Marymount International School Itinerary Nepal Expedition, October 2014

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1 Marymount International School Itinerary Nepal Expedition, October 2014 Nepal is a landlocked magical country placed between Tibet, Bhutan, India and Kashmir. It has arguably the most dramatic and accessible hiking in the world. Rugged trails to Everest and the Annapurnas provide some of the most stunning and unrivalled mountain scenery this world has to offer. Nepal has an array of incredibly diverse landscapes attractions; from the temple lined medieval squares of Kathmandu to the wild southern national parks, where tigers, rhinos and elephants inhabit the jungles.

2 Itinerary Day 1 Arrival You will be met at Kathmandu International Airport and escorted to the extraordinary capital of Kathmandu. You will be met by your leader and have a safety briefing and sample the local cuisine at your arrival dinner. Day 2 Phase 1 - Kathmandu Valley sightseeing A guided tour of Kathmandu Valley (capital of Nepal) will introduce the cultural and religious heritage of Nepal. You ll visit splendid historic destinations in Katmandu Valley that are listed as World Heritage Sites. This city is the urban core of the Kathmandu valley it has rich culture and has been described to as having a sensory overload. Kathmandu is the countries centre for music and dance and has a treasure of arts, culture and religion. The two main religions are Buddhism and Hinduism. You will have the opportunity to attend Nepalese classes, visit the hidden temples and and explore the courtyards full of drying chillies. Day 3 Nepali language classes and/ or Cooking Lessons A rewarding and interactive introduction to this fascinating language and lots of opportunities to practice your new skills. The students can also participate in cooking lessons giving them a taste of the local flavours and cooking methods.

3 Phase 2 - Activities and Adventure To add diversity to your Nepalise experience we then head off to the beautiful Royal Chitwan National Park. Here you will visit an elephant breeding centre. You will have the opportunity to ride an elephant and search for the famous Bengal Tiger. Or you can take advantage of higher octane activities such as white water rafting and canoeing. This is a unique and memorable way to see Nepal. Jungle walks to Tharu villages give you the chance to get your legs ready and an opportunity to see the famous Thrau stick dance. Day 4 Wake up with refreshing tea and breakfast. Cycle to the elephant breeding centre, visit Tharu village and then return to camp for lunch and rest.

4 After lunch go for a canoe ride and jungle walk. Return to camp to watch the sunset with your evening meal. Day 5 Today we have the chance to stop and do some White Water rafting (weather permitting). This is great fun and also provides you with a different way to view your picturesque surroundings. You ll raft on the rapids of Trishuli River and from there we continue onto Chitwan National Park for welcome drinks and introductory talk by the program manager.

5 Phase 3 Trek Day 6 Travel up to the Annapurna range to get ready for your trek. Day 7 & 8 2 Day Trek The trekking route in and around Annapurna is renowned through the world for its spectacular views of mighty Himalayas and bio diversity present in the landscape. There are several routes you can choose from while trekking in Annapurna. Here you will begin your trek (supported by authentic Sherpas and guides). Sherpas are highly regarded as elite mountaineers and experts in their local terrain. Along the way you will visit traditional teahouses and stop in remote villages. The scenery is breathtaking and gives you an insight into the lives and culture of the Sherpa people. The stunning sunrise on the snow capped peaks is an unforgettable memory.

6 In the interior of Annapurna Circuit lies mystical Tilicho Lake, surrounded by snow covered peaks. Likewise, the upper sub-alpine steppe harbors some of the rarest animals like snow leopards and blue sheep. You ll also encounter tremendous varieties of birds, multi-colored Impeyan and kokla. Many plants native to Nepal are found in this forest. You can also choose to enjoy Annapurna region through an extended 3, 4 or 5 day trek. Depending on the age of students and ability. Day 9 The final stage of the trip is spent with a well earned relaxing rest in Kathmandu where you will enjoy a delicious meal with your new friends and fellow trekkers. Fly back to the UK

7 Price & what is included Price Total cost: 2,400 per person *based on a minimum group size of 10 Includes Excludes Please Note UK briefing day and support *International flights A qualified Gapforce Expedition Leader Transport to/from airport in UK 3 meals per day Local Berber Guides All in-country accommodation & transport 24 hour emergency back-up Evacuation plan T-shirt Travel insurance Vaccinations (if required, check with GP) Visas ( 20 for most passports) Tipping and gratuities Personal items (eg. souvenirs) Personal kit and equipment Spending money Optional activities *Flights The flight prices, and therefore, the overall costs for this trip are accurate ONLY for students who submit an application form by the due date: Thursday 27 th February Students who apply after this date may be able to join the trip but the total cost will reflect changes in flight prices after this time. Deposits A deposit of 1000 must accompany the application form. Please pay this into the School account detailed below: Account name Marymount International School NatWest Account no Sort code BIC/swift code NWBK GB2L IBAN code GB10 NWBK Please put the following details in the reference so the Business Office can identify your payment: Ed tour Nepal name of student Deposits are non-refundable. Final payments are due: 30 th May 2014.

8 Credentials Gapforce has one of the leading records for health and safety. Our membership of the following organisations demonstrates our commitment to each of their governing guidelines and strong codes of practice for overseas expeditions. This group occupies a middle ground between the YET/EPA and BETA providing a forum for members to discuss issues and allows for an independent complaints procedure to be undertaken against its member organisations. As an executive committee member Gapforce is responsible for new membership and safety. They look at our operating authored The EPA is one of several industry regulating bodies. our financial creditability (like BETA) and also look at procedures and risk assessments. They have their own guidelines based on the BS8848 A member of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Know Before You Go campaign. We receive security information directly from the FCO and have links with embassies in country Member of the YET - a national charity dedicated to promoting safe and responsible expeditions for young people. They also allow some conformity to between all companies involved. BETA is an independent group who represent the UK travel industry. They lobby on behalf of the government for educational travel. BETA reviews our corporate creditability and make sure we are a financially stable company.