comfortable and enjoyable as much possible. The crew consists of a trek guide/leader and a team of porters to carry all your gear. On average, there will be a ratio of one porter to every two trekkers. The most important thing that makes your Trek successful, enjoyable and memorable is the skilled, experienced, courteous and helpful trek guide and the crew members with ability of operating your days in the mountain smoothly. Your trip will be led by experienced trek guide. All of our trekking guides/leaders are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, leadership skills and personal aptitude.

9 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 9 Typical day on trek Each morning after packing our bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the day's walk. After walking for 3-4 hours we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon's walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day's adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep. Personal expenses On this trek breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided during your trek. You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas) tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places). Meeting and greeting in Kathmandu You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a 'meeting and greeting' service at the Kathmandu Airport. You just pass through the Customs and come out of the Arrival Terminal Hall after collecting your baggage where you will see our representative /guide standing with a placard that states Natraj Trekking' with your own name. Climate & best time to go Autumn (mid Sept to mid Dec) and Spring (March to May) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather is sunny and warm, with outstanding views but the nights are cold and can fall to freezing. Winter (Dec, Jan, Feb) is also good for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, only colder (obviously). The trekking routes are crowded during spring and autumn but during winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather best of nature. However, please note, there may be snowfall / avalanches during the winter. Itinerary changes Depending on the prevailing situation, itinerary can be modified to some extent after consulting with your trek guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary. You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative similar to your original. Nepal Visa All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Visa is also issued at the entry points. It can be extended at the Department of Immigration, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. Children under 10 years need not pay any visa fee. People willing to get entry Visa at the air port or any of the land entry points are required to fill a visa form with passport photograph. If you are obtaining Nepal Visa upon arrival (please note that some of nationalities cannot get visa upon arrival), please be noted that Nepal Visa Application Form can be received through us by . Two passport size photo graphs are required and following visa fee to be paid at the airport as per your stay in Nepal Visa Facility Duration Fee Multiple Entry 15 days US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency Multiple Entry 30 Days US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency Multiple Entry 90 Days US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency Note: Please note that visa fees and rules are subject to change. Rescue/evacuations In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we hope will not happen; you shall be rescued by a helicopter. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back in Kathmandu.

10 ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - 14 DAYS P a g e 10 Insurance It is recommended of joining any of Natraj Trekking trips that be protected against comprehensive expenses potential to incur due to medical issues or accidents (to include air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and treatment costs). Please be noted that we do not arrange or sell insurance. Altitude 4130m to be covered by Insurance Company Why with Natraj Trekking Natraj Trekking is the one of the leading and oldest trekking agency in Nepal since We organize Tibet, Bhutan & India tour as well. We excel in this field because we genuinely love what we do and are committed to providing you with the best services as we commit you. Responsible travel The beautiful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. At Natraj Trekking, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize the detrimental impact on the environment as much as possible. Care for porters and staffs We make sure that all porters and all other staff climbing in high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. We also ensure that the porters we hire are insured. We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter Protection group (IPPG- Know before you go We strongly recommend that you check your government s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs, including advice re: the legality of and local attitudes towards same-sex relationships. Departure Dates We will easily organize this trip on the dates requested by you. Please contact us for your customized departure date