Nepal is a sovereign, independent Hindu Kingdom in South Asia. It is a landlocked, third world country, and is only the country in south Asia that has never been ruled by a foreign power. It is situated in between two mighty nations India to south and north to the autonomous Tibet, of "China" On the world map it is situated within 26º22' to 30º27' North latitude and 84º4' to 88º12 East longitude on the Northern Hemisphere of earth. It is tiny but truly one of the most wonderful country in the world. It covers 147,181 sq. km. Area of the world which is 0.03% of the world's land mass and 0.3% of Asia. Its east-west length is 885 km and North to South wide is in average193km. The highest point is Mt. Everest 8848m and the lowest point is Kechana Kalam 70m above sea level. Its total land is divided in three parts, 15% Himali region, 68% hilly region and Terai region covers 17% total of its land . Although it shelters: 4% of mammals on earth; 8% of the world's population of birds, i.e. more than 850 species; 11% of the world's 15 families of butterflies, i.e. more than 600 species; 600 indigenous plant families; 319 species of exotic orchids; More than 600 rivers and EIGHT of the TOP TEN Mountains over 8000 meters Summits in the world including Mount Everest. Out of thirty-one snow-topped peaks over 7600 meters, Twenty-two lie in Nepal! Astonishing! And while you marvel at these facts, there are so many exciting and interesting things are waiting for you to explore it. Ancient cities and exotic Cultural, Pilgrim and Ayurvedic/Yoga/Meditation, Adventurous Elephant Safaris, and many Game-viewing Tours, Floral and Botanical, Bird watching, Trekking and Mountaineering Expeditions. White-water Rafting, Bungy Jumping, Hot air Ballooning, Paragliding, Rock Climbing, Mountain Flights and many others are all at your disposal in Nepal. TOP †
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The people, Culture and Language:
Nepal is a unique country inhabited by some 23 million people comprised of multi-lingual, multi-ethnical and multi-cultural diversity. Many of them have their own languages and customs. The Sherpas, Limbus, Rais, Newars, Gurungs, Bahuns, Chhetris, Tharus and other people of different castes live together cooperatively and peacefully. There are 70 spoken languages and 40 ethnic groups in the kingdom. Nepali is the country's official language and English is spoken and understood by almost all the people living in the major cities. The people here mostly follow Hinduism and Buddhism but apart from this some also practice animism and shamanism etc. It is a country of "more Gods than the people", "More Temples than the houses" and "More festivals than the number of days in a year"! TOP †
_________________________________________________________________ Why people love trekking into the Himalayas?
Trekking is a special rewarding mountain holiday. Only big cities are not the representative of Nepal. So if you have the time and energy to trek, don't miss the opportunity to leave these big cities and see the spectacular beauty and the unique culture of this country. Fortunately such a tiny nation like Nepal, it is a home for 61 different ethnic groups and each of them holds their own unique cultures. There are still many areas untouched by motor able roads. Trekking is the only way to truly visit the kingdom of Himalaya, ‘he abodes of snows', the spectacular landscapes and the tribal of country welcomes you by every step. Trekking will take you through a country that has captured the imagination of mountaineers and explorers for more than 100 years. You will meet people in remote whose lifestyle has not changed for generations. Trekking does not mean mountain climbing and its always refers to walking on trail, and this great diversity gives you a goal to enjoy of your holiday. So please choose one of trips through our website www.trekkingzones.com and can be suits one of them for your holidays. Likewise naturally other countries also hold their own culture and diversity. We have designed the itineraries for any level of ages as degree ways. TOP †
_________________________________________________________________ Important information for trip booking:
We are a tour operator from Nepal, and conducting tours throughout the Asia within Nepal, Bhutan, India (SIKKIM, DARJEELING & LADAKH) TIBET (China) with our own multi linguist's guides and agents, sometimes in relation with overseas tour operators.
If you are on collective group trips, individuals most report at ATH, Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expedition Inc. Dhapasi-1, Kathmandu, Nepal by Phone: 00977-1-4377339 or 00977-1-4-215624 Fax: 00977-1-4-370667 email at ath@mail.com.np / terres@mail.com.np or sent copy to both addresses at least 4 days before trip commences.
Our clients are followed and attended by our coordinators/tour leaders from the beginning to the end of the development & operation of their travel project and we will confirm and process all reservations & bookings accepted even if the negotiation and the final payment of a tour or travel package may be processed by an authorized travel agency accredited in the region or country of residency of the traveler.
After an agreement has been reached between the client and us for all the details regarding the tour or travel package, the traveler (the client) will be put in contact, by our services, with an authorized distributor or directly by us for finalizing the sale according to the agreement. TOP †
_________________________________________________________________ Bookings:
Bookings and reservations are made by filling out our on-line booking form, or print the booking form fill it and faxed to us. We contact you by E-mail as soon as your form is received to define the procedures following this step and to confirm the availability on the tour you have chosen with us. All participants booking one of our regular or tailor made tours must read and fully understand our policies and booking conditions. A non-refundable deposit representing 30% of the total sales price must accompany all bookings. The balance must be entirely paid 30 days prior to the departure date. To guarantee a booking made 30 days or less before the departure date we request the entire payment of the total sale's price at once. Any person booking one of our tour on the behalf of one or more other traveler(s) ensures us that he/she has received full authority and permission to do so from the traveler whose name appear on the booking form.
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Cancellation:
In the event of cancellation by the traveler 7 days prior to departure 50% of the total amount paid will not be refundable. Passed the 7th day there will be 100% no refund. If we have not received a balance due at the 29th day preceding a departure, we can cancel the booking. If we are in the obligation to cancel a trip for any reason, the participants will be completely refunded without any possibility of further indemnity. Cancellation of a trip made by the client does not entitle him/her to a refund of any kind. The date of cancellation is the date on which ATH, Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expedition Inc. receives a written notice of cancellation by the traveler who has made the booking. TOP †
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About your health: Enjoyment of your time in Nepal will depend a great deal on how healthy you are when you arrive and how healthy you stay during your visit. Your guide is experienced in dealing with ailments, which you are likely to encounter during your tour. If at any time you feel unwell, let your guide know. Inform to guide of any medication you are taking and ask his advice before taking any other medication. If you are on trek, some medication may have a different reaction when used at higher altitudes. Personal hygiene is very important. Wash your hands using disinfectants soap before any meals. Toilet facilities throughout Nepal are usually very basic and toilet paper and soap are not often provided - except in hotels and some restaurants. We erect a 'pit' toilet tent at the campsite during camping trips. We also supply you with rolls of toilet paper.
It is advisable to carry with you a container of "wet-ones" for cleaning hands during the day. The Nepali people generally do not use toilet paper; they use water to wash themselves. Consequently, the left hand is not used for eating or passing things to each other. Worth remembering!! Likewise Health and equipment: Our expedition trips are accessible for all person in good health condition, they do not require an exceptional physical condition or any technical or special knowledge (unless indicated so), but the travelers must be ready to (and willing to) provide a reasonable physical effort in relation with the tour chosen. Guided tours are directed from the beginning to end KTM/KTM by our guides and we provide all the general necessary equipment (with the exception of personal effects such as sleeping bags, Mattresses and Duffle bag...). Travelers are responsible for informing ATH or its tour leader of any known illness, disabilities, allergies or medical condition prior or during the travel (as soon as possible). Travelers being under medical prescription must have at all time during the tour their medication in their immediate possession and should inform the guide of their condition. If the health or conduct of a client appears to endanger the safe and sound progress of a tour he/she may be excluded from the tour.
IT IS COMPOLSORY THAT ALL TRAVELERS HAVE PERSONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE; this policy must cover medical and repatriation expenses.
For our indicated A classes, hard treks: we carry as an emergency on our tours, Gamaow Bag and first aid kits that contain all the necessary equipment to administer first aid to a person requiring it. This content surpasses the recommendations (combined) in this respect of the International Society for Mountain Medicine (ISMM). It does not include medical products or materials that is not directly required for giving first aid. Travelers must obtain and keep themselves all medical products such as antibiotic, cream, lotion and prescription. Our first aid kits do not constitute a pharmacy for the traveler. We carry them with us only for emergency suports. TOP †
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Laws and authority
Participant must be in possession of a passport with at least 6 months of validity at departure and all visas, permits and certificates required for the whole of their journey. At all times the decision of the company's tour leader or representative will be final on all matters likely to endanger the safety and well being of the tour. The traveler must at all times strictly comply with the laws, customs, and foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited. Should the traveler fail to comply with the above, or should he interfere with the well being of the group, the tour leader or company representative may order the traveler to leave the tour without recourse to any refund. TOP †
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Responsibility
1) for other than the Nepal trips, we may act in some occasions as an intermediate agent between the customer and the service provider (transports, hotels, local tour-operators etc....) and thus should not be confused with the later who, in any case, remains first responsible for the service provided and the conditions surrounding that service. Moreover, if unforeseen events or forcible circumstances implying the security of the traveler impose it, we reserve the right, before the departures and during the tour, directly or via our tour leaders, to modify the dates, the schedules or routes anticipated. In this case the customer cannot claim any kind of repayment. Considering the particular character of our tours, each participant must conform to the instructions given by the tour leader representing the agency, which cannot be held responsible of the incidents, accidents or physical injuries resulting from any imprudent personal initiative of the traveler.
2) We cannot be held responsible for the consequences of delays or cancellations due to a transport company. We also declines any responsibility as for the damage ensuing from a governmental act, from political unrest, from strikes or fortuitous acts or for damage undergone by a traveler for disease, loss, wounded or discomfort.
3) Once the trip has started, no refunds will be made under any circumstances for premature return or for any unused part of the tour.
4) Our responsibility ensuing from the defect to supply a service or an advantage described in the documents supplied to the traveler is limited to the cost of such service or favor.
5) It is possible that bad weather, technical problems or other unforeseen event force us to modify the program / schedule or route of a tour. When in our opinion in the interest of safety or for the satisfactory continuation of the tour it is necessary to incur extra expenses, we may do so and recover the same from the clients.
6) We cannot accept responsibility for the actions, lacks or errors of a traveler. TOP †
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Risks
Our tours may by their very nature involve an element of risk for the traveler not normally associated to holiday packages. The client must accept these attendant risks and also be aware that safety standards of providers (hotels, tours, transports) are not of the same standard as in his/her home country. Due to political and cultural differences as well as generally tougher physical conditions, travel to many destinations we offer involve risks others than those we take in our daily lives. The client must be aware of this fact and should make his travel decisions accordingly. TOP †
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Insurance
The traveler, together with all his personal belongings, is traveling on his own risk. It is therefore a booking condition that the traveler subscribes to a personal travel insurance covering personal accidents, medical expenses, air ambulance, loss or damage of effects, injury, personal liability, illness or death, cancellation of travel and interruption of stay. IT IS COMPOLSORY THAT ALL TRAVELERS HAVE PERSONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE. TOP †
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International flights
ATH, Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expedition Inc. does not include or sell international flights with its regular tours and is thus under no liability in respect of any matter howsoever arising with arrangements of international air transportation. However, we can help travelers to book their flight for one of our tours by referring them to a partner travel agency offering competitive rates for any International destinations.
If a TAILOR MADE TOUR (customized tour) includes international and/or domestic flight(s) our responsibility is limited to providing the appropriate travel documents and accurate information and coordinate land transfers accordingly. The carrier remains first and unique responsible for the service provided and the conditions surrounding that service. TOP †
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Photographing: Nepal is a paradise for photographers. It is said that even if one falls over and accidentally trips the shutter, the result will be photogenic. The changing landscape and the purity of the light, the charming villages and the glittering peaks all make a perfect framework for the informed eyes. One needs to think about three basic issues when considering trek photography: weight, versatility and reliability. TOP †
_________________________________________________________________ Photos and Comments
Travelers must be aware that our tour leaders and representatives may take photographs, videos and films of them while on any of our tours and that we reserve us the right to use such material for any publications or marketing uses and promotional literature. If the client opposes himself to this he must notify us with a written notice before or during the tour. TOP †
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Rates
Prices are based on the markets of 2007/08. If a major change in exchange rates occurs during the year our prices can change accordingly. Customs transit fees; visas and airport taxes are always the responsibility of the traveler. TOP †
_________________________________________________________________ SERVICES : Friendly management, definite departures, well-trained and experienced staffs. Higher quality equipment, excellent hygienically prepared food. A serious consciousness on environmental concerns & issues, private transports, Emergency Evacuation procedures organized where necessary (but you most has to have travel insurance which covered accidents, medical, and emergency Airlift evacuate etc), for local staffs, is Insured by ATH, Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expedition Inc.
Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expedition Inc. Is a Nepali owned company and insured for professional liability, per as Nepali law and odder to covering its operations throughout the Nepal (including errors & omissions)
ENTERING TO NEPAL
The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is linked by air with the major cities of the world and many major air companies are operate scheduled flights including Royal Nepal Airline.
BY LAND – China linked friendship Border in northeast and India Sunauli, Birgunj and Kankaribhitta
For your kind information:
Bring a photocopy of your passport's main page and visa. Contact us by telephone fax or Email when you have decided on the type of trip you wish to do. We will arrange all those necessary but time consuming details this end. On confirmation of your booking, we will require a 30% of deposit from total trip amounts. For your convenience and security of trip that you choose, this amount can be sent directly our official accounts. Account details will be sent while you make your booking with us.
While you need to arrange is:
Your transport to and from Kathmandu,
Visa for Nepal
your travel/medical insurance (including rescue cover)
REMEMBER, “Most important thing to bring with you is right mental attitude" Traveling in the region of third world countries is mental & physical demanding:
A IRPORT TAXS – There is a departure airport tax's of Nepalese Rupees 1700.00 per person for all destinations on the all-International flights and Rupees 1100 per person to destinations of SAARC member Countries such as Delhi , Dhaka and Karachi .
CUSTOMS – All baggage must be identified and has to pass through customs inspection at the port of entry or departure.
LANGUAGE – Nepali is the official language. English is understood & spoken by the majority of peoples who involved in tourism related business.
Giving money to street beggars or the village children is discouraged.
TIME & COMMUNICATION – Nepal is 5hrs 45 minutes ahead of GMT, 4hrs 30minutes behind Australian standard time, 10hrs 30 minutes ahead of American Eastern times, 3hrs ahead of Japan and 4hrs 30 minutes ahead of French.
OFFICIAL AND WEEKLY HOLIDAYS – Friday day and Saturday
ELECTRICITY … 220volts Ac-50 cycles.
VISA REGULATIONS … Visas will be issued by Nepalese Embassies abroad or can be obtained on arrival on Kathmandu airport. To obtain a visa, tourists need to fill out a visa application form and provide 2 Passport size photographs.
A Tourist may stay in Nepal up to 150 days in a visa year (January- December)
Visa Fees: For those visitors who are entering into Nepal first time in a visa year:
Single Entry Visa: US$30 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency for 60 days.
Multiple Entry Visa: US$ 50 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency for 60 days
Visa Fees for those who are entering into Nepal second time and thereafter within the same visa year
Single Entry Visa: UU$ 50 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency for 30 days
Double Entry Visa: US$ 75 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency per month.
Multiple Entry Visas: US$ 110 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency. TOP †
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TREKKING INFORMATION
Why people come to the Himalayas ?
Because Himalayas are the only ultimate destinations to adventure seekers, and Nepal is blessed with an incredible diversity of natural beauty and a consequent opulence of cultural varieties, trekking & mountaineering is the special rewarding holidays. Only big cities are not the representative of Nepal. So if you have the time and energy to trek, don't miss the opportunity to leave these big cities and see the spectacular beauty and the unique culture of this country. Fortunately such a tiny nation like Nepal, it is a home for more than 77 different ethnic groups and each of them holds their own unique cultures. There are still many areas untouched by motor able roads, and trekking is the only way to truly visit the kingdom. The abodes of snows, the spectacular landscapes and the tribal of country welcomes you by every steps. Therefore trekking will take you through a country that has captured the imagination of mountaineers and explorers for more than 100 years. You will meet people in remote whose lifestyle has not changed for generations. Trekking does not mean mountain climbing and its always refers to walking on trail, and this great diversities gives you a goal to enjoy of your Himalayan holiday. Likewise naturally other countries hold their own culture and diversity. So please choose one of the given trekking itineraries, which suits to you. We have designed the itineraries for any level of ages as degree.
Tent life
Sleeping arrangements consist of double-walled tents with strong waterproof under sheets. We provide two mattresses, hard and foam to soften bumpy ground and insulate you. Also we can provide sleeping bags, but it is better to bring one with you that, and which fits well and more clean. A pair of cotton liners is a good investment, as they get dirty and can be washed, rather than the sleeping bag itself, which cannot, at least on. Duffel bag should be big enough to be fit in every thing e.g. Sleeping bag and extra clothing's. Daypacks should be big enough strong & lightweight to fits in Camera, water bottle, Gore-Tex, flashlight, toiletries etc. See our note under 'Equipment checklist'. Small bags are very useful for to pack into separately the your things and deployed in the tent and day time. This is a fine place to put flashlights, glasses, a watch and other small items that may be needed and which may get lost at night.
A day on trek:
Trekking involves two periods of walking each day. However, some day you can walk only in the morning and settle down during the heat of the afternoon to wash, read or explore the local villages and ecology, this approach slows the pace of travel and the scope of what can be done in a limited time, but it also makes the trek a great deal and more agreeable. We have, however, based the trekking itineraries on the notion of a full day of activity. Most rise early, at dawn. The reason for doing this is that the country looks its best when the light is slanting low. The modest difficulties of getting organized in the semi-light, and breakfasting before the sun hits the campsite. The kitchen staff is will rise much earlier, and then you will be woken with a hot cup of black tea and bowl of warm water for washing at some stage before breakfast, however you must pack your belongings before come to breakfast table, because porters will be waiting for your bags as you emerge. “You will get you bags only in evening” porters will leave camp before you finish your breakfast, and you may pass (and re-pass) them several times during the day. It is considered poor etiquette to ask to open your bags between campsites, as this involves considerable inconvenience. You will be set out after your breakfast, proceed by the sirdar or one of his assistant Sherpa (a route men) the kitchen staffs also will be loaded off too. Their job is to find a temporary site for your lunch stop and cook food. You will typically walk for 3-4 hours in the morning, stopping at between 11am - Noon for lunch. You will be greeted by a cup of lemon or orange cordials flavored water. A simple lunch follows about half an hour later. It is often possible to wash yourself in a stream at lunchtime, after lunch the walk begins once more. The afternoon trek is usually shorter than morning and most would expect to be in camp by 4 O'clock, but slow walkers and hard trails may delay this. Tea and biscuits will await you, however, dinner is generally served around 6.30-7pm.
How fit I should be for trekking?
Almost all of the treks in Nepal have some degree of 'climbing'. Demands physical and however, with some pre-trek preparation, participants should have no problems coping with the trek of their choice. Some trekkers experience problems with their knees, (which is know as trekkers knee) after a period of downhill trekking. If you have a history of knee problems be sure to bring a knee guard to support or strap with you just in case. Remember too that speed is not a part of trekking - taking your time and enjoying the views is important. It is stamina and confidence, which is important, factors to the enjoyment of your trek. We recommended that you base your trekking choice on the following criteria's.
Basic sightseeing and trekking:
Mainly low altitude walking with some short ascents and descents. No specific pre-trek preparation is required for these trips but you should aim to have a reasonable level of general fitness. Practice carrying your day pack and break in those you newly brought trekking boots.
Introductory Trekking:
You will be walking or involved in activity up to 6-7 hours per day at altitudes not exceeding 2500 meters and with some steep ascents and descents. For two or three months prior to your trek you should take every opportunity to do some bush walking, walking up and down stairs (instead of using the lift), cycling, swimming and just plain walking.
Moderate Trekking:
You will be walking 4-6 hours per day at altitudes not exceeding 4,500 meters with steep ascents and descents. Preparation will be much the same as for the introductory trek but should include more steep ascents and descents if possible. Using the stairs instead of the lift is a good way to prepare for these treks as is cycling and swimming.
Challenging trekking:
These treks will involve some high altitude activity and the occasional pass crossing and altitudes not exceeding above 5500 meters. Be aware of the physical and mental needs of this type of trek. You will need to be fit and prepared as for the moderate trek apply here too. Level of fitness is unrelated to altitude sickness and you cannot be sure that you will not suffer some mild symptoms. Slow and steady is the key to enjoyment.
Mountaineering and Trekking Peaks:
For those in search of a challenging, you must have had extensive outdoor experience and in selecting this type of expedition, know that you are fit and have maintained the fitness over a period of time. It is necessary to have basic technique experience and gaining experience with rope work (rock climbing gym) could be an advantage. These could involve altitudes up to height Mt. Everest. We can provide pre-trek training for the mountaineering component. Not for the beginner!!
BEST SEASONS FOR Trekking… Autumn / Spring
OTHER SERVICE … In additions to Trekking and Mountaineering expeditions we organize Rafting, sight seeing, Jungle Safari, Air Ticketing, Hotel reservation, mountain flight etc.
Inclusions ... Once you arrived in Kathmandu virtually everything is included.
* Accommodation in good hotels on BB basis when in cities
* Two men tents during camping.
* Sleeping bags and mattress.
* All meals on trip prepared by our locally trained cooks.
* All domestic transportation/transfers including flights where specified are in the itinerary.
* One of highly experienced local guide.
* Porters to carry your gears.
* Basic First Aid Kit.
* Trek Permits and National park Entrance fees.
* Welcome or Farewell Dinner. TOP †
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Equipment Checklist for Trekking:
Good trekking boot waterproof (one pair), Camp Shoes or thongs (1 Pair)
Socks Polypropylene (2 Pairs) for 3 to 4 weeks treks , Cotton Socks, high and light with plus fours (Several Pairs)
Down Booties (Optional for winter trip) , Down or Fibre-filled Jacket (1) , Gore-Tex Jacket, (1) T-shirts (at least 4),
Hiking Shorts and Pants , Poncho, Sun hat, Sun and snow glasses with one extra pairs, under wears,
Swimming-wears (Optional), Windbreaker tops and pants, Long underwear tops and bottom, Woolen hat,
Gloves light 1pair Plus Gore-Tex or windproof 1 pair, Gaiters 1 pair, Duffle bag with padlock (1) porter to carry,
Backpack 40 ltrs , Water bottles, Head or flashlight plus batteries and extra bulbs, a good sleeping bag four seasons, Thermo rest (Mattress), Sun block (SPF 15-plus), unblock for lips, Toilet paper, Matches or Lighter,
Personal first-aid kit, Sewing kit, Towel and laundry soap, small Swiss army knife,
Optional equipment :
Camera + different lenses + many roll film, (Digital camera is much lightweight) Lens cleaning equipment, Perhaps altimeter, thermometer, compass, binoculars and map for the region, Proper footwear is important item, buy good trekking shoes at least 1 size bigger then your normal size and good socks with inner socks if you think its necessary TOP †
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HEALTH
About your health:
Your enjoyment of your time in Nepal will depend a great deal on how healthy you are when you arrive and how healthy you stay during your visit. Your guide is experienced in dealing with ailments, which you are likely to encounter during your tour. If at any time you feel unwell, let your guide know. Inform to guide of any medication you are taking and ask his advice before taking any other medication. If you are on trek, some medication may have a different reaction when used at higher altitudes. Personal hygiene is very important. Wash your hands using disinfectants soap before any meals. Toilet facilities throughout Nepal are usually very basic and toilet paper and soap are not often provided - except in hotels and some restaurants. We erect a 'pit' toilet tent at the campsite during camping trips. We also supply you with rolls of toilet paper.
It is advisable to carry with you a container of "wet-ones" for cleaning hands during the day. The Nepali people generally do not use toilet paper; they use water to wash themselves. Consequently, the left hand is not used for eating or passing things to each other. Worth remembering!!
Stomach upsets:
It is common for many first time visitors to experience some stomach and associated upset for a short time due to the change in diet. This normally only lasts for few days, however take some precautions to minimize your encounter with these problems. Trying the local food is part of the experience of travel but take care with what you eat and drink and from where you buy your meals -ask with your guide. Water: be very careful about the water you drink. Even some bottled soft drinks can be suspect. Do not drink or clean your teeth with untreated water from the taps or from the rivers and streams. The water may look clean and refreshing, but many bugs are lurking there to catch the unwary traveler. This goes for ice too - make sure the ice is made from treated water. The water can be treated in a number of ways to make it fit for drinking. Boiling water is the best if it is boiled enough but remember that at high altitude water boils at a lower temperature and all of the bugs may not be killed. The use of iodine to purify the water is recommended both as an effective and environmentally sound method of treatment. The tablet form is the most effective but you may need something to give nicer flavors to the water afterwards. The use of bottled water is being discouraged because of the problem with the discarded plastic bottles. We provide you with boiled water for drinking and teeth cleaning. If you are not sure - ask your guide.
Food: As for the food - they say that if you can't cook it, boil it or peel it don't eat it. Salads and fruit should be washed in treated water or peeled where possible. The fact that our experts they use treated water in their food preparation. There is no need to become overly concerned but do careful. Normally the food you are served is hygienically prepared and should cause you no problems. You may experience some stomach discomfort until your digestive system gets used to the change in diet. This should last only a few days.
First few Nepali words: bistarai - slowly: chhito - quickly: oraalo - downhill: ukaalo - uphill: jaunjaun - let's go: thakailagyo - tired
There are a number of way to traveling in Nepal, can be organized for any level. You will need to take into consideration the time available, your budget, experience and personal preference. You can travel on your own or in a small group, join with a group when you arrive in Nepal, book in advance or on arrival. We organize your trips to your requirements for your maximum enjoyment. We use experienced Guides and cooks at all times and insure our crew against loss of earnings as a result of accident. Working with bureaucracy in Nepal can be a very time consuming affair; so, we can save you that time which leaves you more time to enjoy what you came for! TOP †
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Currencies:
Most major international currencies can be easily converted into Nepali Rupees with the American dollars and Euros perhaps being the most popular currencies. There is an exchange booth at the international airport, major hotels have money-changing facilities and there are a number of official money-changers in the cities and larger towns.
You may want to shop around for the best exchange rate on the day, but remember to check the commission the charge. Traveler's cheques can be difficult to change outside of large centers. Watch out for unofficial money -changers and keep a record of the money you change as you will be required to produce your receipts if you want to change Rupees back to hard currency while leaving Nepal. Your guide can advise you on money changing facilities available while on the trip. Visa and credit cards can be draw cash from some banks in Kathmandu. But check the holidays and festival these day banks are closed (problems if you arrive on a holiday or festival time and require money). Moneychangers do not offer the facility for Visa and Credit cards only cash. Now you can draw money from ATM's card some bank does have these facilities.
Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday, 10am – 3.30pm except on Government holidays and festivals. Official money changers are open seven days a week, have longer opening hours than banks and process is often quicker than at banks, but check on the commission charged – some don't charge any. Most major hotels offer money-changing services. Further details of banking timings are given on the Currency hard copy page. Credit cards can be used in many business places but do not rely on being able to use them. There can be a great variation in the minimum purchase amount allowed.
Nepali currency is rupee with bank notes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees. There are also coins with the values of 5, 2, and 1 rupee, 50, 25, 5 and 1 paisa (100 paisa = 1 ruppe). It can be very difficult to charge the larger denomination notes especially away from the main centers. Always have some small denomination notes for taxi drivers, traders, etc. as they are often unable to give change if you offer large notes. On a trip organized by us, you will require money for items of a personal nature, souvenirs and tips; this avoids the need to carry large sums of money with you. At the end of a trip, or each segment where different crews is used, around 2 Euros per day is collected from each participant. This money is pooled and divided amongst the crew as their bonus and the final get-together with you of the trip presents this bonus to crew –a time of great singing and dancing.
LOCAL CURRENCY – Rupee.
CURRENCY REGULATION – Any currency, except Indian Rupee either in travelers Cheques or cash can Brought in any quantity provide it is declared upon arrival. Standard Chatter and Himalayan Banks in Kathmandu are cash it from Credit, Visa and Master Cards. All visitors except Indian nationals will hand a form on which monetary transactions during his/her stay will be recorded. TOP †
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CULTURAL CONSIDERATION
Nepal is a country in culture and tradition. As a visitor, it is important that you respect the rights and beliefs of the local people and that you minimize your impact –culturally and environmentally.
The Nepali people are a friendly and proud people who will thank you for saying something positive about their country. Always remember that life for many of the people in Nepal is extremely hard, they have very few material possessions and there is little or no alternative to doing things the hard way. Nevertheless, you will find many of their qualities put the western ‘developed' world to shame. The influx of visitors to Nepal is bound to have an impact on the country. In the cities and larger villages where tourist are frequently seen, you will find the locals to be more aware of the western ways and in some cases will have picked up on the less favorable attributes. Of course, being in a totally different culture, you can expect to make some mistakes and most of the locals will make allowances for this. It is, however appreciated when visitors make a genuine effort to observe local customs.
So, Let Nepal Change you – not you to change Nepal!
It has to be remembered that Nepal is home to the Nepali people. Their lifestyle and conditions dictate that much of their living is conducted in open view of everyone. Bathing often has to make place at a communal tap out in the open, doors and windows in the homes are invariably open. Visitors should respect the privacy of the local people by “not seeing” these activities. Avoid looking into the homes as you pass by and do not enter a home unless invited to do so, be sensitive when using your camera, and avoid making judgmental comments based on western cultural norms. Avoid public displays of affection –it is rare and frowned upon to see couples of the opposite sex holding hands. You will, however, see Nepali men walk hand –in –hand or with an arm around each other as is customary in many Asian countries It is a sign of good friendship and does not have the same connotations as it may have in most western societies. Nepali people will usually greet you by placing their hands together in front of the face and bowing slightly while saying the familiar greeting “Namaste” or the more respectful form “Namaskar”. It would be customary for you to reply in same manner.
If you are unsure, let the Nepali person take the lead and follow their example.
Nepali people avoid exposing too much of their body in public and it would be appropriate for tourist to observe this custom by wearing suitable clothing. It is not suitable for women to wear shorts, short skirts or brief tops.
Shorts are acceptable for men when walking but going around without a shirt or top is not. Nudity is definitely not acceptable. It is considered extremely bad manners to raise your voice to or shout at a person. Nepali people do not like offending and can be easily embarrassed by your reactions. However, in the larger centers frequented by many tourists and where some of the locals have become more ‘western –wise' in their attitudes, you may find a difference in the way you are treated. Remember that patience is a virtue and that you may be on the receiving end of what are, after all, introduced changes.
Some Hindu temples are not open to non-Hindus. Please ask for permission before entering.
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CLIMATE
The climates of Nepal varies from area to area depending upon the altitude. Visiting to Nepal is possible throughout the year. But activities like mountain flights, Jungle safari, rafting and trekking are best through October to May. It is very difficult to predict mountain weather, especially the Himalayas, (we use to say fashion in Paris and weather in Mountains are same) means weather can be change any time without notice. In any season at any altitudes above 3000m, night temperatures can drop to - 0ºC
BASIC GUIDE LINE OF MAXIMUM-MINIMUM TEMPERATURES:
(In degrees Celsius; * rainy season)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
KTM 19-2 20-4 25-8 30-11 30-16 30-20 30-21 29-20 27-19 23-15 23-4 20-2
PKR 20-8 21-8 27-11 30-16 30-20 30-20 30-21 30-21 29-20 27-18 23-11 20-8
CTN 24-7 26-8 33-12 35-18 35-20 35-23 33-23 33-24 32-22 31-18 29-12 24-8
CLOTHING – Good warm clothing are required for autumn and Very warm clothing for winter & spring. See the equipment checklist. TOP †
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TERMS & CONDITION
Trip Booking conditions:
A deposit of 30% of the trip cost is required at the time of booking, and any trip will not be guaranteed or held unless this deposit is paid. Rest of the balance payment or payment in full is required prior to departure.
Trip cancellation charges:
More than week prior to trip departure 50% of trip cost will be charged
Less than week prior to departure 100% of trip cost will be charged
If any transfer to an alternative departure date 20 Euro will be charged on p/person basis
Refund:
Under no circumstances will there be a refund of any kind if you do not turn up trip departure, or if you leave a trip for any reason, either voluntarily or involuntarily, after the trip has commenced. TOP † |
