KAILASH MANSAROVAR WITH MUKTINATH, VALMIKI ASHRAM, JANAKPUR & LHASA - 25 DAYS

Transcription

1 KAILASH MANSAROVAR WITH MUKTINATH, VALMIKI ASHRAM, JANAKPUR & LHASA - 25 DAYS Depart: , , , Return: , , , Tour Highlights: 5* Accommodation at Kathmandu 4* Accommodation at Pokhara Visit Pashupatinath & Buddha Neelkanth All Vegetarian Meals Rudrabhishek in Kathmandu Visit to Manokamna Temple Visit to Muktinath Temple Visit to Janakpur Temple Surprise Gifts Early departure & stopover in India available ADULT: from 3795 per person DAY 01: UK- KATHMANDU: Depart UK to Kathmandu. ( Dinner on Flight) DAY 02: KATHMANDU ARRIVAL : Arrival in Kathmandu. You will be met at the airport & transferred to Hotel. ( Dinner) - Airport- Hotel: 5 km 30 minutes DAY 03: KATHMANDU- POKHARA- VIA MANOKAMNA ; After breakfast, drive to Pokhara stopping en route at Kurintar for Cable car ride (subject to availability) to MANOKAMNA TEMPLE "Wish Fulfilling Goddess". After visiting temple we descend to the highway and proceed to Pokhara. - Overnight at Hotel - Kathmandu to Pokhara: 200 km 7 hours drive DAY 04: FLIGHT; POKHARA TO JOMSOM: After breakfast, we transfer you to Pokhara airport for your flight to Jomsom. Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom often operates in the morning time because the weather in the mountain area will be clear with less wind. It takes about 25 minutes to reach Jomsom and another 45 minutes will require to reach Muktinath by Jeep. After doing snan and Pooja; you will return back to Jomsom for overnight stay. - Overnight at Guesthouse- - Pokhara to Jomsom flight: 25 minutes - Aircraft type: Dronier or twin otter Page 1 of 15

2 - Carrying capacity: 15 passengers - Jomsom to Muktinath: 45 minutes by Jeep - Altitude of Muktinath: 3710 m. 12,170 ft. - Altitude of Jomsom: 2700 m ft. DAY 05: FLIGHT; JOMSOM- POKHARA + SIGHTSEEING TOUR: Early morning fly back to Pokhara. Afternoon you will do sightseeing tour around the city. Today, we will show you Barahi temple, Davis fall, Gupteshwor Mahadev cave and Vindvasini temple. Evening free time on your own. - Overnight at Hotel DAY 06: POKHARA- VALMIKI ASHRAM- CHITWAN: After breakfast, check-out and you will proceed to Chitwan National Park. On the way, visit Valmiki Ashram (also known as DEVGHAT ). Evening halt at a Resort in Chitwan National park. Enjoy the evening with live Tharu culture Dance. Tharu are the native people of Chitwan. They are known as the Malaria proof people. - Pokhara- VALMIKI ASHRAM- Chitwan National Park (Sauraha)- 140 km 4 hours - Overnight at Hotel DAY 07: CHITWAN JANAKPUR DHAM: Morning after breakfast, you will proceed to Janakpur via East-West highway of Nepal. Janaki Mandir is a Hindu temple of Janakpur in Mithila region of Nepal, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Sita. It is the primary temple of Maithali native indigenous to Nepal. It is an example of 'Hindu-Rajput' Nepali architecture. It is often considered the most important model of Rajput architecture in Nepal. Fully built in bright white and constructed in an area of 4,860 sq. feet in a mixed style of Islamic and Rajput domes, the temple is 50 meters high. It is a three-storied structure made entirely of stone and marble. According to legends and epics, King Janak ruled this area (called Videha) during the Ramayana period. His daughter Janaki (Sita), during her swyambar, had chosen Lord Rama as her husband, and become queen of Ayodhya. There marriage ceremony had occurred in the nearby Temple. - Overnight at Hotel - Chitwan to Janakpur: 251 km 6 hours drive. DAY 08: JANAKPUR- KATHMANDU: In the morning, darshan at Janaki Mandir. Later on you will fly to Kathmandu. We will transfer to hotel and do preparation for the next day. - Overnight Hotel - Janakpur- Kathmandu: 35 minutes flight DAY 09: FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING TOUR WITHIN KATHMANDU Full day sightseeing tour within Kathmandu valley. You will visit Pashupatinath temple (the holiest temple of Hindus), Guheshowri Mata temple, Budhanilkantha Bishnu temple (also known as Jal Narayan or Seshnarayan) and Monkey temple. - Overnight at Hotel DAY 10: FLY, KATHMANDU TO LHASA : Morning after breakfast, you will be escorted to the international airport/ Kathmandu for your flight to Lhasa. This is probably the most spectacular flight in the world crossing mighty Himalayan range. If the weather permits; we can see the view of Mt. Everest. The flight duration is 1 hour & 10 minutes. At Lhasa airport; you will be met & greet by our Chinese guide then transferred to Hotel. Evening, free for independent activities or rest. - Overnight Hotel - Kathmandu to Lhasa: 1 hour & 10 minutes. - Gonggar airport to Lhasa city: 65 km 1 hour. - Altitude of Lhasa: 3650 m ft. DAY 11: LHASA STAY- SIGHTSEEING TOUR : Today, you will do sightseeing tour in Lhasa. You can visit Potala Palace (the winter Palace of Dalai Lama), Jokhang temple & Bustling Barkhor Square market and Norbulinkha Palace (the summer Palace of Dalai Lama). Page 2 of 15

3 - Overnight Hotel - Altitude of Lhasa: 3650 m ft. NOTE: There are two types of ticket to enter the Potala Palace. The entry ticket for inside Palace is not included in our service. However, we can circumambulate the palace from outside. Those who wants to go inside have to climb 13 storey Palace with no elevator and they are requested to inform us in advance because ticket is limited. Ticket fee will be extra. DAY 12: TOUR FROM LHASA TO GYANTSE : Morning after breakfast, you will set off for Gyantse. Gyantse is situated to the south-west of Lhasa and it is an ancient trading hub as well as it used to be an important strategic point in the past. The city is jeweled with Palkor Chode Monastery, Khumbum stupa (the largest stupa in Tibet) and Gyantse Dzong (the fortress). On the way, you will be crossing over two high passes, Kamba-La and Karo- La. Kamba- La is on the mountain that divides Lhasa valley and Nakartse-county. The high pass offers probably the most stunning overlooking views of Lake Yamdruk Tso & other mountain views. Karo- La is a beautiful pass with its magnificent hanging glacier. Both high passes are over 4800 m. (15,744 ft.) from the sea level. Lake Yamdruk Tso is another attraction of today s journey. After descending from Kamba- La, you will be driving for a while along its shore. This is the largest fresh water lake in Tibet that spreads in the area of 638 sq. km. - Overnight at Hotel - Lhasa to Gyantse drive- 263 km 5 hrs drive. - Elevation of Gyantse m. 12,956 ft. - High light of today: Kamba La Pass, Lake Yamdruk Tso and Karola Glacier. DAY 13: DRIVE, GYANTSE TO LHATSE : The very first city after Gyantse is Shigatse. Here, we make a brief halt for visiting Tashilungpu Monastery. Shigatse is the head quarter of Shigatse prefecture of Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The city is situated 94 km north of Gyantse and it is the second largest city of Tibet and official throne of Panchen Lama. Panchen Lama is the highest ranking Lama of Glugpa sect of Buddhism. Tashilungpu Monastery is an icon of Shigatse and the abode of Panchen Lama. After visiting Tashilungpu Monastery, we continue our journey for Lhatse. The drive takes about three hours to get to Lhatse from Shigatse. We can see many Tibetan villages en route. Lhtase is the place from where the highway divides into two. One goes to Kailash and the other goes to Zhang Mu. - Overnight at Lhatse in Hotel - Gyantse to Lhatse: 245 km 4 hrs drive. - Elevation of Lhatse: 3950 m. 12,956 ft. - Highlights of the days: Tashilungpu Monastery DAY 14: DRIVE, LHATSE TO SAGA Early morning drive to Saga from Shigatse. It is a long drive via Lhatse and Sang Sang, so we need to commence our journey early morning. - Overnight in Guesthouse in Saga - Lhatse to Saga: 446 km. 7 hrs. - Altitude of Saga: 4480 m ft. DAY 15: DRIVE, SAGA TO MANASAROVAR Morning after breakfast you will set off from Saga. The journey should be started early in the morning because you have to cross a significant distance today. After crossing near about 150 km you will reach Page 3 of 15

4 Old Dzongba. This is the habitat of Tibet herders. From old Dzongba, you will continue drive to Paryang through high passes and wide pastures en route. Paryang is a small town with the Chinese military base. The village is situated in a wide-open pasture land which is facing Himalaya. So, the weather of this place is harsh. From Paryang, you will continue your journey to the west. On the way, we will stop in Horchu river where there is a military check post. After completing formalities of security check and others, we will drive for another 10 minutes beyond the check post and make a brief halt for lunch. It is another two hours journey to reach Manasarovar from Mayum La. The holy dip & pooja can be performed either today or tomorrow depending on the time you are reaching there and of course, with no doubt, the weather plays a vital role for this. The decision can be made after mutual discussion amongst guide, group manager and tour leader. - Overnight Guesthouse dormitory room with common Tibetan styled toilet facility. - Saga to Lake Manasarovar: 455 km 6 hrs. - Altitude of Lake Manasarovar: 4550 m ft. DAY 16: STAY IN LAKE MANASAROVAR Rest in Manasarovar for Pooja and Homa. Overnight Guesthouse dormitory room with common Tibetan styled toilet facility. - Saga to Lake Manasarovar: 455 km 6 hrs. - Altitude of Lake Manasarovar: 4550 m ft. DAY 17: LAKE MANASAROVAR YAMA DWAR - DERAPHUK: Today is the highlighted day of our journey. The most exciting part, sacred circumambulation around Kailash, commences today from Yama Dwara. Morning, after breakfast, we depart from lake strand to Yama Dwar (also called 'Tarboche' in Tibetan) that demands approximately one & half hour to reach there. We should make a brief halt in Darchen because some travel documents obtained from local Police and Army officials as well as we have to make group entry in the region. From Darchen, it is another half an hour to reach Yama Dwara. Our Yaks, porters and horses are waiting here for us. Those who are making circumambulation around Kailash on feet can instantly proceed for Deraphuk; rest of members can commence their journey after taking their horse/s and porter/s. The Total walk to Deraphuk is for 4 to 5 hours but the timing depends on your own pace. The route is quite easy, flat but mild ascend. Due to its extreme elevation, we feel tired while walking and need to have break very frequently. - Overnight at Guesthouse (dormitory room with no toilet facility) - Lake Manasarovar to Yama Dwara: 45 km, 1 & half hour drive. - Yama Dwar Dhriraphuk (10 km): 5 to 6 hours trek. - Elevation of Dhriraphuk: 4920 m./16,138 fts - Expected temperature: day time: 10 to 15 degree Celsius/night time: -5 to -8 degree. - Average climatic condition: windy and partly cloudy & rainy. NOTE: Those members, who are not participating for Kailash circumambulation, will return to Darchen from Yama Dwar and wait until other members come back from the circumambulation. - Overnight at Guesthouse - Elevation of Darchen: 4664 m./15,285 fts. - Expected temperature: day time:- 10 to 15 degree Celsius/night time: -4 to -5 degree. Page 4 of 15

5 - Average climatically condition: windy and partly cloudy DAY 18: TREK; DERAPHUK TO ZUTUL PHUK Today is the toughest & longest journey of this trip. We have to trek almost 22 km through rugged highland to reach Zutulphuk. Literally, we have to pack up our gear and set off from hotel at 5 a.m. Chinese time. Initially, it is an uphill trek from Deraphuk but after walking for an hour or so, the trail turns into mild ascend. Half of the trail passes through an elevation of 4900 m./16,000 ft. or above, so there is no wonder if we get suffered from breathlessness or headache. Though, we should try to keep our pace slow & steady. Please do not forget to carry water bottle, down jacket, raincoat and some dry fruits & chocolates with you. Everybody has different pace of walking. People might not be around when you them. So, you have to be self-dependent in basic things. After making an up hill trek for about 4 hours or so, we will reach to a high pass where we will find Tibetan prayers flags fluttering. This is called Dolma La pass (5800 m.). This is the highest point that we will be crossing over during this divine trip. After making a gentle descend from the pass, we will find our self near a tine glacial lake. This is Gauri Kunda. From Gauri kunda, the trail leads us rapidly down through the area full of boulders and loose pebbles. Going down can be difficult and painful than coming up. If we have taken horse, we can t even use it in this bit. After trekking down for another 1 & half hour or so from Gauri Kunda, we will eventually reach to the valley floor. From this point on, the trail is easy & flat. It is another 2 hours easy-walk to reach Zutulphuk from here. - Overnight Mud house dormitory. - Dhiraphuk to Zutulphuk: 21 km (8-9 hours trek). - Elevation of Zutulphuk: 4820 m./15,810 fts. - Expected temperature: 10 to 15 degree Celsius; Night time: -3 to -5 degree. - Climatic condition: windy DAY 19: END PARIKRAMA THEN RETURN BACK TO LAKE MANASAROVAR After breakfast, we pack up our belongings and set off for further trekking. The distance between Zutulphuk and ending point is about 8 km. Today, we will find the entire trail flat & easy. It takes approximately, 3 hours to complete this journey. At the ending point, we will find our vehicle standing by. We board on the Bus then start driving towards Lake Manasarovar. The lake is approximately 37 km in distance from this particular places and takes about 45 minutes to reach there. We stay overnight at the eastern shore of Lake Manasarovar tonight. Evening, free on our own and independent activities. - Zutulphuk to Trek ending point: 6 km, 3 hours. - Trek ending point to Lake Manasarovar: 37 km, 45 minutes. - Elevation of Lake Manasarovar: 4550 m./14924 fts.: DAY 20: LAKE MANASAROVAR TO SAGA: Today, we will have to cross an extensive distance to reach Saga. We have to start early morning from lake manasarovar, so our gear should be packed before joining for breakfast. After having breakfast, we board on vehicle and move towards to the checkpoint where we will get off from the green vehicle and board on the same vehicle that we had left here before. After shifting all our belongings, we will have a last glimpse of Lake Manasarovar and mount Kailash; then we move on. Page 5 of 15

6 Driving for an hour from the eastern sore of manasarovar will bring us to a beautiful lake on the way. We drive along the bank of this lake for a while then start going up gradually towards the top of Mayum La pass (5200 m.). From Mayum La, we descend to the military check post then continue our journey to Paryang. After Paryang, we drive through sand dunes area and gradually drive up towards another high pass and descend to the wide pasture, the other side. On the way, we will traverse through several Tibetan villages and pastures then eventually reach Dongba. We serve picnic lunch in Dzongba. After lunch we continue our journey to Saga. En route we will cross a bridge over river Brahmaputra then drive towards a high pass and descend to the Saga valley. Saga is situated on the bank of river Brahmaputra. From here, the highway forks in two parts. One leads to Lhasa and the other leads to Zhang Mu via Peiko Tso and Shisapangma area. - Overnight guesthouse ( Multi Sharing room). - Lake Manasarovar to Saga: 455 km. 6 hours. - Elevation of Saga: 4664 m. 15,298 fts. - Expected temperature: daytime- 15 degree Celsius nighttime- -3 to -4 degree. - Climatic condition: windy & dry DAY 21: DRIVE, SAGA TO SHIGATSE Morning after breakfast, We proceed to Shigatse. Arrival, Check-in at hotel. Overnight Stay. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) - Overnight at Hotel (Shigatse). DAY 22: SHIGATSE TO LHASA We have to start early morning from Shigatse for Lhasa. It indeed is a long drive. The final part of the journey will be along the river Bank of the Brahmaputra. The river originates in Kailash and flows all the way to Lhasa then onward to Tsangpo Gorge (east Tibet). There it makes a dramatic bends and drop down to the plain of Asham via Arunchal Pradesh. Evening free on your own. - Overnight at Hotel - Xegar to Lhasa: 271 km 6 hours - Elevation of Lhasa: 3650 m. 11,972 ft. DAY 23: LHASA- KATHMANDU Morning after breakfast, we leave for airport. As per the international rule, we should be at the checking counter two hours in advance. We take spectacular flight to Kathmandu over the mighty Himalaya range. Everest is in our left side while flying to Kathmandu. In Kathmandu; we meet you at the airport & transfer to Hotel. - Overnight Hotel - Lhasa to Airport: 1 hour - Lhasa to Kathmandu flight: 1 hour & 10 minutes - Kathmandu airport to Hotel: 30 minutes DAY 24: AT LEISURE IN KATHMANDU Today you are free in Kathmandu on your own. You can do shopping or other independent activities. Page 6 of 15

7 DAY 25: DEPARTURE It is time to say goodbye! We will transfer you to Tribhuvan International airport for your flight back home. Reporting time is three hours in advance. (Breakfast) PRICE INCLUDES: Return economy class international flights Economy class air ticket from Kathmandu Lhasa Return Arrival / departure transfers - Private Accommodation on twin/ triple sharing at 5 star hotel in Kathmandu Only, Guest houses or tents during yatra (Triple rooms are usually a Twin/ Double room with a single roll away bed or mattress), Multiple sharing outside Kathmandu in Tibet part. All Vegetarian Meals (Full Board) Cable Car fee for Manokamna Temple Kathmandu / Pokhara & Pokhara / Kathmandu transfer by A/C Dlx. Van Sector: Flight to Pokhara / Jomsom / Pokhara by Fixed wing aircraft Janakpur to Kathmandu flight Accomodation at Jomsom / Muktinath on simple full board basis and Conservation Fee. Jeep at Jomsom All entrance fees Tibet part by Bus PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE: Travel Insurance Evacuation Cost by helicopter or Overland Nepal Visa fee (Available on arrival at Kathmandu airport) Extra cost in the event of landslide for hiring Porterage or additional transportation Expenses of personal nature. Tip 35 per person Pony or Porter for Kailash Parikrama Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or other place, if arrive early in case of evacuation Medical and other expenses in case of emergency and evacuation Single Supplement in Kathmandu, Lhasa, Pokhara, Chitwan and Janakpur only: 650 Any flight deviation, will be charged accordingly Please Note: This Itinerary is for guidance purpose only and can be changed during Yatra due to circumstances Items provided by Skylink: (Free of Charge) 1. Shoulder Bag, Holdall, Cap, Walking Stick, Water Bottle, Rudraksh Mala, Sphatik Shivling 2. Down Jacket on returnable basis KAILASH MANSAROVAR VIA LHASA With Muktinath & Janakpur - 25 DAYS (PRIVATE MIN. 8 PAX) Adult : 4095 per adult - (YOUR OWN DATES IN MID MAY- MID JUNE AND WHOLE SEPTEMBER) Page 7 of 15

8 Booking Conditions It is our most important aim that you enjoy your holiday and that we earn your trust. However, we are not responsible for any cancellation due to any industrial disputes, Technical failure of any type of transport we use, loss of earnings, late arrivals or force majeure, or any items beyond our control CANCELLATION BY YOU 1) Our normal cancellation charges apply as a percentage of the total holiday cost. If you cancel the holiday we will require notice in writing for any cancellation: 56 days or more before departure Loss of deposit only 55 to 28 days before departure 50% 27 to 14 days before departure 80% 13 to the day of departure 100% No show 100% CANCELLATION BY US 2 a) If we cancel the tour at any point due to force majeure or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, no refund and compensation will be made. It is customer s liability to have a comprehensive travel insurance to recover all charges incurred either before starting or during the tour. Force Majeure or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control include but not limited to political unrest, natural calamities, act of God, terrorism, war or threat of war, civil strife, industrial dispute including air traffic control disputes, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural and nuclear disaster, fire or adverse weather conditions, epidemics & pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport, closure or congestion of airports or ports and all similar events outside our or the supplier(s) concerned's control. 2 b) We reserve the right to cancel your holiday for any reason. However we will not cancel your holiday unless it is for a reason outside our control i.e. minimum numbers required for group which is 20. If we have to cancel your holiday except other reasons of clause 2a), we will offer you:- alternative travel arrangements of equivalent or of very closely similar standard and price, if available travel arrangements of a lower standard and a refund of the difference in price; or a full refund of all monies paid.. If flight ticket has been issued, flight cancellation charges will be applicable under any circumstances and are non-refundable. Amount will be informed to the client at the cancellation time. If client has paid by credit card, credit card charges are non-refundable under any circumstances. 3) Application should be submitted at least 60 days before the provisional date of departure. Skylink will confirm your booking within 15 days of your application. Any amendment required after booking must be informed to Skylink in writing only. 4) As yatra contains visiting High altitude areas, Customer must consult their GP and get advice before booking travel to high altitude area. This is passenger s own responsibility to disclose correct medical condition information to us. 5) When the booking is made the following details must be enclosed: Fully Filled Booking Form (Full name as in passport, Date of birth, Nationality, Sex, Occupation and other details as mentioned in the booking form), Coloured Passport Copy, Visa Document (if applicable). Deposit is required along with booking form. Deposit is Non Refundable. 6) 100% money should be paid before 60 days of the commencement of the tour. 7) This is religious pilgrimage at high altitude and some of the services would be very basic. 8) Tour Manager s service will be available for Minimum 20 paying adults. 9) During the tour, the tour manager s decision would be final 10) Single traveller has option to pay single supplement or can share with other single travellers at their own discretion. Skylink has no responsibility but just act as an introducer to both travellers. (if any available or wish so) 11) We are not responsible for your luggage, personal money or belongings. We advise that if lockers are available in the hotel please use them. Do not have luxury or expensive items with you whilst you are on holiday. 12) Tour Itinerary can be changed without notice, before or during the trip, due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control such as Political Unrest, Natural Calamities etc. Further charges can be applicable for alternate arrangements and will be borne by Client. If client refuses to pay and cancels the tour or makes alternate arrangements on their own, NO REFUND for unused part and NO COMPENSATION will be given. 13) This is the passenger s responsibility to have proper travel insurance up to 6000 metres including evacuation at high altitude in case of any emergency. NO TRAVEL WITHOUT COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL INSURANCE. The passenger must provide us a copy of travel insurance before start of the tour. 14) This yatra is based on special permit being provided by Chinese authorities and permit can be provided or refused before or after arrival in Kathmandu. Usually Permit is applied 4-5 weeks in advance of proposed date of travel and If permit has been refused or not granted by Chinese authorities for any reasons or entry to Tibet is refused beyond our control then Skylink Travel & Tours Ltd. Is not liable for that and charges will be applicable and if any refund is applicable then amount will be informed to the client after any deductions. 15) I accept and agree all risks associated with the journey and further agree to abide by the terms and conditions of Skylink Travel & Tours Ltd., as described here and its brochures and publication. In The event of illness, accident, weather, political unrest, flight cancellations due to Page 8 of 15

9 reasons beyond our control, change in the airport or airlines taxes, cancellation of helicopter flight and other factors beyond their control, I will not hold Skylink Travel & Tours Ltd., its agents associate or employees responsible or liable for damages. I understand and I travel at my own risk. PLEASE READ OUR GENERAL INFORMATION BEFORE BOOKING Page 9 of 15

10 KAILASH GENERAL INFORMATION FOR LHASA TRIP Clothing: Clothing for both extremes of climate and temperature. While driving to Kailash, it will be warm inside the vehicle and light clothing will be required, but when you step out of the vehicle, warm clothing will be required to keep off the cold winds of the Tibetan Plateau. Evening will be generally cold and warm clothing will be required. We recommend that you bring the following clothing and accessories with you; 1 Down Jacket one (Provided by us on returnable basis) 2 Warm thick pullover One 3 Warm thin pullover One 4 Light loose cotton pants or waterproof trousers - Two 5 Warm windproof jacket One 6 Cotton full sleeve T-Shirts Three 7 Thermal under pants/long Two 8 Thermal vest / warm full sleeve T-Shirts Two 9 Rain Gear-Your raincoat or Poncho should be roomy and have a water proof hood. One 10 Waterproof hiking or trekking shoes with rubber sole for better grip. 11 Light tennis shoes or light rubber sandals (FOR KATHMANDU, POKHARA & JANAKPUR) 12 Warm woolen socks- Six pairs 13 Large cotton or silk scarf or muffler -One 14 Leather warm gloves. 15 Soft paper tissue and Wet Wipes - Plenty 16 Monkey cap or Balaclava cap and Sun lotion - one each 17 Towels (one big, one small) 18 Knee Caps: To keep knees warm in cold weather 19 Dust Masks 20 Bed sheet, Air Pillow 21 Dry Shampoo 22 Dry Fruit 23 Rehydrated powder or sachets Accessories 1. Personal First Aid Kit, Torch with extra batteries Set of Sun Glasses, Sun Hat, Water bottle- Binoculars recommended, Mobile phone and charger, Pocket knife, Chap stick, Moisturizers, Money pouch/belt etc., 2. Walking stick and Water bottle, Holdall, Shoulder Bag (Will be provided by us) PREPARATION AND PRECAUTIONS FOR KAILASH- MANSAROVAR YATRA 1) All yatris should start walking a minimum of 5km (3 miles) a day, at least 2-3 months before of their yatra begins. Start with normal, increase to brisk walk and practice walking up hill. 2) Preferably 1 month prior to your yatra have 1 glass of warm water every day in the morning after brush & 1 glass warm water before going to sleep at night. This will help you digest warm water 24 hours during kailash yatra and even help to clear the working system of your body and reduce old cough and cold which can create problems for breathing in high altitudes. 3) Once you reach Kathmandu, Yatri can take Diamox tablet half in the morning and half at night after food, this will help to reduce altitude sickness. If at all you get loose motion, please do not stop taking Diamox. You may take diahorea tablets with Diamox to reduce the effect. This problem will be there for couple of days. All yatris Page 10 of 15

11 will have the altitude sickness to a lesser degree or more depending on their health. All yatris must drink 3 to 4 litres of water every day to avoid dehydration. This medicine is just a recommendation from Skylink and is the choice of each individual to take or not. 4) On your yatra, during sleep, please do not cover your mouth with the blanket as you may end up with hibreathing. 5) Wherever you stay at night in Tibet make sure there is ample air circulation in the room. Due to the lack of oxygen you may feel breathing is heavy. 6) Have as much liquid as possible (3 4 litres), which will stop you becoming dehydrated. 7) Please avoid glucose powder in water as it may cause cough in the chest which can again create hi-breathing. Instead of glucose please have energy drinks. 8) During yatra always cover your body properly especially your forehead/chest/ears to protect from chill wind. This can help you to keep stamina at high altitudes. 9) In Tibet because of high altitude every yatri may get a little bit of headache. To reduce this problem you can have an energy drink which gives you quick energy and reduces headache (Not for Diabetic). Red Bull drink is available in cans from the local shops in Tibet. 10) On your way to Kailash/Mansarovar you won t find bathrooms in your rooms. At certain places, public baths (shower) facilities are available (at a cost) but the advice will be NOT to use these for the simple reason that as soon as you are out of these places you may catch cold and you may end up with more problems before reaching Mansarovar (which is at a very high altitude). Local people do not have bath for long period (as we have heard they have a quick shower/bath once a year), but they are still fit and fine. In our experience whoever takes bath or shower, gets ill easily, well before they reach Mansarovar. When coming back from Kailash you can take hot shower (if time permits), at these places, as coming down to low altitude you might have less problem. 11) Pranayam: long breath in and long breath out everyday for 10 minutes and 3 times in a day will help you to acclimatize. 12) At high altitudes you may not feel you want to eat lunch or dinner. If that is the case, then you should take plenty of liquid food to keep your energy high and body fit to make the Parikrama. 13) In Tibet don't run, don't walk fast, don't carry heavy luggage for long periods and don't talk loudly. 14) While on parikrama please don't carry so much luggage and while walking avoid talking. If you feel restless or breathing heavy while walking, please rest for at least ten minutes and do pranayam. You will feel better after 15 minutes and then start walking again. Please do not force yourself unnecessarily. 15) Before going for a bath/dip in the holy Lake Mansarovar please have some dry food, nuts or dried fruits and then take 1 paracetamol tablet. Then go for bath/dip in Mansarovar. As the water in the lake will be very cold, please do NOT stay in the water unnecessarily for longer period (max will be 2-3 minutes). 16) Please carry enough and necessary items in your shoulder bag so that you can easily find the items you require. Most of the time you will only carry some dried foods, sweets and your essential medication for parikrama. 17) Please feel free to talk with Nepali staff for health precautions or if you are in doubt to do Parikrama. Our staff and Sherpas are well trained and very experienced for Tibet area and Parikrama. 18) Keep your mind calm and don't get angry necessarily or unnecessarily with any one, as high anger may cause headache in high altitude. Page 11 of 15

12 19) As the water contains oxygen, please drink as much water as possible as mentioned above to avoid dehydration and to a greater extent to avoid headache and any sickness. I would recommend drinking lots of water from NOW. THE ABOVE RECOMMENDED FOOD AND DRINKS ARE FOR NON DIABETIC PEOPLE. IF YOU ARE DIABETIC THEN PLEASE USE ALTERNATE FOOD OR DRINKS SUITABLE FOR DIABETIC. Transportation and immigration during Kailash Yatra Kathamandu to Lhasa is by plane. Immigration is done at Lhasa. From Lhasa to Mansarovar is by bus or van. While on trek, during the Parikrama, we provide Yaks to carry the camping & your personal heavy gear. Rules of immigration or customs can be changed any time by Chinese authorities before or during the yatra and we have no control over these changes. Due to these changes sometimes it can effect tour itinerary as well. Weather effect on tour Weather plays a very prominent part of Kailash Yatra. July August can be warm during days and severe cold during nights. We might reroute or replan the yatra at the last minute without any consultation with the group. Our main aim of rerouting or replanning is for best of the yatris to do darshan of Kailash and Mansarovar. If any one wants to opt out of it then no refund will be given under any circumstances. Weather effect on Muktinath Part: Muktinath yatra depends upon small winged aircraft landing or take off to/from Jomsom airport. Because this airstrip is at high altitude and take off/landing heavily depends upon weather so Muktinath yatra has very low success rate any time of the year especially during monsoon months. So Muktinath yatra can be cancelled if not allowed due to weather conditions or other circumstances beyond our control and no refund will be given. Alternatively we can arrange yatra by road which is very long and very tiring. Transportation used for Muktinath is very basic and will be non/ac vehicles and 6-8 people or more will be sharing the vehicle. If we decide to do Muktinath by road then we might not be able to visit other places and no refund will be given Communication The last place to make any international calls is in Darchen, Tibet. However, please be informed that it may be difficult at times to get connection. The best way to communicate back home is to carry Home network mobile phone and use text message service. It s recommended that you disable your voic service while on yatra because listening to voic messages can be very expensive. THIS IS JUST A SUGGESTION. Travel Tips for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Accommodation: Accomdation is good in Kathmandu,Pokahra and Lhasa and twin/triple rooms are available in Kathmandu, Lhasa, Pokhara and Jankapur only and rest will be very simple with a room on quad or more occupancy with common bathrooms and toilets wherever available. However, hot water will be provided in every room for refreshing and for drinking. Triple room can be one double bed and extra bed or mattress. Tented and guest house accommodation can be multi sharing. The condition of the beds and bed-sheets can be very basic during the yatra beyond Kathmandu and might be dirty. That s why we recommend to take your own bedsheet and airpillow. Food: The food will be supplied from our side while camping - breakfast, lunch & dinner with occasional tea break. The food will be very simple as per the clients taste. All meals provided will be vegetarian. There is no restaurant type sitting for food in Tibet. Clothing & Accessories: Page 12 of 15

13 Depending upon the season, during June, July, August till September, day time will be pleasant and quite warm with about degrees Celsius. Afternoon time 1-4 pm can be windy. The morning and evening will be chilly between minus 2 to 0 degree Celsius. We recommend the clothing suggested above. Guide/ Escort: A Tibetan/ English speaking guide will escort the group including few Nepali staff for the camping. Photography: Tibet gets very bright sunlight due to thin air, so photographs can have a glare. We recommend you to take advice from the photographic shop or from Google. Taking photographs inside the monastery will be charged as per Monastery rule. Please ask your guide before taking photographs inside the monastery. Do not take photos of any security personnel or establishment. Medicine: We suggest you bring your own first aid kit with adequate medication regarding altitude sickness, nausea, dehydration and some pain killers. Insurance: We highly recommend all clients to be insured against Medical, accidents & necessary emergency evacuation, if needed. We suggest that clients insure themselves against a Comprehensive claim policy which should also include Helicopter Evacuation up to 6000 metres, if necessary. SOME ANNUAL MULTI TRIP INSURANCES DO NOT COVER UP TO 6000 METRES. Please note that our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Tour Package does not include any emergency rescue or evacuation expenses. Any Emergency arrangement other than regular straight forward tour itinerary service should be borne by the client themselves. Physical Fitness: Before booking for this trip with us, clients should be in sound good health. In preparation for this trip, we advise 3-4 miles of morning or evening walk or jogging & also Pranayam (Breathing in & Breathing out exercise regularly minutes at least 3 months in advance) Visa & Documentation: Clients must be in possession of at least nine months valid passport to obtain visa. We will require the following details of your passport at the time of booking the trip - Full Name as in Passport, Nationality, Date of issue & expiry of Passport, Passport No, Date of Birth & Occupation, coloured copy of the passport & one recent coloured passport size photograph. Tibet permit will be arranged by us and is included in the package price. Nepal visa can be obtained either from Nepal Embassy or on arrival in Kathmandu (Visa fee approximately 30 or $40 per person). When you land at Kathmandu airport, you will fill the entry form and visa form which can be obtained at the airport. One must fill 30 days or one month multi entry visa required in the form. One does not need Indian visa if not staying in India. We apply Tibet permit in advance and then apply for Chinese visa once group arrive in Kathmandu. The rules of visa can be changed anytime by Chinese authorities before or during yatra and it might affect the yatra and might cost extra to the client. Passport copy and photos: One should carry two coloured passport copies and 4 passport size photographs for emergency. Luggage: Luggage should be kept at minimum and only essential luggage should be carried. We will provide holdall for Kailash yatra to carry the luggage and you can bring along your own shoulder bag if you want to. Holdall provided is not waterproof, so one should pack it with some sort of polythene cover inside. Your main luggage would be left in Kathmandu hotel. One medium size suitcase (26-28 inches) and one hand luggage is allowed to take to Kathmandu (avoid trolley bag). Maximum baggage allowance of check in bag is 20 kilos and hand luggage upto 5 kilos. For Muktinath and Kailash trip, your main suitcase can be left in Kathmandu, but it must be locked all the times. Personal belongings: One must take care of personal belongings and should leave any unattended luggage always locked even inside the hotel room. Please don t leave any valuables inside the luggage. Please don t carry any expensive gold or diamond items from home. Skylink or its partners do not take any responsibility of Page 13 of 15

14 any personal belongings. Altitude Sickness: Acute mountain sickness is a frequent problem in the Himalayan region. The altitude of the peaks and trails between them are among the highest on earth. Acclimatization to altitude takes time. The body undergoes a number of physiological changes some of which are immediate like increased pulse rate & respiratory rate. Others appear more slowly over a period of weeks like the change in acid base balance and production of extra red blood cells. Headache, Nausea, Dysentry and Dehydration is common. This is passenger s own responsibility to find themselves if he/she is fit enough to do this yatra at high altitude and Its passenger s own responsibility to get medical advice, if required about this yatra before booking. We will not be held responsible for any kind of damages or loss of income if one falls ill due to Altitude sickness. Oxygen: We provide oxygen in emergency only. Try to avoid oxygen intake. Medical Help : Basic Medical help is available in Taklakot and Darchen. If one has been advised not to go higher when fallen sick then must follow medical advice. Emergency Evacuation: If one falls ill then emergency evacuation depends upon the place of fallen ill either by road or in extreme case by helicopter from nearest Nepal/Tibet border. When emergency evacuation is done by helicopter, the helicopter in Nepal is not an Air ambulance. Proper medical facilities are available in Kathmandu only. Emergency Exit Permit: In case of emergency, evacuation depends where you are being evacuated from. Original Tibet permit needs to be changed with emergency exit permit which is payable by the client on the spot. Now it s at the discretion of Chinese authorities to give exit permit to evacuee only or to any accomplice as well. It also takes time to rearrange emergency exit permit. This can affect emergency evacuation and its beyond our control. Exchange of Currency: Nepal accepts Indian rupees, but not in 500 and 2000 Rs. Denomination. It s illegal to carry 500 or 2000 Rs. Notes in Nepal. Chinese currency is Yuan. It s advisable to carry about Rs and Yuan We recommend to get Yuan from your country of residence. Extra Expenses: For personal spending and for Pony/Porter and in case of evacuation which will be borne by the client. For example: Road transport to the border, any type of medical expenses including hospital stay, extra night hotel and so on. If someone gets evacuated and returns early to Kathmandu then extra night hotel charges will be applicable and one must pay all the expenses in Kathmandu. These can be reimbursed by relevant insurance company. Eligible for Yatra: Anyone from the age of 18-65/70 is eligible for this yatra as long as they are physically fit and can travel without providing medical certificate. Everyone must fill our health form and if we see anything negative then we could ask for a GP or consultant certificate. Minimum age for this yatra is 18. One who has history of heart ailment, asthma, Angina should avoid this yatra. Pony/Porter hire: We recommend hiring both pony and porter. Pony and porter can t be shared. Pony will be available to go on the top of Dolmala Pass, but will not bring one down. Approximate hire rate of pony and porter is approx. Yuan They can be booked only after Talkakot WE HAVE NO CONTROL OVER PONY HIRE OR HOW PONY HANDLERS OR PORTERS BEHAVE. THEY ARE LOCAL NOMAD PEOPLE AND HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF ENGLISH OR CUSTOMER SERVICE. Kailash parikrama gets covered over three days. Sometime if parikrama is done for a day then still client will be charged for full three days, this is local rule set by Tibetans. Pony hire or porter hire is entirely client s own choice. Our team in Tibet only provide assistance for pony/porter hire and we can t be held responsible if you are not satisfied with pony handler/porter services. Pony/porter service is available on supply/demand. If there are more groups and less pony/porter available then sometimes you might not get this service even if you have booked and paid one day earlier or on same day. These things are beyond our control. Parikrama: Parikrama of Mansarovar is 96km. And is covered by bus. Kailash s outer Parikrama is 52km. And Page 14 of 15

15 takes about 3 days. You cross highest point on second day of Parikrama which is Dolmala pass, at a height of feet. ONE MUST NOT INSIST DOING PARIKRAMA IF ONE HAS BEEN ADVISED AGAINST DOING IT. WHO WILL DO PARIKRAMA, DECISION WILL BE TAKEN ONLY AT MANSAROVAR. Personal Equipment Check-List: You need at least 3 pair of change of your clothing for this trip. Shorts, skirt or lightweight trousers are ideal in the heat of the day along with T-shirt for plain areas of Nepal, long sleeved cotton shirts and sun hat. During the evening and the higher altitudes warm clothing will be needed, breeches or tracksuit. Well fitting, comfortable waterproof hiking boots are preferred over training shoes for the actual trekking and clothing will be required for both extremes of climate, for hot sun when trekking through the lower foothills to freezing temperatures at night when camping. General Considerations when Packing: Keep the weight and bulk down to a minimum. Baggage allowance on most international flights is 20 Kg. Most people tend to bring more clothes than they actually need. You will only need one change of clothes for Kathmandu. On trek it is important to dress in layers. When it is hot you will only be wearing a base layer, when it gets colder you can add to this until you are wearing most of your clothes! YATRA IS NOT RECOMMENDED WEARING SARI. Punjabi Suits and track suits are recommended. Personal Medical Kit: We suggest that you bring the following:- Elasticated knee and /or ankle support if you experience strain these joints Blister dressings, e.g. moleskin, compead, spenco dressings Nasal Decongestant, Throat lozenges Anti -diarrhoea - Immodium or similar Cold and flu suppressant, Aspirin or Paracetamol. Rehydrate powder - useful for adding to your water bottle and for fluid replacing purposes. Small pair of scissors, Thermometer, Muscle relaxant, any special medicines you require Tibet Travel Tips Time difference: Although Tibet has several different time zones, the Chinese government has decided that China, with Tibet as autonomous area, only has one time zone. The time difference with the UK is + 7hrs. In the winter it's + an extra hour. Voltage: Tibet has the same voltage as China, 220V. You'll need a universal electrical plug for your Tibet trip. Hygiene and Cleanliness: Hygeine and cleanliness is less than basic in Tibet. So don t compare hygiene or cleanliness in guest houses, hotels or eating places with other parts of the world. If you are concerned about hygiene then think twice before booking this yatra. Using a public bathroom during your Tibet trip will be quite a memorable experience. The bad news is the hygiene is usually quite poor and there's no privacy. Even if there is a door on the toilet, Tibetans usually leave it open. One of our Tibet travel tips for all travelers is... bring along your own toilet paper or tissues! It also doesn't hurt to have some anti-bacterial soap towels and disinfectant with you. Our Staff: Due to nature of this yatra, our staff works most of the time against odds and we request our clients to be considerate and should be cooperative if any changes have done during the yatra. Page 15 of 15