Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 1

Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek Yeti Mountain Home Comfort Trek Trip Dossier

13 nights l 14 days

www.yetimountainhome.com Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 2

Introduction Trip Details Trip Duration: You want to experience the Everest region, soak up the 14 days / 13 nights including 11 atmosphere of ancient mountain cultures, get a glimpse of a days’ trekking global climbing hotspot and all the other fabulous aspects of this deservedly popular region. Come on the Yeti Trail. You want to Trekking Grade: enjoy the peace and sanctuary of high mountain villages, to get EXHILARATING the insider view, a unique perspective and to stay where no other agencies can go. You want delicious food, hot showers, a warm, In a nutshell: cozy, clean, place to stay with friendly but professional service… breathtaking … off the beaten all the comforts we take for granted in the city but which are such track for a unique perspective on a luxury in the mountains. The Yeti Trail is for you! the Everest range

Flying directly in to the high Khumbu, relish the fantastic trekking Services: under the eyes of many of the world’s highest mountains including All accommodation, meals and Sagamartha, Mother Goddess of the Earth (Everest) herself. internal travel included The Yeti Trail creates a circuit taking us from the tiny airstrip at Lukla through the bustling Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar Best time to travel then follows ancient trading routes to get away from the madding crowds of the main trail up to mystical Thame. The high light Spring: Spring (April-June): come and high point is our stay at YMH Kongde, uniquely located at a and visit when the rhododendrons magnificent vantage point high above the valleys, eye to eye with and alpine flowers are in full Everest – breathtaking! bloom. Expect clear skies and sunshine in the mornings with some light cloud cover later in the About YMH day. Autumn / winter: Autumn / early Yeti Mountain Homes are a group of luxury lodges situated in the Winter (September-December): Khumbu / Everest region of . They are owned by a local at this time of year the weather family offering the full warmth of a traditional Sherpa welcome is normally stable. Expect crisp with the comfort of the best boutique hotels: crisp linen sheets, sunny days and cold evenings. en-suites with hot showers, cosy lounges with log fires and well- Note that October is usually busy stocked bars; local and international cuisine from our talented and trails can feel quite crowded. chefs…. Yeti Mountain Home lodges offer a high-class, high mountain experience beyond compare. On the Yeti Trail trek you’ll Trip Group Size: From two to stay at Yeti Mountain Home lodges in Lukla, Phakding, Monjo, twelve of you. Namche, Thame and Kongde. Have a look at our website www. yetimountainhome.com for more details on each lodge.

Trip Grading: Who is this trip suitable for?

The Yeti Trail is designed for people who want a taste trail and you’ll have Sherpa support every step of the of the high mountain experience, to be amongst the way. If you’re comfortable going on day walks in the Sherpa community, to stretch out into wild, magical hills in your home country (eg the Lake District, UK) or scenery. It’s a great trek for people of with some hiking maybe you swim, cycle, run or take an exercise class experience and enjoy the challenge of moderate days a couple of times a week you should find this trek well out on the hill. This is an EXHILARATING grade trek: within your means. The best preparation for this trek most trek days are 4-5 hours long with only a couple is regular hill walking – getting used to continuous being a little longer; we have steady gains in altitude, moderate exertion on all types of trails; feeling super carefully paced to allow us to acclimatise; the paths comfortable with your gear and knowing how you feel and tracks are a mix of wide, relatively even and as weather, gradients and weariness change. Having well-marked main trails to some more alpine style a hot shower and many other creature comforts to look footpaths on the higher hills. We ask that you have forward to makes each day’s trekking even more of a reasonable level of fitness, but you don’t need to a joy! (And you can always indulge in a massage or be an experienced trekker to enjoy this trip. Your trek other spa treatment at our Namche and Lukla lodges leaders will ensure we take a comfortable pace on the to relax any tired or achy muscles) Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 3

What’s included: all accommodation; meals, ARRIVING IN all transfers; all in-country transport; permits and Park fees; sightseeing; English speaking guide; KATHMANDU one porter/ two clients; all staff insurances; drinking water on trek; a Yeti Mountain Home trek bag; Khumbu We fly in over the peaceful Kathmandu and Kathmandu maps valley and take a deep breath before confronting the chaos of Kathmandu What’s not included: insurance; Nepal visa; airport. Once outside the airport terminal tips for staff; personal equipment and gear; other you will be met by Yeti Mountain Home staff and transferred to your hotel Upon Extensions and extra days: You may like arrival at the hotel your Group Leader to extend your stay in Nepal at either end of the trip. If will give a short Briefing on preparations you are coming from the Americas or have flights that for your trip and the program for the next arrive late evening, you may like to add on an extra day few days. Your international tickets will be at the start of the trip to rest up and work through any collected for reconfirmation of your onward jet lag. It’s also a good time to do any extra shopping flight and your passport will be collected for trekking clothing or equipment. Nepal offers many for the issue of your trekking permit. wonderful sights and activities besides trekking: you Your free time in Kathmandu will normally may wish to spend some time with yoga practice at a be spent on last-minute purchases and Buddhist monastery centre in the Kathmandu valley; getting organized for the trip. Your time jungle safaris in the Chitwan National Park where we in Kathmandu after your return from have a spa resort, Kasara; lakeside walks, paragliding your trip will be free for sightseeing and and mountain biking around the peaceful resort of shopping. You also may like to think about ; rafting and bunjee jumping at The Last Resort booking a Mountain Flight. This flight offers a few hours from the capital – something for everyone. spectacular views of the entire eastern Please contact us ([email protected]) and Himalayan range, including Everest. we’d be happy to talk through some options for you. Our office in Kathmandu can organize this. Just ask your Tour Leader. The cost A Typical Day on the Yeti Trail is currently $US 190 -including airport transfers. Wake up to a hot drink brought to your room by our lovely Sherpa team. Pack your bags and get ready for Please note: Kathmandu airport can be a the day then potter down to a leisurely breakfast. The confusing place so we will briefly explain porters will arrive as you’re breakfasting to carry your the routine here. Once you have passed trek bag up to our next overnight stop. We’ll walk for an through Immigration at Kathmandu airport hour or so before taking a break and of course there please collect your baggage from the are lots of wonderful views, people and interesting baggage belt and proceed directly to the things and photo opp stops along the way too. We Customs officers. Once cleared go out the usually take a lunch along the route then continue two sets of doors where a Yeti Mountain on the trail to reach our next lodge so you have time Home staff member will be waiting for you enough to relax for a while. In Namche and Lukla the - just look for our sign or your name. masseur is on hand all afternoon for appointments: Airport porters are usually very quick to you may like to book in for a treatment. Or you might pick up your bags and head out the Doors. feel like exploring the local village and hills maybe with Don’t worry - just keep the porters in sight your guide or maybe by yourself. We re-group again and the porter fee will be paid by Yeti for drinks around the fire. We finish the day with a three Mountain Home staff outside the terminal. course meal – local style or Western there’s plenty of variety and lots of taste! We tend to drift off to bed fairly early although a quick peak outside at the night sky, particularly higher up where the heavens are really ablaze with stars, can be a late night treat before sleep. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 4

Yeti Trail itinerary overview

Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu! Meet at the monastery and village… talk with your guide and group hotel for briefing, drinks and dinner (D) decide. (BLD YMH Thame)

Day 2: Take the short mountain flight to Lukla Day 8: Thame to Kongde (4,250m) Probably the (2,850m). Check in at YMH Lukla. Afternoon visits toughest day of this trip, we set off on smaller to a local school; Buddhist monastery and the trails picking a way up out of the valley gradually Pasang Lamu Foundation hospital or take a short ascending to the crest of Kongde. Around 7½ hike to a nearby hamlet (B, L, D YMH Lukla) hours trek (BLD YMH Kongde)

Day 3: Trek to Monjo (2840m). Descending Day 9: Kongde day hike. Take in the magnificent through the rhododendrons we follow the Dudh views unparalleled across the Khumbu – with no Khosi river to Phakding where we’ll have lunch. other lodges around we have the entire mountain Criss-crossing glacial river our trail takes us to to ourselves to soak up the scenery, climb a small Monjo and the gateway to Sagarmartha National peak (5000m) or track down the elusive yeti! Park. Around 5hrs trekking (BLD YMH Monjo). (BLD YMH Kongde)

Day 4: Trek Monjo to Namche Bazaar (3,440m). Day 10: Trek to Phakding (2,610m). Descend, After passing through the Gateway, down to the descend, descend … that’s the name of today’s village of Jorsale we leave the river side and head hike as we head back into the warmth of the steadily uphill through the pine forests to emerge valley. Approx 4-5 hours walking (BLD YMH at the high mountain town of Namche Bazaar. Phakding) 4 to 5hrs’ trekking. In the afternoon we rest and acclimatize with a brief orientation walk around Day 11: Our last full day in the mountains. There’s the town. (BLD YMH Namche) a sting in the tail as we make the short ascent to Lukla and a celebratory evening (2,850m) 3-4hrs Day 5: Around Namche: a day to acclimatise trekking (BLD YMH Lukla) and get to know the bustling Sherpa capital. We head slowly up to a fabulous view point to absorb Day 12: A short flight back to Kathmandu. Check the splendour of Everest and the majestic peaks in at our hotel. Free afternoon then dinner at one around then down again to visit to the fascinating of the city’s restaurants (BLD hotel) Sherpa Museum. Afternoon free (BLD YMH Day 13: A half day of sightseeing and then some Namche) time to shop, relax or explore on your own. A Day 6: Trek to Thame (3800m). Turning away from final farewell dinner at Le Sherpa, our acclaimed the main Everest trail we head out past Namche’s Lazimpat restaurant (BLD hotel) gompa to join a high alpine trail contouring Nepali Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu. We transfer flat style along and gently up through pine forest you to the international airport or to the start of and meadows to the hamlet of Thamo. From here your extension trip (B) it’s another couple of hours to the ethereal Thame village. Around 5 hours trekking (BLD YMH Thame)

Day 7: Thame day hike: there are many options for our walk today – continuing up the valley *BB = Bed & Breakfast / AP= Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner / YMH= Yeti Mountain Home towards the Nangpa La, the yak traders’ route; hiking up to a small peak or exploring the The price is based on 4 person Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 5

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu Welcome to Nepal! On arrival in Kathmandu you’ll be met at the airport by our representative (they’ll have a YMH signboard and be waiting outside) There’s a short drive to the Gokarna Forest Resort, our peaceful haven on the outskirts of Kathmandu. This is your hotel base before and after trek. We’ll meet the group and our guide for pre-dinner drinks and a trip briefing in the early evening then move on to dinner in one of the Gokarna’s delightful restaurants. (D) Gokarna Forest Resort is located inside the serene Langtang and Jugal ranges the YMH Lukla after breakfast. temperate Gokarna Forest, the then the Rolwaling Himal, We’ll spend a little time on former private Royal hunting Gaurisankar and Menlumtse introductions, getting to know grounds of the Kings of Nepal. before getting your first each other and sorting the A winding road climbs leads glimpse of Everest on the flight. bags out before setting off. The through the forest up to the Our staff will meet us at the trek start proper, the Khumbu main complex, comprising a airport to escort us (and bring ‘gateway’, is just meters from mix of subtly majestic Malla our luggage) through this long our lodge gate. Passing period architecture, Rana winding one-street town to our through the whitewashed period lodges, and sanctuaries lodge. archway we head gently harmoniously blending with downhill on pitched stone trails Check in, refresh and enjoy nature. Further on exotic through low rhododendron lunch. When the sun shines Forest View cottage rooms forest, past small ‘garden’ (and it very often does here!) are set beside a century old farms and old and new hamlets we’ll take lunch on the terrace restored Hunter’s lodge. A to the banks of the foaming with views over the gateway to quiet peaceful haven set Dudh Koshi river. There will be the Khumbu. In the afternoon between ancient towering plenty of short stops to meet we visit a school, the Buddhist trees with glimpses of the the locals, take photographs monastery (gompa), the Itinerary second fairway in the and just soak up the scenery Pasang Lamu Foundation valley below make the perfect and the clear mountain air hospital and take a short walk getaway for a few days of golf, as we meander along, the round the locale. For anyone relaxation and rejuvenation undulating trail glimpsing who’d like to stretch out a bit at the Spa, enchanting forest views of 6000m snow-capped more we can direct you on a walks, and time close to nature. peaks high above. Passing walk up to a nearby hamlet. the enormous mani stone at (BLD) Thado Kosi we meander up Day 2 Flight to Lukla (2850m) through the many chortens and prayer wheels of Sano We make an early start to take Day 3 Trek to Monjo (2840m) and along to our destination a spectacular, short mountain 4-5 hours trekking of YMH Phakding in time for flight to Lukla, the start point lunch. After soaking up the for our trek. Watch out for the Our trekking crew meet us at sun on the terrace we continue Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 6

on to the village of Monjo. spa. (BLD YMH Namche) high alpine trail contouring The gently undulating trail Nepali flat style along and follows the right bank of the gently up through pine forest Dudh Koshi through Phakding Day 5 Around Namche and meadows to the hamlet village before the first of of Thamo. This trail forms Today it’s important to gain a several river crossings today part of the entry route to little height to help our bodies’ on wire suspension bridges. Tibet, which passes near acclimatize. And to see some Continuing through pine forest the 8,012-metre peak of Cho magnificent views ! The and small villages we come to Oyu, first climbed in 1954. It afternoon is free to explore a break in the trees to catch is also the historical route that the shops and cafes of this sight of the mighty Thamserku the Sherpa’s migrated from delightful little town. (6623m) towering way above. eastern Tibet 800 years ago. A couple more hours of Your guide will take you up We’ll stop for lunch at Thamo, woodland trails and swaying to the Everest View Hotel maybe in the nunnery to join bridges brings us to the small about 400m above the town. the women devotees in their village of Monjo. Our lodge This aptly named lodge is simple homes. Thamo is also for the night is located above a wonderful viewpoint from the home Ang Rita Sherpa, the village with spectacular which to see the ‘rockstars’ of who holds the record for views of Thamserku and the mountain world spread out scaling Mt Everest ten times KusumKangri. Gather again before you: Lhotse, Nuptse, without oxygen. From Thamo for pre-dinner drinks round the Everest, Ama Dablam... they we continue our gradual fire followed by evening meal. ring the deep valley sides ascent up through the hamlet (BLD YMH Monjo) in a magnificent arena. You of Samden. We drop down should also be able to see the now to cross the Bhote Koshi monastery at Tengboche and river as it gushes through some Day 4 Monjo to Namche the trails to Everest. We leave high rock steps tumbling down (3440m) the shimmering peaks to visit falls and whirlpools. Standing the Sherpa Cultural museum on the bridge can be quite 4-5 hours trekking A short walk with its treasure trove of deafening! There’s a final half from our lodge brings us to the delights and intriguing insights hour climb to reach Thame gateway to the Sagamartha into the lives, homes and loves Village and our lodge. (BLD National Park. We stop to have of the Sherpa people. After YMH Thame) a look at the interesting 3D lunch you are free to head map and information boards down to the Namche market whilst our guide sorts out our to browse the shops, chat to Day 7 Thame day hike permits and entry. From here the locals and maybe pick up we’ve another 40 minutes or There are many options for our a souvenir or two. You may so along the sides of the Dudh walk today – continuing up the also see the Tibetan traders Khosi before crossing the valley towards the Nangpa La, who make a yearly journey Bhote Khosi, raging in form a the yak traders’ route; hiking up over the high passes from side valley, and beginning our to a small peak or exploring the the Tibetan plateau with their climb to the Sherpa capital of monastery and village… talk yaks laden with goods to sell Namche Bazaar. The trail zig- with your guide and decide. at the markets. Late in the zags up away from the river, Thame is a wonderful high afternoon there’s an option to gradually ascending to the tree mountain village, with its gentle visit Namche Monastery. The line opening out into a high pastures, rambling alleys, monastery is about 80 years mountain bowl and the vibrant small artists community and old and has beautiful Thanka village of Namche. We pass even a yak farm. The village paintings of Tibetan deities. through the many tiny shops is overlooked by the 14th You are most welcome to burn and colourful stalls picking our century monastery 200m along a butter lamp for your loved way slowly up hand cut stone a rocky ridge. The hike up is ones. (BLD YMH Namche) steps to our wonderful Yeti definitely worth doing, to touch Mountain Home Lodge. This the ancient mani stone walls, is our first night above 3000m admire the fragile thankas Day 6 Trek to Thame (3440m) so it’s important to take it easy and timeless wall paintings. If and let your body adjust. Relax Turning away from the main you wish to climb higher ask with a tea or coffee and maybe Everest trail we head out past your guide to take you up the even take a massage in our Namche’s gompa to join a slopes of Sumdur mountain. If Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 7

you wish to stay low how about Himalayan Thar, lammergaier to Kathmandu! In clear visiting the yak farm or some and Tibetan partridge on the weather this can be one of local homes or heading along open fellside. Back in time for the highlights of your tour, the wide valley bottom towards lunch at the lodge! (BLD YMH with amazing views of the the Tibet border for views of Kongde) surrounding mountains. the Nangpa La and Cho Oyu. On arrival in Kathmandu we’ll (BLD YMH Thame) transfer to Gokarna Resort. Day 10 Trek to Phakding Then you’ve free time to relax (2,610m) or head into the city. We find Day 8 Thame to Kongde most people want to simply Descend, descend, descend (4,250m) unwind and enjoy the hotel … that’s the name of today’s facilities – whatever you Probably the toughest day of hike as we head back into the choose, we’ll help! (BLD hotel) this trip, we set off on smaller warmth of the valley. We take trails picking a way up out of is steady and slow down the the valley gradually ascending winding trails to regain the Day 13 Kathmandu to the crest of Kongde. This main Khumbu valley. There trail was the original route are once again great views After enjoying a leisurely used by the Sherpa in and on this pathway – Kangtega, breakfast at the hotel we’ll be out of the Khumbu valley. It Thamserku from a perspective met by our guide for our day fell into neglect in the 1950s few others glimpse. Rejoining trip to a few of the Kathmandu as the expeditions forged a the main trail at Toktok we valley’s most spectacular and wider trail from Lukla, however find ourselves in familiar important sights and some Thamserku group have spent surroundings for the last vibrant, colourful markets. many years restoring the trail 30 minutes or so along to With a meld of three ancient and today it forms a delightful Phakding. Approx 4-5 hours capitals and their associated pathway through forest then walking (BLD YMH Phakding) palaces, temples and markets picking a line onto the open Kathmandu has a lot to offer moorland of Kongde mountain. culturally and historically. The Day 11 Trek Phakding-Lukla exact itinerary may change There are no other lodges up (2850m) depending on the local here, no other trekkers: just conditions but we shall most us, the wildlife and the most Our last day trekking, with a bit likely visit: Bhoudnath stupa; incredible views of Everest, of a sting in the tail! It’s around Pashupatinath, one of the Lhotse, Nupste and Ama a three hour walk to Lukla, most important temples in S Dablam. This is the high point with the last hour or regaining Asia to the Hindu God Lord of the trip in so many ways! 200m+ height – it’s uphill. On Shiva; Bhaktapur’s Durbar Around 7½ hours trek (BLD the way we’ll have some drink (Kings) Squares , a complex YMH Kongde) stops and a chance to visit of palaces and temples Chaurikharka High School which was formally the social, and Kyongma Monastery. On religious and administrative Day 9 Kongde day hike reaching Lukla we could take a focal point of the ancient city. quick stop for a congratulatory After breakfast we’ll take a group photo at the ‘gateway’ Meet again for a farewell dinner short walk to the local peak of arch then we’ll check-in to our at our very own Le Sherpa Farak Ri (4680m). It’s about lodge for lunch and a rest. The restaurant: a truly lovely last 400m of gradual ascent afternoon is free to explore. night (BLD hotel) across the broad slopes of We celebrate our success on the Kongde ridge. The wide the trail with a final dinner at horizons offer huge panoramas YMH lodge. (BLD YMH Lukla) Day 14 Final day We’ll transfer of the entire Khumbu Valley you to the airport in good time and it’s famed 8000m peaks; for your international flight Everest, Lhotse Makalu, Cho Day 12 Fly Lukla to or onward to your extension Oyu. Ama Dalam stands Kathmandu trip. YMH services end after majestic in the mid ground with breakfast our namesake Thamserku just 35min Flight Wave goodbye nearby. The list of spires and to the Himalaya on a short, tops is long! Look out for hare, but spectacular flight back Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 8

What Makes Nepal So Special? The epic scale of the Everest and Annapurna BACKGROUND ON mountain ranges naturally make these the two most THE REGION popular regions for trekking in Nepal – some of these Nepal is situated in the routes, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek and the central region of the Greater Annapurna Circuit, are regarded as being among the Himalaya and it contains more of the worlds highest best walks in the world. Venture further afield into ‘Wild mountains than any other Nepal’ and you will find pristine mountain scenery, country. These include Makalu, Lhotse, Annapurna, remote villages and a culture still relatively untouched Manaslu, Dhaulagiri and of by tourism. course, Everest. As in Bhutan and Sikkim, the brief but Our tours in Nepal will always spend plenty of time heavy monsoon nourishes in the fascinating city of Kathmandu and give you a an abundance of exotic vegetation which cloak the hills genuine taste of traditional Nepalese culture. If you are with bamboo and a multitude lucky enough to visit during a Buddhist festival you will of other plants, flowers and be a part of an unforgettable celebration, and we also trees. Pleasant rural villages are linked by paths through include an exciting rafting trip down the Seti River and a paddy-fields, forest and yak- game-viewing trip to the famous Chitwan National Park pasture, giving trekkers access to the foothills and mountains on our Nepal Tour. beyond. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 9

The Land industrial towns in Nepal, remaining as figureheads. The including , Butwal, Rana grip on power became The Kingdom of Nepal lies and Bhairwara. About ninety hereditary until the 1950’s along the central section of the per cent of Nepal’s inhabited when with the help of the Greater Himalaya, bordered land area is farmland and Indian Government the Ranas by Tibet to the north and India much of this is in the form of were overthrown and the Shah to the east, south and west. terraced paddy-fields, which king restored to the throne at It encompasses many of the reach high into the Himalayan the head of a parliamentary world’s highest mountains, foothills. A similar proportion of government. This government including Mount Everest Nepal’s 18 million population was dismissed by the king (29,128 ft./8,878 metres) which are farmers. who restored the absolute lies on its northern border. The monarchy. Throughout the 60’s, terrain and climate define three 70’s and 80’s the monarchy distinct regions. The southern History fought to retain its control lowlands (Terai Region) of over power, but as the result Nepal has a hot, tropical Indian For centuries Nepal was divided into principalities, of mass demonstrations and climate. The central hill areas with support from India the have a cooler sub-tropical with the Kirats in the east, the Newars in Kathmandu Valley king agreed, in 1989 to a climate and the northern region constitutional monarchy. In the has an alpine climate. The and the Gurungs and Magars in the mid west. The Kirats following years there was an latter two areas are dissected unsatisfactory and unstable by deep valleys, formed by ruled from 300BC, and were followed by the Lichhavis swing between the middle of run-off from the monsoon and the road Congress Party and snow melt-water. whose descendants today are the Newars. During this the Communist party which The Himalaya range runs along period art thrived in Nepal and made continuity of policy or the northern border of Nepal many of the beautiful wood progression in the country and makes up 16% of the total carvings and sculptures that almost impossible. land area of the country. Some fill the country were produced. On June 1st 2001 Nepal’s of the country’s most rare and With the end of the Lichhavi history took a violent and tragic beautiful animals live in this dynasty around 1200 the Malla turn. Crown Prince Dipendra region, including the snow Kingdom arose lasting for shot 9 members of the royal leopard and Danphe bird. around 600 years. At the end family including his father, King The hill region, made up of of this period at the end of Birendra and his mother Queen the Mahabharat and Churia the 18th century the disunity Aishwarya before turning the ranges cover 65% of the land in the country was halted gun on himself. Dipendra was and climb in elevation from by the Gurkha king Prithvi made king but died due to his 500-3000m. The eastern hills Narayan Shah who conquered injuries the following day. As a receive more monsoon rain, Kathmandu and united the result, King Birendra’s younger while in the west the rivers run country into one kingdom. brother Prince Gyanendra with meltwater. Recognising the threat of was declared King. King the British Raj he ordered Gyanendra attempted to put The low lying terai covers 17% foreign missionaries out of the his stamp on the country as of the country, and consists country and for 100 years the head of state with varying of farming land, sub tropical borders were shut to visitors. results. forest and marshes. Just under In the mid 19th century the 50% of the country’s population During the last few years Nepal Prime Minister Jung Bahadur lives in the Terai region, and has been destabilised by a Rana had become absolute it contains almost all of the Maoist insurgency and this ruler, with the Shah kings was further exacerbated by Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 10

the king’s attempt to impose The two religions coexist, The Kathmandu Valley is autocratic rule in February and many Hindu temples inhabited by commercially and 2005. Conditions deteriorated share the same complex as artistically minded Newars, further until in Spring 2006 the Buddhist shrines. Hindu and who practice a mixture of Nepalese people finally took Buddhist worshippers may Hinduism and Buddhism the initiative and the king was likewise regard the same god and whose ancestors are forced to stand back while with different names while responsible for the creation democratic government was performing religious rites. of Kathmandu, Pathan and reinstated. At the same time At the same time there are Bhaktapur. Other groups a peace process was started localised and minor religions, included the Gurungs of the under UN observation and the such as the animism of the central Nepal hills, the Khas Maoists have been brought Tharus and the ancestor of western Nepal whose own into the government and have worship of the Kirats that have language, Nepali, is the official dismantled the parallel structure in turn influenced the two language of the country. of administration that they had major religions to produce a Tharus are the main ethnic established in many areas. unique vibrant and generally group on the Terai. They have peaceful synthesis of beliefs their own animist religion and Elections held in early 2008 in modern Kathmandu. In the are immune to malaria. In total brought a constitutional capital the main Hindu temple there are thirty five different assembly into power dominated is the Pashupatinath complex, tribal groups, and thirty four by Maoist representatives the main Buddhist stupas languages or dialects. The whose priority was to rubber are at Swayambhunath and official language, Nepali is stamp the abolition of the Boudhanath. derived from Sanskrit and is monarchy. In May 2008 the similar to Hindi. It is written in Assembly formally voted script known as Devanagari. to bring to an end the last People Hindu monarchy in the world and thereby consigned King The deep valleys and high Economy Gyanendra to the status of ridge lines throughout Nepal citizen. His palace becomes a account for the emergence Per capita GDP is just U$260 public museum and all former of isolated ethnic groups. per year, making Nepal one Royal institutions have lost They can be distinguished of the poorest countries in the that part of their name. The geographically. The sherpas world. GDP growth averaged emergence of a democratic are of Tibeto-Burman stock around 5 percent during republic has has brought much and occupy the higher regions the 1990s but the political needed peace and stability to of central and eastern Nepal. instability of the last 5 years Nepal and there is considerable They are mostly Buddhist, with has seen this drop to an optimism about Nepal’s long some Bons. In the mid hills average of around 3 percent. there are a variety of ethnic term political future. Agriculture is the mainstay groups, including the Kirats of the economy, providing a who live in eastern Nepal. livelihood for three-quarters of Religion They are traditionally ancestor the population and accounting worshippers, but now are Nepal was for many years a for 40% of GDP. Industrial mainly Hindu, and ruled the Hindu Kingdom, and ninety activity mainly involves the Kathmandu Valley and their per cent of the population processing of agricultural eastern Kingdom for 1000 are Hindus. In the northern produce including jute, years from the 7th century AD. mountainous areas Buddhism sugarcane, tobacco, and grain, The Gurkhas are part of this becomes predominant. and the manufacture of carpets, group of peoples. clothing and leather goods. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 11

CITIES Everest Region - KATHMANDU Temperature Altitude: 1370m Population: 1,081,845 TRIP timing for your next destination. Your trek Kit bag will then be Kathmandu is the capital of ORGANISATION taken and tied up with other Nepal and the Kathmandu Your Group Leader will meet gear into a load Which heads Valley is the political and you at Kathmandu airport and off early with the porters and cultural heart of the Kingdom. accompany you on the bus to will not be available to you until the next lodge that evening. Founded in the 8th century your hotel where your pre-trip briefing will be given. After this You are usually on the trail by AD by King Gunakamadeva Briefing she/he will generally 8.30 am latest and, following at the join of the Bagmati and be available at breakfast each a good morning’s walk. There Bishnumati rivers the founding morning at the hotel and at will be plenty of time for photo point is the Kashta (wood) pre-arranged times each day stop and hot lemon tea stops. You will get to your next lodge Mandap (temple), built where should you need assistance with anything. by 12.30 pm or latest 1 pm – two old trade routes crossed, lunch at the lodge and in the and now the oldest building On the morning of your afternoon you will be taken in the city. The unification of departure for your trek or tour by your tour leader for a visit please ensure that you have the Valley in the 15th century to the local village and the deposited your valuables in monastery. by Jayasthiti Malla made the hotel safe and received a Kathmandu the administrative receipt. Before breakfast you After your explore of the centre of the area, and it grew should bring all your baggage surrounding area and villages down to the hotel lobby. If you you can go and have a lovely from there. The europhile first wish to store anything in our hot shower and get ready for minister of Kathmandu in the safe storage in the hotel in the HAPPY HOUR at 6 pm – 7 19th century, Jung Bahadur Kathmandu pm . Rana, built many classical while you are out of Kathmandu Happy Hour you get a free soft looking buildings and palaces please ensure that it is clearly drink or a local rum paunch in the city, in contrast to those labeled with your name and or a can of beer with hips of of Newari style that existed the name of your trip and put it snacks. Its also a lovely to time to recap on your memories before. The urban sprawl that in a separate pile to that being taken with you. of the day with your fellow makes up modern Kathmandu trekkers. is in fact two cities, Pathan Dinner is usually served around and Kathmandu. Kathmandu 7 pm. Remember to bring in turn is divided into two area, Daily trek your water bottle to the dining the Old City is between the routine tent so it can be filled by the main north south running road kitchen staff during inner. You will be woken with a (Kantipath) and the Bishnumati Trekking evenings afford some beautiful cup of tea or fresh of the best memories of your to the west (also running coffee brought to your rooms at trek, whether it is sitting around north south), while to the east around 6 – 7 am. talking, playing cards, chatting of Kantipath is the New City. Breakfast will be ready at the with the staff or joining in some Kantipath runs away to the dinning hall, After breakfast singing and dancing with the south across the Bagmati river you will be briefed by your tour local people, it is always a very to Pathan, now incorporated leader about the route and the special time. into greater Kathmandu. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 12

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Joining in Kathmandu Changes in Travel Arrangements and People joining in Kathmandu (LAND Unscheduled Delays ONLY PASSENGERS) should Should you voluntarily decide to alter your travel contact the Yeti Mountain Home arrangements after commencement of your trip, Yeti representative in Kathmandu for Mountain Home is not responsible for any additional charges information about joining your group. involved. Our staff will assist you if possible but you are Pasang Sherpa responsible for organizing these arrangements yourself. Phone: +977 1 4438570 Delays may occur due to weather or transport difficulties and Mobile: +977 9813905863 Yeti Mountain Home will do its best to rectify the situation. Please understand that in this part of the world delays and Email: [email protected] waiting are commonplace and whilst we do our best to keep Skype Id: yetimountainhome to schedule it is not always possible. We are sure you will appreciate this and accept it as part of the whole

Accommodation SHOPPING

Yeti Mountain Home uses several excellent There are a number of specialized 5 Star hotels and on arrival in Kathmandu handicrafts produced in Nepal – pottery you will be transferred to one of these. from Bhaktapur, distinctive weaving from Services at all our hotels include - various regions of Nepal, hand-knitted restaurants, shops, postal and room service, woolen sweaters, Tibetan rugs and carpets, security boxes and laundry services. jewelry and brassware. These and a variety of goods from many other parts of the Himalaya are available in the bazaars. In particular Kathmandu has a number of excellent bookshops dealing specifically on CULTURAL Himalayan climbing, history and culture. CONSIDERATIONS The Thamel area of Kathmandu offers a wide range of shops specializing in trekking Nepal has only been opened to the West and climbing equipment, should you since 1950 and despite the veneer of need to rent or purchase some last minute westernization it is still a very traditional items for your trek. They also have Credit and religious society. As guests we must cards widely accepted but some add the respect this and respond sensitively. Whilst commission charges to the cost of your the Nepalese will never rebuke you for purchase. There are ATM available in al unknowingly offending them it is always major cities of Nepal. desirable to try to respect as many of their customs and beliefs as you can. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 13

During your stay in Nepal the CONSERVATION following, at least, should be Nepal’s environment is extremely fragile. observed: Its rapidly increasing population is putting immeasurable pressure on the country’s l Women and men should not wear high cut environment and resources and it is our shorts. Long, baggy shorts are acceptable to responsibility as visitors to minimize the impact of local people and we advise women to wear our presence. De-forestation is Nepal’s greatest lightweight skirt or trousers. Tops that expose environmental problem and we use cooking gas the shoulders are similarly unacceptable. for all cooking at the lodges. We do not have l Nudity is totally unacceptable so please wear campfires and we strongly discourage trekkers a swimsuit or sarong when bathing. from buying wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the trail. Yeti Mountain Homes have Solar l Overt public displays of affection are hart Solar system for heating our hot water for hot discouraged. showers. l When entering any Nepalese home, monastery or temple always remove your shoes. Disposal of Rubbish l Most Hindus cannot eat food that has been We recommend that each trekker keep a small touched by a foreigner. plastic bag in their daypack and in the lodge to collect personal rubbish during the day. The l It is extremely offensive to throw rubbish into lodge will dispose the rubbish by burning it . any cooking fire. Any non-burnable or non-biodegradables - eg. l For religious reasons Nepalese people are Batteries and plastic bottles - should be kept and offended by being touched on the head and taken back to Kathmandu. similarly never direct the soles of your feet at a person or a religious shrine. Washing and Toilet Facilities l Many Hindu temples may not be open to non- Hindus, so always ask permission. We highly recommend you bring bio-degradable soaps, shampoos and washing liquids/soaps (try l Begging is a harsh reality of life in the Third your local camping or health food shop). World but it is something, which the Nepalese believe should not be encouraged, especially During the day ensure that toilet stops are made by Westerners who do not understand the far off the trail and that all toilet paper is burnt or occasions when it is appropriate. Giving buried. We recommend that you bring a cigarette money to street beggars should always lighter for this purpose. Sanitary napkins and be avoided. Handing out pens, balloons tampons should be kept in a plastic bag during and sweets to children in the villages only the day and only disposed of in the toilet tent at decreases their respect for us and is to be night. strongly discouraged. Tourists, albeit with the best of intentions have created this situation. The best things to share with local people LANGUAGE are photographs of your country and family. Nepali is the national language of Nepal. They love to look at these things as they are However there are also over thirty different ethnic relevant to their own lives. languages. Your Group Leader and Sirdar will l Last but not least, remember that in Nepal speak good English and the other staff will have punctuality has little meaning and patience varying degrees of expertise. Nepalese people and a sense of humor are great assets. Leave are always very willing to help you learn their your watch at home and take things as they language and it is a great ice-breaker. come! Once you have become accustomed to the pace of Nepal you are likely to reassess your frantic Western schedule! Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 14

PHOTOGRAPHY Please make sure that your NAME is clearly legible and it is indicated on the front of the When taking photographs of local people please envelope that you are a member of a. trip, the ask their permission first and respect their wishes. NAME OF THE TRIP and JOINING DATE. Mail to All you need do is hold up your camera first Nepal usually takes between 7 to 10 days, but and wait for a response. The old people often can often take longer. do not wish to be photographed but generally the Nepalese are very good-natured about it. Telephone communication from Nepal is We suggest that you purchase your film before available from either the major hotels or any leaving home. Film is available in Kathmandu one of a number of public communications but it is often out of date and poorly stored. shops. Reverse/collect calls are not possible High quality print film processing is available in from Nepal. Mobile phone pre paid Sim Card Kathmandu and is slightly cheaper than overseas. can be purchased from the airport. There is also a roaming system, which you will be able to Nepal affords unparalleled opportunity for connect in your phone. Fax and email services photography - whether it’s an instamatic or are also readily available. an SLR, ensure that you are familiar with your camera well before your trek. For people with SLRs we recommend a zoom lens to enable you to photograph anything from faces to mountains. A UV and Polarizing filter are also highly recommended. Ensure that you have enough film - it is always better to MONEY MATTERS overestimate film stocks than miss out. For the keen photographer a roll a day would be the Your tour cost includes:

Average usage. A small camera cleaning kit is l 5 Star Hotel accommodations in Nepal on a also a good idea. twin share with Breakfast Basis for the nights listed in the trip itinerary.

l All internal transport by private bus, jeep, and TIME & COMMUNICATION car.

Nepal is about 5 and 1/2 hours ahead of GMT, l Gear package including kit bag & walking 4 and 1/2 hours behind Australian Eastern poles (for use on the trek only),

Standard Time and 10 and 1/2 hours ahead of l Accommodation in good quality comfort” Yeti American Eastern Standard Time. Mountain lodge” on full board on trek with all Mail may be sent to our office representative in attached bathrooms and hot showers. Kathmandu: l All meals including Non Vegetarian and Vegetarian while on trekking.

l Happy Hour from 6- 7 pm. Includes 1 drink Traveller’s Name and snacks. (Family Name in capital letters or underlined) l Porters to carry all personal and group Yeti Mountain Home equipment. l Group Leader. Pasang Sherpa l Emergency medical kit. Phone: +977 1 4438570 l International and domestic airport transfers Mobile: +977 9813905863 l Porter and staff insurance Email: [email protected] l Welcome dinner with drinks Skype Id: yetimountainhome Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 15

Your tour cost does not include: re-converting your Rupees to foreign currency on your departure. A maximum of 15% of the l Items of a personal nature such as postage and laundry. total exchanged can be converted to dollars on departure. l Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu. l Alcoholic beverages. l Airport taxes on departure from Nepal. You can also use ATM machines l Travel Insurance. all over Kathmandu Valley l Visas and visa extension costs. l Excess baggage Currency l Helicopter Evacuation flights from the The unit of currency is the Rupee, which is Mountain area due to accident or High divided into 100 paisa. Denominations are Rs Altitude sickness ( please note that your Travel 1,000, 100, 50, 20, 10,5, 2 and 1 in notes and Rs insurance covers Mountain Rescue Helicopter 1, paisa 50, 25, 10 and 5 in silver. services as they are expensive . USD 1800.00 per hour.. Tipping Tipping is a completely personal and optional Money to Bring with You matter. But for those who wish to tip and/or consider the service exceptional the following is US$ 500 TO 700 will generally be enough for recommended as a guideline: the duration of your trek. The amount required in Kathmandu for meals, sightseeing and transport In Kathmandu 50 Rs for bellboys, waiters and will generally be covered by about US$30 a day. porters is appropriate. At the end of a trek, if For shopping the amount will vary greatly from your group thinks that the staff has done an person to person. If you are contemplating larger outstanding job, a group tip would be greatly items - carpets, jewelry etc - up to US$500 could appreciated. Your Group Leader will advise you in be spent. more detail regarding this matter. However, as an over all guide we offer the following suggestion – Carry your money in traveller’s cheques, such USD130 each per person is sufficient – as American Express or Thomas Cook. Local bank travellers cheques are very difficult to cash. Travellers cheques are most convenient in US$. Security Keep a separate record of your cheque numbers All passports and air tickets will be held by to assist with quick replacement should you our office in Kathmandu as they are needed to lose them. Travelers cheques may be cashed reconfirm your ongoing flights. Valuables, excess most easily at major hotels and it is generally cash and travellers cheques should be left in not possible to cash them out of Kathmandu. the hotel safe during your trek.(Ensure it is all On arrival we recommend that you wait until the together - eg in an envelope and labeled) Whilst hotel to change money as the bank at the airport on the trek your money and camera should be is usually very crowded and the exchange rate kept with you at all times. Do not leave them lying difference is negligible. around unattended in camp or along the trail. Theft is not a major problem in Nepal but it is a When receiving Nepalese currency always check poor country and temptation should be avoided. that none of the notes are TORN as locals will not accept them. Also try to ensure when exchanging money that a proportion of your local currency is Airport Taxes in small denominations, as in the smaller villages These are your responsibility and are not included locals are sometimes unable to change 50.100 in your tour costs. The departure tax from Nepal and 500 Rs notes. is currently 1700 Rs (USD 26) Please check Please Note: When exchanging money at with your travel agent weather your airport tax banks or hotels always ensure that you are given from Katmandu is included on your International an exchange receipt, as this is essential for Ticket. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 16

DOCUMENTATION MEDICAL MATTERS

Visas Any passenger undertaking this trip is All nationalities require a visa for Nepal. It is your required to provide us with a medical responsibility to obtain your own visa. Please visit this questionnaire completed by your website for Nepal Visa information: physician. This form is included with these www.nepalimmigration.gov.np notes. Please have it completed and returned to us not less than 3 months prior NOTE - If you are planning to stay on in Nepal and need to extend your visa you will need an extra 2 passport photos. to departure. If you book within 3 months this form should be returned within 2 weeks of booking. Trekking Permits /Passport Photos As regulations change frequently in Nepal it is strongly Vaccinations advised to always carry 2 spare passport photos For entry into NEPAL there are no statutory with you, in case more than the specified number vaccinations. However, we advise are required. Also please ensure that you have these vaccination against typhoid, tetanus and passport photos on you at the time of the group hepatitis. An injection against cholera is briefing at the hotel on arrival. It causes delays if you officially no longer considered necessary need to go to your main baggage to get them for your unless an outbreak has been reported in trekking permit. the area you may be travelling - you should check with your doctor or medical centre Travel Insurance for current information. We also strongly Yeti Mountain Home INSISTS you take out a personal suggest that you are inoculated against insurance policy to cover you against sickness, meningococcal meningitis. accident, and loss of baggage, cancellation and in the unlikely event that you need emergency evacuation by plane or helicopter due to illness or accident. We offer We believe that there is no an excellent policy (see enclosed brochure), which Malaria risk in Kathmandu will cover this or send us a photocopy of your own policy prior to departure. Please check to see whether your own policy covers evacuation due to unforeseen For Malaria: You don’t need to take any bad weather. Tickets and vouchers will not be issued Malaria Tablets on this trip to Everest without this proven insurance cover. Trekking and visiting Kathmandu. You only need to take Malaria Tablets if you are visiting the CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK Baggage which lies on the southern belt of Nepal. We are only allowed a 15 kg baggage allowance per It is your responsibility to bring sufficient person for the flight to all airports like Lukla, Jomsom, quantities of any specific medications which includes both main and hand baggage, when you require. Consult your doctor before flying out of Lukla or Jomsom and other mountain departure so that he/she knows the airstrip. We suggest you wear all your heavy clothes conditions under which you will be taking and boots and keep your baggage to a minimum. the medication. Advise us of any side effects of any medication you take and Please note: of any dietary requirements related to On all our trips a day in the field is deemed to equal a day in taking them and be sure to let your Group Kathmandu. Thus, if you are scheduled to have three nights in Leader know of any drugs to which you are Kathmandu at the end of your trek and you are delayed a day in Lukla, you will then have only two nights accommodation available allergic. On most trips you will be isolated in Kathmandu. The extra night on the trek cancels out the night in from modern medical facilities, so attention Kathmandu. to medical matters is vital. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 17

Immunisations 6. Rabies is present. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. At least 6 weeks prior to departure you will need to consult your doctor to work out 7. All water should be regarded as being potentially an immunisation schedule relevant to your contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing destination country. For the Himalayas, you teeth or making ice should have first been boiled should be immunised against the following: or otherwise sterilised. Milk is not pasteurised Special Certificate and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk Precautions Required is available and is advised, but make sure that it is reconstituted with sterilised water. Avoid Yellow Fever No 1 dairy products, which are likely to have been Cholera Yes 2 made from un-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked Typhoid & Yes - meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, Polio salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Tetanus Yes Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. Malaria 3 Only if u are visiting the Chitwan 8. There has been a sharp rise in visceral leishmaniasis, and trachoma is fairly common. National Park. Hepatitis 4 - Personal Medical Kit Meningitis 5 We suggest that each passenger bring: Rabies 6 - l Sunburn cream, one to block out the sun and Food & Drink 7 one to apply should you become burnt. Other 8 l Lip-eze to cope with dry or cracking lips. 1. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is l Band-Aid strips. required of travellers coming from infected l Insect repellent.

areas (not from the UK). l Staminate, or a similar powder preparation. Good for adding to your water bottle as a 2. Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, refreshing drink and for fluid-replacing purposes. a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Nepal. However, cholera l Moleskin or leucoplast for blisters/tender skin is a risk in this country and precautions are (cont.....) essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought l Throat lozenges or a bag of glucose sweets.

before deciding whether these precautions l Antiseptic Solution, such as iodine. should include vaccination, as medical l A general antibiotic treatment such as Bactrim, opinion is divided over its effectiveness. antacid tablets, antidiarrheal such as Imodium, 3. There is no malaria risk in the Kathmandu indigestion preparations. Valley or in the region in which you will be l Cold and Flu suppressant.

travelling. The risk, mainly in the benign vivax l Aspirin or equivalent headache remedy. form, exists throughout the year in rural areas l Deep Heat Muscle Rub of the Terai districts of Dhanukha, Mahotari, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Bara, Parsa, Rupendehi, l A pair of nails scissors. Kapilvastu and especially along the Indian l 4”crepe bandage

border. The malignant falciparum form l Elasticized knee and/or ankle support is a great resistant to chloroquine has been reported. help to people who Experience strain in those areas. 4. Hepatitis A, B and E occurs. You should seek specialist advice from your doctor concerning immunisation. Teeth Modern dentistry is unknown in the mountains of 5. Meningitis has been reported in some areas Nepal, so have a checkup before departure. Tooth and you should seek specialist advice from fillings sometimes loosen in cold temperatures and your doctor about this risk. high altitudes, so have them checked. Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 18

ALTITUDE Equipment checklist

For treks going above 5500 m we are very careful The following is an equipment checklist. It covers with acclimatization to altitude. Our trekking what we consider Essential items but you can add schedules have been carefully designed to to it if you think it necessary. Generally, however minimize the effects of altitude. We ascend slowly we find that trekkers tend to bring more than they and ensure an adequate number of rest days to need so try to keep it to a minimum. enable safe acclimatization. It is still possible for l LIGHTWEIGHT WALKING BOOTS (Merrell/ mountain sickness to occur, so a close watch Appalachian or Scarpa)Be sure to wear them is kept on each group member by the Group in well before your trek.- Ensure they have Leader, who is trained in recognizing early plenty of toe room. symptoms of acute mountain sickness. l A PAIR OF RUNNING SHOES OR JOGGERS. These symptoms include bad headache, nausea, lethargy and, in extreme cases, ataxia or loss of l RAINPROOF JACKET WITH HOOD Get a co-ordination and severe breathlessness on rest. good one that is guaranteed waterproof and A mild headache and breathlessness are not windproof, preferably thigh length. Gore- uncommon at altitude but in combination with any Tex or the new Reflex are excellent but a of the above more serious symptoms, immediate little expensive. If you have one, which may descent is imperative. If you or your friends be suitable and want advice before buying display any of these symptoms please make sure please call us. that you inform the Group Leader immediately. It is essential at altitude that you keep your fluid l POLARFLEECE JACKET highly intake up and it is important that you drink at least recommended. These are excellent to wear 4 liters of liquid per day. while walking. They are light, warm even if wet and dry quickly. Very useful at home after the Your Group Leader can advise you more trip also. thoroughly regarding altitude problems. If you wish to know more about acute mountain l A PAIR OF LIGHTWEIGHT PANTS OR LONG sickness a pamphlet is available free from the SHORTS FOR DAYTIME WEAR. Jeans are not Himalayan Rescue Association in Kathmandu recommended for trekking. A light skirt is an or refer to any of the trekking books in our excellent alternative to shorts for women and Recommended Reading list. culturally much more acceptable.

l 1 PAIRS OF WARM TRACK PANT and Trekking pants.

EQUIPMENT & BAGGAGE l THERMAL UNDERWEAR We recommend long CHECKLIST sleeved vest and long-johns.

General considerations: l WINDPROOF/WATERPROOF OVERPANTS

1. Keep the weight and bulk down to a minimum. l 3-4 COTTON T-SHIRTS and long shirts Baggage allowance on most international l LIGHTWEIGHT LONG-SLEEVED SHIRT flights is 15kgs Especially for those prone to sunburn. 2. Don’t bring a lot of clothing for cities. One or l Light Fleeces GLOVES AND FLEECE BINI two changes is all you will need and casual

clothing is acceptable at all hotels. l SUNHAT If you burn easily we recommend a scarf or something to cover your neck. 3. Minimize expense by checking what you

already own. Yeti Mountain Home provides l THONGS OR SANDALS for camp. you, in Kathmandu walking poles and Trekking Kit Bag 60 litres for the use on the trek. l 3-4 PAIRS OF TREKKING SCOCKS Yeti Trail - Kongde Trek www.yetimountainhome.com | 19

l UNDERWEAR and SWIMSUIT What You Carry l SUNGLASSES You should consider carrying extra warm clothing, a rain jacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, l 2 WATER BOTTLES (each should be one liter valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, capacity) -we recommend Sigg or Nalgen lipeze etc. brands. All group gear is carried by porters or pony. l DAY-PACK You need a decent sized pack to carry items you will need during the day, such as camera, water bottle, sweater, sunscreen. Ensure it has comfortable and strong shoulder RECOMMENDED READING and waist straps. A 25- 30 liter capacity pack Guide books is best, especially for the summit day. Lonely Planet Guide, ‘Trekking in the Nepal l 2 EXTRA LARGE/EXTRA THICK PLASTIC Himalaya’ - Stan Armington GARBAGE BAG LINERS These should ‘Trekking in Nepal’ - Stephen Bezruchka be used to line your Tenzing Himalayan Expeditions kitbag to ensure your gear stays Insight Guides -’Nepal’ absolutely dry. Novels l SMALL PLASTIC BAGS OR STUFF SACKS Tenzing and the Sherpa’s of Everest ( Judy and OR PILLOW CASES To separate and keep the Tashi Tenzing (2001) gear in your kitbag in order. Also good rubbish ‘The Snow Leopard’- Peter Matthiessen (Picador bags each day on the trail. 1978) ‘Nepal’ Vol 1 & 11 - Perceval Landon, 1928 l SMALL SEWING KIT ‘Man of Everest’ -Tenzing Norgay Sherpa (George l MONEY BELT G. Harrap 1955) l TOILETRIES Try to buy bio-degradable soap ‘Everest’ - Walt Unsworth (Penguin 1981) and shampoo, usually available from camping ‘Everest : The West Ridge’ - Thomas F. Hornbein or health food stores. Note: toilet paper is (Allen & Unwin 1980) provided on the LODGES. ‘Everest The Hard Way’ - Chris Bonnington l HEADLAMP and SPARE BATTERIES (you may ‘Annapurna’ -Maurice Herzog (The Reprint like to bring a small flashlight also) Society 1954) ‘Annapurna : A Woman’s Place’ - Arlene Blum l CIGARETTE LIGHTER - for burning toilet 1980 paper and rubbish. ‘High Mountains and Cold Seas’ -A biography of l PERSONAL MEDICAL SUPPLIES H.W. Tilman 1982 l CAMERA and FILM and chargers ‘That Untravelled World’ - Eric Shipton 1969 ‘The Way of the White Cloud’ - Lama Anagarika l WOOL SCARF, PENKNIFE, PERSONAL DIARY, Govinda (Buddhism) PLAYING CARDS, GAMES, BOOK ETC. ‘The Gurkhas’ - Byron Farewell (Penguin 1984) l UMBRELLA -*Optional. Makes a great ‘The Kanchenjunga Adventure” - F.S.Smythe 1946 sunshade at lunch! Prepared: undated :FEB 1 2013

Yeti Mountain Home P.O. Box: 3124, Baluwatar-4, Gairidhara Kathmandu, Nepal Telephone: 00977 1 4000711 (hunting line) Fax: 0977 1 4000712 www.yetimountainhome.com