Makalu, West Col & Sherpani Col Trek

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Max Elevation: 5,700m/18,700ft at Sherpani Col.
Price: USD:3990
https://nepalvisiontreks.com/public

Trip Introduction

Makalu, West Col & Sherpani Col Trek is one of the adventurous treks in the truly remote and wild region of the Great Himalayas of Nepal. The trek also passes through the Makalu and Barun Valley, the Himalayan glacier valley situated at the base of Mt. Makalu (8,481m/27,825ft)  which is one of the Eight-thousander and the fifth highest mountain in the world. The valley lies entirely inside the Makalu Barun National Park, a heaven for alpine terrain and Orchids.
 

Makalu, West Col & Sherpani Trek Trip Introduction:

The challenging trek of Makalu follows the trekking-hiking route to Everest. The trek offers majestic views of Mt. Makalu and Kanchenjunga, later with more stunning views of the Khumbakarna mountain range as you enter the Barun valley of the Makalu basin. We get an amazing opportunity to witness the mesmerizing view of the Kanchenjunga massif, Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, Chamlang, and the rarely-seen Kangshung face of Everest.
 
This walk-in follows a picturesque but rarely trekked route, which passes through numerous ethnic settlements. You can stay a couple of days for acclimatization at Sherson and beyond in the laps of these giant peaks. From here, one can move to a higher camp at the foot of the Barun Glacier. The trek can be an amazing journey to blend with the wildness of the area. We might need to camp at multiple places on our journey. 

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary Outline:

1st Day: Arrival day in Kathmandu
2nd Day: Preparation for the trek
3rd Day: 50-minute flight to Tumlingtar and camping
4th Day: Trek to Mani-Bhanjyang, 5-6 hrs walk
5th Day: Trek to Chichila, 5-6 hrs walk
6th Day: Trek to Num, 5-6 hrs walk
7th Day: Trek to Seduwa, 5 hrs walk
8th Day: Trek to Tashi Gaun, 3-4 hrs walk
9th Day: Trek to Kahuma Danda, a 5-6 hours walk
10th Day: Trek to Mumbuk, 5-6 hrs walk
11th Day: Trek to Nehe Kharka, 6-7 hrs walk
12th Day: Trek to Sherson, 6-7 hrs walk
13th Day: Acclimatization day at Sherson
14th Day: Trek to Barun-the Base Camp, 2-3 hrs walk
15th Day: Trek to High Camp, 4-5 hrs walk
16th Day: Camping(5,700m/18696ft), 4-5 hrs walk
17th Day: Rest day
18th Day: Camp on the Moraine, after crossing Sherpani col
19th Day: Trek to Panch Pokhari, 4-5 hrs walk
20th Day: Trek to Amphu Labtsa base camp
21st Day: Traverse Amphu Labtsa Pass and trek to Chhukung
22nd Day: Trek to Tyangboche, 5-6 hrs
23rd Day: Trek to Namche Bazaar, a 5-6 hrs walk
24th Day: Trek to Lukla, 6-7 hrs walk
25th Day: Fly back to Kathmandu
26th Day: Leisure at Kathmandu
27th Day: Departure from Kathmandu

Day to Day Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary: 

#@#Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
#@#Welcome to the Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be waiting to welcome you and assists you to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu. After taking some time to get refreshed, you'll meet again in the evening. We will then transfer for a welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurants in the heart of Kathmandu where we will also have a short briefing about your trip and overnight at the Hotel.
 
#@#Day 02: Trek preparation
#@#We will be preparing for the trekking and necessary arrangements on this day. We will have a short briefing about your trip, what is your responsibility, and what to do and don't do on the trek in the evening. We will also have an introduction session with our fellow trekking staff. You'll have a chance to ask the remaining questions. You can spend the remaining time exploring the surrounding areas or simply relax at the hotel.
 
#@#Day 03: Flight to Tumlingtar (950m/3,116ft), 50 minutes flight and camp
#@#You'll be transferred to a domestic airport to fly to Tumlingta. You will have an amazing flight overlooking a range of snow-capped peaks from Langtang all the way to Mt. Everest, Makalu & Mt. Kanchenjunga. After arriving at Tumlingtar airport, which is a village town located on a shelf above the Arun River. We'll walk beside the airstrip continuing the walk to reach the camp for the overnight stay. We'll meet up with our crews for the trekking. You can explore the town for the rest of the time. Overnight at a tented camp.
 
#@#Day 04: Trek to Mani-Bhanjyang (1,200m/3,936ft), 5-6 hrs walk
#@#We will start our adventurous journey from Tumlingtar with a pleasant walk for an hour, passing through the farm fields and villages. The trail will climb up gradually towards Khadbari in the midst of the sub-tropical forest of Sal tree (Sorea-Robusta). You'll witness many more farm fields along the way, as we come to the town of Khadbari. It is a major town in the Makalu region. With further up and down walk for a few more minutes, the trail will lead us to the camp at Mani Bhanjyang.
 
#@#Day 05: Trek to Chichila (1,800m/5,904ft), 5-6 hrs walk
#@#We will start our adventure by ascending 3 to 4 hours to the ridge on a wide and well-used trail. We will stop at Bhotebas, our lunch stop. After lunch, we will walk further passing through fertile land and a forested path. The path will eventually bring you to the top of the small ridge at Chichila village for the overnight after a few hour's walk. Chichila village is settled with few local houses with superb scenic mountains of Mt. Makalu and Khumbakarna range.
 
#@#Day 06: Trek to Num (1,500m/4,920ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#Our journey further to Num will lead us through the cool and serene forest of rhododendron, oaks, and hemlocks as we climb to the top of the ridge. From the top, it is almost downhill for two hours till we reach Num. We will have our shelter for the day at our camp at Num, which is a small village with about fifteen houses and a primary school on the large flat ground. We will have a good view of our route for the next couple of days from the village.
 
#@#Day 07: Trek to Seduwa (1,493m/4,897ft), 5 hrs walk
#@#We will descend incredibly steep and terraced slopes towards the Arun River, nearly 800 meters below. The lower slopes of this narrow valley are densely forested and the paths are quite slippery. We will cross the suspension bridge across the torrential Arun River after reaching the bottom. We will again climb back out of the rain forest, reaching our lunch place at Runruma. We will further take a steep climb that will take us up to Seduwa, a village with a small health post and a primary school nearby.  We will be camping in Seduwa for the night.
 
#@#Day 08: Trek to Tashi Gaun (2,200m/7,216ft), 3-4 hrs walk
#@#We will have an easy and pleasant short walk that will take you to some rural farm villages, on the gradual trail through the farm fields and terraces.  As we will approach the Tashi Gaon, it's an uphill climb for an hour through the millet and rice fields. We'll have our overnight at camp. You can utilize the rest of the time walking around the village.
 
#@#Day 09: Trek to Kahuma Danda (3,500m/11,480ft), a 5-6 hours walk
#@#Tashi Gaun is the last village up to the Makalu and after this village, the walk will be refreshing for an hour and a half taking us through the beautiful shade of the rhododendron and oaks forest. After leaving the dense forest, we come nearer to summer pastures with traces of temporarily made shepherd huts. From here onwards, till we reach the Kahuma ridge, it will be a strenuous uphill climb, as the tree lines decline for the bushes of rhododendron and juniper. We'll stay here for the night. The place offers a great view of scenic mountain ranges.
 
#@#Day 10: Trek to Mumbuk (3,400m/11,152ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#After the superb mountain view and the surrounding landscapes, our trek will follow a gradual trail with a few ups and down as we pass through the Thulo Pokhari (big pond) and Sano Pokhari (small pond). The path from here can be quite misleading if there is heavy snow. It will be arduous to find the trail sometime and further walking across the pass of Tutu-la(4,075m) might be risky to walk during the heavy snowfall. We will move with our journey downhill back to vegetation, a small clearing place for camping in the middle of the woods of pines, hemlock, birch, and rhododendrons to reach Mumbuk. Overnight.
 
#@#Day 11: Trek to Nehe Kharka (3,750m/12,300ft) 6-7 hrs walk
#@#Our camp will be settled in the shade of the tree. The view of the Kumbakarna can be seen through the vegetation of the tree lines and the walk from here will be downhill to the enclosed and concealed Barun Valley. Barun Valley is one of the least explored areas in the eastern Himalayan region of Nepal. These unique landscapes within the Makalu-Barun National Park are home to some 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 bird species, and 75 species of mammals, including the, endangers clouded leopard, red panda, and musk deer. As we reach the lush alpine area of Barun Valley, the walk will be much more pleasant with gradual uphill slopes, following the Barun River upstream on the valley gorge towards our camp at Nehe-Kharka, one of the summer pastures for the local folks of Tashi and Navagaun.
 
#@#Day 12: Trek to Sherson (4,600m/15,088ft) 6-7 hrs walk
#@#Our trek will move onward crossing the wooden bridge on the Barun River. We will be walking on the boulders, where there is a large prayer wall at Ramara. We reach there after a 2-3 hour walk. You will notice that the vegetation gets sparse, although the rhododendron, barberries, cotoneaster, and juniper bushes persist for some time. With a pleasant walk, we will come nearer to Sherson in sight of the lower Barun glacier and the towering majestic Mt. Makalu. Sherson is also the lower base camp of Mt. Makalu. There is a number of stone enclosures at this high grazing ground with an outstanding view of a host of peaks, including the upper part of Makalu's south face, and Mt. Baruntse(7,220m). We will make the camp for the night at Sherson.
 
#@#Day 13: Acclimatization day
#@#You will have a full day's rest at the camp or for acclimatization. You can visit some interesting hikes and viewpoints to explore. You can also go on the most scenic walk on the right side of the camp above for a closer view of Mt. Makalu, Barun Pokhari, and the view of the rare face of Everest (the Kanshung face with Lhotse). A one-hour steep up will bring you to the large meadow.  You can also walk farther up to have a greater view of the mentioned peaks and more other peaks of this area and beyond. After exploring the area, we will stroll back to the camp.
 
#@#Day 14: Trek to Barun-tse Base Camp (4,800m/15,744ft), 2-3 hrs walk
#@#From Sherson, we will continue our walk to a more isolated area towards the higher base camp, which is less than a three-hour trek above Sherson, at the snout of the Barun glacier, near its glacial pond. On arriving at the camp, you are free for a short hike above this camp. You can take a climb on the moraine ridge, for more spectacular views of Mt.Makalu. The place also offers a sight of the usual hidden east sides of Lhotse and Everest, which looms above the Barun glacier to the North West. We will spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, preparing for the next big adventure. Some of the porters will set off back with equipment that we do not need to take with us making the load as light as possible to overcome the traverse over Sherpani Col and beyond.
 
#@#Day 15: Trek to High Camp (5,200m/17,056ft), 4-5 hrs walk
#@#Our journey from the base camp will head westwards to camp just below Makalu's west pillar, as the altitude gains slowly. We will take our time with enough breaks in this high terrain.  Our walk will follow a path that climbs an ablation valley on the west side of the Barun glacier. Following this valley onto the glacier, we will make our way over the boulder-strewn caves and ice to a camp known as Puja Camp which is located just below the towering Mt. Makalau's West Pillar. Our strenuous trek on the glacier will be rewarded with unique views of Lhotse and the rare Kangshung face of Everest. Overnight camp on the clearing of the moraine.
 
#@#Day 16: Camp at (5,700m/18696ft), 4-5 hrs walk
#@#We will be leaving our camp taking the path that follows a steep climb up the rocky slopes of the Barun's west bank until a line of cairns leads us into the valley where two small glaciers are fed by the slopes of the Sherpani Col. We will make our camp beneath the ice cliffs at the terminus of these two glaciers after 4-5 hours of vigorous climb.
 
#@#Day 17: Rest day. O/N Camp
#@#We will be taking an important rest day for acclimatization before we reach the hard high climb. At this altitude, the place offers superb views of the giant West Face and West Pillar of Makalu. Here our expert guides will check the route and make the pass accessible by fixing ropes en route pass.
 
#@#Day 18: Camp on the Moraine (5,640m/18,500ft), after crossing Sherpani col.
#@#This will be a very big day! Leaving the camp before dawn, we will climb on the icy snout of the Sherpani Glacier. The three separate Cols will give access to the Cirque. We will choose the most appropriate of these routes, according to the prevailing conditions. Then, our climb will follow on steep snow-covered slopes, with the backup of the fixed ropes which we had set up on the previous day. From the Col, we will rope up to cross the glacier to the rocky crest of the West Col. This stunning cirque is framed by the sweep of Baruntse's icy ridges to the north, the vast cliffs of Makalu, the wall of Chamlang to the south and the shapely spire of Ama Dablam ahead of us to the west. We will be having our packed lunch at the world's highest picnic spots. In the meantime, our guides will scout the safe route down the West Col. After a break, a descent from the Col on fixed lines will lead us to the Hongu Glacier. We will end our long hard day with a gradual walk over snow slopes down to our camp on the moraine.
 
#@#Day 19: Trek to Panch Pokhari (5,480m/17,975ft), 4-5 hrs walk
#@#Our journey will lead us to our next adventure over the Amphu Laptsa before we head towards the main busy trail of Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Thyangboche. The walk will follow across the wide reaches of the upper Hongu Basin towards Kang Leyamura a 6,430 m peak to the west. Following the rocky glacier in the beginning, then towards old and more recent moraine deposits, we will eventually reach the beautiful Panch Pokhari meaning ‘five ponds’, We will make our camp near to the largest pond at the foot of our final pass Amphu Labtsa (5,780m).
 
#@#Day 20: Trek to Amphu Labtsa Base Camp
#@#We will start our trek after breakfast at the Amphu Labtsa Base Camp. Here our guides will go up to the Amphu Labtsa and will fix ropes on some difficult sections for the safe descent towards Imjatse Valley.
 
#@#Day 21: Traverse Amphu Labtsa Pass 5,780m and trek to Chhukung (4,730m/15,515ft), 7-8 hrs walk
#@#The day is another big day for us. We will have an early start from the camp for 2-3 hours treks that lead us to the top of the pass and overlooking stunning views of the impressive south face of Lhotse and Lhotse Shar. You can also get an amazing view of the summit of Island or Imajatse Peaks which looks as if it could almost be even lower than our vantage point. As soon as the kitchen staffs and porters arrive at the pass, they will be lowered 150 meters to the relatively less steep ground below the pass. Similarly, loads have to be carefully lowered.  After checking every member in the group, we will slowly and carefully descend with the help of ropes and an ice axe if required. We will stop after reaching the safe side from the pass. By the early afternoon, everybody should be off the snow. Once in the safe ground away from the snow and ice area, an hour or more walk will take us to the ablation valley by the side of the Imja Glacier.  The walk will be more or less easier most of the way to the trekker's civilization at Chhukung, a temporary settlement with few teahouses and lodges. Overnight at Chhukung.
 
#@#Day 22: Trek to Tyangboche (3,867m/12684ft), 4-5 hrs
#@#The walk on this day will be easy heading downhill to a lower elevation from Chhukung all the way to Tyangboche. Tyangboche is one of the most beautiful places in the Himalayas. The first thing that comes to your eye will be the big Monastery or Gumba, then the large field with campsites and teahouses, lodges beneath the towering majestic beautiful peak Ama Dablam, Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Lhotse Shar towards the northeast, and more peaks all around you.
 
#@#Day 23: Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,283ft), 4-5 hrs
#@#We will trek down to Phungithanka, a small settlement with a couple of teahouses. The trail will lead downhill through the forested path of silver fir, blue pines, rhododendron, and a few magnolia and birch trees. After crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, we will trek onwards to the Sanasa and re-track to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay.
 
#@#Day 24: Trek to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), 6-7 hrs
#@#After a long trekking trip, we'll have a long last-day trek back to Lukla. We will trek back with enjoying the lush green scenery around and passing through the incredible mountain scenery and local Sherpa village. After your arrival at Lukla, you will have some time to stroll around the areas. The guide will re-confirm your flight ticket. You can enjoy the last celebration dinner with your crew member.
 
#@#Day 25: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
#@#After an early morning flight to Kathmandu, our guide will help you to transfer to your hotel. You may have time to relax after a long journey and take back your breath. You can rest at your hotel by ending your Himalayan trip with us.
 
#@#Day 26: Leisure at Kathmandu
#@#It's also a spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla. On this pleasant day, you may have a full day at leisure on your own. You can also extend your extra trip with us at an additional cost. You can also choose to explore the Thamel for last-day shopping. In the evening, the company will meet you for the farewell dinner.
 
#@#Day 27: Departure from Kathmandu
#@#You'll have some time for the last minute shopping for souvenirs or gifts for your family, friends, or relatives for you until your departure flight/drive or to commence any extra trips or activities you may have booked with us. If you are ready for departing, you'll be transferred to the International Airport for your departure flight to your onward destination.
We wish you a wonderful Himalayan adventure with us!

Trip Includes

Trip Cost Includes:

✅ All airport and hotel transportation by private vehicle in Kathmandu per the suggested itinerary.
✅ Deluxe twin-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
✅ Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (Alcoholic beverages are excluded)
✅ Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Lukla to Kathmandu by flight
✅ Full board meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) during the trek
✅ Seasonal fruits during the trek are provided
✅ Comfortable & clean accommodation on teahouse/lodge/tent during the trek
✅ Government Registered Trek guide (English speaking, First Aid and eco trained), Sherpa porter (one porter for two trekkers)
✅ All necessary paper works, entry fees, and permits & TIMS card
✅ Four seasonal sleeping bags, Nepal Vision Treks duffel bag,  and trekking map (sleeping bag  to be returned after trip completion)
✅ First aid exclusive medical kit bag
✅ All government and local taxes

Trip Excludes

Trip Cost Excludes:

❌ Visa fees (You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu so (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)) International airfare to and from Kathmandu
❌ Lunch and dinner apart from the trek except for welcome & fare well dinner (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled plan)
❌ Any extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary plan
❌ Travel and rescue insurance
 

Equipments

More Info:

Clothing & Packing Information
Correct Clothing & Equipment’s are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Experienced trekkers will often take only a selection of these items based on what has worked in the past. Please find the equipment list below for your personal use during your travel with us.

We are advised to consider the following equipment’s as essentials while packing for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Adjustments to the list can be managed according to our requirements, interests, duration of trip, and season of trip.  We can find variety of these gears to buy in Kathmandu. Majority of the gears which are in sale in Kathmandu are locally is much cheaper and must be tried on carefully and checked carefully for quality, but on the whole it is OK. We can find very high quality branded gears too in some famous stores in Kathmandu; mostly top notch imported gear, Mountain Hardware, The North Face, Marmot, Black Diamond climbing gear plus head torches and others, and prices are reasonable.

The hotel stores free of cost whatever you don't take trekking, and of course they have a laundry service. You might want to plan with a clean set of clothes for your return from the trek.

Who carries what?
You carry a daypack with your camera, a jacket, water and day snacks. The porters will carry everything else, so pack this in a duffel/kitbag rather than backpack. Since, luggage has weight limitation of approximately 33 pounds or 15 kg.

Important documents 
• Passport (must be valid for 6 months after trip), 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
• Photocopy of the information pages of your passport and Insurance
• Insurance – this MUST include helicopter rescue, repatriation and medical coverage. Money – US$200 to US$300 personal spending for trek and for Kathmandu depending on souvenir hunting (but don’t change money at the airport as you will get a better rate of exchange in the Thamel District of Kathmandu).
• Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines.
 

Packing List 
»Running shoes»: 1 pair for casual comfortable support shoes wears on lighter walking days.
»Hiking boots»: 1 pair of sturdy hiking boots. Sole should be flexible but still provide enough support for your feet. Boots should be very water repellent.
»Wool socks»: 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks and 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
» Gaiters»:Only for winter, optional, “low” ankle high
»T-Shirts» Polypropylene shirts (2 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves), Light and expedition weight thermal tops
»Jacket» Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover, Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket, Down vest and/or jacket and Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
»Trekking pants» Non-cotton underwear briefs, 1 pair of Hiking shorts, 1 pair of Hiking trousers, 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal), 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers and 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric
»Head wears» Bandana or head scarf, useful for dusty conditions also, Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic), Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs, Sunglasses with UV protection
»Hand wears» 1 pair of lightweight poly-liner gloves, 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves, 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)
»Sleeping Bag»: High quality with hood to at least - 10 Degree Celsius or 14 degrees F (Company provide you sleeping bag for this trek)
»Rucksack and Travel Bags» 1 medium rucksack (60-80 liters/3500-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon), 1 large duffel bag (Company provide you duffle bag for this trek), A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables, should have good shoulder padding, Small padlocks for duffel bags, large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)
»Trekking Poles»: Optional
»Water treatment tablets»: Iodine or Chloride Dioxide tablets. A small bottle or multi pack is sufficient. Taste neutralizer tablets remove iodine taste. Chloride Dioxide formulas will not discolor water
»Water Bottles» 2 Wide mouth bottles with minimum 1 Liter capacity per bottle No water bag or bladder systems; they freeze or are hard to fill.
»Pee Bottle» (Optional) but very useful
»Pee funnel for Women» (Optional) Lightweight urinary director (For minimal undressing for discreet use)
»Sunscreen» SPF 30 or better, 2 small tubes and make sure that the sunscreen is not older than 6 months. Sunscreen older than six months loses half of its SPF rating.
»Hand/foot warmers»: (Optional) recommended if you easily get cold hands and feet 1-3 pairs.
»Lip screen»: SPF 30 or better, at least 2 sticks. Not older than 6 months
»MP3 player» (Optional) Flash memory only players since hard drive players do not work at high altitude (above 13,000ft). Chargers can be used at several lodges along the way.
»Towel» Bring towel for trekking. »Toiletry bag» Include toilet paper, soap, towel, and toothpaste & brush, Wet wipes 1-2 per day and hand sanitizer: Hand moisturizer.
»Extra luggage» Please note you do not need to take all your gear with you while trekking - luggage can be safely stored at the hotel in Kathmandu and collected at the end of your trek.

First aid 
»Personal first aid Kit (small and simple)» Aspirin, Moleskin, Adhesive tape and Band-Aids.
»Drugs/medications/prescriptions» Trekker should bring Mupirocin (Bactroban) cream; excellent topical antibiotic for scrapes and cuts.
Cirprofloxin (Cipro) 500mg tablets for traveler’s diarrhea and for urinary tract infections. Loperamide (Lomotil) or Immodium for diarrhea.
Acetazolamide (Diamox) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 200mg tablets for altitude headaches.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325mg tablets for stomach sensitivity.

This above list is only a guideline for you. While you are required to bring everything on this list, there are numerous options, brands.

Physical Condition and requirement

Useful info

Useful Information for the package:

Passport and Visa Requirements
All foreigners require a visa for entry into Nepal (except Indian nationals). It is your responsibility to obtain an entry visa. You can get it from a Nepalese embassy overseas or on arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal. Most people will obtain their visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. You will need two passport photos and the following fees in US Dollar cash (this is payable in any major currency but NOT traveler's cheque) dependent upon the duration of the multiple entry visas:

  1. Multiple entries 15 days US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
  2. Multiple entries 30 days US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
  3. Multiple entries 90 days US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Travel Insurance: 
Travel Insurance is mandatory for booking any of Himalayas Nepal Vision’s Adventure packages. Trekking in the Himalayas is full of fun and adventure but you have to be prepared for risk management. While you are in High Altitude region, there are higher risks of difficulties. You may suffer from various health problems, injuries, and illnesses. Even High altitude sickness can tear up your perfect itinerary. And that’s where travel insurance can save you from distress or at least from some of the costs, depending on the policy you buy. For your adventure, Travel insurance is a safety net if things go wrong. At times, even a helicopter may be needed along with a rescue team, for ground evacuation, so, every traveler must have rescue insurance covered against personal accidents, medical expenses, emergency air ambulance/helicopter rescue service accidents, and personal liability. Start your trip with all the necessary health & traveling insurance for your safety.

Having good travel insurance will not only guarantee you peace of mind while you travel with us but also provide you with complete cover for anything things that may go wrong.

Trip Meal Plan 
Eating is a big part of traveling. With Nepal Vision, you will experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in the Mountains. Nepal Vision will provide Traveling Mountains meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) that crews require on the trail. On this trip, you can enjoy both traditional Nepalese three-time served as Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), as well as a variety of different food items, such as vegetables, noodles, potatoes cuisine served and soup along with some, Nepali versions of western food such as pizza, pasta, and French fries. Breakfast and dinner will be served from the teahouse or lodge menu where we will spend the night. Lunch will be eaten at one of the trailside restaurants. A welcome dinner, a farewell dinner, and breakfasts will be served during our stay in Kathmandu.

When an individual is allergic to some food products, requires a special diet, or has specific religious food needs, we will arrange it as per your requirements on request. Also, the crew will carry fresh, fruit supplies at a time along the trail. Our guides will carefully be checked for the quality and quantity of the food in every teahouse. Explicit cooking directions are indicated on each food for your convenience.

Trip Accommodation 
During this trip, we will spend four nights in Kathmandu at four-star standard hotels. We will spend the nights at standard mountain teahouses. A Tea House is a combination of a guesthouse, restaurant, and social hang-out. Private rooms are available in most tea houses. The lodges are fairly basic. The rooms are spare with twin beds and very little additional furniture. Blankets are generally provided. Most bathrooms are shared and toilets are the western version. Most of the Teahouses have running water facilities while some of them may also have hot water available for bathing at an additional cost. It is advisable to carry wet wipes as an alternative.

There is a large dining room more like the lounge, warmed by an iron cylinder, fitted with a chimney duct, in which a log fire is lit. Most teahouses now also have electricity for charging small appliances, mobile phones, and cameras. Some might charge a small amount for this.

Best time to visit Nepal 
Nepal is for all seasons! But because of the huge range in altitude and landscape, the climate of Nepal differs significantly throughout the country. The most recommended seasons for trekking are autumn (Sept, Oct, Nov) and spring (March, April, and May). In these seasons you will be rewarded with good weather, sunny and warm with clear skies and outstanding views. During monsoons (June, July, Aug) although there will be no problem with trekking, the issue could be less visibility and rain. For the student of botanicals, a monsoon is a blessing as the higher valleys, mountains, and meadows blossom with flowers and abundant vegetation. You can also trek in winter (Dec, Jan, and Feb). Only, the issue will be cold weather with snowfall at higher elevations.

The trekking routes are filled with trekkers during spring and autumn but during monsoon and winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather the best of nature. However, because of the effects of global warming, the climate is changing worldwide and there could always be the possibility of exceptions in these weather patterns. There could be a hoax of bad weather and sometimes even in adverse months during the best seasons too. 

Leader(s) & Staff 
The Trek Leader of your group has a role to ensure all aspects of the trip run smoothly. Our guides are intimately familiar with all local castes and customs along the trails and will share with you many cultural insights that are not covered in any guidebook. You will have a good chance to learn Nepali phrases, cultural things, and more on your trekking. Nepal Vision trained its guide/trekking staff on the following course:

  • Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  • Trekking Guide Training
  • Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet
  • English Language
  • Conservation and Biodiversity
  • Rock Climbing, Ice Climbing, and Mountaineering (For expedition leaders)

Altitude Information
What is Altitude? 
Altitude is known as elevation, and it is often used to refer to the height above sea level. Altitude is related to air pressure. Trekkers and mountaineers can measure their altitude by measuring the air pressure around them. As the altitude rises, air pressure drops. In other words, if the indicated altitude is high, the air pressure becomes low. The human body reacts to high altitudes. Decreased air pressure means that less oxygen is available for breathing. One normal effect of altitude is shortness of breath since the lungs have to work harder to deliver oxygen to the bloodstream. It can take days and even weeks for a body to adjust to high altitude and low air pressure. To prevent severe altitude sickness, mountaineers bring supplemental (extra) supplies of oxygen and limit their time in the 'high elevation'.

Acclimatization 
We are experts at operating adventure trips at high-altitude destinations. Every trip we run has a realistic acclimatization program. Our treks are designed to allow gradual height gain, spread over several days. There is no way of predicting who will suffer from altitude but, for the vast majority of people, a slow ascent to height will produce minimal effects. Acclimatizing takes time and there are no safe shortcuts. All trips to altitudes over 3,000 meters carry medicines essential to the treatment of altitude illness, and our leaders are trained to administer them and to know the symptoms.

Symptoms & signs of Acute Mountain Sickness

  • Headache (typically throbbing, often worse for bending over or lying down), Additionally one or more of the following symptoms might be seen:
  • Tiredness, weakness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Loss of appetite, nausea (or vomiting)
  • Insomnia, disturbed sleep
  • Dizziness, fatigue, lethargy, heavy legs

Treatment 
The only cure for mountain sickness is either acclimatization or descent to a lower altitude as soon as possible. In the presence of these symptoms, medical attention must be sought immediately in conjunction with a descent to the lowest possible height.

  • Rest (avoid even the slightest exertion if this is possible) at the same (or lower) altitude until the symptoms clear (up to 4 days)
  • Drink enough to keep your urine pale and plentiful
  • Use ibuprofen or paracetamol for headache
  • Consider Diamox™ (125 to 250 mg 12-hourly) for 3 days, or for the rest of the time at altitude if symptoms return
  • Consider Stemeti™l (or other anti-vomiting medication) for persistent nausea/vomiting
  • If AMS symptoms are severe, give oxygen (1 to 2 L/min) OR use a pressure bag until symptoms clear
  • Check the victim regularly for signs of HAPE and HACE, especially during the night
  • Descend far enough to clear symptoms (at least 500m/1640ft) if symptoms of AMS do not improve or get worse

What do we do if we are affected by Altitude Sickness? 
Sometimes trekkers might suffer from ailments like altitude sickness, heart problems, dysentery, or fracture while trekking in the Himalayas. While there are clinics at some places for minor ailments, major hospitals are days away from most of the trekking trails. So, a client’s life could be at risk if he/she is not rescued immediately. If you find yourself ill or injured in the mountains, Nepal Vision Treks will arrange rescue and evacuation services for our clients.

Helicopter rescue services will rarely come to your aid without you either making a cash deposit or a promise in Kathmandu. While you are traveling with us, we can become the guarantor for the helicopter operators, make the initial payments, and send a helicopter for your rescue. We claim the amount later from you or your insurance. Please make sure you have travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter services for rescue to avail of this service.

Our expert and trained guides are very experienced in dealing with the effects of higher altitudes. They are equipped with necessary first-aid medical supplies and will assist with basic first-aid treatment. The safety of our clients is taken very seriously and conducted the operation swiftly and didn’t panic for a second to come up with a proper operation.  

Vaccination: 
Vaccination is the most important thing to consider while traveling to prevent possible diseases. For traveling to Nepal, we recommend you take vaccines against Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, etc. However, it is not a must to have but it is recommended. You should check up with your doctor before the departure of your trip. Your doctor will have access to the most up-to-date information on the required vaccinations for the country you will be visiting.

Extra Expenses Information
You are responsible for your expenses, a cold beverage, mineral water, extra meals, and drinks (more than 3 meals a day), and other services which are not mentioned in our service Includes column. So you should be planning to bring at least US$20 to US$30 per day for these expenses. It is not necessary to obtain local money before departure. Nepal has modern banking facilities so you can use ATMS in Kathmandu where you can easily use your credit card, Debit card, Master card, Visa card, etc. to withdraw local currency.

COVID Precautions
Fully vaccinated travelers don't require a pre-departure PCR test for COVID-19 to enter Nepal. You must bring the vaccination certificate completed at least 14 days prior to arrival at the Airport. In case you are not fully vaccinated or have not completed a full dose of vaccination at least 14 days prior to your arrival in Nepal, you have to bring a COVID-19 test report which can be either RT-PCR, Gene Experr, True NAAT, or WHO accredited test that shows the negative result done within the last 72 hours of boarding from the first airport. In case you are entering through the land border, you will need to do the test within 72 hours before entry. The provision will not be accepted for children below 5 years.

Things to Consider
There are a few important things you need to know before traveling to Nepal so that you can have a smooth journey to Nepal.

  • Be prepared for major emergencies. Nepal experiences natural calamities like Earthquakes, Landslides, floods, and several others. Carrying an emergency kit with necessary first aid supplies and bottled water will be a great help. 
  • Take care while you photograph as it's illegal to photograph army barracks, checkpoints, many temples, and many other areas. 
  • Don't use any illegal drugs. The government of Nepal might take this as a severe charge and also might ask for a sum of penalties for drug offenses.
  • Check with your intended tour provider despite Nepal issuing trekking and mountaineering permits. 
  • Exchange foreign currencies for NPR which will be available at banks or any exchange bureaus. Those can be found in major centers. Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards but it's better to carry some fleece cash. Make sure you carry enough cash to cover your needs because not all areas have ATMs. 
  • Use the registered taxis. Some taxi drivers may take ask for higher amounts by fooling novice travelers, so make sure you consider checking for prices. 

FAQ

Frequently asked questions:

#@#How difficult are Makalu, West Col, and Sherpani Col treks?
#@#The Makalu West Col trek takes you to Makalu which is then followed by the West Col and Sherpani passes trek. It is considered one of the most challenging treks, as it is the fifth-highest mountain in Nepal.

#@#What is the height of Makalu Mountain?
#@#Mt Makalu is one of the eight-thousanders in Nepal. It has a height of 8,485m  from sea level. It first ascended on May 19, 1955.

#@#How long is the Makalu, West Col, and Sherpani Trek?
#@#The Makalu Trek followed by West Col and Sherpani Trek elongates to 30 long days.  You will trek to the high mountain which then is followed by the West and Sherpani Col so the long trek is completed after a long time.

#@#Can we see Everest during the Makalu, West Col & Sherpani Col Trek?
#@#With the beautiful view of Mount Makalu itself, you can enjoy the serene view of many other mountains like Mt Everest, Mt Lhotse,  Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Kumbhakarna, and others.

#@#Is Makalu hard to climb?
#@#Being the eighth thousand, Makalu is hard to climb.  It is also one of the hard and technical mountains, which has its trails also comparatively difficult, hence, it is hard to climb.

#@#What is the height of Mt. Makalu?
#@#Mt. Makalu is one of the eight-thousanders in Nepal with an altitude of 8,485m from the sea level. It was first ascended on May 19, 1955.


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