This is the ultimate experience! It combines our 21 day group volunteering program with a trek to Everest Base Camp. This is a very popular choice for many of our volunteers and it’s easy to understand why. When in Nepal you really should take the time to see the mightiest mountains in the world. By choosing to do it this way, you will also be saving money, as we offer a discount to all of our volunteers who go on to trek Everest Base Camp. Amazing package, which is fully guided and supported.
Elevation: 1,400 m
Distance: 7 km Drive to Thamel
Your arrival in Kathmandu. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the city, by a friendly Take on Nepal team member. All volunteers in your group, regardless of where they come from or when they arrive, will be initially housed in the same hotel, giving you the opportunity to get to know each other from Day 1. The excitement builds and the adventure begins.
Elevation: 1,400 m
Distance: 5 – 7 km Walk
Begin the day with breakfast at your hotel. A Take on Nepal Team Member will provide orientation and information about the following day’s trek, to Chisopani. You will be reminded of everything that is needed for your time in the village and shown shops to stock up for the trip ahead.
As Kathmandu is the starting point for all Himalayan trekkers, many shops do exist to cater to Western tastes, although they are quite basic. Any luxuries you cannot do without, should be brought with you from home. It’s also a good idea to carry a stock of energy bars (or chocolate), as these can be difficult to get hold of once you reach the village. These bars could prove a lifeline, if you find the local village food difficult to eat. As well as chocolate bars, we recommend that you purchase toilet paper and any other essential items you may have forgotten. You will also be able to hire/purchase a sleeping bag from a shop in Kathmandu.
After breakfast and the introduction, you’ll be guided to the famous Buddhist Swayambunath Temple in Kathmandu. This temple attracts Buddhists and tourists from around the world. The view of Kathmandu valley from the top of the temple is stunning.The group will then enjoy a local lunch at a typical Nepali restaurant. The time after lunch is allocated for purchasing items for your time in the village.
In the evening, the group will come back together to enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner, after which you will have the opportunity to discuss any concerns and will be briefed on the following day’s plans.
Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Elevation: 1,400 m – 2,100 m
Distance: 13 km Walk
Time to hit the road, so put on your walking boots. The day starts early, with a 7am breakfast at you hotel, after which a car/mini bus will take you on a one hour drive to Sundarijal, on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Your walk to Chisopani will begin in Sundarijal. The trek from Sundarijal to Chisopani takes about six hours. The unpaved road from Kathmandu turns into a trail near a small hydroelectric plant. The trail enters through the Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve. The first settlement you will come across is Mulkharka, with Tamang inhabitants. The route heads down the ridge through a forest of oaks and rhododendron to Chisopani (2300m.) This will be a long day, taking in some truly stunning scenery, and should provide you with some great memories. The pace will be slow, so you don’t need to be super fit to enjoy the experience.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 m
Distance: 9 km Village Walk
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayan mountain range. We strongly encourage everyone to wake up to this unforgettable experience. After breakfast, we will commence our downhill walk to Patybanjyang, where you will experience some great views of the Himalayas. After a short stop in Patybanjyang, we will walk uphill towards Batase Village. The surrounding scenery is breathtaking, looking across a vast valley to see rice fields, villages and people going about their daily lives in rural Nepal. This section of the walk will take you along the ridge of a mountain overlooking the other surrounding mountains. Many travellers have commented on it being a humbling experience. Upon arriving in Batase village at approximately 3pm, you will meet Som’s family and enjoy your first meal in the village.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 m
Distance: 3-5 km Village School Walk
The sounds and sights of the village, children chattering, cocks crowing and a sunrise over the Himalayas, is what will greet you this morning. Enjoy it with a hot cup of tea, in the shadow of snow topped mountains, followed by a group orientation session with your group leader. After breakfast, you will be guided to the village school where you will be introduced to the principal, teachers and students. You will return to the hostel for lunch.
When the children return from school, we encourage you to assist them with their chores (collecting firewood, cutting grass, preparing dinner, etc.), or you have the option of playing and teaching some new games with the younger children and assisting with homework.
Dinner will be provided at approximately 6:30 pm. The evening is your free time to do with as you choose. Many volunteers have loved spending time with the hostel children, teaching and learning through stories, dance and song around the fire.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 m
Distance: 3-5 km Village School Walk
After breakfast, you’ll go to the local school and be provided with orientation about your placement in the classroom. The local students have encountered Western volunteers before, and always find the experience enjoyable. You will return to the hostel at 1pm for lunch, after which you’ll be given the option of returning to the school to continue teaching the students, or carrying out light duties within the village, such as farm work, painting or dinner preparations.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 m
Distance: 3-5 km Village School Walk
On these days your work at the school and in the village will continue as outlined in Day 6. During the week, you’ll be given choices of activities to participate in. Though the first day teaching in the school and working with the villagers can be a little daunting, you’ll find that you quickly get used to the experience.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 m
Distance: 3-5 km Village Walk or Rest
Time for some R&R! Enjoy a relaxing day with your group. Your local guide will take you to the highest mountain top in the village, where the views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular. Here you will enjoy a picnic lunch and some relaxing time, before walking back down to the village for dinner. This day will also be an opportunity for you to share your experiences and thoughts with your group members and leader.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 m
Distance: 3-5 km Village School Walk
On this, your last day of volunteer work, you will spend the morning teaching classes. You will enjoy your last lunch in the village, with the school teachers. After lunch, you’ll say your goodbyes to the teachers and the students, before returning to the hostel.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 m
Distance: 3-5 km Village Walk
Today is a rest day in the village, before your departure for Kathmandu. This is also a good time to catch up on your washing, drying and packing, in preparation for your departure the following morning. PS: The view from the washing line never looked so good.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 1,800 – 2,75 m
Distance: 9 km walk 15km Local Bus Drive
After breakfast you will say your goodbyes to your new friends in Batase, and begin the beautiful hike to the famous village of Nagarkot. It will be a lovely day of walking alongside mountain ridges. Nagarkot is a popular spot, due to its spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges and of the Kathmandu valley. After settling into your hotel, you will have a rest before enjoying a nice dinner with your team.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 2,275 – 1,401 m
Distance: 9 km
Wake up at sunrise to view the spectacular and famous sunrise in Nagarkort. This morning you are in with a good chance of seeing the mighty Mount Everest! After breakfast, you will make the short journey down to Bhaktpaur. Bhaktapur is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, you will see beautifully preserved courtyards and buildings in this old city centre. Bhaktapur is known for the beautiful artworks made from stone, metal and wood. When in Bhaktapur, you must try the curd the city is famous for, it is called JuJu Dhau and is served in traditional clay pots. You’ll never taste anything like it again. Spend a night in a hotel in Bhaktapur.
Included: Breakfast and Lunch
After breakfast, you’ll be driven back to our hotel in Kathmandu. The journey through the busy, bustling streets of Kathmandu will take approximately 1 hour. Once you settle back into your hotel, you will have the rest of the day to do as you choose. Many people take the time to shop (our local guide can advise you on the best shops in the area), others enjoy exploring the cultural side of the city. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a traditional Nepali meal with your group.
Included: Breakfast Only
Elevation: 2,800 – 2,655 m
Distance: 9 km
In the morning, group members will take a spectacular forty-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla; this will be the most exhilarating flight of your life! Lukla is located 2865m above sea level, in the Khumbu region of Eastern Nepal. You will have awe inspiring views of the terraced landscape and river valleys below. After you arrive, your trek begins straight away, with a lovely, short walk to Phakding. Words cannot describe the feeling you will have when you are there. Be prepared to be overwhelmed!
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 2,655 – 3,445 m
Distance: 12 km
Today the real trekking begins as you walk through stunning forests filled with rhododendron, you will also be waking alongside a river named in Nepali as the “milky river” due to its milky colour from the flow of melting of the ice. A highlight of your day will be crossing the famous “yak bridge”, the highest suspension bridge in the world, this is an experience to remember! The days trek ends at Namche Bazaar, Namche Bazaar is incredible, a trading town, the hub of the Everest region right there in the foothills of Mount Everest. It’s like something out of a movie!
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 3,445 – 3,880 – 3,445 m
Distance: 4 -5 km ( 3 to 4 hours hike up and back)
Today is all about acclimatizing! After breakfast, we’ll take a short but relatively steep hike up to the Everest View Hotel for a well earned cup of tea, the Everest View Hotel made it to the Guinness Book of Records for being the highest hotel in the world! On a clear day you will have spectacular views of Ama Dablam or Mother’s Necklace, and the mighty Mount Everest! You’ll have the rest of afternoon free to enjoy the beauty of the traditional mountain village of Namche and the hospitality of the local Sherpa people!
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 3,445 – 3,840 m
Distance: 10.5 km
Today is a special day as you’ll veer off the beaten track and away from the hustle and bustle of the trails as we make our way to the beautiful, traditional village of Phortse. On your way to Phortse you will walk through pine forests, past stupas, and give us breathtaking views of some of the Himalaya’s highest peaks. In Phorste you can learn about the lives of the Sherpa people, many Everest summiteers live in Phortse and it is also home to the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region and to the remains of a yeti.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 3,840 – 4,440 m
Distance: 8 – 9 km
Today you will notice the landscape change dramatically around us as we trek through mossy forests, cross the Imja River, past more intricate Buddhist Mani stones, and climb upwards to Dingboche. You will feel so close to the Himalayas here with Ama Dablam looking down upon you as you trekThis is around the time in our journey where you might begin to feel the effects of the altitude but that’s normal and our guides will be looking out for you, making sure that you are staying hydrated.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 4,440 – 4,730 m – 4,440m
Distance: 5 – 6 km (4 to 5 hours hike up and back)
Today we’ll help up our bodies further acclimatize to the altitude by hiking high and sleeping low – an important part of being a safe and smart trekker! We’ll walk up the mountain ridge that towers over Dingboche with the option of continuing your upward ascent to climb a small peak, taking breaks along the way at stupas with a view, before descending back into Dingboche for a relaxing afternoon.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 4,440 – 4,900 m
Distance: 12 km
After breakfast, we’ll continue our ascent towards the world’s highest glacier, Khumbu, and the village of Lobuche. It’s a difficult day as you will be ascending and feeling the altitude. A memorable part of your day will be the our stop at Khagan Chorten, a beautiful cemetery and spiritual Buddhist site that remembers those who have lost their lives on Everest. Today it is important to walk slow, take plenty of rests and drink a lot of water.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 4,900 – 5,380 – 5,125 m
Distance: 15 km
We’ll start the day heading upwards with a challenging ascent to the village of Gorak Shep for lunch and breathtaking views of the magnificent Mount Pumori. After lunch, we’ll walk along the famous Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp (5380m), where climbers spend over a month acclimatizing and preparing for their summit attempt of the one and only Mount Everest! From Base Camp, we’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Khumbu Icefall, the seasonal tent village that is Base Camp before descending back down to Gorak Shep for the evening. It was be diffiicult for you to sleep tonight but things will become easier tomorrow as we head down.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 5,160 – 5,555 – 3,985 m
Distance: 16.5 km
The high altitude and cold temperatures make this early morning one of the toughest parts of our trek but this mornings trek really is worth getting up for! We’ll trek up to the highest point of our journey, Kala Pathar (5555m), for stunning, unobstructed, 360 views of the highest Himalayan peaks in the morning light. Afterwards you will return for breakfast in Gorak Shep before beginning the decent through the valley, past yaks and rivers to the village of Pheriche. Pheriche is home to the medical medical post used by the Himalayan peak climbers.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 3,985 – 3,445 m
Distance: 22 km (be prepared for long day of walk)
Today we’ll start our big day of trekking early, compared to what you have been though the day will feel relatively easy as you descend all the way down to Namche to Deboche. It’s interesting to be getting the reverse views of trails we took from Lukla days ago, many people find it more enjoyable as you don’t have to contend with the uphill and adjustment to altitude. You’ll find that even on day 10 of our trek, you’ll never tire of the surroundings, and will still be awestruck and surprised by the beauty that is the Himalayas!
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 3,735 – 2,655 m
Distance: 12 km
It’s a relatively easy day today which means that you can enjoy explore the village of Namche before we set off on the trail to Phakding. We’ll arrive early enough which will allow you the afternoon free to relax, do some shopping in the village, or grab a beer a well deserved beer at your lodge or in the village! It’s time to relax and unwind now as you have only 1 short day of trekking left!
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 2,655 – 2,800 m
Distance: 12 km
Today we’ll continue making our way up and down to Lukla for our final night (tear) in the Everest region. In the evening we’ll have our celebratory dinner to reflect and toast to the incredible experience and achievements we shared with your Take on Nepal team and your group members!
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinne
Elevation: 2,800 – 1,400 m
This morning, weather permitting, we’ll take our return flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. It’s likely that you will be departing the region with mixed feelings, sadness to leave the mountains and your team but also excitement because of all that you have achieved. Once we’re back in Kathmandu, you’ll be able to use the rest of your time to shop, have a massage, eat cake and momos before you depart for home or continue on your journey!
Included: Breakfast
NOTE: Flight delays between Lukla to Kathmandu due to weather conditions are quite common and a real possibility. To be on the safe side, we highly recommend booking your departure flight in the late evening of day 15 or the morning of day 16.
Dates | Available | Cost (AUD) | |
---|---|---|---|
25 November 2023 - 20 December 2023 | Available | $3190 |
The mistake many people make, is having too much stuff. There is nothing worse than carting clothing and equipment with (at altitude) in Nepal and ultimately not having needed it. The below list outlines the standard clothing we recommend you take for trekking, 14 – 15 days in the mountains.
If you do not already own these items, we highly recommend that you purchase or hire these items in Kathmandu. They are made to a high quality and it’s always great to support the local economy. Another option is to hire a sleeping bag and jacket at a cost of approximately AUD$50 for each item for a period of 14 days.
You can make a booking by clicking this link.
Treks depart each month, throughout the year. Dates vary depending on the arrival date of a particular group. We can accommodate different departure dates in the same month if required.
No. If you are a couple or small group, and you wish to travel alone, we can accommodate you. We try to bring trekkers together into groups as we find it’s a more enjoyable experience for all, but if you wish a more individual trek for yourself or your companions, we’d be happy to arrange this.
You can apply by clicking this link.
You will have access to ATMs in Kathmandu. We recommend that you carry a minimum of $100 cash with you, make sure this is in $10s and $20s, as you will be paying for your visa at the airport and it safeguards against any issues when you have the correct money.
Some people have asked how much extra money they should take with them. Most of your expenses are covered by the money you have paid, but if you enjoy shopping (and the shopping in Kathmandu is fantastic!), we recommend that you budget around $350 for your stay.
All volunteers should have access to an emergency fund, in the event they decide volunteer life is not for them, or they decide to take a break from village life for a few days. In circumstances such as these, the volunteer would need to cover the costs of transport when departing the village early, and the costs of any extra stays in hotels. For this reason, we recommend that volunteers carry an ATM card so that they can access emergency funds from home if required.
Your accommodation in Kathmandu and Chitwan will be in a hotel with ensuite facilities. You will share your room with someone of the same sex. In the village you will be housed in hostel type accommodation. You will share your room with a maximum of 3 other people and the facilities are shared. Village accommodation is basic but comfortable, and the rooms are clean.
We are very happy for you to share the experience with your friends and we will work with you to ensure that you can be accommodated together during your time in Nepal.
You must be 18 by the date of departure. We do provide the option for a parent/guardian to sign paperwork that grants permission for you to join the program if you are under 18. We would also encourage you to consider inviting an older family member to accompany you on the program to Nepal.
Yes! As long as you are willing to volunteer and improve the lives of the villagers in Nepal, we are more than happy for you to join the program.
We strongly encourage your parents to contact us, as we welcome parental involvement. We will answer any questions your parents may have through email or telephone contact.
Once we have accepted your application, we begin to incur costs for you, as we book accommodation, internal travel, reserve your spot in the game park and so on. So your deposit is non-refundable.
This is a difficult question to answer, as it depends on personality. Some people love the thrill of flying into Lukla and crossing high suspension bridges, but others have to overcome many fears to make this experience a reality.
From my own personal experiences, I tend to be the latter. I’m not a risk taker and I worry a lot. Having flown into Lukla airport and trekked the Everest Base Camp Trail, I can say my fears were unfounded. I enjoyed the flight and found the trek to be the most incredible experience of my life. After crossing the first suspension bridge the rest did not bother me, in fact, I started to look forward to them!
Whenever you trek with us, you will be surrounded by a team of professionals who know what to look out for and will constantly be keeping your wellbeing at the forefront of their minds. Our guides will always put your mind at ease and will act quickly in a situation where you may be feeling uncertain. You’re in safe hands!
When you trek with us, you are most definitely helping the people of Nepal. As one of the only companies hiring young women, you will be supporting our very important work of ending early marriages and human trafficking. We pay above award wages and treat all our team members as family members, we want a happy and productive team and we believe we have achieved that.
We enrol and fund the costs of training for our team members, we also provide our team with accommodation in Kathmandu in order for them to continue their education, we constantly encourage and support our young team to continually advance forwards in life. Our porters are all guides in training, we want them to strive for better and we do our best to assist our team to reach their goals. This is not done by any other trekking company in Nepal.
Our team will share the culture and traditions of Nepal with you, leaving you feeling connected to not only the spectacular mountains, but also to the people of Nepal, who will leave an imprint on your heart. Take on Nepal co-founder Som Tamang, is the founder and president of the not for profit organisation, Friends of Himalayan Children Inc. (FHC). FHC works in remote villages to provide educational opportunities to thousands of children and a safe and nurturing home to 50 young children. Take on Nepal is committed to giving back to Nepal on many different levels. By choosing us as your preferred trekking company, you will be too.
The most important one to be aware of, when trekking to Everest Base Camp, is the many Stupa’s. A Stupa is a Buddhist shrine. Your guide will point them out to you. You must always walk on the right side of the Stupas; in Buddhism it’s considered important to go clockwise, this relates to always moving forward in life, not having regrets or going backwards (anti-clockwise).
Nepal is a developing country, many people live in poverty. It is considered polite to finish all the food on your plate. If you are simply too full to finish your meal, please offer the food to a friend or guide.
It is considered disrespectful to shout in the mountains of the Everest region. Always use a normal speaking voice and refrain from yelling out, unless you absolutely must!
Your guide will make you aware of any other cultural traditions you need to know, during your trek. Please do not hesitate to ask your guide lots of questions. Our guides appreciate you showing an interest in their country and you will leave Nepal full of interesting information.
All our leading guides undergo a training course to receive their license. We do not allow our clients to trek without an experienced, licensed guide leading the way. Our guides also do first aid training and will be offered every opportunity to attend mountaineering, hiking and biking courses wherever possible.
Take on Nepal believe that a well-trained team of professionals, will guarantee positive outcomes. We are also one of the only companies that fly our young trainee guides into Lukla, to begin their journey as trainee guides/porters. Most companies hire their team at Lukla as it reduces their flight expenses.
We feel this is an unfair title. When researching statistics related to the airport, it’s easy to see why this is an exaggeration. Over the past 40 years, there has been only one fatal plane crash. During peak season, up to 30 flights take off and land to/from Lukla, on a daily basis. The airlines are very careful not to fly, unless the conditions are perfect. For this reason, we recommend you always allow a minimum of 2 days free at the end of your trek, before returning to your home country. This will ensure you do not miss your return flight.
The title “most dangerous airport” was given due to the altitude at which the planes land, the surrounding mountains and also because of the length of the runway. It is a short runway, with a steep gradient to allow for flights to land safely. We are sure that you will find it to be an exciting and exhilarating experience!
No, you do not need to be super fit to undertake this trek. However, the fitter you are, the easier and more enjoyable the experience will be. To get prepared, we recommend you stick with the training plan we will provide to you, to ensure the best possible outcome for you for the trek.
We have seen people of all ages and sizes successfully reach Everest Base Camp, fitness is not dependent on size, it is strength that matters most. Strength of mind and self-belief is also another crucial factor, in achieving your goal to reach Everest Base Camp.
We go above and beyond to ensure our porters are treated with respect. We do not allow our male porters to carry more than 20kg and our female porters 15kg. This is much less than other companies. Our porters are paid fair wages and tips are divided amongst guides and porters. We view our porters as an integral part of our team and treat them with the respect that is deserved.
Although our team are paid wages for the work they do, tipping is a way of showing gratitude for a job well done. As a general rule, the average tips given to your team (guides and porters) are 10% of the cost of your trek. For example, if you paid $2,000 for your trekking experience, $200 would be a kind and respectful amount to pay to your team.
We also want to stress that in the unlikely event that you are unhappy with the level of service received from your team, you are not obligated to tip.
Keep in mind that tips make a big difference to the lives of our guides and porters, this money always goes to good use, generally towards caring for their families. Your generosity has a wonderful roll on effect in Nepal. Generous tips result in happiness all round. You will leave Nepal knowing you have rewarded the people who have made your experience what it was and your team will feel gratitude for your kindness.
We understand many trekkers can only get time off work during the Christmas period, this also happens to be the off season in Nepal. From my personal experience of trekking in Nepal, I must say this is my favourite time of year to trek. Although the temperatures are lower, especially once you reach an altitude of above 4,000m, the skies are always clear and blue and the views are second to none. The trails are much quieter and the trekking lodges are less busy, which raises the level of service you receive. Also, flights in and out of Lukla are more reliable, as the weather tends to be predictably clear. Finally, and most importantly, you’re just about guaranteed a great view of Mount Everest!
If you follow our packing list, you will be warm enough at night and cool enough during the day.
You are sure to see Mount Everest at some stage during your trek to Everest Base Camp, the best views of the mountains are between September and May. The only months of the year when you may not get to see Mount Everest are June, July and August; these are the Summer monsoon months but you will certainly know you’re amongst the giant mountains of the world, and will often be walking above the clouds, an incredible feeling!
Our treks can be customised for large groups, small groups, couples and also individuals. The costs outlined on our website are based around groups. If you are trekking as an individual or couple, there may be a small additional cost.
When you trek with Take on Nepal, all main meals are included in the cost of the trek. At each tea house and trekking lodge, you’ll be provided with a menu to choose your meal from. Feedback in relation to the food on the trek is always positive, the menu caters for all tastes!
It is our strong recommendation that you order the traditional Nepalese meal of Dahl Baht for at least 1 or 2 of your daily meals. Dahl Baht consists of rice, vegetable curry and lentil soup. It is a meal that will meet most of your nutritional needs, whilst also being filling and tasty. The people of Nepal have a saying “Dahl Baht Power, 24 Hour!” meaning it provide the energy required for 24 hours.
Accommodation is always on a twin share basis, in cozy lodges along the trekking route. The rooms are basic, they are small with two single beds. You’re provided with a blanket and pillow, but you need to have a sleeping bag to be comfortable and warm at night.
When staying in the lodges, most of your time (other than sleeping) will be spent in the dining room. These Tibetan-style timber dining rooms are an oasis after a day of trekking. They are warm, homely and filled with happy trekkers and guides chatting contently to one another.
Yes! We’re more than happy to adjust the itinerary to make your dream trek a reality. Some people choose to have additional days trekking, while other people are short on time and the itinerary needs to be adjusted to fit in with the time frame allowed. Our expert team can provide you with advice. If you have additional days to spare, we recommend that you join one of our city tours. Kathmandu has a lot to offer!
This is itemized on each tour page. Please note, we highly recommend that you purchase as much as you can in Kathmandu, by purchasing quality goods in Nepal, you will be supporting the local economy.
This is your choice. You will have the option of purchasing internet (Everest Link).
There are small tea houses and lodges along the trails, that sell some necessities. We highly recommend that you have everything you need, before commencing the trek, that way, everything you purchase along the trail will be additional luxuries (such as fruit, biscuits, pringles and soft drink). Prices along the trail are very high and this is out of necessity. We fully encourage you to buy luxury items along the way, in order to support the local economy.
Take on Nepal are very proud to be one of the only companies hiring and training a team of women. We work alongside some of the most vulnerable women in Nepal, providing them with opportunities that are unheard of within Nepal. Our young women guides are trailblazers, paving the way for other young women who wish to break free from the cycle of early marriage and poverty.
When we first started bringing young women along as trainee guides and porters, lodge owners and trekking guides were shocked, and would sometimes disapprove of what we were doing. Attitudes are slowly shifting and now if a woman guide/porter is not working with our group, we are asked about their whereabouts.
Nepal is a male dominated country. Female education is not valued and the expectation is early and more often than not, pre-arranged marriage. Our work with young women in Nepal begins in our co-founder Som Tamang’s home village of Batase. Through the humanitarian not for profit organisation “Friends of Himalayan Children Inc.” we ensure the girls in the village are given every opportunity to attend school. We break down barriers that stop young village girls from achieving their full potential. If the girls attend school and show motivation towards work opportunities, we support them to continue their education in Kathmandu, whilst also providing employment as trainee guides and porters with Take on Nepal. Hiring young village women is something that as a company we are most proud of.
Make sure you wear an old, trusted pair of reliable and comfortable trekking boots or shoes. If purchasing a new pair, do so a minimum of 4 weeks prior to departure, to allow time to break them in properly. It is so important to avoid the possibility of getting blisters, something as simple as that could negatively impact on your trek. We recommend you wear woolen socks when trekking, as they keep your feet warm and dry.
Your trekking fee covers most of your costs, including all of your meals, accommodation, permits and the flight in and out of Lukla (where this destination is included in your trek). However, the costs of “luxuries” are not covered (such as coffee, sweets, alcohol and other souvenirs you may wish to purchase along the way). We recommend you budget approximately $20 per day, to comfortably cover any additional expenses you may encounter.
This can happen due to weather conditions. If your flight in or out of Lukla is delayed, you may end up having to wait 1-2 days for another flight. We recommend that you allow an extra couple of days, when booking your flight out of Nepal, to allow for such an occurrence. The additional time spent in Lukla or Kathmandu will be a personal expense to you, but we will be very happy to organise any logistics, such as your accommodation in Lukla or Kathmandu. Another option is to use a privately chartered helicopter. The cost for this is high, but it’s a guaranteed way to ensure you meet any deadlines you may have.
We’re different to most other trekking companies, in that our porters are often female (to empower and provide employment), and we set the limit at 15kg for our female porters. Our recommneded load for male porters is 20kg unless they choose to carry more, we don’t encourage this but some of our porters are used to carrying heavier loads; we don’t allow any team members to carry more than 30kg’s. 10kg is plenty for your trek and you would also be carrying your personal daypack, which generally weighs 5kg.
You will have reliable Internet access in most places. Many lodges on the Everest Base Camp Trek have Internet access, but you must purchase usage. On other treks it varies, but overall, coverage in Nepal is reasonable but slow. Our team has access to satellite phones during treks, to call for support in the event of an emergency.
Yes, please famialise yourself with our detailed terms and conditions and our cancellation policy. Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. We’re always happy to help!
If you’re in doubt about whether or not you would be able to undertake the trek, we recommend that you visit your doctor for a health check. Overall good health and determination, combined with good coordination and balance, will all work in your favour.
Your safety is our number one priority. Our professional guides are skilled and experienced when responding to emergencies. Take on Nepal have a comprehensive risk management document, that ensures most possibilities have been carefully addressed and plans put in place. Our guides are all trained in First Aid and through their experience and knowledge, know when to call a helicopter for an emergency evacuation. With Take on Nepal, you are in safe hands.
At altitude, sickness can set in at any time. We pace our treks to allow your body to adjust to the change in climate and our team monitoring your wellbeing, throughout the trek. The most common form of altitude sickness is actually called “Acute Mountain Sickness” (AMS). It’s the least dangerous form and symptoms include a light headache, nausea, loss of appetite, insomnia and fatigue. To prevent this from happening we highly recommend that you see your doctor to discuss the medication “Diamox” Diamox works to prevent you suffering from the very real risk of AMS, we want you to make it to Base Camp and highly recommend that you take this medication, it works! If your condition worsens, you will be evacuated out of the region by helicopter, to receive medical treatment at a hospital.
As a female, Nepal is generally very safe. Many of our team members are female and much of our work centres around empowering young women and girls. Most, if not all of our treks, will have a female staff member on board, who will give you strength and inspiration as you trek through the mountains of Nepal.
You will trek for between 4 and 7 hours every day. Our treks are moderately paced, it is not a race. We want you to enjoy the experience and to learn about your surrounds from your guide.
Most accommodation during your treks will be in trekking lodges; the lodges provide basic sleeping facilities and tasty meals. Local families usually operate the lodges. Your evenings will be spent chatting to your guides, porters and fellow trekkers. Unless you have paid an additional charge for a single room, you will share your room with 1 or 2 other trekkers of the same gender. Couples will share a room of their own. Again, the lodges are basic; do not compare them in your mind to any accommodation you have stayed in in Western countries.
On the more heavily touristed trekking trails, such as Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna treks, you will be able to choose from menus with quite a few choices. You will eat dinner and breakfast at the lodge you are staying in, lunch will be at another lodge along the way. Daal bhaat is guaranteed to be on the menu at every stop off, and you can be sure this will be what you guide and porters will be eating. Daal Bhaat isn’t just the most popular meal in Nepal, for many Nepalis it’s the only meal they ever eat. Twice a day, every day of their lives and they don’t feel they’ve eaten properly without it!
All our leading guides undergo a training course to receive their license. We do not allow our clients to trek without an experienced, licensed guide leading the way. Our guides also do first aid training and will be offered every opportunity to attend mountaineering, hiking and biking courses wherever possible.
Take on Nepal believe that a well-trained team of professionals, will guarantee positive outcomes. We are also one of the only companies that fly our young trainee guides into Lukla, to begin their journey as trainee guides/porters. Most companies hire their team at Lukla as it reduces their flight expenses.
You will be able to purchase bottled water all along your trekking route. As a general rule, the cost increases the more isolated you are. We highly recommend you take water-purifying tablets with you, or a water-purifying pen. These can also be purchased in Kathmandu. During your trek, it is crucial that you drink plenty of water, if you don’t, the risk of becoming unwell is much higher.
Travel Insurance is compulsory if you wish to participate in the program. We will require a copy of the insurance certificate and you must also bring a hard copy of your insurance certificate with you to Nepal. You need to ensure that the travel insurance purchased insures for helicopter evacuation above 5500m.
Nepal does not require any vaccinations in order to enter the country. However, we strongly recommend that participants consult with a doctor before departing for Nepal, for information about immunisations and advice on how to stay healthy while traveling.
The mistake many people make is having too much stuff. There is nothing worse than carting clothing and equipment with you for 2 weeks (at altitude) in Nepal and ultimately not having needed it. The list below outlines the standard clothing we recommend, for trekking 14 – 15 days in the mountains.
Your packing list should include the following equipment:
If you do not already own these items, we highly recommend that you purchase or hire these items in Kathmandu. They are made to a high quality and it’s always great to support the local economy. Another option is to hire a sleeping bag and jacket at a cost of approximately AUD$50 for each item for a period of 14 days.
Jeans, Jumpers / Sweaters, Dress Shirts, Dress Shoes, Dresses or Hair Dryers.
We organise all this for you. All the costs are included in the cost of your trek.
All seasons have their pros and cons, but as a general rule, the best time to trek in Nepal is from February to May, when the temperature has warmed after Winter. September through to December is also a fabulous time to trek, during these months the clouds start lifting after the Monsoon rains of June and July, which often leaves you with spectacular views of the Himalayas.
Yes! If you are physically fit, if you love the outdoors and if you have a positive attitude, you will make it. Altitude sickness or injury can end your trek, but this only affects a small percentage of people who trek. Being amongst the tallest peaks in the world is a feeling that cannot be described in words and we recommend that you undertake some basic fitness training, prior to your departure, to ensure it is a positive experience for you.
You can go it alone, but we can assure you it would be a vastly different experience. Our guides bring with them knowledge and experience; this becomes a bridge between the two cultures. You are guaranteed to learn so much more about Nepal and the terrain through which you are trekking, when you are guided. You are also providing employment to people who rely on tourism to survive, they are passionate about their work and we are sure your guide will soon become a friend to you.
In the mountain villages of Nepal, opportunities for women are few. Many young girls have little or no education, and marriage at an early age is still common. Take on Nepal and Friends of Himalayan Children Charity have been working to change this, for many years.
As Take on Nepal has grown, we’ve begun hiring young women and girls from Batase, first to work as porters and then as guides, roles that up to now have been seen as exclusively male. For young village girls, early exposure to paid work as porters and the experience of interacting with Western women, is an eye opener. It provides them with a glimpse of other possible futures, futures far different from the lives their mothers lived and to the lives they may have thought they were going to live.
The trekking industry in Nepal is a male dominated environment. Women guides are unheard of, which is surprising when you consider that a huge proportion of Western trekkers visiting Nepal are women. Spend a few nights staying at various lodges on the trails and you will see that 60% of all trekkers are women, many coming from European countries. At Take on Nepal, we’re all about empowering women, giving the village girls the opportunities that their brothers have and opening their eyes to the possibilities of a larger world.
It is becoming quite common for families to trek to Everest Base Camp together. Children aged 9 and upwards have trekked comfortably to Everest Base Camp and why not take your parents too! Age should not be a barrier to undertake this experience, as long as family members are fit, healthy and have a positive frame of mind, it is a possibility. We can tailor a trek specifically for the needs of your family, as we do recommend adding a few extra days on to the trek.
This is highly recommended as the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. We offer a helpful training program for you, once you have booked, and we’re always on hand to answer your questions. Our team will support and encourage you throughout your trek. Our treks are paced to allow plenty of time for you to reach your daily destination. However, if you choose to undertake the trek without prior training, you will be fine, as long as you have great willpower and plenty of stamina to get you through the tough times.
25 November 2023 - 20 December 2023 |
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