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Everest Base Camp Trek and Heli Return Lukla – 12 Days

Everest Base camp
Country Nepal Max-Altitude 5,550m/18,204ft
Trip StartKathmandu Trip End Kathmandu
Group Size Minimum 4, Maximum 15
Meals Breakfast in Kathmandu and full board meals during the trek
Accommodation 2 nights in deluxe 4-star hotel in Kathmandu, 1 night in a luxury lodge, 2 nights in Khumbu Lodge and 5 nights in best available tea houses during the trek
Starting At $ 2890 USD
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    A once-in-a-lifetime trek to the foot of Mount Everest with a thrilling helicopter ride to Lukla

    This trip, Everest Base Camp Trek and Heli Return Lukla - 12 days, takes you on an unforgettable walking adventure to the base camp of Mount Everest. Trek to the most popular trekking destination in the world and return to Lukla via helicopter. Enjoy an aerial perspective of the stunning Everest scenery on your return flight. A moderately graded trek of twelve days, this trip is ideal for those on a short vacation. It's also recommended for those who want to skip the knee-crackling descent to Lukla via the same route.

     

    Your trip begins from Kathmandu with a short flight to Lukla, the 'Gateway to Everest'. From Lukla, you start your hike and walk past the Sherpa villages of Phakding, Monjo, Jorsale, Namche, Tengboche, Pangboche, and Dingboche.

     

    The scenery en route is sublime and will keep you enthralled. The trail meanders past pristine forests, silvery waterfalls, and thundering rivers. You will find mani stones, chortens, prayer flags, and prayer wheels at every turn – a reminder of the deeply rooted Buddhist spiritualism in the Sherpa way of life.

     

    From Gorakshep, you walk to your final destination Everest Base Camp. A sunrise view of Mount Everest and other peaks from Kala Patthar is another highlight of your trip. Take to the skies from Gorakshep and return to Lukla, enjoying spectacular views of the Khumbu Glacier and the world's tallest mountains.

     

    As this is a high-altitude trek, we have set aside two days for acclimatization. You will spend extra nights at Namche and Dingboche adapting to thin air. Our experienced guides will be there at every step to aid and motivate you.

     

    Why Do Trekkers Like You Love This Itinerary?

    • Well acclimatized Short Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter flights will be completed within just a total of 12 days. Thus, you can trek to the base of Everest in lesser days which is the best option for those with a tight schedule.
    • This trip includes deluxe 4-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu, Yeti Mountain Home, luxury lodge accommodation in Phakding, Khumbu Lodge in Namche Bazaar and best available tea houses at the remaining stops during your trek in the mountains to guarantee best services while maximizing your comfort level.
    • Get a bird’s eye view of Mount Everest and other renowned peaks of the Great Himalayan Trails with scenic mountainous helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla.
    • Guided by highly-experienced local leaders, it is an insightful trekking journey to learn unique Sherpa culture and experience serenity of Buddhism.
    • Important gears, such as down jacket, sleeping bag, and duffle bag are provided along with full porterage (2 trekkers:1 porter)

    When Is The Best Time To Go?

    The ideal seasons are spring and autumn as the weather remains stable with clear skies and sunny days. You can expect some light drizzle and fog during spring. Autumn offers blue skies and crystal clear views of the mountains. You can also choose early winter to make this trip. Although it will be colder than spring and autumn, the trail will be less crowded, and teahouses may offer discounts.

    Is This The Right Trip For You?

    • You should be physically fit with no serious health issues
    • On average, you will have to walk 5 to 6 hours each day
    • If you have weak lungs, heart, and knees, you should consult your physician before booking this trip
    • With rising altitude, you will have to deal with low amount of oxygen in the air
    • Previous trekking experience might be helpful but not mandatory. Beginners can join too.
    • Lastly, you need to be mentally strong and have a 'can do' attitude

    Choose Your Travel Dates

    • Lifetime loyality offers
    • Indigenous tour leaders
    • Socially responsible tourism
    • Best value guaranteed

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    What’s Included

    Price Includes
    • Airport transfers to/from the hotel in private comfortable vehicles
    • Deluxe 4-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu for two nights with breakfast
    • Helicopter flights from Gorakshep to Lukla and two ways regular flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa
    • 1 night luxury lodge accommodation (Yeti Mountain Home) at Phakding, 2 nights in Khumbu Lodge at Namche Bazaar followed by 6 nights in best available tea houses at other stops during the trek.
    • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner + fruits/tea/coffee) during the trek
    • Farewell dinner
    • Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
    • An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 Assistant guide)
    • Full porterage service during the trek (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
    • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food, and accommodation
    • Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, duffel bag, T-Shirt, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after the trip)
    • A comprehensive medical kit
    • All necessary paperwork and permits (National park permit)
    • All taxes payable to central and state governments
    What's Not Included
    • Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)
    • Extra night accommodation, if required (in Kathmandu)
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Any optional activities other than above included the ones during the free time
    • International flights
    • Travel and rescue insurance
    • Tips for staff
    • Services not mentioned in the ‘Trip Cost Included’ section
    • Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, shower etc.
    • Lodging and food in Kathmandu, in case of early arrival than the scheduled date from the trek

    Travelers Review

    Sam Tedros
    Sam Tedros

    United States

    I was recommended by a friend to take service of Extollo Adventures and it was more than expected. Everything from Read More

    Traveled to Nepal in group of 3 from Apr 10 - Apr-18 2020
    Jelom Kawasi
    Jelom Kawasi

    Canada

    I came to see the mount kailash trip of Extollo Adventures via online research and finally booked with them. They Read More

    Traveled to Tibet in group of 8 from Jun 11 - Jun-27 2019
    Viswan
    Viswan

    United States

    We contacted Extollo Adventures thru a common friend. We were picked up promptly by the Tour guide and taken to Read More

    Traveled to Nepal in group of 12 from Apr 02 - Apr-16 2019

    Detailed Itinerary

    Day to day details from arrival to departure
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    Note: Extollo Adventures reserves the right to amend the itinerary in case of unforeseen circumstances: weather conditions, flight delays and cancellations, health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc, can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The tour leader will, and can make the changes for safety reasons and also to improve the trip as well as your experience. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, so one needs to be flexible, if required

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    Accommodation and meals

    While you travel, we will follow three types of accommodations. You will spend 2 nights in Kathmandu at a deluxe 4-star hotel, 1 night in a luxury lodge (Yeti Mountain Home) at Phakding, 2 nights in Khumbu Lodge at Namche Bazaar followed by 6 nights in best available tea houses at other stops during the trek. All accommodations for the trip will be on a twin-sharing basis. Single supplement will be provided on request, at an additional cost (690 USD). However, a single supplement may not be feasible all the time.

    During our Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter flights, you can enjoy authentic Nepalese food as well as the common international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.). Breakfast and dinner are served from the tea-houses or from a lodge menu where you spend the night. Whereas lunch will be served on the way to the next destination. All meals will be provided during trekking whereas only breakfast will be available while in Kathmandu. There will also be a Farewell Dinner hosted by Extollo Adventures upon your return from the successful excursion.

    Frequently asked questions about this trip

    Who can go?

    Yes you can do it ! You need to be in good shape and have the ability to walk 6 – 7 hours uphill and downhill per day. It is suitable for passionate trekkers willing to face challenges and explore inspiring Himalayas, hence positive attitude, excellent health, and strong determination is required. Our trip is even suitable for travelers with Knee and Ankle problems since downhill trek avoided by Helicopter flight back to Kathmandu. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Besides, it is advisable to trek with a highly reputed trek operator like us, with experienced guides and their significant mental preparation with a personal touch.

    Regarding the difficulty, the only challenging factor is the altitude. Our Short Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Flights 11 Days itinerary provides ample time for acclimatization. Neither ropes nor ice picks are needed on this trip and no vertical climbs are involved. Novice travelers with good physical shape, regular exercise, positive attitude and no medical conditions related to lungs or the heart can easily complete the adventurous trip.

    There is no official age limit for trekking in the Himalayas as long as our participants are healthy and committed to complete the adventure. We are experienced in operating treks even for families with kids as young as 9 years old and elderly trekkers in their 80s. This is a moderate trek with a well acclimatized and carefully crafted itinerary. Thus our trekkers should mainly have good physical shape, regular exercise, positive attitude and strong determination in addition to excellent health for a successful Himalayan trek.

    Best time and weather

    The best time to trek to the Everest Base Camp is Spring (March to May), and Autumn (September to November). The temperatures are moderate during these seasons and guarantee fantastic views throughout the trip. Beautiful bright blue sky and incredible views of different species of flowers and various Himalayan peaks are best experienced during these seasons.

    It is also possible to do the EBC trek during monsoon season (June to August) and winter season (from December to February). But during monsoon, it rains in the lower altitudes and the views are not so pleasant due to foggy and hazy weather. While during the winter season, although the sky is clear, it gets colder. However, traveling during these off-seasons has an advantage that there are fewer crowds due to infrequent trekkers.

    About the trip

    On our standard itinerary, you will be walking for 9 days with an average distance of 12 km a day and a minimum of 6 – 8 km. Other days will be spent for acclimatizing wherein you may make short hikes of about 3 – 4 km. Although 12 km per day is not a long distance, the steep and rocky terrain will slow your pace especially during winters when the trail gets covered in snow and ice. Your average walking pace will be about 4 km/hour, so 12 km per day does not sound too bad.

    There are telephones (landlines) in most of the villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. Mobile phone services are available throughout Nepal but the quality of the reception varies from location to location. Internet facilities can be found in only a few villages. However, these facilities can be expensive. Our guides will carry mobile phones which also can be used by you when/if necessary.

    It is not mandatory to arrive early on account of getting used to the altitude. However, it is recommended to keep a few buffer days before and after your trek owing to the unpredictable weather uncertainties, flight cancellations or other unseen calamities. As you trek to gradually higher altitudes, you will need to acclimatize appropriately and walk at a slower pace to get used to the altitude. You should not gain an elevation of more than 400-500m in a day’s walk.

    Yes. A representative, preferably the guide along with driver will be there at the airport’s arrival sector to meet you and escort you up to your hotel room. We include all airport pick up and drop offs as a part of your travel program. We will be with you the entire time of your stay in Nepal.

    Usually, your flight from Kathmandu to Lukla allows you to carry a maximum of 10 kg checked-in bag and a hand baggage of 5 kg. More than the weight limit will cost you about US$ 1 – 2 for each extra kg. So, we recommend you to minimize your luggage to avoid the additional cost. You can leave behind your unwanted items in your hotel back in Kathmandu or our office.

    We provide our professional and technical expertise services in remote areas in the Himalayas. Every effort will be made to stick to the original itinerary. However, since the weather and climatic conditions up in the mountains are sometimes unpredictable, we cannot guarantee that we will follow the original plan. The health condition of a group member or unexpected natural disaster, etc. can also contribute to unplanned situations. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to the plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required. For any unexpected occurring and challenges in the mountains, our Himalayan guides are entirely reliable and superbly jovial people. With their skill and knowledge of the region, they will readily devise a new plan and propose to you.

    If you provide us with the permission and prominent details and historical documentation, and day-to-day activity notes of the trek, we will certainly prepare as you desire with minimal additional cost. You may need to sit together with our content writer/editor to conclude the blog and writing formats.

    Leaders and staff arrangements

    All our guides are proficient in English, government licensed and professionally certified. They are local, Nepali mountain experts with multiple years of expertise in the mountains. They are incredibly knowledgeable about the mountains and their minute details. Our staff gets constant training and understands the way of running quality trips that exceed expectations. Our guides are selected based on their technical proficiency, proven safety records, impeccable judgment, and their friendly demeanor. They are well trained in first aid and personal protection equipment. Our guides practice Responsible Tourism in the trek guided by the principles of ecotourism and sustainable tourism. We train them in the following major courses:

    • Intensive Wilderness First Aid KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project)
    • Trekking Guide Training – Nepal Government’s Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Hotel Management and Tourism Training Center of Nepal.
    • Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal)
    • English Language – KEEP
    • Conservation and Biodiversity – KEEP
    • Rock and Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (optional) by Nepal Mountaineering Association.

    For this trek, there will be one leader, assistant guides (4 trekkers:1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter). The arrangement has been made in such a way that even if anyone within the group falls sick or cannot continue with the trek due to some reason, the trip can still go ahead as planned.

    According to IPPG (International Porter Protection Group), the maximum weight a porter is liable to carry is 30 kg. Since we use two trekkers: 1 porter ratio during trekking trips, the porter will take a maximum of 15 kilograms for each trekker. However, you will carry your own day packs. It should not be difficult to keep your primary packages below 15 kg each even with the more sturdy sleeping bag.

    Equipment and packing list

    To help you pack for your adventure, we have listed equipment and a pack list below. Please note that the listed items may vary according to the different seasons. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.

    • Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
    • Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
    • Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
    • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler’s checks, etc.

    HEAD

    • Bandana or headscarf, also useful for dusty conditions
    • Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
    • Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • Prescription sunglasses (if required)

    UPPER BODY

    • Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
    • Light and expedition weight thermal tops
    • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
    • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
    • Down vest and/or jacket *
    • Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable

    HANDS

    • 1 pair of lightweight poly-liner gloves.
    • 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
    • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
    • 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)

    LOWER BODY

    • Non-cotton underwear briefs
    • 1 pair of Hiking shorts
    • 1 pair of Hiking trousers
    • 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
    • Down vest and/or jacket *
    • 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric

    FEET

    • 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
    • 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
    • 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water resistant, ankle support, “broken in”)
    • 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
    • Cotton socks (optional)
    • Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version

    SLEEPING

    • 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)*
    • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)

    RUCKSACK AND TRAVEL BAGS

    • 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
    • 1 large duffel bag *
    • A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables, should have good shoulder padding
    • Small padlocks for duffel-kit bags
    • 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)

    MEDICAL

    • Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
    • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
    • 1 skin-blister repair kit
    • Anti-diarrhoea pills
    • Anti-headache pills
    • Cough and/or cold medicine
    • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
    • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are a respiratory depressant.
    • Water purification tablets or water filter
    • 1 set of earplugs
    • Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies

    PRACTICAL ITEMS

    • 1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing-repair kit
    • 1 cigarette lighter, 1 small box of matches
    • 1 compass or GPS(optional)
    • 1 alarm clock/watch
    • 1 digital camera with extra cards and batteries
    • large Ziplocs
    • 2 water bottles (1 liter each)
    • 1 small folding knife
    • Binoculars (optional)
    • 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks

    TOILETRIES

    • 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
    • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
    • Multi-purpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
    • Deodorants
    • Nail clippers
    • Face and body moisturizer
    • Female hygiene products
    • Small mirror

    PERSONAL HYGIENE

    • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
    • Tissue /toilet roll
    • Anti-bacterial hand wash

    EXTRAS/LUXURIES

    • Reading book
    • Trail map/guidebook
    • Journal and pen
    • iPod
    • Travel games i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble, playing cards (to help you pass the time at teahouses and/or camps)
    • 1 modest swimsuit
    • Binoculars (optional)
    • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
    • Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
    • Lightweight pillowcase (in case your teahouses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow

    We use a 4 season sleeping bag during the trek which is good to -10˚C, -15˚C or -20˚C depending on the season. We do provide you the sleeping bags but it is better if you can bring your own, as far as possible. If you bring your own, we suggest you Lamina Z Torch, MHW Lamina O or Shona’s sleeping bag. Make sure that your bag is of good fit to the shape of your body and should have an insulated hood for added warmth.

    A decent pair of hiking boots that are the right size for you, having excellent ankle support, good grip at the soles and which protect you from the snow is the type of boots you need during your trek. Once you buy your shoes, don’t forget to break them, to avoid blisters. If you want a specific recommendation, go ahead and try the Vasque Breeze 2.0 GTX. It has Gore-Tex liners, meaning that your feet will be protected from harsh conditions while the rubber outsoles provide enough traction and stability during long treks. Other recommendations are – New Balance Hiking Shoes and Scarpa Kailash Hiking Boots.

    Health and safety

    Our well-trained and dedicated guides will determine the intensity of your sickness and decide what needs to be done. He will provide on-site emergency assistance with first aid medical kit in the first place. If it is needed, he will bring you about 500m below so that you feel better. In case of extreme difficulties, he will help to evacuate you using a helicopter under your covered health/travel insurance. If you want to stay there and recover, our Sherpa assistance will be there with you. If your condition is not too critical, or you feel you cannot afford helicopter rescue, then you may think of a pony rescue, or you may even walk slowly downwards.

    Consult your doctor and check for which food items you are allergic before you come to Nepal. Before your trekking commences, do not forget to inform your guide about your allergies. He will accordingly make necessary arrangements for you throughout the journey.

    As the altitude goes up, the oxygen density gets lower affecting your cardiac and pulmonary systems. Our bodies must adjust to avoid mountain sicknesses, thus we arrange our treks and day-to-day itinerary to incorporate with required acclimatization days. At different points of our trip, you may either choose to take rest or have short hikes.

    As the altitude rises, more UV rays get reflected due to increase in sun’s intensity. Thus, we advise you to protect your skin with clothing and sunblock. A special sunblock for the mountains is recommended. Also, you may use UV protected sunglasses and prescription sunglasses if required.

    You may want to consider the following points for extra safety measures:

    • Use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling to keep your passport, air tickets, travelers’ cheques, cash and other valuable items safe.
    • Leave your valuable jewelry at home – you won’t need it while traveling. Many hotels that we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables.
    • A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
    • When traveling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your tour leader will accompany you on all included activities.

    Your safety is our paramount concern, so we are always there to help travelers in an emergency. We are available 24/7 either at any of our following contact numbers:

    Headquarter-USA: +1-855-986-5623

    Regional Office-Asia: +977-985-105-5684

    Food and accommodation

    At Kathmandu, farewell dinner before your final departure. While during the trek, all type of menus including major food items is available, though the quality and quantity may vary from what is available in Kathmandu. Nepalese, Tibetan, the more common continental, and Indian cuisines are common choices on the menu. However, as you trek further up, your choices will be limited. Hot drinks: Coffee / Tea / Hot chocolate Breakfast: The typical meals served for breakfast during trekking are eggs, pancakes, porridge, fresh baked bread and cheese. Lunch & Dinner: For lunch and dinner noodle soup (Thukpa) and soups, fried rice, macaroni, Momos (dumplings), potatoes, sandwiches, pizzas, spring roll, spaghetti, noodles and typical Nepal Dal-Bhat with vegetables (rice & lentil soup) are the common items. Snacks: We encourage you to take snacks like energy bars, candy bars, salty snacks, crackers, peanut butter etc. for a change in your diet on the trek.

    Salad: Vegetable / Fruit / Potato

    Desserts: Pie / Pudding / Custard / Cake

    Bottled water is available from Lukla all the way up to the base camp. The lodges serve bottled, boiled and filtered water, which is safe and have to be paid. One liter can cost anywhere from US$ 1 to 4. However, it is encouraged to use SteriPen UV purifiers or bring chlorine, iodine or other purifying agents to treat water before drinking for environmental reasons. Drinking at least 3 – 4 liters of fluids per day is recommended to stay hydrated especially at higher altitudes.

    Electricity: Electricity is available at teahouses throughout the trek. Most of the teahouses will charge you a price money for charging your batteries and other electronic gadgets. The charge will comparatively increase as you ascend higher up. The fee may vary from US$ 1 to 3 per hour. Internet: In places like Lukla, Phakding, Namche, Dole, Thagnak, and Dzongla, you can get access to unlimited WiFi coverage on paying around US$ 2 to 10 depending on the location. Phone: We recommend you to purchase the local cellular network SIM, NCell in Kathmandu before your trip. Nepal may or may not support roaming facilities, so using your own SIM is not guaranteed. Moreover, it is cheaper to use a local carrier.

    Most of the teahouses have western flush toilet facilities. However, at the place above Lobuche, squat type of toilet is more common. The western style flush toilets, however, become tough to flush especially during the night and at higher elevations when the water freezes. It is highly recommended to carry your toilet paper and hand sanitizer for EBC trek.

    Laundry service is not available at all places on the trekking trail. It is advised to make your laundry at places where you will be staying an extra day for acclimatization like Namche and Dingboche. Wherever available, laundry services will be provided at an extra cost. You can have your teahouse do your laundry at a nominal price per piece. Laundry, however, will not be done by machine; it will be by hand. If you wish you can do your own laundry, you can do it in the sink or a bucket, but then be ready to tackle the cold water.

    Special cases/rules

    Our trekking guide will make necessary efforts to acquire the required transportation and reservations to get you home as quickly as possible if, for any reason, you need to depart early. In the meantime, one of our staff will remain with you at all times. However, you will not be entitled to any refunds for unused days on the trek or for the services such as hotel, transport, and flight, included in the package that you would not use later. Please understand that our costs are the same as we have to pay the guides and porters for the time they have committed. However, you can make claims with your insurance company for your loss. We will cooperate with you on the documentation process to reimburse your claimed amount.

    There are reservations that have to be adhered to when entering Nepal. The customs department at the airport conducts a meticulous scrutiny of the items in your luggage. There are some items that cannot be brought into the country, for example carrying drugs in any form is considered a crime and the accused will be immediately prosecuted. Firearms, explosives and sharp or blunt weapons if identified can land you in serious trouble.

    It may come as a shock to many that eating beef is strictly forbidden in Nepal. Hinduism being the dominant religion in Nepal forbids killing and eating cows and oxen. Carrying any edible items in your luggage that contains beef is considered a crime.

    If you are carrying gold it should be less than 5 ounces, for more than the stipulated amount a declaration and authorization is required. Same goes for other precious metals, gems, and valuable items. There are no regulations on the jewelry on your body.

    Nepal has zero tolerance for drug smuggling. Visitors are forbidden to import drugs in any form into Nepal Possession of drugs not only puts you at risk of being apprehended and imprisoned but the entire group you are traveling with might get arrested as well.

    Nepal is a country of tradition and sacred religious beliefs. Any obscenity, whether physical or verbal, is looked upon with revulsion as the culture here differs from Western countries. Wearing inappropriate attire while visiting religious sites will not be tolerated, and clothes that are too revealing or leather clothing inside the religious structures are not allowed. While holding hands is completely normal, please refrain from displaying too much physical affection in public view, if you plan to travel to Nepal as a couple.

    Important notes ( Read before you book )

    Some important things to know before you go.
    • Flight Delays in Kathmandu/Lukla

      Airplane flights between Lukla and Kathmandu are generally reliable, though bad weather conditions may cause flight delay or even cancellation. In such scenario, Extollo Adventures will attempt to get you on a chartered helicopter to avoid flight delays. In this trip we already avoided this situation since we have helicopter flights to Lukla and from Gorakshep. All additional cost would be your responsibility which could be $600 USD or more depending on the number of people on the flight.

    • Travel Insurance

      It is mandatory for joining any of the Extollo Adventures trips is that all clients must be insured, it is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. There could be comprehensive expenses that might incur due to medical issues or accidents (this includes air ambulance, and treatment costs). Please note that we do not arrange or sell insurance.

    • Extra Expenses and Exclusions

      Extra personal expenses on the trip may include showering, recharging batteries, bottled/boiled water, soda, alcoholic beverages, tipping, visa fees, recreational expenses and other services not listed. Typically trekkers spend around $10 to $20 USD on a daily basis. Following are the items with extra costs during the trek:

      • All the meals (B/L/D) are included in the trek but only breakfast is included while you are in Kathmandu thus, lunch and dinner may cost you $8-25 USD per meal.
      • Tip for the guide and porter after the trek which maybe around 8-10% of your trip cost.
      • Drinking water can cost between $1 and $4 a bottle in the mountains (it gets more expensive towards base camp). Or you may bring water tablets and treat the water during the trek, which costs around $2.
      • Other services like hot showers ($4 to $6) and charging electric devices ($1 to $3 an hour) are available in few tea houses.
      • In case of unforeseen events like bad weather conditions and eventual flight cancellations, you are responsible for extra hotel nights and meals in Kathmandu or Lukla.
      • For the visa fees, please check Visa and Passport Information.
    • Visa & Passport Information

      All foreign nationals are required to arrange a visa in order to enter Nepal. A Nepalese Visa can be obtained either prior to your arrival at a Nepalese embassy abroad or on arrival in Kathmandu at the airport. It can be also secured at entry points at Nepalese borders.

      • Your Passport must be at least 6 months valid
      • Use your passport details to enter information on your visa application
      • Bring at least 3 recent passport photos (for your Nepal Visa, Trekking permit, etc.)

      Following are the fees either in US dollars cash or the equivalent Nepalese currency:

      • Multiple entry 15 days US$ 30
      • Multiple entry 30 days US$ 50
      • Multiple entry 90 days US$ 125

      You can use this full address while filling up your visa application:

      Street: Amrit Marg

      Ward No: 19

      VDC/Municipality: Kathmandu

      District: Kathmandu

      Country: Nepal

      For further information please visit: http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa

    Additional Information

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