How challenging is this adventure?

The Annapurna trek is ranked 3.5/5. While you don't have to be an avid backpacker, this is a physical adventure and the better prepared you are the more you will enjoy it. The adventure involves trekking in remote areas for up to eight hours a day (possibly more, subject to weather conditions and altitude). This adventure will exceed 3,000 metres above sea level, in your packing there will be suggestions on medication to bring to help with altitude sickness. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again comfortably the following day. There are a number of stairs on this adventure, particularly the first and last day where you'll be going up or down stairs for 3-5 hours. Trekking poles are highly recommended. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

The LBW Trust has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $50 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and The LBW Trust, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP or a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on the trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day's hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain with stairs where possible for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal. We highly recommend stair climbs (up and down) and walking up and downhill as much as possible.

In addition to your physical training, it’s very important to be mentally prepared for the challenge. You might encounter setbacks and difficult periods during the trek, but remind yourself that many people have achieved this feat before you, and you can do it too. Maintain a positive attitude, and remember your guide will be there to encourage and inspire you all the way!

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3-star hotels and teahouses. You’ll be in a hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Accommodation while trekking will be in local teahouses/ community lodging which are basic but comfortable: single beds, twin share, shared bathrooms. Be sure to bring your thermals, fleece, beanie, gloves and sleeping bag to stay warm during the night, particularly at high altitude. 

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share and multi share where necessary. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms can be requested at an additional cost (subject to availability). Please note, on this adventure single rooms are only available at the hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What are the toilets like? 

While trekking and at most teahouses, toilets are likely to be basic squat-style with no toilet paper provided. When using toilet paper, it should not be flushed and instead be placed in the bins provided or in a recyclable brown paper bag or zip-lock bag to be disposed of later. In hotels and most restaurants, toilets are of western standard.

Are showers available? 

Yes, there are showers available at the hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Hot showers are available at most teahouses for a small charge (approx. Rs 200 per shower). Some teahouses only have cold showers. Do not expect a western shower in the local communities. 

What is the food like? 

You can expect a selection of cooked and continental breakfast options each day. During the trek, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea will be served at local teahouses on the trail. Daal bhaat power, 24 hour! This delicious local dish is also what the crew will be eating at lunch, and they know what's good. It's the best source of energy and will keep you going for the rest of the day. But don't worry, there will be other options to choose from, too. Dinners include a variety of cooked foods such as fried rice or noodles, pizza, momos, vegetables and more daal bhaat, and some other western dishes.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. 

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. 

Mobile phone reception will be limited during the trek, but generally fine in Pokhara and Kathmandu. There will be free Wi-Fi available at the hotels, and some teahouses will offer it for a small fee. 

Will I have access to electricity?

Nepal uses two round or three round pin power plugs (outlet types C, D and M), 220V/50Hz. 

Power outages are a reality of life in Kathmandu. Most hotels post a schedule of planned electricity cuts, which can last up to 16 hours a day, however, they generally have generators which they use during these outages.

While trekking, you will have less access to electricity and may incur a small fee to charge your devices. We recommend a power bank (portable charger), which you can charge before embarking on the trek.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for The LBW Trust are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

• Transfers in private vehicle as per itinerary
• Accommodation in 3-star hotels and basic lodges based on twin share
• Meals as per itinerary
• Water on trekking days
• Local English-speaking guide(s)
• Porters (1x porter for every 2x passengers)
• National Park fees

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include: 

• Airfares
• Airport transfers
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Visa
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please keep in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. 

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow Rs 4,000 (approximately AU$50) per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs, gifts, drinks and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping in Nepal is expected, though not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate. Your Team Leader will give you advice on customary tipping amounts and coordinate a tipping kitty to assist you and the team with the process. Usually around Rs 12,000 (approx. AUD$150) per person for the entire adventure.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

• Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
• Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.
• Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Please contact us and we can assist with writing you an insurance letter to claim your refund.

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Nepal?

Australian and New Zealand passport holders require a visa for entry into Nepal. We advise you to obtain your visa prior to departing Australia or New Zealand. For further information, please contact the relevant consulate. Passports are required to be valid for at least six months after the date you return to your home country. You must have a valid passport before you can apply for a visa.

Is it safe to travel to Nepal?

While in Nepal, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities. When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe. These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.

Can I drink the water in Nepal?

Do not drink the tap water. Tap water is safe to drink only after it is boiled. Purified bottled water is available everywhere in major cities and at select teahouses along the trail, and is generally quite cheap. Before you purchase a bottle of water, check that the seal on the cap is not broken. Your guide will provide you with purification tablets at the start of the trek, which will be used throughout. 

What weather can I expect?

The weather in Kathmandu is warm, ranging from 20-28°C during the day most of the year. The lower regions of Annapurna have an average daytime temperature of 15-25°C, dropping at night to about 5-8°C, but can get very hot. As you reach higher altitudes, temperatures will drop below freezing in the evening, night and early mornings. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Nepal?

Nepalese rupees (Rs) are not available for exchange in other countries. Australian dollars (AUD) and New Zealand (NZD) can be easily exchanged in Kathmandu on arrival, and credit cards are accepted in most major hotels. It is best you carry local currency in small denominations with you while on the trek.

Access to ATMs is limited and only available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, so we advise that you withdraw sufficient funds for the duration of the trek prior to departing the city. 

Do I require any vaccinations to travel to Nepal? 

Approximately two months prior to departure, you should visit your GP to begin your vaccinations. The most common vaccinations for Nepal include:

• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus

Cholera is considered a medium risk in Nepal. Please consult your GP regarding protection against this disease.

Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.

An Inspired Adventure with LBW Trust offers the following benefits:

• Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
• Long-term partnership with LBW Trust and increased community engagement
• Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
• Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
• Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
• Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
• Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
• Great networking opportunities

Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack HERE.