NEPAL

TREKING GENERAL INFORMATION

SERVICES INTERNATIONAL

The Nepal Himalaya has always been known as " The abode of the Gods ". Many of the primordial history, religion , culture, and tradition as well as legends and myths emanate from awesome Himalaya . The Nepal Himalaya barbors many holy temples and shrines, monastries and sacred lakes in the wilderness and remote parts of the region . These sites are frequently visited by pilgrims. It is a land of piety and stillness. The Himalayas is the youngest and highest mountain chain on earth. A full third of its stretchs - the formidable Great Himalayan Range of 800 kms lies within the Nepal Himalaya. It has a covergence of 1,310 magnificent peaks over 6,000 meters, including 8 of the worlds highest 14 peaks of 8000 meters. Nestling iin the rain shadows of these unique vistas of soaring summits unravel a profusion of lofty foothills, the home of many Nepalese who delight in warm hospitality and frendship . These verdant terraced hills meander down to lush green valleys with turbulent rivers & to the tropical lowland and teeming with countless wildlife. In its immensely diverse and undulating topography , varid climate and mix of people Nepal combines to produce a magical attraction for outsiders. Many foreign visitors come to trek one or more beautiful trekking regions. To trek ,one does not have to be bizarre, neither a mountaineer nor a athlete. Anyone with a pair of strong legs, and the spirit for adventure to explore the exotic, will enjoy the thrills of trekking in the hills of Nepal. Walking in the interior of the country follows ancient foot trails for which meander through the scenic river banks, intricately terraced fields and the forested ridges connecting picturesque hamlets mountain villages . These highly developed and well defined trails have been used for centuries and are the hive of activities to come in contact with the locals. For visitors on extended holiday and with less restraints, there is an even more varied spectrum of adventure - be it rafting on the sparkling rivers , safaries in the jungles, trekking to explore deeper into the alpine valley with perpetual snow and glistenning glaciers. The more intrepid traveller may venture further up to scale any of the 18 minor trekking peaks.

VISA AND TREKKING PERMIT : Unlike some countries with strict visa regulations, Nepal extends trouble free issuance of visa to all the citizens worldwide. Indian nationals do not require visa to enter Nepal. The Royal Nepalese Embassies or consulates abroad and at entry point immegration offices provide a one month visa upon the presentation of a valid passport , two passport size photos and a payment of equivalent of US$ 40 for single entry , US$ 70 for double entry and US$ 100 multiple entry respectively . Visitors entering Nepal without a visa may also obtain 30 day visa from department of immegration , Tridevi Marg ( Tel 412337 428573 ) Kathmandu a payment of additional 25% in rupees with the added a payment of entry point. Visas can be extended at the Immigration Department, Kathmandu or at Immigration Office, Pokhra. A trekking permit is required to trek in any part of Nepal. If trekking is planned in two different areas, two trekking permits are required. The Department of Immigration located at Tridevi Marg, Thamel (Tel.412337) issues trekking permit for the tourists who intend to trek any part of the country . Trekking permit fee for different trekking areas are fixed as follows :

Trekking Areas Trekking permit fee :

1. Annapurna,Everest Equivalent to US$ 5 per person per Langtang,Rara etc. week for the first four weeks and US$ 10 per week there after.

2. Dolpa and Kanchanjunga Equivalent to US$ 10 per person per week for first four weeks and US$ 20 per week there after.

3. Manaslu US$ 75 per person per week.

4. Mustang and Upper Dolpa US$ 700 per person for the first 10 days and US$ 70 per person per day thereafter.

NATIONAL PARKS :

Eight areas of Nepal have been designated national parks. They are Langtang,Rara,Royal Chitwan, Sagarmatha(Everest), Shey Phoksondo, Khapad, Bardia and Barun National Parks. To trek in any of these national park area a part permit in necessary which can be obtained at the park entrance on payment of Rs.650/- each. Similarly trekkers are required to pay Rs. 200/- for every trekker going into the Annapurna Region payable at the Immegration offices while getting trekking permit, which is utilised for the environment conservation and maintenance of the area. There are several government registered trekking agencies in Nepal to conduct such trekking programmes. In order to have assumed quality and safe treks it is advisable to use them.

WORKING HOURS : The Immigration Office is open from 10.00 to 17.00 hours from February 13th to November 16th from 10.00 to 16.00 hours from November 17th to February 12th sunday through Thursday. On friday it is closed at 15.00 hours . Visa extension and trekking permit applications are accepted from 10.00 to 13.00 p. m on Friday. The immegration Offices remain closed on saturdays and on other government holidays.

FLIGHT TO REMOTE AREAS : Royal Nepal Airlines, the national flag carrier, offers extensive domestic air services to almost all the parts of the country. Taplejung, Bhojpur, Meghauli, Pokhara, jomosom, Manang,Jhumla,Dolpa,Sanphebagar are the the remote destinations where one can take a flight from kathmandu. The other domestic airlines such as Nepal Airways, Everest Air, Necon Air and Himalayan Helicaptor also provide regular and charter services to different popular domestic destinations.

TREKKING SEASON : Trekking in Nepal can be undertaken throught the year. There are four seasons in Nepal. Each season has its distinct attractions to offer. The seasons are classified as follows:

• Autumn ( Sep-Nov) This season offers excellent weather and tantalising mountain views.

• Winter ( Dec-Feb) This season is noted for occasional snowfall only at higher elevations,generally below 3000 meters.

• Spring ( March-May) Different varities of wild flowers, specially the rhododendrons make the hillside 5000 meters a haunting paradise during this season. It is mildly warm at lower elevations and at higher elevation over 4000 meters the mountain views are excellent and temperature is quite moderate.

• Summer ( Jun-Aug) Summer months, continues up to mid September making travel wet and warm. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation.

MEDICAL MATTERS & ADVICE : Trekking in Nepal need not be considered risky affair as far as your health is concerned. Nevertheless. preventive measures such as a thorough medical check up and inocullations before you start trekking can save you from unexpected hazards. Since the remote places of Nepal are not supplied with necessities that are essential for modern medical facilities, and as the rescue and evacuation are measured in days, it is impressive to make a comprehensive First Aid Box consisting of basic drugs and accessories as part of the paraphernalia for trekking. Various trekking guide books and the pamphlet published by the Himalayan Rescue Association ivesbyou detailed information on a complete list of medical supplies. These guide books are easily available in the book-shops of kathmandu. In case of serious illness or injury, prompt evacuation to kathmandu is the best remedy. Modern dentistry is unknown in the hills of Nepal, so it is advised to have a checkup before departure from home. Toth fillings sometimes loosen in cold temperatures and at high altitudes, so it is recommended to have them checked.

FITNESS : All trekking demands a level of fitness that will enable one to put a good days walking, up hill and down.The best preparation for trekking is cycling, swimming,jogging, squash,tennish, and long walks involving up and down hill. Good physical conditioning will probably help for the maximum enjoyment of the treks.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS : Altitude sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3,000 meters. The initial symptoms of AMS are as following : - Nausea,vomiting - loss of apetite - insomnia/sleeplessness - Persistent headache - Dizziness, light headedness,confusion - Disorientation, drunken gait - Weakness,fatigue,lassitude, heavy legs - Sight swelling of hands and face - Breathlessness and Breathing irregularity - Reduced urine output These symptoms are to be taken very seriously. In case of appearence of any of the above symptoms any further ascent should be reconsidered; otherwise more serious problems can occur which can even cause death sometimes within a few hours, the only cure for the altitude sickness is to descend to a lower elevations immediately. Acclimatization by ascending to no more than 300 to 500 meters per day above 3,000 meters and the proper amount of rest are the best methods for prevention of AMS.

HIMALAYAN RESCUE ASSOCIATION : HRA is a nepalese voluntary organisation registered with his majestys Government to run a rescue service in the mountain tourist areas. The Associations major role is the prevention and treatment of mountain sickness. The associations medical research work is undertaken by a team of foreign doctors at present.

HRA OPERATES TWO - TREKKERS AID POST - AS FOLLOWS :

EVEREST AREA At pheriche on the main trail to Everest Base Camp, one day north of Thyanboche. This Aid post is well equipped and staffed by two Western doctors during main trekking season. All trekkers intending to go to Kala Pathar and Everest Base Camp are advised to contact the Pheriche Aid Post.

MANANG AREA At Manang village in Manang. The Aid Post, is well noticeable and has a sign posted.Regular talks on dangers of altitude sickness are given here alternate day during trekking season. The Aid Post is staffed by a Western doctor. trekkers intending to cross Thorong La Pass and visiting the surrounding areas are advised to contact the HRA aid post either Chindi or at Manang.

MEDICAL, RESCUE TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION FACILITIES on some major trekking routes are given below :-

1. EVEREST AND KANCHENJUNGA TREKS A small hospital and an airstrip at Jiri, Phaplu and Khunde. Similarly a medical facility operated by HRA is situated at Pheriche.

2. HELAMBU, GOSAINKUNDA AND LANGTANG modern medical facilities are not available in the Helasmbu area. For Gosaikunda and Langtang, there is a government hospital at Trishuli Bazaar and a dispensary at Dhunche. There is also radio and telephone link to Kathmandu at Trishuli bazaar. An airstrip is located near Kyangjin in Langtang Valley.

3. AROUND POKHARA, LAMJUNG, JOMSOM,MUKTINATH & MANANG Pokhra has an all-weather airport, good telecommunication network and modern hospital.District hospitals are located in Banglung, Bensishar and Jomsom. There is a trekkers Aid post run by the Himalayan Rescue Association in Mansang.

4. JUMLA & RARA Airstrips are located in Dhorpatan , Jumla and Simicot. There is a government hospital and a radio station in jumla.A dispensary is run at Gumgadi.

TREKKING ARRANGMENTS : There are different approaches to trekking in Nepal and the choice depends on time available, budget, experience and personal preference. Some of the travel agencies abroad in collaboration with the Nepalese trekking agencies book packages for Nepal in advance.Trekkers who are alone or who do not have much time time can book with these overseas agencies. There are quite a few government recognized trekking agencies which have professional staff to handle trekking activities. A fully equipped trek primerily consists of essential logistical arrangements including porters, guide, cook, food, tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, transport to and from trekking starting points, flight arrangement, permits, staff insurance and so on. These agents also provide a choice of itineraries and necessary information on trekking health care etc. The cost of all inclusive trek ranges from about USD 25 to USD 100 per [erson per day depending upon the quality of service, number of days and number of persons in the package. It is strongly advised not to employ free-lance guides or the services of any agency not recognised by the government.

LIST OF CLOTHING EQUIPMENT & PERSONAL EFFECTS : Light weight walking boots. - A pair of trackshoes. To wear in the camp at night or when boot is wet. - Warm jacket. Fibrefill or down should be adecuate.This is especially necessary during winter from December to February. - A rain proof jacket with a hood or a puncho. - Woolen shirts and thick sweaters. During winter months these items are essential. - A pair of light weight/heavy weight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks. Heavyweight trousers are useful higher up in the morning and at night. - Windproof/waterproof trousers. Necessity on all treks going above 10,000 ft. - Thermal power underwear. These are excellent to sleep in at night. In winter months thermal underwear are quite invaluable. - A tracksuit. Useful for wearing in camp and in the tent. - 1-2 pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts, gloves,woolen socks,swimming costume etc.

EQUIPMENT : Duffle bag or kit bag to carry to gear while trekking. - Day pack. This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day e.g., toilet item, camera, film,soap etc. - Snow glasses, water glasses,wallet,small torch etc. - Snow gaiters essential during winter . - Trekking map - personal medical supplies.

MONEY MATTERS : Nepal has modern banking facilities and some of the international banks have their own offices in kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards such as American Express, Visa and Master-card, etc. are accepted in Nepal. All visitors are required to exchange their money through bank or the authorised agents. In kathmandu banks with money exchange counter. These facilities to change money are quicker and more convinient. It is neccessary to ask for receipts when money is changed. On the return journey, if one is left with Nepalese rupees they can exchange 15% against these receipts to any foreign currency at Tribhuvan international airport Kathmandu. Remember to retain Rs.700 for airport tax when departing Nepal by air.

INTRODUCTION TO MOUNTAINEERING ADVENTURE : For more adventurous traveller, there are 18 minor peaks open for Alpine climbing under Nepal Mountaineering Association. The climbing of these peaks is controlled under the rules and regulations formulated by this Association.Detailed information and application for climbing permits are available from the Associations office or contact your trekking agency in kathmandu.it should be noted that in most cases the climbing of the minor peaks(trekking peaks) require snow and ice climbing experience.Trekking agents provide qualified and trained climbing guides to take nonclimbers for convenience, safety and expected successes. By Himalayan standards these are considered minor peaks, but in fact some of them provide relatively challenging snow and ice climbing of high standard, and more so in winter. The royalty for these peaks ranges from US$ 200 - US$ 300 depending upon the particular peak for upto 10 member climbing team. Peaks currently open for trekking and other groups are as follows :

Name of the peaks Height in meters

1. Mera Peak 6654

2. Chulu Peak 6584

3. Singu Chuli ( Fluted peak ) 6501

4. Hiunchuli 6441

5. Chulu West 6419

6. Kusum Kangaru 6367

7. Parchemuche 6187

8. Imja Tse ( island peak ) 6183

9. Lobuche 6119

10. Pisang 6091

11. Kwangde ( kawande ) 6011

12. Ramdung 5925

13. Paldor Peak 5896

14. Khogma Tse ( mehra ) 5849

15. Kangja Chuli 5844

16. Pokalde 5806

17. Tharpu Chuli ( Tent peak ) 5663

18. Mardi Himal 5587

SOME USEFUL SUGGESTIONS : During trekking sojourn in the hills and the mountains of Nepal you should be aware and remember that you aqre travelling back in time and into the wilderness not usually frequented by many foreigner, away from Nepal, policing. Although the people of the hills of Nepal are exceptionally hospitable, honest and freindly by any standards, the possibilities of some trekkers encountering bad elements who take advantage of foreigners, cannot be eleminated. It would be wise to exercise the following basic rules as regards secuirity and sefety during your trekking - Trekking organised through recognised Trekking Agent ensures comfort and convenience, safety and security and greately affords the unique experience. This approach to trekking not only prevents from any unforeseen hazards and accidents but also provide educational information and rewarding experiences on the moutains, people and life in rural Nepal. - All foreign nationals are required by law to pay their hotel, travel and trekking agents bill in foreign currency. Exchange your money through authorised banks/money changers only. Insist on a receipt when exchanging your money and retainm all exchange receipts with you. - Littering mars the purity of environment. Avoid the use of non- biodegradable items as much as possible. Yours attempts to burn oddments and carry out the unburnable ones will be a great help in the efforts to conserve the environment. - Avoid dispute with local people, most particularly when you are alone. Avoid drunkards and lunatics. - Do not encourage beggars by giving them money or other articles. - Be most economical with all fuel. Avoid hot showers which use firewood and discourage campfires. Avoid lodges using firewood and insist on use of kerosene for cooking to trekking agents. - We stongly recommended not to be travel insurance to cover against illness,accidents,loss and theft of items and materials, travel alternations and deviations, rescues and evacuations. - It is recommended not to travel alone in the remote areas while travelling in Nepal particularly in the case of females. If you donot have a fellow trekker as companion, you should engage a guide/porter except through a third party who has responsibility for the person engaged.