Kathmandu:

In Kathmandu, we recommend participants at least 2/3 star deluxe hotel centrally located in Thamel. The hotel features a beautiful garden where guests can relax and enjoy the surroundings. Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis, with breakfast provided. Single rooms are available upon request for an additional single supplement fee, as stated in the trip costing.

On Trek:

Accommodation during the trek consists of simple mountain lodges run by local people, offering basic and shared facilities. Along the trail, there are numerous clean and friendly lodges. Rooms typically include a bed with a pillow and blankets, offering picturesque views. The lodges also feature spacious warm dining rooms. While blankets are usually provided, a warm sleeping bag is provided to all participants. Bathrooms are mostly shared, and toilets are squat/commode type in most places. Accommodation arrangements are made daily for the group, with a sense of adventure necessary as some lodges may be very basic.

Pokhara:

In Pokhara, we recommend participants at least 2/3 star deluxe hotel and located in Lake side. The hotel features a beautiful garden where guests can relax and enjoy the surroundings. Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis, with breakfast provided. Single rooms are available upon request for an additional single supplement fee, as stated in the trip costing.

Food (Meals)

During the trek, meals are provided, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menus in the teahouses offer a variety of options, from traditional Nepalese dishes like Dhal Bhat and Mo:Mo (dumplings) to international favorites like pizza and apple pie. While meat is available, it's advisable to avoid it due to potential stomach upsets caused by the transportation conditions. Breakfast and dinner are served at the teahouses/lodges, while lunch is provided along the way. Special dietary requirements should be communicated in advance to accommodate individual needs. For gluten-free diets, bringing extra food for breakfast is recommended due to limited options.  In Kathmandu/Pokhara, only breakfast is provided, allowing participants flexibility in choosing their lunch and dinner options

Drinking Water:

We offer hot-boiled water for drinking purposes on our treks to minimize the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles. Please remember to bring a reusable water bottle or Thermos that can withstand hot water, and feel free to ask our guides to refill it during meal times, particularly at breakfast and dinner.

While bottled water is available at lodges, prices may range from USD 1 to USD 3 as we ascend in altitude. Alternatively, you can bring water purification tablets or a filtration device

It's commendable that Ghumnajaau prioritizes safety during its treks, especially in high-altitude and challenging environments like the Everest Base Camp trek. Here are some additional considerations and suggestions to further enhance health, safety, and emergency preparedness:

Pre-Trip Health Checks: Encourage travelers to undergo pre-trip health checks, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions or concerns. This can help identify any potential health risks and ensure participants are fit for the journey.

Altitude Sickness Awareness: Educate travelers about the symptoms and risks of altitude sickness and how to prevent it. Provide guidance on proper acclimatization techniques, staying hydrated, and recognizing signs of altitude-related illnesses.

Emergency Communication: Establish reliable communication channels for emergencies, including satellite phones or emergency beacons. Ensure that staff members are trained in emergency response protocols and know how to coordinate evacuation procedures if needed.

Weather Monitoring: Stay informed about weather conditions along the trekking route and adjust plans accordingly to avoid hazardous situations. Educate travelers about the importance of dressing appropriately for changing weather conditions and carrying essential gear like rain gear and warm clothing.

Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments of the trekking route and potential hazards. Develop contingency plans for various scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and unexpected events.

First Aid Training: Provide staff members with regular first aid training and certification to ensure they can effectively respond to medical emergencies. Encourage travelers to familiarize themselves with the contents of the medical kit and how to use them in case of minor injuries or illnesses.

Client Briefings: Conduct pre-departure briefings to inform travelers about safety procedures, emergency protocols, and what to expect during the trek. Encourage open communication between staff and clients to address any concerns or questions before embarking on the journey.

Environmental Stewardship: Promote responsible trekking practices that minimize environmental impact and preserve natural resources. Encourage travelers to adhere to Leave No Trace principles and respect local customs and traditions.

By implementing these measures and fostering a culture of safety and preparedness, Ghumnajaau can continue to provide memorable and rewarding trekking experiences while ensuring the health and well-being of its clients.

For more info: link: https://project.webcreationnepal.com/gj/public/health-safety-issues

Ghumnajaau's team is fueled by a profound passion for alpine adventure and the vast expanse of the great outdoors. With decades of collective experience navigating some of the most remote trails and towering peaks, they proudly identify as high-altitude adventure specialists. The team boasts a rich diversity of backgrounds and qualifications, with many guides hailing from the region itself, fostering a deep understanding and connection to the local culture and environment. Each trip is accompanied by qualified guides who ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants throughout the journey. Additionally, the team maintains a favorable ratio of one porter for every two travelers and one assistant guide for every four, ensuring personalized support and assistance whenever needed. Committed to providing a memorable and enriching trekking experience in the Himalayas, Ghumnajaau's team is dedicated to sharing their expertise and love for the mountains with every adventurer they accompany.

The best seasons to trek to Everest Base Camp are Autumn (latter half of September to December) and Spring (latter half of March to mid-May). In Autumn, mornings are clear with excellent mountain views, though slightly colder than Spring. Days are warmer, but nights can get cold and frosty. Temperatures range from around -10 degrees Celsius at Gorekshep to 25 degrees Celsius at Lukla/Phakding.

During Spring, temperatures are relatively warmer, but nights remain cold and frosty at higher elevations. Temperatures drop as you ascend higher each day. Spring sees the Everest Base Camp bustling with climbers' tents, as April and May are preferred months for climbing Mount Everest.

These seasons offer optimal weather conditions for trekking, with clear mornings providing stunning mountain views. However, it's essential to be prepared for changing weather factors such as sun, snow, and rain during the trek. For more details, you can read further about the best time to visit Nepal at the provided link.

Travel insurance is mandatory and highly recommended for any adventurous trips in Nepal, including the Everest Base Camp trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuation, particularly in cases of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or other emergencies at high altitudes where alternative transportation options are unavailable. It's essential to carefully review the insurance policy and its coverage before making a decision. Participants should carry proof of insurance during the holiday and leave a copy with a trusted contact. Ensuring that the insurance provides adequate protection and covers the activities involved in the trek is crucial for peace of mind and safety throughout the journey.

The provided itinerary serves as a guideline for your trip; however, it is subject to modification based on prevailing situations and your preferences after consulting with your guide. While you have some flexibility in modifying certain aspects of the itinerary, the date of trek completion must align with the original schedule.

Please understand that this is an adventure trip into a remote mountain region, where unforeseen events may necessitate changes to the itinerary. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and in such cases, your guide will recommend the best alternative that closely aligns with the original program.

We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we strive to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience for all participants.

The gear list provided is comprehensive and covers essential equipment for the Everest Base Camp trek. Here's a breakdown of the items listed:

Head gears:

Sunhat

Warm hat

Buffs X 2

Sunglasses

Headlamp with spare batteries

Upper Body:

Thermal or fleece base layer top X 2

Short Sleeve Trekking shirts X 2

Full Sleeve trekking shirts X 2

Soft-shell jacket/fleece jacket X 2

Light down jacket X 1

Hardshell jacket with a hood X 1

Insulated Down Jacket (provided by request)

Lower body:

Thermal or fleece base layer bottom X 2

Trekking trousers/pants X 2

Warm trekking trousers X 1

Hardshell pants

Insulated down pants (optional)

Underwear:

5 pairs of underwear

2 Sports Bra for women

Footwear:

Waterproof Hiking Boots

Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy

Liner socks X 2

Camp shoes

Gaiters (If trekking in March)

Handwear:

Softshell gloves X 1

Heavyweight gloves X 1

Gears / Personal equipment:

Daypack 30-35 litres with rain cover

Waterproof Duffel bag (provided by request)

Down Sleeping bag (-15 C rated) (provided by request)

One-litre capacity water bottle X 2

Trekking poles

Camera with charger or spare batteries

Personal snacks and energy bars

Laundry bag

Padlock (Optional)

Rain Poncho

Large plastic bags

Extra clothes for Kathmandu

Toiletries and hygiene:

Quick-drying towel

Small face towel

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Face mask

Water treatment tools or tablets

Soap and Shampoo/Dry shampoo

Face and body moisturizer

Sunscreen SPF30+ and Lip balm SPF 30+

Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes

Hygiene products

Basic first aid kit (Pepto Bismol, Cipro (500mg tablets), Metronidazole, Hydration salts, Eye drops, Azithromycin (250mg tablets), Diamox (250mg tablets, approx. 20 total), and variety of standard painkillers including Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc)

Documents:

Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion

2 copies of passport-size photos (For Sim card and travel purposes)

Credit cards in case of emergencies

Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport

Travel Insurance and Flight tickets

Make sure to double-check the list against your personal needs and preferences, and consider the weather conditions during your trek. Additionally, ensuring proper fitting and comfort of the gear is essential for a successful trekking experience.

Passport:

All foreign visitors to Nepal must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond their planned departure date.

Visa:

Nepal visa can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) or you can obtain Nepal visa prior to your arrival through the Nepalese embassies, diplomatic missions and consulates near your location. Nepal Visa is also issued at the entry points if you are entering Nepal by land.

Visa Fees:

Nepal visa fees are listed below as per the duration.

Multiple entry 15 days – US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency

Multiple entry 30 days – US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency

Multiple entry 90 days – US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Important Note: It is always advisable to verify the visa requirements upon booking your trip. Visa requirements may vary depending on where you are from and its also recommended to check the transit country requirements as well.

While we share this information in good faith, it is crucial for you to independently verify it and acknowledge that you bear full responsibility for your visa requirements.

Point of Arrival:

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal

Meeting Instructions:

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), proceed to pay your visa fee, apply for Visa On Arrival (VOA), clear customs, and collect your luggage.

Look for a team member holding a placard stating 'Ghumnajaau' outside the arrival hall.

You will be escorted to your hotel for check-in.

Airport Pickup and Drop:

Airport transfers are arranged based on the flight information you provide.

Notify promptly if there are changes to your flight schedule.

Look for a team member holding a placard that reads 'Ghumnajaau' in the arrival area for pickup.

For departure, you will be taken to the airport according to your flight schedule.

Emergency Contact for Airport Transfers:

•             Santosh: +9779840027548

Having clear instructions and emergency contacts ensures a smooth transition upon arrival and departure from Kathmandu. If there are any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Santosh or the team for assistance.