NEPAL
WOMENS EXPEDITION

Yes. At Adventuress in the Wild we work with tour operators who are providing trips for anybody who identifies as a woman. We have found that women are more likely to step out of their comfort zone and try new activities when they are surrounded by other supportive women. All of the tour operators we work with believe that adventure is for every woman no matter your background, ability, body type, or orientation.

You will need to be physically fit for the trekking portion of this trip. There will be steep ascents and descents with irregular footings and you will be walking for 5-7 hours a day on some of the days. We recommend purchasing hiking poles once you reach Nepal if you do not have your own.

A female porter will carry a duffel bag that will be provided for you with up to 8kg in weight. Other luggage can be collected at the end of the trek in Pokhara.

Road travel in Nepal is unpredictable from everything to the road conditions to whether they are blocked or open. Patience will certainly be a virtue but this is all part of the adventure. Having said that, domestic flights are planned for long distances.

Hiking for 5 days through the epic Annapurna Mountains supported by an all-female crew. Meet the locals at a Madi Valley homestay run by women working to alleviate the human impact on the surrounding wilderness and wildlife.

Visit an NGO working to abolish the practice of Chhaupadi – the practice of banishing women from common spaces during their menstrual cycle. Create traditional dishes whilst supporting a social enterprise at a Tibetan refugee camp changing the lives of disadvantaged women.

Visit an all-female monastery challenging patriarchal Buddhist traditions.

Single supplement options are available if you prefer your own room for all nights on the trip except for those spent in teahouses (Days 3-6).

Please bring 2 passport-size photographs for your trekking permit.

Please note that if you travel during monsoon season (June-August) it will be wet! This can impact the views and may also mean changes to the itinerary to accommodate local water levels. Be sure to pack rainproof jackets and trousers. An alternative monsoon itinerary is provided in the notes.

Our operator does not have control over which helicopter service may be used if evacuation is required. Some helicopters are not under the regulation of our operator.

WHEN IS THE FINAL PAYMENT DATE?

This adventure can be booked with a £200 deposit. The remainder of the balance will be paid 70 days prior to departure. If booking within 70 days prior to departure then full payment will be required.

WHERE DOES YOUR TRIP START?

Landmark Kathmandu
Narayanhiti Path Durbar Marg – 1 Kathmandu NEPAL

Description

Landmark Hotel is centrally located and has easy access to all downtown Kathmandu sites.
It has plentiful amenities including a bar, restaurant, free WiFi, and shared storage for guests. Rooms come with air-conditioning, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom with a shower as standard.

Instructions

The pre-agreed taxi booths inside the terminal as you exit the baggage claim have fixed rates of NPR800 to anywhere in the Thamel area from 6 am-8 pm and NPR1000 from 8 pm-6 am. 

If you use the taxi rank outside of the airport you will need to be prepared to bargain hard. Hope to pay NPR600. Depending on the traffic this drive should take 30 to 40 mins.

Porters may offer their services outside the terminal for a fee. Be kind but firm if you do not require their services.

If you would prefer a pre-arranged transfer service option, we can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport – enquire with the Adventuress in the Wild support team at least 14 days before your trip departure. 

You’ll be met outside Kathmandu airport by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign.

In the event of difficulties with your flight or locating your rep please call: +977 980 112 3617

Check-in time at the hotel is after 14:00.

WHERE DOES YOUR TRIP END? 

Landmark Kathmandu
Narayanhiti Path Durbar Marg – 1 Kathmandu NEPAL

Instructions

A taxi to the airport will cost about NPR 800 from 06.00-20.00 and NRP 1000 from 20.00-06.00. Hotel reception or your leader can help you organise a taxi.

Normal check out time is 12 noon. If you are departing later in the day or evening, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.

ACCOMODATION

Hotel (4 nights), Guesthouse (2 nights), Homestay (5 nights), Jungle Resort (1 night)

Teahouses:

Accommodation at tea houses is simple but comfortable and that is a sentiment that is echoed throughout, with simple facilities and food. You will be provided with small shared rooms with twin beds, mattresses, and pillows. 

When teahouses are limited or during high season, dormitories may be the accommodation provided. 

Access to electricity can be tricky and may rely on solar power. Equally, the tea houses in some remote regions don’t have running water and toilets can be a hole in the ground. 

Please be aware that there may be a fee for hot shower facilities and also that a hot shower means a bucket of hot water. Charging devices and WiFi usually have a fee too.

PASSPORTS, VISAS AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 

Passport 

As a general rule, most countries expect that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Please ensure the name on your passport matches the name on your booking and airline tickets. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Your consultant will contact you when this is required. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so you must check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Your consultant will also be happy to point you in the right direction with acquiring visas. Visas can take several weeks to process, so familiarise yourself with any requirements as soon as you have booked your trip to allow for processing time.

NEPAL

Unless you are an Indian passport holder you will require a visa to enter Nepal. These are obtainable from embassies abroad, land borders (including borders with India & Tibet), and on arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan Airport. 

Only fully vaccinated visitors may obtain their visa at the airport. If you are not fully vaccinated you will require a recommendation letter from a Nepal travel agency and you will need to go through a 10-day quarantine.

There may be long queues to get a visa at the airport and you may need to show proof of exit from the country, i.e. flight tickets. Passport photos may be required and the following fees are in US$ (subject to change, cash only). Other currencies are also accepted with differing rates. The following costs were correct at the time of writing:

– Multi entry visa valid for 15 days – US$30
– Multi entry visa valid for 30 days – US$50
– Multi entry visa valid for 90 days – US$125

Your visa application form may require you to state the dates on which you enter and exit that country. We recommend noting your date of entry as a few days before, and the date of exit as a few days after your intended dates to allow for delays or problems. To help calculate the exact dates of these crossings, the http://www.timeanddate.com can be very useful.

Nepal Covid-19 Entry Requirement

For the latest information on what is required to enter Nepal, please check your government’s foreign travel advice and monitor for changes.

Please also visit: https://uploads.mwp.mprod.getusinfo.com/uploads/sites/27/2021/09/nepal-traveler-information-sheet.jpg

MEDICAL AND HEALTH INFORMATION 

General Health
You will need to be in good general health for this trip. If you are unwell, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.

Read through the itinerary carefully and assess if this style of trip is for you. Please note that if a traveller is deemed unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, our operator reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

We recommend you consult with your doctor regarding medical travel information and necessary vaccinations before departure. A first aid kit and personal medical requirements are also recommended as they may not be easily found locally. Check your government’s foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements if you are carrying medical supplies. 

Air Pollution

Air quality in Nepal can deteriorate significantly, particularly during winter. Certain towns, such as Kathmandu, often face severe seasonal smog and heavy pollution. If you have concerns about the impact of air pollution on your health, it is advisable to seek medical advice.

Altitude Sickness

Travelling above 2,500 metres puts you at risk of altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS). This can be life-threatening and can affect anyone, regardless of physical fitness. If you have previously had altitude sickness, engage in physical exercise, or consume alcohol before acclimatising, or have respiratory health issues you are more at risk of developing AMS. 

If your trip involves high altitudes, consult your doctor for personalised advice before you depart. Here are some normal symptoms of being at altitude that you do not need to worry about:  

 -Periods of sleeplessness
– Occasional loss of appetite
– Vivid, wild dreams at around 2500-3800m in altitude
– Unexpected momentary shortness of breath, day and night
– Periodic breathing that wakes you occasionally
– Blocked nose
– Dry cough
– Mild headache

If you are feeling nauseous, dizzy, or are experiencing other symptoms, let your group leader or local representative know immediately.

If it is deemed unsafe for you to continue trekking they will arrange for you to descend to a lower altitude.

All our group leaders or local representatives in the Himalayas are trained in the use of a PAC bag (Portable Altitude Chamber) which they take on trips above 4,200m. It is used in an emergency and only to treat altitude sickness. For other issues, a First Aid kit is carried and all our group leaders or local representatives are First Aid trained. Please check that you are covered up to the maximum altitude by your travel insurance and that you are also covered for helicopter evacuation. You should take proof of this with you and show it to the group leader or local representative.

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
Malaria is a risk in parts of Nepal including Chitwan National Park. Dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis have also been known, including in Kathmandu. To protect yourself, ensure you wear adequate protection and use repellent.

Medical Facilities and Treatment
In Kathmandu medical treatment at international-standard clinics is expensive and you will be required to pay up front. Outside Kathmandu, medical services are extremely limited. Adequate travel health insurance is essential and you must have accessible funds in case of any medical treatment required, including helicopter evacuation.

FOOD AND DIETARY REQUIREMENTS 

Food in Nepal:
There are no meals included while trekking so that you can choose what you want to eat and when. With altitude and physical exercise, appetites can be very different. You will find varied menus in the teahouses, and they can range from traditional Nepalese fare to pizza and apple pie. Vegetarians are well-catered for. 

What you need for spending per day can vary, but it can be up to US$60 per day for meals, snacks, and drinks. Getting supplies to the teahouses gets harder the higher up you go and this is reflected in the prices.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Kathmandu and Pokhara and there is something for all tastes and budgets. 

Alcohol & Caffeine

Alcohol and trekking don’t mix and we recommend avoiding alcohol in the lead-up to the trek. Both alcohol and caffeine increase dehydration so limiting your intake of both is recommended when you’re hiking at high altitudes.

TRANSPORT

Private vehicle, Plane

Luggage Limits

10kg of check-in luggage and 5kg of carry-on hand luggage per person are included with your domestic flight ticket in Nepal and this is strictly monitored. You will be charged for excess baggage (up to 5kg per person only).

Travel Between Kathmandu & Pokhara

Previous travellers have often flown this route independently to avoid the long journey (200km, approx 6+ hours). The flight takes around 35 minutes. If you decide to do the same this will be at your own expense and no refund is available for the road travel.

Road Travel

Roadworks, infrastructure projects, demonstrations and strikes can cause significant delays. Major roadworks around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park are ongoing. Delays, heavy traffic and poor road conditions are part and parcel of road travel in Nepal. 

Monsoon

The weather conditions during monsoon season (June-September) can disrupt travel due to flooding and landslides and air travel and airport problems are also possible. The itinerary may need to change at short notice as a result.

MONEY MATTERS 

Spending Money

When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.

Nepal

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepali rupee (NPR) and is mainly displayed as Rs. USD is widely accepted in Nepal. ATMs can only be found in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bhaktapur. Make sure you carry sufficient cash when outside of these cities. Money exchange facilities are available in Kathmandu, Namche, Pokhara, Chitwan (only outside the park), and Bhaktapur. Credit cards are not widely accepted.

The Government of Nepal has banned the import, export, and use of 500 and 1000 Indian rupee notes. Do not carry these on arrival in Nepal as they will be confiscated and you may be fined.

Most establishments in Asia will not accept old, torn, or faded foreign currency notes and you may struggle to exchange them. Travel with new, clean notes to avoid problems.

Before departing on a trek, make sure you have enough Nepalese currency to purchase meals and drinks, in smaller denominations where possible, as there are no ATMs and larger notes (such as 1000R) can be difficult to change.

The Nepali Rupee cannot be exchanged outside of Nepal as it is a blocked currency. Nepali Rupee can only be obtained in Nepal and any leftover must be exchanged while still in Nepal.

Your Group Leader

If you wish to tip your group leader that is entirely at your own discretion but US$3-4 USD per person per day is a guideline. Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit.

Other Trekking crew ( Assistant Guides and Porters)

Throughout your trip, you may at times have a porter carrying your luggage and assistant guide/s in addition to your leader. We suggest a total of US$4 for each traveller per day which will be distributed. The group leader is not responsible for distributing the tipping to the trekking crew but can assist.

Drivers

Some drivers may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days throughout this trip. A higher tip for drivers that are more involved with the group is suitable but as a baseline, US$2-3 per person, per day is generally appropriate.

Local transport

For a city tour it’s suggested US$2 per person, per day.

Contingency Funds

We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. 

Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). 

Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in US$ but local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

Restaurants: If there’s an additional 10% service charge on the bill tipping is not required. Otherwise, 5-10% of the total bill amount is appropriate.

Phone and internet access

WiFi connections are generally reliable in the hotels in Kathmandu. Free Wi-Fi is usually available in public areas in most hotels but there may be an additional fee for in-room Wi-Fi. The tea houses and lodges along the trekking route may have Wi-Fi at a low price. The higher you go the less reliable the service and the higher the cost. 

Your group leader or local representative will be able to offer some advice on communications in remote areas of the country. Most teahouses use shared electrical outlets in the main dining area, for an additional fee and do not have them available in the rooms. Portable solar chargers are useful in these scenarios.

CLIMATE AND SEASONAL INFORMATION: Nepal’s climate is highly varied from season to season.

June to September: The nightly monsoon rains bring landslides in regional areas and clouds can cover the mountain views. The rain, mud, and leeches deter most trekkers. September can be hot and very humid at the lower altitudes. 

March to April: Warmer weather arrives and along with it spectacular rhododendron blooms. This is a great time to trek.

October to November: This is peak season with clear skies and warm days.

December to February: Cold and snowy. Good trekking conditions, but dress and pack accordingly.

Please also consider that high levels of seasonal smog can lead to decreased visibility including in Kathmandu.

ITINERARY DISCLAIMER 

Alternative Itinerary

An alternative route may be followed during monsoon season to keep away from flooding and landslide-prone areas. Safety is our priority and any changes will be discussed by your group leader or local representative. See below for an example alternative:

Day 1: Pokhara-Naya Pul (45 km/1.5 hrs drive), Naya Pul-Ulleri (5 hrs)
Drive to Naya Pul. Meet the trailhead and proceed downhill to Birethanti (1025m). Gentle uphill walk for a couple of hours to Hille (1475m) with an overnight stop at Ulleri (1960m).

Day 2: Ulleri-Ghorepani (5 hrs)
Uphill walk to Ghorepani (2750m) and then eventually descend to Banthanti (2300m). There will be a climb before you reach Nangathanti (2520m) and then a further hour of climb to reach Ghorepani (2750m).

Day 3: Ghorepani-Tadapani (5 hrs)
Pre-dawn hike up to Poon Hill at 3190m (45 mins). Enjoy the Dhaulagiri & Annapurna Range view. Return to collect your baggage and then meet the trail to Tadapani (2590m). Continue along the ridge line marvelling at the views of the Annapurnas before you descend into dense forest to Tadapani (2700m).

Day 4: Tadapani-Ghandruk (3 hrs)
Starting off along a trail that contours the forested hillside and descends at a steady rate until a steeper descent. At Bhaisi Kharka two routes to Ghandruk converge; you’ll continue descending to the path that follows the Kyunri Khola.

Crossing the stream, the delightful village of Ghandruk is found at the northern edge of the village. This ‘Gurung’ village has become large and prosperous from the pensions of retired Gurkha soldiers. From here you can admire the remarkable views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli and the famous Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).

Day 5: Ghandruk-Nayapul (4 hrs)-Pokhara (1.5 hrs drive)
As you leave, there is a steep descent to the trail junction and then down to the village of Chane. Following more downhill pathways you’ll arrive in Syauli Bazaar before journeying on to Birethanti and shortly thereafter you will meet the vehicles for the mission back to Pokhara.

Optional Activities

Popular activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn’t an exhaustive list and prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available, so some pre-planning is advised. When pre-booking is recommended to look for a note in the Special Information section of the itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested in the Welcome Meeting.

Where activities are considered medium or high risk, the operator works with operators whose safety and credentials they have sighted and assessed. Medium and high-risk activities not listed have not been assessed and as such the group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with these activities. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own risk.

• Kathmandu – Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure – USD68
• Kathmandu – Rickshaw Night Explorer Urban Adventure – USD55
• Kathmandu – Everest Scenic Flight – USD240
• Activity – Free
• Chitwan – Bird watching walk – Free

Who is the trip host?

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders or local representatives to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training another group leader or local representative.

They will provide you with information, offer suggestions for things to do and places to visit and recommend local eateries. You can expect a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. If you want to know more about the local culture at a specific location then they can recommend a local guide service.

Strikes

Demonstrations and protests are common in Nepal and strikes regularly occur that may result in curfews or roadblocks being enforced at short notice. These can lead to businesses closing and vehicles not being allowed on the roads. Avoid any demonstrations or political gatherings and follow local advice, including that of your group leader or local representative should this arise.

Petty Theft & Crime

Pickpocketing and petty theft are common, especially where there are tourists or foreigners. Be aware when out at night, avoid walking on your own and don’t carry large sums of cash. Make use of the hotel safe for your valuables where possible. A government crackdown on illegal activities means that restaurants and bars must now close at midnight and foreigners that stay after closing have been held by police. Police presence has been increased in Thamel and Durbar Marg to reduce crime in these areas. If you have been a victim of any crime you should report it to the police.

Altitude

Altitude sickness is a risk, including on the Annapurna, Langtang and Everest Base Camp treks. Familiarise yourself with signs and symptoms before your departure and keep an eye on your health during your trek for any symptoms that may arise.

Insurance

Travel and trekking above 3000m must be included on your travel insurance if on your itinerary, including mountain rescue services and helicopter evacuation costs.

Festivals

Holi Festival (23-25 March 2024), can sometimes be risky as the revellers are often heavily intoxicated and it is often associated with violence and danger. You will be advised where to avoid on this day and it may be necessary to implement itinerary changes as the situation requires.

Travelling during the Hindu festival Diwali (12 Nov 2023, 1 Nov 2024) can be dangerous due to lots of amateur fireworks being let off in the streets. It can be very noisy and polluted as a result. There are often injuries caused by these fireworks as their sale is not restricted or controlled in any manner. Itinerary changes to avoid risk may be necessary.

Internal Flights

Only reputable airlines that have passed strict safety audits, such as Buddha Air and Summit Air, are used for the included domestic flights in Nepal.

Problems and emergency contact information

While your operator endeavours to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

There may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction – if this is the case, please ask to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will allow us to resolve the issue in real time.

Who is the guide?

The operator of this tour is Intrepid Travel

Travel insurance is compulsory for those travelling internationally. Make sure that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. 

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company’s 24-hour emergency contact number has been seen by your group leader or local representative.

If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank’s name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.

For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognising personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise.

TREKKING EQUIPMENT
* Trekking boots (broken in)
* Waterproof 3/4 season jacket and trousers (can be hired/purchased in Kathmandu)
* Good quality socks
* Thermal underwear/layers
* Down jacket (can be hired/purchased in Kathmandu)
* Trousers – lightweight, loose fitting, trekking trousers.
* Shorts or skirt for summer
* Sleeveless fleece and extra layers for winter departures (Dec-Feb)
* Warm hat and sun hat
* Sunglasses with UV protection
* Head torch (spare batteries)
* Sunscreen and lip balm
* Light weight towel
* Sarong
* Personal first aid kit
* Biodegradable wet wipes/toilet paper
* Hand sanitizer gel
* Trail mix/nuts/muesli bars
* Hot water bottle (winter months)

* Daypack – Must have the capacity for the items you may be carrying on a day’s walk: rain jacket, trousers, warm clothing, water bottle, camera equipment, washing items and other personal effects. A hip/waist strap provides additional comfort. You should consider day packs of at least a 30 to 40 litre capacity.

Let us know if you would like to pay for your trip in instalments. The first instalment will always be the required deposit amount. Instalments are only available if making payments before the trip’s final payment date. The entire balance must be paid on the final payment date. 

Contact us at info@adventuressinthewild.com for more information

This booking will be subject to Intrepid Travel’s Booking Conditions, and Adventuress in the Wild Booking Conditions