Annapurna Community Trek

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 and 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 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 light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal. We also recommend stair climbs, walking up- and downhill as much as possible.

In addition to your physical training, it’s 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, homestays and lodges. You’ll be in a hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Homestays and lodges are basic but comfortable: single beds, twin share and shared bathrooms. Be sure to bring your thermals, fleece, beanie, gloves and sleeping bag to stay warm during the night.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin share and multi share where necessary. When in twin share, you will be paired with a teammate(s) of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. 

A single supplement is available on request and subject to availability.

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, 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 may be available at lodges and homestays and may incur a small charge (approx. Rs 200 per shower). Some may only have cold showers.

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 lodges may 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.

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 teahouses 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. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Why do I need to pay a registration fee? 

When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.

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 travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our international adventures. 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 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.

What weather can I expect?

The weather in Kathmandu is very pleasant, ranging from 20-28°C during the day most of the year. The lower regions of Annapurna have an average daytime temperature of 10-20°C, dropping at night to about 5-8°C. As you reach higher altitudes, temperatures can 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.