Sherpa Adventure

Overview
Itinerary
What's included
Life on Trek
Equipments

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- Duration
  
  14 days
- Group
  
  16 Pax
- Difficulty
- Accommodation
  
  Hotel / Lodge
- Max.Altitude
  
  5150m
- Season
  
  All Season

Start your journey to Tibet with a spectacular flight over the snowcapped Himalayan mountains like Mt. Everest (8,848m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Mt. Makalu (8,463m) and others. Spending 3 nights in Lhasa in the center of the old city will allow us plenty of time for acclimatization and easy access to the city's main attractions – including Jokhang Temple and the monumental Potala palace of Kings and Dalai Lamas, with its various chapels along with unforgettable roof top views of the holy city.

Leaving Lhasa in our SUV, we travel through this amazing country, staying in the best traditional hotels Tibet has to offer. Thoroughly exploring the towns of Gyantse and Shigatse we visit traditional monasteries and fully immerse ourselves in the Buddhist culture.

Along the Highway we travel through some of the most amazing landscapes on Earth. We pass small Tibetan settlements, nomadic herdsmen wandering across the wide arid plains and awe-inspiring mountain peaks. Equally as fascinating is the wealth of cultural interest and there is plenty of opportunity to explore this side of Tibet, both in Lhasa and the other towns we pass through on our journey back to Kathmandu.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)

Upon arriving at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be received by our airport representatives who will warmly greet you and transfer to the hotel on a private tourist vehicle. We provide 3-star accommodation in the city and we arrange for a trip briefing with dinner in the evening.
Day 2

Sightseeing in Kathmandu

A professional guide and vehicle are provided for a day of sightseeing in and around Kathmandu city. We visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city along with other interesting cultural monuments that dot the valley. These include Boudhanath Stupa (the largest Buddhist shrines in the world), Pashupatinath (the holiest Hindu temple in the world), Durbar Squares (Palaces and fortresses of medieval Kings), along with other popular cultural attractions. We get to observe the lifestyle of Nepalese people, holy sadhus and monks, fascinating history as well as awe-inspiring architecture.
Day 3

Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa (3,660m)

Early morning transfer to the international airport for the hour-long flight to Lhasa. This stunning flight, on a China Southwest Airlines Boeing 757, takes us right across the main Himalayan range and provides us with magnificent mountain views. After landing at Gongar Airport and meeting our Tibetan guide, it is a further 2-hour drive by Land cruiser to Lhasa. It's advisable to rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day due to Lhasa's altitude. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 4

Guided sightseeing in Lhasa

We spend this day visiting several of Lhasa's many monasteries in the company of a guide and interpreter. One of these is the Sera Monastery, one of the best-preserved monasteries in Tibet, within its whitewashed walls and golden roofs, several hundred monks live and study. After lunch we'll visit the Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, as well as the Jokhang Temple. This temple is possibly the most sacred shrine in Tibet and there is always a procession of devout Tibetans through the complex. Surrounding the Jokhang is the Barkor - a maze of narrow cobbled streets that is the central market of Lhasa. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 5

Second day of guided sightseeing in Lhasa

In the morning, we visit the Potala Palace which is the crown jewel of Lhasa. It is a spectacular ancient building, containing private quarters of the Dalai Lama as well as numerous grand state rooms and many important chapels. There has been a Palace on this site since the 5th or 6th century, but the present Palace was constructed in the 17th century. After lunch, we visit the Drepung Monastery, which was founded in the 14th century and was once the largest in the world, with a population of around 10,000 monks. These days that figure is down to several hundred, but there is still much here of interest as it was left relatively unscathed during the Cultural Revolution. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 6

Drive Lhasa to Gyantse (3,950m) - 261 kms

The day begins with our overland journey towards Rongbuk valley. We follow the Friendship Highway by jeep, we cross the Khamba La at elevation of 4,794m from which there are stunning views across the waters of Yamdrok-tso Lake to the snowy summit of Nazin Kang Sa (7,252m). As we continue our journey to westwards over another high pass the Karo La 5,045m, we can view the spectacular sight of a huge glacier tumbling down to within a few hundred meters of the road. After few hours, we arrive to Gyantse passing the beautiful valleys and colourful Tibetan villages. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 7

Drive to Shigatse (3,900m) - 90 kms

This morning we visit the Gyantse Dzong. This fort dates back to the fourteenth century and offers some of the most amazing views of Gyantse and surrounding valleys. Before leaving we also visit the famed Gyantse Kumbum. This magnificent tiered structure is the largest stupa in all of Tibet. If the exquisite gold dome is not enough, this stupa is packed with Tibetan sculptures and paintings.

Thereby, we continue the trip to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet. It is only about a 90 kms drive taking us to Shigatse which is a laid back city that provides excellent opportunity for both relaxation and exploration. Thereafter, exploring the local market we will make a detailed visit to the Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the largest functioning monasteries in Tibet. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 8

Drive to Shegar or New Tingri (4,050m) - 244 kms

The views of this desert plateau provide wondrous entertainment as we travel along the Friendship Highway. This stretch is the most spectacular landscape in Tibet. After passing through the small town of Lhatse we will cross Gyatmso La elevation of 5,220m, the highest pass on our journey. The land quickly descends to plains after Gyatmso La. While travelling through the plains we will see many nomadic herders, quiet countryside, and secluded monasteries. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 9

Drive to Ronguk (5,000m) - 68 kms

As we leave Shigatse, we turn off the Friendship Highway and head south over the Pang La (5,150m) towards the main Himalayan range that give magnificent view stretching from Makalu to Shishapangma. Below the pass, as we turn the corner into the Rongbuk Valley, we can watch the charming view of Everest than ever. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 10

Hike to Everest Base Camp (5,150m) and back to Rongbuk (5,000m) and drive back to Tingri (4,390m) - 65 kms

A highlight of the journey for everyone today as you have the opportunity to explore Everest Base camp. The views of Everest are so close making the mountain seem even more impressive than before. It is a truly breathtaking experience to stare up at the sheer North face of this highest mountain in the world, with Mount Everest towering above you in a looming yet magical way.

After Lunch we get back on Friendship highway and continue our marvellous journey. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 11

Drive to Zhangmu (2,300m) - 181 kms

After we leave Tingri, crossing two high passes, Lalung La at altitude of 5,124m and the Shung La at 5,200m. On the way, we are rewarded by the magnificent landscapes of the surrounding peaks including Shishapangma, Cho Oyu, Menlungtse and Gauri Shankar. Then our journey heads towards the arid Tibetan Plateau to Zhangmu on the Nepalese border. As we leave Tibet, it appears an incredibly lush and green. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 12

Drive to Kathmandu (1,345m)

Leaving Zhangmu behind, we join the Friendship Bridge passing the Bhote Koshi River and mark the Chinese - Nepalese border. After that short drive, we say good-bye to our Tibetan guide. Then we drive and walk to Nepalese Immigration Control in Kodari, there we have our Nepalese staff, completing the re-entry formalities we'll drive towards Kathmandu, which may take 5 hours, it depends on road and weather conditions. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 13

Leisure day in Kathmandu

This is a leisure and free day in Kathmandu for exploration. You are free to go souvenir shopping, spa and more exploration of the city, or extend your trip to include bungee jumping, rafting, mountain biking, Everest mountain flight and other adventurous activities. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner at Mul Chowk Restaurant’s cozy and elegant dining ambience.
Day 14

Departure from Nepal

The trip concludes today. You will be dropped at Kathmandu's Tribhuwan International Airport by our airport representative for your flight departure from Nepal.

What's included

Price Details

Please enquire with us for prices

Price Includes

- All ground transportation by private vehicle for airport and hotel pick up/drop off, sightseeing and transfers
- All domestic flights (if any)
- Accommodation in teahouses and hotels
- All meals during trek
- Entry permit to parks, monuments and cultural landmarks
- Trekking guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s) their daily wages, food, accommodation and other expenses
- Comprehensive medical kit
- In case of emergency, we can send helicopters for evacuation, manage all paperwork, and deal with related insurance companies (provided the client has valid insurance)

Not included

Price Excludes

- International airfare and airport departure tax
- Travel insurance covering medical treatment and evacuation by ground and air
- Nepal entry visa, obtained upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu
- Rescue and evacuation
- Extra road transport/flight cost in case member returns earlier
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and if applicable, in Pokhara
- Items of personal nature like laundry, communication and bar bill
- Tips for trip staff and driver. (Tipping is appreciated)
- Other expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section

Life on Trek

Trekking staff

Whilst on the trek, the Nepali guides and porters will ensure that you are well looked after. Every trek has an English speaking guide, known as the Sirdar, who is in overall charge. It is his responsibility to organize the trek en route and manage the guides and porters and deal with the local peoples and they are experts in trek organization, as well as being able to discuss the local culture, religion, and landscape. In addition there will be other guides, sometimes referred to by the generic term Sherpa, who will be your walking companions on the trek and will assist the Sirdar in organizing the logistic of the trek. On camping treks there will be full kitchen crew who are responsible for all aspects of catering. And finally there will be porters who are the transportation system of the Nepali mountains. They will carry the duffle bags and other equipment as necessary.

Accommodation

Fully equipped Camping treks - accommodation is provided in spacious 2 person tents. We use this method for our climbing trips and some treks where lodges are less frequent.
Lodge trek - accommodation is provided in the local Nepali lodges, some times known as tea- houses. It is usually necessary to share a double room. We use this method for our treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions.

Food

On camping treks, all food is prepared by the trek cook - an expert in preparing delicious camp food. And most importantly, special care is taken to provide well - boiled, purified drinking water. On lodge treks, food is provided in the lodge and this ranges from delicious local specialties to common western dishes. If necessary, bottled water can be purchased from the lodges for a small fee, although many trekkers prefer to use fresh water with the added precaution of a purifying agent. You could bring some Chocolate or special energy drinks for yourself as these are hard to get in the Himalayas.

A typical trekking day

A typical day revolves around the Nepal sunrise and sunset. The day starts with an early wake up call. You then pack up your gear and enjoy a rousing breakfast before starting your morning's walk. The Sirdar will already be organized loads to porters and or animals, and your group will then set off on the trail at a leisurely pace, enjoying the view and stopping to take photographs. After 2-3 hours walk you stop for lunch. This lasts for about 90 minutes which gives you time to relax, or explore the local village. The afternoon's walk is usually shorter and we arrive at the campsite or tea-house in plenty of time to relax and savour the surroundings. Later in the evening dinner is served, giving you an opportunity to sample the delicious food, talk over the day's events, and look forward to another special day on the trails of Nepal.

Health and safety on the trek General

A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on the trek. However we advise that you also carry your personal first aid kit which includes specific items of preference.
We will, in an emergency, arrange for helicopter evacuation. (Note that you are required to hold insurance for this unlikely eventuality).
All meals on our camping trips are prepared to strict hygiene standards specifically for our groups, under the supervision of the trekking staff.
We use tea-houses that we now have strict hygiene standards and provide a broad menu.

High Altitude

Anyone can be affected by Altitude Sickness. However, our itineraries are specifically designed to minimize the risks associated with trekking to high altitudes by building in acclimatization and rest days. In the event of any symptoms we will ensure that the individual descends to a lower altitude to gain a quick recovery.

And finally……….. It must be stressed that whilst trekking in the Nepal Himalaya is challenging and rewarding, you must be prepared for he occasional inconvenience or discomfort. The correct mental attitude to trekking is as important as being physically prepared.

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Equipments

All equipment and food, and your own personal backpacks are carried by the porters or pack animals. It is only necessary to carry a camera or small daypack ! On camping treks all necessary camp equipment is provided - this includes dining tent, dining table and chairs, toilet tent, foam mattresses, and all cooking equipment. The only kit that you will need to bring is your own personal equipment and clothing.

Recommended Trekking Kit

The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend that you take with you. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.

Footwear

Walking boots with suitable ankle support that have been worn - in prior to the trek, and which are waterproof.
Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking andor for traveling
Warm socks for colder areas.
Gaiters ,,in case of rain or snow.

Leg wear

Loose, casual trousers for trekking.
Thermal leggings for colder areas.
Long skirt for women as an alternative to trousers
Waterproof trousers

Body

Selection of T-shirts, and long sleeved shirts, preferably not cotton.
Thermal shirt for colder areas.
Warm shirt, possibly fleece, for colder areas.
Fleece jacket or warm wool jumper.
Windproof, waterproof outer shell garment for higher altitudes.
Down jacket (optional for cold nights & mornings: can be hired in Kathmandu cheaply)

Head Hands

Wool or fleece hat, or balaclava.
Hat or cap for sun protection while trekking.
Sunglasses or goggles.
Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
Warm gloves.

Other Items

Strong rucksack, or large holdall to be carried by porters
Day sack to be carried personally.
Plastic bags or stuff sacks to storeseparate trekking gear inside your main bag.
One liter water bottle.
Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
Sleeping bag 4 season.
Torch, ideally head torch.
Camera and film! - for those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalaya.
Toilet items and towel.
Large handkerchief bandana for neck.

Recommended Mountaineering Kit

In additional to the items mentioned above for trekking the following is a list of the additional specialist items which are required for the trekking peaks.

Plastic or Leather mountaineering boots, with gaitors & crampons that have been tested for a good fit.
Fleece trousers or salopettes.
Additional mitts and gloves suitable for climbing.
Ice ace, and ski poles (Note: ice axe can hired in Kathmandu)
Climbing harness
2 X tape slings
2 X screw gate karabiners.
Descended abseil device Ascender